Overview
- Jon Heyman reports an agreement for 2026 worth $4 million plus $500,000 in incentives, which the club has not confirmed.
- Hedges, 33, would return for a sixth season in Cleveland as a veteran backup catcher and respected clubhouse presence.
- Bo Naylor is expected to handle most catching duties in 2026, with Hedges reinforcing depth as David Fry works back from injury.
- Despite hitting .161 in 2025, Hedges ranked among the top defensive catchers, including a 43% caught-stealing rate and standout framing metrics.
- Commentary notes the move as a debatable use of limited payroll even as the team credits Hedges for leadership during its midseason turnaround.