Dodgers Reportedly Checking In On Guardians Lockdown Closer For Bullpen Reinforcements
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are looking to defend their World Series championship, and after enduring many injuries to their bullpen this season, are looking for reinforcements at the deadline. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Dodgers have been inquiring about Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase.
CLEVELAND, OHIO - JULY 18: Emmanuel Clase #48 of the Cleveland Guardians celebrates the team's 8-6 win over the Athletics at Progressive Field on July 18, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.
CLEVELAND, OHIO - JULY 18: Emmanuel Clase #48 of the Cleveland Guardians celebrates the team's 8-6 win over the Athletics at Progressive Field on July 18, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.
Photo byThe Guardians aren't currently looking to trade Clase as reported by Nightengale in the same column. But if anyone has the stack of chips to change their mind, it would be the Dodgers.
Clase is one of the league's premier closers and has led the American League in saves the past three seasons, including two seasons where he led all of Major League Baseball. Striking out one batter per inning this season, Clase has closed out 21 games for the Guardians and leads all relievers in appearances as of Monday.
The Dodgers are looking for depth in their bullpen after losing Evan Phillips to Tommy John surgery, along with Blake Treinen and Michael Kopech currently injured. The Dodgers are expected to be active in the bullpen market during the trade deadline to fill those holes.
While the Guardians aren't actively looking to move on from Clase, the Dodgers are staying in contact in case they can change their mind. Clase is under team control through 2028 and is one of the few high-end closers that could be on the market this season.
If the Dodgers are unable to make a deal with Cleveland, there are other options on the market, but many teams are unsure of their path leading up to the trade deadline.
More MLB: A's Reportedly Shopping Starting Pitchers As Deadline Hot Stove Heats Up
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