The Cleveland Guardians have signed veteran first baseman Rhys Hoskins to a minor league contract, pending a physical, as the 32-year-old aims to revive his major league career. This Rhys Hoskins Cleveland signing offers the Guardians a chance to add a powerful right-handed bat while providing Hoskins an opportunity to compete for a roster spot in spring training.
Veteran Presence Adds Depth to Cleveland’s Lineup
Hoskins was present with the team on Sunday in Goodyear, Arizona, where Guardians manager Stephen Vogt welcomed the addition. Vogt highlighted the value Hoskins brings as a right-handed hitter who can fill roles at first base and designated hitter, areas where Cleveland currently lacks depth.
“He’s got a chance to come into camp, make an impact and possibly make the team,” Vogt told Cleveland.com. “He’s a right-handed bat who can play first base and DH. Obviously, we don’t have a lot of right-handed bats in camp.”
– Stephen Vogt, Cleveland Guardians manager
First Base Battle Shapes Up as Key Spring Training Focus
Rhys Hoskins faces competition from two left-handed hitters within the Guardians system: Kyle Manzardo and CJ Kayfus. This sets up a compelling contest for playing time at first base, with Hoskins offering major league experience and power potential.
Hoskins’ recent seasons have been challenging; during his stint with the Milwaukee Brewers, he struggled at the plate, hitting just .237 with 12 home runs in 279 at-bats in 2025. The year prior was also difficult, as he recorded a .214 average with 26 homers and 82 RBIs. Prior to that, he was a significant offensive contributor for six seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies, known for his power hitting before injuries and inconsistency impacted his performance.
Following his time with Milwaukee, the Brewers declined his $18 million contract option, opting instead to pay a $4 million buyout that ended his two-year, $34 million deal, signaling dissatisfaction with his output.
Flexible Contract Terms Offer Mutual Benefits
The terms of Hoskins’ contract with Cleveland include a potential $1.5 million salary if he earns a spot on the Opening Day roster, according to MLB.com. This arrangement allows the Guardians to take a low-risk approach while giving Hoskins significant motivation to perform strongly during spring training.
This signing aligns with Cleveland’s strategy of uncovering value in players overlooked elsewhere. Hoskins’ past success with Philadelphia suggests he still has the tools to contribute if he can regain his form. At 32 years old, this opportunity may represent his last real chance to establish his worth at the major league level, proving that his recent struggles were temporary setbacks rather than irreversible declines.
The Guardians’ approach means that if Hoskins returns to effective play, they gain a valuable power hitter. If he falls short, the team faces minimal financial loss and can move in a different direction easily. Spring training will be the critical test for both Hoskins and Cleveland, as the veteran attempts to extend his major league tenure amid cautious optimism.
