4 World Series participants the Cleveland Guardians should consider in free agency

4. Anthony Rizzo - New York Yankees First Baseman

The mere mention of this idea is sure to elicit some strong reactions, but once the collective expletive that is sure to be common among the fanbase has passed, it will become clear why the Cleveland Guardians should have Anthony Rizzo on their radar. Sure, Rizzo has been on the other end of some heartbreaking moments in Cleveland baseball history, but that should not be a dealbreaker when it comes to constructing a winning ballclub. Teams must set that stuff aside as long as it can help get them closer to achieving their ultimate goal.

The Guardians have found themselves at a crucial juncture in regard to one position on their roster, first base. Cleveland has Josh Naylor and Kyle Manzardo, but recent rumors have suggested that the Guardians could trade Naylor as he is entering his final arbitration-eligible year. This would leave Manzardo as the only real first baseman on the roster if Naylor was dealt and that is not exactly a comfortable situation to be in.

Even though Rizzo is 35 years old and the past two seasons have been a bit of a struggle, having someone with his experience for Manzardo to lean on and help him get used to being a lineup regular. And of course, there is the benefit of having Rizzo's bat in the lineup which can still be useful, even if it is not on a regular basis for much longer.