The Cleveland Guardians are being linked to free-agent first baseman Ty France as a sensible offseason option by Joey Mistretta of ClutchPoints.

France, 32, posted a career-best 2026 season with the San Diego Padres. He hit .295 with a .363 on-base percentage and .502 slugging percentage.

That line produced an .865 OPS, 21 home runs and 24 doubles in 133 games. He also drove in 72 runs.

The right-handed hitter recorded an .869 OPS against right-handers and an .853 OPS against left-handers. Those marks mean he would not require a platoon in Cleveland.

France spent most of his time at first base but can also play second and third. He is a former All-Star and a 2025 Gold Glove winner.

Cleveland began 2026 with a platoon of Rhys Hoskins and Kyle Manzardo at first base. Manzardo was sent to Triple-A after struggling, while Hoskins landed on the injured list.

The Guardians acquired Nathaniel Lowe at the trade deadline. First base remained a position of uncertainty for much of the year.

The Guardians finished 85-77 and won the American League Central. Their offense ranked near the bottom of the majors with a team OPS around .696.

Hoskins batted .179 with a .682 OPS in limited action. Manzardo hit .215 with a .684 OPS.

Lowe produced better numbers after the trade but still left the position open heading into free agency. Both Hoskins and Lowe are now free agents.

One of Cleveland’s top prospects, Ralphy Velazquez, is a first baseman nearly ready for the majors. He has also played catcher and outfield in the minors.

There is no guarantee Velazquez opens 2027 on the big-league roster. France could provide a bridge or share time at first base and designated hitter.

The Guardians are not expected to spend heavily in free agency. France is viewed as a more affordable option than premium free-agent bats.

MLB Trade Rumors has projected a two-year, $32 million contract for France. Multiple teams have already shown interest, and a deal could come together quickly.

France is open to hearing from all clubs. He previously signed late in recent offseasons but faces a potential lockout after Dec. 1.

Adding France would address first-base uncertainty while the Guardians also pursue pitching depth. Offensive improvement remains a parallel priority.

Cleveland has won the AL Central in three consecutive seasons. Stabilizing first base with a proven right-handed bat could help sustain that run.

France’s versatility and balanced splits fit the Guardians’ preference for flexible, cost-controlled contributors. The club has been linked to him in prior offseasons as well.

Whether Cleveland pursues him seriously remains to be seen. The fit, however, is clear on paper.