Could the Guardians trade pitcher Shane Bieber? Here are the potential landing spots

Could Shane Bieber Pitch Elsewhere in 2025? Trade Rumors Swirl as Deadline Nears

Cleveland's ace faces uncertain future amid team's playoff push and MLB investigation.

CLEVELAND — The fate of star pitcher Shane Bieber hangs in the balance as the July 31 trade deadline approaches. Rumors swirl that the Guardians might be willing to part ways with their ace, who is currently rehabbing from Tommy John surgery.

Bieber, when healthy, possesses the potential to be a dominant force on the mound. However, his return to major league action remains at least a week or two away, posing a challenge for interested teams who would be evaluating him solely through rehab assignments.

The Guardians find themselves in a precarious position. They recently navigated a tumultuous stretch marked by a 10-game losing streak followed by an impressive 11-2 surge that propelled them back into playoff contention. However, the recent gambling investigation involving All-Star closer Emmanuel Clase, who is sidelined through at least August 31st, significantly impacts their pursuit of a Wild Card berth.

While the Guardians are known for valuing their assets and standing firm on trade offers, they have historically been open to exploring various options.

Contract Complications Add Another Layer

Bieber signed a one-year deal with Cleveland this past offseason worth $10 million, including a player option for 2026 valued at $16 million with an opt-out clause of $4 million. This adds complexity to any potential trade, as acquiring teams would be responsible for roughly $3.2 million for the remainder of the season plus another $4 million for his opt-out, totaling a significant $7.2 million for two months of Bieber coming off Tommy John surgery. It presents a high-risk, high-reward scenario.

Potential Trading Partners Emerge

While trade negotiations remain fluid, several teams have emerged as potential suitors for Bieber's services.

• Los Angeles Dodgers: Boasting both a powerhouse major league roster and one of baseball’s top farm systems, the Dodgers possess ample resources to pursue a deal for Bieber. Top prospect Dalton Rushing, considered a standout catcher, could be a key piece in any trade package.
• Chicago Cubs: The Cubs are eager to close the gap with the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central and see Bieber as a potential solution. They hold several top prospects, primarily on the offensive side, who could entice the Guardians.
• Toronto Blue Jays: Currently leading the AL East, the Blue Jays have strong motivation to bolster their roster. Their farm system, while less robust than others, includes notable prospects like shortstop Arjun Nimmala and right-handed pitcher Trey Yesavage.
• New York Yankees: Another contender in the AL East, the Yankees could be seeking a front-line starter like Bieber. Their top trade chip is George Lombard Jr., their lone top-90 prospect.

Steven Kwan Also Generating Trade Interest

Beyond Bieber, Steven Kwan's impressive performance has also piqued the interest of several MLB teams.

The trade deadline promises to be an exciting and unpredictable period for the Cleveland Guardians. With decisions looming regarding Bieber's future and other key players, the next few weeks will undoubtedly shape their trajectory for the remainder of the season and beyond.