Over the past few days, there have been conflicting reports about the Cleveland Guardians’ willingness to discuss relievers Emmanuel Clase and Cade Smith in trade scenarios.
They are currently 47-49, having won seven of their last eight games, and are on the brink of returning to the race for one of the AL Wild Card spots.
Their specific deadline strategy, however, remains a mystery and won’t be known until we get closer to July 31.
In the meantime, and according to MLB insider Jon Heyman, they are listening to potential packages for Clase and Smith.
“Guardians are listening on relievers, including stars Smith and Clasé. Prices are understandably high. They are seen as not too likely to trade either top pen guy, and with MLB’s easiest closing schedule, they aren’t even a certain seller,” Heyman posted on X.
Guardians are listening on relievers, including stars Smith and Clasé. Prices are understandably high. They are seen as not too likely to trade either top pen guy, and with MLB’s easiest closing schedule, they aren’t even a certain seller
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 19, 2025
Smith and Clase are the only pitchers (not relievers, pitchers) on the team with an fWAR over 1.0, with the former at 1.3 and the all-time franchise leader in saves at 1.2.
They are among the most widely respected bullpen pieces in baseball and could fetch a haul if Cleveland decides to deal them.
Smith, who struck out 103 batters last year as a reliever, is up to 61 this year with a 3.07 ERA.
Clase, on the other hand, overcame a slow start, and his ERA is down to a perfectly solid 2.86 in 44 innings.
They are both young, talented, cheap, and controllable, further elevating their already high trade value.
Could the Guardians flip one or both for offensive help?
At this point, as Heyman notes, it seems unlikely.
Never say never, though.
NEXT: Streaking Guardians Jump Back To Second Place In AL Central
