The Cleveland Guardians are trying to buy some time until Shane Bieber returns from his Tommy John surgery rehab, but they have lost seven consecutive games.
If they keep losing games at this rate, the only thing they will be buying will be prospects when they sell some of their assets at the deadline.
At 40-46, they can still theoretically make the postseason.
However, they will need to win some games this month, and they will need Bieber to return to full health and top form in a matter of weeks.
Where exactly is Bieber in his rehabilitation process?
On Saturday, he took a sizable step toward a potential return in a few weeks, throwing live batting practice to minor league hitters.
“Shane Bieber throwing to minor leaguers at Progressive Field,” Guardians insider Paul Hoynes posted on X.
Shane Bieber throwing to minor leaguers at Progressive Field. pic.twitter.com/KQt3uMX8P9
— paul hoynes (@hoynsie) July 5, 2025
Bieber had already begun pitching games in a minor league rehab stint a few weeks ago but had to be shut down in early June after reporting soreness in his elbow.
An MRI showed no structural damage, though, so he rested for a few days and resumed his throwing progression.
He is back to pitching some live batting practices and should graduate to a rehab assignment soon.
He had thrown bullpen sessions on June 24, June 26 and June 27 featuring all of his pitches, with no issues.
If he makes two or three rehab starts, there is a chance he returns later this month.
Whether it is late July or early August, it will matter little if Cleveland doesn’t start winning some games soon, though.
NEXT: Guardians Activate Late-Inning Reliever From Injured List
