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 Minnesota Twins' spring training has revealed a surprising standout in the pitching department: Cory Lewis, whose unique knuckleball has caught the attention of teammates and catchers alike. This pitch is not just any ordinary knuckleball; it’s thrown at a remarkable velocity of around 85 mph, differing from the traditional floating knuckleballs that are slower and much easier to predict. Catchers have shared their experiences, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of Lewis's delivery. They recount stories of close calls on missed catches and the challenge it presents both for them and opposing hitters.

Lewis, who was named the Twins' minor league pitcher of the year in 2023, showcased his knuckleball during his Grapefruit League debut against the Detroit Tigers, where it resulted in several whiffs from batters. The pitch's erratic movement forces catchers like Jair Camargo to improvise, as the PitchCom device lacked the ability to communicate knuckleball calls, leading to creative solutions during live pitching. Whether this unique pitch will earn Lewis a spot on the major league roster remains to be seen as he is expected to begin the season at Class AAA St. Paul.

In the competitive landscape of fantasy baseball drafts for 2025, targeting mid-round closers can be pivotal. Players like Trevor Megill of the Milwaukee Brewers showcased their potential in 2024, accumulating 21 saves with an impressive ERA and WHIP. Meanwhile, Jhoan Duran of the Minnesota Twins is positioned as a top high-leverage option, expected to secure over 25 saves despite stiff competition from his bullpen mates. Ryan Walker from the San Francisco Giants emerged as a standout with a remarkable season, but uncertainty about his role remains. With Kenley Jansen joining the Los Angeles Angels, he adds veteran stability to their ninth inning. Finally, Andres Munoz offers elite closer potential for the Seattle Mariners, although his injury history warrants caution. Each of these pitchers presents distinct value in mid-round drafts, making them essential considerations for fantasy managers looking to bolster their rosters.

The Minnesota Twins enter the offseason facing significant decisions regarding free agents, arbitration-eligible players, and potential trades. Key free agents include Max Kepler and Carlos Santana, the latter having had a standout season. With a payroll commitment of approximately $126 million, the Twins must navigate limited flexibility while aiming to rebound from a disappointing end to the previous season.

They will likely decline options for players like Kyle Farmer and Manuel Margot, while arbitration-eligible players such as Willi Castro and Bailey Ober could command substantial salaries. Additionally, the Twins may explore trades for Chris Paddack and Christian Vázquez as they seek to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season.

The Minnesota Twins face a pivotal offseason as they evaluate their roster for the 2025 season. Key decisions loom regarding starting pitchers, free agents, and promising rookies. Players like Jhoan Durán and Joe Ryan are due for arbitration, while the futures of veterans like Max Kepler and Kyle Farmer hang in the balance.

With players showing mixed performances, the Twins must navigate contract options and potential trades to strengthen their lineup. The upcoming months will be crucial for the team's direction.