The Cleveland Guardians are once again on the hunt for pitching talent, making a move that might not dominate headlines but could prove significant down the line. This week, they signed 25-year-old right-hander Wes Burton, a name to keep an eye on if you're following the development of future pitching stars.
Burton's journey to the Guardians is a testament to his perseverance and talent. He showcased his skills in the highly competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC) with the Ole Miss Rebels from 2020 to 2022.
His baseball odyssey didn't stop there; he also made stops in the Appalachian League in 2022, the prestigious Cape Cod League, and the Big Ten Conference with the Indiana Hoosiers in 2023. Most recently, he played at Tulane in 2025 and left a mark in the MLB Draft League, posting a stellar 1.54 ERA over 11.2 innings while racking up an impressive 30 strikeouts.
Burton expressed his excitement about joining the Guardians on social media, describing it as a childhood dream come true. His enthusiasm is palpable, and it's clear he's ready to embrace the opportunity to play in affiliated ball.
Standing tall at 6-foot-8 and weighing 230 pounds, Burton is an imposing presence on the mound. His size allows him to generate exceptional extension on his pitches, a trait that's increasingly valued in today's game.
According to Guardians Prospective, Burton features a three-pitch arsenal. His fastball sits in the low 90s and can reach up to 95 mph, complemented by a changeup and a curveball.
While Burton might not be the most talked-about acquisition of the offseason, the Guardians have a reputation for developing young pitchers. With their resources and expertise, they might just uncover a hidden gem in Burton.
However, it's important to note that he's not expected to make an immediate impact in the majors. The Guardians plan to ease him into professional baseball, allowing him time to grow and adapt.
Burton represents a classic "lotto ticket" signing-one with the potential for a big payoff if everything falls into place. For now, fans and analysts alike will be watching his progress closely, hoping to see this promising arm develop into something special.