Allard bolsters Cleveland’s relief mix heading into Saturday’s doubleheader against the Red Sox at Progressive Field. The well-traveled 27-year-old former top prospect has made 76 appearances (42) starts in the big leagues dating back to 2018. He’ll most likely operate in long relief out of the Guardians’ bullpen and doesn’t offer any appeal for fantasy purposes.

All four will stay with the Guardians through the exhibition series, and then likely report to Triple-A Columbus. In order for any of the four to play for the Guardians in 2025, they’ll need to be added to the 40-man roster.

Allard pitched to a 5.00 ERA, 1.56 WHIP, and 23/8 K/BB ratio in 27 innings last year for the Phillies. He wasn’t much better in Triple-A with a 5.66 ERA in 90 2/3 innings. The left-hander figures to serve as organization depth for the Guardians.

All five wound up electing free agency and will test the open market rather than accept outright assignments to remain with the Phillies. The most notable name here is Allard, who made seven appearances (four starts) last year for Philadelphia. The trio of Marte, Ortiz and Tarnok figure to be able to latch on elsewhere as extra relief depth. Castro underwent surgery back in August to repair a torn ligament in his right thumb.