“Big Christmas” is back: Jhonkensy Noel’s festive nickname returns to the 2025 postseason
Every October brings new heroes, and this year in Cleveland, one of the most unique nicknames in baseball has resurfaced: “Big Christmas.”
Guardians slugger Jhonkensy Noel earned the festive nickname for obvious reasons. He is a towering presence at the plate, and his last name translates to “Christmas” in French. The combination was too good to pass up when Cleveland manager Stephen Vogt tagged him with it earlier in his career, and fans quickly embraced the nickname.
He's back again
Now that the Guardians are back in the postseason, “Big Christmas” is once again making noise. Noel’s power and presence off the bench have added a jolt to Cleveland’s lineup, and the nickname has become part of the city’s October buzz. When he steps into the box, chants of “Big Christmas” echo through Progressive Field, a reminder of both his imposing size and the joy he brings when the ball meets his bat.
Noel struggled in a limited time this season, with just 150 plate appearances. He hit five home runs and drove in 12 runs. He did not see MLB action until between July 9 and September 1.
MORE: St. Louis Cardinals announce Oli Marmol will return in 2026
Cleveland’s 2025 season was built on consistency and timely hitting. The Guardians captured another division crown and earned home-field advantage in their postseason series with the Tigers. That success has only added to the energy around the team, and Noel has become one of the faces of this October push.
The beauty of the nickname lies in its simplicity. He is big, he is Noel, and he brings a holiday-sized gift of power every time he connects. With Cleveland chasing a deep run, “Big Christmas” has become a perfect fit for the season, festive and unforgettable at a time when the city is rallying behind its team.
More MLB News:
- Tarik Skubal leads loaded starting pitcher matchups for wildcard day 1
- Texas Rangers move on after Hall of Fame manager delivers their first title
- Philadelphia Phillies get huge news just before playoff baseball begins
- Aaron Judge makes more MLB history on Saturday
- Milwaukee Brewers hit with brutal pitching injuries right before playoffs
- Los Angeles Dodgers join elite club in 2025 season
- Party is just starting for 2025 Toronto Blue Jays