Texas acquired Clase as a PTBNL in a small deal with the Padres. The 21-year-old is on the fast track as a relief-only prospect, with power stuff that has propelled him through the system quickly in the ‘pen. Texas skipped him over Low-A entirely to start 2019, and after a few dominant outings in the Carolina League, Clase got promoted to Double-A. He’s an all-star in the Texas League after converting four of six save opportunities and striking out nearly a batter per inning for Frisco.

Clase’s fastball touches 99 mph and works in the 96-to-98 mph range with downhill angle from an over-top release point. His high-80s slider plays like a putaway pitch when he finishes it down in the zone, but it has been inconsistent at times this year. He has limited walks well for a power arm, though there’s more control than command or pitchability. It’s basically a two-pitch mix that relies on arm-strength, and when he falls behind in counts, hitters are barreling his fastball in Double-A more than lower levels. Clase has the tools of a setup reliever, and he’s young enough to project a bit on his less refined aspects. This type of power arm often can help in the big leagues at an early age but has a short overall shelf life.