In a move that strengthens their pitching rotation, the Cleveland Guardians have finalized a one-year contract with right-handed pitcher Jakob Junis. The deal is valued at $4.5 million and was officially announced on Sunday.
Jakob Junis’ joins Cleveland Guardians
Junis, 32, has been a consistent presence on the mound throughout his eight-year MLB career. The right-hander chose to decline an $8 million mutual option with the Cincinnati Reds last November, opting instead for a $3 million buyout.
He had joined Cincinnati in July, following a trade that sent Frankie Montas to the Milwaukee Brewers. Junis proved valuable to the Reds, posting a solid 2.85 ERA in five starts and nine relief appearances. His 2024 season finished on a high note, with a 4-0 record and a 2.69 ERA in six starts and 18 relief appearances.
Throughout his career, Junis has appeared in 192 games, including 116 starts, across stints with the Kansas City Royals, San Francisco Giants, Milwaukee Brewers, and Cincinnati Reds. With a career record of 42-45 and an ERA of 4.48, Junis brings a wealth of experience to the Guardians’ pitching staff.
Cleveland Guardians strengthen their roster after signing Jakob Junis
The Guardians are coming off a strong season where they exceeded expectations, finishing with 92 wins and capturing the AL Central title before advancing to the AL Championship Series. To build on this momentum, they have made a series of strategic moves during the offseason.
One key addition is veteran Gold Glove first baseman Carlos Santana, who signed a one-year, $12 million contract after the team traded Josh Naylor to the Arizona Diamondbacks. In addition, the Guardians bolstered their bullpen by securing a one-year, $7 million deal with reliever Paul Sewald, who will join closer Emmanuel Clase in the back end of the bullpen.
The Guardians also made a move regarding left-handed pitcher Sam Hentges, placing him on the 60-day injured list. Hentges underwent shoulder surgery on September 18, performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache, head team physician for the Los Angeles Dodgers. The surgery aimed to repair the capsule and labrum in his left shoulder, with an estimated recovery time of 12 to 14 months.
With the addition of Jakob Junis and several other key offseason moves, the Cleveland Guardians look to further strengthen their roster as they aim for another successful season in 2025.