Free agent signings are starting to trickle in now that the MLB offseason is fully underway. The rate of activity remains unclear as the sport sorts through its current labor standoff that could change the financial climate significantly.
Yet, that may not impact the Cleveland Guardians much at all, as they have not been very active in the spending market in recent years. The potential for a salary floor could change their approach somewhat, but until that becomes official, fans can expect the Guardians to proceed with caution, as usual.
With that in mind, insider Jeff Passan has named the perfect free agent transaction for the Guardians, identifying starting pitcher Casey Mize, who finished last season with the San Diego Padres after spending his entire career with the rival Detroit Tigers.
“While the Guardians’ aggressiveness at the trade deadline helped them reach the ALCS, nobody expects them to replicate that in free agency. What the Guardians really could use is one more solid starting pitcher, preferably on a shorter-term deal, with real upside. And the ideal candidate is right there for them. Sign right-handed starter Casey Mize,” Passan wrote.
Mize pitched the previous five-plus seasons for the Tigers, which means the Guardians are very familiar with his work. Playing on an expiring contract, and with the Tigers out of playoff contention after having already traded away Tarik Skubal, Detroit dealt Mize to the Padres at this year’s deadline.
In 2025, two years removed from Tommy John surgery, Mize was 14-6 with a 3.87 ERA in 28 starts for Detroit and was a first-time All-Star. Last season, the 29-year-old was 6-10 with a 4.32 ERA in 26 starts with the Tigers and Padres combined. Projections suggest he will receive a two-year or three-year deal worth up to $18 million per season.
The Guardians may have been a victim of their starters’ good health in 2026, as four of the five members of their rotation made at least 30 starts. Even with the trade deadline acquisition of Foster Griffin, who is also a free agent, that could have led to some fatigue and the need for quality depth.
Interestingly, Mize has made just two starts in his career at Progressive Field, but they have been impressive. He has not allowed a run in 13.0 innings, allowing seven hits and three walks while striking out seven.
So, he could indeed turn out to be a perfect fit for Cleveland if the sides are able to come to an agreement.
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