Cleveland Guardians ace Shane Bieber underwent Tommy John surgery about 11 months ago.
Most pitchers return from the procedure in the 14-16 month range.
Bieber is not like most pitchers, though.
He is one of the most disciplined and driven athletes you will find in MLB.
Yes, he was bummed when he learned he had to go under the knife last year, but he mentally recovered, completed every step of his rehab, and is now looking at a first-half return.
In other words, he might be ahead of schedule, even if the organization won’t use that exact phrase to avoid generating unfair expectations.
Cleveland sportscaster Bruce Drennan was discussing Bieber and his road back to full health with Guardians Senior Vice President of Public Affairs Bob DiBiasio on his show.
DiBiasio couldn’t help but feel excited about the pitcher’s attitude and demeanor.
The ace is conducting himself like a man who knows he will be back soon where he belongs.
“He is a man that is no slumped shoulders, he’s not sulking. He’s upright, and confident.” Bob DiBiasio,” the Drennan posted on X about Bieber.
Are you ready to have Shane Bieber back on the mound for the Guardians? #ForThe Land
"He is a man that is no slumped shoulders, he's not sulking. He's upright, and confident."
-Bob DiBasio pic.twitter.com/nFVIHlqi0g
— Bruce Drennan Show (@Bruce_Drennan) March 7, 2025
It’s hard not to feel excitement about Bieber’s pending return when he looked so good before going down with the injury in March and April of 2024.
He struck out 20 hitters and didn’t allow a single run in 12 innings of work.
Bieber is already throwing bullpens and could soon advance in his recovery.
He still has steps to clear but is looking likely to be back before June.
NEXT: Guardians Announce First Roster Reduction Of The Spring
