CLEVELAND — A dead sheep’s eyeball provided evidence of how Cade Smith is built different, and the Guardians are counting on his appetite for a challenge.

A right-handed relief pitcher, Smith has helped the Guardians go 11-5 since three-time All-Star closer Emmanuel Clase was placed on paid leave July 28 through games on Aug. 31 while MLB conducts a sports betting investigation .

The Guardians have won five consecutive series during the stretch, though they began a three-game matchup against the Atlanta Braves with a 2-0 loss Aug. 15 at Progressive Field.

With roughly six weeks left in the regular season and through Aug. 15, the Guardians (63-58) were 1½ games behind the New York Yankees (65-57) for the third and final American League wild-card playoff spot and 7½ games b

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