Guardians Add Left-Handed Pitcher Matt Krook Off Waivers
The Cleveland Guardians continue to make savvy moves in search of affordable and overlooked pitching talent.
Known for their elite bullpen and promising starting rotation, the Guardians also possess a strong pipeline of minor league pitchers hungry for opportunities. Still, the organization understands that having quality pitching depth throughout the season is essential for long-term success.
With that philosophy in mind, the Guardians made a strategic addition on Thursday, claiming left-hander Matt Krook off waivers from the Oakland Athletics. Team insider Tim Stebbins reported the transaction, noting that Krook was optioned to Triple-A Columbus while pitcher Ben Lively was placed on the 60-day injured list to clear space on the 40-man roster.
Krook, originally a fourth-round pick in the 2016 MLB Draft, made his big-league debut with the New York Yankees in 2023 after previous stints with the Giants and Rays organizations. He later spent time with the Orioles in 2024 before joining the Athletics in 2025.
Though he began his career as a starting pitcher, Krook transitioned to a relief role in 2022. His pitching arsenal includes a sinker, slider, cutter, and changeup, showcasing the kind of versatility the Guardians often value in bullpen arms.
So far in 2025, Krook has pitched 14 innings at the Triple-A level for Oakland, posting an impressive 3.21 ERA and striking out 21 batters. However, his limited time in the majors this season — just 3.1 innings — resulted in a 5.40 ERA.
Krook’s biggest hurdle has been his control. Command issues have prevented him from securing a consistent spot in a big-league bullpen. But with Cleveland’s reputation for developing pitchers and maximizing their strengths, there’s hope that Krook can improve his command and tap into his full potential.
For now, Krook will continue refining his skills in Triple-A Columbus. If he can find consistency, he could become a valuable bullpen option for the Guardians down the stretch — and a low-risk, high-reward addition for a team that’s always looking to gain an edge.
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