Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave as part of Major League Baseball‘s ongoing sports betting investigation, sources confirmed on July 28, 2025. Clase becomes the second pitcher from the Guardians to be sidelined in connection with the probe, joining teammate Luis Ortiz. This development occurs amid concerns over Clase’s availability for the remainder of the season, leaving the Guardians to rely on other bullpen options.
“BREAKING: Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave as part of MLB’s sports-betting investigation, sources tell ESPN. Clase is the second Guardians pitcher on leave tied to the investigation, joining right-hander Luis Ortiz.” —Jeff Passan, Baseball Insider
Impact of Clase’s Absence on Fantasy Baseball and Save Chances
The suspension or leave for Clase delivers a significant blow to fantasy baseball managers counting on him for saves. His uncertain timeline creates opportunities for emerging players on the Guardians’ roster, most notably reliever Cade Smith. In leagues with quick transaction turnover, Smith’s addition is anticipated to be one of the most sought-after moves. Even formats with weekly roster changes and free agent bidding are expected to experience a shift in the save category, with some teams benefiting from Clase’s loss while others endure setbacks.
Smith established himself last season as a reliable bullpen asset for the Guardians, finishing with standout numbers including a 6-1 record, a 1.91 ERA, 0.90 WHIP, and 103 strikeouts across 75.1 innings. This year, he has maintained solid performance, posting a 3.02 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, and accruing 65 strikeouts in 44.2 innings. However, his statistics have been impacted by two particularly poor outings where he allowed eight runs and 10 baserunners in a single inning. Despite these setbacks, Smith’s fastball velocity has reached a career-high average of 96.5 mph, and his reliance on the split-finger pitch remains a key weapon, complemented by fewer slider pitches than in previous seasons.
Given Clase’s expected absence until at least August 31, fantasy managers should consider releasing Clase from their rosters and adding Smith immediately wherever possible. While Clase’s name carries value and many hope for his eventual return, the ongoing investigation and resulting leave make his availability this season highly uncertain.
Understanding the Broader Context of MLB’s Sports Betting Scandal
The current investigation highlights deeper issues surrounding sports betting’s influence in professional baseball. MLB appears to be addressing two major concerns: the integrity of the games and the role of sportsbooks in enabling bets with potential for undue external leverage on players. The line between a legitimate wager and a scandal raises difficult questions, such as the financial threshold that turns betting from harmless pastime into a game-altering risk.
Many major league players hail from backgrounds where fast money holds great appeal, sometimes making them vulnerable to outside influences. This reality begs the question of whether MLB’s crackdown is an effort to protect the game’s purity or an attempt to shield sportsbooks that may have accepted questionable bets. Additionally, if players succumb to pressure from powerful external parties, MLB’s disciplinary actions might be punishing victims twice: once for potential influence and again through the public fallout.
This perspective remains speculative yet invites a broader discussion on the fairness and complexity of the league’s approach to gambling-related infractions.
Cade Smith’s Rising Role Amid Guardians’ Bullpen Uncertainty
Cade Smith is positioned to become a critical figure in the Cleveland bullpen following Clase’s leave. His ability to handle high-leverage save situations offers the Guardians a valuable option to maintain stability in their late innings. Smith’s mix of a powerful fastball and a deceptive split-finger pitch enhances his effectiveness, making him a strong candidate to inherit save opportunities. His past success and recent performance suggest he can manage the added pressure, even as the team adjusts to the absence of their established closer.
Fantasy baseball managers targeting the save category should act swiftly to acquire Smith, as he is likely to accumulate saves for the remainder of the season. His improved velocity and refined pitching arsenal also indicate a potential upside beyond simply filling Clase’s role.
Significance for the Guardians and Fantasy Baseball Landscape
The leave of Emmanuel Clase amid the betting scandal has a domino effect on both the Cleveland Guardians’ bullpen strategy and fantasy baseball dynamics. With Clase sidelined indefinitely, the Guardians must rely heavily on Cade Smith and other relievers to preserve leads late in games. This situation tests the depth of Cleveland’s pitching staff and its ability to withstand the pressures of the playoff race.
For fantasy players, this development is a critical turning point. The sudden availability of save opportunities for Cade Smith reshapes bullpen values across leagues and creates an urgent decision for managers seeking to optimize their rosters. With Clase’s future uncertain, the likelihood of Smith consolidating the closer role enhances his value significantly.
Looking ahead, the resolution of the betting investigation will be pivotal. It will determine not only Clase’s return timeline but also potentially influence MLB’s policies regarding player conduct and gambling. Meanwhile, the Guardians and their fans await clarity as the team adapts to a rapidly evolving bullpen situation.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Cade Smith’s religion?
A. Smith has a personal life that includes being married to Elizabeth, who is from the United States. He follows the Christian faith.