Cleveland Guardians & Giants Complete Trade

The Cleveland Guardians have bolstered their pitching depth by acquiring right-handed pitcher Spencer Howard from the San Francisco Giants in exchange for cash considerations. 

Howard, 27, will be optioned to Triple-A Columbus, providing the Guardians with additional options as they navigate the remainder of the season. To accommodate Howard on the 40-man roster, the Guardians designated right-hander Wes Parsons for assignment.

Spencer Howard was traded to Cleveland for cash considerations. He was DFA’d on last homestand.

— Alex Pavlovic (@PavlovicNBCS) July 5, 2024

Howard brings experience from his time with the Philadelphia Phillies, Texas Rangers, and San Francisco Giants. Over five MLB seasons, he has accumulated a 4-12 record with a 6.93 ERA and 130 strikeouts in 45 appearances, including 31 starts. 

This season, he has posted a 1-1 record with a 5.63 ERA in seven appearances, including two starts, with the Giants before being designated for assignment on June 30. Despite his struggles at the major league level, Howard has shown promise in Triple-A, where he recorded a 32.2% strikeout rate in ten starts, suggesting some bad luck influenced his 5.90 ERA.

Spencer Howard will report to the big league club in the coming days. Welcome to Cleveland! pic.twitter.com/jtdktU2weM

— Cleveland Baseball Insider (@CBI_FanNation) July 5, 2024

Originally selected by the Phillies in the second round of the 2017 MLB Draft, Howard made his debut in 2020 and was once considered a top prospect. 

Known for his ability to limit left-handed hitters to a .220 batting average this year, the Guardians hope Howard can regain his form and contribute to their pitching staff. 

With his impressive minor league strikeout rate and previous prospect status, Howard has the potential to be a valuable asset for Cleveland, likely in a long relief role.

Photo Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports