Update On Trade Talks Surrounding Guardians Shane Bieber

Shane Bieber, the talented right-handed pitcher for the Cleveland Guardians, has seen his likelihood of being traded diminish as the offseason unfolds.

This change is primarily driven by Bieber's impending free agency at the end of the 2024 season and the Guardians' strong commitment to contending for division titles in the coming years.

#RedSox have “checked-in” on Guardians RHP Shane Bieber, per source.

Ken Rosenthal had reported during July of last year that they were interested in acquiring him near the deadline.

pic.twitter.com/ftz6L4wSyh
— G.G. (@ggeiss24) December 30, 2023

Last season, the 28-year-old held a 3.80 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, with 107 strikeouts across 128 innings and 21 starts.

Unless the team's playoff prospects fade early in the season, it's increasingly probable that Bieber will stay with the Guardians, with the potential for a trade later in the season if circumstances change.

Bieber, a two-time All-Star and former American League Cy Young winner in 2020, faced some challenges in 2023 due to an elbow injury and a performance decline towards the end of the season, resulting in his highest ERA since his rookie year in 2018.

The #Dodgers checked in with the Guardians about Shane Bieber.https://t.co/NnlfwAl6Gn pic.twitter.com/ayqddcFfQZ
— Dodger Blue (@DodgerBlue1958) January 4, 2024

Despite these setbacks, there remains optimism that Bieber will rebound in 2024 and regain his status as a reliable starter.

However, concerns linger regarding his career-low strikeout rate, high hard-hit rate, and elevated average exit velocity allowed.

Over his six-year MLB career, Bieber holds a 3.27 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, with 938 strikeouts across 831 innings and 134 appearances. Photo Credit: William Purnell-USA TODAY Sports