Luke Maile, a former catcher for the Cleveland Guardians, has agreed to a one-year contract with the Cincinnati Reds for the 2024 season. The deal, worth $3.5 million, ensures Maile’s return to the Reds after his first season with the team in 2023.

Serving as the backup catcher, the 32-year-old veteran appeared in 74 games, achieving a batting average of .235 along with six home runs and a .699 OPS.

According to Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall, Maile made a positive impact on the team both on and off the field. He was well-liked by the staff and players and proved to be a valuable addition. The Reds expressed their excitement about Maile’s re-signing through a tweet, stating, “Luke’s stayin’ home!!”

Prior to joining the Reds, Maile played for the Cleveland Guardians in the 2022 season, where he participated in 74 games, hitting .221 with three home runs and a .627 OPS. Throughout his eight-year MLB career, Maile has also played for the Milwaukee Brewers, Toronto Blue Jays, and Tampa Bay Rays. Overall, he holds a career batting average of .212 with 19 home runs and a .603 OPS.