MLB free agency is underway, and the Cleveland Guardians aim to build a roster to get back to the World Series in 2027. While Tarik Skubal remains the hot name in the rumor mill, the club was urged to sign a different former Detroit Tigers star to help with the pitching group next season.
In his latest column for ESPN, Jeff Passan named Casey Mize as an ideal fit for the Guardians. Passan likes the idea of Mize going to Cleveland due to his likely contract demands, along with what he can bring to the table to the starting rotation.
“What the Guardians really could use is one more solid starting pitcher, preferably on a shorter-term deal, with real upside,” Passan wrote. “And the ideal candidate is right there for them. Sign right-handed starter Casey Mize.”
Although Guardians fans may prefer signing Skubal, Mize could provide the spark the pitching group needs at least for the 2027 campaign. The 29-year-old has flashed potential throughout his career, but truthfully isn’t as consistent when compared to a superstar like Skubal. Still, through six years in MLB, Mize owns a career 4.22 ERA and 1.274 WHIP with 475 strikeouts through 571.1 innings pitched.
Mize played most of his career with the Tigers. However, the club traded him to the San Diego Padres before the deadline last season. The former first-round pick didn’t play nearly as consistently with the Padres as he did with the Tigers (7.46 ERA through 44.2 innings pitched in San Diego).
The Guardians have yet to make any noteworthy signings this offseason. But it’s still early, and the club has plenty of time to make some moves with December looming.
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