Height
6'5"
Weight
230 lbs
Age
26
College
N/A
Experience
2 yrs
Bats/Throws
R/R
Fan Verdict
Grade this player:
Career StatsA
| Year | Team | GP | ERA | W-L | K | WHIP | IP | SV |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career |  | 152 | 2.4437087 | 15-6 | 210 | 0.9602649 | 0.0 | 18 |
Current Contract
Length
1 year
AAV
$780K/yr
Contract Value Index (CVI)
Smith's rookie deal earns an A+ CVI — at just $780K for elite closer production, this represents exceptional value for the Guardians. The 26-year-old reliever has emerged as MLB's 4th-ranked reliever with dominant high-leverage performance, transforming from a second-year player into Cleveland's trusted closer. At less than $1M annually, Smith delivers elite relief pitching at a fraction of what established closers command on the open market, making this one of the most team-friendly contracts in baseball. His rapid ascension has sparked trade interest from contenders like the Dodgers, underscoring his value as a controllable asset. With the Guardians making roster moves that suggest they're evaluating talent rather than pushing for immediate contention, Smith's affordable excellence becomes even more valuable as either a cornerstone piece or premium trade chip. The one-year term means Cleveland controls him through his pre-arbitration years, maximizing the financial advantage of his breakout performance.
Performance Analysis
Cade Smith emerged as one of the most dominant relief pitchers in baseball during his second season with the Cleveland Guardians, establishing himself as a shutdown weapon despite his limited major league experience. The 26-year-old right-hander has appeared in an undefined number of career games across two seasons, which reflects the typical development pattern for late-inning relievers who must prove their mettle in high-leverage situations before earning consistent opportunities. Smith's arsenal features a devastating slider that has become his signature pitch, complementing a mid-90s fastball that plays up due to his deceptive delivery and ability to command the strike zone. His performance grade of A reflects not just his raw stuff, but his composure in pressure moments and his ability to attack opposing hitters with conviction. The Guardians have deployed him strategically throughout his brief career, allowing him to build confidence while protecting his arm for long-term success. Smith's limited experience remains both a concern for durability projections and an indicator of his upside, as he continues to refine his approach against major league hitting. As he enters his third season, the key will be whether he can maintain his elite performance while handling an increased workload in Cleveland's bullpen hierarchy.
Recent Games
| Date | OPP | Result | AB | H | R | HR | RBI | BB | SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tue, 4/7 | vs KC | W 2-1 | - | - | - | 0 | - | - | - |
| Sun, 4/5 | vs CHC | W 6-5 | - | - | - | 0 | - | - | - |
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