Carlos Santana continues to be a significant presence for the Cleveland Guardians in his sixteenth major league season, holding the position of first baseman. His career with the Guardians began in 2010, spanning an initial eight years before exploring various teams. After a second tenure between 2019 and 2020, Santana returned once again this offseason with a one-year, $12 million deal.
Transition and Achievements Strengthen Santana’s Role
Originally starting as a catcher, Santana has fully transitioned to first base, which has allowed him to prolong his career while anchoring the corner infield for Cleveland. During his second stint, he earned his first All-Star selection in 2019 and received a Silver Slugger Award, reflecting his offensive contributions. Now at age 39, Santana remains a key figure both on the field and within the clubhouse.
Recent Performance and Franchise Milestone
In the current 2025 season, Santana continues to perform effectively as a hitter and a veteran leader. In Friday’s game against the Chicago White Sox, he hit a pivotal sixth-inning home run that propelled him to fifth place on the Cleveland Guardians’ all-time home run list. This achievement highlights his lasting power and consistent impact during his years with the franchise.
Through 85 games this year, Santana has recorded 11 home runs, 40 RBIs, and holds a batting average of .230 with a .679 OPS, contributing crucial offense amid a challenging season.
Guardians’ Outlook and Santana’s Role Moving Forward
Currently, the Guardians hold a 43–48 record, placing them five games behind the third American League wild-card spot as the All-Star break nears. After reaching the ALCS just last year, Cleveland is counting on Carlos Santana’s experience and reliable hitting to spark a strong second-half turnaround and re-enter postseason contention.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Carlos Santana considered a good guitarist?
A. In 2023, Rolling Stone ranked him as the 11th best guitarist ever.
Q. Did Eric Clapton ever play with Carlos Santana?
A. On his 1999 album, “Supernatural,” Carlos Santana featured Eric Clapton on a song titled “The Calling.” Santana has frequently suggested he would like to collaborate further, as mentioned in a recent American Songwriter interview.
Q. Is Carlos Santana a good guitarist?
A. Carlos Santana, an important and remarkable guitarist for the last 50 years, is known for his memorable Woodstock performance, exceptional work in the 70s, and his “Smooth” comeback.