One individual from the Cleveland Guardians baseball team must execute a trade deal before the specified deadline in 2025.
In the 2025 Major League Baseball season, the Cleveland Guardians find themselves fighting for the American League Central title, much like previous years. Their roster, anchored by star third baseman José Ramírez and a strong pitching staff, positions them for another playoff push. However, like clockwork, the Guardians face obstacles, with their outfield serving as a persistent weak point.
While Cleveland is projected to be active in the trading market at the deadline, their capacity to acquire a significant addition depends on their decision to part with a valuable asset. In this market where high-leverage relievers are in high demand, the player the Guardians might consider dealing before the 2025 trade deadline is All-Star closer Emmanuel Clase.
The Argument for Trading Emmanuel Clase
Clase has exhibited dominance since taking over as Cleveland’s closer. In 2024, he recorded a miniscule 0.61 ERA and led the majors with 47 saves, marking his third consecutive season atop the leaderboard. Clase’s command, sharp cutter, and knack for inducing weak contact have made him one of the most dependable late-inning arms. Moreover, Clase’s contract is team-friendly, with salary amounts of $4.9 million in 2025, $6 million in 2026, and club options for $10 million in both 2027 and 2028.
Despite his value, there are persuasive reasons for Cleveland to move Clase now. The Guardians have a history of dealing established stars before they become too expensive or reach free agency, maximizing returns from their burgeoning farm system. With Clase’s contract still affordable and his performance at its zenith, his trade value may never be higher. Additionally, the organization has proven adept at cultivating bullpen arms, diminishing the loss of their closer. Most importantly, trading Clase could bring in the impact outfield bat or controllable starter the Guardians desperately need to balance their roster and compete for a title.
Cleveland's outfield production has been among the poorest in the American League. Steven Kwan remains a solid presence in left, but the Guardians have cycled through Nolan Jones, Jhonkensy Noel, and Angel Martínez in right and center, without much offensive success. The absence of a true center fielder and the need for another middle-of-the-order bat are the main concerns for a team with championship aspirations.
Given their competitive window and the depth of their farm system, Cleveland is in a position to pursue a controllable, impact outfielder or a young starting pitcher. Teams on the cusp of contention or seeking bullpen help, such as the Houston Astros, St. Louis Cardinals, or the New York Mets, could be suitable trade partners. For example, the Astros, who are thin in the outfield following Kyle Tucker’s departure, might be attracted to Clase’s elite closing ability.
Potential Trade Scenario
Cleveland Guardians receive:
- Jacob Melton (OF, Astros’ top prospect)
- Luis Baez (OF, Astros’ second-ranked prospect)
- Spencer Arrighetti (RHP)
Houston Astros receive:
- Emmanuel Clase (RHP)
This trade would provide Cleveland with two of Houston’s top outfield prospects and a young, controllable starter. Jacob Melton is a gifted outfielder with power and speed, projected to debut in 2025 and potentially fill Cleveland’s center field void for years. Luis Baez brings another high-potential bat to the system, while Arrighetti provides immediate rotation depth. For Houston, acquiring Clase would bolster the back end of their bullpen as they strive to remain contenders post-Tucker.
Trading Clase would be a bold move, aligning with Cleveland’s organizational philosophy and current needs. The Guardians’ bullpen depth, including arms like Cade Smith and Paul Sewald, would help mitigate the loss, while the influx of young outfield talent could address their most pressing weakness for the stretch run and beyond.
Furthermore, Cleveland’s farm system remains one of the deepest in the league, with top prospects such as Travis Bazzana, Chase DeLauter, and Angel Genao on the brink of making an impact. Adding Melton and Baez would fortify their pipeline and give the front office the ability to make additional moves as necessary.
The Guardians are at a juncture. Standing pat could result in another October disappointment, while a calculated, daring move could propel them to their first World Series title since 1948. Trading Emmanuel Clase, though painful, offers the best opportunity to address their outfield deficiencies and maximize a window of contention that won’t stay open forever. With the right deal, Cleveland can strengthen both their present and future, ensuring the team remains a force in the American League for years to come.
The Cleveland Guardians may consider trading All-Star closer Emmanuel Clase, given his exceptional performance and team-friendly contract. Doing so could bring in the impact outfield bat or controllable starter the Guardians need to address their persistent weakness in the outfield and compete for the MLB championship.
For instance, a potential trade with the Houston Astros could see the Guardians acquire top outfield prospect Jacob Melton, Luis Baez, and Spencer Arrighetti, thereby fortifying their outfield and pitching depth. Such a move aligns with Cleveland's organizational philosophy and their current needs, helping them capitalize on their competitive window and strive for their first World Series title since 1948.
