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Cleveland Guardians Reportedly Listening to Trade Offers on Top Relievers
Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Cade Smith (36) throws a pitch during the tenth inning against the Detroit Tigers at Progressive Field on July 6. Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

According to a report from Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Cleveland Guardians are willing to listen to trade offers on top relievers Cade Smith and Emmanuel Clase.

Guardians are listening on relievers, including stars Smith and Clasé. Prices are understandably high. They are seen as not too likely to trade either top pen guy, and with MLB’s easiest closing schedule, they aren’t even a certain seller

After beating the A's, the Guardians are 47-49 and 4.5 games back of the final wild card spot in the American League, so Heyman's point is well taken

Trading Smith would be a shock, considering he's just 26 years old and under contract through 2029. He's also one of the best relievers in baseball. He's struck out 61 batters in 41.0 innings this season while posting a 2-3 record and a 3.07 ERA. Last year, he was integral as the Guardians won the American League Central and advanced to the American League Championship Series, posting a 1.91 ERA in 74 games.

As for Clase, he's shaken off a slow start to get back to his usual, dominant self. He's 5-2 with a 2.86 ERA, striking out 44 batters in 44.0 innings. He's got 21 saves and has led the American League in the category for each of the last three years.

Cleveland will battle the Athletics again on Saturday night with first pitch coming at 7:10 p.m. ET. Luis Severino will start the A's, while left-hander Logan Allen pitches for the Guardians. He's 6-7 with a 4.00 ERA.

This article first appeared on Fastball on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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