With the MLB trade deadline just over 36 hours away on July 31, the relief market seemingly lost a significant name as Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase was put on paid, non-disciplinary administrative leave amid the league’s ongoing investigation into sports betting.
Although Clase will continue to be paid through his leave that as of now extends through Aug. 31, he is not going to count against the Guardians’ 40-man roster.
Clase is the second player MLB has put on administrative leave during their probe, joining teammate Luis Ortiz, who is suspected of having a role in two pitches that drew unusual betting activity.
Ortiz’s leave began July 3 and was initially through the All-Star break. MLB and the Players Association (MLBPA) then agreed to extend that leave to Aug. 31 due to the ongoing investigation.
In Clase’s case, the Guardians not only lose their closer for the next month, but also miss out on a possible signifiant return in a trade.
Clase signed a five-year, $20 million extension in April 2022 ands under team control through the 2028 season. Clase’s deal includes club options for both the 2027 and 2028 seasons that are on track to be $13 million each through reaching escalators.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are among the teams that have been mentioned in a potential Clase trade, though that has been accompanied by skepticism they would provide with the necessary pieces.
Emmanuel Clase on leave amid MLB betting investigation
MLB statement
“Per an agreement with the MLBPA, Cleveland Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave through games on August 31st while MLB continues its sports betting investigation. We will not comment further until the investigation has been completed.”
Guardians statement
“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.
“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.”
Can Guardians still trade Emmanuel Clase?
It technically remains possible for the Guardians to still trade Clase while he is on administrative leave. Of course, it’s not a probable outcome considering Clase won’t be available until at least Aug. 31, and there is the potential for disciplinary action.
Clase missed the 2020 season because of a suspension for PEDs.
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