Bieber Shines in Rehab; Guardians Update Injuries

Cleveland Guardians pitcher Shane Bieber successfully completed a rehab start in the Arizona Complex League, striking out five over two scoreless innings after recovering from a minor elbow setback following April 2024 Tommy John surgery. Bieber had experienced soreness after a rehab appearance on May 31, prompting a pause in his recovery, but has since resumed pitching and reported positive progress in recent bullpen sessions and simulated games. He is expected to require several more minor league rehab starts before being considered for activation from the 60-day injured list, with a potential return to the Guardians' rotation projected for early or mid-August. Bieber's anticipated return could significantly strengthen Cleveland's pitching staff as the team pursues postseason contention. Additionally, Trevor Stephan had a rough rehab outing, Gabriel Arias is close to returning to base running, and top outfield prospect Chase DeLauter is being evaluated for wrist soreness. The Guardians continue to monitor multiple players' recoveries as the season progresses.