Not many people seemed to like the Cleveland Guardians’ chances this season.
Unsurprisingly, that was even more evident once they lost Emmanuel Clase for the year.
With the superstar closer being placed on administrative leave over his alleged involvement in a sports gambling scandal, it was hard to believe Stephen Vogt’s team was going to be able to overcome that.
Enter Cade Smith.
The young reliever, who was already having a great year, took a big step forward and proved that he could be trusted to handle closer duties for years to come.
That’s even more evident if you take a look at some of the advanced metrics.
As pointed out by Ray Ballstein on X, Smith led all pitchers in the league in Whiff percentage with his four-seam fastball (32.2 percent).
2025 MLB Whiff% Leaders (By Pitch)
– 4-Seam Fastball –
1. Cade Smith (32.2%)
2. Zack Wheeler (30.5%)
3. Garrett Crochet (30.3%)
4. Paul Skenes (28.9%)
T-5. Bryan Woo (28.8%)
T-5. Hunter Brown (28.8%)*min. 750 thrown
🧵 👇 pic.twitter.com/egywklmupx
— Ray Ballstein (@RaysRanter) October 4, 2025
Smith always looked poised and in control when he took the mound.
He never seemed to be fazed by the bright lights, and he stepped up and delivered almost every single time he was asked to take the field in a high-leverage situation.
Whether it was as a setup or as a closer, Smith often answered the call.
He has ice in his veins, and he looks more than ready to take the reins for years to come.
There have been little to no updates regarding Clase’s situation.
So, even if he does return at some point, which may not happen next season, the Guardians should continue to roll with Smith.
NEXT: Guardians Could Be Set For Breakout Year Next Season
