Yankees Top Guardians 8-6, Lead ALCS 3-1

Emmanuel Clase, the Cleveland Guardians' All-Star closer, has faced significant struggles during the postseason, particularly against the New York Yankees in the AL Championship Series. After a dominant regular season with a 0.61 ERA and 47 saves, Clase faltered in Games 3 and 4, allowing crucial runs that have pushed the Guardians to the brink of elimination, now down 3-1 in the series. In Game 3, despite giving up back-to-back homers, his teammates bailed him out, but in Game 4, he allowed two runs in the ninth inning, resulting in an 8-6 loss for Cleveland. Yankees manager Aaron Boone noted the team's growing confidence against Clase after previous successes, which have capitalized on his recent vulnerabilities. Guardians manager Stephen Vogt remains supportive of Clase, attributing his failures to a couple of bad pitches rather than a loss of ability. As the Guardians look to avoid being eliminated, they will rely on their ace closer to regain his form in crucial upcoming games.