💥 BREAKING NEWS: A strategic Cubs decision unexpectedly opens the door for the Guardians to reunite with a bullpen standout fans still rave about ⚡.NL
For three seasons, Eli Morgan was a steady presence in the Cleveland Guardians’ bullpen – a reliable arm who thrived in the middle innings and earned the trust of manager Terry Francona. After beginning his career as a starter (remember that wild debut in near-hurricane conditions?), Morgan transitioned to the bullpen in 2022 and quickly carved out a role as one of Cleveland’s go-to relievers in high-leverage spots.
But his time in Cleveland ended quietly last offseason when he was traded to the Cubs for minor league outfielder Alfonsin Rosario. At the time, it felt like a low-risk move on both sides. Now, it’s looking like a clear win for the Guardians.
Rosario spent the 2025 season climbing the prospect ladder in Cleveland’s system, while Morgan struggled mightily in Chicago. His season was derailed almost before it started – just 7 1/3 innings pitched, a 12.27 ERA, and a trip to the injured list that kept him out of action after April 14. On Friday, the Cubs officially cut ties, choosing not to tender Morgan a contract ahead of the deadline and sending him into free agency.
That opens the door for a potential reunion in Cleveland – and it’s one that could make a lot of sense for both sides.
A Familiar Face Worth a Second Look
Let’s be clear: Morgan’s 2025 season was rough. Between the sky-high ERA and the elbow injury that limited him to just seven appearances, it’s understandable why teams might be hesitant. But Cleveland knows better than most what Morgan can bring when he’s right.
Just one year ago, in 2024, he posted a 1.93 ERA over 42 innings with the Guardians. That’s not a typo – sub-2.00 ERA in a season where he bounced between the majors and Triple-A Columbus and dealt with two separate IL stints (shoulder and elbow inflammation). Even in a stop-and-start year, Morgan managed to be effective when he was on the mound.
That version of Morgan – the one with the filthy changeup and pinpoint command – is still in there. And the Guardians might be the best team to help him find it again.
Why a Reunion Makes Sense
From a roster-building standpoint, bringing Morgan back on a minor league deal is a no-brainer. He’s familiar with the organization, the coaching staff knows how to work with him, and he still has a minor league option left – giving Cleveland flexibility if he needs time to ramp up.
There’s also the financial side. Morgan was projected to make just $1.1 million through arbitration in 2026, per MLB Trade Rumors. That’s a modest price for a reliever with a proven track record – especially one who, when healthy, has shown he can handle meaningful innings.
And while Morgan doesn’t light up the radar gun, his changeup remains a legitimate weapon. Opponents hit just .188 against it in 2024, and it’s been the pitch that’s kept him effective even when his fastball velocity hasn’t wowed anyone. Paired with his command, it’s what made him such a valuable piece in the Guardians’ bullpen puzzle.
The Bottom Line
Morgan’s recent injury history is a concern, no doubt. But if he’s healthy – or even trending in that direction – he’s exactly the kind of low-risk, high-upside arm that fits Cleveland’s pitching philosophy. This is a team that’s built a reputation for getting the most out of its arms, and Morgan already proved he can thrive in that environment.
The Guardians don’t need to make a splashy move here. They just need to make a smart one. And bringing Eli Morgan back into the fold could be exactly that.
