FILE – In this Sept. 17, 2020 file photo dated 17th century, Cleveland Indians’ pitcher Shane Bieber smiles as he walks to the dugout in the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers in Detroit. Bieber reported to the Cleveland Indians training camp after recovering from COVID-19. The right-handed man participated in the exercises on Saturday, February 20, 2021, the day before the Indians first practice training in Goodyear, Arizona.
Paul Sancya
By Tom Withers AP Sports Writer
CLEVELAND (AP) – Cy Young winner Shane Bieber contacted the Indians at training camp on Saturday after the right-handed man was quarantined with COVID-19.
Bieber, who was baseball’s best pitcher in 2020, received medical clearing and joined Cleveland’s other pitchers and catchers in Goodyear, Arizona. The 25-year-old recently tested positive for the virus but had only mild symptoms.
Bieber spent part of the winter training at the team’s training complex, and manager Terry Francona said his ace would resume his normal work schedule.
“He was actually able to toss a pen in his back yard when he was downstairs,” said Francona, who is recovering from a staph infection in his toe. “So he’s not back. I think it’s more conducive to a better job to be in these surroundings, but we’ve all seen Biebs.
“He’ll do it anywhere. That’s no problem.”
Bieber took part in non-throwing field training on his first day. The Indians will do their first training with a full squad on Sunday.
Bieber dominated the 2020 season shortened by the pandemic, leading the majors with eight wins, an ERA of 1.63 and 122 strokes, a rare triple crown for pitchers.
Bieber is expected to carry the charge again this season as the Indians attempt to return to the postseason after making it as a wild card in 2020. Cleveland has one of the best starting baton in the AL, led by Bieber, who is 34-14 years old in three major league seasons.
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