Emmanuel Clase, one of Major League Baseball’s elite closers, has maintained a remarkable career with a 1.84 ERA and an outstanding 0.61 ERA during last season. Currently controlled by the Cleveland Guardians through 2028, Clase has been regarded as a valuable trade asset, especially given his recent struggles pitching to a 3.38 ERA this year. Analysts suggest that while the Guardians rely heavily on their pitching staff, their weak offense could prompt them to entertain offers that enhance their batting lineup, making Clase a potential departure candidate.
Among trade discussions, a notable proposal emerged involving Clase heading to the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for the promising outfielder Andy Pages. This idea aims to bolster the Guardians’ offense by acquiring a young hitter with defensive strengths, while the Dodgers would gain a top-tier closer to solidify their bullpen.
Evaluating Andy Pages as a Trade Return for Clase
Andy Pages, a 24-year-old right-handed hitter, has impressed this season with a .842 OPS and elite defense in center field. Tommy Pecoraro of SB Nation identified Pages as the standout option in a potential trade for Clase, emphasizing his fit within Cleveland’s needs. However, the Dodgers may hesitate to part with Pages due to his growing role in their lineup and his compatibility alongside established players like Tommy Edman and Teoscar Hernandez.
With Michael Conforto struggling, Los Angeles could benefit significantly from a Pages-led outfield consisting of him, Edman, and Hernandez. Such a configuration would also allow the Dodgers to provide regular playing time to second baseman Hyeseong Kim, a three-time KBO Golden Glove winner. Pages has been productive this year, slashing .293/.329/.507 with 16 home runs, and demonstrating versatility as a defender across all outfield positions.
Given his performance, years of team control, and value to the Dodgers, it seems improbable that Los Angeles would agree to trade Pages for Clase despite the latter’s talent and contractual advantages.
Comments from Dodgers Leadership on Roster and Pitching Needs
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has addressed the team’s potential search for starting pitching, reflecting on the balance between reinforcing the rotation and maintaining roster depth. Joe Kelly, a veteran reliever for the Dodgers, has also expressed loyalty to the team amid speculation about MLB interest, signaling stability within the bullpen regardless of external trade chatter.
These elements highlight the Dodgers’ careful approach as they explore roster moves that could include pitching acquisitions like Clase, while weighing the cost of relinquishing young talent such as Pages.
Implications of a Clase-Pages Trade on Both Teams
A trade involving Emmanuel Clase and Andy Pages would carry significant ramifications. For the Guardians, gaining Pages could address offensive shortcomings and bring a youthful defender to the outfield. For the Dodgers, securing Clase could enhance their bullpen at the cost of limiting their emerging outfield options.
However, the likelihood of this deal hinges on the Dodgers’ willingness to part with Pages, whose current contributions and roster fit make him a vital component. Meanwhile, the Guardians may carefully consider whether selling from one of their pitching strengths is the best path to improved team balance.
As MLB teams enter the midseason trade season, negotiations around players like Clase and Pages will continue to shape roster strategies, with both franchises evaluating how best to address their immediate needs and long-term objectives.