CLEVELAND — Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase has been named the American League's Reliever of the Month for the fifth time in his career after putting together a brilliant run of outings in May.
In 13 appearances, Clase went 2-0 without allowing an earned run, converting nine of 10 save opportunities. He struck out 14 batters in 13 innings, with one walk and one unearned run allowed.
The 26-year-old Clase is leading all Major League relievers with a 0.31 ERA this season, having allowed just one earned run over 29.1 innings pitched. His 18 saves are the most in the American League and rank No. 2 in the Majors. The right-hander is also tied for second in the Majors with 30 appearances.
From May 1-20, Clase did not allow a hit over a career-best nine consecutive appearances, yielding just one walk while striking out nine in that span. He also posted saves on consecutive days three times during the month: May 5-6, May 20-21, and May 25-26.
The Guardians are 28-2 on the season when Clase appears in a game.
Clase and the Guardians will open a three-game series with Kansas City on Tuesday night at Progressive Field. Cleveland currently leads the Royals by four games in the American League Central Division.