In a significant move to bolster their bullpen, the Cleveland Guardians have announced a one-year agreement with veteran reliever Paul Sewald. This collaboration, reported on Wednesday, comes with a $7 million price tag, according to sources confirmed by ESPN’s Jeff Passan. The recognizable right-hander will potentially serve as a crucial setup man for the Guardians’ closer, Emmanuel Clase, as they attempt to solidify their late-game strategy.
Sewald, at 34 years of age, brings with him a wealth of experience, having racked up 84 saves over an impressive eight-year MLB career. His previous stints with teams such as the New York Mets, Seattle Mariners, and the Arizona Diamondbacks showcase his resilience and adaptability in various bullpen roles. In his most recent season with the Diamondbacks, Sewald recorded a 4.31 ERA along with 16 saves. However, his journey throughout the past season was marked by challenges, including an early injury that delayed his debut and a loss of effectiveness that led to him no longer being the primary closer by August.
Contract Details and Future Prospects
The structure of Sewald’s new contract reflects both a commitment from the Guardians and an opportunity for the player to earn further financial incentives. The deal incorporates a $10 million mutual option for the 2026 season, coupled with a $1 million buyout, reinforcing the team’s willingness to invest in Sewald’s longer-term potential. Additionally, he will receive a $1 million signing bonus and a $5 million salary for the current season, with opportunities to earn up to $500,000 in performance bonuses based on his relief appearances.
As Cleveland embraces this new addition, they also made the tough decision to designate right-hander Pedro Avila for assignment, creating space on their roster. Avila had a commendable season, posting a 3.25 ERA with a 5-1 record and becoming a reliable figure in Cleveland’s bullpen. His contributions, particularly in long relief situations, were invaluable to first-year manager Stephen Vogt as he managed a young team’s pitching challenges.
Looking Ahead
This move marks a significant change within the Guardians’ bullpen, as Sewald joins a lineup that has already seen the departure of fellow relievers Eli Morgan and Nick Sandlin during the offseason. The front office’s proactive approach to reshaping the pitching staff signals their ambition to contend during the coming season. As they adjust to new roles, both Sewald and the Guardians will be looking to forge a competitive edge in what promises to be an intriguing season ahead. Crafting a strong setup and closer relationship between Sewald and Clase could prove pivotal for the club’s success in high-stakes situations. In this evolving landscape of Major League Baseball, the Guardians appear ready to embrace their next chapter.