Guardians make deadline position clear amid flurry of moves

The Cleveland Guardians are starting to sell — and they might not be done yet.

Since trading Francisco Lindor in the 2021 offseason, the franchise has been in limbo, with Jose Ramírez as the lone face of the team. Even after a surprising run to the ALCS last season, it’s clear 2022 (when Cleveland went 92-70 and advanced to the divisional round) isn’t walking through that door.

On deadline morning, Cleveland traded former AL Cy Young winner Shane Bieber to the Toronto Blue Jays in a one-for-one deal for pitching prospect Khal Stephen (TOR’s No. 5 prospect). Bieber, an impending free agent, had long been a trade candidate, and the Guardians moved quickly as his value rebounded post-injury.

Shortly after, the Guardians shipped veteran reliever Paul Sewald—who they acquired just months ago from Arizona—to the Detroit Tigers, signaling more moves could be on deck.

Reports indicate Cleveland is actively fielding offers for multiple key contributors, including outfielder Steven Kwan, who continues to produce at a high level, and breakout reliever Cade Smith.

Despite being in striking distance of a wild-card spot (2.5 games back), Cleveland appears focused on the long-term picture.

And that future is quietly taking shape.

The Guardians are building around a wave of talent led by Travis Bazzana, this year’s first-round pick and a fast-rising college bat. Outfielders Chase DeLauter and Jaison Chourio, slugging corner infielder Kyle Manzardo, and versatile shortstop Brayan Rocchio headline the farm system. The club also re-acquired Nolan Jones from the Rockies this past offseason, bringing back a player it originally developed.

As the deadline unfolds, the message is clear: Cleveland is looking ahead — and a rebuild might already be underway.