The Cleveland Guardians have officially signed Paul Sewald, a former closer for the Arizona Diamondbacks, to a one-year contract with a mutual club option for the 2026 season. The deal was confirmed on Monday, January 15, 2025, and is expected to bolster the Guardians’ bullpen as they aim for a competitive 2025 MLB season.
Paul Sewald, who turned 34 last year, had an impressive season with the Diamondbacks, posting a 3.29 ERA across 61 appearances. His experience as a closer, particularly in high-pressure situations, is anticipated to provide a significant advantage to the Guardians.
Sewald’s performance in 2024 saw him securing 25 saves and striking out 80 batters, underlining his ability to handle late-game situations effectively. Cleveland Guardians’ general manager Mike Chernoff expressed optimism regarding Sewald’s addition, stating, “Paul brings a wealth of experience and reliability to our bullpen. His past role as a closer makes him a valuable asset for us moving forward.”
The mutual club option included in the deal serves as a safeguard for both the franchise and Sewald, allowing either party to evaluate the arrangement after the upcoming season. This strategic move indicates the Guardians’ commitment to strengthening their roster while maintaining flexibility.
In conjunction with this signing, the Guardians have emphasized their goal to return to the playoffs after falling short in the previous season. The team is currently recalibrating its roster, focusing on both experienced MLB players and emerging talents to create a competitive edge in the league.
This acquisition highlights the Guardians’ proactive approach in preparing for the 2025 season. The franchise is keen on improving their pitching depth and overall performance, aiming to reclaim a playoff spot in the increasingly competitive American League Central division.
