What happened: Cade Smith entered play Thursday leading all of MLB with 26 saves, cementing his role as the anchor of Cleveland's bullpen. He has emerged as one of the American League's most dependable late-inning arms this season.
Why it matters: A closer converting at this rate stabilizes every one-run game down the stretch and takes pressure off a starting staff. For a Cleveland club fighting for position in the AL Central, reliable ninth-inning outs are the difference between banked wins and blown leads.
By the numbers: Smith sat atop the majors with 26 saves entering Thursday, up from a league-leading 21 in early June. He was recognized as AL Reliever of the Month earlier this season.
What to watch: Watch whether Smith holds the MLB saves lead and continues building his case as the AL's top closer over the coming weeks.