Guardians expected to sign Royals veteran and retain ace after winning 2024

The Cleveland Guardians had an impressive 2024 season that included an American League title and a trip to the ALCS.

They came up short against the New York Yankees, but they have a bright future ahead of them as young stars flood into the system.

However, interestingly, they are expected to spend some money this winter. Jim Bowden recently published an article with 25 predictions for the offseason.

One of those predictions suggests that the Guardians will not only retain ace Shane Bieber, but also sign veteran Michael Wacha to a three-year, $45 million deal.

Bieber made two starts before Tommy John surgery, so he missed most of the 2024 season and will also miss most of the 2025 season. Luckily, the Guardians still have Tanner Beebe at the top of their rotation.

But Wacha will be a good addition to Bibi until Bieber returns. By then, the Guardians could have a truly fearsome starting rotation with two legitimate aces at the top and a solid arm in the middle of the rotation in Wacha.

Wacha, 33, went 13-8 with the Kansas City Royals and posted a 3.35 ERA in 28 starts. He was a reliable source of veteran pitching and could greatly improve the Guardians’ rotation.

This would give the Guardians a great chance to potentially compete for a World Series title in 2025.

They already have a great young team, but adding a few veterans to their roster could ultimately push them to the top and make them clear favorites in the AL Central.

Let’s see if they spend some money this winter.

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