The Cleveland Guardians have had a quiet offseason so far as they look to find ways to get over the hump after consecutive disappointing playoff exits in 2024 and 2025. The needs up and down the roster are clear, and fans are hoping the front office can be more aggressive considering how well the team has played over the past couple of years.
The need for a big bat is obvious, but the roster is also still in need of a few pitchers to step up now that Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz appear to be completely out of the picture due to their alleged gambling issues. For a team that appears dead-set on refusing to spend big money, it’s important to find diamonds in the rough, and a video surfaced recently from one of the team’s new pitchers working on developing into that diamond this team sorely needs.
Right-hander Pedro Avila surfaced in a video taken at the team’s Goodyear Development Complex this week and looks to be in good health as he prepares for what hopes to be a breakout campaign. After spending last season in Japan, he signed with the Guardians on a minor league deal, but could certainly carve out a role for himself in Cleveland’s bullpen if he can take a few steps forward in his development.
“Cleveland Guardians RHP Pedro Avila already out at the organizations Goodyear Development Complex putting in work getting ready for MLB spring training. Avila who recently signed a minor league contract for the 2026 season spent 2025 pitching in Japan,” Guardians Prospective posted on X.
Cleveland #Guardians RHP Pedro Avila already out at the organizations Goodyear Development Complex putting in work getting ready for MLB spring training.
Avila who recently signed a minor league contract for the 2026 season spent 2025 pitching in Japan. #Guardsball pic.twitter.com/IHIRVXWu2X
— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) January 6, 2026
The 28-year-old Avila is a familiar face, as he last pitched in MLB for the Guardians in 2024. He made 50 appearances that year and logged a 3.25 ERA across 74.2 innings of work before signing a one-year deal with the Tokyo Yakult Swallows of NPB this past season.
He is an accomplished major-league pitcher and should have no problem ingratiating himself back into the Guardians’ organization. While he may be on a minor-league deal, it wouldn’t be surprising at all to see him make an impact in this bullpen in 2026.
NEXT: Guardians Sign Former Cardinals Pitcher To Minor League Contract
