Can Cleveland finally add depth to its infield? The club announced Thursday that it claimed left‑handed infielder José Tena off waivers from Washington. He’d been DFA’d earlier in the week. Tena originally signed with Cleveland out of the Dominican Republic and was later dealt to the Nationals in the 2024 deadline that sent outfielder Lane Thomas to Cleveland.
At 25, Tena once ranked among Cleveland’s top prospects, sitting ninth on MLB.com’s list before the 2022 season and 11th in Baseball America’s rankings. A left‑handed hitter, he’s seen every corner of the infield left of first, though second and third suit him best.
Tena has logged parts of four big‑league seasons with Washington and Cleveland, racking up 659 plate appearances. His career slash line reads .240/.303/.358, translating to a wRC+ 17 points below league average.
While his major‑league numbers aren’t dazzling, his 27.5% strikeout rate—spiking to 31.3% in a career‑high 288 PA last year—raises concerns. He does possess solid bat speed and makes hard contact, posting a .295/.362/.486 line over nearly 700 Triple‑A plate appearances. Power is evident, yet frequent whiffs have limited his production.
Tena has no minor‑league options, so he must either make the major‑league roster next season or face another DFA. If Cleveland can clear waivers again, they could outright him to Triple‑A Columbus, preserving a 40‑man spot. Right now he fits as a left‑handed bench piece capable of backing up third‑baseman José Ramírez, second‑baseman Travis Bazzana and, if needed, shortstop Brayan Rocchio. For my money, he provides the most versatile left‑handed depth on the roster. Will the Guardians keep him beyond spring training?