Emmanuel Clase, the Cleveland Guardians’ closer, had a spectacular 2024.
He became the franchise saves leader and set other marks, including a 0.61 ERA in 74.1 frames and 47 saves.
The postseason, however, did not treat him well.
In eight innings of playoff action, the right-hander posted a 9.00 ERA.
His equipment didn’t seem right, and his command was askew, resulting in a few disastrous breakdowns.
Speaking with the media this week, Guardians manager Stephen Vogt voiced complete faith in his closer heading into the summer.
“Emmanuel Clase was the best closer in baseball throughout the Guardians’ 162-game regular season, but he had three really difficult playoff appearances that left a bad taste in Cleveland fans’ mouths. “Here’s what Stephen Vogt said about Clase’s season and demeanor as he heads into the offseason,” play-by-play announcer Brendan Gulick wrote on X.
Vogt stated that Clase had “a phenomenal season.” We couldn’t have asked for much more. His demeanor remained constant, and his attitude never wavered. Of course, the results were not in, but we still wanted him in the ninth inning.”
“I know Emmanuel very well and I have a feeling that’s going to fuel his off-season,” Vogt told me.
Perhaps if Clase had demonstrated his regular season form in October, the Guardians could have extended the AL Championship Series against the New York Yankees.
That’s all behind us now, and it’s time to focus on next season and getting Clase in the correct frame of mind.
Vogt isn’t concerned, and he’s confident that his ninth-inning star will be effective whenever his number is called.
