AL Central: Who loses rotation spot when Bieber returns?

Cleveland Guardians

Luis L. Ortiz may be out of the picture for an extended period, but even without him, the rotation mix is about to be crowded. There will be six pitchers for five spots once Shane Bieber returns, with no clear casualty upon his activation. 

Bieber, who underwent Tommy John surgery last April, has been throwing bullpen sessions and live BP and is on the verge of the next step. He is set to embark on a rehab assignment in the very near future, and a return in late July or early August appears likely, assuming there are no setbacks. 

Joey Cantillo has a 34% K% and 15.7% SwK in two starts since returning to the rotation. He got up to 84 pitches in his most recent start, registering 7 K across 4 IP. Though walks remain an...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Luke Adams, Cooper Hjerpe, Owen Ayers, and BJ Murray may be among the guys called up to make their MLB debut in the NL Central
Aug 28 2026 3:05am
Angel Genao has been getting plenty of playing time in Cleveland, often at the expense of Brayan Rocchio. Plus, the possible return of Drew Thorpe for CHW, the bullpen outlook in DET, Sal Perez's 2H rebound, and Joe Ryan's recovery in MIN.
Aug 27 2026 3:06am
The A's have been depleted by injuries, but are getting some needed outfield help soon.
Aug 26 2026 3:05am
Could George Springer's playing time continue to slip as his struggles continue? Plus, Blaze Alexander nearing a return for BAL, and rotation updates for TB, BOS, and NYY.
Aug 25 2026 3:05am
Robert Stock has excelled at limiting hard contact, but can he become efficient enough to earn a win? Plus: 1B & SP in MIA; INF & SP in PHI; 1B in WAS; SP in ATL; more.
Aug 24 2026 3:37am

Tools