SF Giants Explore Two-Time All-Star Before Re-Signing with Cleveland
Trevor Williams has opened up about his decision to re-sign with the Washington Nationals, giving insight into his thought process during the offseason. However, in the same breath, the San Francisco Giants have been linked to several potential pitching targets, including 2021 Cy Young winner Corbin Burnes. Alongside their pursuit of Burnes, it was recently reported by Alex Pavlovic of NBC Sports Bay Area that the Giants also showed interest in another standout pitcher: two-time All-Star Shane Bieber. According to Pavlovic, the Giants reached out to Bieber before he ultimately re-signed with the Cleveland Guardians.
During a recent episode of the Giants Talk Podcast, Pavlovic, together with co-host Cole Kuiper, discussed the Giants’ ongoing pursuit of a top-tier starter like Burnes. Pavlovic hinted that the team could still be looking to add another arm to their rotation, either in the form of Burnes or another key pitcher, and mentioned their interest in Bieber as part of this strategy.
Bieber, a seasoned seven-year veteran, agreed to return to Cleveland on a one-year, $10 million contract with an option for the 2026 season. The right-handed pitcher had a setback last season, making only two starts before needing Tommy John surgery. However, by the time Opening Day arrives, Bieber will be a full year removed from the procedure, a time when pitchers typically start ramping up their activities again.
This was not the first instance of the Giants showing interest in Bieber. In fact, the team reportedly explored a trade for him prior to the 2023 trade deadline, but the veteran starter remained with Cleveland. If he performs well in 2025, he could exercise his opt-out clause and re-enter free agency. Given Bieber’s Southern California roots, many California-based teams are expected to pursue him, making the Giants one of several potential suitors.
Bieber’s career statistics are impressive, with a 3.22 ERA, 3.09 FIP, 1.11 WHIP, and an average of 10.2 strikeouts per nine innings since his MLB debut in 2018. His accolades include two All-Star appearances and a Cy Young award in 2020. Given his track record, Bieber would have been a valuable addition to the Giants’ rotation, provided he recovers well from surgery.
The Giants’ rotation in 2024 ranked in the middle of the pack with a 4.22 ERA, indicating room for improvement. With the departure of Blake Snell, the team hopes to improve its pitching staff, particularly with young arms like Hayden Birdsong and Kyle Harrison showing promise. Additionally, pitchers like Landen Roupp and Carson Whisenhunt had strong finishes to their seasons, offering optimism for the future. Regardless of who else the Giants may add, it’s clear that their young pitchers will play a crucial role in the team’s success in the coming years.