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.

Josh Hader, the Houston Astros' closer, is focusing on incorporating his changeup more this season, having previously relied primarily on his fastball and slider. His changeup usage increased significantly during his best years in 2021 and 2023, resulting in impressive ERA figures of 1.23 and 1.28, respectively. Hader noted that throwing changeups allows him to keep hitters guessing, especially right-handed batters who have had success against him in the past.

Despite allowing 12 home runs last season, all to right-handed hitters, Hader maintained a high strikeout rate and swing-and-miss percentage. His pitching coach emphasized the importance of diversifying his pitch options to prevent hitters from keying in on his fastball. Hader's commitment to simplifying his mechanics this offseason aims to enhance his execution in games and minimize inconsistencies that could tip off hitters.

Josh Hader has confirmed that he will continue using Lil Wayne's "Fireman" as his entrance song for the 2024 MLB season. The Houston Astros closer acknowledged its popularity, especially after the team created a bobblehead featuring him with a flaming baseball, given to the first 10,000 fans during a game. Hader's choice of music has evolved over the years, but he felt compelled to stick with what has become a fan favorite.

During a podcast, Hader shared insights into his free agency experience, revealing that he and his wife were inclined to remain in Texas. Initially looking at offers from the Dodgers and Yankees, it was the unexpected offer from the Astros that sealed the deal, leading to a five-year, $95 million contract.

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.

Josh Hader's 2024 season has been a rollercoaster, with home run issues plaguing his performance. After a tough April, he struggled in July and September, allowing significant runs mostly due to homers. Despite a career-high in wins and strikeouts, fantasy owners are hoping for more saves from the Astros' arm. Hader's fastball speed aligns with last year, but his heavy reliance on the sinker and slider has created vulnerabilities against right-handed hitters.

Bryan Abreu, Hader's handcuff, has shown talent with an impressive ERA and WHIP, but inconsistencies against lefties jeopardize his path to the closer role. Rostered together, Hader offers potential saves while Abreu stands as a safeguard. The combined prospects for fantasy owners look promising yet require careful monitoring.