Latest injury update suggests Guardians could get pitcher back soon

The Cleveland Guardians received encouraging news Monday regarding veteran reliever Shawn Armstrong, whose latest injury update suggests the club could soon regain an important bullpen piece.

Armstrong has been on the injured list since late April because of a strained right groin. The injury occurred while the right-hander was warming up before a game against the Toronto Blue Jays. Although he never entered the contest, the setback forced Cleveland to adjust its bullpen plans and redistribute late-inning responsibilities.

The Guardians signed Armstrong before the season to add stability, experience, and flexibility in relief. Before the injury, he posted a 1-0 record with a 4.22 ERA while striking out 13 batters over 10.2 innings. His absence left Cleveland without a veteran depth option during a demanding early stretch of the schedule.

Cleveland.com’s Paul Hoynes shared the latest update Monday on X, formerly Twitter, outlining the next step in Armstrong’s return process with Double-A Akron.

“Shawn Armstrong, on the IL since late April with a strained right groin, will make his first rehab appearance for Double-A Akron on Tuesday.”

Shawn Armstrong, on the IL since late April with a strained right groin, will make his first rehab appearance for Double-A Akron on Tuesday.

— paul hoynes (@hoynsie) May 11, 2026

The rehab assignment represents a significant step forward for the 35-year-old reliever and the Guardians. According to reports, the plan calls for one inning and roughly 20 to 25 pitches during Tuesday’s outing. Cleveland is expected to need only one or two appearances before determining whether Armstrong is ready to be activated.

The Akron RubberDucks will host Armstrong’s first game action since the injury sidelined him several weeks ago. If he responds well physically, the club could move quickly to bring him back as they continue navigating a competitive American League race.

For the Guardians bullpen, the timing is important. Armstrong’s return would provide the club with another experienced late-inning option while easing pressure on the rest of the relief corps during the opening months of the season. His presence could also improve bullpen flexibility and provide manager Stephen Vogt another reliable veteran arm in close games in the future.

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