Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase had a historic 2024.
He became the franchise leader in saves and broke multiple records, posting a 0.61 ERA in 74.1 frames, with 47 saves.
The postseason, however, didn’t treat him nicely.
The right-hander returned a 9.00 ERA in the playoffs, in eight innings of work.
His stuff didn’t look quite right and his command was off, which resulted in a few horrendous collapses.
Talking to the media this week, Guardians manager Stephen Vogt expressed full confidence in his closer heading into the offseason.
“Emmanuel Clase was the best closer in baseball during the Guardians 162-game regular season, but he had 3 really tough playoff outings that have left a lingering taste for Cleveland fans. Here’s what Stephen Vogt said of Clase’s season and his demeanor as he goes into the offseason,” play-by-play announcer Brendan Gulick posted on X.
Emmanuel Clase was the best closer in baseball during the Guardians 162-game regular season, but he had 3 really tough playoff outings that have left a lingering taste for Cleveland fans.
Here's what Stephen Vogt said of Clase's season and his demeanor as he goes into the… pic.twitter.com/fnKzBO5p3A
— Brendan Gulick (@brendangulick22) October 23, 2024
Vogt said that Clase “had a phenomenal season. We couldn’t have asked for anything more. His demeanor never changed, his attitude never shook. Of course, the results weren’t there but we still wanted him in the ninth inning.”
“I know Emmanuel very well and I have a feeling that’s going to fuel his off-season,” Vogt explained.
Maybe if Clase showed his regular season form in October, the Guardians could have extended the AL Championship Series against the New York Yankees.
That’s water under the bridge now, and it’s time to focus on next season and having Clase in the right state of mind.
Vogt isn’t worried about that and has full confidence that his ninth-inning star will be effective whenever his number is called.
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