Guardians Make Carlos Santana Announcement During White Sox Game originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Carlos Santana is playing in his sixteenth major-league season as the Cleveland Guardians’ first baseman.
Santana made his debut with Cleveland in 2010 and spent the first eight years of his career there before embarking on several stops around the league. He returned for a second stint from 2019–2020 and then rejoined the Guardians for a third time on a one-year, $12 million contract this past offseason.
Originally a catcher, the 39-year-old veteran has transitioned full time to first base, allowing him to extend his career while providing stability at the corner infield spot. During his second Cleveland tenure, Santana earned his first All-Star selection in 2019 and captured a Silver Slugger Award, highlighting his offensive impact behind the plate.
In 2025, Santana has continued to contribute as a productive hitter and a respected clubhouse leader.
During Friday’s game against the Chicago White Sox, he belted a sixth-inning homer that moved him into sole possession of fifth place on the franchise’s all-time home run leaderboard—a testament to his power and longevity in Cleveland.
Carlos taking a page out of Hosey’s playbook as he moves up the franchise leaderboard.#GuardsBallpic.twitter.com/nB73Qwkd1l
— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) July 11, 2025
Through 85 games this season, Santana has tallied 11 home runs and 40 RBIs while batting .230 with a .679 OPS.
At 43–48, the Guardians are coming off a disappointing first half and sit five games back of the third American League wild-card spot with the All-Star break approaching. Just one year removed from an ALCS appearance, Cleveland will rely on Santana’s experience and steady bat to help ignite a second-half push and return to postseason contention.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 11, 2025, where it first appeared.