The Chicago Cubs are actively pursuing a trade for Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase, according to Francys Romero of BeisbolFR.com. Clase has been linked to teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers and Philadelphia Phillies recently, with the Cubs expressing interest since before the 2024 season. Securing Clase would provide a significant boost to the Cubs’ bullpen as they push for a playoff berth.
Clase’s Impressive Track Record Makes Him a Valuable Asset
Emmanuel Clase has established himself as one of Major League Baseball’s most effective closers over the past few years. Since 2021, Clase has recorded 180 saves for Cleveland, the highest total in the majors during that period, while maintaining a 1.77 earned run average. His strikeout rate of 24.9% is slightly above average for a closer, but he excels at limiting walks, with a low 4.7% walk rate, and induces a high percentage of ground balls at 58.4%, contributing to his dominance on the mound.
Contract Situation Adds Both Appeal and Complexity
Clase’s contract enhances his value for the Cubs, featuring a $4.5 million salary this year and $6 million in 2025, followed by two $13 million option years with $2 million buyouts. Compared to top closers like Edwin Díaz and Josh Hader, who have secured average annual salaries near $20 million, Clase’s current deal offers plenty of surplus value. However, this affordability also makes him a critical asset for the Guardians, a team operating with a relatively low payroll.
Guardians’ Position Amid Playoff Contention Influences Clase’s Availability
While Cleveland is open to offers, they are not actively pushing to trade Clase at this moment. The Guardians recently put together a four-game winning streak, improving their record to 51-50 and remaining only 2.5 games out of a playoff spot. Their schedule prior to the trade deadline is relatively manageable, with matchups against the Baltimore Orioles, Kansas City Royals, and Colorado Rockies coming up. This situation leaves room for Cleveland to either sell pieces or hold onto Clase as they aim to remain competitive.
The Guardians often balance their roster decisions carefully, weighing both short-term success and future flexibility. They have strong bullpen depth, including reliever Cade Smith, which gives them options when considering the potential benefits of trading Clase to improve other roster areas. Still, they are unlikely to move Clase unless presented with an offer they find truly compelling.
Why the Cubs Are Eager to Add Clase
For Chicago, acquiring Clase would be a major step forward in their pursuit of postseason success. Currently one of baseball’s top teams, the Cubs are clearly buyers at the trade deadline. Elite relievers become even more valuable in the playoffs, where rest days can allow shutdown arms to influence multiple games. Chicago’s bullpen collectively carries a 3.78 ERA, ranking 10th in the majors, with Daniel Palencia performing well as the current closer.
Bringing Clase into the mix and shifting Palencia down the pecking order would solidify and deepen the Cubs’ relief corps, improving the quality of their late-inning pitching. This kind of upgrade could prove vital during a tense playoff run.
Potential Trade Considerations and Player Assets
Acquiring Clase would require the Cubs to give up notable prospects or players to match Cleveland’s valuation. Chicago demonstrated a willingness to commit significant assets in their offseason trade for Kyle Tucker, indicating they might remain aggressive in bolstering their roster. Among their farm system talents, outfield prospects Owen Caissie and Kevin Alcántara could be of interest to Cleveland, who continue to seek improvements in that area.
The Cubs face their own questions regarding the outfield, as Kyle Tucker approaches free agency and players like Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki are headed for free agency after 2026. Determining which prospects to part with will be a difficult balancing act, but the potential rewards from adding Clase’s bullpen dominance may justify the price.
Implications for the Cubs’ Playoff Aspirations
Should the Cubs succeed in securing Emmanuel Clase, they would significantly enhance their bullpen’s effectiveness, a critical component in postseason baseball. Clase’s rare combination of elite performance, affordable contract, and experience in high-pressure situations makes him a coveted piece. His arrival could be decisive in Chicago’s quest to return to the playoffs and contend for a championship.
Meanwhile, the Guardians remain cautious but open, waiting for proposals that fit their long-term strategy while navigating a competitive stretch of the season. The unfolding trade talks involving Clase will be a key storyline leading up to the deadline, with important consequences for both teams’ futures.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What tattoo does Emmanuel Clase have?
A. For half a year, Emmanuel Clase was almost unbeatable. He performed exceptionally well. He was as thrilling as the fresh lightning bolt tattoo on his neck.