The Cleveland Guardians faced significant changes this offseason with fan-favorites Andres Gimenez and Josh Naylor departing, raising questions about the team's future. As they navigate the roster, one analyst, Kerry Miller from Bleacher Report, warns that the Guardians' signing of Paul Sewald could backfire as soon as 2025, potentially upsetting the delicate balance within their bullpen. Miller points out that Sewald's projected salary might disrupt the chemistry among established relievers, particularly closer Emmanuel Clase. The Guardians risk undermining the success of Cade Smith, Hunter Gaddis, and Tim Herrin, who flourished last season with sub-2.00 ERAs.

Miller's concerns revolve around how Sewald's presence might force a reallocation of innings, either displacing deserving relievers or assigning Sewald to a less impactful role after a costly investment. However, he acknowledges that the Guardians might be adding Sewald to alleviate the burden on an already taxed bullpen, which ranked fourth in the American League for innings pitched. This acquisition is seen not as a replacement for existing talent but rather as a strategic move to bolster a fatigued pitching staff.