When you hear a baseball team talk about “light at the end of the tunnel,” it usually means a player is finally seeing the finish line after a long rehab road. That’s exactly the vibe in Cleveland this week. Manager Stephen Vogt announced that three of the Guardians’ most valuable arms—Shane Bieber, David Fry and Trevor Stephan—are projected to begin game‑like activity in May.
All three have been sidelined by elbow injuries that required major surgery. Bieber, the 2020 Cy Young winner, went under the knife for Tommy John in April after just two starts. Stephan missed the entire 2024 season following a right UCL reconstruction that wrapped up in March. Fry, who played through a nagging elbow ache for most of last year, finally had a revision surgery in November, even after earning his first All‑Star nod.
According to Vogt, the next step for each pitcher will be a series of controlled game activities at the Guardians’ spring‑training complex in Arizona. "We can't just throw them right into a minor‑league rehab assignment," Vogt explained, "but we should have a formal big medical update this week." The plan is to start with live batting practice, letting the arms face actual hitters for the first time since their surgeries.
Pitching coach Carl Willis added that both Bieber and Stephan have been cleared for those live‑BP sessions. "They're doing great," he said, "and they feel ready for that step. We're excited about it." The coaching staff will monitor velocity, command and any lingering soreness, adjusting the intensity day by day.
Fry’s timeline looks a little different. While he also will join live‑BP, the team expects him to start a full‑game progression in early May. That means a measured series of simulated innings, followed by a short stint in a minor‑league game if everything checks out. Fry’s versatility—he can handle the outfield, first base and even catch in a pinch—makes his timeline especially interesting for roster construction.
If the rehab plans go smoothly, the impact on Cleveland’s roster could be huge. Bieber’s return would instantly upgrade the starting rotation, giving Vogt a dependable third or fourth starter who can pitch deep into games. Stephan would bolster a bullpen that struggled with depth after his absence, providing a high‑leverage arm for late‑inning situations.
Fry adds a different kind of value. His ability to play multiple positions gives Vogv flexibility to shuffle lineups without sacrificing defense. That kind of roster fluidity is rare in today’s game, where most teams lock players into single roles.
There’s also a psychological boost. Watching teammates battle through painful rehab and make strides can lift the whole clubhouse. The Guardians have been fighting for playoff positioning, and having three of their biggest pieces back could be the spark they need.
Of course, the team is being cautious. After the live‑BP work, each pitcher will likely face a short rehab assignment with a minor‑league affiliate, ensuring they’re truly game‑ready before a full‑time return. Vogt emphasized that the timeline is “day‑to‑day,” and any setback could push things back a few weeks.Fans should keep an eye on the Guardians’ official updates this week for exact dates and any additional medical notes. The general consensus among the coaching staff is optimism, but they’re also prepared to take the extra time if it means a healthier, more effective return.
In short, May could bring a dramatic shift for Cleveland. Whether it’s Bieber anchoring the rotation, Stephan solidifying the bullpen, or Fry adding depth across the field, the Guardians have a clear path to strengthen their roster. All eyes will be on Arizona as the three pitchers take their first swings at live hitters after months of rehab.
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