Closer Accused of Rigging Playoff Games for Guardians

Emmanuel Clase allegedly sabotaged Cleveland's 2024 postseason run for personal gain

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase is facing allegations that he rigged pitches during the team's 2024 playoff run, including key losses in the ALDS and ALCS. If true, Clase may have intentionally cost the Guardians a chance at the World Series, an unforgivable betrayal in the eyes of fans.

Why it matters

The accusations against Clase, if proven true, would be a massive blow to the integrity of the game and devastating for the Guardians franchise and their loyal fanbase. Fixing playoff games for personal gain is an egregious offense that could result in a lifetime ban from baseball.

The details

Clase is accused of rigging pitches in multiple playoff games against the Detroit Tigers and New York Yankees in 2024. In those games, Clase either blew saves, took losses, or performed poorly despite the Guardians having leads or tied scores. The team's postseason run ended in the ALCS against the Yankees, and the allegations suggest Clase may have intentionally sabotaged the Guardians' chances at reaching the World Series.

  • Clase is accused of rigging pitches during the Guardians' 2024 playoff run.
  • The alleged incidents occurred in the ALDS against the Tigers and the ALCS against the Yankees.

The players

Emmanuel Clase

The former Cleveland Guardians closer who is accused of rigging playoff games in 2024 for personal gain.

Cleveland Guardians

The MLB team that had its 2024 postseason hopes potentially sabotaged by Clase's alleged actions.

New York Yankees

The team that faced the Guardians in the 2024 ALCS, potentially benefiting from Clase's alleged game-rigging.

Detroit Tigers

The team that faced the Guardians in the 2024 ALDS, also potentially impacted by Clase's alleged actions.

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What’s next

The allegations against Clase are still under investigation, and his future in baseball remains uncertain. The Guardians and MLB will likely conduct a thorough probe into the claims before determining any potential punishment.

The takeaway

If the allegations against Clase are proven true, it would be a devastating betrayal of the Guardians franchise and their fans. Intentionally sabotaging a team's playoff run for personal gain is an unforgivable offense that could permanently tarnish Clase's legacy and the integrity of the game itself.