Cubs Among Teams Most Actively Monitoring Guardians' Emmanuel Clase

Cubs Among Teams Most Actively Monitoring Guardians' Emmanuel Clase originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The most pressing need for the Chicago Cubs is in the starting rotation. However, at the beginning of the season, there was another major need that was expected to be addressed: the bullpen.

While the first month was rough, sitting at a 4.76 ERA through April, things have taken a significant turn in the months since. Now, the Cubs' bullpen sits at a 3.77 ERA, tied for the ninth best in baseball.

But, the improved bullpen doesn't mean the Cubs won't consider adding to the bullpen at the trade deadline. According to Francys Romero of beisbolfr.com, the Cubs are actively involved in one of the top relievers' trade markets.

The Chicago Cubs are one of the teams most actively monitoring Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase, according to industry sources.

— Francys Romero (@francysromeroFR) July 23, 2025

"The Chicago Cubs are one of the teams most actively monitoring Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase," Romero writes, "according to industry sources."

If the Cubs are in the market for a reliever, then Clase is the one to be involved with. The Cleveland Guardians' right-handed closer has been one of the better relievers over the past few seasons.

The 27-year-old has a 2.80 ERA this season across 45 innings pitched, with 22 saves, 45 strikeouts, and 10 walks. He's also allowed just one home run all season.

His 148 ERA+ is at an incredible spot, meaning he is 48 percent better than the league-average pitcher. But, remarkably, that number isn't even remotely close to what he did in 2024.

A year ago, Clase put together one of the best seasons for a reliever since the turn of the century. He had a 0.61 ERA, 47 saves, 66 strikeouts, ten walks, two home runs allowed, and a ridiculous 674 ERA+ in 74.1 innings pitched.

He earned his third All-Star nod that season, was 11th in MVP voting, and finished in third place in AL Cy Young voting. He allowed only five earned runs all season long.

While adding Clase would be a luxury addition for the Cubs, he'd be an incredible pickup. Daniel Palencia, Ryan Pressly, and Drew Pomeranz have led one of the better bullpens this season.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 23, 2025, where it first appeared.