The Cleveland Guardians activated right-hander Hunter Gaddis from the 15-day injured list and outfielder George Valera from the 10-day injured list on Monday before their series opener against the St. Louis Cardinals. To make room, the team optioned outfielder CJ Kayfus to Triple-A Columbus and designated left-hander Kolby Allard for assignment. The moves bolster the bullpen and lineup early in the season.
In St. Louis, the Guardians welcomed back two key players ahead of their matchup with the Cardinals. Gaddis, who missed time due to a right forearm strain, completed a five-appearance rehab assignment before returning. He has been one of Cleveland's reliable relievers over the past two seasons and expressed readiness to contribute immediately. “It’s a process,” Gaddis said. “You want to be out there with the team, but you’ve got to trust it. Now that I’m back, I feel ready to go.” Manager Stephen Vogt likened the return to an Opening Day for Gaddis, adding, “When it’s his turn to pitch, he’ll pitch.” The activation provides relief to a taxed bullpen early in the season. Valera, 25, recovered from a left calf strain through a rehab stint focused on rhythm and durability. “I feel pretty good,” he said. “Just working hard, trusting my process and getting my body ready to play every day.” Vogt praised Valera's power potential and ability to play both corner outfield positions, noting the quality of his at-bats. Kayfus, who played in nine games for Cleveland, heads to Triple-A for consistent at-bats. Allard's designation reduced the 40-man roster to 39 players as the Guardians adjust their pitching staff.
