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‘Whenever you need me’: Smith a busy man at back end of Guardians’ bullpen

CLEVELAND -- All roads lead to Cade Smith. If the Guardians are going to pull this off, it’s going to end with him. In the postseason, most Guardians games do.

MLB Official

Published: Wednesday, 14 October 2026 at 9:55 PM

Key Things to Know

Cade Smith has served as an essential, high-usage closer for the Cleveland Guardians during the 2026 postseason.
Smith became the first pitcher in postseason history to appear in 18 games over a 20-game playoff span.
During this postseason run, Smith has surrendered just one run across 7 2/3 innings while striking out 11 batters.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Cleveland Guardians closer Cade Smith has become a vital, heavily utilized weapon in the postseason, appearing in 18 of the team's last 20 playoff games since 2024. Manager Stephen Vogt has relied heavily on the right-hander, who pitched in all five ALDS games against the White Sox and Game 1 of the ALCS against the Rays.

Smith saved 41 games during the regular season and has allowed only one run across 7 2/3 postseason innings while striking out 11. Alongside setup reliever Hunter Gaddis, Smith anchors a bullpen that Cleveland considers crucial to its pursuit of a World Series title.

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‘Whenever you need me’: Smith a busy man at back end of Guardians’ bullpen

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