7 former Cleveland Guardians who are still free agents

7. Scott Barlow - Relief Pitcher

Before the 2024 season, the Cleveland Guardians traded the previously mentioned Enyel De Los Santos to the San Diego Padres in exchange for veteran relief pitcher Scott Barlow.

The trade made a ton of sense at the time, as there were some concerns about the viability of closer Emmanuel Clase, considering his struggles adjusting to the rules meant to improve the pace of play. If he were to struggle again, having someone to step into closing duties if needed was necessary, and Barlow would have been a prime candidate to do so. Luckily, Clase turned in an excellent season, and the Guardians did not have to turn to anyone else to close out games.

Barlow was fine but nothing spectacular for the Guardians in 2024, finishing with a 4.25 ERA, 1.364 WHIP, and 11.1 strikeouts per nine innings in 63 appearances. Cleveland had a loaded bullpen in 2024, and Barlow was eventually deemed to be expendable, with the Guardians designating him for assignment and subsequently releasing him in mid-September.

There should be a market for the 32-year-old reliever, as he is still capable of being a major league reliever, and with the general volatility of relievers, a team will sign him to a contract before the 2025 season begins to ensure they have a group capable of backing up their starting staff when called upon.