As the 2025 MLB trade deadline inches closer, the Cleveland Guardians find themselves at a familiar crossroads: balancing elite pitching assets with an underwhelming offense. The question on many minds is whether Cleveland will entertain the idea of dealing All-Star closer Emmanuel Clase in exchange for the type of power-hitting outfielder they desperately lack. While such a move would be bold, it may be exactly what this team needs to take the next step in contention.
Why Clase Is a Valuable Trade Chip
Emmanuel Clase is widely regarded as one of the best closers in baseball. The 26-year-old flamethrower has built a reputation for his devastating cutter and impeccable command, making him a nightmare for opposing hitters in the late innings. Since his emergence as Cleveland’s full-time closer in 2021, Clase has racked up saves with consistency and has kept his ERA and WHIP among the best in the league.
Clase is also under team control through 2028, making him even more appealing to contenders looking to solidify their bullpen for multiple seasons. With a team-friendly contract and elite performance, Clase is a rare commodity — and the Guardians know it.
Cleveland’s Offensive Woes
Despite having one of the better pitching staffs in the American League, Cleveland continues to struggle offensively, especially in the power department. The Guardians ranked near the bottom of the league in home runs in 2024, and their outfield production has been particularly disappointing. Aside from occasional flashes of promise from young players like Will Brennan or Steven Kwan (more of a contact hitter), the team lacks a true slugger who can flip a game with one swing.
If Cleveland hopes to remain competitive in the AL Central or make a serious playoff push, they will need to add more thump to their lineup — particularly in the outfield. Trading from a position of strength to address a glaring weakness could be the most logical course of action.
Possible Trade Fits
Several teams in contention are seeking bullpen upgrades and might be willing to part with a power-hitting outfielder to land a top-tier closer. The Philadelphia Phillies, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Seattle Mariners all have outfield depth and could make interesting trade partners. A swap involving a player like Alec Burleson, Jake McCarthy, or Jarred Kelenic (depending on team circumstances and needs) could align with Cleveland’s offensive goals.
Of course, the Guardians would likely want a controllable, middle-of-the-order bat in return — not a rental. That limits their options, but also increases the possibility of a high-upside, prospect-heavy package with a major league-ready piece.
Will the Guardians Pull the Trigger?
It’s difficult to predict whether the Guardians will be aggressive enough to trade one of their top arms, especially given how much they value pitching and have built their identity around it. However, they’ve made bold moves in the past — including trading high-profile starters like Trevor Bauer and Mike Clevinger when the timing and return made sense.
If the front office believes the 2025 team has a legitimate chance to contend, moving Clase for an impact bat could be the catalyst that gets them over the hump. Conversely, if they see more value in keeping their dominant bullpen intact, they might opt for a smaller move that doesn’t involve parting with their best reliever.
Final Thought
While it’s far from guaranteed, the idea of trading Emmanuel Clase for a power-hitting outfielder isn’t as far-fetched as it once seemed. The Guardians need offense. Other teams need elite bullpen help. The market is ripe for a mutually beneficial deal — and if the right offer comes along, Cleveland just might say yes.
