The past week has been quite eventful for starting pitcher Xzavion Curry. The Cleveland Guardians initially optioned Curry to Triple-A Columbus on Sunday, but just two days later, they designated him for assignment in hopes that he would clear waivers and return to the organization. However, things didn’t go as planned for Cleveland, as Curry was claimed off waivers by the Miami Marlins, meaning the Guardians lost a valuable depth piece from their pitching staff.
Cleveland’s decision to designate Curry for assignment was somewhat surprising. The team needed to make room on the 40-man roster to add pitcher Anthony Gose, and Curry’s recent struggles likely contributed to the decision. He posted a 5.84 ERA over 24.2 innings with the Guardians in 2024, which didn’t help his case. Despite his underwhelming performance this season, Curry’s departure could have a significant impact on Cleveland, especially given the current state of their pitching staff.
Curry, who is best suited as a backend rotation option, isn’t far removed from a more promising 2023 season, where he recorded a 4.07 ERA over 95 innings. Although he doesn’t have overwhelming upside, his presence could have been valuable for the Guardians, particularly as they navigate through a period of pitching uncertainty. Tanner Bibee is dealing with minor injuries (though he’s set to start on Sunday), Logan Allen and Triston McKenzie are currently in Triple-A, and veteran Carlos Carrasco has just been placed on the injured list.
The Guardians’ decision not to add a more reliable starting pitcher before the trade deadline, instead securing only the injury-prone Alex Cobb, might come back to haunt them. While losing Curry might seem like a minor setback now, it could prove costly if more injuries affect their already thin pitching staff.
