The Cleveland Guardians have a big decision to make.
They could stand pat and not make any moves at the trade deadline, as it seems like the team is finally getting back on track and there could be some reinforcements on the way.
Pitchers John Means and Shane Bieber will likely make their season debuts sooner rather than later, and hitting prospects C.J. Kayfus or Chase DeLauter could make their way to the majors.
Nevertheless, the Guardians could look to move on from some of their veterans.
According to Russell Dorsey of Yahoo Sports, reliever Emmanuel Clase could be available, not only because of his slow start to the season, but also because the Guardians have his heir apparent in Cade Smith.
“Clase has been the best closer in baseball since 2021, recording the most saves in that span. Clase had one of the best seasons we’ve ever seen from a reliever in 2024, but in the postseason, for the first time in a long time, he didn’t look dominant. Fortunately, Clase has regained his elite ability this year, with a 1.17 ERA since May 1. Will Cleveland truly be a deadline seller? The Guardians have a closer in waiting in Cade Smith and could expedite their return to AL Central relevance if they decide to move their franchise leader in saves,” Dorsey wrote.
Smith has been sharp and looks like someone who can handle a bigger role if given an opportunity.
Then again, it’s not like the Guardians need to move Clase right now.
He will still be under club control this offseason, and there should also be more hitters available then.
There’s little to no financial incentive to trade Clase before the deadline, so there’s no need to make any rash decisions.
Of course, that could change if someone comes up with an offer that’s just too good to turn down.
But if that’s not the case, the Guardians should hold onto their star closer for a little longer.
NEXT: Analyst Names Guardians' 'Top Priority' Ahead Of Trade Deadline
