The Cleveland Guardians aren't playing in the postseason this year, but there still has been one player fans have been able to follow along in the playoffs. Austin Hedges signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates last season and was traded to the Texas Rangers at the deadline.
Texas ended up defeating the Houston Astros in Game Seven of the ALCS. Now the Rangers, along with Hedges, are headed to the 2023 World Series to take on either the Philadelphia Phillies or Arizona Diamondbacks. (They play Game Seven of the NLCS on Tuesday night.)
Jonah Heim is the Rangers' primary catcher, so Hedges hasn't gotten a ton of playing time in the playoffs. In fact, he's yet to get an at-bat in the postseason but is still a great dugout guy to have on the roster.
Hedges has never been known for his offensive production but is one of the best defensive catchers in baseball. He ranked in the 90th percentile in outs above average and 98th percentile in framing, per Baseball Savant.
Guardians fans learned early in 2023 that this defense was more important than they may have initially thought.
Hedges was traded to Cleveland from the San Diego Padres as a part of the Mike Clevinger deal in the middle of a chaotic 2020 season. He spent two and a half seasons catching Indians/Guardians pitchers until the team decided to head in a different direction following the 2022 season.
The front office wanted a more offensive-minded catcher and signed Mike Zunino to a one-year deal. He was designated for assignment in June.
Still, Hedges remains a fan favorite in Cleveland. He was a lovable and outgoing figure who embraced the city and its fanbase during his time in Ohio. There will definitely be a cluster of Guardians fans who will be cheering for Hedges to win a ring in the 2023 World Series.
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