The Cleveland Guardians have secured the return of a key piece of their pitching staff for at least one more season, agreeing to terms with former Cy Young winner Shane Bieber. The 29-year-old right-hander will remain with the team under a two-year contract worth $26 million, according to multiple reports, with the second year being a player option that includes a $4 million buyout.
Bieber’s return is a significant move for a Guardians team that has been reshaping its roster and coming off an AL Central title. Despite an injury-plagued couple of years, including undergoing Tommy John surgery in April 2024, Bieber has proven to be one of the more reliable arms in Cleveland’s rotation. His deal provides the Guardians with a veteran presence as they look to contend in 2025 and beyond.
Bieber, who was the American League Cy Young Award winner in 2020, has spent his entire career with the Guardians. Over his six seasons, he has posted an impressive 3.22 ERA and established himself as one of the league’s top pitchers. However, his recent campaigns have been marred by injuries, including a significant setback earlier this year. After undergoing Tommy John surgery, Bieber is expected to return to action in mid-2025.
The contract structure reflects both the uncertainty surrounding his recovery and the potential for a big return. Bieber will earn $14 million for the 2025 season, with a $16 million player option for 2026. The option includes a $4 million buyout, allowing him to hit free agency again if he performs well enough to secure a long-term deal. Given the nature of the surgery and his expected recovery timeline, this setup provides Bieber with both financial security and flexibility to explore his options in a few years, should he return to full form.
For the Guardians, bringing Bieber back represents a significant move as they continue to build a competitive team. Despite missing out on some of their key players due to injuries last season, Cleveland still managed to secure the AL Central title and make a strong postseason push. Bieber’s return will give them an anchor in their rotation, and his leadership will be valuable as they look to repeat their success in 2025.
The Guardians are in a transitional phase, balancing development with championship aspirations. With key players like Bieber coming back, they’ll look to bolster their pitching staff as they seek to maintain their position as contenders in the competitive American League. Bieber’s deal could also serve as a stepping stone for him, depending on how well he recovers from Tommy John surgery. Should he prove his health, he could position himself for a lucrative contract in 2026, either with the Guardians or another team.
As Cleveland eyes the 2025 season, the return of Shane Bieber gives the team a major boost to its pitching staff, ensuring that one of the best arms in the game remains in the mix. If he returns to form, the Guardians could have one of the most formidable rotations in the AL, potentially positioning them for a deeper playoff run.
It’s a huge gamble for both Bieber and the Guardians, but with the potential for a huge payoff on both sides, this contract represents an important step forward for the team and a player looking to re-establish himself at the top of the league.
