Guardians' Cade Smith Earns Save in Thursday's Game

Cleveland closer records perfect ninth inning against Seattle Mariners

Mar. 27, 2026 at 5:54am

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Cade Smith, the Cleveland Guardians' closer, earned a save against the Seattle Mariners on Thursday. Smith entered the game in the ninth inning with the Guardians leading by two runs and retired the side in order, striking out one batter in a perfect inning of work.

Why it matters

Smith has taken over as the Guardians' closer following legal troubles for former closer Emmanuel Clase. He had a career-high 16 saves last season and is expected to exceed that mark this year as the team's clear-cut closer.

The details

Smith entered the game in the ninth inning with the Guardians leading the Mariners by two runs. He made quick work of the three Mariners hitters, retiring the side in order on just 13 pitches.

  • Smith earned the save on Thursday, March 27, 2026.

The players

Cade Smith

The Cleveland Guardians' closer who has taken over the role following legal troubles for former closer Emmanuel Clase.

Emmanuel Clase

The former Cleveland Guardians' closer who had legal troubles, allowing Cade Smith to take over the closer role.

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The takeaway

Cade Smith's perfect ninth inning save on Thursday solidifies his role as the Guardians' closer this season, as he looks to build on his career-high 16 saves from last year.