Guardians ace Shane Bieber opens up on $26,000,000 re-signing decision in free agency

Shane Bieber will remain with the Cleveland Guardians after signing a two-year, $26 million deal with the club this offseason which includes a $16 million player option for the 2026 season. It also includes a $4 million buyout if the starting pitcher decides to leave and become a free agent again.

The former AL Cy Young winner appeared on Chris Rose's podcast on Monday to discuss his surprising move to re-sign with the team when many expected that he would have signed with some other team.

While the re-signing process appeared straightforward in hindsight, Bieber revealed it was far from smooth.

"It was that morning. It wasn’t looking ... yeah, it was looking bleak, and I’ll just leave it at that," Bieber said (4:20 onwards). "Then, we were able to come to terms in the morning and throughout the day. It happened very quickly. I’ve always been ready for that moment, and my team, my family, everybody was prepared. I’m thankful for that—to be ready to act at a moment’s notice.

"That’s kind of how free agency can go. If there’s something that works for you on the table, you’ve got to go out there, make it happen, and take it. Without giving away too many details, it was... yeah, it was looking kind of bleak, and I’m very, very happy to get something done and to be returning."

Bieber won both of his starts last season before undergoing season-ending Tommy John surgery. He was also limited to 21 starts in the 2023 season due to elbow problems; he went 6-6 with a 3.80 ERA, his highest ERA since his rookie year in 2018.

Shane Bieber talks about dealing with medical evaluations during free agency

There's no denying Shane Bieber could have gotten the long-term extension had he pitched the entirety of the 2024 season. The 29-year-old discussed the complexity of dealing with medical evaluations during free agency.

Bieber praised his medical team, including Dr. Keith Meister and Keith Coker, for their exceptional care and support throughout his rehab process. (Start at 5:20)

"No, it’s definitely interesting. It was the first time I ever went through it, and just to add a little cherry on top — Tommy John surgery right in the middle of it," Shane Bieber said. "I’ve continued my rehab throughout. Right now, I’m at 90 feet, three sets this upcoming week, and feeling great. I haven’t really missed a beat, and I’m very excited to continue that progress.

"Throughout it, teams ask for medicals—both from the team you were with prior as well as, in my case, Dr. Keith Meister and Keith Coker over in Tempe, where I’ve been doing my rehab post-World Series. I made that transition from Goodyear at the Cleveland complex over to Tempe."

As Shane Bieber continues his rehab and prepares for the upcoming season, Guardians fans can look forward to seeing their ace back on the mound, aiming to build on his stellar track record and further cement his legacy in Cleveland.