The Cleveland Guardians re-signed ace Shane Bieber to a one-year deal worth $10 million, plus a $16 million player option for 2026 with a $4 million buyout.
They brought him back knowing that he won’t be ready for the start of the season.
After working hard on regaining his stuff in the 2023-24 off-season and dominating in the first two starts of the 2024 campaign, he blew out his elbow and required Tommy John surgery in April.
He is currently eight months removed from surgery, and he provided an update on his recovery on Wednesday.
“Shane Bieber reports he’s throwing at 90 feet three times per week. Encouraged and confident in his comeback but notes “there’s a long way to go,” Guardians reporter Tom Withers posted on X.
Shane Bieber reports he's throwing at 90 feet three times per week. Encouraged and confident in his comeback but notes "there's a long way to go." pic.twitter.com/OVc2WuFfXF
— Tom Withers (@twithersAP) December 11, 2024
Bieber will progressively increase the intensity of his workouts and his rehab.
He has reported no issues so far, but we will know more when he starts throwing closer to his normal velocity.
The expectation is that he will be ready to pitch in MLB games around June or July if all goes well.
The Guardians bet on him contributing at some point in 2025, hoping he is close to peak form around September and October.
That’s when they really need him, as it became evident in the 2024 postseason.
A healthy Bieber elevates the floor and ceiling of the entire rotation.
So far, Cleveland has re-signed Bieber and added Luis L. Ortiz via trade to their rotation.
They might bring in another arm, but the pitching staff is starting to take shape after weeks of speculation and inactivity.
NEXT: Guardians Lose 1 Player In MLB Phase Of The Rule 5 Draft
