With the MLB trade deadline approaching, one target the Chicago Cubs have been linked to is the Cleveland Guardians' closer Emmanuel Clase. Clase has been connected to the Cubs over the last two years; however, a trade involving Clase at the deadline has suddenly gone off the table. Major League Baseball announced that Clase has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave as part of an ongoing investigation into sports betting.
"Per an agreement with the MLBPA, Cleveland Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave through games on August 31st while MLB continues its sports betting investigation.