The Cleveland Guardians have begun to consider offers for relievers Emmanuel Clase and Cade Smith.

According to MLB Network insider Jon Heyman, the Guardians are in discussions regarding trade proposals for top reliever Emmanuel Clase and Cade Smith.

Both of these crucial late-inning pitchers may seek substantial returns, and Heyman pointed out that their "asking price is naturally quite high." As the Guardians' closer, Clase finished third in the American League Cy Young voting last season, boasting a 1.78 ERA over the past five years and leading the majors with 178 saves. At 27 years old, he has a salary of $6.4 million next year, with a $10 million club option for 2027-28.

Smith also received Cy Young votes during his rookie season in 2024, recording 103 strikeouts over 75.1 innings pitched, with only 17 walks and a 1.91 ERA. This year, his ERA has risen to 3.07 (partly due to an increase in walk rate), but his 34.7% strikeout rate and 35.3% whiff rate remain elite, and he won’t be eligible for arbitration until 2027.

It makes sense for teams in need of bullpen help to evaluate the Guardians' willingness to trade these two key relievers. However, Heyman added that Cleveland is "viewed as unlikely" to trade either player. Additionally, given that the team is still competitive for a wild card spot as of today, they are more likely to strengthen rather than weaken their roster before the trade deadline.