Cleveland Guardians Sign Vince Velasquez to Minor League Deal

Vince Velasquez has signed a minor league deal with the Cleveland Guardians, including an invitation to spring training, as he attempts to make a comeback following elbow surgery that sidelined him throughout the 2024 season. The 32-year-old right-hander last pitched in the majors in 2023 with the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he posted a 3.86 ERA in eight starts before undergoing surgery for a damaged ulnar collateral ligament. Velasquez, who previously played for the Philadelphia Phillies and other teams, is looking to revitalize his career with Cleveland, which is seeking depth in its pitching rotation after a successful 2024 season that saw the team reach the AL Championship Series. The deal is pending a physical, and Velasquez has a chance to earn up to $4 million if he makes the big league roster. His experience as both a starter and reliever could be beneficial to the Guardians' pitching staff. The team hopes Velasquez can contribute effectively as they prepare for the upcoming season.