The Toronto Blue Jays have made a significant move by acquiring Shane Bieber in a trade with the Cleveland Guardians, signaling their commitment to strengthening their pitching staff. The former Cy Young Award winner, who has faced challenges due to a season-ending elbow injury, has shown promise in recent minor league rehab starts and is expected to make a comeback.
In exchange for Bieber, the Blue Jays have sent pitching prospect Khal Stephen, a promising right-hander from Mississippi State who boasts an impressive 2.36 ERA over 18 appearances this season, to the Guardians. This trade was announced on Thursday and does not involve any financial adjustments, as Toronto will cover the remaining salary of Bieber’s contract, which includes a $10 million salary for 2025 and a $16 million player option for 2026.
Bieber, now 30, won the American League Cy Young Award in 2020 and has been a leading pitcher throughout his career, holding a 62-32 record with a 3.22 ERA over parts of seven seasons with the Guardians. After undergoing Tommy John surgery in April 2024, he has made strides in his recovery, recently striking out seven batters in four innings during a minor league game on Tuesday.
The Blue Jays currently lead the American League East, boasting a deep rotation that includes Kevin Gausman, Chris Bassitt, Eric Lauer, Jose Berrios, and newly acquired Max Scherzer, making them a formidable contender as they approach playoff season. If Bieber can return to his previous form, he could serve as a strong asset in crucial playoff games.
Additionally, this trade follows another recent acquisition by the Blue Jays of hard-throwing reliever Seranthony Dominguez from the Baltimore Orioles, further enhancing their bullpen as they strive for success this season.
The Guardians have expressed willingness to trade players, especially after losing star closer Emmanuel Clase to an investigation. With the MLB trade deadline approaching, outfielder Steven Kwan is another player to watch for potential movement.
This trade highlights the strategic moves both teams are making in anticipation of the playoffs and trade deadline, with the Blue Jays aiming to solidify their championship aspirations. Fans can look forward to seeing how these players perform as the season progresses.