Cleveland, Ohio — Josh Naylor’s tenure with Cleveland was distinguished by incredible difficulties, tremendous growth, and raw emotion on the field. The All-Star slugger expressed “immense gratitude” after his trade last week.
Naylor posted a lengthy farewell letter on Instagram Friday to Guardians fans, teammates, and coaches as he officially began the new chapter of his baseball career with the Diamondbacks. Naylor, who suffered a severe ankle injury in 2021 after joining Cleveland at the 2020 trade deadline, established himself as one of the most feared and passionate hitters in the American League, finishing with a.264 batting average, a.450 slugging percentage, and 307 RBI in 486 games.
“Thinking about the past four (plus) seasons with the Guardians, I’m filled with immense gratitude,” the actress added. “From the first day I stepped onto the field, to the countless moments of growth, challenges, and triumphs, this organization has played an important part in shaping who I am, both as a player and as a person.”
Naylor praised Cleveland supporters for their “unwavering support” and for making him happy to represent the city.
“Your energy and passion have always pushed me to give my best,” Naylor said. “And for that, I am forever thankful.”
Naylor praised his teammates for challenging him and guiding him along the process.
“The bonds we’ve formed, the lessons I’ve learned, and the memories we’ve created together will always hold a special place in my heart,” he said. Naylor thanked his brother, Bo, for playing beside him over the last three seasons.
“It’s a memory I will cherish forever, and I will always be thankful for the moments we’ve shared both as brothers and as teammates,” he said. The brothers made big league history as the first siblings to blast multiple home runs in the same inning for the same team. They did this on July 14, 2023, versus Texas.
Naylor, who was acquired by Arizona on December 21 in exchange for a competitive balance round B draft pick and right-hander Slade Ciccone, expressed his excitement about his next steps with the Diamondbacks.
“I’m ready to bring my passion, energy, hard work and winning mindset to the field every day,” wrote the player. “I look forward to the journey ahead and can’t wait to get started.”
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