As fantasy baseball drafts approach, the conversation around closer selections remains contentious. While saves can be a puntable category, they are also readily available on waivers throughout the season. This analysis categorizes potential opening-day closers by average draft position, providing insight into when and how to draft these relievers.

The top tier of closers includes elite talents like Emmanuel Clase and Josh Hader, who possess not only job security but also the skill set to thrive. However, their draft positions might deter some from taking a closer over impactful hitters in earlier rounds. In contrast, the second tier features solid options like Edwin Díaz but still poses the dilemma of sacrificing potential star hitters.

As we move further down the draft board, potential closers can be found in the third tier, where pitchers like Félix Bautista and Jhoan Durán could emerge as valuable assets. The final tiers present various options, but they come with significant risk, often leaving drafters with a choice between safety and the thrill of finding a diamond in the rough. This year, the discussion on how to approach drafting closers remains as vital as ever.

The 2025 fantasy baseball season is primed for action, with teams shaking up their bullpens ahead of spring training. Notably, Emmanuel Clase is projected to lead the saves chart with 41, flanked by elite arms like Josh Hader and Raisel Iglesias, both with 36. The American League features exciting closer situations, particularly in Oakland with Mason Miller, who showcases an impressive 101 mph fastball and a staggering strikeout rate that could redefine the closer role. In Baltimore, Félix Bautista returns from injury, hoping to reclaim the top closer spot after a stellar 2023, while the Red Sox juggle a mix of veterans and upstarts vying for save opportunities.

As teams finalize their rosters, keep an eye on potential waiver wire gems. For instance, the Royals’ Carlos Estévez might reclaim closing duties, while in Detroit, Jason Foley's lower strikeout rate raises concerns about his job security. The fantasy landscape is shifting rapidly, and savvy managers will track these developments closely to optimize their rosters ahead of the draft.

The 2025 MLB season is shaping up to showcase a new wave of talent, with several players poised to earn their first All-Star selections. Among those who made a significant impact in 2024, players like Alec Bohm, Gunnar Henderson, and Steven Kwan have already set the stage, but many others are ready to join them.

This article highlights 15 players with strong potential for All-Star recognition in 2025. Some notable names include Willy Adames, who has been a consistent performer for the San Francisco Giants, and Tanner Bibee, an emerging ace for the Cleveland Guardians. Both players have shown remarkable skill and resilience over the past seasons, making them prime candidates.

Other young talents like Jackson Chourio and Yainer Diaz are also mentioned, showcasing the depth of talent across the league. Each player has demonstrated the ability to perform at a high level, and if they maintain their momentum, they could very well find themselves among the All-Stars this summer.

The Atlanta Braves are actively pursuing free-agent reliever Carlos Estévez, who recently had a standout season with the Los Angeles Angels and Philadelphia Phillies. Estévez, 32, recorded a 2.45 ERA and 50 strikeouts over 54 appearances, making him an attractive option for the Braves as they look to bolster their bullpen.

With Joe Jimenez recovering from knee surgery, Estévez could serve as a valuable right-handed option. His previous season's salary was $6.75 million, and estimates suggest his market value could reach $14 million annually over three years. This potential acquisition would also provide the Braves with a contingency plan for closer Raisel Iglesias, who will be a free agent after the next season.

The Atlanta Braves have sparked debate this offseason due to their inactivity in the free-agent market, despite ranking fourth in luxury tax payments at $276 million.

Top earners like Austin Riley and Matt Olson significantly impact the tax threshold, with Riley's salary accounting for 8.95% of it. The Braves have a mix of homegrown talent and players acquired through trades, indicating a strategic approach to roster construction.

While they haven't signed major free agents, their willingness to spend is evident, as shown by their substantial tax bill. The Braves' financial decisions reflect a balance between investing in talent and managing luxury tax implications.