Guardians sign RHP Austin Peterson

Sentiment Analysis

The Guardians' signing of Austin Peterson has been met with skepticism from the start, and his immediate injury has only amplified concerns about Cleveland's depth strategy. Beat reporters are highlighting the troubling pattern of Peterson joining a string of injured pitchers in the organization, with multiple outlets questioning whether the front office adequately vetted his health status before committing. Fans on social media are frustrated by what appears to be another depth signing that provides zero immediate value, with many pointing to this as evidence of the organization's reluctance to spend on proven arms. This move reflects Cleveland's typical approach of betting on upside rather than reliability, but Peterson's six-to-eight week absence undermines even that modest gamble. The D- CVI grade captures both the questionable timing and the reality that injured players can't contribute to a team that desperately needs pitching depth right now — unless Peterson returns healthy and effective later this season, this signing will likely be remembered as a swing and miss at a critical juncture.