Popular Trade Target Emmanuel Clase Placed On Leave By MLB

Major League Baseball’s trade deadline is four days away, and the market for premier relief pitching remains a popular commodity for teams in search of bullpen help for the final two months of the regular season.

That said, the market for impact closers thinned considerably last week when it was announced that Baltimore Orioles All-Star Félix Bautista was placed on the 15-day injured list with right shoulder discomfort. On Monday, ESPN’s Jeff Passan revealed on social media that Major League Baseball has placed Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase on non-disciplinary paid leave through August 31 as part of an ongoing investigation into sports betting.

The Guardians organization released a statement confirming Passan’s report while offering the team’s full cooperation during MLB’s investigation of the claims.

“The Guardians have been notified by Major League Baseball that as part of their sports betting investigation Emmanuel Clase has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave per an agreement with the Players Association,” the team said, per Tim Stebbins. “We have been informed that no additional players or Club personnel are expected to be impacted. The Guardians are not permitted to comment further at this time, and will respect the league’s confidential investigative process as we continue to fully cooperate.”

Clase was recently considered a name to watch for contenders like the Philadelphia Phillies, who are in desperate need of help in the back of their bullpen. Before his suspension, Clase had converted 24 saves and had an ERA of 3.23 in 47 1/3 innings. He joins teammate Luis Ortiz as the second Cleveland pitcher placed on leave this month in MLB’s investigation into gambling across the league.