Armstrong, Stephan now free agents after Guards decline ’27 options

The Cleveland Guardians declined Shawn Armstrong's mutual option and Trevor Stephan's club option for 2027, making both pitchers free agents. Armstrong's option was priced at $8 million with a $1.5 million buyout, while Stephan's was $7.25 million with a $1.25 million buyout. Concurrently, the team selected infielder Milan Tolentino's contract from Triple-A Columbus, leaving the 40-man roster at 36 players.

Armstrong posted a 4.58 ERA across 41 regular-season appearances under manager Stephen Vogt before delivering a 1.04 postseason ERA. Stephan has missed the past three MLB seasons following 2024 Tommy John surgery and struggled in the Minors in 2026.