The Cleveland Guardians are bringing back a familiar face. They continue to strengthen their already stacked bullpen with more arms.
Right-handed reliever Pedro Avila is back on a one-year deal. With that in mind, he took to social media to let the fans know just how excited he was to be back at Progressive Field.
“I’m back,” Avila wrote.
I’m Back 🍩 pic.twitter.com/G2E6cGbt0J
— Pedro Avila (@pedroavilaa7) December 28, 2025
The Guardians designated Avila for assignment less than a year ago. He went on to play in Japan, logging a 4.04 ERA in 82.1 innings of work. His strikeout rate was far from elite (17.8 percent) but his ground ball rate was impressive (43.9 percent), all while holding the opposition to an 8.7 percent walk rate.
A former Washington Nationals signee back in 2015, Avila spent most of his development years with the San Diego Padres, even making his MLB debut with them back in 2019. He didn’t play much until 2023, when he posted a decent 3.22 ERA with a 3.67 FIP in 50.1 innings.
The Padres cut ties with him after a slow start to the 2024 season, and that’s when the Guardians lured him to Ohio. He was a reliable long relief option, logging 74.2 innings of work over 50 appearances and posting a 3.25 ERA and a 3.76 FIP.
The Guardians gave him a split contract, which means that they will be able to use him in the minors and the majors despite his lack of options. Stephen Vogt’s team hangs its hat on their ability to get things done on the mound, and he’ll have another chance to prove that he’s worth keeping around for the long run.
NEXT: Details Emerge About Why Lane Thomas Left Guardians
