The Cleveland Guardians have arguably the best bullpen in baseball, with names such as Emmanuel Clase, Tim Herrin, Cade Smith, Hunter Gaddis, Sam Hentges, Scott Barlow and Nick Sandlin, among others.
On the other hand, their rotation is by far their weakest unit, which became even worse with Shane Bieber out with injury and Triston McKenzie and Logan Allen in Triple-A.
Logic indicates that Cleveland should prioritize the rotation ahead of the trade deadline on July 30.
However, MLB senior writer Anthony Castrovince believes that the market could force the team to pivot and adopt another strategy.
“Anthony Castrovince: Because of how in-demand starting pitching is, there is an argument for the Guardians to build up the bullpen,” 92.3 The Fan tweeted.
Anthony Castrovince: Because of how in-demand starting pitching is, there is an argument for the Guardians to build up the bullpen https://t.co/Vs50aXB7We
— 92.3 The Fan (@923TheFan) July 9, 2024
Everybody wants starting pitching prior to the deadline, and there aren’t too many clear-cut sellers as we speak.
More teams could decide to join the group of “sellers” in the upcoming days or weeks but, generally speaking, it’s still a sellers’ market.
There won’t be too many starters available, and there will be many organizations hunting for rotation help.
On the other hand, there will likely be plenty of quality relievers available.
The Guardians could look to add one or two elite relievers, such as Tanner Scott or Carlos Estevez, and form a “super bullpen” that shortens games in the regular season and the playoffs.
With Gavin Williams seemingly back to form, plus Tanner Bibee and Ben Lively pitching well (and Carlos Carrasco improving, as well), Cleveland could finally start setting the foundation of their pitching staff for the upcoming weeks and months.
They might still need a solid starting pitcher, but shoring up the bullpen would also be a smart move.
NEXT: Guardians Star Announces Participation In Upcoming Home Run Derby
