In the world of baseball, the winds of change are always blowing, and Rhys Hoskins’ journey is a testament to that. After what seemed like a final curtain call with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2024, Hoskins is embarking on a new chapter with the Cleveland Guardians. His recent signing to a minor league contract could see him pocket $1.5 million if he makes the Major League roster-a fresh start that both he and the Guardians hope will reignite his career.
Reflecting on his time with the Brewers, it was a season of mixed fortunes. Despite picking up his $18 million player option for 2024, the Brewers found themselves unable to trade him, leaving Hoskins as their go-to first baseman.
But when a sprained wrist sidelined him, it opened the door for Andrew Vaughn, a former top draft pick who had been struggling to find his rhythm with the Chicago White Sox. Vaughn seized the opportunity, winning over Brewers fans with his revitalized swing.
As the 2025 season wrapped up, the Brewers made the decision to decline Hoskins’ club option, setting him adrift in free agency. It wasn’t until recently that the Guardians saw potential in the seasoned first baseman, offering him a chance to prove himself once more.
Hoskins’ career has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. Missing the entire 2023 season with the Phillies due to a torn ACL was a significant setback.
During his stint with the Brewers, he posted a .223/.314/.418 slash line, hitting 38 home runs and driving in 125 runs over 221 games. While these numbers reflect a solid contribution, they fell short of the impressive .242/.353/.492 he achieved over six seasons with the Phillies.
Now, with the Guardians, Hoskins has a shot at redemption. If he can tap into the form that once made him a standout in Philadelphia, he could become a valuable asset for Cleveland. It’s a new beginning for Hoskins, and baseball fans will be watching closely to see if he can once again capture the magic that made him a force to be reckoned with.