From B.C. to a World Series push? Cade Smith plays key role in Guardians playoff chase

Abbotsford native Cade Smith is playing a crucial role as closer for the Cleveland Guardians during their 2026 postseason campaign. The 27-year-old right-hander recently closed out a 2-0 series-clinching victory over the Chicago White Sox and needed just six pitches in the ninth inning to secure a 7-3 win against the Tampa Bay Rays in Game 1 of the American League Championship Series.

Smith tied for the Major League Baseball lead with 41 saves during the regular season while recording a 1.95 ERA and 107 strikeouts over 74 innings. Now in his third major-league season, the British Columbia product has pitched in each of Cleveland's first six playoff games as the franchise pursues its first World Series appearance since 2016.