MLB Trade Rumors: Top NL Team Pushing Hard For Guardians' Emmanuel Clase
Multiple reports confirm the Cubs are one of the teams “most actively monitoring” the All-Star reliever, joining a crowded field that includes the Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, and New York Mets. The Cubs have been linked to Clase since last offseason and may now be ready to make a serious offer.
The Cubs are one of the teams most actively monitoring Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase, per @francysromeroFR. pic.twitter.com/Nq8sHGvsLg
— Cubs Zone (@CubsZone) July 23, 2025
Clase's Elite Resume and Team-Friendly Contract
Clase, 26, remains one of MLB’s most dominant closers. Since 2021, he leads the majors with 180+ saves and boasts a 1.81 ERA across that span. After a rocky April, he's rebounded with a 2.80 ERA and 22 saves over 45 appearances in 2025, reclaiming his ninth-inning role with trademark velocity and command.
His contract is a massive draw: $4.5M in 2025, $6M in 2026, and two club options at $13M through 2028, far below the $20M+ AAV going to top-tier closers in free agency.
Emmanuel Clase, Nasty Cutters. ✂️✂️ pic.twitter.com/pZDE8mvZnG
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) July 24, 2025
Cubs Positioned to Make a Strong Offer
The Cubs are clearly in “buyer” mode and sitting in second place in the NL Central with a 60-42 record. Their bullpen ranks top 10 by ERA (3.77), but lacks a true lockdown closer. Clase would slot in perfectly, shifting Daniel Palencia into a setup role and deepening the relief corps for a playoff run.
Cleveland won’t let him go easily, but Chicago has the prospects to make it happen. Outfielders Owen Caissie and Kevin Alcántara, or infielders like James Triantos and Christian Hernández, could entice a Guardians team hungry for bats and long-term control.
Photo Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
