AL Central: Is Cade Smith a threat to Clase's job?

Cleveland Guardians

Cade Smith (RHP, CLE) is off to another outstanding start, as he has surrendered just 2 ER through his first 13 IP. He has a shiny 16/4 K/BB with a 30% K% and 14.3% SwK, and has now recorded his team's two most recent saves.

Prior to Smith's first save on April 21st, closer Emmanuel Clase (RHP, CLE) had pitched three days in a row, so it was no surprise Smith got the call. The second save, however, was unexpected, and it was later revealed that Clase was dealing with a sore shoulder that prevented him from taking the mound. 

A balky shoulder isn't the only concern for Clase, who was the first closer off the board in many drafts this year. He is the owner of a 7.84 ERA, 2.23 WHIP, and 16% K% through 11 appearances....

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

With Bryan Abreu's early season struggles, is there a change to be made at closer in Houston?
Apr 1 2026 3:05am
Jesús Sánchez (pictured) and Nathan Lukes are jockeying for at-bats in left field for Toronto. Plus, more fallout from the first weekend of action in 2026.
Mar 31 2026 3:05am
This week's NL West column answers the lineup questions we posed at the beginning of spring training.
Mar 28 2026 3:05am
Opportunities abound for young interesting players in the National League Central.
Mar 27 2026 3:05am
Following up on our spring training questions, including what happens to the rest of the lineup if Kevin McGonigle makes it onto the Tigers' roster?
Mar 26 2026 3:08am

Tools