This week’s monster card comes at the suggestion of Rich Zawadzki. It’s a bit different as it’s a relief pitcher. Take a look a 2024 Emmanuel Clase.
Clase who is the the closer of the Guardians, was virtually unhittable for the 2024 season. His biggest stats… he led the AL with 47 saves and backed that up with a minuscule 0.61 ERA.
Clase allowed just 39 hits and 10 walks (9 intentional) in his 74 1/3 innings. Only five earned runs crossed the plate. Emmanuel wasn’t exactly a flamethrower. He struck out 66 for the season.
| Split | W | L | W-L% | ERA | G | GS | GF | SV | IP | H | R | ER | HR | BB | IBB | SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Totals | 4 | 2 | .667 | 0.61 | 74 | 0 | 66 | 47 | 74.1 | 39 | 10 | 5 | 2 | 10 | 1 | 66 |
Whenever we see an A&B pitcher, it brings up the debate of whether or not it is more effective than an A&C pitcher. There is a strong argument but I believe it is as I have detailed in this article. Long story short, the A&C pitcher may stop more hits but the A&B pitchers will stop hits in key situations.
In addition to the top A&B grade, Clase received a Y and a Z both deserved.
In case you are wondering, Emmanuel Clase received a Master Game rating of 29* so he was one point away from being perfect!
thanks, Rich!
