Fantasy Baseball Closer Tiers: The ninth inning is dark and full of terrors — so who should you draft?

Despite my ongoing efforts, Yahoo has adamantly refused to remove either pitchers or saves from the default version of fantasy baseball. Unfortunately, it seems we are destined for another season filled with unnecessary challenges. The battle continues, but it appears that powerful corporate interests are working against me.

Saves are arguably the most dispensable category in our fantasy game, so feel free to ignore them and focus on other aspects of your team. However, saves are also readily available throughout the season, making it questionable to completely disregard the stat. You can often find saves on the waiver wire from March to September.

Personally, I don’t typically prioritize closers during drafts, but I also don’t completely ignore them. I usually avoid investing heavily in top-tier closers and aim to have no more than two potential sources of saves by the end of the draft. This strategy allows flexibility to find saves during the season.

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Today, our focus is on evaluating each major league team’s projected opening day closer based on average draft position. We will only be discussing the most probable ninth-inning options, without delving into setup relievers or closers-in-waiting.

Tier 1: Drafting anyone from this group shows a lack of courage.

• Emmanuel Clase, Cleveland Guardians (ADP 37.6)

• Devin Williams, New York Yankees (45.3)

• Josh Hader, Houston Astros (51.0)

While these closers are among the best options available, selecting them means passing on impactful hitters in the draft. Choosing a closer over a potential offensive star in the early rounds is a sign of fear and hesitation.

There are plenty of reliable sources of saves available later in the draft. Let’s explore further.

Tier 2: Drafting from this group shows some restraint, but it’s still a timid move.

• Edwin Díaz, New York Mets (55.6)

• Mason Miller, Athletics (60.0)

• Raisel Iglesias, Atlanta Braves (63.0)

• Ryan Helsley, St. Louis Cardinals (66.6)

While these closers are solid picks, passing on potential breakout hitters for them is a cautious approach. Many quality closers can still be found in later rounds.

Let’s continue to explore more options.

Tier 3: These closers can be just as valuable as those drafted earlier.

• Félix Bautista, Baltimore Orioles (78.2)

• Jhoan Durán, Minnesota Twins (86.5)

• Andres Muñoz, Seattle Mariners (87.9)

• Ryan Walker, San Francisco Giants (99.6)

• Robert Suárez, San Diego Padres (100.5)

• Tanner Scott, Los Angeles Dodgers (103.2)

Don’t panic and draft multiple closers early on. These closers have the potential to deliver top-tier performances and should be considered in the mid to late rounds.

Tier 4: Welcome to the land of uncertain closers. It’s a mixed bag.

• Alexis Díaz, Cincinnati Reds (130.1)

• Jeff Hoffman, Toronto Blue Jays (134.5)

• Trevor Megill, Milwaukee Brewers (134.8)

• Pete Fairbanks, Tampa Bay Rays (147.5)

• Ryan Pressly, Chicago Cubs (149.2)

• Kenley Jansen, Los Angeles Angels (167.6)

• David Bednar, Pittsburgh Pirates (167.9)

• Carlos Estévez, Kansas City Royals (168.3)

• Justin Martínez, Arizona Diamondbacks (178.8)

• Kyle Finnegan, Washington Nationals (183.5 since he re-signed)

• Jordan Romano, Philadelphia Phillies (183.4)

This tier offers a mix of potential closers, but proceed with caution. While the possibilities may seem exciting, not all of them will pan out. It’s a risky but intriguing territory to explore.

Embrace the uncertainty and let’s aim for fantasy glory.

Tier 5: Drafting these closers may cause initial anxiety, but it’s all part of the thrill.

• Chris Martin, Texas Rangers (193.9)

• Liam Hendriks, Boston Red Sox (208.1)

• Jason Foley, Detroit Tigers (225.9)

• Calvin Faucher, Miami Marlins (238.1)

These closers might not have a secure grip on the closing role, but the potential for unexpected success is what makes fantasy baseball intriguing. Taking a chance on these players could lead to a memorable fantasy season.

Tier 6: Proceeding with these closers is a risky move.

It’s best to avoid drafting from this tier as the outcomes are highly uncertain. While some may find success, the odds are against them. Exercise caution in considering these closers for your team.

Tier 7: Exercise caution with these obscure closers.

Avoid selecting closers from this tier, even in specialized leagues. It’s more advisable to focus on other positions or select non-closing relievers who can contribute positively to your team.

If you find yourself contemplating a White Sox bullpen member during the draft, it might be wise to take a break and let the auto-draft feature make the decision for you.