Cleveland Guardians Sign Pedro Avila to Non-Guaranteed Deal

The Cleveland Guardians are reportedly signing pitcher Pedro Avila to a non-guaranteed deal, as reported by El Extrabase. This agreement involves a split contract that would provide Avila with a prorated Major League Baseball (MLB) salary if he secures a spot on the Guardians' major league roster, or a predetermined rate for minor league play. The Guardians have yet to officially confirm the signing.

Pedro Avila, 28, previously played for the Guardians in 2024, where he established himself as a reliable innings-eater out of the bullpen. During that season, he made 50 appearances, logging over 70 innings with a record of 5-1 and a 3.25 earned run average (ERA), alongside 73 strikeouts. His performance was pivotal in solidifying the middle innings for then-manager Stephen Vogt. Avila was acquired in April 2024 from the San Diego Padres, and his contributions were significant in the Guardians' postseason run.

In the 2025 season, Avila pitched as a starter for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball league, where he recorded a 7-8 record with a 4.04 ERA, striking out 61 batters while walking 30 in 82.1 innings.

Avila's return comes as the Guardians are actively seeking to strengthen their bullpen. The team has recently signed right-handed pitcher Codi Heuer to a minor league contract, who is also invited to spring training. Heuer had a notable performance in the 2024 American League Championship Series (ALCS) against the New York Yankees, where he pitched four scoreless innings across three appearances, contributing to the team's success.

While the Guardians have not yet issued a formal statement regarding Avila's signing, the reported deal reflects the team's strategy to enhance their pitching depth as they prepare for the upcoming season.

There has been some skepticism regarding the decision to bring back Avila, particularly given his mixed results in Japan and the competitive nature of the Guardians' bullpen. Critics argue that relying on a player with inconsistent performance could hinder the team's overall effectiveness.

As the Guardians prepare for spring training, Avila will compete for a spot on the major league roster amidst a growing list of right-handed pitchers. The outcome of this competition will be closely monitored as the team aims to bolster its bullpen for the 2025 season.