The Guardians just dropped a big lump of coal in the stocking of “Big Christmas.” Jhonkensy Noel, nicknamed “Big Christmas” by Manager Stephen Vogt in 2023 because of the home run power Noel displayed, on Dec. 17 was designated for assignment by the Guardians. The Guardians have run out of p atience with Noel, 24, because he batted .162 in 2025 with just six home runs and 13 RBI in 69 games. He struck out 52 times and walked only four times. He hit 13 home runs and drove in 28 runs in 67 games while batting .218 and striking out 63 times in 2024. Noel’s two-run homer with two out in the bottom of the ninth inning of Game 3 of the ALCS with the Yankees in 2024 tied the score, 5-5. David Fry won the game with a two-run home run in the 10th inning. As it turns out, that was the highlight of his career — at least so far. A player is immediately removed from the 40-man roster when he is DFA’d. The Guardians have a seven-day window to either trade Noel or place him on outright or unconditional waivers. If he is claimed within seven days, he immediately is added to the claiming team’s 40-man roster. The Guardians can assign Noel to Triple-A Columbus (or any of their minor-league affiliates) if he clears unconditional waivers. In a related move, the Guardians traded cash to the Blue Jays for 28-year-old left-handed relief pitcher Justin Bruihl and made him part of the 40-man roster. He was 0-0 in 15 games over 13 2/3 innings with the Blue Jays last season while allowing only one home run. ...read more read less