The Cleveland Guardians showcased an exceptional bullpen in the 2024 MLB season, leading the league in several key statistics such as ERA, holds, and WHIP. Their dominant performance also ranked them among the top in saves and fewest hits allowed. This success was recognized with two of their relievers making MLB Network's 'Top 10 Players Right Now' list.

Cade Smith earned a distinguished second place ranking. His rookie season was historic, marking him as the first MLB reliever in the Modern Era to achieve at least 28 holds, 103 strikeouts, and 17 or fewer walks in a single season, alongside a remarkable 1.91 ERA.

Emmanuel Clase followed closely, securing the fourth spot on the list with an impressive season leading the American League with 47 saves and posting a 0.61 ERA. His achievements included being a Cy Young Award finalist and winning the AL Reliever of the Year for the second consecutive time. Both players are expected to continue their strong performances in the upcoming 2025 season.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Toronto Blue Jays has been awarded the 2024 Tip O’Neill award, recognizing his excellence on the field and adherence to baseball's ideals. The Montreal-born player led Canadian major leaguers in key offensive categories, including batting average and hits.

Guerrero, who previously won the award in 2021, continues to shine with impressive stats, including 30 home runs and 103 RBIs. The award has a rich history, with notable past winners like Larry Walker and Joey Votto.

Stephen Vogt has been named the American League Manager of the Year after leading the Cleveland Guardians to a remarkable turnaround in 2024. With 27 of 30 first-place votes, he outperformed fellow finalists Matt Quatraro and A.J. Hinch.

Vogt's leadership resulted in a 16-win improvement, guiding the Guardians to the ALCS, despite facing challenges after the retirement of longtime manager Terry Francona. The team showcased a strong bullpen and an underrated lineup, marking a significant step forward for Cleveland.

The New York Yankees have secured their place in the World Series after defeating the Cleveland Guardians in the American League Championship Series. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Dodgers are looking to clinch the National League pennant against the New York Mets, utilizing a bullpen game strategy due to injuries among their starting pitchers.

This postseason has seen relievers throwing more innings than starters, a trend that reflects a shift in pitching strategies. The Dodgers will employ their third bullpen game of the playoffs, relying on a mix of relievers to navigate through the game.

Interestingly, while the focus is on the Dodgers, other teams like the Guardians and Mets have also leaned heavily on their bullpens, indicating a broader trend in modern baseball.

The New York Yankees are one win away from their first World Series title since 2009 after taking a 3-1 series lead against the Cleveland Guardians. The Yankees started strong in the Bronx but faced tough competition in Cleveland, where the Guardians fought back with a dramatic walkoff victory.

As the teams prepare for Game 5, the Yankees need a solid performance from Carlos Rodon, who excelled in Game 1. Meanwhile, the Guardians must find a way to build an early lead against Rodon to avoid further stress on their bullpen.

Key players like Giancarlo Stanton and Gleyber Torres have been pivotal for the Yankees, while the Guardians rely on their relievers to regain their dominant form. Predictions are mixed, with some expecting the Yankees to close out the series, while others believe the Guardians will push for a Game 6.