Three players the Guardians should think twice about extending

3. James Karinchak

The stumbles that James Karinchak has experienced cannot be ignored. Even when Karinchak is locked in and pitching his best, he is only one pitch away from implosion. It has become clear rather quickly that the pitch clock and Karinchak are not friends. Until/unless a complete overhaul of Karinchak's pre-pitching routine and mechanics comes, it is hard to justify handing him an extension of any type.

Even though Karinchak has three more years of arbitration remaining, it is worth noting that Cleveland has bought out arbitration years in the past. Going down this path with Karinchak could prove to be a problem in the future.

There is also the fact that team signed Emmanuel Clase, their closer, to an extension prior to 2022 that could keep him with the team until 2028 if both club options are exercised. Considering Karinchak's struggles and the fact he will at best will be a setup man, it is best to spend their financial resources elsewhere. It is also worth noting that relief arms are extremely volatile and investing in them is a big risk, a risk that Cleveland would be wise to avoid. Any additional volatility from Karinchak down the line is surely to blow up in their face if signed to an extension.