Closer Situations
Kodai Senga
Earned his first save in the Williams-less committee on Aug. 10. Daniel Duarte and Nate Lavender are also in the mix, but Senga appears to have the inside track for now. Grab him if available — this committee has real save volume behind it.
Mason Montgomery
Emerging as Pittsburgh's primary option after Gregory Soto was pushed out of the picture by the Luke Weaver acquisition. No confirmed save since the shake-up, but Montgomery is worth owning in 12-team leagues with FAAB to spare.
Dylan Smith
Splitting save chances with Keaton Winn in a thin save pool. San Francisco's poor record limits opportunities — this is a holds-plus-saves play at best. Avoid if you're chasing saves only.
Grant Taylor
Taking over save opps after Seranthony Dominguez was shipped to Seattle. The White Sox aren't winning many close games, so the save upside is limited. Deep leagues only.
Daniel Palencia
On a minor-league rehab stint for an elbow injury and could return soon. Whoever is holding down the Cubs' ninth should be dropped the moment Palencia's activation is announced — he'll reclaim the role.
Kodai Senga
First career save Monday after Williams hit the IL. Green refused to name a closer, but Senga is the highest-upside option — elite swing-and-miss stuff and he's looked dominant since transitioning to a high-leverage relief role. Stream for saves while Williams is out, but expect shared chances with Pintaro and Duarte.
Nate Pearson
Two saves since arriving from Houston on July 22, sharing ninth-inning duties with Steven Cruz in a true committee. Pearson's higher ceiling makes him the priority add for saves, but neither pitcher has separated himself from the other. Stream only in save-needy leagues.
Steven Cruz
Three saves since July 22, 2.25 ERA since June 1. The ability to handle multi-inning appearances keeps Cruz relevant even when Pearson handles the ninth. Speculative add in deeper formats; in standard leagues he's best left on the wire unless you're desperate for saves.
Grant Taylor
Inherited the closer role when Seranthony Dominguez was traded to Seattle. Has converted his first save opportunities but remains largely unproven in the role. No competition for the job yet — monitor before spending meaningful FAAB, but the path to saves is uncontested.
Nate Pearson
Two saves in three chances since arriving from Houston on July 22. Sharing high-leverage duties with Steven Cruz in a genuine committee — neither has a firm grip on the role. Effective but a 1.29 WHIP warrants caution. Stream only in save-needy leagues.
Steven Cruz
2.25 ERA over 28 IP since June 1, three saves since July 22. Cruz looked like he was taking over after Alex Lange imploded, but Pearson's arrival split duties again. Both are streamable if you need saves; neither is a set-and-forget option.
Jonathan Loáisiga
Has allowed a run in five of his last 10 outings. He's already appeared in 50 games this season — matching his previous three-season total — and fatigue is a legitimate concern. Roster at your own risk in the final two months.
Grant Taylor
Inherited the closer role after Seranthony Dominguez was traded to Seattle. Recorded his first save opportunity on August 9. Completely unproven in the role — monitor closely before spending meaningful FAAB this week.
Ben Joyce
Tops the Angels' save committee but remains on a documented no-consecutive-days restriction due to injury history, creating planned save opportunities for Natera Jr. every other game. The Angels have just 14 saves all season — dead last in MLB — which limits absolute save upside. Add for save volume in 14-team leagues where Natera Jr. is not already rostered.
Samy Natera Jr.
The committee hedge for Joyce's off days, with two saves since the deadline exodus removed Zeferjahn, Yates, and Suter from the roster. The Angels' 14-save season total caps the floor on overall opportunity. Best add in 14-team leagues where Joyce is already owned and you need coverage for his rest days.
Grant Taylor
Has 5 saves and a 2.74 ERA since Seranthony Dominguez was traded to Seattle, making him the default ninth-inning option for Chicago. Sean Newcomb still handles specific matchups, keeping the role from fully locking. The 67:17 K:BB ratio on the season is not a fluke, but confirm Taylor is receiving consistent save chances before spending significant FAAB — hold if already rostered.
Yennier Cano
One of three Orioles relievers (alongside Andrew Kittredge and Brandyn Garcia) cycling through ninth-inning opportunities after Baltimore traded Tyler Wells to Tampa Bay. No clear favorite has emerged across the three-man committee. Skip in 10-12-team formats. In 15-team leagues the combined save volume is worth a speculative roster spot, but no individual is worth significant FAAB at this point in the season.
Ben Joyce
Tops the Angels' save committee but remains on a strict no-consecutive-days restriction due to injury history, which creates planned save opportunities on Joyce's off days. Add for the best pure save upside in a committee; do not budget for a traditional closer's workload until the Angels confirm his schedule has expanded.
Samy Natera Jr.
The deep-league hedge on Joyce's off days. Has two saves since the trade-deadline exodus cleared Yates, Zeferjahn, and Suter from the roster. The Angels are dead-last in MLB with 14 saves, so overall opportunity is limited — but Natera is the better add in leagues where Joyce is already rostered.
Grant Taylor
Taylor has five saves and a 2.74 ERA in 49 1/3 innings since Seranthony Dominguez was traded to Seattle, and he is the default option in the ninth. Sean Newcomb is still splitting duties based on matchup, so the role is not fully locked. Add where available in 14-team leagues — five saves with a 67:17 K:BB ratio is not a fluke, but the committee tag is real.
Yennier Cano
The Orioles traded Tyler Wells to Tampa Bay at the deadline and have cycled through Cano, Andrew Kittredge, and Brandyn Garcia for saves. No clear favorite has emerged. Avoid unless you can absorb committee risk on your IL — save attempts here are unpredictable enough to cost you a start without delivering the counting stat.
Ben Joyce
Closer Monkey now puts Joyce first, but the Angels do not expect him to work consecutive days initially, if at all this season. Add for the best pure save upside; do not budget for a traditional closer's workload.
Samy Natera Jr.
Recorded his second save with six whiffs on 23 pitches, finishing the eighth and retiring all three hitters in the ninth. He is the deep-league hedge because Joyce's workload restrictions create planned save chances on off days.
Louis Varland
Allowed Alex Bregman's game-tying two-run homer for his first blown save, but the hierarchy remains Varland, Tyler Rogers, then Braydon Fisher. Hold him; monitor the declining strikeout rate and note that Rogers is Friday's vulture-save option after Varland worked back-to-back games.
Jordan Romano
Nine saves since joining the Rockies and first in line for the ninth after the deadline deals of Senzatela and Vodnik thinned the bullpen behind him. Still a watch given Colorado's history of rotating closers, but Romano has the most momentum and is worth adding in 14-team leagues as a speculative play.
Tyler Rogers
Three saves and a primary setup role in Toronto's bullpen. Gets closeable situations when they arise but is not the designated closer — monitor the Blue Jays ninth inning situation game by game.
Brayan Bello
Earned his first career save in a multi-inning relief outing against Chicago, logging three clean frames. The Red Sox are weighing whether to return him to the rotation; until that decision is made, he is in the mix for long save situations in blowouts.
Ben Joyce
Activated from the 60-day IL with the ninth inning available after the deadline. The Angels may ease him back because his rehab covered only 3.2 innings with two walks, but his stuff gives him the best upside in the group.
Yennier Cano
Recorded his second save, but manager Craig Albernaz continues to match relievers to lineup pockets. Andrew Kittredge and Rico Garcia remain involved, so Cano is an add for saves-needy deep leagues rather than a set-and-forget closer.
Jacob Latz
His run of 16 straight converted saves ended after eight days without work. Hold him: one rusty outing does not erase the role, though runs allowed in three of his last four appearances make Chase Silseth the next name to monitor.
Andrés Muñoz
Six blown saves and a 4.60 ERA put his role on thin ice. The Mariners haven't pulled him yet, but another high-leverage failure could trigger a committee. Jose A. Ferrer is the name to watch as a potential beneficiary.
Brandyn Garcia
Paul Sewald demoted after a disastrous second half. Garcia has the first two post-demotion saves, but Lovullo won't name a closer — he'll play matchups with Morillo, Loaisiga, and Ginkel. Justin Martinez returning from IL in early August could immediately take the gig.
Grant Taylor
Best path to White Sox saves after Dominguez was dealt. Taylor has 5 saves, a 2.74 ERA, and an elite K:BB. Sean Newcomb shares the role on southpaw matchups, but Taylor is the clear frontrunner with the best recent results.
Brandyn Garcia
Garcia, a lefty, has taken recent save opportunities away from Paul Sewald in Arizona. Sewald had been the closer but fell out of favor with the coaching staff. This is an early-stage switch — confirm with back-to-back save appearances before making any roster moves. Worth monitoring daily in deep leagues.
Rico Garcia / Andrew Kittredge / Yennier Cano
The Orioles' closer situation is a true committee with Felix Bautista lost for the season to shoulder surgery. No single pitcher has asserted control through July. Only actionable in very deep AL-only formats, and even then only with daily streaming discipline.
Gregory Soto / Mason Montgomery / Camilo Doval
Pittsburgh runs a three-way committee. The Yankees reportedly moved Doval to the Pirates at the deadline, adding a third voice to an already crowded ninth inning. No individual is worth rostering in standard leagues. Saves will be spread unevenly across all three.
Edwin Diaz
Returned from 85-game absence (elbow surgery) on July 29 and immediately reclaimed the closer role, pushing Tanner Scott (16 saves, 2.32 ERA in his absence) to setup. Diaz's elbow history and first weeks back warrant monitoring — one shaky outing could shift usage again. Watch weekly.
Caleb Kilian / Erik Miller
Kilian has nominal closer status (4-for-5 saves, 3.34 ERA, 9.7 K/9) but Miller has been dominant over six weeks: 12.2 shutout innings, 18 K, 2 saves. Giants' poor record limits save opportunities. Both are speculative holds in very deep formats only.
Jordan Romano
Romano (signed mid-season) leads Colorado's ninth with a 1.17 ERA since joining, but the Rockies have used a six-man closer committee all year — Senzatela, Herget, and Vodnik have all earned saves. Only chase Romano in very deep leagues.
Grant Taylor
Primary White Sox closer (5 saves, 2.74 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 50:9 K:BB in 49.1 IP). With Seranthony Dominguez traded to Seattle, Taylor's role should be cleaner — but watch whether Monday's deadline buying reshapes the bullpen hierarchy before 6 PM.
Brandyn Garcia / Jonathan Loaisiga
Sewald officially demoted after 3 BS and a 7.16 ERA since June 1; Lovullo going matchup-based — Garcia leads against lefties, Loaisiga and Kevin Ginkel also in the mix. Two viable saves sources in Arizona now.
Ryan Zeferjahn / Sam Bachman / Kirby Yates
Ben Joyce on Triple-A rehab, expected back in 1-2 weeks, but this three-way committee has no defined closer in the interim. Saves are available but unpredictable.
Gregory Soto
Allowed a game-winning run in a tied ninth on July 30 for his third loss of the season; ERA trending up and the manager has used a committee when Soto has been unavailable.
Jordan Romano
Preferred option after a midseason turnaround, but Antonio Senzatela, Jimmy Herget, and Brennan Bernardino remain committee threats. Any stumble could open the role.
Steven Cruz
Cruz has earned two of Kansas City's last three save opportunities, with manager Quatraro skipping Alex Lange again last Sunday after Lange's consecutive blown saves. Cruz converted cleanly with two strikeouts in his most recent outing. His peripheral numbers are cleaner than Lange's (who ranks 146th of 173 qualified relievers in K-BB rate this season), and the manager has shown he trusts Cruz in pressure spots. In deep leagues (14+), Cruz is the priority add in KC — Lange is still on your radar as a vulture if things flip back.
Tyler Wells
Ryan Helsley remains on the 60-day IL with no stated return timetable, leaving Wells, Yennier Cano, and Andrew Kittredge sharing ninth-inning duties. Wells has the most recent usage and the best peripheral numbers of the group — manager Albernaz has not made a permanent appointment, but Wells is the de facto target in standard 12-team leagues. Roster all three if you have the space in deeper formats.
Jordan Romano
Romano has 2 of Colorado's last 3 saves and remains the committee leader in Denver, though a 7.71 ERA makes him hard to trust outside of deep-league save hunting. Colorado plays a high volume of close games at Coors, which inflates save opportunities even when the team is bad. Deep-league-only (14+ teams) roster spot, and only if your league desperately needs saves.
Steven Cruz
Cruz earned his second save of the season on July 27 when manager Quatraro bypassed Alex Lange for the save opportunity — a direct signal of confidence after Lange's consecutive blown saves. Cruz has 2 saves in his last 3 opportunities and cleaner peripheral numbers than Lange. This is now a committee situation, with Cruz holding the slight edge going forward. In deep leagues (14+), Cruz is the priority add in Kansas City.
Tyler Wells
Ryan Helsley remains on the 60-day IL with no return timetable, leaving Wells, Yennier Cano, and Andrew Kittredge sharing ninth-inning duties. Wells has the most recent usage and best peripheral numbers of the group — manager Albernaz hasn't made a permanent appointment, but Wells is the de facto No. 1. Roster all three if you have the space in deep formats; Wells is the target in standard leagues.
Jordan Romano
Romano has 2 of Colorado's last 3 saves in a six-man committee. His 7.71 ERA is ugly but irrelevant — the save opportunity at altitude is the argument. Deep-league add only (14-team-plus). Colorado plays a high volume of close games at Coors, and that translates to save volume even when the team is bad. Worth a roster spot when saves are scarce in your format.
Tyler Wells
Helsley remains on the 60-day IL with no return timetable. Wells, Yennier Cano, and Andrew Kittredge share duties. Wells has the most recent usage and the best peripheral numbers of the group — manager Albernaz hasn't named anyone permanently but Wells is the de facto No. 1. In save-scarce leagues, roster all three if you can; Wells is the primary target.
Jordan Romano
Romano has collected 2 of Colorado's last 3 saves and holds a slight edge in a six-man committee. His 7.71 ERA and ugly peripherals are beside the point at Coors — the save opportunity is the entire argument. Deep-league add only (14-team-plus), but the volume of ninth-inning situations at altitude makes him worth a roster spot when saves are thin in your format.
Alex Lange
Lange has converted 8 of the Royals' last 9 save opportunities and nominally holds the role. But his K-BB rate (8.8%) ranks 146th of 173 qualified relievers — he's surviving on weak contact, not missing bats. One blown-save stretch is all it takes for Kansas City to hand the ball to a younger arm. Hold now; have a contingency plan ready.
Tyler Wells
Ryan Helsley was transferred to the 60-day IL Monday — extending his absence further than initially projected. Wells, Yennier Cano, and Grant Wolfram share duties. Wells has been the most deployed option recently and has the slight edge, but manager Albernaz has confirmed no permanent appointment. Add Wells in any format where saves are scarce; pair with Cano in 14-team-plus leagues.
Jordan Romano
Romano has earned 2 of Colorado's last 3 saves and is emerging as the preferred option in a Rockies committee that has used six different relievers for saves this season. His 7.71 ERA and 2.14 WHIP since joining Colorado are ugly, but save opportunities at Coors come regardless of ratios. Roster-able only in deep leagues (14-team-plus) where the opportunity alone justifies the spot.
Alex Lange
Lange has 8 of the Royals' 9 saves since June 1 and holds the primary role, but his underlying numbers are concerning — K-BB of 8.8%, ranking 146th of 173 qualified relievers. He's one blown-save string away from a committee. Hold now but have a replacement ready; if he blows consecutive saves, the Royals have younger arms waiting for the role.
Tyler Wells
Back-to-back saves this weekend while Ryan Helsley (right elbow, IL since July 3) remains out. Wells retired all three batters both Friday and Saturday nights. He's getting a slight edge over Kittredge right now based on the weekend usage pattern, but Albernaz has stated he'll keep it matchup-based. Add in all formats if Helsley is on your IR and you need saves.
Andrew Kittredge
Kittredge had back-to-back save chances the week prior and remains co-closer with Wells during Helsley's absence. The 36-year-old has been effective but inconsistent in deployment. If you can only roster one Oriole reliever, Wells has the slight edge this week — but roster both in 14-team-plus leagues where saves are scarce.
Javier Assad
Assad logged his first career save Saturday in a three-inning appearance — a long save that suggests the Cubs deployed him in an unusual spot rather than the traditional ninth-inning role. Jacob Webb remains the primary closer with Daniel Palencia on the IL, but Assad's performance keeps this situation fluid heading into the August 3 deadline. Monitor for any Cubs bullpen additions that could reshuffle the hierarchy.
Jordan Romano
Romano recorded the Rockies' first save of the second half on July 21 and appears to be the team's preferred option ahead of Antonio Senzatela and Jimmy Herget. The Rockies won't generate many save opportunities, but in deep leagues where any closer with a clear role has value, Romano is the Colorado arm to own. Use only where roster space is free.
Kirby Yates
Yates blew his first save of the week Wednesday when Hao-Yu Lee hit a two-run double in the ninth inning vs. the Athletics. He rebounded with a scoreless outing Thursday but the blown save puts his hold on the Angels' closer role under real scrutiny. Ryan Zeferjahn is the only other LAA pitcher with a save in 2026, and Ben Joyce (shoulder) hasn't debuted yet. Yates is still the preferred option, but another miscue opens a genuine committee. Hold in 12-team leagues; watch carefully in 14-team-plus.
Grant Taylor
The White Sox three-man committee of Taylor, Sean Newcomb, and Seranthony Dominguez has no clear resolution in sight. Taylor is the highest-upside arm and gets the most ninth-inning work, but usage is inconsistent game-to-game. With the trade deadline approaching, any Chicago addition could further complicate the hierarchy. Own Taylor in 14-team-plus if saves matter; add all three in 15-team-plus leagues.
Jacob Webb
Webb remains Chicago's primary save option with Daniel Palencia (elbow) on the IL and no clear return date. He's converted multiple saves in the interim and the Cubs have enough offense to generate ninth-inning situations. The trade deadline is the wildcard — Chicago is actively shopping for pitching, and any bullpen addition could reshape the hierarchy. Add in 14-team-plus formats until Palencia returns or a deadline move changes the math.
Carmen Mlodzinski
After his first blown save of 2026 (Ben Rice three-run homer in the ninth last week), Mlodzinski is on a short leash in Pittsburgh. The Pirates have no obvious alternative in the ninth, so don't drop him — but a second blown save in the next two weeks likely triggers a committee. Hold in 12-team leagues; streaming candidate in shallower formats where the opportunity cost is lower.
Grant Taylor
The White Sox committee of Taylor, Sean Newcomb, and Seranthony Dominguez is arguably the most interesting save situation in baseball right now. Chicago wants to develop Taylor as a starter long-term — which paradoxically makes him the most likely closer in the near term while that transition plays out. He's the blue-chip arm of the three and gets the highest-leverage ninth-inning deployment. Own him in 14-team-plus leagues; add all three in 15-team-plus if saves are a priority.
Jacob Webb
With Daniel Palencia on the IL (elbow), Webb is Chicago's primary save option. He's converted multiple saves in the role and the Cubs are competitive enough to generate save opportunities. Add him in 14-team-plus formats as a short-term hold until Palencia returns — which doesn't appear imminent.
Carmen Mlodzinski
Mlodzinski's first blown save of 2026 on Wednesday (Ben Rice homer, three-run ninth) cracked his previously clean record. Don't drop him — Pittsburgh has no obvious alternative. But the performance warrants monitoring. If he gives up a second blown save in the next two weeks, the Pirates will go committee and his save value collapses. Hold in 12-team leagues; streaming candidates in shallower formats.
Jordan Romano
Romano has converted both Rockies saves since signing a minor-league deal July 4 and appears to be Colorado's preferred ninth-inning option ahead of Antonio Senzatela and Brennan Bernardino. Slim save opportunities in Colorado, but Romano's role is about as defined as it gets for a Rockies reliever. Pure speculative add in 15-team-plus leagues.
Tyler Wells
Ryan Helsley is on the 60-day IL with UCL inflammation — no surgery confirmed, but the lengthy IL designation speaks volumes. Baltimore's ninth-inning committee continues rotating between Wells, Andrew Kittredge, Rico Garcia, and Yennier Cano with no closer formally named. Wells leads by save count and has the clearest recent track record. In 12-team leagues, Wells is your best BAL option; in 15-team-plus formats, own all four.
Alex Lange
Two blown saves have eroded confidence in Lange's hold on Detroit's ninth inning. Will Vest and Keider Montero have both converted saves this season, and a third blown save in the near term would likely push the Tigers toward a formal committee. Hold Lange in 12-team leagues; add Will Vest as a handcuff in deeper formats.
Jordan Romano
Romano has converted both Rockies saves since signing July 4 on a minor-league deal and appears to be Colorado's preferred ninth-inning option over Senzatela and Bernardino. The Rockies don't generate many save opportunities, but Romano's role is the most defined it's been. Speculative add — low floor, real path to saves in deep leagues.
Gus Varland
Washington is splitting saves between Varland and Clayton Beeter with no apparent plan to consolidate the role. The Nationals have blown 22 saves this season across 11 different pitchers — the messiest bullpen situation in baseball by a wide margin. Avoid in all but the deepest leagues unless you're specifically streaming saves on a game-by-game basis.
Tyler Wells
Ryan Helsley remains on the 60-day IL with UCL inflammation — no surgery confirmed but not ruled out. Baltimore's ninth-inning committee shows no signs of consolidating: Wells leads by save count and July scoreless outings, but Andrew Kittredge, Rico Garcia, and Yennier Cano have all converted saves this season. No closer has been officially named. In 12-team leagues, Wells is the closest thing to a lead option; in 15-team-plus formats, own all four.
Alex Lange
Two blown saves this season have eroded confidence in Lange's hold on the Tigers' ninth inning. Will Vest and Keider Montero have both converted saves, and a third blown save this week would likely formalize a committee. Hold Lange in 12-team leagues but add Will Vest as a handcuff in deeper formats.
Jordan Romano
Romano has converted both Colorado saves since joining the team July 4 on a minor-league deal and appears to be the Rockies' preferred ninth-inning option ahead of Antonio Senzatela and Brennan Bernardino. The Rockies produce few save opportunities, but Romano's role is solidifying. Speculative add in 15-team-plus leagues — low floor, real path to saves.
Caleb Kilian
San Francisco's save committee remains three-way between Kilian (team-leading 8 saves), Erik Miller, and JT Brubaker. No pitcher has separated himself enough to be named the closer. In deep leagues, own all three; in 12-team formats, Kilian is the highest-probability option but saves will continue to be shared.
Tyler Wells
Ryan Helsley landed on the 60-day IL July 19 with UCL inflammation — no structural damage confirmed, but the Orioles are not ruling out surgery. Wells leads the resulting committee with the most saves and the most scoreless outings in July, but Andrew Kittredge, Rico Garcia, and Yennier Cano have all recorded saves. Baltimore has not named a closer. Roster all four in deep leagues; in 12-team formats, Wells is the closest thing to a lead option.
Jacob Webb
Daniel Palencia (flexor strain) has had his return pushed to mid-August, meaning Webb continues as the leading ninth-inning option for Chicago. Webb has 2 saves and 7+ consecutive scoreless innings, but Trent Thornton and Grant Taylor have also converted saves this season. Manager Craig Counsell has not officially named Webb the closer, and a bad outing could open the door quickly. Own Webb in 12-team leagues and above; the Cubs' committee is live but Webb holds the edge.
Jordan Romano
Romano joined Colorado on July 4 after a minor-league deal and has recorded 2 saves since arriving. He has been used in the ninth each time, ahead of Antonio Senzatela and Brennan Bernardino. It's still a small sample, but the Rockies appear to be giving Romano a real look as the team's preferred closer. Speculative add in 15-team-plus leagues — the Rockies do not produce many save opportunities, but Romano's role is solidifying.
Alex Lange
Lange's second blown save of the season on Monday night is eroding confidence in his hold on the Tigers' ninth inning. Will Vest and Keider Montero have both recorded saves this year, and Lange's command has been inconsistent across his last several appearances. The Tigers have not made a formal announcement, but if there is a third blown save this week, a committee designation becomes likely. Hold in 12-team leagues but add Vest as a backup in deeper formats.
Tyler Wells
Ryan Helsley was transferred to the 60-day IL July 19 with UCL inflammation — no structural damage confirmed, but at least a month out with a late-September return best-case. Wells leads the resulting committee with 3 saves and scoreless outings in 6 of 7 July appearances, but Kittredge has 2 saves and Wolfram just earned one July 20. No hierarchy established — treat all three as committee adds.
Gregory Soto
Pittsburgh has never committed to a single closer in 2026. Soto has the best numbers (1.50 ERA, 24:7 K:BB in 18 IP) but shares ninth-inning work with Dennis Santana and Isaac Mattson. A Sports Illustrated report suggested the Pirates will target a closer at the deadline — the in-house committee could collapse into one arm or a new acquisition by August 4.
Jacob Webb
Daniel Palencia (flexor strain, IL since June 16) has had his expected early-August return pushed to mid-August. Webb has been Counsell's first option with 2 saves and 7.1 consecutive scoreless innings, but Trent Thornton and Caleb Thielbar are also in the mix. Webb is the leading candidate but carries command concerns that keep the hold loose.
Clayton Beeter
Beeter leads the Nationals with 7 saves and a 3.62 ERA, but operates in a committee that also includes Gus Varland, Brad Lord, and Cole Henry. Washington's bullpen is one of the worst in baseball, and blown saves have already opened the door for others. Rostering Beeter requires accepting both committee risk and team context risk simultaneously.
Tanner Scott
Scott leads the Dodgers with 14 saves (62% team save share) while Edwin Diaz completes his rehab from April elbow surgery. Diaz appeared in Single-A Ontario on July 11 and is targeting a major-league return within 1-2 weeks per Dave Roberts, though the Dodgers are being cautious given the elbow history. Every save Scott earns right now has an expiration date — hold but track the Diaz rehab closely.
Tyler Wells
Ryan Helsley is back on the IL (right elbow) and Felix Bautista remains on the 60-day IL with a shoulder injury, leaving Baltimore without an established closer for the second time in 2026. Wells, Rico Garcia, Yennier Cano, and Andrew Kittredge are all active ninth-inning candidates — the front office confirmed 'everything is on the table.' Genuine four-way committee with no handshake deal.
Gregory Soto
Manager Don Kelly has been publicly noncommittal all season, using matchups and leverage as his guide. Soto holds the plurality of saves, but Mason Montgomery (30%+ K rate) and Carmen Mlodzinski are both live in close games. True rolling committee — hold only if you're desperate for saves in a deep league.
Daniel Palencia
On the 15-day IL with right elbow inflammation (flexor strain) and no clear return timeline. In his absence the Cubs are running Caleb Thielbar, Phil Maton, and Jacob Webb in the ninth — none with a defined closer pedigree. Chicago saves are essentially unownable until Palencia's elbow clarifies, and the deadline could bring in a veteran arm anyway.
Tanner Scott
Scott has been solid filling for Edwin Diaz (2.56 ERA, 13 saves), but Diaz began a rehab assignment with Single-A Ontario on July 11 and is working his way back. Dave Roberts stressed Diaz still has 'a command of getting major-league hitters out' to prove — but once cleared, Scott reverts to setup. Every save Scott earns right now has an expiration date.
Clayton Beeter
Ten different Nationals pitchers have combined for 27 saves in 2026. Beeter returned from forearm soreness and was handed back-to-back ninth-inning leads, making him the organizational favorite — but Gus Varland (2.46 FIP in the interim) has better underlying metrics and could reclaim the role at any point. Manager Blake Butera has made no public commitment.
Tanner Scott
Still closing for the Dodgers with Edwin Diaz on the 60-day IL, but Diaz is targeting a post-All-Star return. Scott has been exceptional — 14 saves, 2.40 ERA, 0.73 WHIP, 36:3 K:BB over 30 innings. The role ends the moment Diaz is healthy. Hold through at least this week; plan your exit strategy before the Diaz activation window opens.
Tyler Wells
Two saves since Ryan Helsley went back on the IL. Yennier Cano, Andrew Kittredge, and Rico Garcia are all getting ninth-inning looks depending on matchup. Manager Albernaz said 'everything is on the table.' Wells has the best underlying stats in the group but this committee could rotate any night. Hold in deep leagues, drop in shallow.
Jacob Webb
Four saves since Daniel Palencia went on the IL in mid-June, and Craig Counsell has been leaning on Webb most — but Trent Thornton and Caleb Thielbar have both pitched ninth-inning situations. Committee is real. Cubs are buyers heading into August 3, meaning acquiring an established closer would push Webb out overnight. Speculative hold only.
Jordan Romano
Five saves since arriving in Colorado on July 4 and emerging from a committee. Low volume on a rebuilding team, and Colorado is selling at the deadline — Romano is almost certainly being shopped. A trade to a contender with an entrenched closer ends the role. Hold through the deadline only if no better options exist.
Aroldis Chapman
Locked in as Boston's closer with a 2.20 ERA and no internal competition. The watch is purely trade-motivated — Red Sox are sellers and Chapman (~90% deal odds) is almost certainly changing addresses before August 3. If he lands with a team that already has a closer, the role evaporates. Watch the deadline wires closely.
Tanner Scott
Closing for the Dodgers with Edwin Diaz on the 60-day IL (elbow). 14 saves, 2.40 ERA, 0.73 WHIP, and a 36:3 K:BB ratio over 30 innings — elite closer-quality performance. The catch: Diaz is targeting a post-All-Star return and signed for $69M/3 years. Once healthy, Diaz gets the job back. Time-limited role; hold Scott now and plan a transition point.
Tyler Wells
Two saves since Helsley (elbow, second IL stint of 2026) landed on the IL. Yennier Cano, Andrew Kittredge, and Rico Garcia all getting high-leverage looks. Manager Albernaz said 'everything is on the table.' Speculative add in deep leagues — the role could crystallize or rotate week to week.
Jacob Webb
Three saves since Daniel Palencia went on the IL in mid-June and Craig Counsell's current preference, but Trent Thornton and Caleb Thielbar both pitch in ninth-inning situations. Cubs are buyers at the deadline — acquiring an established closer would render Webb irrelevant overnight. Speculative hold only.
Jordan Romano
Five saves since joining Colorado on July 4 and pulling ahead of the committee. Low save volume on a rebuilding Rockies team. Watch for deadline activity — Colorado is selling and could move Romano before August 3, ending the role immediately.
Aroldis Chapman
Locked in as Boston's closer (2.20 ERA, 100 mph) with no internal competition. The watch is purely trade-driven: ~90% deal odds heading into August 3. Landing on the Dodgers, Yankees, or White Sox preserves or improves his fantasy value. Risk is ending up somewhere with an established closer already in place.
Tyler Wells
Two saves since Helsley went on the IL but facing Yennier Cano and Andrew Kittredge for the role. Manager said 'everything is on the table.' Speculative add — saves could shift week to week. High ceiling if Helsley misses all of July.
Jacob Webb
Three saves since Daniel Palencia went on the IL in mid-June; Craig Counsell's current preference, but Trent Thornton and Caleb Thielbar are also getting ninth-inning looks. Cubs are buyers at the deadline — a closer acquisition could make Webb irrelevant overnight.
Jordan Romano
Two saves since joining the Rockies July 4 and appears ahead of the committee. Low save volume in Colorado, but if the role is his through August it's worth a spot in deeper leagues. Watch for Rockies deadline activity — sellers tend to trade veterans.
Aroldis Chapman
Locked in as Boston's closer (2.20 ERA, 100 mph) but trade odds peg him at ~90% to be dealt before August 3. Landing on a buyer — Dodgers, Yankees, White Sox — would likely preserve or improve his fantasy value. The uncertainty is where he lands, not whether the role continues.
Tyler Wells
Has two saves since Helsley went on the IL but faces real competition from Yennier Cano and Andrew Kittredge. Manager said 'everything is on the table.' Speculative add — ownership of the role could shift week to week.
Jacob Webb
Three saves since Daniel Palencia went on the IL in mid-June and is Craig Counsell's current preference, but Trent Thornton and Caleb Thielbar are also getting ninth-inning looks. Add with caution.
Grant Taylor
Dominant in the ninth and the team's default closer, but real reports suggest the Sox want to stretch him to a starter as early as next season. Role is safe for now — watch any extended 2-inning appearances as a signal of a shift.
Jordan Romano
Added July 4 and has recorded both Rockies saves since. Appears ahead of Senzatela and the committee. Low save volume in Colorado, but the role looks like his to keep in the second half.
Tyler Wells
Helsley (elbow inflammation, UCL intact) is out until mid-August at the earliest. Wells posted back-to-back saves July 3-4 and carries a 3.02 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 43:10 K:BB over 41.2 IP. However, the Orioles manager said 'everything is on the table' — Kittredge and Cano are also in the mix. Add Wells everywhere, but consider a small FAAB hedge on Kittredge in deep formats.
Jacob Webb
Palencia (elbow, IL-15) is expected back post-break and will reclaim the role immediately. Until then, Webb leads the committee over Thornton and Thielbar with 4 saves and a 3.18 ERA. Add in daily-move leagues; avoid in weekly formats — Palencia's return could come any day.
Edwin Diaz
Began rehab July 11 at Single-A Ontario, sitting 96-98 mph. Dodgers said 'any moment after the break.' Reclaims the closer role from Tanner Scott upon activation. Diaz's 60-day IL stint has suppressed ownership in most leagues — add before the announcement. Scott drops to setup; own Diaz for saves.
Jordan Romano
Recalled July 4 off a MiLB deal, converted two saves in two chances including a slider-freeze of Freddie Freeman. No clear next option behind him in the Colorado bullpen. Low save-opportunity environment, but a real ninth-inning role is a real ninth-inning role. Speculative add in 14+ team leagues.
Hogan Harris
Has edged out Elvis Alvarado as the A's primary closer option, but Oakland has named no one officially. Harris and Alvarado continue splitting high-leverage work. Neither is safe in weekly formats. Monitor post-break for any sign of consolidation.
Tyler Wells
Helsley (elbow inflammation, UCL intact) is out for weeks. Wells went 2-for-2 in save chances closing the first half — 3.02 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, and a 43:10 K:BB in 41.2 IP. Clear add in all formats. Note: Helsley is expected to avoid surgery and could return mid-second half, so this isn't a season-long answer.
Jacob Webb
Palencia (elbow, IL-15) won't be activated immediately post-break. Webb has 3 saves over three weeks but shares the bullpen with Trent Thornton and Caleb Thielbar. Manager Counsell has shown willingness to go to other arms. Worth rostering in leagues with daily moves; riskier in weekly formats.
Jordan Romano
Added July 4 and has converted both save opportunities since. Low-save-opportunity team in a bad division, but a clean ninth-inning role in a Coors environment is real. Speculative grab in 14+ team leagues or deep formats.
Elvis Alvarado
The A's show no urgency to name a closer — Alvarado and Hogan Harris continue splitting save chances with no hierarchy. Organizational ambiguity makes neither safe in standard formats. Monitor for any sign of consolidation.
Tyler Wells
Wells converted both save chances since Ryan Helsley (elbow, 15-day IL) went down and looks like the clear primary option for now. The metrics back him: 3.02 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 43:10 K:BB in 41.2 innings. The watch flag: Helsley has missed time twice this season with the same elbow issue and should return before the trade deadline, at which point Wells reverts to setup. Ride the saves until the Helsley activation notice.
Jacob Webb
Webb is the primary option in the Cubs' ninth inning with Palencia out (mild flexor strain, not back until post-break), and he has responded with four saves and no runs allowed over his last 7.1 innings. The problem: 15 walks in 39.2 innings on the season, and the walk issues resurface in high-leverage spots. Worth rostering in 14+ team saves-hungry leagues, but every outing carries blown-save risk.
Jordan Romano
Romano has picked up multiple saves since signing July 4 and appears to have the Rockies' ninth inning to himself. The caveats are real: a 7.36 ERA at prior stops this season, low Colorado win totals, and a roster situation that could change at the deadline. In very deep leagues only — if you need saves and can live with volatility, Romano is the most actionable deep spec available.
Caleb Kilian
Named closer despite a 12.08 ERA in save situations and three blown saves this season — manager Tony Vitello is openly reviewing options. Ryan Walker returned from Triple-A and is 3-for-6 in save chances this year. This is a full committee; neither pitcher is safe to roster as your primary closer, but there are saves available if you want to stash one.
Clayton Beeter
Beeter, Gus Varland (5 saves), and Richard Lovelady (4 saves) have split the ninth inning all season with no clear hierarchy. Beeter has found his velocity again and gets the slight edge in recent usage. In a 14+ team saves-hungry league, he is worth a speculative add — but do not expect nine innings of Beeter per week.
Jordan Romano
Signed July 4 and has looked like the designated closer immediately, converting two of three chances. The 7.36 ERA on the season at other stops is ugly, but the Rockies' bullpen is thin and Romano has the save experience. A saves-at-Coors spec in deep leagues — the win rate is low but when Colorado does win, Romano appears to be getting the ball.
Tanner Scott
Still closing while Edwin Díaz (60-day IL, loose bodies in elbow) works toward a post-ASB return — Díaz threw live BP and is targeting July 21. Scott has 12 saves with a 2.02 ERA across 38 appearances. The clock is ticking: if Díaz returns healthy around July 21 as expected, Scott reverts to a holds-only asset. Ride the saves until then, but make the switch quickly.
Tyler Wells
Two saves in two chances since Helsley (elbow) went back on the IL. Wells has a 3.02 ERA and 43:10 K:BB ratio across 41.2 innings — he's earned this opportunity. Add him now, but committee risk remains with Yennier Cano and Andrew Kittredge both capable of ninth-inning appearances.
Grant Taylor
Taylor (2.89 ERA, 65 K in 46.2 IP, 3 saves) has the best profile in the White Sox bullpen by a wide margin. Seranthony Dominguez (4.85 ERA, 5 blown saves) is hemorrhaging the role. Taylor is the target in this committee — add him over Dominguez in all formats.
Jordan Romano
Added to Colorado's roster July 4 and immediately recorded two saves in his first three days. He's holding a 7.36 ERA on the season, but the Rockies bullpen is thin and Romano has experience. A speculative add in deep leagues — saves at Coors still count.
Tanner Scott
Closing for the Dodgers while Edwin Díaz (60-day IL, loose bodies in elbow) targets a post-All-Star return. Scott has 12 saves with a 2.02 ERA in 38 appearances. Enjoy the saves while you have them — Díaz threw live BP this week and is on track to return around July 21.
Jacob Webb
Primary closer in the Cubs' post-Palencia committee alongside Trent Thornton. Three saves in four chances since mid-June — Webb gets the home-game edge, Thornton steals road appearances. Add Webb in all formats at 5% owned. Thornton is worth stashing in 14+ team leagues as a secondary source.
Jordan Romano
Recalled from Triple-A and immediately handed back-to-back save chances for Colorado. The Rockies bullpen is thin and Romano has closing experience — a speculative add in deep leagues chasing saves. Factor in the Coors context when evaluating his ratios.
Pete Fairbanks
Three straight outings with a run allowed. Michael Peterson (2.25 ERA, 0.81 WHIP, 23 K in last 16 IP) is clearly the next in line. Trade Fairbanks while you still can get value — the role is actively eroding.
Aroldis Chapman
Still closing effectively (2.36 ERA, 18 saves) but the last-place Red Sox are a strong trade deadline candidate per multiple reports. He'll close until dealt, but a new team likely uses him differently. Explore selling now while his value is high.
Tyler Wells
Two for two since Helsley went on the IL. Strong peripherals (3.02 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 31.9 K-BB% over the last month) and the clear organizational preference — add everywhere.
Aroldis Chapman
Still an All-Star (2.36 ERA, 18 saves) but the last-place Red Sox are 90% likely to trade him before the August 3 deadline per ESPN's Passan. He'll close until dealt, but a new team likely uses him differently. Explore a trade now.
Jordan Romano
Recalled from the minors and immediately handed two save chances for Colorado. The Rockies' bullpen is thin and Romano has closing experience — worth a speculative add in deep leagues chasing saves.
Pete Fairbanks
Fairbanks has allowed a run or more in three straight outings. With Anthony Bender on the IL, Michael Peterson (2.25 ERA, 0.81 WHIP, 23 K in last 16 IP) is next in line. The role could change any day.
Tyler Wells
Immediate successor to the injured Helsley — back-to-back saves, 0.60 WHIP over last 10 outings, 31.9 K-BB% in that stretch. Yennier Cano and Andrew Kittredge provide committee risk, but Wells has the hot hand and manager trust right now. Add in every format.
Pete Fairbanks
7.27 ERA over his last four appearances with at least one run allowed in each outing. Michael Petersen (3.08 ERA, 14 holds, 10.9 K/9) is a credible replacement and has been functioning as the primary setup man for over a month. This closer situation could flip any day — monitor before rostering.
Jordan Romano
Recalled July 4 and earning save opportunities for Colorado, but the Rockies' limited win total caps his ceiling. Relevant in 14-team-plus leagues only; avoid in standard formats where save volume matters.
Jacob Webb
Daniel Palencia (elbow) is confirmed out through the All-Star break, leaving Webb as the leading save option in Chicago's bullpen committee. He leads the group with three saves and has converted his opportunities cleanly, but Trent Thornton and Caleb Thielbar are also in the closer mix. Add Webb in 12-team-plus leagues while Palencia remains out — the Leverage Ledger numbers make him the clear first option when the Cubs protect a late lead.
Baltimore Orioles Committee
Ryan Helsley remains on the IL with elbow discomfort (second stint this season). Rico Garcia continues to lead the committee — 0.68 ERA, 0.61 WHIP, 99th-percentile whiff rate — and should be owned in every league. No formal closer designation from manager Brandon Hyde; add Garcia and stream save opportunities whenever Baltimore holds a late-inning lead.
Jordan Romano
Romano recorded his first save as a Rockie on July 6 — fifth of 2026 overall — and appears to be settling into the Colorado ninth-inning role. The Rockies' win total limits save volume, but Romano has the track record and the stuff to accumulate counting stats in a hitter-friendly environment. Stream in 14-team-plus leagues and deep formats while this new arrangement solidifies.
Baltimore Orioles Committee
Helsley is on the IL for the second time this season with elbow discomfort, leaving Baltimore without a formal closer. Rico Garcia is the committee's best arm by every measurable metric (0.68 ERA, 0.61 WHIP, 99th pct whiff rate) and should receive the plurality of save opportunities, though manager Brandon Hyde has not made an official designation. Stream save ops whenever Baltimore is protecting a late lead; avoid anyone other than Garcia as a consistent add.
Edwin Diaz
Diaz threw live BP July 5 for the first time since elbow surgery — a minor-league rehab assignment comes next, with activation targeted after the All-Star break. Once active, he immediately reclaims the Dodgers' ninth inning. Fantasy managers holding him in IL slots are within weeks of a significant payoff. The team currently covering save opportunities will step aside.
Emilio Pagan
Pagan was activated June 30 and has re-established himself as the Reds' primary closer after his injury absence. He has full command of the role, but Cincinnati's record limits the volume of save opportunities available. Roster him in 12+ team leagues if saves are a need; temper expectations in shallow formats where the Reds' win total won't generate enough chances to move the needle.
Baltimore Orioles Committee
With Ryan Helsley on the 15-day IL for the second time this season, the Orioles have no formally designated closer. Tyler Wells handled a save opportunity in Cincinnati on July 4, but the organization has not named a replacement. Yennier Cano, Rico Garcia, Andrew Kittredge, and Anthony Nunez (recently recalled) are all in the mix. Do not roster any individual Orioles reliever as a true closer — stream save opportunities only when Baltimore is a clear favorite in a specific game.
Caleb Kilian
Giants manager Tony Vitello officially named Kilian the team's closer in late June. He's converted 4 of 5 save opportunities with a 3.34 ERA and 9.7 K/9 across 29 appearances, but his walk rate remains elevated and he's had limited save opportunities since the announcement. San Francisco's record limits the save chances available; Kilian is worth rostering in 14+ team leagues as a speculative option, but the low-volume situation caps his fantasy ceiling until the Giants show sustained winning.
Baltimore Orioles Committee
With Helsley back on the IL for the second time, the Orioles bullpen enters the holiday weekend with no designated closer. Yennier Cano, Rico Garcia, Andrew Kittredge, Grant Wolfram, and newly recalled Anthony Nunez will handle save situations by matchup. Do not spend roster space on any individual Orioles arm — stream save opportunities only when Baltimore is a clear favorite in a given game.
Caleb Kilian
The Giants formally named Kilian their closer in late June. He's converted 4 of 5 save opportunities with a 3.34 ERA and 9.7 K/9 across 28 appearances, but the walk rate remains elevated. Manager Tony Vitello has committed to Kilian for the ninth inning while using Keaton Winn and Erik Miller in earlier high-leverage spots. Add in 14+ team leagues before the role fully cements — the erratic command keeps it from being a full green light, but the job is clearly his to lose.
Brandyn Garcia
Paul Sewald continues to struggle and Garcia has posted a six-game scoreless streak with a save and three holds. The Diamondbacks haven't made a formal closer announcement, but ninth-inning usage is clearly shifting Garcia's way. Add in 14+ team leagues before the announcement comes — one more Sewald blown save likely triggers an immediate role handoff.
Elvis Alvarado
Alvarado has 2 saves and 4 straight scoreless outings since his June 5 recall and is the closest Oakland has come to a defined closer all year. Mason Barnett (1.23 ERA, 33.3% K rate) remains in the mix, but Alvarado has the hot hand. Add in 14+ team leagues and watch the committee split — two or three more clean save conversions likely locks the role down.
Brandyn Garcia
Paul Sewald continues to struggle and Garcia has a 6-game scoreless streak with a save and three holds. The Diamondbacks haven't made a formal role change, but the ninth-inning usage is clearly shifting. Add Garcia in 14+ team leagues before the announcement — the next Sewald blown save could trigger an immediate handoff.
Cincinnati Reds committee
Emilio Pagan's hamstring injury opened the door and nobody has walked through it — four saves since he went down, four different relievers. With Pierce Johnson and Graham Ashcraft also sidelined, there's no clear next man. Stream individual Reds ninth-inning appearances only in DFS or the deepest of redraft formats when Cincinnati is a significant favorite.
Minnesota Twins committee
Since trading Jhoan Duran before last season, Minnesota has accumulated 17 saves across 11 different relievers. This is the most fragmented save situation in baseball with no resolution on the horizon. Do not spend roster space on any individual Twins arm — stream save opportunities only when the Twins are a clear favorite in a given game.
Ryan Helsley
Helsley was warming in Baltimore's bullpen on July 1 and could not enter due to right elbow discomfort — a significant red flag. He also blew a save June 20 versus the Dodgers. If an IL placement is announced today, Yennier Cano is the top internal candidate for Baltimore saves, with Tyler Wells also in the mix. Add Cano proactively in all formats before the announcement lands.
Brandyn Garcia
Paul Sewald has been struggling and Garcia has strung together a 6-game scoreless streak with a save and 3 holds (0.428 WHIP in that span). The Diamondbacks have not officially changed the closer designation, but the usage pattern is shifting. Add Garcia now in 14+ team leagues before the formal announcement — if Sewald blows another one, this role could change hands immediately.
Jacob Webb
Daniel Palencia remains on the 15-day IL with right elbow inflammation. Manager Craig Counsell is using a committee of Webb, Caleb Thielbar, Ryan Rolison, and Phil Maton for ninth-inning work, with Rolison earning his first career save July 1. Webb leads the group in save opportunities but the committee nature limits reliability. Stream in the deepest of formats only.
Seranthony Dominguez
Dominguez has 12 saves but has blown his last two with command issues. Grant Taylor and Bryan Hudson are potential replacements internally. He retains the role for now, but two consecutive blown saves with control problems puts the job in jeopardy heading into July. In 10-team leagues he is holdable; in shallower formats with better options on the wire, the sell window is open.
Clayton Beeter
Washington continues to run a full closer committee with Beeter as the chair and Gus Varland and Richard Lovelady also seeing ninth-inning work. No reliable closer to own here — streaming only in the deepest of formats, and only when Washington is heavily favored in a given game.
Tanner Scott
Scott is operating as the Dodgers' primary closer with Edwin Díaz (elbow surgery, April 22) targeting a second-half return. His 1.04 ERA through the first three months of the season is a massive turnaround from a 4.74 ERA in 2025. Manager Dave Roberts has confirmed Scott gets the bulk of save opportunities, but a committee of Scott, Alex Vesia, and Blake Treinen is in use. Díaz's return — likely August — immediately restores the original hierarchy. Own Scott now and plan to monitor the Díaz rehab timeline.
Garrett Whitlock
Whitlock earned his first save of the season Monday when Aroldis Chapman was unavailable after consecutive appearances. Chapman remains the Red Sox's primary closer and is an elite performer — but he is a prominent trade deadline candidate, and if Boston sells, Whitlock inherits the role immediately. Roster in 14+ team leagues as a speculative Chapman-trade play; in standard formats, keep a close eye on Boston's deadline activity in the next two weeks.
Jacob Webb
Daniel Palencia has been on the 15-day IL since June 16 with right elbow inflammation and has no clear return date. Manager Craig Counsell continues a matchup-based committee with Webb, Caleb Thielbar, and Phil Maton all seeing ninth-inning work. Webb leads the trio in save opportunities and is the clearest single name to own in Chicago, but the committee nature limits week-to-week reliability. Roster in 14+ team leagues; acceptable streaming option in standard formats on favorable matchups.
Justin Lawrence
Lawrence was claimed off waivers from the Twins and immediately earned his first Nationals save, working through a hit and a walk in extra innings. Washington has used 11 different pitchers for saves this season with no defined closer. Lawrence's debut save does not lock in the role — it was situational — but his fresh opportunity in a thin bullpen makes him worth monitoring and stashing in deep leagues. Two or three more conversions and the job crystallizes.
Jacob Webb
Daniel Palencia has been on the 15-day IL since June 16 with right elbow inflammation and has no clear return date. Manager Craig Counsell is running a matchup-based committee with Webb, Caleb Thielbar, and Phil Maton all seeing ninth-inning work. Webb leads the trio with two saves since Palencia went down. In 14+ team leagues he's the best single name to own, but monitor usage daily before locking anyone in as a reliable save source.
Elvis Alvarado
Alvarado emerged as the A's primary closer after a June 5 recall and had four straight scoreless appearances, but has since allowed four home runs in his last four outings including a blown save against the Giants. Manager Mark Kotsay has not officially changed the job, but the homer rate is alarming and Oakland's committee history makes a role change possible. Hold cautiously; set a daily lineup reminder.
Emilio Pagán
Pagán completed a scoreless rehab inning at Triple-A on June 28 (nine pitches, eight strikes) and is expected to be activated this week. The Reds have posted a 5.59 ERA from the ninth inning since he went on the IL May 5, using four different pitchers for saves. Pagán resumes the closer role immediately upon activation — he's a high-priority pickup if available in your league, and worth a real FAAB bid.
Caleb Kilian
Manager Tony Vitello named Kilian the Giants' primary closer two weeks ago, but he has already blown a save. The role is still his — there's no clear alternative in San Francisco's bullpen — but the lack of a reliable backup means another high-leverage failure could trigger a committee. Roster in 14+ team leagues; not worth a heavy FAAB investment in standard formats.
Jacob Webb
Daniel Palencia went to the 15-day IL on June 16 with right elbow inflammation and there's no clear return date. Manager Craig Counsell is running a matchup-based committee — Webb leads with two saves since Palencia went down, but Caleb Thielbar and Phil Maton are also in the mix. In 14+ team leagues, Webb is the best single-name grab, but monitor usage daily before locking anyone in.
Gus Varland
Washington has run a full closer-by-committee all season with 22 blown saves (worst in MLB) spread across 11 pitchers. Varland leads the team with 6 saves, Beeter has 5, and Lovelady has 4. After Beeter's fourth blown save on June 26, Varland is the clearest priority if you're carrying one Nationals reliever — but don't invest real FAAB here.
Emilio Pagan
Pagan (Grade 2 hamstring strain, out since May 5) threw a scoreless rehab inning in Triple-A on June 28 — nine pitches, eight strikes — and is expected back in Cincinnati this week. The interim committee has posted a 5.59 ERA since May 6. Pagan resumes the closer role immediately upon activation. High-priority add if available; check wires daily.
Aroldis Chapman
Chapman blew his second save of the season on June 28 against the Yankees, allowing two runs in the ninth — though Boston won 5-4 in 10. He has 16 saves on the year and remains one of the best relievers in baseball, but a second straight rough outing could put the job in question. Hold for now and monitor closely through the week.
Emilio Pagan
Pagan started his Triple-A rehab June 25 — just six pitches in a 1-2-3 inning — and needs at least one more appearance before the Reds bring him back. In the meantime, Tony Santillan remains the nominal closer but has underperformed. Four different pitchers have recorded the last four Cincinnati saves. Don't roster more than one Reds arm in standard formats; the distribution is genuinely random until Pagan returns.
Jacob Webb
Daniel Palencia remains on the 15-day IL with right elbow inflammation (placed June 16, no clear return date). Webb is the front-runner but Caleb Thielbar and Phil Maton have both converted opportunities. The Cubs have produced limited save chances, making this even harder to navigate. Only carry one Cubs reliever in standard formats — two is dead weight given how unpredictable the distribution has been.
Clayton Beeter
Four blown saves on the season, yet the Nationals doubled down by optioning backup Gus Varland after last week's meltdown — confirming Beeter as the role holder despite the shaky track record. Washington leads MLB with 24 blown saves in 48 opportunities. The role is his to lose in the near term, but the floor is very low. Speculative add only in 14+ team leagues.
Alex Lange
Six consecutive saves since Carlos Estévez (shoulder IL) and Lucas Erceg (blown saves) fell out of the picture. Lange hasn't allowed a run in his last 7.1 innings and is the clearest daily closer in Kansas City. Watch status reflects Estévez's eventual return, not current production — hold Lange with confidence and track the Estévez timeline.
Jacob Webb
Daniel Palencia remains on the 15-day IL with right elbow inflammation with no clear return timeline. Webb is the nominal front-runner but Caleb Thielbar and Phil Maton have both converted opportunities in his absence. The Cubs have generated limited save chances overall. Don't roster more than one piece of this committee in standard formats — the distribution is genuinely unpredictable.
Clayton Beeter
Four blown saves on the season, yet the Nationals optioned backup Gus Varland after Thursday's meltdown, essentially confirming Beeter as their closer going forward. The team leads MLB with 24 blown saves in 48 opportunities through 82 games — the role is unstable but his. Low floor speculation at best in standard formats.
Alex Lange
Lange has converted six consecutive saves after both Carlos Estévez (shoulder IL) and Lucas Erceg (consecutive blown saves) fell out of the picture. He hasn't allowed a run in his last 7.1 innings and is the clearest save-role option in Kansas City. Classified watch given Estévez's eventual return, but the day-to-day role is Lange's to lose.
Ryan Helsley
Returned from right elbow inflammation IL on June 16 and immediately reclaimed the closer role from Rico Garcia. Performance since has been uneven. The elbow history and the team's tendency to use him on back-to-back days make this worth monitoring closely. Hold Helsley but have Garcia rostered in deeper formats as insurance.
Jacob Webb
Daniel Palencia (flexor strain, placed IL June 16) is out a minimum of three weeks. Webb handled Thursday's save but Caleb Thielbar and Phil Maton are fully in the mix. Every Cubs save opportunity is essentially a lottery draw. Low-floor speculation only — don't roster more than one of them.
Elvis Alvarado
Scoreless in five of his last six appearances with an elite K rate, and his workload share is trending toward locked-in. Hogan Harris is still on the roster but Alvarado is clearly separating. Best upside play among all unstable closer situations — add now before the official designation arrives.
Caleb Kilian
Named the Giants' closer two weeks ago, five saves collected, 2.97 ERA. The team is bad, but West Coast low-scoring games create real save opportunities. New enough in the role that the situation is still 'watch' — but he's held it cleanly so far. Worth rostering in 12-team formats.
Ryan Helsley
Reinstated from IL (right elbow inflammation) on June 16 and immediately reclaimed the closer role. Has converted 7 of 8 saves this season but is pitching through a recently inflamed elbow. The performance has been good since his return — but monitor his usage after back-to-back appearances. One rough outing could re-open the situation.
Taylor Rogers
Shares Minnesota's save situations with Yoendrys Gomez and at least three other candidates in a full bullpen-by-committee that has showed no sign of resolving. Not worth a roster spot in standard formats. Check Closer Monkey daily if you're in a very deep league where any save opportunity has value.
Elvis Alvarado
Scoreless in 5 of his last 6 appearances, posting a 0.36 WHIP with elite K numbers since emerging as Oakland's lead option. Hogan Harris is still in the picture but Alvarado's workload share is growing. Best upside add among committee closers in the short term.
Jacob Webb
Daniel Palencia (15-day IL, elbow inflammation) has not returned. Webb, Caleb Thielbar, and Phil Maton continue splitting duties with no clear hierarchy. Every Cubs save opportunity is a fresh lottery draw until Palencia is back.
Taylor Rogers
Minnesota's closer situation has as many as five active candidates, with Rogers and Yoendrys Gomez as the current front-runners. Nobody is owning the job yet. Speculative roster hold only — check the Ledger daily for shifts in usage patterns.
Drew Anderson
Anderson and Kyle Finnegan have been sharing Detroit's save opportunities since mid-June with no clear winner emerging. Low-floor speculation only — viable in very deep leagues where any save opportunity has value, not worth a roster spot in standard formats.
Elvis Alvarado
Scoreless in 5 of his last 6 appearances, posting a 0.36 WHIP with 13 Ks and zero walks in that span. Hogan Harris is still technically the lead dog, but Alvarado is closing fast. Worth stashing in 14-team leagues.
Jacob Webb
Daniel Palencia (elbow inflammation) is on the 15-day IL. Webb, Caleb Thielbar, and Phil Maton are sharing duties with no clear pecking order. Every Cubs save opportunity is a coin flip until Palencia returns.
Caleb Kilian
Named primary Giants closer in mid-June and has delivered: 3.06 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 38 Ks in 32.1 IP. Role is real but new enough that it doesn't yet qualify as locked. Add where available — especially in NL-only formats.
Caleb Kilian
Formally named closer June 13, converting saves since. Eight consecutive scoreless appearances going into this week. Role is clear but 'watch' status applies because the Giants' win total limits his opportunities — they're a .490 club. Add him for the saves volume opportunity, not a steady ratios play.
Jacob Webb / Committee
Palencia began a throwing program this week (right elbow flexor strain, second stint on IL). At minimum 10 more days of committee saves before Palencia can be evaluated for a return. Webb leads the committee with the most saves and the most high-leverage appearances — grab him at 1% owned and stream through Palencia's return.
Alex Vesia / Committee
Edwin Diaz is out for the year, Tanner Scott is on the IL with elbow inflammation, Blake Treinen joined Scott on the IL last week with the same. Vesia and Jack Dreyer are the remaining late-inning options in a true two-man rotation. Stream individual high-leverage appearances — don't commit permanent roster space to Vesia in standard leagues.
Alex Lange
Has converted four consecutive save opportunities since taking over from Lucas Erceg. The deployment pattern is unmistakably clear; the formal announcement has not come. At under 20% owned, add now and hold through the official word — Royals are winning close games and the saves will continue to flow.
Yoendrys Gómez
Four saves in June, 1.65 ERA, 1.10 WHIP since joining Minnesota. The Twins used 11 different relievers for saves in 2026 and the committee label technically still applies, but Gómez has been the primary arm in the highest-leverage spots. Standard-league consideration; deep-league must-add.
Jacob Webb / Committee
Palencia shut down through June 28 before beginning a throwing program (right elbow flexor strain, second stint). Webb leads the committee over Caleb Thielbar and Phil Maton with the most recent save and the most high-leverage deployment. At least 10 days of committee saves available; Webb is still under 10% owned.
Alex Vesia / Committee
Edwin Diaz is done for the year, Tanner Scott is on the IL with elbow inflammation, and now Blake Treinen joined them June 20 with the same. Vesia and Jack Dreyer are the remaining options in a true 2-man rotation. Saves available but daily assignments are unpredictable — stream individual high-leverage appearances rather than committing roster space.
Committee
Emilio Pagan out with a Grade 2 hamstring strain. Multiple relievers have shared ninth-inning duties with no consensus heir — Tony Santillan was the presumed frontrunner and hasn't delivered. Avoid for anything other than individual high-leverage streaming.
Alex Lange
Has gone 4-for-4 in save chances since taking over from Lucas Erceg (6 blown saves in 17 tries). The deployment pattern is clear but the role isn't formally locked. Still under 20% owned — add now and hold through the formal announcement.
Yoendrys Gómez
Seven saves in 2026, four in June. Has a 1.65 ERA and 1.10 WHIP since joining Minnesota and a 29.4% strikeout rate. The Twins have used 11 different relievers for saves this year, so the committee history is real — but Gomez has emerged as the primary option. Deep-league add; standard-league consideration if the role firms up.
Jacob Webb / Committee
Palencia on IL-15 (right elbow flexor strain, second stint). Webb recorded a save June 18 and leads the committee over Caleb Thielbar and Phil Maton. Palencia shut down through June 28 before ramping up — at least 10 days of committee saves available. Webb is still under 10% owned.
Alex Vesia / Committee
Edwin Diaz done for the year; Tanner Scott now also on the IL with elbow inflammation. Vesia, Jack Dreyer, and Blake Treinen rotating 9th-inning duties with no consensus hierarchy. Saves available but daily assignment is unpredictable — stream individual high-leverage appearances, don't commit roster space.
Rico Garcia
Ryan Helsley targeting a late June return from elbow inflammation. Garcia has a 0.66 ERA in the vacancy. The role reverts once Helsley is activated — but Helsley's elbow history makes that anything but guaranteed. Ride Garcia now; reconsider when an IL-activation date is confirmed.
Committee
Emilio Pagan out with a Grade 2 hamstring strain. Four different relievers have recorded saves since the injury; Tony Santillan was the presumed heir but hasn't delivered. Avoid unless streaming individual high-leverage appearances.
Alex Lange
Took over after Lucas Erceg's 6 blown saves in 17 tries and has gone 4-for-4 in save chances since. Role isn't formally locked, but the deployment pattern is unambiguous. Under 20% owned — still a clear add.
Jacob Webb / Committee
Palencia on 15-day IL (elbow inflammation, 2nd stint). Webb recorded a save June 18 and leads the committee over Thielbar and Maton. Under 5% owned — he is the top closer add of the weekend.
Alex Vesia / Committee
Edwin Diaz is done for the year; Tanner Scott joined him on the IL with elbow inflammation. Vesia, Jack Dreyer, and Blake Treinen are splitting 9th-inning duties with no consensus favorite. Saves are available but unpredictable — stream with caution.
Rico Garcia (Ryan Helsley targeting late June return)
Helsley is on the 15-day IL with elbow inflammation and targeting a late June return. Garcia has posted a 0.66 ERA in the vacancy. Once Helsley returns, the role reverts — but his own elbow history makes that anything but guaranteed. Buy Garcia while Helsley is out.
Alex Lange
Lange went 4-for-4 in save chances after taking over from Lucas Erceg (6 blown saves in 17 tries, now in mop-up duty). The role is not formally cemented, but the deployment pattern is unambiguous. Under 20% owned — still a clear add.
Trevor Megill
Megill holds the closer title, but Joel Kuhnel's June 19 blown save — a game-tying solo HR to Manzardo — added another layer of uncertainty. The Brewers' hierarchy has been a revolving door all season. Megill is the presumptive closer, but nothing in Milwaukee is locked in.
Committee
Emilio Pagan out 6 weeks with a Grade 2 hamstring strain. Four different relievers have recorded saves since the injury; no clear replacement has emerged. Avoid unless streaming individual high-leverage appearances.
Alex Lange
Taking over Kansas City's save opportunities after weeks of a deteriorating committee. Wednesday's close (19 pitches, scoreless, five whiffs against the 3–4–5–6 Nationals hitters) was his best-looking ninth-inning work of the season. The Royals have not made a formal announcement, but the deployment pattern is clear. Available in most leagues at a likely sub-25% ownership — add now before the formal designation drives FAAB prices up.
Louis Varland
Varland leads Toronto's closer committee with 14 saves after the Blue Jays benched Jeff Hoffman from the ninth-inning role. The current hierarchy is Varland, then Tyler Rogers, then Hoffman — and Varland is claiming roughly 55–60% of save opportunities when he's pitching well. He struck out the side Wednesday in 10 pitches for his 14th save. Not locked in, but the clear #1 arm in the committee. Add in any format if he's available.
Andrés Muñoz
Muñoz converted just two of his last five save opportunities and has allowed a run in three of those five outings — a jarring departure from a 2025 season in which he allowed only two home runs across 62+ innings. He remains Seattle's primary closer and the talent is unquestionable, but the June blip is significant enough to monitor. If José Ferrer earns a ninth-inning chance while Muñoz is struggling, the committee risk in Seattle becomes real. Hold firmly but keep eyes open.
Ryan Helsley
Reinstated Tuesday from a 47-day IL stint (right elbow inflammation) after two clean Triple-A appearances with five strikeouts and zero earned runs. Before the injury he was 7-for-7 in saves with a 2.53 ERA — legitimate top-10 closer numbers. Watch his first post-IL outing; if velocity and location hold, he is locked in. Anthony Nunez was optioned to clear the roster spot, so the role is his to keep.
Grant Taylor
Taylor has two saves and is forcing Chicago's hand with a 1.93 ERA and 50:9 K:BB across 32.2 innings — among the best ratios of any AL reliever. The nominal closer Seranthony Dominguez (4.82 ERA) is struggling and the White Sox have publicly described his role as 'flexible,' with Taylor receiving ninth-inning opportunities. Add him in 12-team leagues before the formal announcement makes him a priority pickup everywhere.
Elvis Alvarado
Recalled June 5, Alvarado has two saves and four consecutive scoreless appearances — the cleanest recent run from any Oakland pitcher in high leverage. The A's have used six different pitchers for their 19 saves this season and have not named a closer, but Alvarado is the current front-runner. Viable in deep formats (14+ team) where any save opportunity has value; too volatile for standard leagues given the committee nature.
Yoendrys Gomez
Five saves since arriving from Tampa Bay in early May, with a 1.65 ERA and 11.0 K/9 with the Twins. Four of those saves have come in June. He is the clear top option in Minnesota's ninth inning, but analysts note the source of his breakthrough is not fully explained — he leans more heavily on his sweeper with the Twins than he did in Tampa. Watch for the Twins to formally name him the closer if the saves continue through the week.
Hogan Harris
Harris leads Oakland's committee with five saves and nine holds — the team's highest-leverage reliever — but six different pitchers have combined for the A's 19 saves this season. Justin Sterner and Scott Barlow have also recorded saves recently. This is a true committee with no clear pecking order, only worth targeting in very deep leagues where any save opportunity matters.
Alex Lange
Lange has converted back-to-back saves and is pulling ahead of Lucas Erceg in Kansas City's unsettled closer competition. The Royals have not formally announced a closer, but Lange is receiving the most ninth-inning looks. Monitor through the week — consolidation here would make him a legitimate 12-team add.
Mason Miller
Miller was placed on the bereavement list Monday ahead of the Padres' series in St. Louis. He leads the NL with 19 saves and is one of the most dominant closers in baseball, so this is a short-term absence — not a role threat. Tyler Zuber and Calvin Faucher are the most likely bridge options. Retain Miller; you may have a window to grab Zuber cheaply if your roster has room.
Alex Lange
Lange has converted back-to-back saves and is emerging as the primary ninth-inning option ahead of Lucas Erceg, who has been inconsistent. The Royals have not formally named a closer, but Lange is getting the looks. If this consolidates through the week he becomes a legitimate add in 12-team leagues.
Rico Garcia
Garcia and Anthony Nunez continue splitting saves while Ryan Helsley finishes his rehab from right elbow inflammation. Helsley's most recent outing was strong (3 Ks, 1 IP, 14 pitches) and a late-June return remains the target. Hold the bridge pieces but do not acquire Garcia at premium FAAB.
Bryan Hudson
Hudson continues to get the most ninth-inning looks in Chicago's unsettled bullpen and has recorded recent saves in back-to-back opportunities. The role has not been formally locked down, but Hudson is the safest bet in the group. Monitor for further consolidation before spending significant FAAB.
Will Vest
Kenley Jansen is on the IL, Kyle Finnegan's groin is questionable, and three different relievers have blown saves in consecutive days. Will Vest has been getting ninth-inning work but the situation is fully unrosterable in standard formats. The committee has no defined hierarchy.
Rico Garcia
Bridging with Ryan Helsley (4 saves, 3 saves from Nunez) through Helsley's rehab. Hold Garcia for the bridge saves but be ready to flip your roster spot back to Helsley the moment he's activated — likely late June. Do not acquire Garcia at FAAB premium.
Yoendrys Gómez
Gómez leads the Twins' committee with 4 saves but Travis Adams and Anthony Banda are also receiving ninth-inning work. Manager Derek Shelton has not identified a clear closer. Viable in very deep leagues with two RP spots; skip in standard formats where the save risk is too high.
Bryan Hudson
Hudson earned his third save in a Cubs committee situation Saturday, working around a walk to retire Michael Harris II and Ozzie Albies in a high-leverage spot. The Cubs closer role is not settled, but Hudson is getting the most looks for now. Monitor for further consolidation.
Zach Maxwell
Maxwell holds short-term momentum in Cincinnati's committee after earning a recent save, but multiple arms — Tejay Antone, Pierce Johnson, Brock Burke — are also seeing ninth-inning work. Emilio Pagan's looming return makes this a temporary situation. Stream Maxwell for a week or two, but do not invest heavy FAAB on a role that dissolves the moment Pagan is activated.
Alex Lange
Lange has been converting saves cleanly since taking the job from Lucas Erceg, who led MLB in blown saves. Carlos Estevez (left foot contusion) remains weeks from returning, giving Lange a clear runway. He has 26-save closing experience from Detroit in 2023 and is handling the role without drama. At roughly 20% owned, he is one of the widest value gaps in saves right now. Priority add if you have a second closer spot.
Yoendrys Gomez
Minnesota has used more than 10 different pitchers in save situations in 2026 — a franchise record pace. Gomez is the de facto frontrunner with four saves and a 16:4 K-to-BB ratio, but manager Derek Shelton keeps mixing in Cole Sands and Trevor Megill. Viable in deep leagues with two closer spots. Skip in standard 10- or 12-team formats unless everything better is already claimed.
Andrés Muñoz
Five blown saves in 2026 and a career-worst hits-per-nine rate, yet the Mariners have not moved off him. With Matt Brash now on the 15-day IL, there is no obvious alternative. Muñoz converted a save earlier this week and his slider grip issue — which he disclosed in April — has shown incremental improvement. Hold if you own him; do not overpay to acquire him.
Zach Maxwell
Maxwell earned his first career save on June 10 and holds short-term momentum in the Reds' wide-open committee. Emilio Pagan (Grade 2 hamstring) is still not throwing, leaving Maxwell, Tejay Antone, Pierce Johnson, and Brock Burke rotating through the ninth. Maxwell's nine-pitch, three-up-three-down save gives him the inside track for the next few days, but nothing in Cincinnati is stable. Best used as a streaming add only — do not expect two or three saves in a week.
Yoendrys Gomez
Minnesota has used 10-plus different pitchers in save situations this season — a franchise record pace. Gomez is the most reliable arm (four saves, 16:4 K:BB, one earned run in 12⅔ innings) and manager Derek Shelton's clear preference, but Cole Sands and Trevor Megill keep getting mixed in. Viable in deep leagues with two closer spots; avoid in standard 10- to 12-team formats unless every better option is already rostered.
Alex Lange
Five consecutive saves without a blown opportunity since taking the job from Lucas Erceg (MLB-leading six blown saves). Carlos Estevez (left foot contusion) is still weeks from returning. Lange has the closing pedigree — 26 saves with Detroit in 2023 — and is handling the role cleanly. At roughly 20% owned he represents one of the widest ownership gaps in fantasy saves. Priority add in any league with two closer spots.
Andrés Muñoz
Five blown saves and a career-worst 8.9 hits per nine innings in 2026, yet the Mariners have not moved toward replacing him. His slider grip issue — something he disclosed himself in April — has shown incremental improvement and he converted his first save since May 22 just this week. With Matt Brash now on the IL and the Seattle bullpen thinned out, Muñoz's hold on the role is secured partly by default. Hold him if you rostered him; do not overpay to acquire him right now.
Zach Maxwell
Maxwell earned his first career save June 10 after Antone coughed one up in the 10th. The Reds committee remains chaotic — Pagan (Grade 2 hamstring) is still not throwing and his MRI is pending. Maxwell, Antone, Pierce Johnson, and Brock Burke are all collecting high-leverage work. Maxwell's nine-pitch, three-up-three-down save gives him short-term momentum, but nothing in Cincinnati is stable. Best current bet for saves in the next 1-2 weeks; treat as a streaming add only.
Alex Lange
Four consecutive saves without allowing a run since taking the job from Erceg (MLB-leading 6 blown saves). Carlos Estevez (left foot contusion) is still weeks away from returning. Lange has closing pedigree — 26 saves with Detroit in 2023 — and has handled the role cleanly. At around 18% owned, the ownership gap is enormous for a pitcher getting consistent save opportunities. Priority add in leagues with two closer spots.
Yoendrys Gomez
The Twins hit 10 or more unique pitchers with a save on the season, breaking the team record before the halfway point of June. Gomez has been the most consistent arm (four saves, 16:4 K:BB, one earned run in 12⅔ innings) and manager Derek Shelton's preferred option — but Cole Sands and Trevor Megill keep getting mixed in. Best avoided in standard leagues unless you have exhausted every other option.
Tejay Antone
Emilio Pagan (Grade 2 hamstring, targeting MRI on June 13) is at least 2–3 weeks away. Antone has earned the most save chances in the interim and has the most trust from the dugout. Pierce Johnson and Brock Burke mix in too, but Antone is the best bet to collect saves for the next 2–3 weeks. Add him if available.
Hogan Harris
Six different A's have recorded saves this season — Harris leads with 5. There's no emerging hierarchy and no sign of one forming. Best avoided in standard leagues; dart throw only in deeper formats with 2+ closer slots.
Josh Hader
Back from a brief IL stint and earned Houston's last save. The Astros were vague about the injury that shelved him, which warrants a close eye. He appears to have reclaimed the role but a second IL trip would open a hot committee. Buy back if you dropped him, but monitor the injury situation.
Alex Lange
Lucas Erceg has completely unraveled — 6 blown saves, 6.33 ERA, 1.922 WHIP, velocity down 1.5 mph. Manager Matt Quatraro moved to a matchup-based ninth-inning approach, but Lange went 2-for-2 on back-to-back save chances June 4-5 and is the de facto closer. Best bet for KC saves until further notice. Add in 12+ team leagues.
Kyle Finnegan
Kenley Jansen is on the IL (groin, no timetable), Will Vest has been a disaster as interim closer (7.41 ERA, 0-for-3 save conversions), and Finnegan has the best profile to stabilize the role long-term. It is a genuinely messy situation. Too volatile for standard leagues; monitor daily in 15-team formats only.
Tanner Scott
Edwin Diaz had surgery and is targeting a post-All-Star break return, leaving Tanner Scott and Alex Vesia splitting ninth-inning work for the Mets. Scott has the superior track record and is the safer of the two to roster. The window is 4-6 weeks before Diaz returns — viable in 15-team leagues, borderline in standard.
David Bednar
Still getting ninth-inning work but posting a 4.50 ERA and 1.58 WHIP on a deadline-shopping Pirates team. The role has not changed yet, but Pittsburgh is actively seeking bullpen reinforcements. A deadline acquisition or continued struggles could cost him the job before August. Sell if you can get fair value.
Alex Lange
Lange is the clear emerging frontrunner for KC saves after Lucas Erceg's role completely unraveled (6.33 ERA, 1.922 WHIP, velocity down 1.5 mph). Lange has been scoreless in 10 of his last 11 appearances with back-to-back saves on June 4-5. Rosterable in 12+ team leagues — best bet for ninth-inning work in Kansas City right now, though Erceg technically still holds the title.
Kyle Finnegan
Kenley Jansen (groin, no timetable) remains on the IL and Will Vest has been catastrophically bad as interim closer (7.41 ERA, 0-for-3 save conversions). Finnegan is the most likely candidate to stabilize the role long-term. Monitor daily in 15-team leagues; too volatile for standard formats right now.
David Bednar
Still getting ninth-inning work but posting a 4.50 ERA and 1.58 WHIP for a team openly seeking bullpen reinforcements ahead of the deadline. Hasn't lost the role yet, but the risk-adjusted picture is deteriorating. SELL if you can get fair value — a deadline trade or continued struggles could end this quickly.
Riley O'Brien
Holds 13 saves and the role, but 4 blown saves on a playoff-contending Cardinals team is tightening his leash noticeably. St. Louis won't accept much more. Hold cautiously and move him if a quality offer arrives — the Cardinals will find an alternative before the deadline if he keeps blowing games.
Brad Lord
Earned his first career save on June 7 in his 68th career appearance. Washington's closer situation has been murky all year and Lord is the name to watch now if he strings together clean outings. Low-ownership speculative add in 15-team leagues only.
Alex Lange
Back-to-back saves on June 4 and June 5 have Lange as the clear frontrunner in Kansas City after Erceg was pulled from the role. Lange has been scoreless in 10 of his last 11 appearances and the committee appears to be tilting his way. Rosterable in 12+ team leagues as the best bet for KC saves.
Drew Anderson / Kyle Finnegan
Kenley Jansen (pelvic inflammation, IL-15 since May 28) left Detroit without a designated closer, and AJ Hinch has been distributing ninth-inning work between Anderson and Finnegan — both have recorded saves. No clear frontrunner has emerged. Monitor daily to catch whoever is running hot; this is a watch-daily situation, not a streaming add.
Sam Moll
The Reds' four-man committee (Santillan, Moll, Johnson, Burke) remains genuinely murky with Emilio Pagan still sidelined. Moll recorded the most recent save and has the best metrics of the group. A 15-team-only add — too unpredictable for 12-team leagues or smaller.
Alex Lange
Back-to-back saves on June 4 and June 5 make Lange the clearest frontrunner in the KC committee following Lucas Erceg's demotion (six blown saves in 2026). Lange has been scoreless in 10 of his last 11 appearances. Add immediately — he is the best bet for saves in Kansas City and costs nothing in FAAB right now.
Yoendrys Gomez
Four saves and five holds this season; locked down the White Sox on Tuesday for his latest save as Minnesota continues to mix and match at the back end. The Twins haven't named a closer, but Gomez has the best case among the candidates. Rosterable in 12+ team leagues as the frontrunner.
Sam Moll
Tony Santillan is struggling as Cincinnati's nominal closer, and Moll has stepped up to earn the Reds' most recent save. As many as five different Reds relievers could record saves on any given night. Moll is the best of the group right now — a low-percentage add in 15-team leagues only; the situation is too murky for 12-team leagues or fewer.
Lucas Erceg
Officially dethroned. After his sixth blown save (third consecutive), KC manager Matt Quatraro declared a committee. Erceg's 2026 line: 11 saves, 6 BS, 6.33 ERA, 1.92 WHIP. Drop in all formats. Alex Lange is the most likely next save-getter in Kansas City; add him if he's available.
Kyle Finnegan
Holding the closer role while Kenley Jansen rehabs pelvic inflammation — Jansen is targeting a return on the Tigers' June 19 homestand. Finnegan is a short-term streaming option only; drop him the moment Jansen is activated.
Abner Uribe
Still the nominal closer with a functional role, but a 4.03 ERA and Trevor Megill piling up saves when he struggles have made the situation tenuous. The Brewers' top-3 bullpen (3.20 ERA) functions well as a unit — Uribe just hasn't seized the job. Rosterable, but hold Megill as the handcuff.
Lucas Erceg
Three straight blown saves, six on the year — MLB's most. His ERA is 5.06 with a 1.69 WHIP and he's only converted 1 of his last 5 save chances since May 15. Carlos Estevez (foot) is expected to begin a rehab assignment soon. Drop in most formats; the job is not secure.
Abner Uribe
Has just one of Milwaukee's last seven saves, with Trevor Megill (4) and Chad Patrick (2) stealing the rest. Uribe's ERA has risen to 3.80 and his K rate has dropped from 30% to 25.8%. Do not trust anyone in this situation in high-stakes decisions.
Detroit 9th Inning
The most broken bullpen situation in baseball: Kenley Jansen is on the IL with pelvic inflammation, and Kyle Finnegan — the nominal next man up — has his own right groin tightness. Every credible arm in the 9th is either hurt or overworked. Avoid the entire situation.
Bryan Abreu
Held the closer role through Hader's 60-day absence, but Josh Hader was reinstated Tuesday and immediately reclaimed saves. Abreu remains a high-leverage setup arm with holds value, but his save opportunities are gone for the foreseeable future.
Lucas Erceg
Three straight blown saves, ERA 6.33, five blown saves total on the season. Kansas City is publicly backing him, but Daniel Lynch (1.84 ERA, 0.61 WHIP) is the logical replacement and the best buy-low target in any two-closer format. Sell Erceg's saves value now while his job title is still 'closer.'
Graham Ashcraft
No true closer in Cincinnati with Emilio Pagan (Grade 2 hamstring) out 4-8 weeks. Ashcraft has received the most save chances from Terry Francona and has the best underlying stuff, but has blown at least one opportunity. Santillan, Johnson, and Burke are all in the mix. Stream save opps here rather than committing a roster spot to any one pitcher.
Yoendrys Gomez
Minnesota is a full wheel-of-fortune situation: four pitchers have earned saves over the past week, with Gomez leading the team with three. There is no reliable closer here — avoid in standard formats, but if you're chasing holds-plus-saves in a deep league, at least one Twins reliever will be useful most nights.
Andrés Muñoz
4 blown saves, 4.98 ERA, 1.34 WHIP across 21.2 IP. Both his four-seamer (.477 wOBA against) and sinker (.538 wOBA against) are getting punished. Matt Brash and Jose Ferrer are waiting with closing experience. The Mariners haven't intervened yet, but this situation is deteriorating quickly.
Lucas Erceg
5 blown saves, 5.06 ERA, 1.69 WHIP — his peripherals are catastrophic. Preseason closer Carlos Estévez has been cleared for a rehab assignment. Once Estévez returns, Erceg's role is in immediate jeopardy. Sell high on any remaining saves value right now.
Rico Garcia / Anthony Nunez
Ryan Helsley landed on the IL with elbow issues, leaving Garcia and Nunez sharing the ninth inning. Garcia (99th percentile xERA) handles the heart of the order; Nunez (31% K-rate, elite chase metrics) closes on other nights. Both have saves; both are rosterable in two-closer formats.
Jacob Latz
0.83 ERA in 21.2 IP, 6 saves, and manager Skip Schumaker said 'it'd be tough not to give it to Latz.' Still no official closer designation — Junis has 3 saves and has been used ahead of Latz in recent games. Latz is the priority add; Junis has standalone value in two-closer leagues.
Kyle Finnegan
De facto closer since Jansen's IL placement on May 28. Four blown saves in 2026 is a troubling pattern despite a 2.03 ERA in 26 appearances. Still the most likely save source in Detroit; Will Vest is the primary alternative if the Tigers intervene. Stream in 10-team leagues, but keep a hand on the wire.
Twins Bullpen (Committee)
A team-record 10+ different pitchers have recorded saves this season — the most of any MLB team by a wide margin. Cole Sands, Taylor Rogers, Andrew Morris, and Justin Topa all see ninth-inning work. Manager Derek Shelton has shown no inclination to name a closer. Avoid for saves except in the very deepest formats.
Josh Hader
Expected to be activated during the first week of June after completing a dominant rehab (1.29 ERA, 11 K in 7 IP across seven appearances). Bryan King and Bryan Abreu have been splitting save chances in his absence. The moment Hader is activated he reclaims the role — if he's available in your league, add him now before he returns.
Lucas Erceg
Five blown saves and a 5.06 ERA; his closer grade dropped from 79 to 67 this week (Athlon Sports). The only reason Erceg still has the job is Carlos Estevez's shoulder injury, which will keep him out at least another month. Viable only in very deep leagues — the Royals are going nowhere and the ninth-inning situation is genuinely unstable.
Kyle Finnegan
De facto closer since Jansen's May 28 IL-15 placement. Has prior saves but now carries four blown saves in 2026. Still the most likely next-man-up; Will Vest is the speculative alternative if the Tigers intervene after another failure.
Tanner Scott
Serving as de facto closer since Edwin Díaz's elbow surgery sidelined him for the first half. Manager Roberts has given him the majority of save chances; Alex Vesia also sees ninth-inning work. Treat as closer-primary-with-committee-element. 1.25 ERA makes him worth rostering in any format.
Clayton Beeter
Returned from a right forearm IL stint on May 21 and earned a four-out save against the Padres Friday — his third save of 2026 and the clearest manager trust signal yet. Gus Varland (4 SV) still leads the team, but Beeter has the best stuff. Add in 14+ team leagues.
Riley O'Brien
Has 12 of 15 save chances converted with a 2.70 ERA and a dominant 23:2 K:BB in 2026. Three blown saves keep this in watch territory rather than locked. Roster confidently in 10-team leagues; monitor in shallower formats with JoJo Romero as the backup plan.
Kyle Finnegan
Elevated to primary save opps after Jansen's May 28 IL-15 placement. Finnegan has prior saves in 2026 and is the most likely next-man-up. Tigers have not officially named a closer — Drew Anderson is the speculative alternative. Add immediately in all formats.
Tanner Scott
De facto closer since Edwin Díaz's elbow surgery (out until at least the second half). Dave Roberts stated Scott gets the majority of save chances. 1.25 ERA, 25 K in 21.2 IP in 2026. Alex Vesia also sees ninth-inning work — treat this as primary-with-committee-element, not fully locked.
Jack Perkins
Four different relievers have recorded Oakland's 11 saves since Mason Miller was traded at last year's deadline. Perkins has 3 of the last 4 saves and is the A's best reliever (only one with a K% above 30%), but manager Mark Kotsay shows no commitment to a single closer. Hogan Harris and Mark Leiter also factor in.
Richard Lovelady
The Nationals split ninth-inning duties between Lovelady (1.76 ERA, 4 saves) and Gus Varland. First-year manager Blake Butera has shown no inclination to name a formal closer — both are viable streaming targets but neither is a safe hold in standard formats.
Riley O'Brien
Has 12 of 15 save chances converted with a 2.70 ERA, 0.95 WHIP, and 23:2 K:BB in 2026 — the role is functionally his. Three blown saves and ongoing competition from JoJo Romero and Ryne Stanek keep this in watch territory. Roster confidently in 10-team leagues; monitor in shallower formats.
Kyle Finnegan
Elevated to primary save opps after Jansen's May 28 IL-15 placement (pelvic inflammation). Finnegan has prior closes in 2026 during Jansen's first absence. Drew Anderson is the secondary option. Add immediately in all formats — the job is his until Jansen returns.
Trevor Megill
Pat Murphy has never named a formal closer. Megill leads with 6 saves but Abner Uribe and Angel Zerpa both see ninth-inning work. The committee has been functional — Megill is the streaming target of the three, but roster him knowing the role can shift any night.
Grant Taylor
Named closer Seranthony Dominguez is badly underperforming (4.82 ERA, 5 HR in 18.2 IP). Taylor (1.78 ERA, 38 K in 25.1 IP) has earned saves and is forcing the conversation. At 4.4% ownership, he's the most overlooked closer add of the week.
Tanner Scott
Scott has posted a 0.67 ERA with three May saves in 20 appearances while filling Edwin Díaz's role (out with elbow surgery until at least the second half). No official closer title, but he's getting the ninth-inning calls. Monitor when Díaz's return timeline hardens.
Tanner Scott
Edwin Díaz is out with elbow surgery until at least the second half. Scott has posted a 0.67 ERA with three May saves in 20 appearances and is getting the ninth-inning calls. The Dodgers haven't named him closer officially, but he's getting the opportunities. Monitor when Díaz's return timeline hardens — Scott's value depends on Díaz remaining sidelined.
Will Vest / Kyle Finnegan
Three blown saves in five games from a committee that has shown zero intention of clarifying roles. Vest (grand slam to Grissom), Finnegan, and others are all in the mix. Both are streaming-only in the current environment. Skubal's IL stint further destabilizes a bullpen that needed steadiness.
Bryan Baker
Baker has 14 saves and a clean ERA as Tampa's incumbent closer — but the Rays just signed Craig Kimbrel to a MLB deal off the Mets' DFA list. Kimbrel hasn't been given the role yet and Baker remains the man, but any dip in performance could accelerate the transition. Monitor Rays usage for the next 7-10 days.
Daniel Palencia
Palencia is sharp and holds the Cubs' closer job — the problem is Chicago hasn't had a lead to protect during a 10-game losing streak. His last save was May 14. He's not losing the role; the Cubs are just not giving him the ball in the ninth. Hold if you have roster space; drop only if you're desperate.
Caleb Kilian
Ryan Walker demoted after 7 ER in 4 appearances; Erik Miller on IL (back). Kilian has 2 saves and a 1.40 ERA but a 12.5% walk rate. Monitor Miller's return — he likely reclaims the role when healthy.
Tony Santillan
Three blown saves and 6 HR allowed in his last 23 batters faced since May 5. Graham Ashcraft and Pierce Johnson are absorbing chances. Manager Bell says he wants one closer but hasn't committed — buy the matchup, not the role.
Lucas Erceg
Holding the job with 10 saves while Carlos Estevez (shoulder) is out at least another month. Erceg's K-BB rate raises durability concerns — he could lose the role if he struggles before Estevez returns.
Gregory Soto
Has emerged as Pittsburgh's clear closer (5 May saves, 2.22 ERA) after a committee arrangement early in the year. Worth monitoring — any late-game usage change would signal the committee returning.
Cade Smith
MLB-leading 18 saves with 37 K vs. 5 BB across 25.2 IP. The most consistent closer in baseball — the 1.05 WHIP is genuine. Top-5 RP rest of season.
Tanner Scott
10-game scoreless streak with elite peripherals (0.48 WHIP, 38.9% K-BB%). The Dodgers' 9th is unquestionably his. Top-10 RP rest of season.
Gregory Soto
Scoreless in 7 of his last 9 May games with quality command metrics. The Pirates' save volume is limited but Soto's grip on the role is strong. Top-25 RP rest of season.
Kenley Jansen
4 blown saves and a career-high 13.6% walk rate. Center-cut pitches are getting crushed (20% HR rate). The Tigers are 1.5 games out of first — the patience may be wearing thin. Will Vest is the alternative. Fade in standard formats.
Twins Committee
11 different pitchers with at least one save this season (Arizona's 2025 record is 17). Travis Adams just got his first career save. There's no closer in Minnesota. Avoid in standard formats unless you can stomach total volatility.
Paul Sewald
12 saves, 0.72 WHIP in May, 5-for-6 conversion rate. The 35-year-old's career revival is real and the D-backs are winning enough close games. Top-12 RP rest of season.
Jhoan Duran
9 saves, 29.4% K-BB%, scoreless in 7 of his last 8 outings since returning from the IL. Locked in the Phillies' 9th. Top-12 RP rest of season.
Kirby Yates
Picked up his first save since July 2025 — the 99th of his career. The 4.26 ERA masks a 2.80 SIERA, but contact-quality concerns persist. The Angels are winning more games (Soriano, Detmers leading the way), so save chances should pile up. Speculative add in deeper formats.
Tony Santillan
3 blown saves and 6 HRs allowed in his last 23 batters since May 5. The Reds' bullpen is full chaos — Pierce Johnson and Graham Ashcraft are both ahead of Santillan in the leverage hierarchy. Fade in standard formats.
Riley O'Brien
Has allowed runs in 4 of his last 9 outings — the dominant April form has slipped. Still the Cardinals' primary save option but the leash is shortening. Hold for now; monitor the next 3-4 appearances closely.
Camilo Doval
Reclaimed the closer role after Ryan Walker was optioned to Triple-A on May 10. The Giants haven't committed publicly to a defined ninth-inning hierarchy, but Doval is the de facto guy right now. Add with confidence, but keep an eye on Walker's Triple-A performance — if he's recalled, this race reopens.
Rico Garcia
Sharing save opportunities in Baltimore with Andrew Kittredge and Yennier Cano while Ryan Helsley (right elbow inflammation) remains on the IL since May 1. MRI showed no structural damage for Helsley, but no return date has been set. Garcia has the slight edge in the committee, but this is unpredictable save volume — treat it as a streaming option, not a closer to own.
Bryan Abreu
Scoreless in 6 straight, but his 7.63 ERA on the year and 2.09 WHIP tell you the hot stretch isn't the norm. Hader (5 more rehab outings needed) is coming back by early June — Abreu's role has an expiration date. Stream saves while you can, but don't pay closer value in a trade.
Jeff Hoffman
Recorded his 4th save Friday but it was his first since April 20. A full month without a save opportunity — with no injury explanation — is a red flag. Ryan Zeferjahn stepped into the closer role after Jordan Romano's DFA and could still challenge. Blue Jays' save situation is murkier than it looks.
Bryan Baker
Leading Tampa Bay's revolving ninth inning with 3 saves in May, but Ian Seymour has also earned a save. The Rays don't have a defined hierarchy and haven't for weeks. Speculate on Baker as the slight favorite, but don't count on consistent volume.
Cade Smith
MLB-leading 16 saves across 23 appearances. The most reliable closer in baseball this year — no cracks in the role. Top-5 RP rest of season.
Aroldis Chapman
12 saves and a 14-game scoreless streak since April 7 (10-for-10 on chances in that span). The early-May velocity concern has faded — he's been dominant. Top-10 RP rest of season.
Paul Sewald
11 saves, 4-for-5 on opportunities this month. The career revival continues and the D-backs are winning enough close games to keep the volume flowing. Top-15 RP rest of season.
Kirby Yates
Blew a save Thursday and the velocity charts are flashing red — his fastball is down notably from his career norm. The Angels' manager still expresses trust, but the metrics warrant real caution. Fade in standard formats; the ninth-inning role is genuinely up for grabs.
Twins Committee
Yoendrys Gómez, Luis García, and Andrew Morris are all in the mix — Morris just notched his first career save. No clear hierarchy. Avoid in standard formats; speculate on García as the slight leverage favorite if forced to choose.
Cade Smith
15 saves (MLB lead); 9-of-10 scoreless over his last 10 outings. The Guardians' bullpen has fully settled around him. Top-5 RP rest of season.
Bryan Baker
13 saves with 1.03 WHIP through 20.1 IP. Tampa's bullpen has been steady — Baker is the unquestioned 9th-inning arm. Top-10 RP rest of season.
Devin Williams
10-game scoreless streak now. 37%+ K-BB rate and 0.34 WHIP over the stretch. Mets' offense produces close games regularly. Top-7 RP rest of season.
Andrés Muñoz
2nd blown save this week — Closer Monkey flags him as overworked. The Mariners may rest him for a game or two; Jose A. Ferrer is the next-up. Hold but monitor the next 2 outings; if he settles, the role is fine.
Riley O'Brien
4th blown save of the year. Closer Monkey: 'trending toward second half.' Hold for now — the Cardinals haven't named an alternative — but the slider whiff rate is down and George Soriano is the speculative next-up if O'Brien continues to slip.
Aroldis Chapman
11 saves with 13 straight scoreless outings. 0.87 WHIP, 19 K vs. 6 BB across 12.2 IP. The Red Sox have him locked through at least the All-Star break. Top-8 RP rest of season.
Jhoan Duran
8 saves; 3 straight conversions with multi-K outings each time. The Phillies' offense produces enough close wins to keep his volume elite. Top-10 RP rest of season.
David Bednar
Three multi-run outings in a row, 1.62 WHIP, fastball velocity down 1.3 mph from 2025. Closer Monkey is increasingly concerned. Hold for now but Luke Weaver / Whitlock are worth preemptive deep-league claims.
Antonio Senzatela
Now the leading vote-getter in Colorado's bullpen-by-committee. Vodnik is a full fade per Closer Monkey. Juan Mejia and Jaden Hill are alternate sources. Deep-league speculative add only.
Twins Committee
First team in MLB this year with 8+ different pitchers earning a save. Luis García, Eric Orze, and Taylor Rogers are the three with most usage. The volume is real but the unpredictability makes them all deep-league fliers.
Bryan Baker
12th save with a 1.08 WHIP, 23 K vs. 8 BB over the year. The Rays' bullpen has stabilized around him. Top-10 RP rest of season.
Lucas Erceg
11 saves; 6-of-7 conversions since April 21. With Bubic on IL and the Royals leaning into their bullpen for tight games, Erceg's volume should climb. Top-12 RP rest of season.
Devin Williams
9-game scoreless streak with 4 straight save conversions and a 0.346 WHIP. The Mets' offense is producing nightly. Top-7 RP rest of season.
David Bednar
Second blown save Monday — gave up the game-tying HR to Tyrone Taylor. Fastball velocity is 95.8 mph (down from 97.1 last year). Hold for now but Luke Weaver / Garrett Whitlock-style backups are worth speculating on if you have an RP slot to burn.
Seranthony Domínguez
Third blown save and the third multi-run outing in a row in his new CWS role. The role is fragile — Brandon Eisert and Jordan Leasure are the next-up options if the White Sox decide to make a change. Hold but monitor.
Devin Williams
6 saves, scoreless in 8 consecutive outings. 0.261 WHIP and 37.5% K-BB% over his last 7.2 IP. Locked in the Mets' 9th inning. Top-7 RP rest of season — claim anywhere he's still floating.
Cade Smith
14 saves, 11 consecutive conversions. 31 K vs. 5 BB across 21.2 IP. Most consistent closer in MLB. Top-7 RP rest of season.
Aroldis Chapman
10 saves still locked, but Closer Monkey flagged the velocity drop (below 98 mph for the season — down from his 100 mph career average). 46.9% hard-hit rate. Garrett Whitlock is the next-up option if Chapman slips. Hold but monitor.
Antonio Senzatela
Just secured his first traditional save Sunday in the ninth. Ranks 5th in WPA among qualified relievers and manager hasn't named a defined closer with Herget on IL. Deployment is fluid — high-leverage specialist as much as ninth-inning lock. Deep-league add for saves chasers.
Rays Committee
Bryan Baker and others failing to close decisively. Tampa Bay's bullpen hierarchy is unstable. Avoid in standard formats; Cole Sulser is the vulture pick if you must speculate.
Mason Miller
MLB-leading 14 saves, 0.63 SIERA, 55.7% K-rate. The most dominant closer in baseball. Hierarchy is Miller / Adam / Estrada — Miller is untouchable. Top-5 RP rest of season.
Kenley Jansen
Scoreless in 4 straight, multi-K outings in 3 consecutive. Tigers offense is producing close wins. Top-15 RP rest of season.
Raisel Iglesias
Scoreless since August 30, 2025 — 26.1 IP and counting. 26 consecutive saves. Top-5 RP rest of season; the most consistent closer in the league.
Gregory Soto
2nd blown save this week; Don Kelly called him out for 'trying to be too fine.' 50% strike rate on 30 pitches Friday. Drop in standard formats — Bidois is the rising alternative.
David Bednar
Runs allowed in 5 of 8 recent appearances. .364 BABIP masks ugly underlying metrics. Drop in standard formats; the Yankees may turn to a committee setup soon.
Tanner Scott
0.574 WHIP with 14 K vs. 2 BB across 15.2 IP since April 4. Scott is now the unquestioned Dodgers closer even when Edwin Díaz returns. Top-8 RP rest of season.
Riley O'Brien
13 saves, 5-of-6 conversions in May. The Cardinals are winning enough close games to drive volume. Top-15 RP rest of season — claim if somehow on your wire.
Jhoan Duran
7 saves; his recent post-IL outing showed full health. Phillies offense is firing (Schwarber, Harper) so closer chances will continue piling up. Top-12 RP rest of season.
Pirates Committee
Soto and Santana both blew leads in Friday's extra-inning loss. Pittsburgh's bullpen is now a true chaos committee; neither is reliable for saves chasers. Avoid in standard formats.
Jack Perkins
2nd blown save in last 4 outings; the A's may shift to Hogan Harris or Luis Medina shortly. Drop in standard formats; monitor next 5-7 days for committee resolution.
Raisel Iglesias
26 consecutive save conversions since July 28, 2025. 25.1-inning scoreless streak. The most dominant closer in baseball right now — top-5 RP rest of season. Claim if somehow on your wire.
Cade Smith
13 saves, 10-of-11 conversion rate over his last 14 appearances. Cleveland is winning close games and Smith is locked. Top-8 RP rest of season.
Mason Miller
13 saves with elite K production. The Padres' bullpen has been deep and Miller is the unquestioned ninth-inning arm. Top-10 RP rest of season.
Paul Sewald
Just suffered an ugly blown save. Still has the role for now (9 saves on the year) but Closer Monkey is monitoring the next few outings closely. Hold — don't drop — but back-up alternatives in deeper leagues might be Justin Martinez.
Tony Santillan
HRs in four consecutive appearances; velocity 2 mph below last year. The Reds' bullpen meltdown continues. Graham Ashcraft is leveraged ahead of him for saves. Fade in standard formats.
Cade Smith
13 saves, sub-1.50 ERA, 33.3% whiff rate. The most reliable closer in baseball this year. Top-5 RP rest of season — claim if somehow on your wire.
Mason Miller
13 saves (tied for MLB lead). San Diego picked him up over the winter and he's been everything advertised — elite velocity plus a Padres bullpen that gets him into save chances. Top-8 RP rest of season.
Raisel Iglesias
7 saves, scoreless streak since season start, 0.60 WHIP, 34.2% K-BB rate. The cleanest 9th-inning arm in the NL East. Top-10 RP rest of season.
Paul Sewald
Blew his first save of the year Wednesday. Manager A.J. Hinch says he keeps the role, but the leash is tightened. Hold but monitor the next 2-3 chances closely.
Rays Committee
Baker/Seymour/Kelly all getting high-leverage looks. Pete Fairbanks just activated from IL — could reclaim the closer role outright in the next week. Hold Fairbanks; Baker is a fade unless Cash names him outright.
Bryan Baker
11 saves and a 9-game scoreless streak. Tampa's bullpen is one of the league's best and Baker is the unquestioned ninth-inning arm. Top-8 RP rest of season — claim if somehow on your wire.
Paul Sewald
9 saves with a 0.68 WHIP. The career revival is real and the D-backs are winning enough close games to drive volume. Top-12 RP rest of season.
Andrés Muñoz
8 saves but a 5.63 ERA — the surface ERA hides good underlying stuff (78.6% strike rate in his last outing, improved pitch mix). The role is locked. Top-20 RP rest of season.
Ryan Zeferjahn
Yates is collapsing (4 ER in 2/3 IP, velocity down 2 mph). Zeferjahn is now the leverage choice for the Angels — first up for saves when chances come. Deep-league add but the Angels don't win many close ones.
Giants Committee
Peguero and Kilian splitting the 9th. Manager Bob Melvin reportedly 'may not name a closer this season.' Avoid in standard formats — the volume isn't worth the unpredictability. Watch Joel Peguero as the leverage favorite if forced to pick one.
Pete Fairbanks
Activated Tuesday and reclaims the closer role per Marlins manager. Faucher / Cabrera / Bender committee converted only 60% of save chances in his absence. Fairbanks was at 1.45 ERA pre-injury with 13 K / 1 BB. Top-15 RP rest of season — claim before tonight's lineup card.
Bryan Abreu
Closer Monkey's vulture-save priority. With Josh Hader still 12 days from return (May 24 estimate), Abreu has the high-leverage 9th locked. He earned his 4th save Sunday; if Hader is delayed at all, Abreu becomes a top-25 RP. Speculative add in 14+ team leagues.
Mason Miller
0.84 ERA, 23 K in 16 IP. The setup-to-closer story of the year — fully locked since Robert Suarez went out. Top-5 RP rest of season; claim immediately if available.
Aroldis Chapman
Extended his scoreless streak with another clean 9th Sunday. 0.807 WHIP, 13 K vs. 2 BB over the recent stretch. Top-10 RP rest of season.
Twins + Reds + Pirates Bullpens
Three genuine committees with no clear hierarchy. Twins: Luis García got his first save Saturday, but Eric Orze / Anthony Banda still rotate; Reds: Graham Ashcraft / Pierce Johnson split; Pirates: Soto leads Santana but neither is fully locked. Avoid in standard formats — the volatility is too high.
Pete Fairbanks
Activated Tuesday and resumes the closer role per Roberts. Marlins ran a committee in his absence and only converted 60% of save chances — Fairbanks is fully secure on return. 1.45 ERA pre-injury with 13 K/1 BB. Top-15 RP rest of season.
Mason Miller
The cleanest setup-to-closer story of the year. 0.84 ERA, 23 K in 16 IP, and the role is uncontested with Robert Suarez out. Top-5 RP rest of season — at this point he's the priority RP add in any league he's somehow available.
Paul Sewald
Sewald has the D-Backs' 9th locked since the role opened. Has converted 8 of 9 save chances. Top-15 RP rest of season — claim in any deep league still rostering him below 50%.
Tanner Scott
Díaz transferred to 60-day IL Sunday — Scott is the Dodgers' primary closer through at least mid-July. Alex Vesia still gets the occasional high-leverage look. The role is secure; just temper save-count expectations because LA's offense often blows games open.
Reds + Twins + A's Bullpens
Three genuine committees with no clear hierarchy. Twins used 6 different relievers for 7 saves this season (Luis García got his first Saturday); A's split between Perkins / Harris / Kuhnel; Reds' Ashcraft/Johnson committee is unstable. Fade all 3 bullpens in standard formats.
Aroldis Chapman
Extended his scoreless streak to 9 games with his 8th save. 0.807 WHIP, 13 K vs. 2 BB across recent outings. The Red Sox have him locked through at least the All-Star break. Top-10 RP rest of season.
Cade Smith
Notched his 11th save Saturday, has been the most reliable closer in baseball this year. Sub-1.50 ERA. Top-7 RP rest of season — claim immediately if somehow on your wire.
Louis Varland
5 saves, has converted 5-of-6 since late April. Toronto's offense keeps games close enough that the volume is real. Top-15 RP rest of season.
Kenley Jansen
Still nominally the closer but Kyle Finnegan blew Saturday's save and the Tigers' bullpen ranks bottom-5 in WPA over 14 days. Hold Jansen but the situation is fragile — Finnegan could take saves on Jansen's off-nights.
Reds + Rockies Bullpens
Tony Santillan (CIN) has allowed 5 HRs of his 15 hits this season — Graham Ashcraft is leveraged ahead of him. Jimmy Herget (COL) blew Friday's save; Vodnik and Mejia are preferred. Both bullpens are full crisis — fade in standard formats.
Cade Smith
Quietly the best closer in baseball right now. 11 saves, sub-1.50 ERA, 2 K in his clean ninth Friday. The Guardians are winning enough close games that the volume is real. Top-7 RP rest of season — claim immediately if he's somehow on your wire.
Lucas Erceg
Estévez's rotator cuff strain shut him down for at least 6+ weeks (3-week no-throw, then ramp). Erceg is locked. Top-12 RP rest of season — still on the wire in 53% of leagues. Last call.
Riley O'Brien
11 saves, clean ninth Friday with a strikeout. The Cardinals' rotation is keeping games close; O'Brien's getting plenty of work. Top-15 RP rest of season.
Gregory Soto
Picked up his 3rd save Friday with a clean ninth. Splitting save chances with Dennis Santana but is now clearly the leverage choice — Soto leads in usage and has the back-to-back saves. Pirates' games are infrequent but the role is real for now. Add in deep formats.
Reds Bullpen
The full crisis. -1.87 WPA over the last 7 days, 8 meltdowns on the year, 7-game losing streak. Tony Santillan is the nominal closer but the Reds aren't winning anything close. Avoid every Reds reliever in standard formats.
Lucas Erceg
Estévez's rotator cuff strain shuts him down for 3 weeks (return mid-to-late June at earliest). Erceg is locked as the KC closer through at least mid-summer. Top-12 RP rest of season; claim in any league he's still floating.
Tony Santillan
Inherits the Reds' 9th with Pagán out 4-8 weeks. Graham Ashcraft is a co-closer threat — recently blew a save which created some uncertainty. Santillan has the experience edge (7 saves last season). Hold and monitor usage; Ashcraft is the speculative second add.
Gregory Soto
Earned his 2nd save in as many days Thursday. Splitting the 9th with Dennis Santana — Soto leads in usage but Santana still gets save chances. Pirates win games infrequently; both arms are deep-league only.
Caleb Kilian
Closer Monkey notes Kilian is part of an 'obvious closer-by-committee' with Keaton Winn and Joel Peguero. The Giants' 9th is unsettled and likely stays that way. Avoid in standard formats.
Rico Garcia
Picked up his 2nd save Thursday — 0.412 WHIP across 17 IP is genuinely elite. Andrew Kittredge is the alternative if Hyde shifts; Garcia is the priority Baltimore add for saves chasers. Top-30 RP rest of season.
Tony Santillan
Pagán's hamstring is a 4-8 week absence — Santillan inherits the Reds' 9th. He had 7 saves last year and a 27% K-rate this year. Graham Ashcraft is a co-closer threat (just earned his first career save), but Santillan is the priority add.
Lucas Erceg
Estévez's rehab setback (shoulder discomfort) means Erceg's hold on the Royals' 9th is now indefinite. He's a top-15 RP rest of season — claim in any league where he's still floating.
Caleb Kilian
Got the first MLB save Monday; the Giants' 9th-inning hierarchy is still murky behind him with Erik Miller IL'd and Ryan Walker scuffling. Hold Kilian in deep leagues; Robert Garcia or Walker could re-enter the picture.
Calvin Faucher
Fairbanks is still out and the Marlins' 9th is a committee with Faucher, Anthony Bender, and Tyler Phillips. Faucher worked the 9th in a loss Sunday but the role rotation continues. Avoid in standard.
Ryan Zeferjahn
Kirby Yates was activated from the IL Tuesday; Closer Monkey notes he'll be eased into leverage. Until then, Zeferjahn stays the lead Angels save candidate. Hold in saves-needy formats.
Caleb Kilian
Got the first MLB save Monday vs. SD — struck out Tatis Jr. and Machado. With Miller IL'd and Walker scuffling, Kilian is the lead candidate to inherit the Giants' saves. Speculative-add in 12+ team formats now.
Kenley Jansen
Returned from the groin injury but velocity was down a tick and command was erratic per Closer Monkey. Kyle Finnegan moves up the hierarchy as backup. Hold but add Finnegan as protection in saves-needy formats.
Tony Santillan
Pagán's leash is officially gone (3 blown saves, 56.8% hard-hit, 4.72 xERA). Santillan is the most likely beneficiary of a role flip. Drop Pagán in 12-team; speculate-add Santillan in deep formats.
Lucas Erceg
Closer Monkey notes Estévez and Hader scheduled for Triple-A appearances. Until they're cleared, Erceg is the locked KC closer — top-15 RP rest of next 4 weeks.
Ryan Zeferjahn
Continues to lead the LAA committee post-Suárez DFA. Kirby Yates was activated from the IL Tuesday and could re-enter the picture in the coming days. Hold Zeferjahn in saves-needy formats.
Caleb Kilian
Earned his first big-league save Monday vs. SD (1 IP, 1 ER, 2 K). With Erik Miller on the IL (back) and Ryan Walker scuffling, Kilian is the lead candidate to inherit save chances near-term. Speculative-add in saves-needy 12+ team leagues.
Rico Garcia
Closer Monkey notes Garcia continues to be deployed against elite hitters in non-9th high-leverage spots — Hyde won't save him for save situations during this Yankees series. Still the top BAL save candidate when matchups normalize.
Emilio Pagán
Justin Mason flagged Pagán's collapse as the next saves role to flip — 6.43 ERA, 3 blown saves, and the leash is gone. Tony Santillan is the most likely beneficiary in Cincinnati. Drop Pagán in 12-team formats; speculate-add Santillan in deep saves leagues.
Calvin Faucher
Closer Monkey notes Faucher worked the 9th in a loss Sunday and may get the same inning with a lead. Tyler Phillips and Anthony Bender share the committee. Hold Phillips if rostered; Faucher is a deep-league add only.
Ryan Zeferjahn
Closer Monkey says Zeferjahn is 'emerging as one of the most trusted relievers' for Kurt Suzuki post-Suárez DFA. Still a closer-by-committee with Sam Bachman, but Zeferjahn is the lead. Deep-league saves speculation.
Rico Garcia
Still the top save candidate in Baltimore with Helsley out, but the Yankees series puts him in non-9th high-leverage spots. The risk: Hyde may not save him for save situations until BAL is out of NYY. Hold and add Yennier Cano as backup.
Kenley Jansen
Still day-to-day with the groin/abdomen issue but per Tuesday's update, was available to pitch. Kyle Finnegan ascends to the next-up spot per Closer Monkey. Hold with Tommy Kahnle as protection.
Lucas Erceg
8 saves and counting — but Estevez's rehab status remains uncertain, which means the role could be tested when he's ready. For now, Erceg is the play; consider him a top-15 RP rest of the next 4-6 weeks.
Ryan Zeferjahn
Closer Monkey flagged Zeferjahn and Sam Bachman as the post-Suárez Angels save sources. Kirby Yates and Ben Joyce are on rehab paths and may take over later in May. Speculative-add Zeferjahn in deep saves leagues only.
Justin Topa
Cole Sands' IL stint shifts more of the chaos onto Topa, but the Twins' bullpen remains a closer-by-committee. Funderburk and the rest of the group rotate; no clear hierarchy. Avoid in standard.
Rico Garcia
Closer Monkey now lists Garcia as the top save candidate in Baltimore with Helsley on the IL. The risk: he's the team's best high-leverage RHP, so Hyde might use him in the 7th-8th vs. Aaron Judge instead of saving him for the 9th. Still the best speculative add of the day in saves-needy formats.
Kenley Jansen
Day-to-day with groin/abdomen issues and unavailable for at least the next game. With Vest also IL'd, Tommy Kahnle is the most likely backup save source. Hold Jansen if rostered but add Kahnle as protection.
Tyler Phillips
Still leading the Marlins' committee with Fairbanks out. Calvin Faucher and Anthony Bender remain in the mix, but Phillips has the highest-leverage usage. Hold if rostered.
Tanner Scott
Roberts continues to mix Scott with Vesia and Treinen — and continues to use Scott in losing high-leverage spots, which kills his fantasy value. Sell if you can; the talent is real but the role isn't producing.
Hunter Gaddis
Closer Monkey explicitly placed Gaddis 'on watch' after another rough outing — multiple hits and walks. Cade Smith and Erik Sabrowski remain alternative options. Hold but don't trade for him.
Yennier Cano
With Helsley on the IL and Bautista not back until September, the Orioles are in full committee. Cano is the top setup arm (especially vs. lefties); Seranthony Domínguez and Andrew Kittredge are the other save candidates. Speculate-add Cano now in 12+ team formats.
Tyler Phillips
Still leading the Marlins' committee with Fairbanks out — has 2 saves and the highest-leverage usage. Calvin Faucher and Anthony Bender remain in the mix. Hold if rostered.
Tanner Scott
Roberts is still mixing and matching with Vesia and Treinen. Closer Monkey notes Scott was deployed in losing high-leverage spots again — fantasy value remains low until Roberts commits. Sell if you can find a believer.
Will Vest
Closer Monkey flagged Vest as the next-up audition arm if Finnegan is unavailable. Tigers' bullpen depth chart now reads Perkins / Harris / Leiter Jr. behind, but Vest is the saves dark horse. Deep-league speculative add.
Victor Vodnik
2.052 WHIP and runs allowed in three of his last four outings — the leash is short. Antonio Senzatela is the alternative in a Rockies committee. Avoid in standard leagues; deep-only if you're chasing saves.
Kenley Jansen
Three blown saves in nine chances and a 1.637 WHIP for the Tigers' new closer. The Olson walk-off in Atlanta on Wednesday was on Jansen, who entered with a one-run lead and walked Albies before serving up the bomb. A.J. Hinch is publicly committed, but Kyle Finnegan picked up Friday's save and Will Vest is auditioning. Hold; don't acquire.
Tyler Phillips
Still leading the Marlins committee with Calvin Faucher and Anthony Bender behind. Got the lead share again Wednesday. With Fairbanks out 2-3 more weeks, the priority-add window from yesterday's issue still stands.
Will Vest
Closer Monkey flagged Vest as auditioning for a larger role — Kyle Finnegan picked up his first save Friday and Jansen-the-non-Tigers-version closer (their Kenley Jansen) keeps the primary role, but Vest's stuff is the sharpest in the pen. Speculative add in deep/holds leagues.
Hunter Gaddis
Cade Smith is still the priority arm in the Cleveland leverage hierarchy with Gaddis as the secondary option. No fresh updates from the ledger; the role hasn't formally moved but Gaddis isn't the answer for save chasers.
Eric Orze
Second blown save Wednesday — 3 ER, 2 BB in one inning. The Twins bullpen is a fantasy black hole right now; avoid in leagues where saves don't pay extra for risk. Watch for Brock Stewart or Cole Sands to emerge.
Tyler Phillips
Second save Tuesday — Closer Monkey now lists him as the lead arm in the Marlins committee with Calvin Faucher and Anthony Bender behind. Fairbanks could come back in 2-3 weeks, so the window is real. Add now if you didn't yesterday — saves are saves.
Tanner Scott
Roberts continues to burn Scott in non-save high-leverage spots, killing his fantasy value despite real talent. Vesia and Treinen rotate in 9th-inning roles with no clear hierarchy. Sell if you can find a believer; otherwise just stomach the volatility.
Seranthony Domínguez
Closer Monkey confirms Domínguez maintains the closer role despite a 1.417 WHIP — Grant Taylor and Jordan Hicks are the next-up arms. Bryan Hudson got Monday's save situationally, but the regular role goes through Domínguez. Hold if rostered, but don't pay closer prices.
Hunter Gaddis
No fresh update from the ledger, but Monday's blown save lingers. Cade Smith and Erik Sabrowski remain the alternative options if Cleveland formally pivots. Gaddis still gets the next chance — but the rope is short.
Dennis Santana
Walk rate has doubled (13.8% vs. 6.3%), the xERA is 4.63, and he's already taken two losses. Pittsburgh has publicly backed him, but the next blown save likely flips the role. Avoid in deep leagues.
Tyler Phillips
With Fairbanks now officially on the IL, Phillips is the lead candidate to inherit save chances per the FanGraphs Riteup, having already recorded one. Calvin Faucher and Anthony Bender will mix in — but Phillips is the priority add until usage clarifies.
Dennis Santana
Second blown save / second loss Monday with 4 ER on 0 outs. Walk rate has doubled (13.8% vs. 6.3% in 2025) and his 4.63 xERA is alarming. Management still publicly supports him, but the leash is short. Avoid in deep leagues, monitor in others.
Tanner Scott
Still no clear hierarchy between Scott, Alex Vesia, and Blake Treinen, despite Scott's prior dominance. Roto Riteup flagged the situation as one to avoid — none of the three are reliable for saves week to week. Don't pay closer prices for any of them.
Hunter Gaddis
First loss and first blown save Monday — gave up a game-tying solo HR without recording an out. Cade Smith and Erik Sabrowski are alternative options, and the role hasn't been formally locked. Hold if rostered, but don't acquire as your only closer.
Grant Taylor
Bryan Hudson, not Taylor, got the 9th Monday and earned his first career save. Could be matchup-driven, but worth watching whether the White Sox formally pivot. Hudson is a deep-league speculative add; Taylor stays in the mix for now.
Louis Varland
3rd save Sunday with 4 K in 20 pitches. Jeff Hoffman continues to implode (3 blown saves, 7.59 ERA). Varland has clearly seized the role despite the 'committee' label. Must-add in all leagues — 49% rostered and climbing fast.
Pete Fairbanks
NEW CONCERN: Left Monday's game with numbness in his hand. Has Raynaud's Syndrome history. If he hits the IL, Calvin Faucher leads a committee with Anthony Bender and Tyler Phillips. Monitor daily.
Mason Miller
Scoreless streak ended at 34.2 IP on a controversial umpire call, but he still earned the save. Season line: 1.26 ERA, 0.56 WHIP, 28:2 K:BB. Undisputed closer. Don't overreact — top-3 reliever in fantasy.
Riley O'Brien
JoJo Romero also blew it Sunday (go-ahead pinch-hit HR). The Cardinals' 9th inning remains a total mess with O'Brien and Romero both failing in save situations. Avoid unless desperate.
Bryan Hudson
Picked up an emergency save in Monday's 8-7 win over the Angels. Seranthony Dominguez remains the primary closer, but Hudson showed he can handle the role if needed. Deep-league stash only.
Louis Varland
3rd save on Sunday. Still technically a 'committee' per the front office but he's clearly the guy — dominant peripherals and earning consecutive save chances. Must-add if not already rostered.
Tanner Scott
Gave up the go-ahead HR Friday and confidence is shaky with Díaz out. Alex Vesia lurking as the next man up. Scott still has the most saves but the leash is shortening. Hold but have Vesia stashed.
Jack Perkins
Earned save #2 Sunday behind Mason Miller (10 saves, 34.2 scoreless IP franchise record). If Miller ever misses time, Perkins is next in line. Stash only in the deepest of leagues.
Riley O'Brien
Second blown save on Saturday — surrendered 4 hits, 2 ER with a pathetic 7.7% SwStr%. JoJo Romero also lost Sunday (go-ahead pinch-hit HR). The Cardinals' 9th inning is a mess. Avoid unless desperate for saves.
Ryan Zeferjahn
Angels bullpen in full disarray after Jordan Romano was DFA'd (2.125 WHIP) and Kirby Yates' rehab is going poorly (velocity down, gave up 3-run HR in AAA). Zeferjahn leads a three-man committee with Drew Pomeranz and Sam Bachman. Avoid in shallow leagues.
Louis Varland
2nd save on 4/25 (allowed 1 run on 3 hits in the 9th). Still labeled a 'committee' by the front office but he's clearly the guy — 0.00 ERA, 19 K in 13 IP. The only knock: he gave up a run for the first time Friday. Still a must-add.
Tanner Scott
Gave up the go-ahead homer to Swanson on Friday after Treinen blew the save in the 8th. The Dodgers' closer situation is a mess with Díaz out. Scott still has the most saves but confidence is shaky. Vesia lurking.
Jacob Latz
Per today's Closer Monkey Ledger, Latz has entered the Rangers' save share. He carries a 1.32 ERA in 13.2 IP. Worth monitoring in deeper leagues where saves are scarce.
Corbin Martin
Earned his 1st career save Friday (1-2-3 9th vs. Dodgers), but Phil Maton is expected to be activated within two days per MLBTR. Martin's window may be short — only add if you need saves this week.
Robert Suarez
3rd save as Iglesias' replacement. Has a 0.93 ERA in 10 appearances. The Braves signed him for $45M as a setup man but he led the NL with 40 saves for the Padres last year. He can handle the role — add now, ride until Iglesias returns in early May.
Louis Varland
Hoffman removed after 7.59 ERA and 3 BS. Varland has a 0.00 ERA with 19 K in 13 IP — he is the frontrunner despite the 'committee' label. Add immediately.
Tanner Scott
Díaz out ~3 months (elbow surgery). Scott getting bulk of chances; Vesia has 2 saves and a 0.00 ERA in 8.2 IP as the secondary option.
Enyel De Los Santos
Hader on 60-day IL (bicep). Abreu imploding (14.73 ERA, velo down 2 mph). De Los Santos has converted the last two chances.
Robert Suarez
Raisel Iglesias on 15-day IL (shoulder inflammation). Suarez is the easy pivot; Iglesias eligible to return early May.
Ben Brown
Palencia (oblique) was closer, Thielbar filled in but now on IL too (hamstring). Five relievers on IL. Brown (2.37 ERA, 26% K rate) is next man up by default.
Tanner Scott
Frontrunner for Díaz's closer role. Elite LHP reliever. Add immediately — biggest saves opportunity of the month. Vesia and Treinen also in the mix.
Enyel De Los Santos
Hader on 60-day IL, Javier to 60-day IL. Houston's pitching crisis is total. De Los Santos has saves but no clear hierarchy.
Caleb Thielbar
Picked up first save of 2026. Scoreless in 3 straight with 7 K in 2.2 IP. Emerging as the Cubs' primary option.
Hunter Bigge
Workload concerns after 13-inning marathon. Englert to IL adds to bullpen strain. Fluid situation.
Caleb Thielbar
First save of 2026 — scoreless in 3 straight, 7 K in 2.2 IP. Could be emerging as the Cubs closer. Monitor for an expanded role.
Hunter Bigge
Per Closer Monkey, leverage ladder running on fumes after 13-inning game. Baker threw 31 pitches, Jax in 3 straight. Workload concerns make this a fluid situation.
Enyel De Los Santos
Hader on 60-day IL. De Los Santos has saves but Abreu showing improvement. No clear hierarchy — committee until Hader returns late May.
Jose Suarez
Picked up a 3-inning save Saturday while Iglesias rested. If Iglesias gets a lighter workload, Suarez could see more save chances as the secondary option.
Paul Sewald
MLB-leading 7 saves. 10-pitch save Saturday. Dominant.
Mason Miller
Extended scoreless streak continues. Elite K rate.
Jakob Junis
Consistent. Rangers keep winning.
Jose Suarez
First save of the season — 3 IP, 2 H, 1 K. Raisel Iglesias presumably still the primary but Suarez getting high-leverage work.
Enyel De Los Santos
Hader on 60-day IL. De Los Santos has saves but the committee continues. Bryan Abreu showing signs of life.
Paul Sewald
Perfect conversion rate. No threats.
Mason Miller
Extended scoreless streak per Closer Monkey. Dominant K rate. Jeffrey Springs now primarily starting.
Jakob Junis
Sub-1.00 WHIP. Rangers keep winning.
Bryan Baker
Picked up a save Friday per Closer Monkey. Monitor for an expanded role — the Rays bullpen has been in flux all season.
Enyel De Los Santos
Hader to 60-day IL. De Los Santos has 2 saves but Abreu had 1.1 scoreless IP this week. Committee until further notice.
Paul Sewald
Perfect conversion rate continues. No threats anywhere.
Jakob Junis
Sub-1.00 WHIP. Rangers keep winning, Junis keeps saving.
Jeffrey Springs
1.47 ERA, 0.76 WHIP. Still doing double duty as closer and spot starter. Elite.
Andrés Muñoz
Walked Machado, allowed multiple hits in a 4-run lead. Per Closer Monkey, shaky command in recent outings. Watch for committee.
Enyel De Los Santos
2nd save while Hader rehabs. Abreu had 1.1 scoreless IP — bullpen stabilizing but still no clear hierarchy.
Paul Sewald
Elite WHIP, perfect conversion. Set and forget.
Jakob Junis
Sub-1.00 WHIP, no threats. Texas wins keep coming.
Jeffrey Springs
1.47 ERA, 0.76 WHIP. Closing while making spot starts. Elite multi-cat asset.
Trevor Megill
First blown save Tuesday — 3 ER on 3 hits, 1 BB, only 1 whiff in 20 pitches. 7 ER over last 2 outings. Abner Uribe getting saves now.
Bryan Abreu
Hader still ~one month out. Abreu un-rosterable. Bryan King is the speculative add until Hader returns late April.