The Cleveland Guardians sit eight games behind the Detroit Tigers but still remain in striking distance of the AL Central title as the trade deadline approaches. Among the team’s top assets is closer Emmanuel Clase, who has drawn interest from other clubs. However, despite rumors connecting him to the Chicago Cubs, it appears unlikely Clase will be traded in the coming days, as the Guardians aim to hold onto their key bullpen piece.
Chicago Cubs Eye Pitching Help but Clase’s Departure Remains Doubtful
The Cubs have reportedly sought to bolster their pitching staff by acquiring both a starter and a reliable closer, making Clase a target given his strong season performance. Cleveland’s bullpen ace has been instrumental in the Guardians’ efforts to stay competitive, especially as Detroit’s recent struggles—going 2-8 in their last 10 games—have tightened the division race. Even with a recent slip losing three of four games, Cleveland built momentum after starting the second half with a 5-1 record, and Clase’s role is critical to maintaining that hope.
Currently, Clase has recorded 24 saves, ranking tied for fourth in the league and trailing only the leader, Robert Suárez, by six. His consistency and skill make him highly valuable, explaining why a team like Chicago is interested. Yet the Guardians remain firm in keeping him on their roster throughout the season.
Guardians’ Front Office Firm on Keeping Clase Amid Contract Security
Bob Nightengale reported,
“The Cleveland Guardians have no interest in trading reliever Cade Smith and would have to be overwhelmed by an offer to move closer Emmanuel Clase.”
—Bob Nightengale, Sports Journalist
The Guardians’ reluctance to part with Clase is bolstered by the terms of his contract, which includes $10 million club options for both 2027 and 2028. Such terms are considered advantageous in today’s pitching market, reflecting the team’s commitment to retaining him as a long-term asset. If Clase’s contract were expiring after 2025, the Guardians might be more open to trade discussions, but under the current conditions, an exchange seems improbable.
Potential Impact on Guardians Bullpen If Clase Were Traded
Trading Clase would significantly disrupt Cleveland’s bullpen dynamics. Aside from him, only three other bullpen members have managed saves so far this season, with Cade Smith leading that group at three saves. While Smith maintains a respectable 2-3 win-loss record and a 3.02 ERA, he does not yet possess Clase’s reliability or experience as a closer.
Given these factors, the statistics imply that although the Cubs might benefit from acquiring Clase, Cleveland’s bullpen strength would be compromised, weakening their postseason aspirations. Consequently, Chicago will likely need to direct their efforts elsewhere to meet their pitching needs before the trade deadline.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What tattoo does Emmanuel Clase have?
A. For half a year, Emmanuel Clase seemed unstoppable. He performed extraordinarily well. His skill was as impressive as the fresh lightning bolt tattoo he got on his neck.
Q. What ethnicity is Emmanuel Clase?
A. Emmanuel Clase, pronounced “closs-AY,” is a baseball player from the Dominican Republic. Born on March 18, 1998, he is a pitcher for the Cleveland Guardians in Major League Baseball (MLB). Before joining the Guardians, he played for the Texas Rangers and made his MLB debut with them in 2019.