The Philadelphia Phillies are in a critical position as they approach the MLB trade deadline, needing to rejuvenate an aging roster that has underperformed. ESPN's Jeff Passan has suggested that Emmanuel Clase, the closer for the Cleveland Guardians, could provide the much-needed boost. With Clase under contract until 2028 and a manageable salary of $26 million over the next three years, acquiring him would align well with the Phillies' plans.

Clase's impressive track record, highlighted by a 0.61 ERA and 47 saves in 2024, makes him an attractive option, especially with the current struggles of Phillies' relievers like Jordan Romano, who has a 7.44 ERA. Given the urgency of their playoff ambitions, the Phillies cannot afford to head into the postseason with their current bullpen, making a trade for a high-caliber closer imperative.