The Cleveland Guardians could use all the talent they can get right now.
Yes, the offense is their most glaring need, but that doesn’t mean they can’t and won’t upgrade other parts of the roster.
Their bullpen is supposed to be a strength, but it can certainly use more consistency and firepower.
A healthy Trevor Stephan can contribute those traits and more.
The righty reliever, who has been rehabbing after Tommy John surgery in the spring of 2024, has been racking up the Ks in the Arizona Complex League.
There, he has a 9.00 ERA after allowing two runs in two frames, but with five strikeouts to his name.
In his most recent outing last Friday, he faced three hitters and struck them all out on 16 pitches.
He looked marvelous in the process, but it’s time for him to be tested against tougher competition.
The Guardians have seen enough and are moving his rehab closer to the majors, to Triple-A Columbus.
“Cleveland Guardians have assigned RHP Trevor Stephan to Triple-A Columbus for a rehab assignment,” Guardians Prospective posted on X.
Cleveland #Guardians have assigned RHP Trevor Stephan to Triple-A Columbus for a rehab assignment.
— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) June 17, 2025
Stephan is a highly experienced arm who can be a real difference-maker for Cleveland.
In 2022, he had his best season with a 2.69 ERA in 63.2 innings.
He accumulated 82 punchouts and a 2.19 FIP.
He probably wasn’t at his best in 2023, but still managed to put up a 4.06 ERA in 68.2 frames.
If he is truly healthy, Stephan will quickly enter the late-innings mix, helping bridge the gap between the starters and closer Emmanuel Clase.
He will be a fantastic addition for manager Stephen Vogt provided he doesn’t experience any setbacks and proves he can handle Triple-A hitters in the upcoming days.
NEXT: Guardians Manager Will Be Part Of AL Coaching Staff In All-Star Game
