The Toronto Blue Jays made a major move ahead of the MLB trade deadline by acquiring right-handed pitcher Shane Bieber from the Cleveland Guardians, according to multiple sources. In return, the Guardians will receive Khal Stephen, a promising young pitching prospect from Toronto’s farm system.
Bieber, a former American League Cy Young Award winner, hasn’t pitched in the majors since April 2024 after undergoing Tommy John surgery. However, he has recently resumed action with four rehab starts, including a strong outing at Double-A where he struck out seven batters over four innings while allowing just one run. The Blue Jays believe he’s ready to contribute in the second half of the season and into the playoffs.
Adding Bieber gives Toronto a deeper and more experienced starting rotation, which already includes Max Scherzer, Kevin Gausman, José BerrÃos, and Chris Bassitt. With the Blue Jays sitting atop the AL East, the move signals a clear intent to contend down the stretch. Bieber is under contract through a $16 million player option for 2026, with a $4 million buyout, offering the team flexibility moving forward. The Guardians, meanwhile, continue their focus on long-term development by adding a high-upside arm in Stephen as they retool their pitching staff.
