The Cleveland Guardians are at a critical juncture in their season, currently 4.5 games behind for the final Wild Card spot in the American League. As the MLB trade deadline approaches, they face a significant decision: should they become buyers or sellers? If the Guardians opt to sell, top reliever Emmanuel Clase, who has excelled with over 40 saves in the last three seasons and a current 2.91 ERA, could be in high demand. However, if the Guardians believe they can close the gap, they may choose to keep Clase, especially given their favorable schedule against lesser teams, such as the Athletics and Royals.

With the MLB trade deadline approaching, Ryan Helsley of the St. Louis Cardinals is a name generating buzz among teams looking for a closer. Despite an ERA of 3.38 in 2025, Helsley's track record as the reigning NL Reliever of the Year keeps him relevant in trade discussions. His past performance, coupled with an expiring contract, raises questions about his future in St. Louis.

MLB.com's John Denton notes that while Helsley expressed a desire to stay with the Cardinals, the team's status as Wild Card contenders and the interest from playoff teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers could necessitate a trade. With both Helsley and Emmanuel Clase experiencing a dip in production this season, teams might weigh their options carefully as they consider whether to acquire the talented righty.

The New York Yankees are anticipated to strengthen their bullpen in the coming weeks, with speculation circulating within MLB about potential trades. Among the names being floated is Emmanuel Clase, a standout reliever from the Cleveland Guardians.

Clase's value is significant, and acquiring him would require an impressive offer. Jim Bowden from The Athletic suggests the Yankees could leverage their top prospect, Spencer Jones, to negotiate a deal. Jones, who has shown both power and a high strikeout rate, may not fit the Guardians' current needs for hitters with elite contact skills. The Yankees' willingness to part with Jones could be pivotal in any talks.

The Los Angeles Dodgers may have found a gem in Andy Pages, who has emerged as one of the top outfielders in the National League over the past two and a half months. Despite not being selected for the All-Star Game, his recent performance has raised his value significantly. The Dodgers could consider trading him while his stock is high, with potential targets including the Cleveland Guardians' Emmanuel Clase.

Jim Bowden of The Athletic suggested that the Guardians, in need of offensive reinforcements, could offer Clase in exchange for Pages or other young hitters. Although Clase is one of the league's top relievers, trading Pages would be a tough decision for the Dodgers, especially considering his form and potential impact on their lineup.

The Cleveland Guardians are weighing potential moves ahead of the trade deadline, considering the future of their star closer, Emmanuel Clase. Despite trade rumors, the Guardians are cautious about moving Clase unless they receive top-tier prospects that align with their long-term goals. Jim Bowden of The Athletic suggests targeting young offensive talents, specifically mentioning Aidan Miller from the Philadelphia Phillies, as a key prospect. The Guardians are in dire need of offensive power, and if they trade Clase, they must focus on acquiring young hitters who can make an impact sooner rather than later.

Bowden outlines several teams, advocating for the Guardians to target prospects like Andy Pages from the Dodgers and Kevin McGonigle from the Tigers. However, there are concerns regarding Miller's timeline, as he might not be ready for another two years. The Guardians must contemplate the readiness of any prospect they consider acquiring in a trade.