Cade Smith Bio
Cade Jared Benjamin Smith is a Canadian professional baseball pitcher for the Cleveland Guardians of Major League Baseball (MLB). He made his MLB debut in 2024. Drafted by the Minnesota Twins in 2017, he chose to attend the University of Hawaii at Manoa instead. After going undrafted in 2020, he signed with the Cleveland Indians, where he quickly made a name for himself in the league, known for his high strikeout rates and notable performances during postseason play.
Early Life and Background
Cade Smith was born on May 9, 1999, in Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada. He attended Mennonite Educational Institute, where he developed an interest in baseball. Growing up, he was a fan of the Toronto Blue Jays, which further fueled his passion for the sport. After high school, Smith pursued higher education at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, where he played college baseball and honed his skills as a pitcher.
Path to Baseball
Cade Smith was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in the 16th round of the 2017 Major League Baseball draft. However, he opted to continue his education and play college baseball instead of signing with the team. After going undrafted in the 2020 MLB draft, which was shortened due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Smith signed with the Cleveland Indians. He began his professional career in 2021, playing for the Lynchburg Hillcats and Lake County Captains, where he quickly made an impression with his pitching abilities.
Cade Smith Career
Early Career (2021–2023)
Smith’s professional career began in 2021, where he played for the Lynchburg Hillcats and Lake County Captains. In 2022, he continued to develop his skills with the Lake County Captains and Akron RubberDucks. His performance in the minor leagues set the stage for his eventual call-up to the major leagues. In 2023, he was selected to represent Canada in the World Baseball Classic, showcasing his talent on an international stage.
Breakthrough (2024–Present)
Cade Smith made his MLB debut on March 30, 2024, against the Oakland Athletics, where he struck out five batters in just two innings pitched. This performance set a Cleveland record for the most strikeouts in a debut of two innings pitched or fewer. Smith finished his rookie season with an impressive 1.91 earned run average (ERA) and 103 strikeouts in 75+1⁄3 innings. Smith made his postseason debut on October 5, 2024, where he struck out all four Detroit Tigers he faced in Game 1 of the American League Division Series. He continued to impress, fanning 12 of the 22 batters he faced in the ALDS, setting a major league record for strikeouts by a reliever in the Division Series. In the 2025 season, Smith became one of two replacement closers for the Guardians after Emmanuel Clase was placed on non-disciplinary paid leave. During this time, Smith emerged as Cleveland’s primary closer, achieving a 6–2 record with a 2.79 ERA and 39 strikeouts in 30 games. He ended the 2025 season with an 8–5 record, a 2.93 ERA, and 104 strikeouts in 76 games. His outstanding performance earned him the title of American League Reliever of the Month for September.
Notable Works and Milestones
Cade Smith is known for his high strikeout rates and strong performances in postseason play. He holds the Major League record for strikeouts by a reliever in the Division Series and was named the American League Reliever of the Month in September 2025.
Cade Smith Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Cade Smith has received recognition for his outstanding performances, including nominations for various awards related to his pitching achievements.
Cade Smith Awards Won
Cade Smith has achieved significant milestones in his career, including being named the American League Reliever of the Month for September 2025.
Cade Smith Family
Cade Smith is married to Elizabeth, an American. The couple maintains a private life, focusing on their family and careers.
Personal Life
Cade Smith is a Christian and has expressed his faith as an important aspect of his life. He continues to be an avid supporter of the Toronto Blue Jays, the team he grew up admiring.
