Ohio — pitcher , who played a key role in the Guardians’ run to the American League Championship Series following his recovery from elbow surgery, is reportedly signing a two-year deal with the Chicago Cubs. MLB insider reports the contract is worth $29 million, with an additional $1 million in performance bonuses.
Guardians president of baseball operations Chris Antonetti shared after the postseason that the team had discussions with Boyd about a potential return. Boyd, 33, expressed interest, and Antonetti praised him as an “elite human being” whose presence brought stability to Cleveland’s young rotation. Antonetti emphasized Boyd’s leadership and mentorship, saying he contributed significantly both on and off the field.
Despite mutual interest, Boyd, a native of the Seattle area, chose to join the Cubs.
After missing most of 2023 due to Tommy John surgery, Boyd signed with Cleveland on June 29. He returned to action on August 13, coincidentally against the Cubs, in a 2-1 Guardians victory. Over eight regular-season starts, Boyd posted a 2-2 record with a 2.72 ERA and 46 strikeouts in 39 2/3 innings. His strong performance continued into the postseason, where he allowed just one run in 11 2/3 innings across three starts, enhancing his value in free agency.
Reflecting on his time with Cleveland, Boyd called the experience “unique” and praised the team’s culture under first-year manager Stephen Vogt, saying, “It’s my 10th season in the big leagues, and I haven’t played on a team like this. How people care about each other starts from the top down.”
Meanwhile, the free-agent market for pitchers has been active. Frankie Montas re-signed with the Mets for two years and $34 million, and Yusei Kikuchi joined the Angels on a three-year, $69 million deal. Both, along with newly signed Dodgers lefty Blake Snell, are clients of agent Scott Boras, who also represents Boyd.
Boras appears to have adjusted his approach to pitching clients after previous delays in free-agent signings led to poor early-season results. Notably, Jordan Montgomery parted ways with Boras after struggling early in 2024 and is now seeking a trade from the Diamondbacks.
The Guardians, now evaluating their options, still have right-handers Alex Cobb and Shane Bieber available. However, Bieber’s recovery from elbow surgery will likely sideline him until mid-2025, and the 37-year-old Cobb made limited appearances for Cleveland last year due to persistent blister and fingernail issues.
Leave a Reply