CLEVELAND, OH – The Cleveland Guardians have announced the signing of free agent right-handed pitcher Paul Sewald to a Major League contract for the 2025 season, with a mutual option for 2026.
Sewald, 34, has achieved four consecutive double-digit save seasons since joining the Seattle Mariners in 2021. Over the last four seasons, he has compiled a 19-11 record with 81 saves and a 3.18 ERA across 234 relief appearances for the Mariners and Arizona Diamondbacks. During this period, he pitched 229.0 innings, allowed 155 hits, 81 earned runs, and struck out 299 batters, holding opponents to a .187 average and averaging 11.8 strikeouts per nine innings. Originally selected by the Mets in the 10th round of the 2012 MLB Draft, Sewald spent nine seasons in the Mets organization before moving to Seattle in 2021.
In 2023, Seattle traded Sewald to the Diamondbacks at the trade deadline. He played a pivotal role in Arizona’s run to the National League pennant, recording a club record six saves and tossing 8.0 scoreless innings during the NLWC, NLDS, and NLCS. Despite battling oblique and neck injuries in 2024, he achieved a career-high streak of 15.2 consecutive scoreless innings from May 9 to June 30 and converted 11 straight saves during the same span. Sewald finished the season with a 1.13 WHIP and a .232 average against in 42 relief outings, including 16 saves.
Beyond the field, Sewald and his wife, Molly, have made significant contributions to their communities in Las Vegas, Seattle, and Phoenix through their initiative, Sewald’s Strikeouts 4 Kids. Since its inception in 2022, the program has raised over $250,000 to support children and families, providing safe environments free from abuse and neglect. Paul and Molly dedicate their time to visiting Child Crisis Arizona and organizing supply drives, demonstrating their commitment to positive community impact. In recognition of his efforts, the Diamondbacks nominated Sewald for the Roberto Clemente Award in 2024.
Sewald is the fourth Major League free agent signed by Cleveland this offseason. To make room on the 40-man roster, the club designated right-handed pitcher Pedro Avila for assignment, maintaining the roster at 40 players.
