"I had to tie Emmanuel Clase to his chair" - Manager Stephen Vogt jokes about Guardians star's urge to pitch every day
On Friday, Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt discussed the measures he needed to take to ensure Emmanuel Clase got some much-needed rest.
Regarded as one of the best closers in the game, Clase's performances this season have put him in contention for the Cy Young award.
The Guardians are having a strong 2024 season and boast the best record (72-49) of any team in the league so far. A lot of credit goes to their bullpen, with Clase and Co. successfully shutting out opposition offenses in the later innings of games.
On MLB Network Radio, Vogt talked about how Clase is always ready to help his team.
"I ask him how he's feeling, and he just tells me he wants to pitch if there's a save opportunity. I had to fight him not to go five in a row. He wants to pitch every single day."
Vogt also joked about how Clase was just as hungry to pitch on the fifth day after recording four saves in a row.
"I'm thankful he was able to get four in a row. I had to tie him to his chair on Wednesday's game so he wouldn't go out to the bullpen."
The Guardians skipper talked about how Clase is a model professional and gives 100% whenever called upon.
"If we're up eight or down eight, he's always ready to pitch. He comes into lopsided games and throws the same exact way as if it were a one-run save. He has the consistency any reliever should have. No matter the situation, he wants to pitch every single day and help the team."
Emmanuel Clase recorded his 37th save of the season
The Cleveland Guardians won the final game of their home series against the Chicago Cubs 6-1 on Wednesday, recording a sweep in the process.
In the second game on Tuesday, Emmanuel Clase recorded his 37th save of the campaign. He has a 4-2 win/loss record this season, with a 0.64 ERA and 0.66 whips, striking out 49 batters in his late-game exploits.
On Friday, the Guardians take on a Milwaukee Brewers side who are fresh off a series victory against the Los Angeles Dodgers. With both sides in fine form and leading their respective divisions, fans are in for an exciting three-game series at American Family Field.