The Cleveland Guardians have lost seven consecutive games and look helpless, particularly on offense.
They already dropped the series opener against the Detroit Tigers on Friday, so the remaining games vs. the AAL Central leaders are effectively must-win affairs.
Offense is their most glaring need at the moment, but that doesn’t mean their bullpen can’t use some help, too.
They are getting it in the form of a pitcher returning from a stint on the injured list.
“The Guardians activated Paul Sewald from the 15-day IL and optioned Doug Nikhazy to Columbus,” Guardians insider Tim Stebbins posted on X.
The Guardians activated Paul Sewald from the 15-day IL and optioned Doug Nikhazy to Columbus.
— Tim Stebbins (@tim_stebbins) July 5, 2025
Sewald might not be pitching as well as he did in recent seasons, when he was a bullpen stalwart with the Seattle Mariners, but he has a chance to contribute if healthy.
He returns to Cleveland’s relief mix ahead of Saturday’s critical game vs. the Tigers.
Sewald, 35, suffered a right shoulder strain in late April and has been slowly rehabbing ever since.
After posting a 4.50 ERA in four rehab innings between Double-A and Triple-A, the Guardians considered him ready to rejoin the bullpen.
He put up a 6.17 ERA in Cleveland before hitting the injured list, and fans have made it clear that they expect more.
Left-hander pitching prospect Doug Nikhazy has been sent to the minor leagues in the corresponding move.
Even though he lost his roster spot, Nikhazy has considerable potential and will likely be back at some point this season.
As for Sewald, he knows he has a lot of work to do to regain his top form.
NEXT: Guardians' Top Prospect Set To Begin Rehab Assignment
