"It Was Really Simple:" Carlos Carrasco On Returning To Cleveland

Originally posted on FanNation Cleveland Baseball Insider
By Tommy Wild | Last updated 2/19/24

The Cleveland Guardians didn't make a massive splash in free agency during the offseason for a variety of reasons. However, they did make one move that all fans can rejoice about.

Carlos Carrasco was happy to return to the organization where he made his debut and spent the first 11 seasons of his career. This was clear when hearing Cookie reflect on his decision to come back to the place where everything began.

“It was really simple,” said Carrasco. “I just want to come back here. I spent 11 years here. It was really smooth. I’m glad that I’m here.”

Carrasco even mentioned that he's heard "from everyone. The Clinic that I went to in Cleveland, restaurants, friends, everyone. … They’re pretty happy that I’m here.”

Fans aren't the only ones who are happy to see Carrasco back with the team. President of Baseball Operations Chris Antonetti admitted he is thrilled to have Cookie back with the team.

"It's awesome," said Chris. "We were almost in tears in that meeting and hearing him just reflect on his journey and talk about different people on his path that have impacted him and how happy he is to be back. We share that excitement."

It's great to see a fan favorite get the love he deserves upon his return. Cleveland and Carrasco will forever be linked after the city rallied behind him following his leukemia diagnosis in the middle of the 2019 season. This warm welcome is just one example of that.

Now onto the baseball side of things. Is there an easy path for Carrasco to crack the major league roster? Not quite.

The five-man rotation is set and has the potential to be one of the best in baseball. This could be an option for Carrasco and the organization if there's an unforeseen injury. However, there certainly is more flexibility when it comes to the bullpen. Cookie could make the team as a long-reliever out of the bullpen.

No matter what happens on the diamond, having Carrasco back in the organization is a win for players, fans, and the front office.

This article first appeared on FanNation Cleveland Baseball Insider and was syndicated with permission.

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