Cade Smith has assumed closer duties in the wake of Clase’s absence, becoming a focal point for late-inning fantasy value. His role is contingent on continued reliability and how long Clase remains out, making him a key speculative add for saves.

Smith locked down the save with three punchouts in 1.1 innings, providing Cleveland a reliable late-inning option in tight contests.

Smith is stepping into Clase’s closer role as Ortiz and Clase sit out, marking a rare chance for a young arm to pitch high-leverage innings in a disrupted Guardians bullpen. His early value hinges on securing saves, but long investigations could complicate his hold on the role.

Smith has stepped into the closer role, delivering four of seven saves with a 3.55 ERA since replacing Clase; his readiness to handle the ninth adds a practical path for Cleveland’s bullpen stabilization amid the investigation.

Cade Smith entered the ninth with a 3-2 lead for Cleveland, but two pitches produced two hits (Langford and Seager) and set up Pederson's walk-off. The lapse inverted the save, underscoring late-inning volatility for Guardians’ bullpen in a must-win frame.