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New York Times
06-05-2025
- Sport
- New York Times
Why Julio Rodriguez and Dylan Crews are among those ripe for a rebound in fantasy baseball
Last week, we focused on the players to worry about after the first month. Today, maybe I'll put a pep in your step by looking at the struggling players you shouldn't worry about. I'm the life of your fantasy party: Dr. Feelgood. Again, I make no promises. I'm not saying these players will stop being unlucky or help you win a championship — they don't deserve to be this bad. Access The Athletic 's guide for abbreviations used in fantasy baseball. Hitters Brandon Lowe (2B, TB) should be hitting .266 with a .474 slugging percentage, not his actual .203/.305. For his career, his actual stats are .004 from his expected ones. His barrel rate is still very good at 10.8%. His hard-hit rate is well above league average. The barrels are great, even when you adjust for his high K%. Dylan Crews (OF, WAS) should be hitting .259 with a .468 SLG — in other words, like a rookie considered by many the best prospect in baseball. His barrel rate is 14.8% (average is 7%), and even on a per-PA basis (meaning K% adjusted), he's 9.6% — twice the MLB average. Of course, he has nine steals, so Crews has a path to be a major asset going forward. Yordan Alvarez (OF, HOU) has been disappointing, even in his expected stats, but he should be .246/.495 in AVG/SLG (terrible for him). But it's not his actual .210/.340. His expected stats are a normal one-month variance, and his actual stats are an inexplicable disaster. I'm not buying that a bad lineup impacts his stats to this degree. Baseball is not a team game. It's hitter vs. pitcher. Who is behind or ahead of him matters for his counting stats, but not his averages. Salvador Perez (C, KC) should be hitting an absurd .331 with a .604 SLG, 96th-percentile or better. He's actually hitting .238 with a .373 SLG. Just trade for Perez right now. His barrel rate of 15.3% is almost as high as his strikeout rate (19.1%). Luis Robert Jr. (OF, CHW) hasn't been good. His expected stats are just .233/.413. But the barrel rate is a career-high 13.5%. The Ks are out of control at over 30%, but even adjusted for PAs, his 7.1% barrel rate is well above average (4.8%). Generally, almost all barrels are hits. His actual stats are .188/.342. Given his 15 steals, he would be a championship-level asset if he reverts to his expected stats. Brandon Nimmo (OF, NYM) is having his second-best season in expected stats. His hard-hit rate is an absurd 59.4% (98th percentile), and his strikeout rate is a near career-best 17.5% (73rd percentile). The zero steals are disappointing, but in fairness, he's just an average runner now. The power is very real. Julio Rodriguez (OF, SEA) is having his best expected stats season. We don't play expected stats fantasy, but should we? His K rate is a career low. His walk rate is a career high. He should be hitting .252 with a .475 slugging. That's fine, given he should threaten 30/30. Adley Rutschman (C, BAL) is also having his best expected stats hitting season (.283/.481 vs. actual .216/.360). The Orioles are just snake-bitten as a whole. But I'd be targeting Rutschman, whom I faded this winter, given that his walks and Ks are almost even. Mike Trout (OF, LAA) has an expected ISO over .300. His expected average is only .248, but that's much better than his actual (.179). His K% is pushing 30%, which is evidence of collapse. He's not the same player he once was, I will stipulate, but he's still dangerous. He could hit .250 with 40 homers in a full season, pro-rated for injury. He's on the IL now with what is described as a minor knee injury. Pitchers Chris Sale (ATL) has earned a 3.31 expected ERA (4.84 actual ERA), which is what we should have hoped for given his age. His K% is still in the 86th percentile, and his control is in the 81st. His WHIP should be about 1.10 (actual 1.41). Even his velocity is only down about half a mile per hour, which is in line with what should have been expected at age 36. Bailey Ober (MIN) has an xERA of 3.51 vs. 3.22 last year and 3.63 in 2023. The K%, at under 20%, is a legit worry. He's lost a little over one mile per hour in velocity but averaged 91.4 mph (only 0.3 mph less than in 2024) in his last start. So I have reasonable hope his K% will positively regress. Eduardo Rodriguez (ARI) is the unluckiest pitcher in baseball with an xERA (3.41) that is 2.50 less than his actual ERA. His K% is well above his career average, and his walk rate is below his career average. He's only 15% rostered on Yahoo, which I get, but he hasn't been this unlucky. So pick him up in all formats. (Photo of Julio Rodriguez: Alika Jenner / Getty Images)
Yahoo
08-04-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
2025 NBA Playoff Picture: What's at stake in the last week of the regular season
2025 NBA Playoff Picture: What's at stake in the last week of the regular season The NBA playoff picture will come into clearer view each day between now and the end of the regular season on April 13. In the meantime, we will provide detailed daily updates on the landscape, including magic numbers, remaining schedule, relevant tiebreakers and the stakes for every day's slate of games. Click here for the Eastern Conference. WESTERN CONFERENCE Playoff-bound, seeding locked 1. Oklahoma City Thunder (64-14) • Clinched No. 1 seed • Net rating: 5.6 (1st) Advertisement What's at stake: First-round series vs. No. 8 seed (Lakers, Nuggets, Clippers, Warriors, Timberwolves, Grizzlies, Kings, Mavericks, or Suns) Playoff-bound, seeding to be determined 2. Houston Rockets (52-27) • Clinched playoff berth • Net rating: 5.6 (4th) • Magic number for No. 2 seed: 1 • Remaining schedule: @LAC, @LAL, DEN • Highest possible finish: No. 2 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 3 seed What's at stake: First-round series vs. No. 6 or No. 7 seed (Lakers, Nuggets, Clippers Warriors, Timberwolves, or Grizzlies) Battling for guaranteed playoff spot 3. Los Angeles Lakers (48-30) • Net rating: 1.3 (14th) • Magic number for top-six seed: 1 • Remaining schedule: @OKC, @DAL, HOU, @POR • Highest possible finish: No. 2 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 8 seed Advertisement What's at stake: Home-court advantage in first round 4. Denver Nuggets (47-32) • Net rating: 3.6 (9th) • Magic number for top-six seed: 3 • Remaining schedule: @SAC, MEM, @HOU • Highest possible finish: No. 3 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 8 seed What's at stake: Home-court advantage in first round 5. Los Angeles Clippers (46-32) • Net rating: 4.8 (5th) • Magic number for top-six seed: 4 • Remaining schedule: SAS, HOU, @SAC, @GSW • Highest possible finish: No. 3 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 8 seed What's at stake: Home-court advantage in first round 6. Golden State Warriors (46-32) • Net rating: 2.8 (10th) • Magic number for top-six seed: 4 • Remaining schedule: @PHX, SAS, @POR, LAC • Highest possible finish: No. 3 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 8 seed Advertisement What's at stake: Home-court advantage in first round 7. Minnesota Timberwolves (46-32) • Net rating: 4.6 (6th) • Magic number for top-six seed: 4 • Remaining schedule: @MIL, @MEM, BKN, UTA • Highest possible finish: No. 3 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 8 seed What's at stake: Home-court advantage in first round 8. Memphis Grizzlies (46-32) • Net rating: 4.5 (7th) • Magic number for top-six seed: 4 • Remaining schedule: @CHA, MIN, @DEN, DAL • Highest possible finish: No. 3 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 8 seed What's at stake: Home-court advantage in first round Play-in bound 9. Sacramento Kings (38-40) • Net rating: 0.5 (15th) • Magic number for top-10 seed: 2 • Remaining schedule: @DET, DEN, LAC, PHX • Highest possible finish: No. 9 seed • Lowest possible finish: Out of play-in tournament Advertisement What's at stake: Home-court advantage in 9/10 play-in game vs. Mavs or Suns 10. Dallas Mavericks (38-41) • Net rating: -1.0 (18th) • Magic number for top-10 seed: 2 • Remaining schedule: LAL, TOR, @MEM • Highest possible finish: No. 9 seed • Lowest possible finish: Out of play-in tournament What's at stake: Home-court advantage in 9/10 play-in game vs. Kings or Suns 11. Phoenix Suns (35-43) • Net rating: -2.6 (21st) • Magic number for top-10 seed: Do not control own destiny • Remaining schedule: GSW, OKC, SAS, @SAC • Highest possible finish: No. 9 seed • Lowest possible finish: Out of play-in tournament Advertisement What's at stake: Home-court advantage in 9/10 play-in game vs. Kings or Mavs Monday's games of consequence (all times Eastern) • Kings at Pistons (7 p.m., NBA TV) EASTERN CONFERENCE Playoff-bound, seeding to be determined 1. Cleveland Cavaliers (62-16) • Clinched playoff berth • Net rating: 9.4 (3rd) • Magic number for No. 1 seed: 1 • Remaining schedule: CHI, @IND, @NYK, IND • Highest possible finish: No. 1 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 2 seed What's at stake: First-round series vs. No. 7 or No. 8 seed (Magic, Hawks, Bulls or Heat) 2. Boston Celtics (58-20) • Clinched playoff berth • Net rating: 9.5 (2nd) • Magic number for No. 1 seed: Do not control own destiny • Remaining schedule: @NYK, @ORL, CHA, CHA • Highest possible finish: No. 1 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 2 seed Advertisement What's at stake: First-round series vs. No. 7 or No. 8 seed (Magic, Hawks, Bulls or Heat) 3. New York Knicks (50-28) • Clinched playoff berth • Net rating: 4.3 (8th) • Magic number for No. 3 seed: 1 • Remaining schedule: BOS, @DET, CLE, @BKN • Highest possible finish: No. 3 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 4 seed What's at stake: First-round series vs. Bucks or Pistons 4. Indiana Pacers (47-31) • Clinched playoff berth • Net rating: 2.2 (12th) • Magic number for No. 4 seed: 2 • Remaining schedule: WAS, CLE, ORL, @CLE • Highest possible finish: No. 3 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 5 seed Advertisement What's at stake: First-round series vs. Bucks or Pistons 5. Milwaukee Bucks (44-34) • Clinched playoff berth • Net rating: 1.9 (13th) • Magic number for No. 5 seed: 3 • Remaining schedule: MIN, NOP, @DET, DET • Highest possible finish: No. 4 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 6 seed What's at stake: First-round series vs. Knicks or Pacers 6. Detroit Pistons (43-35) • Clinched playoff berth • Net rating: 2.3 (11th) • Magic number for No. 5 seed: 4 • Remaining schedule: SAC, NYK, MIL, @MIL • Highest possible finish: No. 5 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 6 seed What's at stake: First-round series vs. Knicks or Pacers Play-in bound 7. Orlando Magic (38-40) • Net rating: -0.5 (17th) • Magic number for top-eight seed: 3 • Remaining schedule: ATL, BOS, @IND, @ATL • Highest possible finish: No. 7 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 10 seed Advertisement What's at stake: Home-court advantage in 7/8 play-in game 8. Atlanta Hawks (37-41) • Net rating: -1.7 (19th) • Magic number for top-eight seed: 3 • Remaining schedule: @ORL, @BKN, @PHI, ORL • Highest possible finish: No. 7 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 10 seed What's at stake: Home-court advantage in 7/8 play-in game 9. Chicago Bulls (36-42) • Net rating: -2.1 (20th) • Magic number for No. 9 seed: 3 • Remaining schedule: @CLE, MIA, WAS, @PHI • Highest possible finish: No. 7 seed • Lowest possible finish: No. 10 seed What's at stake: Home-court advantage in 7/8 play-in game 10. Miami Heat (35-43) • Net rating: -0.2 (16th) • Magic number for No. 9 seed: Do not control own destiny • Remaining schedule: PHI, @CHI, @NOP, WAS • Highest possible finish: No. 8 • Lowest possible finish: No. 10 seed Advertisement What's at stake: Avoid 9/10 play-in elimination game Monday's games of consequence (all times Eastern) • Kings at Pistons (7 p.m., NBA TV) • 76ers at Heat (7:30 p.m.)
Yahoo
23-03-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
2025 NBA Playoffs: Clinching scenarios and updated standings for March 23
With three weeks remaining in the regular season, teams around the NBA have already started to lock up their positions in the standings ahead of the playoffs on April 19. The top six teams in each conference will earn an outright playoff berth at the conclusion of the regular season. The next four teams will compete in the play-in tournament on April 15-18 for the last two seeds in each conference, respectively. Related: Lakers' JJ Redick reveals next step for Bronny James after career night With 10-12 games remaining on the schedule, 27 teams remain in contention to qualify for the postseason by either a playoff berth or a spot in the play-in tournament. The action projects to heat up with teams battling for playoff positioning in their respective conferences. Sunday features eight games on the schedule, with elimination scenarios and other key seeding matchups to monitor. Here are the latest standings and updates: Sunday Hoops starting at 3:00pm/et! 🍿🏀 HOU (seeking 10 straight) hosts DEN🏀 Cade, DET look to continue East push🏀 OKC vs. LAC: both on 5 game streaks🏀 East #1 (CLE) #2 (BOS) in action — NBA (@NBA) March 23, 2025 Western Conference: Oklahoma City Thunder (58-12) Eastern Conference: Cleveland Cavaliers (56-14) Boston Celtics (51-19) Western Conference: Utah Jazz (16-55) New Orleans Pelicans (19-52) Eastern Conference: Washington Wizards (15-55) NBA STANDINGS UPDATE ‼️▪️ NYK (East #3), IND (East #4), MIL (East #5), ATL (East #7), & CHI (East #9) all win — NBA (@NBA) March 23, 2025 Charlotte: The Hornets are eliminated from postseason contention with a loss. This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: 2025 NBA Playoffs: Clinching and elimination scenarios for March 23
New York Times
13-03-2025
- Sport
- New York Times
Fantasy baseball closer tiers for the Top 50 relievers, plus seven sleepers to know
Context can be as crucial as the rote number when placing closers into tiered rankings. Relying on a rank creates potential disappointment and criticism. However, it's part of the valuation process leading up to fantasy baseball drafts. After much thought and consternation, I've put together my Top 50 closer rankings for 2025, with some caveats. Here are some baseline numbers using 12-team league trends for setting saves targets. In the NFBC overall championship, these are the 80th- and 90th-percentile save totals since 2021: Beginning your draft preparations with a target of 70 or more saves should ensure success in the category. There will be changes throughout the season, which makes some wary of paying for saves, but from NFBC leagues, here are the trends in saves among the top-25 finishers in this same timeframe: Last year represented a shift toward accruing more saves. There is more than one way to win a league, but punting saves was not among them in this format. Now for my tiers, with context: 1. Josh Hader (HOU) 2. Mason Miller (ATH) 3. Emmanuel Clase (CLE) Two of the five qualified relievers with over 100 strikeouts lead the way in my updated rankings. Clase has been such a stabilizing force among closers, but can he record more than 70 innings and 40 saves in a fourth straight season? If yes, he will make history. Advertisement 4. Edwin Díaz (NYM) 5. Ryan Helsley (STL) 6. Devin Williams (NYY) 7. Raisel Iglesias (ATL) There is a chance Díaz could be pitching for a new contract since he can opt out at the end of the season. Unless he receives an extension, Helsley will be moved before this year's trade deadline but was last year's breakout among his peers. Williams will bring his vaunted 'Airbender' to the Bronx and gets to keep his beard. But will his back hold up? Iglesias also features a plus changeup and will be a free agent at the end of 2025. 8. Jhoan Duran (MIN) 9. Andrés Muñoz (SEA) 10. Ryan Walker (SF) 11. Jeff Hoffman (TOR) This tier features less stability but teems with upside. Duran's velocity remains a hot topic, but if he's throwing above 101 miles per hour, his stuff remains elite. With Muñoz, it's always about health. He's tinkering with a 'kick-change,' which may provide more whiffs this year. Walker took over as the closer for the Giants during the second half of last year, and he enters 2025 in the role. The only worry is that his manager misses using him as the highest-leveraged reliever (HLR). Hoffman signed a three-year contract with the Blue Jays to take over the ninth inning. Do not overthink this. 12. Tanner Scott (LAD) 13. Félix Bautista (BAL) Here are two more elite strikeout relievers who are a bit further down but could finish higher if their save totals net out at or above 30. However, this is not assured. Scott will receive the 'brunt' of save chances with the Dodgers. His projected total could increase if he takes on a larger save share. Bautista's returning from Tommy John surgery, and the team has said his workload will be monitored closely early this season. Once the training wheels come off and his split-finger fastball finds its form, 'The Mountain' will be a tremendous fantasy asset, though fantasy managers must remain patient. Advertisement 14. David Bednar (PIT) 15. Jordan Romano (PHI) 16. Ryan Pressly (CHC) 17. Kenley Jansen (LAA) Welcome to the unsexy veteran tier of closers. Not only does this tier feature 'Dad' bods, but it comes with some inherent risk. Bednar lost the closer role in the second half and has not been named his team's closer as of this writing. However, he's one year removed from tying for the NL lead in saves. Soft tissue injuries (oblique) have not been his friend, but with health, he could be a steak at his current price point. Romano likely fills the vacated preferred save share role filled by Craig Kimbrel in 2023 for the Phillies. Fantasy managers cannot forget about Rob Thomson's 'floating closer' philosophy, which keeps Romano's save ceiling from possibly reaching its full potential. Pressly waived his no-trade clause for a chance at closing again with the Cubs. Many prefer Porter Hodge, but the all-time postseason saves leader for the Astros should do well pitching for a contract. Jansen has his eyes set on moving up the all-time saves list, and he will get his chance with the Angels. Just note his innings totals and save totals from the previous two seasons — you should not be disappointed. Sometimes, slow and steady wins the race. 18. Carlos Estévez (KC) 19. Trevor Megill (MIL) 20. Robert Suarez (SD) 21. Pete Fairbanks (TB) We've entered the tiers of uncertainty. Estévez signed a contract that pays him like the team's closer, but his team said roles would be fluid during leverage innings. I'm still taking him for 22-25 saves, but he must perform well in those opportunities. Megill led the Brewers in saves last year but has also never thrown more than 50 MLB innings in a season. His second-half dip in K-BB and whiff rate were associated with a back issue, but if this lingers, he may not be closing by July. The same goes for Suarez, who recorded 36 saves last season but had half-season split issues, pointing toward either fatigue or the league adjusting: 22. Justin Martinez (ARI) 23. A.J. Puk (ARI) 24. Kyle Finnegan (WSH) 25. Alexis Díaz (CIN) 26. Chris Martin (TEX) Advertisement Currently in a camp battle for the closer role in Arizona, Martinez or Puk could be a sneaky pick at their current cost in draft capital, but they could also be busts if they are not securing saves. Worse, Kevin Ginkel could be a dark horse in this contest. Finnegan may not record 95 percent of his team's saves this year, but with some migration toward the mean and better command of his four-seam fastball, he may be a stable option in a build — just be sure to monitor your ratios. Alexis Díaz may not mesh well with Terry Francona, given his propensity for issuing free passes. Martin has always been 'the guy behind the guy,' with 14 career saves in 369 appearances, but he opens the year as the Rangers' penciled-in closer. Age and workload may necessitate changes in this role as the year progresses. 27. Mike Clevinger (CHW) 28. Liam Hendriks (BOS) 29. Aroldis Chapman (BOS) 30. Seth Halvorsen/Victor Vodnik/Tyler Kinley (COL) 31. Beau Brieske (DET) 32. Calvin Faucher/Jesús Tinoco/Anthony Bender (MIA) Because most try to accrue saves rather than use relievers for ratio protection, this tier features the remaining four unresolved closer situations. Hendriks has been working with reduced velocity this spring (though he has touched 96 miles per hour), and his contact rate allowed represents some risk. He has pedigree, but can he be the Red Sox closer with less velocity and more guts and guile? Chapman has struggled with walks this spring, and despite his strong second half last year, he has not posted a walk percentage below 15 since 2021. While the Rockies try to determine their closer, it has been reported the team prefers one of its younger flamethrowers. That said, Kinley has had the best spring results. Stay tuned. Predicting who gets the next save for Detroit can be challenging enough daily, but Brieske broke out in September and was the preferred leverage option with Will Vest in the postseason. It may not matter who wins the closer role for the Marlins, but Bender remains a sleeper among the listed triumvirate. This may seem bizarre, but Clevinger, the preferred save option for the White Sox, may work out. 33. Griffin Jax (MIN) 34. Cade Smith (CLE) 35. Edwin Uceta (TB) 36. Jason Adam (SD) 37. Bryan Abreu (HOU) 38. Lucas Erceg (KC) 39. José Alvarado (PHI) 40. Luke Weaver (NYY) Relievers within this group could zoom up the rankings if they become the closer at some point in 2025. Jax, Uctea, Erceg, Alvarado and Weaver will get ancillary saves, which enhances their fantasy appeal. If anything happens in their leverage ladders, Abreu, Smith and Adam are potential closer replacements. 41. Justin Slaten (BOS) 42. Tyler Holton (DET) 43. Orion Kerkering (PHI) 44. Kevin Ginkel (ARI) 45. Ben Joyce (LAA) 46. Jeremiah Estrada (SD) 47. Camilo Doval (SF) 48. Robert Garcia (TEX) 49. Kirby Yates/Blake Treinen (LAD) 50. Yennier Cano (BAL) Advertisement Here are more potential replacement relievers for saves if the opportunity presents itself, along with a couple still in the mix for the closer role with opening day on the horizon. If either Hendriks or Chapman does not emerge as the closer in Boston, keep tabs on Slaten. I have included projections for saves, holds, and SOLDS for The Athletic readers only. They do not have rankings attached — SGP does this based on the numbers, though they do not align with our tiers above. Use this link: Jewett's projected Saves, Holds, and SOLDS Greg Jewett: Closer expert for The Athletic; Owner of Reliever Recon and Closer Monkey Statistical Credits: Steamer projections of on Fangraphs; ZiPS DC courtesy of Dan Szymborski; OOPSY Projections courtesy of Jordan Rosenblum (Top photo of Devin Williams: Nathan Ray Seebeck / Imagn Images)
NBC Sports
14-02-2025
- Sport
- NBC Sports
Fantasy Baseball Bullpen Report: Top closers for 2025, sleepers, outlooks for each MLB team
Fantasy baseball season is officially here! Below is a look at each team's bullpen situation going into spring training. In addition to projected closers, you'll see late-inning pitchers to keep in mind, as well as some sleepers who may end up being waiver wire gold during the 2025 MLB season. We'll be updating this page throughout spring training, as we'll surely see some more transactions as well as unexpected injuries, so check back often going into your fantasy baseball drafts! 2025 PROJECTED SAVES LEADERS Emmanuel Clase, CLE - 41 Josh Hader, HOU - 36 Raisel Iglesias, ATL - 36 Devin Williams, NYY - 34 Ryan Helsley, STL - 34 Edwin Díaz, NYM - 34 Robert Suarez, SD - 33 Jeff Hoffman, TOR - 32 Félix Bautista, BAL - 32 Jhoan Duran, MIN - 31 AMERICAN LEAGUE BULLPENS Closer: Mason Miller Next in line: José Leclerc Setup man: Michel Otañez Name to watch: Tyler Ferguson Mason Miller's transition into the bullpen went as well as it could possibly go, turning the injury-prone starting prospect into the most dominant and electric closer in the game. The 26-year-old right-hander turned in a 2.49 ERA, 0.88 WHIP, and 104 strikeouts across 65 innings while converting 28 saves. By pitching in shorter outings, Miller sustained his 101 mile-per-hour fastball all season, generating a 19.6% swinging-strike rate and leading qualified relievers with a 41.8% strikeout rate. The case can certainly be made for Miller as the top closer in baseball. Behind him, the team fortified the back end of the bullpen by signing José Leclerc to a one-year, $10 million contract. Leclerc, Tyler Ferguson, and Michel Otañez all posted at least a 30% strikeout rate last season and will bridge the way to the ninth inning. Otañez displayed the best skills of the bunch, but Leclerc comes with closing experience and should be first in line to back up Miller for closing duties. Closer: Félix Bautista Next in line: Andrew Kittredge Setup man: Seranthony Domínguez Name to watch: Yennier Cano The Orioles had signed Craig Kimbrel to fill the ninth-inning void left by Félix Bautista, who missed the 2024 season recovering from Tommy John surgery. Kimbrel converted 23 saves with a 2.80 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, and 53 strikeouts through the All-Star break. He failed to record a save in the second half, crumbling to a 10.59 ERA and losing closing duties before he was ultimately released. Seranthony Domínguez was acquired from the Phillies and stepped in to close 10 games down the stretch. Domínguez remained with the club on a one-year, $8 million option and will be joined by Andrew Kittredge for setup duties behind Bautista. The team signed Kittredge to a one-year, $10 million contract after an excellent season with the Cardinals. Baltimore will be careful in ramping up Bautista as the 29-year-old right-hander returns this spring. When we last saw him, he was the top closer in baseball, posting a 1.48 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, and 110 strikeouts over 61 innings in 2023. Closer: Liam Hendriks Next in line: Aroldis Chapman Setup man: Justin Slaten Name to watch: Garrett Whitlock The Red Sox got another productive season out of veteran Kenley Jansen. The 37-year-old right-hander posted a 3.29 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, and 62 strikeouts over 54 2/3 innings while converting 27 saves. Behind him, Chris Martin and Justin Slaten were effective in setup roles. With Jansen and Martin departing in free agency, the team signed Aroldis Chapman to a one-year, $10.75 million contract. Boston will also be relying on Liam Hendriks in high-leverage innings. He pitched just five innings in 2023 before undergoing Tommy John surgery. Slaten, Chapman, and Hendriks will be battling for the closer role this spring. Slaten had an excellent 2024, posting a 2.93 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, and 58 strikeouts across 55 1/3 innings. Chapman pitched well in the second half with the Pirates after a slow start, posting a 3.33 ERA, 1.00 WHIP, and 42 strikeouts over 27 innings following the All-Star break. The 36-year-old left-hander brings 335 career saves. Though, he's been a bit volatile and inconsistent at this stage of his career. And there's no telling what we'll get from Hendriks now two years removed from his last full season. Garrett Whitlock will also join the bullpen and could be a dark horse candidate to pick up saves throughout the season. This is one situation to monitor this spring. Closer: Justin Anderson Next in line: Prelander Berroa Setup man: Fraser Ellard Name to watch: Gus Varland The White Sox bullpen contributed to the team's historic 121-loss season, posting a collective 4.73 ERA that was third-worst in the majors and converting just 21 of 58 save opportunities. Michael Kopech led the way with nine saves before he was traded to the Dodgers. No other reliever converted more than two saves, with nine pitchers recording at least one. The 2025 outlook doesn't look much better. Of the returning relievers, Justin Anderson has the most experience pitching high-leverage innings for the team. He wasn't very effective, posting a 4.39 ERA with five blown saves in 2024. Prelander Berroa recorded a 3.32 ERA with a 31.3% strikeout rate over 19 innings with the White Sox last season and throws the hardest in the bullpen with a 97.7 mph fastball. But a pitcher can only get away with a 15.7% walk rate for so long. Gus Varland could be another name to watch. He pitched well late in the season, giving Chicago a 3.54 ERA and a 24/4 K/BB ratio across 20 1/3 innings. Closer: Emmanuel Clase Next in line: Paul Sewald Setup man: Cade Smith Name to watch: Hunter Gaddis Led by Emmanuel Clase, the Guardians bullpen as a whole posted a league-best 2.57 ERA. Clase finished the season as the top closer in baseball, converting 47 saves with a 0.61 ERA, 0.66 WHIP, and 66 strikeouts over 74 1/3 innings. When it comes to saves, there's no one more bankable than Clase, who recorded his third consecutive 40-save season. The 26-year-old right-hander has seen his strikeout rate dip to under a strikeout per inning over the last couple of seasons, but he's remained effective with elite walk rates and generating weak contact. Cade Smith emerged as one of the top relievers in baseball, posting a 1.91 ERA, 0.90 WHIP, and 103 strikeouts over 75 1/3 innings. He'll serve as one of the team's primary setup men after recording 26 holds. Paul Sewald joined the team on a one-year, $6 million deal. The 34-year-old veteran gives Cleveland some closing experience behind Clase. He and Hunter Gaddis round out the back end of a bullpen that should be among the best in baseball once again. Closer: Jason Foley Next in line: Beau Brieske Setup man: Tyler Holton Name to watch: Tommy Kahnle The Tigers bullpen put together a top-five ERA at 3.55, led by Jason Foley, who posted a 3.15 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, and 46 strikeouts over 60 innings. The 29-year-old right-hander struggles to miss bats, as his strikeout rate was the lowest among all relievers with at least 10 saves. It led to some volatility throughout the season, which opened the door for Tyler Holton to step in for eight saves. Beau Brieske was another valuable, versatile reliever for Detroit, starting 12 games as an opener, recording six holds, and converting one save. He'll have a presence in the back end of the bullpen. Veteran Tommy Kahnle joined the team on a one-year, $7.75 million contract. He had an excellent season with the Yankees, recording 16 holds with a 2.11 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, and 46 strikeouts across 42 2/3 innings. While Holton and Brieske could figure into the saves mix, the incumbent closer Foley goes into the season as the favorite to lead the team in save chances. However, his lower strikeout rate could lead to a short leash if he struggles, potentially clouding the situation. Closer: Josh Hader Next in line: Bryan Abreu Setup man: Tayler Scott Name to watch: Bryan King The Astros made a splash last offseason bringing Josh Hader in to take over as the team's closer. He had a stellar season, converting 34 saves with a 3.80 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, and 105 strikeouts across 71 innings. Few relievers can match Hader's strikeout ability. The 30-year-old led the majors in swinging-strike rate at 20.5%. His ERA wasn't spectacular and is the product of a higher walk rate and home run luck, a trend we've seen throughout his career. But he remains among the top closers in baseball. Ryan Pressly converted four saves behind Hader and was traded to the Cubs. This clears the way for Bryan Abreu, perennially one of the best setup men in baseball, to be next in line for saves in Houston. Abreu posted a 3.10 ERA and struck out 103 batters across 78 1/3 innings, his second consecutive 100-strikeout season out of the bullpen. Tayler Scott and Bryan King round out the back end of the bullpen. King posted a 2.39 ERA with 32 strikeouts across his first 26 1/3 innings of major league action. Closer: Carlos Estévez Next in line: Lucas Erceg Setup man: Hunter Harvey Name to watch: John Schreiber James McArthur started the season as the Royals closer, converting 18 saves before he was relegated to middle relief and finished with a 4.92 ERA. Kansas City acquired Lucas Erceg from the Athletics at the trade deadline and Erceg went on to save 11 games with a 2.88 ERA and a 31/3 K/BB ratio across 25 innings with the team, showing elite closer potential. Despite his emergence, Kansas City brought in Carlos Estévez on a two-year, $20.2 million contract. Estévez has worked as a closer with the Angels and Phillies over the last two seasons, converting 56 saves. He finished the year with a 2.45 ERA across 55 innings. While Erceg certainly displayed the best skills in the Royals bullpen, Estévez will likely be the favorite to enter the season as the primary closer. The two present a vast upgrade for the Royals in the back end of the bullpen. Hunter Harvey and John Schreiber round out the group of high-leverage relievers. Closer: Kenley Jansen Next in line: Ben Joyce Setup man: Ryan Zeferjhan Name to watch: Robert Stephenson Carlos Estévez went into the season as the Angels closer after securing 31 saves for the team in 2023. He converted 20 with a 2.38 ERA before joining the Phillies at the trade deadline. Ben Joyce emerged to close out games, converting four saves before finishing the season on the injured list with shoulder inflammation. The 24-year-old right-hander posted a 2.08 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, and 33 strikeouts over 34 2/3 innings. Given his injury risk and lack of experience, it's no surprise the team went the veteran route and added Kenley Jansen on a one-year, $10 million deal. The 37-year-old right-hander will step in to close as he looks to add to his 447 career save total. Still, Joyce should remain next in line and the primary setup option. And Robert Stephenson is targeting a May return. He should be in the mix for late-inning work after missing the year recovering from Tommy John surgery. Closer: Jhoan Duran Next in line: Griffin Jax Setup man: Cole Sands Name to watch: Brock Stewart Jhoan Duran missed the first month of the season with an oblique injury, making his debut on April 30. With the late start, his skills took a step back before recovering in the second half, seeing his swinging-strike rate jump from 12.6% to 16.6% after the All-Star break. The 27-year-old right-hander totaled 23 saves with a 3.64 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, and 66 strikeouts over 54 1/3 innings. His ERA indicators, including a 2.85 FIP, suggest he pitched much better than the surface stats. With elite underlying skills intact, Duran is in line for a bounce-back season. Griffin Jax emerged as one of baseball's top relievers, recording 24 holds and 10 saves with a 2.03 ERA, 0.87 WHIP, and 95 strikeouts over 71 innings. Jax will be one of the league's top setup men, accumulating holds and strikeouts while stepping in for occasional saves. Cole Sands, Brock Steward, Jorge Alcala, and Danny Coulombe round out an impressive group in the middle innings. Closer: Devin Williams Next in line: Luke Weaver Setup man: Ian Hamilton Name to watch: Fernando Cruz Clay Holmes got off to an incredible start as the Yankees closer, posting a 2.77 ERA in the first half that included 20 consecutive scoreless appearances. He was much more volatile in the second half as he struggled to close out games. A stretch of blown saves cost him the closer role as Luke Weaver stepped in to convert four saves in September and four more in the postseason. Weaver made a successful move from starter to reliever, posting a 2.89 ERA over 84 innings out of the bullpen for the Yankees. With Holmes leaving in free agency, New York made a significant move in acquiring Devin Williams from the Brewers. Williams missed the first several months with a back injury but returned with elite skills in place, converting 14 saves with a 1.25 ERA and 38 strikeouts over 21 2/3 innings. With one of the game's best closers in place, Weaver returns to a setup role. Meanwhile, Ian Hamilton and Fernando Cruz are in line for work in the middle innings. Cruz was acquired from the Reds in December and brings an impressive 37.8% strikeout rate. D.J. Short, Closer: Andrés Muñoz Next in line: Colin Snider Setup man: Gregory Santos Name to watch: Matt Brash Andrés Muñoz put together another outstanding season with the Mariners, posting a 2.12 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, and 77 strikeouts over 59 1/3 innings while converting 22 saves. While his skills have remained consistent through the last several seasons, his health has not. While he never saw time on the injured list, the 26-year-old right-hander reportedly battled through a lower back strain for much of the first half. This allowed Ryne Stanek to step in for seven saves to lighten the load for Muñoz. Though Muñoz went on to convert seven of the team's eight second-half saves. With health, he could be one of the top closers and in line to set a new career-high in saves. Behind him, Seattle has a relatively deep bullpen, with Collin Snider, Gregory Santos, Trent Thornton, and Tayler Saucedo capable of stepping into high-leverage work. Matt Brash should be set to return early in the season after missing 2024 with Tommy John surgery and has the most strikeout upside among the returning relievers. Closer: Pete Fairbanks Next in line: Edwin Uceta Setup man: Garrett Cleavinger Name to watch: Hunter Bigge Injuries continue to hold Pete Fairbanks back. The 31-year-old right-hander was placed on the injured list early in the season with a nerve issue, then again in August with a lat strain, limiting him to 45 1/3 innings. He also saw some slippage in his skills, ending the year with a 3.57 ERA and a career-low 23.8% strikeout rate while converting 23 saves. With a 2026 club option on his contract, Fairbanks could potentially find himself on the move at some point this season. The health factor, skills decline, and trade speculation make him one of the most volatile and risky closers. In typical fashion, the Rays spread the rest of the save chances, with 12 other relievers converting at least one save. Edwin Uceta ended the season with five saves down the stretch and figures to be the top name to watch behind Fairbanks after breaking out to a 1.51 ERA, 0.82 WHIP, and a 57/8 K/BB ratio across 41 2/3 innings. Garrett Cleavinger and Manuel Rodríguez also notched saves in 2024 and should return in a high-leverage capacity. Meanwhile, Mason Montgomery and Hunter Bigge are relievers to watch as they flashed immense strikeout upside in small samples. Closer: Chris Martin Next in line: Robert Garcia Setup man: Jacob Webb Name to watch: Jon Gray Kirby Yates returned to form as an elite closer with the Rangers, posting a 1.17 ERA, 0.83 WHIP, and 85 strikeouts over 61 2/3 innings while converting 33-of-34 save chances. David Robertson was excellent in a setup role behind Yates with 34 holds and a 3.00 ERA. The two left a massive hole to fill in the late innings as they departed for free agency, with Yates signing on with the Dodgers. Texas hopes to find the same veteran magic in Chris Martin, who they signed on a one-year, $5.5 million contract. The 38-year-old right-hander posted a 3.45 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, and an impressive 50/3 K/BB ratio across 44 1/3 innings with the Red Sox last season. Martin is the current frontrunner to start the season as the closer. Robert Garcia and Jacob Webb line up for setup duties. And Jon Gray could be someone to watch as he's expressed an openness to closing games. He pitched seven innings in relief last season, giving up one run with a 10/2 K/BB ratio. Closer: Jeff Hoffman Next in line: Chad Green Setup man: Yimi García Name to watch: Erik Swanson Jordan Romano went into the season as one of the game's top closers, coming off back-to-back 36-save seasons. Elbow issues limited him to 13 2/3 innings as he was on and off the injured list. Chad Green led the team in saves with 17 while posting a 3.21 ERA across 53 1/3 innings. With Romano departing for Philadelphia, Toronto signed Jeff Hoffman to a three-year, $33 million contract to take over as closer for the Blue Jays. Hoffman has transformed into one of the league's best relievers over the last few seasons. He recorded a 2.17 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, and 89 strikeouts over 66 1/3 innings while converting 10 saves for the Phillies in 2024. There was speculation surrounding his health during the free-agency process as some teams considered signing him as a starter. Those concerns may be overblown as he showed no signs of wearing down throughout the season. With health, Hoffman has top-10 closer upside. Yimi García returns to the team on a two-year, $15 million deal, joining Green for setup duties. NATIONAL LEAGUE BULLPENS Closer: Justin Martinez Co-closer: A.J. Puk Setup man: Kevin Ginkel Name to watch: Drey Jameson The Diamondbacks' closer situation was a volatile one in 2024. Paul Sewald started the season on the injured list with an oblique strain. Kevin Ginkel stepped in for five saves in Sewald's absence. The 34-year-old right-hander returned in May and had a strong two months, recording 11 of his 16 saves through June before things unraveled in July. Sewald was relegated to middle relief over the final two months, with Justin Martinez taking the lead with eight saves down the stretch. A.J. Puk was an excellent addition at the trade deadline and was lights out for Arizona, posting a 1.32 ERA, 0.73 WHIP, and a 43/5 K/BB ratio across 27 1/3 innings with the team. With Sewald departing for Cleveland in free agency, Martinez and Puk could operate in a matchup-based committee, with Puk dominating left-handed batters and Martinez pitching from the right side. We've seen this trend from the Diamondbacks over the last several seasons, as the last reliever with more than 20 saves for the team was Brad Boxberger, with 32 in 2018. Former starting prospect Drey Jameson is set to return as a reliever coming off Tommy John surgery and is a potential name to watch down the line. He has the fastball velocity and swing-and-miss slider that could flourish in the bullpen. Closer: Raisel Iglesias Next in line: Pierce Johnson Setup man: Aaron Bummer Name to watch: Dylan Lee It was another stellar season for Raisel Iglesias. The 35-year-old right-hander continued his run as one of the top closers with a 1.95 ERA, 0.74 WHIP, and 68 strikeouts over 69 1/3 innings while converting 34 saves. He did see his strikeout rate dip, particularly over the first two months. But his swing-and-miss skills recovered in June, with his strikeout rate bouncing back through the rest of the season. Iglesias is about as safe as they come from a saves perspective. Behind him, Pierce Johnson, Aaron Bummer, and Dylan Lee figure to be in line for high-leverage work in the middle and late innings, with Johnson first in line to step in for saves when needed. Veteran right-hander Joe Jiménez had an excellent season in a setup role, collecting 27 holds, but is expected to miss most of the season after undergoing left knee surgery in November. Closer: Ryan Pressly Next in line: Porter Hodge Setup man: Tyson Miller Name to watch: Nate Pearson The Cubs were forced to turn to Héctor Neris in the ninth inning after Adbert Alzolay was lost for the season to a forearm injury. Neris converted 17-of-22 save chances but was incredibly volatile, leading to his release in August. Porter Hodge stepped up down the stretch, taking over for nine saves. The 23-year-old right-hander was impressive in his rookie season, posting a 1.88 ERA, 0.88 WHIP, and 52 strikeouts over 43 innings. Despite flashing excellent closer upside, he'll likely begin the season in a setup role as the team acquired veteran closer Ryan Pressly from the Astros. Pressly served as Houston's closer for four seasons before taking a back seat to Josh Hader in 2024. The 36-year-old right-hander has seen his skills slip over the last couple of seasons, with his strikeout rate seeing a steady decline. Still, he'll get the first chance to operate as the Cubs' closer, with Hodge waiting in the wings should Pressly stumble. Tyson Miller and Nate Pearson should round out the group in the middle innings, while Ben Brown is a potential name to watch should he make the move from starter to reliever. Closer: Alexis Díaz Next in line: Taylor Rogers Setup man: Tony Santillan Name to watch: Emilio Pagán Over the prior two seasons, Alexis Díaz was able to mask severe walk issues with excellent strikeout rates. Lower velocity and a decline in swinging strikes led to a 22.7% strikeout rate, down from 30.1% in 2023. The result was a 3.99 ERA and 1.30 WHIP. Still, the 28-year-old right-hander was able to convert 28 saves for the Reds. While he'll go into the season as the set closer looking to bounce back, there's some downside risk if the strikeouts don't return as a high walk rate and fly ball tendency don't mix well in Cincinnati. The team acquired veteran left-hander Taylor Rogers from the Giants, who comes in with some prior closing experience, recording 83 career saves. But the most interesting reliever in the bullpen behind Díaz might be Tony Santillan. Santillan flashed impressive upside last season with a 3.00 ERA, 1.00 WHIP, and a 46/9 K/BB ratio across 30 innings. In contrast to Díaz, this came with a significant increase in his fastball velocity while limiting free passes with a 7.4% walk rate. He'll be a reliever to watch should Díaz struggle to close out games. Closer: Tyler Kinley Next in line: Seth Halvorsen Setup man: Victor Vodnik Name to watch: Luis Peralta Chasing saves in the Rockies bullpen proved to be futile once again. Tyler Kinley led the way in saves with 12, but it came with a 6.19 ERA and 1.47 WHIP over 64 innings. Jalen Beeks and Victor Vodnik each recorded nine saves but didn't fare much better. Kinley goes into the season as the favorite to open as the team's closer, but it could be a competition we'll have to see play out this spring. Kinley also comes with some injury risk after ending the season on the injured list with elbow inflammation. With such a fragile hold on the ninth-inning role, Seth Halvorsen could be the name to watch after he flashed some upside with a 100 mph fastball, posting a 1.46 ERA, 0.81 WHIP, and a 13/2 K/BB ratio across a small 12 1/3 inning sample. Left-hander Luis Peralta was equally impressive in his debut, giving up one run with a 14/5 K/BB ratio over 12 1/3 frames. Fantasy managers desperate for saves in deep leagues could be better off chasing the skills rather than the presumptive roles in this bullpen. Closer: Tanner Scott Next in line: Kirby Yates Setup: Blake Treinen Names to watch: Michael Kopech, Evan Phillips After securing 24 saves for the Dodgers in 2023, Evan Phillips earned the bulk of the save chances to start the season. Struggles in July relegated him to middle relief duties while Daniel Hudson and Michael Kopech, acquired at the trade deadline, combined for 16 saves the rest of the way. Los Angeles made some significant upgrades to the bullpen this winter, signing left-hander Tanner Scott to a four-year, $72 million contract and Kirby Yates on a one-year, $13 million deal. Scott, regarded as the best reliever on the free-agent market, is coming off an incredible season after posting a 1.75 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, and 84 strikeouts over 72 innings. Yates returned to form with a 1.17 ERA, 0.83 WHIP, and 85 strikeouts over 61 2/3 innings while converting 33 saves with the Rangers. According to manager Dave Roberts, Scott is expected to get the 'bulk' of the save chances going into the season. However, we could see some mixing and matching based on hitter handedness. And closers haven't exactly had a long leash since Kenley Jansen's departure in 2021. Regardless, the top relievers in the Dodgers bullpen should return solid fantasy value as they're likely to come away with a share of both wins and saves. Closer: Calvin Faucher Next in line: Jesus Tinoco Setup man: Anthony Bender Name to watch: Andrew Nardi Before joining the Dodgers at the trade deadline, Tanner Scott had locked down 18 saves for the Marlins while posting a 1.18 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, and 53 strikeouts over 45 2/3 innings with the team. With Scott gone, Calvin Faucher led the way with six saves over the final two months, with Jesus Tinoco behind him at three saves. Faucher delivered a 3.19 ERA, 1.40 WHIP, and 63 strikeouts across 53 2/3 innings. Tinoco posted similar production, with a 3.32 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, and 42 strikeouts over 40 2/3 innings. While Faucher had a better strikeout rate, Tinoco did better at limiting walks. The two are expected to compete for the closer role this spring, with the incumbent Faucher being the current favorite. Anthony Bender could also find himself in the mix, as his underlying skills showed a better pitcher than the 4.08 ERA indicates. Closer: Trevor Megill Next in line: Joel Payamps Setup man: Jared Koeing Name to watch: Aaron Ashby Devin Williams didn't debut until July 28, as he missed the first half of the season with a stress fracture in his back. The Brewers cycled through a few relievers before settling on Trevor Megill for closing duties in Williams' absence. Megill filled in nicely, converting 21 saves with a 2.72 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, and 50 strikeouts over 46 1/3 innings. He landed on the injured list with back issues of his own as Williams returned in late July. Williams was excellent upon his return, ending the season with 14 saves and a 1.25 ERA, 0.97 WHIP, and 38 strikeouts over 21 2/3 innings. With Williams now a Yankee, Megill will get an opportunity to operate as the primary closer in Milwaukee. Joel Payamps has been an effective reliever throughout his career and could step in to close when needed. And while DL Hall and Aaron Ashby are expected to be stretched out as potential starters this spring, either could be more effective out of the bullpen as they posted better numbers in relief last season. Ashby, in particular, posted a 1.37 ERA with a 28/3 K/BB ratio across 19 2/3 innings in relief. Eric Samulski, Closer: Edwin Díaz Next in line: A.J. Minter Setup man: José Buttó Name to watch: Dedniel Nuñez Edwin Díaz returned to action after missing the 2023 season with a knee injury sustained during the World Baseball Classic. The 30-year-old right-hander showed diminished velocity in his first month. A stretch of blown saves landed him on the injured list with a shoulder injury. Díaz returned three weeks later with his velocity back and was outstanding through the rest of the season, with a 2.41 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, and 54 strikeouts over 33 2/3 innings, ending the year with 20 saves. After the strong finish, Díaz is back to elite closer status and is worth a selection among the top five relievers. The Mets added some depth behind their closer, signing long-time setup man A.J. Minter to a two-year, $22 million contract. José Buttó was impressive in his move to the bullpen and should remain in the late-inning mix. And Dedniel Nuñez emerged as a middle reliever on the rise with 35 impressive innings, delivering a 2.31 ERA and 48 strikeouts across 35 innings. Closer: Jordan Romano Next in line: Orion Kerkering Setup man: Matt Strahm Name to watch: José Alvarado José Alvarado and Jeff Hoffman alternated turns at the ninth-inning role through the first four months of the season until the Phillies acquired Carlos Estévez at the trade deadline. Estévez took over at closer, recording six saves down the stretch. In the end, Alvarado led the team with 13 but struggled through the season with a 4.09 ERA and 1.25 WHIP over 61 2/3 innings while producing a career-low strikeout rate. With Estévez and Hoffman departing in free agency, the team signed veteran Jordan Romano to a one-year, $8.5 million contract. Elbow issues limited Romano to 13 2/3 innings with the Blue Jays in what was mostly a lost season. The 31-year-old right-hander was one of baseball's top closers over the previous three seasons, accumulating 95 saves with a 2.37 ERA from 2021-2023. He's set to get the first chance to establish himself as the team's closer, with Orion Kerkering operating as the primary setup man and closer-in-waiting. Kerkering had a fantastic first season in the majors, delivering a 2.29 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, and 74 strikeouts over 63 innings. Matt Strahm has also proven to be a valuable high-leverage reliever, adding three saves, 18 holds, and six wins in 2024. Closer: David Bednar Next in line: Dennis Santana Setup man: Colin Holderman Name to watch: Kyle Nicolas It was a tumultuous season for David Bednar. He struggled out of the gate after missing most of spring training with a lat injury and posted a 5.77 ERA and 1.42 WHIP across 57 2/3 innings while converting 23-of-30 save chances. He ultimately lost the closer role to Aroldis Chapman and was relegated to setup duties. Chapman secured 14 saves for the team before departing for Boston in free agency. With Chapman gone, Bednar is expected to return to the ninth-inning role with a decent chance to bounce back given his track record. There doesn't appear to be anyone from a skills perspective to challenge for the closer role, but Dennis Santana and Colin Holderman should return as solid setup men. Santana did record three saves last season and displayed the better skills of the two, making him more likely to fill in as closer if needed. Closer: Robert Suarez Next in line: Jason Adam Setup man: Jeremiah Estrada Name to watch: Adrian Morejon Robert Suarez finished the season as one of the top closers in baseball, converting 36 saves with a 2.77 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, and 59 strikeouts over 65 innings. The addition of Tanner Scott at the trade deadline gave the Padres one of the best bullpens in baseball, with Jason Adam, Jeremiah Estrada, and Adrian Morejon turning in outstanding seasons. Despite Scott signing with the Dodgers, San Diego retains plenty of bullpen depth. And while Suarez is in line to close for the Padres, that depth could make him expendable via trade as speculation has swirled around him this offseason. Adam figures to be next in line as things stand. He posted a 1.95 ERA, 0.86 WHIP, and 81 strikeouts across 73 2/3 innings. Estrada brings the higher velocity and strikeout stuff as he collected 94 punchouts across 61 frames. Morejon, a former starting prospect, was excellent in his first full season as a reliever. With so much depth and holes to fill in the lineup, it would not be surprising to see San Diego shop a reliever or two over the coming months. Closer: Ryan Walker Next in line: Camilo Doval Setup man: Tyler Rogers Name to watch: Erik Miller It was a bit of a surprise to see Camilo Doval struggle so much after two excellent seasons. An inflated walk rate, at 14.4%, was too much to overcome as Doval produced a 4.88 ERA across 59 innings, earning him a stint in the minors and losing the closer role. Ryan Walker emerged as a lock-down option, picking up 10 saves with a 1.91 ERA, 0.85 WHIP, and 99 strikeouts over 80 innings. The team has indicated that Walker will get an opportunity to run with the ninth-inning job this season. The 29-year-old right-hander has an excellent combination of skills across the board and could be in line for plenty of saves. Doval will operate as a setup man but could step in for saves when needed. Tyler Rogers and Erik Miller should round out the back end of the bullpen. And it will be interesting to see if Jordan Hicks can maintain a spot in the starting rotation. He made 20 starts last season before shifting to the bullpen over the final two months. Closer: Ryan Helsley Next in line: Ryan Fernandez Setup man: JoJo Romero Name to watch: Matthew Liberatore After he was limited to 36 2/3 innings in 2023, Helsley put the injury concern behind him with an outstanding season, converting a league-leading 49 saves with a 2.04 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, and 79 strikeouts across 66 1/3 frames. And Helsley only got better as the season went on as he saw his strikeout rate jump in the second half while lowering his walk rate, posting a 17.9% K-BB ratio in the first half and a 26.9% mark after the All-Star break. He's undoubtedly among the top 5-6 closers. The team will be looking for someone to step up into primary setup duties after Andrew Kittredge departed for Baltimore in free agency. Ryan Fernandez and JoJo Romero had solid seasons in middle relief, with Romero recording 30 holds. Fernandez generates more whiffs and as the right-hander is likely to be next in line if needed for saves. Matthew Liberatore was effective as a reliever but could be stretched back out as a starter this spring. Closer: Jorge Lopez Next in line: Derek Law Setup man: Jose Ferrer Name to watch: Eduardo Salazar Despite not having the most stellar skillset, Kyle Finnegan got the job done in the ninth inning for the Nationals, converting 38 of the team's 40 saves while recording a 3.68 ERA, 1.34 WHIP, and 60 strikeouts across 63 2/3 innings. Surprisingly, the team non-tendered him, making him a free agent and leaving a hole to fill at closer. Outside of bringing veteran Jorge López in on a one-year, $3 million contract, the team has done little to replace Finnegan. López does have the most closing experience in the bullpen with 31 career saves. He pitched well last season with the Mets and Cubs, posting a 2.89 ERA and 1.23 WHIP across 53 innings, and figures to get the first chance at closing for the Nationals. Derek Law and Jose Ferrer could be two other relievers in the mix.
