Emmanuel Clase Bio
Emmanuel Clase is a Dominican professional baseball pitcher for the Cleveland Guardians of Major League Baseball (MLB). He made his MLB debut in 2019 with the Texas Rangers and was traded to the Guardians afterward, becoming their main closer in 2021. Over his career, Clase has established himself as one of the top bullpen arms in the league, achieving notable accolades including multiple All-Star selections and leading the league in saves on several occasions. However, his career has seen challenges, including a suspension due to a positive PED test and legal troubles related to sports betting as of 2025.
Early Life and Background
Emmanuel Clase was born on March 18, 1998, in the Dominican Republic. Growing up in a country rich in baseball culture, he was exposed to the sport at a young age. His passion for baseball led him to pursue a professional career, and he signed with the San Diego Padres as an international free agent in February 2015. This early commitment to baseball set the stage for his future in Major League Baseball.
Path to Baseball
After signing with the San Diego Padres, Clase played in the Dominican Summer League, where he showcased his talent as a pitcher. He progressed through the Padres’ minor league system, demonstrating his potential with impressive statistics. In 2018, he was traded to the Texas Rangers, where he continued to develop his skills. His performance in the minor leagues earned him a call-up to the major leagues, marking the beginning of his professional career in MLB.
Emmanuel Clase Career
Early Career (2019)
Clase made his MLB debut on August 4, 2019, with the Texas Rangers, pitching 1+2⁄3 scoreless innings. He finished his rookie season with a 2.31 earned run average and 21 strikeouts over 23+1⁄3 innings. His fastball was noted for its velocity, averaging 99.2 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest in the league.
Breakthrough (2021-2022)
After being traded to the Cleveland Guardians in December 2019, Clase quickly became a key player for the team. In 2021, he was named the American League Reliever of the Month in August and compiled 24 saves in 29 opportunities. His breakout season came in 2022 when he led MLB in saves with 42 and was selected for his first All-Star game. He pitched a scoreless ninth inning for the American League, securing a victory and solidifying his status as one of the league’s top closers.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Emmanuel Clase has achieved significant milestones, including being named a 3× All-Star and leading the American League in saves multiple times. He has also received accolades such as the AL Reliever of the Year award in 2022 and 2024, showcasing his dominance in the bullpen.
Emmanuel Clase Award Nominations
Emmanuel Clase has received numerous nominations throughout his career, reflecting his impact on the game and recognition by his peers and industry professionals.
Emmanuel Clase Awards Won
Clase has won several prestigious awards, including multiple All-Star selections and the AL Reliever of the Year award, highlighting his exceptional performance as a closer in Major League Baseball.
Emmanuel Clase Family
Information regarding Emmanuel Clase’s family is not publicly available, as he tends to keep his personal life private.
Personal Life
Emmanuel Clase’s personal life has faced scrutiny, particularly due to legal issues related to sports betting. In 2025, he was placed on non-disciplinary paid leave as part of an investigation into gambling allegations. Following the conclusion of the season, he was indicted on charges related to conspiracy and money laundering, which has impacted his career and public image.