Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt has not been shy about turning to his superstar closer so far in the American League Division Series. Vogt has been willing to turn to Cade Smith in the 8th inning of games. One specific decision led to some backlash for Vogt, as the Cleveland manager brought Smith in for the 8th inning of Game 4 on Thursday despite the Guards holding a 9-4 lead over the Chicago White Sox. Gavin Williams ended up pitching in the 9th after Smith was removed after 31 pitches thrown.
Cleveland won 9-5, but many questioned how Smith and Williams would bounce back in Game 5 on Saturday.
While there's been plenty of conversations about Smith's usage so far in the MLB playoffs, how does the closer feel about the topic?
“This is the postseason. This is do-or-die, every game matters,” Smith told reporters before Saturday's Game 5 between the White Sox and Guardians, via Mason Horodyski of News 5 Cleveland. “… All hands on deck. There's been conversations with the coaching staff and with (Vogt) about what to expect so I'm on the same page as them.
“But what I told them is I want to help the team win in any capacity I can to the best of my ability. It's all hands on deck.”
Article Continues BelowAll eyes in the MLB world will be on the White Sox-Guardians Game 5 clash on Saturday night, as it is the only playoff game of the day. Game 5's winner will head to Tampa Bay to play the Rays in the ALCS.
The White Sox and Guardians Game 5 contest is scheduled for Saturday night at 8 PM ET in Cleveland.

