GOODYEAR, Ariz. (AP) — The finalized contract between right-hander Jakob Junis and the Cleveland Guardians for $4.5 million over one year was completed on Sunday. At the age of 32, Junis opted out of his share of an $8 million mutual option with Cincinnati back in November, choosing instead to accept a $3 million buyout. His stint with the Reds began in July when he was acquired in a trade that saw Frankie Montas heading to the Brewers. Junis showcased a solid performance during his time with Cincinnati, boasting a 2.85 ERA in five starts and nine relief appearances. He finished the season strongly with a 4-0 record and a 2.69 ERA in six starts and 18 relief outings.
Over his eight seasons in the MLB with Kansas City, San Francisco, Milwaukee, and Cincinnati, Junis has accumulated a record of 42-45 with a 4.48 ERA across 192 games, including 116 starts. The Guardians defied expectations last season by making a strong start that propelled them to 92 wins and securing the AL Central title before progressing to the AL Championship Series.
In other recent roster moves, the Guardians added Gold Glove first baseman Carlos Santana on a one-year, $12 million deal after trading Josh Naylor to Arizona. They also bolstered their bullpen by signing reliever Paul Sewald to a $7 million, one-year contract, joining a relief corps led by closer Emmanuel Clase. Left-hander Sam Hentges has been placed on the 60-day injured list following surgery on September 18 by Dr. Neal ElAttrache, head team physician for the Los Angeles Dodgers, to address issues with his left shoulder’s capsule and labrum. The estimated recovery time for Hentges is 12 to 14 months.
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