Paul Sewald has signed a one-year, $7 million contract with the Cleveland Guardians, providing a valuable setup option for closer Emmanuel Clase. This deal includes a $1 million signing bonus and a base salary of $5 million, with additional performance incentives based on relief appearances. Sewald, 34, is an eight-year veteran with a total of 84 saves in his MLB career and joins the Guardians following a season with the Arizona Diamondbacks, where he recorded a 4.31 ERA and 16 saves. His tenure in Arizona was marred by injuries, including an oblique strain and neck discomfort, impacting his performance.

To accommodate Sewald on the roster, the Guardians designated right-hander Pedro Avila for assignment. Avila had a solid campaign with a 3.25 ERA and a 5-1 record last season. Sewald's addition strengthens Cleveland's bullpen, especially after losing relievers Eli Morgan and Nick Sandlin to trades this winter, underscoring the team's efforts to bolster its pitching staff heading into the new season.