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The Guardians’ potential loss of Austin Hedges could linger throughout 2027 season

While Austin Hedges struggled at the plate for the Guardians, he was a key part of turning around their culture.

By Henry Palattella · Away Back Gone

Published: Tuesday, 27 October 2026 at 12:19 PM

Key Things to Know

Away Back Gone argues losing free agent Austin Hedges could significantly hurt the Cleveland Guardians' clubhouse culture in 2027.
Manager Stephen Vogt spoke of Hedges in the past tense, praising his three years of clubhouse leadership.
Hedges enters free agency following a career-best 2026 season featuring a .702 OPS, six home runs, and 25 RBIs.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Writer Henry Palattella argues that the Cleveland Guardians face a significant clubhouse loss if free-agent catcher Austin Hedges signs elsewhere for the 2027 season. Unlike last year, Hedges has not yet re-signed, and recent comments by manager Stephen Vogt suggested Hedges may not return after a career-best 2026 campaign.

Palattella notes that Hedges posted a career-best .702 OPS in 76 games, potentially pricing him out of Cleveland. Meanwhile, the Guardians have internal catching depth behind Patrick Bailey, including prospects Cooper Ingle and Kody Huff, to fill the backup role.

Read the full article on Away Back Gone

The Guardians’ potential loss of Austin Hedges could linger throughout 2027 season

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