Hunter Gaddis Finding Enjoyment, Success In New Role With Guardians

Cleveland Guardians: Hunter Gaddis has yet to allow an earned run this season as a member of the bullpen.

Mar 31, 2024; Oakland, California, USA; Cleveland Guardians pitcher Hunter Gaddis (33) throws a pitch against the Oakland Athletics during the seventh inning at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports | Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports

Hunter Gaddis is in his third Major League season with the Cleveland Guardians. However, everything is different this time around, and no it’s not because he got a haircut. Instead of taking the mound as a starter, the Guardians are using Gaddis out of the bullpen as a hard-throwing reliever. 

The preparation that comes with being a starter versus being a relief pitcher is completely different. It’s something that Gaddis is still getting used to, but is enjoying every bit of it.

“It’s really just always being ready,” said Gaddis. “As a starter, you got four days off, so you really just get your work in an hour a day and you’re done. This time it’s, you get your work done, then you’ve got to be ready whenever you’re name is called … I enjoy it a lot. I like getting thrown in whenever my name is called. So far, I’m really enjoying it.”

Gaddis also mentioned that one of the biggest differences between being a starter and a reliever is pacing through an appearance. Now that he’s coming out of the bullpen, Gaddis can let the ball fly which appears to be beneficial game plan.

Mar 31, 2024; Oakland, California, USA; Cleveland Guardians pitcher Hunter Gaddis (33) throws a pitch against the Oakland Athletics during the seventh inning at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports | Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports

His current average fastball velocity is 96.2 mph, a significant increase from his 93.4 mph velocity from last season, per Baseball Savant.

The right-hander has pitched in four games this season and hasn't issued a run or a walk, given up four hits, and has struck out five batters. It may be a new role for Gaddis, but he’s proving that he can be a critical piece to Cleveland's pitching staff throughout the season.