Guardians Re-Sign Shane Bieber to Strategic Two-Year Deal

The Cleveland Guardians have secured the services of right-hander Shane Bieber, who will be returning to the club under a new contract agreement. The deal, valued at $10 million for the 2025 season, includes a $16 million player option for 2026, with a $4 million buyout. This structure guarantees Bieber $26 million over two years, but he has the flexibility to enter free agency after earning $14 million in the first year if he chooses.


Bieber, who turns 30 in May, has spent his entire career with the Guardians, making this return a notable moment for both the player and the organization. Represented by Rosenhaus Sports Representation, Bieber reportedly turned down higher offers from other teams, demonstrating his loyalty to Cleveland.


The contract reflects Bieber's current status following Tommy John surgery in April, which will cause him to miss a significant portion of the upcoming season. This deal provides Bieber the opportunity to recover and prove his health in 2025. If he can return to his previous elite form, he has the option to re-enter the market. However, if he encounters any setbacks, the player option ensures he has financial security with an additional $12 million guaranteed for 2026.


Bieber's potential is well-documented. He won the American League Cy Young Award in 2020, dominating the shortened season with a 1.63 ERA over 12 starts. During that year, he struck out 41.1% of batters faced, walked just 7.1%, and maintained a ground ball rate of 48.4%.


The Guardians' decision to re-sign Bieber signifies their confidence in his ability to bounce back from injury and contribute significantly to the team's success. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Bieber's recovery progresses and how he performs upon his return to the mound.


This strategic move by the Guardians not only strengthens their pitching rotation but also highlights the club's commitment to retaining key players who have been integral to their success.