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Rhys Hoskins Signs Minor League Deal with Guardians
Veteran first baseman's signing shakes up right-handed hitter market
Feb. 22, 2026 at 5:18pm
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On Sunday, veteran first baseman Rhys Hoskins signed a minor league deal with the Cleveland Guardians, shaking up the remaining market for right-handed hitters in free agency. Hoskins struggled in his two seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers, hitting just .237 in 2025 and losing his starting job at first base.
Why it matters
Hoskins' signing, while not a major move, does impact the remaining options for teams looking to add right-handed power bats to their rosters. With several other notable free agent outfielders still available, Hoskins' deal could spur more activity in the right-handed hitter market before the start of the 2026 season.
The details
Hoskins, 33, is coming off a disappointing stint with the Brewers where he lost his starting job at first base to Andrew Vaughn. He hit just .237 in 2025 after batting .256 the previous season. Despite his struggles, Hoskins is still seen as a potential right-handed power threat off the bench or in a platoon role. The Guardians are hoping he can bounce back and provide some pop to their lineup.
- Hoskins signed his minor league deal with the Guardians on Sunday, February 22, 2026.
- The 2026 MLB season is set to begin in early April.
The players
Rhys Hoskins
A 33-year-old veteran first baseman who signed a minor league deal with the Cleveland Guardians after struggling the past two seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers.
Andrew Vaughn
The Brewers' starting first baseman, who took over the job from Hoskins in 2025.
Cleveland Guardians
The MLB team that signed Hoskins to a minor league deal, hoping he can provide right-handed power off the bench or in a platoon role.
What’s next
It remains to be seen if Hoskins can earn a spot on the Guardians' major league roster out of spring training. If he performs well, he could provide a right-handed power boost to their lineup. Other free agent outfielders like Tommy Pham, Randal Grichuk, Starling Marte, and Hunter Renfroe are also still available and could sign with teams before Opening Day.
The takeaway
Hoskins' signing with the Guardians, while a minor move, highlights the thin market for right-handed power hitters this offseason. Teams in need of that type of production will have to get creative in finding solutions, whether through free agency or trades, as the 2026 season approaches.
