While the Cleveland Guardians went into the All-Star break with a mediocre 45-45 record, they also headed to the break in first place in the American League Central. But despite their place in the standings, the Guardians got some bad news on Friday.
Shane Bieber, Cleveland’s Opening Day starting pitcher and a past Cy Young Award winner with the club, will miss at least one start.
Zack Meisel of The Athletic reported on Friday that “Shane Bieber underwent an MRI on his right elbow/forearm and will not make his next start. The team is awaiting test results.”
Shane Bieber underwent an MRI on his right elbow/forearm and will not make his next start. The team is awaiting test results.
— Zack Meisel (@ZackMeisel) July 14, 2023
This is not good news for the Guardians. One, while Bieber hasn’t been as sharp in 2023 as in years past, he is still one of the team’s best pitchers. Obviously, if he’s missing a lot of time, he can’t help Cleveland in its playoff push. Furthermore, Bieber has been the subject of trade rumors. And with the August 1 deadline lingering, Bieber’s trade value may have taken a serious hit. This is especially true if Tommy John Surgery is needed, since Bieber is set to be a free agent after the 2024 season.
Naturally, baseball fans were frustrated to read about Bieber’s injury news.
front office incompetence. should’ve been dealt in the off szn. total disaster class in all ways. https://t.co/XPlEsN3L4U
— gabb (@BaseballGabb) July 14, 2023
— Quincy Wheeler (@QuincyWheeler1) July 14, 2023
Well that couldn't come at a worse time. Trade value 📉
Logan Allen IS coming back up Tuesday… Though with Bieber likely looking at an extended absence they really didn't have a choice anyhow 🤬 https://t.co/bkDSU9X8Yh
— Less than Dave (@RunDMcD) July 14, 2023
Incredible.
Really hope they find a buyer for him before the deadline. https://t.co/rGX9Mgfd02
— Grant Puskar (@grant_puskar_) July 14, 2023
This is NOT ideal. https://t.co/PEEQjuklfc
— Chris Rose (@ChrisRose) July 14, 2023
From 2019-2022, Bieber was one of baseball’s best pitchers. He posted a 43-23 record with a 2.91 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and a 10.9 K/9 rate. He won the American League Cy Young Award in the COVID-19 shortened 2020 season.
The 2023 season has been more of a struggle. Bieber has a 5-6 record with a 3.77 ERA, 1.248 ERA and a 7.3 K/9 rate.
