After being released by the Rockies in 2004, he was signed to a Minor-League contract by Cleveland and was soon back in the Majors. He posted a 4.53 ERA and win-loss record of 3-5 and earned his first victory on July 29 against the Tigers, pitching 7 innings. On August 29, 2004, Elarton pitched the best game of his career, a two-hit complete game shutout, allowing only one walk and recording six strikeouts.