CLEVELAND, Ohio — The next project for the Guardians’ vaunted pitching factory is a hard-throwing “paisan” who features a rare breaking pitch in his arsenal.
Cleveland announced on Saturday the club has signed right-hander Ettore Giulianelli to a minor league contract for 2026, adding the intriguing Italian prospect whose screwball made waves on social media in 2024.
Giulianelli, a 22-year-old from Rimini, Italy, will report to minor league camp in late February. The 6-foot-3 reliever has drawn attention for his unique pitch profile, particularly his screwball that generated internet buzz when he showcased it during a Florida Coast League game.
Giulianelli’s screwball, a pitch that has become less commonly utilized by major league pitchers in recent years, is especially effective due to his high release point. It plays off his cutter and slider to baffle hitters, who have trouble laying off the pitch. His fastball, meanwhile, has reportedly reached 98 mph, making him a hard-throwing reliever with high strikeout potential.
Giulianelli spent four seasons in the Cardinals’ minor league system after signing at age 16 following an MLB scouting showcase in Europe that featured 17 Italian players. He also pitched for Italy’s under-23 national team last season.
In 37 appearances over his first three pro seasons for the Cardinals’ rookie-level Florida Complex League team, Giulianelli logged 43 innings while striking out 63 batters. However, command issues have plagued his development, as he walked 45 batters during that span.
In 2024 at Low-A Palm Beach, he posted a 3.96 ERA across 20 appearances and 25 innings.