Trade rumors have been swirling around Cleveland Guardians pitcher Shane Bieber, sparking leaguewide interest. While the team has been performing well lately, there is no denying why other teams are attracted to the former Cy Young winner, especially those seeking to strengthen their pitching rotation. However, it is important to note that Bieber’s availability for trade is not set in stone.
At 28 years old, Bieber will enter arbitration for the final time next season before becoming an unrestricted free agent. Some teams are speculating whether the Guardians would consider parting ways with their two-time All-Star before he hits free agency.
MLB Network’s Jon Morosi reports that multiple starting pitchers from the Guardians have garnered significant interest. Nonetheless, the team’s ascent in the standings may hinder any potential moves, unless a compelling trade offer arises.
Although Bieber may not be having a Cy Young-caliber season, his performance suggests he could still be a valuable frontline starter for several teams, providing a boost to their rotations for a postseason push.
Bieber’s season statistics stand at 5-5 with a 3.66 ERA, 89 strikeouts, and 33 walks in 110.2 innings pitched.
It remains a possibility that Cleveland becomes the destination for the postseason push, particularly given that the AL Central is currently the weakest division in baseball. As the August 1 MLB trade deadline approaches, the Guardians are a team worth keeping an eye on. However, if their winning streak continues, Cleveland may shift from being sellers to becoming buyers once again.
