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

Will an early-season managerial bloodletting lead to palace intrigue and PT repercussions in PHI? Plus: RP in WAS; OF& SS in ATL; C in MIA; SP at NYM; more.
May 6 2026 9:05am
The A's are in need of a boost at 3B and they have an option at AAA.
May 6 2026 3:05am
Carlos Rodón's return to the Yankees rotation is nearing and Gerrit Cole's could be close behind. How does this affect the Yankees' rotation? Plus, more from around the AL East.
May 5 2026 3:05am
This week, we make the bold case for a Rockies starter—even in Denver—and we take a peek at two overlooked NL West first basemen who deserve more attention.
May 2 2026 3:05am
Pedro Ramírez is demonstrating real power at AAA Iowa, could there be a path to MLB playing time for one of the minor's hottest hitting infielders?
May 1 2026 3:05am

Tools