Emmanuel Clase’s suspension is set to impact the Guardians in a variety of ways this winter.
While they’re still on the hook for Clase’s salary, the front office has admitted that they’re operating as if Clase’s not going to be on the roster for 2026.
And, as such, one of their priorities this offseason is likely going to be adding a high-leverage bullpen arm who could potentially work in the ninth inning — something that seemed unfathomable a year ago.
Although Cade Smith, Hunter Gaddis and Co. did a great job holding down the fort after Clase was suspended, they still need to bring in at least one more MLB-ready arm to help fill the Clase-sized hole in the bullpen.