We’ve had fairly a busy offseason in the case of reliever motion, with many offers happening in simply the previous month or in order that have shaken issues up within the nearer ranks. We at the moment are about six weeks out from opening day, and there are nonetheless loads of questions relating to potential closers and potential nearer committees across the league. I believe for now there are ten closers I really feel principally snug with rostering as precise “closers” after which there are a bunch of “properly if they’re closing and wholesome…” choices, so you might be in all probability going to need to take a type of first ten closers if you’re in a save solely league. We can have extra info to work inside a couple of month, however for now, that is how I’d go about rating the highest 50 closers.
• Notes are from my 2025 Nearer Preview again in October, with some February updates added under
Notes
Tier 1 (The Elite, Full Bundle Nearer)
1. Emmanuel Clase (CLE) – Clase is coming off a historic yr that noticed him end the season with a ridiculous 0.61 ERA (2.81 xFIP), 0.66 WHIP, and 47 saves. The one actual criticism we are able to make about Clase is his lack of strikeouts, however then you definitely see his 146 Stuff+, 5.63 PLV (first in baseball), and 36.8% Chase fee, it demonstrates that he CAN be amongst the strikeout leaderboards, he simply doesn’t must be with the intention to dominate (type of like how Ichiro might have hit extra dwelling runs).
His cutter’s induced vertical break (iVB, 10.7″), whole break (11.5″), and height-adjusted vertical assault angle (HAVAA, 0.8°) are all ninetieth percentile or higher, and oh yeah, he averages 99.5 MPH with it, which all thought of makes Clase’s cutter one of the vital dominant pitches in baseball. His 29.7% hard-hit, 57.8% ground-ball, and three.7% stroll charges give him an exceptionally excessive ground and make Clase possibly the one nearer I’m keen to declare as a protected draft decide in 2025.
2025 UPDATE: He’s the closest factor we’ve got to a “protected nearer”, and doubtless the one one I’d really feel snug spending a prime 50 decide on.
2. Edwin Díaz (NYM) – Díaz completed the yr with “simply” a 38.9% strikeout fee, which is the second lowest strikeout fee for him since 2017, though his 38.9% strikeout fee was the fifth highest amongst relievers this season. That’s simply how good Díaz has been all through his profession and whereas he did get off to a sluggish begin as he was getting back from lacking the entire 2023 season, he was in a position to decide issues up within the second half. Díaz held a 44.3% strikeout fee (35% Ok-BB fee) within the second half, greatest amongst closers, together with a 1.82 SIERA that trailed solely Jhoan Duran’s 1.74.
Díaz’s fastball has a implausible 1.9° HAVAA, which in flip usually results in excessive whiff charges on his slider, nonetheless, his whiff fee was down this season as he struggled with some diminished velocity early on. The speed did come again within the second half although, and I believe it’s protected to say Díaz is primed to be a top-five nearer as soon as once more subsequent season in what could possibly be a contract yr for himself.
2025 UPDATE: Diaz was so good within the second half, I belief him a bit of bit greater than the remainder of this tier with Williams shifting to a brand new group and Bautista getting back from TJS.
3. Josh Hader (HOU) – Hader had a little bit of a tumultuous first season in Houston as he completed with a 3.80 ERA on the yr however I’m optimistic that quantity will enhance in 2025. The stuff remains to be electrical and continues to idiot hitters at an elite fee with a 31.9% Z-O fee, 22% swinging-strike fee, and 5.49 PLV. His “sinker” isn’t overpowering velocity-wise however it will get elite iVB (18.7″) and HAVAA (1.5°) which his slider (60.2% whiff fee) can play off of properly.
Hader has by no means been one to suppress arduous contact at a excessive stage (10.2% barrel fee) and he doesn’t do an awesome job preserving the ball on the bottom (29.9% ground-ball fee) so his transfer to Minute Maid Park will doubtless end in seasons nearer to the three.80 ERA than his 1.28 mark in 2023. With some higher luck subsequent yr, that ERA ought to simply be lowered and we aren’t complaining concerning the WHIP or strikeouts.
2025 UPDATE: Hader is engaged on fixing his mechanics, and possibly we lastly see that changeup this yr. All excellent news.
4. Devin Williams (NYY) – Whereas Clase lacks in strikeouts, Williams excels as his 43.2% strikeout fee in 2024 would have been the very best in baseball if he certified. Nevertheless, that bat-missing potential did include a 12.5% stroll fee, which is definitely fairly constant for Williams, who has completed with a stroll fee within the 12% vary yearly since 2021. His “Airbender” changeup stays among the best pitches within the sport with 19.7″ induced horizontal break (iHB) and one way or the other a 2720 rpm spin fee, so it consistently will get whiffs. Williams will get elite extension (7.3′) and the intense motion from his changeup actually retains hitters off steadiness, resulting in nice hard-hit metrics as properly (32.4% hard-hit fee).
Williams additionally completed with a formidable 2.62 xFIP and a couple of.31 SIERA this previous season, each of which might have been prime 10 amongst relievers. Williams did throw his changeup much less this yr, (down 13%) and ideally, I’d favor him round a 50/50 cut up along with his fastball and changeup (just like Edwin Díaz along with his fastball and slider) however thats nitpicking. There’s extra volatility right here than Clase (particularly if traded), however I don’t suppose it might shock anybody if Williams completed as the highest nearer given his upside.
2025 UPDATE: Williams was certainly traded, winding up with the Yankees again in December. I don’t suppose the transfer ought to harm Williams an excessive amount of regardless of shifting to a brand new atmosphere in a harder ballpark inside a extra proficient division.
5. Félix Bautista (BAL) – Bautista missed all of 2024 as he rehabbed from Tommy John, however he’s anticipated to be prepared for spring coaching, and let’s shortly simply bear in mind his otherwordly 2023. Bautista led all relievers with a 46.4% strikeout fee and was second in swinging-strike fee with a 22.7% mark. When wholesome, he’s only a bat-missing machine as his fastball sits at 99.5 MPH with 19.9 iVB whereas his splitter holds a 60.2% whiff fee.
Whereas Bautista arguably has the very best stuff of any nearer, he might be coming off a significant surgical procedure and he already had some command points to start with so a sluggish begin wouldn’t be stunning to see in 2025. That mentioned, there actually isn’t any ceiling with him, so identical to with Williams (and anybody on this tier actually), I might not be shocked if Bautista finishes the yr as the highest fantasy nearer.
2025 UPDATE: Whereas Bautista is predicted to be prepared by opening day, the group will play issues sluggish with him to begin, so we might not see him on again to backs till Might/June. That shouldn’t be too large of a difficulty.
6. Mason Miller (A’s) – Miller completed his rookie season with a 1.91 SIERA, 33.3% strikeout-to-walk ratio, and 21% swinging-strike fee which have been all prime three amongst certified relievers. Miller was significantly better within the first half nonetheless as he posted a 38.5% CSW (29.6% 2nd half), 1.80 xFIP (2.86 2nd half), and a 46.7% strikeout fee (34.3% 2nd-half strikeout fee). These clearly aren’t horrible numbers within the second half, however it’s a pattern going the incorrect method, and for Miller to supply top-five worth, he’ll doubtless want these first-half numbers because the A’s might make it arduous for him to interrupt the 30 save mark.
We’re additionally nonetheless a bit of uncertain of what Miller’s position might be long-term, however I’d think about we see him within the nearer position for a minimum of another season maybe earlier than shifting into the rotation. Irrespective of the position, we’d nonetheless be fortunate to have Miller pitching on our fantasy groups as his upside stays by means of the roof.
2025 UPDATE: The A’s have truly improved their roster this offseason and Miller is locked into the nearer position. Now if we are able to simply get 2024 1st half Mason Miller for a full season…
Tier 2 (Nice, principally Reliable Closers)
7. Andrés Muñoz (SEA) – Muñoz put collectively one other nice season, his first as Mariners nearer, and whereas he nonetheless hasn’t fairly hit that ceiling we as soon as pictured, he’s nonetheless among the best relievers round. He remained a bat-missing machine in 2024 with a 35.3% CSW, which now makes it three straight seasons for Muñoz with a CSW over 35%. He was even higher within the second half of the season, ending with a 38.8% strikeout fee, and a couple of.44 xFIP. Muñoz completed with a 56% ground-ball fee this season too, so regardless of some hard-hit considerations, he’s a minimum of in a position to maintain the ball on the bottom nearly all of the time.
Whereas the slider is the dominant pitch right here, it completed with a 48.5% whiff fee this yr (three seasons in a row now at 48%+), the fastball ain’t too shabby both averaging 98.4 MPH with a 1.6° HAVAA. With Scott Servais out as supervisor, maybe Muñoz will lastly be capable of run free as he did decide up the entire saves for the Mariners after Servais was fired (Troy Taylor had one over the past collection of the yr with Muñoz shut down).
8. Jhoan Duran (MIN) – Duran was in an identical state of affairs as Muñoz, as he too shared the nearer position with others and because of this, wound up south of 25 saves this season. That doesn’t imply he wasn’t (principally) dominant, as Duran completed the yr with a 2.67 xFIP and 132 Stuff+ whereas ending the second half particularly sturdy as properly (30% Ok-BB fee). The three.64 ERA and 1.16 WHIP are profession highs for Duran however we are able to chalk a number of that as much as dangerous luck as he nonetheless did a implausible job limiting arduous contact (30.5% ICR%) and continues to be a groundball machine (61.2%) when not lacking bats.
The fastball velo got here right down to 100.5 MPH this yr, which is clearly an absurd assertion, however even regardless of the velo dip, Duran nonetheless completed with a 36.1% whiff fee on the pitch, which was third greatest amongst relievers behind Edwin Díaz and Mason Miller. Rocco Baldelli remains to be on the helm in Minnesota, so Duran’s utilization subsequent season might proceed to be shaky, however the Twins ought to actually think about using him strictly because the nearer, because the numbers show he’s way more dependable in save conditions.
9. Raisel Iglesias (ATL) – The elder statesman of the highest 10, Iglesias turned in the very best season of his profession at age 34 as he completed with a 1.95 ERA and 0.74 WHIP, and even held a 35.1 innings pitched scoreless streak from mid-June to mid-September. An enormous purpose for that scoreless streak was the return of his prime fastball velocity within the second half, which led to a 33.6% CSW over the previous two months.
The general numbers for the season have been spectacular throughout the board, with a 2.78 pCRA (Predictive Categorized Run Common), and 39.4% Z-O fee as standouts, Iglesias confirmed he isn’t slowing down anytime quickly. With 4 high quality choices, Iglesias ought to be capable of climate one other downtick in velocity as he ages, simply as he did at the start of this previous season.
10. Ryan Helsley (STL) – Helsley completed the season because the league chief in saves with 49, however that quantity means nothing so far as his 2025 season is anxious. We should always nonetheless be focused on Helsley since he’s coming off a season the place he posted a 19.1% swinging-strike fee, and led all relievers with a 147 Stuff+. An enormous purpose for his success this previous yr might be attributed to a pitch utilization change, as he went from 56.2% fastball and 36.7% slider to 48.3% slider (+11.6%) and 45.5% fastball (-10.7).
The slider continues to be Helsley’s greatest providing with a 51% whiff fee final yr, however the fastball holds its personal too as he averages 99.6 MPH with 17″ of iVB on it. Helsley does quit some loud contact (39.6% ICR%) and holds a low groundball fee (37.2%) so it wouldn’t be stunning to see his home-run fee bounce nearer to his 2021-22 numbers, however even nonetheless, Helsley ought to convey sufficient worth to warrant being one of many prime 10 relievers off the board.
2025 UPDATE: Helsley remains to be a nice RP1 goal, however you want to know that the save whole won’t be practically the identical as final yr, partly the truth is as a result of he’s more likely to be traded, so we don’t know what position he can have all season lengthy. An excessive amount of uncertainty to draft him within the first six rounds.
Tier 3 (Most Seemingly Closers, with upside)
11. Ryan Walker (SFG) – Walker was the Giants’ greatest reliever from begin to end this season, and confirmed some upside I frankly didn’t anticipate to see from him. Walker ended the yr because the group’s nearer, ending with a 1.94 ERA, 0.85 WHIP, 2.45 SIERA, and 34.4% CSW. We’ve talked about a number of plus fastballs to date, however Walker’s greatest providing is his slider, which is actually elite with 16″ of whole break, a 38% whiff fee, and a 5.47 PLV.
The sinker is kind of nice, because it does present loads of groundballs and total Walker does an awesome job suppressing arduous contact (30.2% hard-hit fee). What his position might be subsequent March stays to be seen, as Camilo Doval and his 89 saves over the previous three seasons are nonetheless round for now (and I’m undoubtedly not giving up on him but), however a commerce might assist clear issues up for Walker, Doval, and the Giants.
2025 UPDATE: Melvin and Posey have spent the offseason hyping up Doval, which could possibly be to bolster his commerce worth, or maybe Posey needs to present his former teammate an opportunity to shut out video games once more? This could nonetheless be Walker’s job to lose.
12. Trevor Megill (MIL) – With Devin Williams lacking the primary half of the season, Megill led the Brewers in saves this yr with 21 whole, regardless of not being as dominant as he was on the finish of final season. Nonetheless, Megill completed with a 1.01 WHIP, 15.6% swinging-strike fee, 140 Stuff+, and 5.28 PLV, so the stuff hasn’t precisely fallen off drastically.
Megills greatest providing stays his 98.8 MPH fastball that has 17.2″ iVB and a 2455 rpm spin fee. The curve performs off this fairly properly, as Megill held an excellent 55% whiff fee in 2024. Megill is slated to open the season as a setup man in Milwaukee but when Williams occurs to get traded, Megill must be subsequent in line for save possibilities and gives enormous upside.
2025 UPDATE: With Williams now in New York, Megill ought to have the nearer position all to himself to begin the season. I like his odds at cracking 30 saves so long as he can keep wholesome for 50+ innings.
13. Tanner Scott (LAD) – Scott is hitting free company on the proper time as he’s coming off one in all his greatest seasons up to now as he completed with a 1.75 ERA and 1.13 WHIP, and his arsenal graded out as among the best in baseball with a 145 Stuff+ and 5.46 PLV (each prime 10). These numbers come after a tough 8-10 sport stretch to open up the season, however from about late April on, he was lights out, ending with a 38.3% Z-O fee over his final 59 innings pitch.
Scott’s greatest pitch is his fastball, which is available in from the left facet at 97 MPH with a 1.9° HAVAA, and 2540 rpm spin fee, so it’s no shock to see the utilization up 12% this yr. The slider remains to be a stable secondary, and ideally, we’d in all probability need him to have a 50/50 cut up between the 2 (nearer to final season). Scott continues to do an awesome job limiting arduous contact as properly (27.5 Exhausting Hit%, 84.3 Avg. Exit Velo) and I’d anticipate him to get the most important contract of any reliever this offseason, however that doesn’t assure him the nearer position.
2025 UPDATE: I favored Scott to nonetheless present prime 200 worth even in a component time nearer position, however with Dave Roberts already anointing him the groups nearer to begin the season, Scott could possibly be in for an enormous yr. That mentioned, there are many fallback choices right here, particularly if Scott will get off to a sluggish begin once more. The upside is definitely worth the threat although.
14. A.J. Puk (ARZ) – After making 4 begins at the start of the season wherein he allowed 14 earned runs over 13.2 innings, Puk moved again right into a bullpen position in Might and solely received higher because the season went on. Over 57.2 innings as a reliever, Puk completed with a 1.72 ERA, 0.75 WHIP, 2.12 pCRA, and 30% Ok-BB fee. He was the very best reliever in baseball over the second half of the season, the place he held a 1.50 SIERA, 37.6% Ok-BB, and 36.7% CSW fee.
At 6’7″ with a 7.1′ extension, Puk’s fastball (which averaged 96.3 MPH as an reliever) performs up large time, and the slider had a ton of success too with a 47.8% whiff fee. I’ve extra religion in him than the opposite choices at present within the Diamondbacks bullpen for subsequent yr, however it’s actually no assure Puk will open the yr because the nearer. He did finish the season because the de facto “nearer” and if he have been in a position to safe the position earlier than opening day, he would in all probability transfer into the highest 10.
2025 UPDATE: Puk stays within the prime 15 following Torey Lovullo’s feedback that “Should you had me trapped in a nook and I needed to battle you by telling you one identify [to close], I’d in all probability say A.J. proper now, however it’s a large open state of affairs”. That quote isn’t nothing, and Puk’s upside makes him properly definitely worth the gamble on this vary.
15. Jeff Hoffman (TOR) – Hoffman was in a position to again up final season’s shock success with a real breakout marketing campaign that noticed him end the yr with a 0.96 WHIP, 27.6% Ok-BB fee, 2.39 SIERA, and 18.4% swinging-strike fee. Hoffman is a spin fee grasp, ending within the prime 96th percentile in each slider and fastball spin, with the fastball getting elite arm facet run, and the slider racking up a ton of whiffs (44.7%). ‘
What subsequent season has in retailer for Hoffman is up within the air, however he ought to get a contract just like if not higher than what Robert Stephenson obtained final season. The touchdown spot will decide what Hoffman’s position might be, however I’d lean towards him signing with a group that has a longtime nearer to be their prime setup/high-leverage reliever. Nonetheless, the possibility that Hoffman does land a better position subsequent season is simply too engaging to cross up within the prime 20.
2025 UPDATE: Regardless of failing two physicals with the Orioles and Braves (who in all probability wished him as a starter), Hoffman winds up in Toronto the place he’s more likely to open the yr because the group’s nearer. I’m undecided if that’s the very best position for him, as he was dominant because the high-leverage stopper in Philadelphia, and the group introduced again Yimi García…however Hoffman is getting paid like a better and it feels like they may let him begin within the position.
Tier 4 (Most Seemingly Closers, with Questionmarks)
16. David Bednar (PIT) – Bednar might simply not get issues going this season, as each time it seemed like he could also be turning a nook, he’d go show us in any other case with a dud (or collection of duds). The strikeouts went method down and he even struggled along with his command (11.5% Ok-BB fee) and sadly, a 4.87 xFIP doesn’t precisely disprove his 5.77 ERA was a fluke. The curveball actually let him down this yr, ending with a 4.72 PLV and 6.2% swinging-strike fee, and he’ll want to enhance on that to have extra success towards right-handed hitters.
Total although, I’m actually not counting out a comeback season from Bednar subsequent yr because the stuff, for probably the most half, seems to nonetheless be there as he was in a position to end with stable 44.1% Z-O and 14.1% swinging-strike charges whereas having a 128 Stuff+. If the accidents he was coping with are actually behind him (indirect/again), the fastball and splitter can nonetheless be excellent, and I can also’t see the Pirates spending some huge cash on a possible nearer this offseason, so I’m keen to purchase again in on Bednar so long as the price displays his 2024 struggles.
2025 UPDATE: Bednar “is noticeably trimmer” this offseason, and hopefully a full, wholesome spring can have him able to bounce again this yr.
17. Pete Fairbanks (TBR) – What a disappointing season it was for Fairbanks who simply couldn’t construct off final yr’s second-half momentum and take that subsequent step ahead we’ve been ready for. Fairbanks wound up ending 2024 with only a 23.8% strikeout, 9.8% swinging-strike, and a 60.3% Z-O fee in addition to a pedestrian 3.75 SIERA. As soon as once more, Fairbanks didn’t make it previous 46 innings, as he had two IL stints on the yr, one in all which ended his season in August.
There may be some hope left right here because the fastball remains to be good (97.3 MPH, 17.5″ iVB, 2340 rpm spin fee) however except it will get again to 2022-23 ranges (99 MPH, with nearly 19″ iVB, and a 2500 rpm spin fee) we doubtless gained’t be seeing Fairbanks as a prime 10-12 nearer choice. There’s additionally an opportunity, possibly even a very good likelihood realizing the Rays, Fairbanks is dealt sooner or later between now and subsequent July, and principally doubtless he’d be taking a look at some kind of setup position along with his new group.
2025 UPDATE: It’s been quiet on the Fairbanks commerce entrance, so for now, he’s locked in because the groups returning nearer. A group that appears very aggressive on paper so maybe Fairbanks sticks with all of them yr lengthy. Which is nice for his worth, however will he be capable of crack the 50 innings mark for the primary time in his profession?
18. Kenley Jansen (LAA) – Jansen was principally stable throughout the board for fantasy functions this yr, ending with a 1.06 WHIP, 28.4% strikeout fee, and 31.1% CSW as he nonetheless has the power to overlook bats at an above-average clip. That being mentioned, the stuff is trending within the incorrect course, with a 53.7% Z-O fee, and 5.01 PLV, plus tough ERA indicators as proven by a 4.04 xFIP, and 4.65 pCRA.
The cutter remains to be an excellent pitch although and he certainly will need to shut subsequent yr as he tries to surpass Lee Smith for third most saves all-time. If he is ready to land in a pitcher-friendly park he must be alright, however I don’t suppose he’s somebody you need to goal within the prime 10-12 rounds anymore.
2025 UPDATE: We nonetheless don’t know the place it is going to be, however Jansen might be closing someplace this season after turning down the Mets as a result of he needs to chase the five hundred save mark. He nonetheless has some left within the tank. EDIT: Jansen signed a one yr take care of the Angels as this text was being revealed, so now we’ve got the reply as to the place he closes.
19. Jordan Romano (PHI) – Romano solely appeared in 15 video games this season, the place he principally struggled to the tune of a 6.59 ERA earlier than being shut down with an elbow damage that ultimately required arthroscopic surgical procedure. Within the small pattern dimension, Romano held principally poor numbers throughout the board with 14.5% Ok-BB, 11.6% swinging-strike, and 28.8% CSW charges, in addition to a 50% ICR%, and 3.93 SIERA.
At the same time as issues have been trending within the incorrect course for Romano in 2023, he was nonetheless in a position to end with a 2.90 ERA, a 1.22 WHIP, and 36 saves. If wholesome and shutting once more (Jays might resolve to maneuver on from him), Romano might nonetheless be an RP2 goal as a possible bounce-back candidate, however ideally, we’d get an opportunity to see him this spring first earlier than shifting him up the board.
2025 UPDATE: After being launched by the Jays in November, Romano was fast to latch on to a brand new group, signing a one-year take care of the Phillies. His expertise ought to give him the primary crack on the nearer position, if wholesome, which is a giant if. This spring might be enormous for Romano.
20. Ryan Pressly (CHC) – 2025 UPDATE: After being upset final yr by the Josh Hader signing, Pressly will get a brand new likelihood to shut out video games because the Cubs will give him each likelihood to win the position this spring. He nonetheless held a stable 5.28 PLV and three.43 xFIP mark in 2024, however the bat lacking potential tumbled final season as Pressly completed with only a 28.4% CSW, whereas additionally permitting too many baserunners as seen by his 1.34 WHIP. That mentioned, he was delivered to Chicago to shut out video games and the bodily stuff hasn’t declined all that a lot but, so maybe he has another good yr in him a minimum of.
21. Robert Suarez (SDP) – Regardless of a rocky September, Suarez nonetheless completed the postseason because the Padres nearer and must be again within the position to start subsequent yr. Even at 33 years previous, the stuff has not misplaced a beat, as he completed the season with a 137 Stuff+, and 5.30 PLV, thanks largely to his fastball, which he occurs to throw a whopping 87% of the time. It’s a very good providing too, so I don’t blame him for it, because it averaged 99 MPH this season with 17.2″ iVB. Will he be capable of maintain that sort of utilization and have success shifting ahead although?
The changeup has been good for him up to now, but in addition, please develop the cutter or possibly some sort of slider? As a lot as I’m apprehensive about him being a one-pitch pitcher, that is nonetheless a doubtlessly good spot for him as a better, with a very good lineup, stable rotation, and nice bullpen arms in entrance of him in Jason Adam and Jeremiah Estrada. That final half additionally means if Suarez struggles out of the gate, he has Adam and Estrada proper behind him as potential fallback nearer choices.
2025 UPDATE: Not solely are there considerations about Suarez’s effectiveness shifting ahead, however we additionally do not know the place he might be pitching for the whole thing of the season as dealing Robert Suarez appears to be “the transfer that seems most possible” for a Padres group desperately trying to shed payroll. Keep tuned, however for now, he isn’t practically definitely worth the threat of a prime 100 decide.
22. Alexis Díaz (CIN) – All of us had our doubts about Díaz coming into the 2024 season after a tough end to his 2023. Sadly, we weren’t confirmed incorrect right here as Díaz struggled mightily for many of the yr, ending with only a 9.9% Ok-BB fee, and 5.06 xFIP on the season. The general 3.99 ERA and 1.30 WHIP, plus 28 saves, isn’t precisely horrible, however it’s not what we have been hoping for when drafting Díaz within the prime 100 picks. Díaz was notably dangerous towards left-handed hitters with only a 5.3% Ok-BB fee, 1.56 WHIP, and 6.00 xFIP, which isn’t shocking given his fastball/slider strategy from a low arm slot.
Nevertheless, there could also be some hope right here nonetheless in spite of everything, as issues have been barely improved within the second half, the place he had a 13.5% swinging-strike fee and 1.00 WHIP. The stuff isn’t essentially dangerous, he does get an elite 7.7″ extension, a 98th percentile HAVAA, and 2600+ rpm spin charges on his fastball and slider, he’s simply extra suited in direction of being a right-handed specialist. The bat-missing potential simply has not been there since June of 2023 (25.5% CSW over his previous 102.1 IP). If I can get him for principally free in drafts, I’d prefer to take an opportunity on Díaz, however I’m staying away inside the highest 200 for now.
2025 UPDATE: With Terry Francona taking on as supervisor, I’m undecided he might be as affected person with Díaz as David Bell was. We should always have a greater learn on this bullpen in a month or so.
Tier 5 (Nice Relievers, Caught in a Potential Committee)
23. Lucas Erceg (KC) – Erceg opened up the season organising for Mason Miller earlier than a commerce mid-season landed him within the Royals nearer position. Total, it was a very good season for Erceg, who completed with a 2.83 SIERA and we noticed him get his stroll fee down to six.3% after ending final yr at 14.3%. The stuff received higher within the second half with the Royals as properly, ending with a 27% Ok-BB fee, and a couple of.68 xFIP publish All-Star break.
Erceg doesn’t have one actually elite providing, however extra so retains hitters off steadiness with a starter-like repertoire, that includes a very good sinker and slider, in addition to a promising changeup. That mentioned he nonetheless threw extra four-seamers than some other pitch this season, so I’d have an interest to see what he might do if he introduced the four-seam fee down nearer to twenty%. Regardless of the starter’s repertoire, I doubt we see Erceg shifting into the rotation anytime quickly, as he’s clearly wanted on this bullpen in the intervening time and he ought to open the season because the nearer barring a giant free agent splash or commerce.
2025 UPDATE: For now, the Royals are declining to call a better with each Erceg and Carlos Estévez performing as co-closers, but when we’re following the cash right here, Estevez is the one getting paid like a better. Even when Estevez does begin out because the nearer, Erceg has considerably higher stuff and the next upside, however maybe the group simply prefers him in that “excessive leverage position” (which is sensible).
24. Aroldis Chapman (BOS) – Chapman completed 2024 along with his highest save whole since 2021 (14) and whereas the ERA (3.79) and WHIP (1.35) aren’t precisely engaging, the stuff remains to be lacking bats at a excessive fee with a 37.1% strikeout fee, 33% CSW, and 5.19 PLV. Chapman was much more dominant within the second half after taking on as nearer, ending with a 32.7% Ok-BB fee and 1.84 xFIP post-All-Star break.
Even at 36 years previous, the stuff is displaying no indicators of decline but (fastball/sinker nonetheless sitting 98-100 MPH), and I’m certain he might discover an opportunity to shut someplace if he needs it, however he might get extra suitors within the type of “win now” golf equipment in search of him to hitch in a setup position.
2025 UPDATE: All we all know in Boston proper now’s that the nearer might be one in all Chapman, Hendriks or Slaten…which is what we’ve recognized since December. Except they’re severe about Slaten closing out video games (they weren’t final yr when Jansen missed time), Chapman is probably going the most suitable choice opening day except Hendriks stuff comes again to him this spring.
25. Justin Martinez (AZ) – Martinez took over because the Diamondbacks nearer within the second half of the season after Paul Sewald was faraway from the position, with Martinez happening to complete the yr with a 2.48 ERA and 9 saves. He additionally completed with a 2.88 xFIP, 2.92 pCRA, and 5.34 PLV, because the stuff has by no means been in query right here, as proven by his 100.2 velo fastball, 54% whiff fee splitter, and 45% whiff fee slider. He additionally did an awesome job limiting arduous contact and preserving the ball on the bottom with a 31.8% ICR%, and 60.1% ground-ball fee.
Paul Sewald is a free agent however A.J. Puk and Kevin Ginkel will nonetheless be stiff competitors and whereas the sky is the restrict for 23-year-old, Martinez doubtless must maintain the management points in test (11.7% stroll fee final yr) and be extra constant first earlier than taking on because the long-term nearer. That mentioned, if Matinez is known as the nearer, he strikes up a minimum of 10 spots on this checklist.
2025 UPDATE: Puk is at present the favourite to open the yr because the nearer (as he must be) however Martinez does have the Stuff to push him in that position if he can simply get extra constant along with his command and management. For now, his management points make for extra of a headache, though he has made constructive strides yr to yr. The upside is tantalizing, but in addition dangerous.
Tier 6 (Good Relievers, In all probability Closing out Video games?)
26. Chris Martin (TEX) – (From SV+HLD article) Martin is extra of a command specialist with nice stroll charges (1.7% stroll fee), but in addition completed with a formidable 2.61 xFIP, and 47.9% Z-O fee at 38 years previous.
2025 UPDATE: As of now, Martin is the favourite for saves in Texas however the query nonetheless stays, will they add anybody else? They could not be capable of add financially, so Martin might show to be a pleasant cut price afterward in drafts…so long as Jon Grey stays within the rotation.
27. Jorge López (WAS) – (From SV+HLD article) López clearly had a tumultuous expertise with the Mets final yr however he was a very totally different pitcher with the Cubs, ending with 34.8% strikeout and 36.7% CSW charges plus a 2.47 xFIP over his ultimate 22 innings of the season in Chicago.
2025 UPDATE: The Nationals are type of in the identical boat because the Rangers right here with López, in order of now, assuming nobody else is added to the roster, I like Lopez as a late spherical nearer choice.
28. Carlos Estévez (KC) – Whereas Estévez completed the season with a formidable 2.45 ERA, 0.91 WHIP, and even a 5.27 PLV, there are sufficient query marks underneath the hood to be skeptical about what’s in retailer for him subsequent season. Whereas Estévez was fairly constant all through, his 24.4% CSW, 23.6% strikeout fee, and 4.09 xFIP within the second half present a decline in bat-missing potential.
Estévez additionally permits a ton of arduous contact (backside 20 percentile in common exit velocity, hard-hit fee, and barrel fee), and with solely 32.2% floor ball and 24.4% chase charges, he’s leaving rather a lot as much as likelihood. With a scarcity of bat-missing potential, and the propensity to permit loud contact, I’m absolutely out on Estévez for subsequent season except he one way or the other winds up closing out video games for say, the Tigers or Royals.
2025 UPDATE: Regardless of that final sentence above and the truth that Estévez will in all probability will get extra saves than Erceg, I’m afraid the 2 might wash one another out for fantasy functions. Now if Estévez is definitely named THE nearer, that does change issues…
29. Liam Hendriks (BOS) – Hendriks is one in all if not the hardest nearer to rank proper now, as we’ve seen him be a top-five nearer choice not all that way back in 2022 the place he averaged 97.6 MPH on his fastball (he additionally will get 17.8″ iVB on the pitch) and his slider held a 67% whiff fee. He then started the 2023 season on the IL whereas present process most cancers therapies, however sadly was solely in a position to throw 5 innings that yr earlier than it was introduced he would wish Tommy John Surgical procedure. It was a small pattern dimension and clearly, his elbow was not proper, however his stuff was not the identical then as he was solely in a position to to common 95.4 MPH on his fastball in these 5 innings.
Quick ahead 12 months later with Hendriks making an attempt to make it again from surgical procedure in file time, however it was fairly clear that he rushed again too shortly. In Hendriks’ final outing for Worcester this yr he threw just one fastball and it was 91.6 MPH. The outing earlier than that he threw 6 fastballs averaging 92.8 MPH, and the outing earlier than that he threw seven fastballs averaging 94 MPH. The slider was additionally right down to 84 MPH. Maybe by March, he might be nearer to 96 MPH and the slider will come again to life, which is likely to be all that he must be efficient. The Pink Sox are unlikely to make a splash within the reliever market this yr, so I consider they’re relying on Hendriks getting again to regular and being their nearer, however it feels awfully dangerous to place that type of confidence right into a 36-year-old with 5 innings pitched since 2022.
2025 UPDATE: We’ll know extra in a month or so as soon as we see a few of Hendriks’ spring coaching numbers, and I’m hoping we see 96 MPH with good command.
Tier 7 (The Subsequent in Line Group…and Miami)
30. Orion Kerkering (PHI) – Kerkering put collectively an outstanding first full season on the MLB stage, ending with a 2.36 ERA, 2.89 xFIP, 22.2% Ok-BB fee, and 5.38 PLV. We received a glimpse of the stuff late final season, along with his 2900 rpm spin fee sweeper and 97.6 MPH fastball doubtlessly being a depraved combo on the finish of video games. That duo additionally helped lead him to a 54.8% ground-ball fee, and there’s actually no purpose to suppose he couldn’t be the nearer in Philadelphia subsequent season.
Nevertheless, I’m skeptical that occurs as a result of the Phillies will nearly actually add a minimum of one influence reliever this offseason with Carlos Estévez and Jeff Hoffman scheduled to be free brokers. This group’s win-now window is closing in spite of everything. Kerkering might simply be a top-15 nearer choice heading into subsequent season if given the job, however I simply can’t think about this group not including some authentic competitors for him on the very least.
2025 UPDATE: Romano might sink or swim early on right here, so Kerkering is definitely worth the late-round stash. If Romano seems nice in March, we are able to in all probability go forward and push Kerkering down.
31. Kirby Yates (LAD) – Yates turned again the clock this yr and put collectively his greatest season since 2019 with a 1.17 ERA and 0.83 WHIP. This season additionally noticed Yates along with his greatest stuff since 2019 as he completed with a 36% strikeout and 36.5% Z-O fee, plus a 2.51 pCRA. Yates was constant all yr spherical, permitting not more than three runs in a single month.
Whereas the strikeout fee was nice, his 24.8% ICR% was actually elite, and a quantity so low I simply can’t see him flirting with it ever once more. Yates may even be 38 to begin subsequent season and whereas he ought to get an opportunity to shut out video games once more, it’s actually not a assure, particularly if he prefers to signal with a contender.
2025 UPDATE: With Scott being named the nearer to begin the season, it places Yates position in query, though I can nonetheless image him with 10+ saves as I’d think about he’s subsequent in line.
32. Porter Hodge (CHC) – Hodge completed his spectacular rookie season with 9 saves, and wound up with some nice numbers throughout the board: a 1.88 ERA, 0.88 WHIP, 2.95 pCRA, 31.7% strikeout fee, 31.9% CSW, and 30.4% ICR%. Even with all these constructive numbers, I’ve some long-term considerations right here. He completed with a 56% Z-O fee and 5.10 PLV, each underwhelming and largely resulting from his below-average (at greatest) fastball.
The slider is nice, however counting on a better with a nasty fastball isn’t precisely one thing I need to make investments closely in. The opposite concern right here can be his position for subsequent season. Whereas he must be the favourite for saves as of now, I might be shocked if the Cubs didn’t herald a veteran with nearer expertise who might open the season within the position.
2025 UPDATE: Pressly will get everychance to shut right here, however he’s additionally on the decline so we shouldn’t neglect about Hodge simply but.
33. Edwin Uceta (TB) – Uceta was one of many largest breakout relievers in 2023, ending the season with a 30.8% Ok-BB fee, 2.10 SIERA, and a couple of.02 pCRA, which have been all second-best amongst relievers with 40+ innings pitched. Whereas his distinctive changeup, with 17.8″ iHB and a 2172 rpm spin fee, might be his greatest providing, the sinker held a 2.0 HAVAA whereas his brand-new cutter was at 1.2 (96th percentile).
The pitch combine helped Uceta do an awesome job limiting arduous contact with only a 3.8% barrel fee allowed and a 32.3% ICR%. With three plus pitches and nice command of the zone, Uceta might actually make a case to shut out video games for the Rays subsequent season (or doubtlessly begin video games?), irrespective of the place Pete Fairbanks spends nearly all of the season.
34. Jesús Tinoco (MIA) – Tinoco was a nice shock for the Marlins in 2024, as he ran away with the nearer position after Calvin Faucher landed on the IL in early September. For the season, Tinoco held a 0.96 WHIP, and 47.4% Z-O fee, however he was much more spectacular within the second half with a 25% Ok-BB fee and a couple of.63 SIERA.
The stuff isn’t overpowering, however his sinker is a stable pitch that will get good motion (18″ iHB, 1.0° HAVAA), whereas the slider will get many of the whiffs (37.6% whiff fee). As of now, I see Tinoco as the favourite to shut out video games for the Marlins in 2025, however there are many veteran closers out available on the market the Marlins might herald for competitors.
35. Calvin Faucher (MIA) – 2025 UPDATE: Faucher will definitely be an element within the Marlins nearer contest, as he did have 6 saves final season earlier than lacking the ultimate month of the season. Regardless of the saves and a 3.19 ERA, Faucher did wrestle to the tune of a 1.40 WHIP, 60.8% Z-O%, 10.4% SwStr%, and 28.5 CSW% charges. Tinoco is the higher nearer choice right here, however Faucher might have the within observe in the intervening time.
36. Yimi García (TOR) –2025 UPDATE: García has extra nearer expertise than Hoffman, and was nice in Toronto final season (2.36 SIERA, 0.80 WHIP, 29.6% Ok-BB), so might they use Hoffman in that “excessive leverage position” with García holding down the ninth? We will see, however the expectation is that Hoffman opens the yr as THE nearer.
37. Justin Slaten (BOS) – As issues stand now, Slaten must be the favourite for holds within the Pink Sox bullpen with Liam Hendriks because the group’s nearer, however as talked about earlier, we actually don’t have any clue what we’re going to get with Hendriks. Slaten completed his rookie yr with a formidable 3.01 xFIP, and 5.46 PLV, and his three-pitch combine seems ok to be nearer prepared. The Pink Sox have made indications within the not-too-distant previous that they’d like to chop payroll reasonably than add, so that would go away Slaten as an actual risk to be the nearer subsequent April.
2025 UPDATE: The Sox have solely added Chapman to the nearer combine, so Slaten might get an actual shot to shut out video games this season. I’d nonetheless anticipate the veterans Chapman and Hendriks to be the favorites if wholesome.
38. Jeremiah Estrada (SD) – The Estrada breakout occurred a few years after it was predicted, unlucky for the Cubs, however lucky for the Padres who now have themselves a future nearer. Estrada completed 2024 with a 37.3% strikeout fee, a 19.2% swinging-strike fee, and a couple of.50 pCRA as a brand new splitter helped him flip issues round. I’m undecided Estrada will get an opportunity to shut out video games subsequent yr, however Suarez is actually a regression candidate so I believe he’s is price a flier in deeper leagues.
2025 UPDATE: I’ll take the upside in Estrada over Jason Adam for now, who might additionally wind up traded.
39. Jason Adam (SD) – Adam is in an identical boat to Estrada, as he might see some saves this season if Suarez struggles however the two (Adam and Estrada) will nonetheless be up towards one another for save possibilities in that situation. Adam was implausible final yr, ending with a 41.8% Z-O fee, 19.3% swinging-strike fee, and 0.86 WHIP, so whoever it might be that will get the nearer position on this hypothetical would nonetheless carry immense upside.
Tier 8 (The Who Is aware of?, Late Spherical Dart Throw Group)
40. Griffin Jax (MIN) – Jax might have a locked-in nearer forward of him however that didn’t cease him from having 10 saves this season, as Jhoan Duran missed the primary couple of weeks of the season with an damage. Jax was arguably the very best non-closer reliever in baseball final yr, ending with a 2.32 xFIP, 36.9% CSW, and 5.58 PLV, so there’s worth right here even when he isn’t closing out video games as he was nonetheless the 63rd-best participant in customary Yahoo leagues final yr regardless of simply the ten saves.
41. Jason Foley (DET) – It could be shocking to see Foley this low coming off a 3.15 ERA (4.09 SIERA), 1.18 WHIP, and 28 save season, however the reality is that Foley remains to be miscast as a better and the Tigers ought to have some choices, each in-house and out of doors the group, that simply makes extra sense. Foley is a sinkerballer who actually struggles to overlook bats as seen by his 18.4% strikeout, and 10.9% swinging-strike charges, however even his groundball fee took a success this season (47.8%), down 10% from the previous two seasons.
Foley remains to be a nice reliever in most bullpens, however he’s not somebody you really need as your nearer (a poor man’s Clay Holmes maybe?). With higher choices on this Tigers bullpen in addition to an opportunity the group goes out and provides a veteran nearer this offseason, Foley looks like a protected keep away from in early drafts this winter.
42. Beau Brieske (DET) – 2025 UPDATE: I’m undecided what the upside is with Brieske after a blah common season however he seemed nice in October (significantly better than Foley), and has a greater nearer profile than Foley. Brieske has a very good changeup and satisfactory slider, and whereas the fastball doesn’t grade out properly (as a result of he lives on the backside of the zone for some purpose), he might be 96-97 with it, plus it will get nice iVB (17.5″) and spin charges (2500+) On the finish of the day although, I believe I’d simply reasonably keep away from this Tiger bullpen till somebody emerges.
43. Camilo Doval (SF) – Regardless of dropping the nearer position, being demoted mid-season, and ending with a 4.88 ERA and 1.58 WHIP, 2024 shouldn’t be thought of the start of the top for Doval whose stuff is clearly nonetheless top-notch. Doval completed with a 32.3% CSW fee, and his 99 MPH cutter nonetheless has immense potential with a 12.3″ whole break, and a 1.3° HAVAA. His slider isn’t too shabby as properly, ending with a forty five% whiff fee plus his 29.6% ICR% and 61.5% ground-ball charges have been truly each higher than Emmanuel Clase’s who has an identical pitch combine.
Nonetheless, the best-case situation right here for Doval is probably going a commerce, as Ryan Walker was dominant within the nearer position as soon as taking on and must be thought of the favourite to open within the position subsequent March. If Doval can land a better position someplace, I really like the bounce-back potential right here, particularly at what must be a no-risk price.
2025 UPDATE: Does Posey have a mushy spot for Doval? Perhaps, however this could nonetheless be Walker’s position to lose (and he’s ok to not lose it).
44. Prelander Berroa (CWS) –I do not know who would be the White Sox nearer on opening day, but when they’re taking a look at proficient in-house candidates, Berroa must be on the prime of the checklist. It was solely 18 innings, however Berroa completed the season with a 31.3% strikeout fee, a 15.5% swinging-strike fee, and a 3.39 pCRA. Much like Justin Martinez, the swing-and-miss potential has all the time been there for Berroa, it’s simply going to come back right down to having the ability to discover the strike zone persistently (and profitable the nearer job in fact).
45. Seth Halvorsen (COL) – If there’s anybody to take an opportunity on in Colorado, it needs to be Seth Halvorsen proper? Halvorsen had actually good numbers in simply 12.1 IP final yr (2.75 SIERA, 23.9% strikeout-minus-walk, and 5.42 PLV) and certain has the very best repertoire to achieve Coors.
46. Ben Joyce (LAA) – It was solely 32.2 innings however I believe we must be pleased with how Joyce completed this season, with a 2.20 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, 15% swinging-strike fee, and 46.5% Z-O, principally resulting from his potential to restrict contact within the zone (75%). Clearly with Joyce the massive weapon is his fastball velocity (102.1 MPH on common) however it additionally held a 1.9° HAVAA, so the pitch might be fairly misleading as properly. He nonetheless must discover a secondary he can belief, however his excessive spin slider feels fairly near turning into an awesome secondary with some tweaks possibly (and can the splinker return?).
So long as he’s wholesome, Joyce ought to have a really sturdy ground along with his fastball and excessive ground-ball fee (62.6%) and as of now, there isn’t a competitors for him to be the Angels nearer. I believe there’s nonetheless some untapped potential right here and might be pleased to take an opportunity on Joyce as my #2 nearer in leagues subsequent yr, so long as they don’t seem to be wanting so as to add a veteran nearer to the combination.
2025 UPDATE: Clearly well being is the priority with Joyce at the beginning, however I additionally fear they add some kind of cease hole veteran nearer (Kenley Jansen?) as that bullpen has not been addressed this off season. There’s additionally Robert Stephenson returning within the second half, however thats not a lot of a priority to Joyce in the intervening time.
EDIT: Welp, it can certainly be Jansen because the cease hole veteran nearer however it doesn’t completely rule Joyce out from some saves this yr, as Jansen has had well being issues the previous two seasons.
47. Matt Strahm (PHI) – Matt Strahm stays constant, however 2024 was nonetheless a profession yr for him. After ending with a 28.7% strikeout-minus-walk fee and a couple of.37 SIERA and with the Phillies solely including Jordan Romano to date this offseason, there’s an opportunity we see Strahm enter the save combine sooner or later this yr.
48. Jose A. Ferrer (WAS) – 2025 UPDATE: Positive, Ferrer is a lefty who principally solely has a fastball (the changeup is okay I assume) however let’s additionally keep in mind that Sean Doolittle (a lefty with solely a fastball) had 54 saves underneath Dave Martinez in Washington. Ferrer throws arduous and has a very good sinker, and in a method is type of a left-handed Jason Foley though I believe Ferrer’s stuff is best. The issue is he held a strikeout fee underneath 20% final yr, which is largely resulting from his missing secondaries but in addition the truth that he lives within the strikezone (54% Zone fee with a ninety fifth percentile center center fee).
49. Robert Garcia (TEX) – Unfortunate in 2024, new Rangers reliever Robert Garcia, not solely held a .329 BABIP but in addition a 57.2% left-on-base fee, the second lowest amongst 169 certified relievers. The Rangers bullpen isn’t cemented in stone but, however I’d think about Garcia can have higher pitchers coming in after him on his new group. Both that, or Garcia himself might be closing out video games as proper now he’s far and away the very best reliever in that Texas bullpen as he completed 2024 with 2.77 xFIP, 2.65 pCRA, and 23.5% strikeout-minus-walk fee.
2025 UPDATE: It is likely to be more durable to shut out video games in Texas, however then once more Garcia solely has Chris Martin in entrance of him in the intervening time. If the Rangers don’t add any bullpen items, Garcia will assuredly get some save possibilities ultimately this season. Garcia, like Ferrer (each teammates final season) additionally struggles with too many center center fastballs.
50. Taylor Rogers (CIN) – 2025 UPDATE: Rogers was nice final season, ending with a 2.40 ERA, 25.7% Ok fee and 32% CSW, however the stuff is falling off right here (25.7% Ok and 9.9% SwStr charges lowest since 2017) and a transfer to Cincinnati isn’t precisely supreme. However contemplating the opposite choices right here, might Rogers be Terry Francona’s new “Brad Hand” in Cincinnati, as that veteran lefty with nearer expertise introduced in through commerce? In all probability to not be sincere, as Hand was MUCH higher when he got here to Cleveland from San Diego again in 2018. Tony Santillan and even Emilio Pagán is likely to be higher nearer choices to chase right here.
