Guardians Sign Rhys Hoskins to Minor League Deal

The Cleveland Guardians have signed first baseman Rhys Hoskins to a minor league deal, with a $1.5 million base salary if he makes the major league roster. Hoskins was spotted in the Guardians’ clubhouse at spring training in Arizona on February 22, 2026, with gear already in his name, and the signing was reported pending physical clearance.

Background

Hoskins, 32, spent the past two seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers after six years with the Philadelphia Phillies. He missed the 2023 season with a torn ACL and in 2025 hit .237 with 12 home runs and 43 RBIs in 90 games, losing the starting first-base job. Over his eight-year MLB career he has a .238 average with 186 home runs and 530 RBIs. The deal is a low-risk move for Cleveland to add right-handed power and depth at first.

Roster fit

The Guardians will have Hoskins compete with Kyle Manzardo for time at first base as they push for a third consecutive playoff appearance. The minor league contract keeps roster flexibility; if Hoskins earns a spot out of camp, he’ll get the $1.5M base.

What It Means for AthX

Hoskins’ AthX value will reflect whether he makes the roster and how much playing time he gets. Dynamic pricing will factor in plate appearances and production; Manzardo’s share price may see pressure if Hoskins wins significant at-bats. Until he’s on the active roster, treat Hoskins as a bench/platoon option until we see lineup usage. Browse the marketplace to see Guardians and all MLB player values on AthX. *Sources: Sports Illustrated/Fastball – Rhys Hoskins deal with Guardians shakes up right-handed hitter market; ClutchPoints – Guardians news: Rhys Hoskins signing with Cleveland at spring training; Sporting News – Guardians seemingly set to sign former Phillies 34-homer slugger; KMJ – Report: Guardians signing 1B Rhys Hoskins to minor league deal. Fact-checked February 22, 2026.*