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On Sunday, MLB insider and sportscaster Jim Bowden talked about how bullpen pitchers Emmanuel Clase, Hunter Gaddis, Tim Herrin and Cade Smith have been a major reason for the Cleveland Guardians' success this season. The Guardians clinched the AL Central division title on Saturday, as second-place Kansas City Royals lost at home to the San Francisco Giants.
The Guardians bullpen comfortably leads the league with a combined ERA of 2.61. The next team on the list is the Milwaukee Brewers, whose bullpen is 0.6 higher with a 3.21 combined ERA.
Speaking on MLB Network on Sunday, Bowden had nothing but praise for the Guardians bullpen.
"[0:08] This is the greatest bullpen I've ever seen, in my entire lifetime," Bowden said. "I was a GM for 16 years, I've never seen a bullpen this dominant. They lead after five [innings], they win, you lose, you go home."
"[0:38] If they're tied or within a run when they get to the sixth inning, they [the Guardians bullpen] are going to scare teams."
Emmanuel Clase leads the MLB for saves, continues to show Cy Young credentials
The Cleveland Guardians bullpen has been far and away the best in the major leagues this season, and a huge force behind their push for the AL Central division title. Despite skipper Stephen Vogt having many great arms at his disposal to close out games, the crown jewel of the bullpen has undoubtedly been Emmanuel Clase.
On Tuesday, Clase recorded his 46th save of the season against the Minnesota Twins as he struck out two batters in the ninth inning. He is tied with St. Louis' Ryan Helsley for the most saves, but his 0.63 ERA is much better than the Cardinals' closer who has a 2.12 ERA.
Emmanuel Clase's dominant displays on the mound have led to shouts for a potential Cy Young award. Though it has been a prize typically reserved for starters, Clase has a case for himself as he continues to be arguably the most influential member of a division-winning pitching staff.
