Cleveland Guardians release veteran bullpen arm following recent struggles

When it comes to surprising developments, this is one that would not qualify. After designating veteran relief pitcher Scott Barlow for assignment earlier this week, the Cleveland Guardians have released him, making him a free agent.

The Guardians took a chance on Barlow this past offseason, acquiring him in a trade with the San Diego Padres in exchange for fellow reliever Enyel De Los Santos. This was a move made with the intention of strengthening their bullpen by bringing in someone with a lengthy, proven track record to strengthen their pitching staff. Additionally, having someone who has experience in finishing games might come in hand should the Guardians be in a position to need someone besides Emmanuel Clase for one reason or another.

At first, Barlow's addition to the bullpen was a beneficial one. Striking out more than 32% of batters while sporting an ERA just over 3..50 leading up to All-Star Break. Unfortunately, Barlow would lose his effectiveness after the break, seeing his ERA skyrocket to 5.94 and his strikeout frequency plummet to just below 19%. It became clear rather quickly that Barlow was not long for this team, and it was only a matter of time before the Guardians decided to part ways.

Normally, removing one of the most frequently used relievers from the equation would be a scenario easily classified as far from ideal. However, that is not factoring in Barlow's decline in effectiveness, as well as the performances they have received from Hunter Gaddis and rookie Cade Smith. The duo of Gaddis and Smith have taken on the high-leverage innings and situations once thought to belong to Barlow, allowing Cleveland to make a move that is in the best interest of the ballclub. The Guardians will be able to manage just fine with Barlow now out of the mix as they lean on their younger bullpen arms to carry them into and through the postseason.