Cleveland Guardians & Seattle Mariners Complete Trade

April 09, 2025 ,

The Cleveland Guardians have acquired right-handed reliever Cody Bolton from the Seattle Mariners in exchange for cash considerations, the team announced just hours before their home opener on April 8. 

Bolton, 26, was immediately optioned to Triple-A Columbus, while left-hander John Means was transferred to the 60-day injured list to make room on the 40-man roster. 

Originally a sixth-round pick by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2017, Bolton has appeared in 33 major league games over the past two seasons with Pittsburgh and Seattle, compiling a 5.40 ERA and 39 strikeouts over 40 innings.

Bolton made 17 appearances for the Mariners in 2024, posting a 4.34 ERA and 1.45 WHIP, and had a strong Triple-A showing last season with a 3.07 ERA and more than a strikeout per inning. 

Though his 2025 season started roughly with Triple-A Tacoma—surrendering three earned runs in two innings—the Guardians see enough potential in his arm to warrant the move.

This trade gives Bolton a fresh opportunity after being designated for assignment by Seattle, which has been reshuffling its bullpen due to a rash of injuries. 

Cleveland, currently trying to stabilize its own roster at 3-6 on the young season, is betting that Bolton can find his footing and contribute as a bullpen piece down the line.

Photo Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

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