Fantasy Baseball News

David Bednar Remains a High-End Closer Option in New York

Across 59 1/3 innings (55 games) in 2026, New York Yankees closer David Bednar has pitched to a 2.73 ERA and 1.03 WHIP with 65 strikeouts, 31 saves, and six wins. Bednar got off to a slow start, allowing 12 earned runs over 24 innings through the end of May. However, the 31-year-old has largely been lights out since the start of June. He's allowed just six earned runs over his last 35 1/3 innings pitched and has blown just three saves on the year. Bednar has struck out 27% of the batters he's faced this season while allowing just a 7.5% walk rate. The veteran right-hander is also very difficult to take deep, as he's allowed just 0.46 HR/9. As the clear ninth-inning option for the Yankees, Bednar profiles as a high-end closer option for fantasy managers.

Sep 2 · Source via

Closers New York Yankees David Bednar

Pete Fairbanks Throws Off a Mound on Tuesday

Miami Marlins right-handed reliever Pete Fairbanks (hand) got in some mound work on Tuesday, according to Christina De Nicola of MLB.com. Fairbanks is no lock to return to the Marlins' bullpen to close out the 2026 regular season, as the team is clinging to playoff hopes while back four games of the final National League wild-card spot entering play on Tuesday. The 32-year-old Fairbanks was placed on the 15-day injured list with a recurring nerve issue in his right throwing hand, and he required injections to help him move past the issue. The former ninth-rounder by the Texas Rangers in 2015 from the University of Missouri has been a headache to roster this year for saves, closing out 18 games but also sporting a bloated 6.02 ERA and a 1.31 WHIP with 57 strikeouts in 40 1/3 innings pitched. As long as Fairbanks remains out, the Marlins figure to continue rolling with a closer committee that will primarily involve Calvin Faucher and Michael Petersen. Fairbanks is not a must-roster reliever in the final month of the regular season.

Sep 1 · Source via

Edwin Diaz Approaching a Rehab Assignment

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said on Tuesday that right-handed reliever Edwin Diaz (neck) will likely throw another live bullpen session in the coming week and then head out on a minor-league rehab assignment, according to Jack Harris of The California Post. Diaz has had a disaster of a 2026 season after signing as a big free-agent addition for the Blue in the offseason to serve as their primary closer. The 32-year-old Puerto Rican veteran has only appeared in 16 games and has gone 2-2 with an 11.85 ERA, 2.56 WHIP, seven saves, 19 strikeouts, and 10 walks in 13 2/3 innings pitched. The three-time All-Star has not looked like himself at all and missed most of the season after having surgery to remove loose bodies from his right elbow. It is believed that Diaz's elbow and neck issues stem from a lowered arm slot this year. When Diaz is reinstated from the 15-day injured list, he is expected to be eased back in lower-leverage situations, which means fantasy managers should not expect much from him the rest of the way. Lefty Tanner Scott is the closer to roster in fantasy leagues to close out the 2026 campaign.

Sep 1 · Source via

Carlos Estevez to Have Season-Ending Shoulder Surgery Next Week

Kansas City Royals veteran right-handed reliever Carlos Estevez (shoulder) is set to have season-ending right-shoulder surgery next week, according to Anne Rogers of MLB.com. Estevez had been throwing in Arizona, but he was not progressing much. It is very unlikely that he was going to get back to the Royals this year, but this will officially end his 2026 season and likely his time with the Royals with the club option for 2027. The 33-year-old Dominican hurler officially has a strained rotator cuff in his right shoulder. Estevez, a two-time All-Star who had a league-high 42 saves with the Royals last year, appeared in just one game in 2026, allowing six earned runs in one-third of an inning against the Atlanta Braves on March 28 for a blown save and a loss. His issues started way back in spring training, when his velocity was way down. Estevez actually hit the injured list initially after being hit by a comebacker, and then he suffered a shoulder injury while rehabbing. A bounce-back season could be coming with a new team in 2027, but at this point, we have most likely seen the best that Estevez has to offer as a late-inning reliever.

Sep 1 · Source via

Closers Kansas City Royals Carlos Estevez

Braves Select Blake Burkhalter, Kyle Farmer

Sept. 1: Atlanta announced Tuesday that both Burkhalter and Farmer were selected to the major league roster. Righty Robert Suarez moves to the 60-day IL to open a 40-man spot. He's already missed more than 60 days due to elbow inflammation, making the move a mere formality. Aug. 31: The Braves appear set to call [...]

Sep 1 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Atlanta Braves Kyle Farmer

Cardinals Release Caleb Ferguson

TODAY: The Cardinals released Ferguson after he cleared waivers, according to Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. AUGUST 29: The Cardinals announced that left-hander Caleb Ferguson has been designated for assignment. Fellow southpaw Brycen Mautz was called up from Triple-A Memphis to take Ferguson's spot on the 26-man roster, and St. Louis now has [...]

Aug 30 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers St. Louis Cardinals Caleb Ferguson

Josh Hader Records 20th Save, Continues Excellent Season

There were reasons to be skeptical going into the 2026 season that Houston Astros veteran left-handed closer Josh Hader might be fading as a top-tier fantasy closer. The 32-year-old veteran southpaw got a late start to his season due to left-shoulder issues, but once he put that in the rearview mirror, he has not looked back. The six-time All-Star threw a perfect inning in Friday's 3-1 win over the New York Mets at Citi Field with two strikeouts to pick up his 20th save of the season. In his 10th year in the big leagues (third with the Astros), Hader has been electric, going 4-1 with a 0.76 ERA (1.67 FIP) and 0.68 WHIP with 48 strikeouts and 11 walks in 35 1/3 innings pitched out of the bullpen. Hader has yet to blow a save in 2026, with his last blown save dating all the way back to July 12 of 2025. Since the All-Star break, he has allowed just one earned run on seven hits while walking three and striking out 23 in 20 innings for a win and 10 saves. Hader has allowed a run in just three of his 36 appearances this year and has been reliable as ever.

Aug 29 · Source via

Closers Houston Astros Josh Hader

Jhoan Duran a High-End Fantasy Closer as Phillies Push for Playoffs

Philadelphia Phillies right-handed closer Jhoan Duran continues to be a high-end fantasy closer for a team that is currently locked into the second National League wild-card position. Since Duran's last blown save on July 27 against the division-rival Miami Marlins, he has gone 4-for-4 in save opportunities, including three saves in a row from Aug. 16 through Aug. 19. In 12 appearances (12 innings pitched) in the month of August, Duran has allowed just one earned run on 11 hits while walking two and striking out 14 batters. The 28-year-old Dominican hurler is 1-4 in his first full season in the City of Brotherly Love with a sparkling 1.71 ERA (1.22 FIP) and a 1.03 WHIP with 67 strikeouts and only eight walks all year in 47 1/3 innings out of the Phillies' bullpen. Duran's 28 saves are only four off his career high, set last year with the Phillies and Minnesota Twins. His 28 saves are tied with Atlanta Braves closer Raisel Iglesias for the eighth-most in the league. Duran has blown only two of his 30 save opportunities in 2026 and should have many more chances to set a new career high in saves over the final month of the regular season.

Aug 28 · Source via

Closers Philadelphia Phillies Jhoan Duran

Dodgers Place Roki Sasaki On Injured List

August 27: The Dodgers have officially announced Sasaki's IL placement. Right-hander Seth Halvorsen has been recalled as the corresponding move. August 26: The Dodgers will place Roki Sasaki on the 15-day injured list, manager Dave Roberts told reporters (relayed by Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic). The righty left tonight's start at Truist Park with a [...]

Aug 27 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Los Angeles Dodgers Roki Sasaki

Pete Fairbanks Receives Injections for Nerve Irritation

Miami Marlins right-handed closer Pete Fairbanks (hand) received injections for the nerve irritation in his right hand, according to Christina De Nicola of MLB.com. He will stay behind and rehab in Jupiter, Florida, and the Marlins will have a better idea of his timeline in a few days on whether he can begin throwing. For the second time this season, Fairbanks was placed on the 15-day injured list on Tuesday with a nerve issue in his throwing hand. With time running out in the 2026 regular season and with Fairbanks carrying a lot of baggage for fantasy managers chasing saves, he is not a must-hold while he recovers. In the meantime, the Marlins figure to employ a closer-by-committee situation that will be difficult to navigate for desperate fantasy managers. Calvin Faucher and Michael Petersen seem like the best options for saves for however long Fairbanks is out, but Tyler Zuber and Dax Fulton could also get involved. Fairbanks has 18 saves in 40 1/3 innings in 2026 in his first year in South Beach, but it has come with an ugly 6.02 ERA (4.47 FIP) and 1.31 WHIP with 57 strikeouts and 19 walks in 44 appearances (one start). If Miami falls any further out of the NL wild-card race (currently four games out of the third and final spot, it is possible that Fairbanks is shut down entirely.

Aug 27 · Source via

Braves Claim Ricky Vanasco

The Braves announced that they have claimed right-hander Ricky Vanasco off waivers from the Tigers and optioned him to Triple-A Gwinnett. Detroit designated him for assignment earlier this week when they signed Tyler Kinley, who had been released by Atlanta. Kinley's release gave Atlanta an open 40-man spot, which Vanasco now fills. Vanasco, 27, started [...]

Aug 26 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Detroit Tigers Atlanta Braves Ricky Vanasco

Pete Fairbanks Placed on Injured List With Nerve Irritation

The Miami Marlins announced on Tuesday that they placed right-handed closer Pete Fairbanks (hand) on the 15-day injured list with right median nerve irritation in his hand and recalled left-hander Dax Fulton from Triple-A Jacksonville in a corresponding move. Fairbanks will go on the IL for a second time this year with the same issue after he had to be pulled after facing just one batter in Monday's loss to the Boston Red Sox. He will visit with a specialist on Tuesday, after which we hope to have a better idea of how long Fairbanks might be sidelined. But given the timing as we near the final month of the regular season, fantasy managers should not be surprised if we do not see the 32-year-old veteran again in 2026. Fairbanks has 18 saves in his eighth year in the majors (first with Miami), but he has also recorded a rough 6.02 ERA (4.47 FIP) and 1.31 WHIP with 57 strikeouts and 19 walks in his 40 1/3 innings pitched. In shallower fantasy leagues, dropping Fairbanks for a healthier and more stable bullpen option would not be a bad idea. In the meantime, Miami could use a closer-by-committee situation that could involve all of Calvin Faucher, Michael Petersen, Tyler Zuber, and Josh Ekness.

Aug 25 · Source via

Marlins Could Use Closer Committee if Pete Fairbanks Misses Time

MLB.com's Christina De Nicola writes that there are a number of arms that Miami Marlins manager Clayton McCullough could turn to for saves if closer Pete Fairbanks (hand) ends up missing time with a nerve issue in his hand. Righty Tyler Zuber took over for Fairbanks on Monday against the Boston Red Sox and allowed a run on two hits in one-third of an inning for the loss. In addition to Zuber, Calvin Faucher, Tyler Phillips, Josh Ekness, and Michael Petersen could all be options to work the ninth inning going forward if Fairbanks lands on the injured list. All of the aforementioned relievers have picked up saves in 2026 for the Fish, but none of them have more than two saves on the year. McCullough hasn't tipped his hand as to whether there will be one arm that he leans on more than others in the event that Fairbanks misses extended time, leading us to believe that it will most likely be a frustrating closer-by-committee situation that fantasy managers will have a tough time navigating. Faucher and Petersen might be the best speculative additions in very deep fantasy leagues for managers who are desperate for saves late in the year.

Aug 25 · Source via

Pete Fairbanks Leaves Appearance on Monday Due to Nerve Irritation

Miami Marlins right-hander Pete Fairbanks (hand) was removed from his appearance on Monday night against the Boston Red Sox due to nerve irritation, per Stephen Strom of the Marlins Radio Network. Fairbanks entered the game in the ninth inning with the score tied 2-2, but he walked the lone batter he faced and was promptly removed from the game. It's been a season to forget for the 32-year-old, who has recorded a 6.02 ERA and 1.31 WHIP across 40 1/3 innings (44 games). Fairbanks has had stretches of usefulness for fantasy managers, as he's still recorded 18 saves and posted a stellar 32.4% strikeout rate. However, he's been prone to blow-up outings and could now be headed for his second stint on the injured list in 2026. If Fairbanks misses time, Marlins right-hander Calvin Faucher could see the majority of Miami's save chances.

Aug 24 · Source via

Felix Bautista Begins Minor League Rehab Assignment

Felix Bautista threw 22 pitches today with Double-A Chesapeake, allowing a hit and three walks while retiring just one of five batters faced in the first game of his minor league rehab assignment. Michael Howes of the Baltimore Sun was among those to report that the right-hander averaged 95.1mph on his fastball, hitting 97mph with [...]

Aug 24 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Baltimore Orioles Felix Bautista

Edwin Diaz to be Eased Back in Lower-Leverage Role When he Returns

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said on Saturday that right-handed reliever Edwin Diaz (neck) will be eased back into a lower-leverage role in the team's bullpen once he returns from the 15-day injured list in September, according to Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register. Diaz, the Dodgers' big free-agent acquisition last offseason, has only appeared in 16 games in his first year with the team in 2026 due to elbow and neck injuries, and he has been bad when he has been available. The 32-year-old Puerto Rican hurler and three-time All-Star currently has an 11.85 ERA (6.01 FIP), 2.56 WHIP, seven saves, 19 strikeouts, and 10 walks in 13 2/3 innings pitched. Diaz will be eased in next month when he returns as the Dodgers look to get him right for the postseason, but with just over a month left in the campaign, it's fair for fantasy managers to wonder if he's even worth holding in redraft leagues. The good news is that Diaz's neck injury is not believed to be serious, and he has a chance to come off the injured list around when he is eligible to return on Sept. 2. In the meantime, lefty reliever Tanner Scott will continue to be Roberts' leading candidate for saves.

Aug 23 · Source via

Daniel Palencia Officially Returns on Friday

Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Daniel Palenica (elbow) was activated off the 60-day Injured List ahead of Friday's game against the Seattle Mariners, Taylor McGregor reports. Palenica is officially back in the mix after being sidelined since mid-June due to an elbow issue. When healthy, Palencia has posted a 2.70 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, and a 19/6 K/BB ratio across 16.2 innings of work in 19 appearances. Jacob Webb was pitching well as the closer while Palencia was out, but he'll move out of that role now. Fantasy managers looking for a source of saves should snag Palencia off the waiver wire before it's too late. In a corresponding move, right-hander Javier Assad was optioned to Triple-A Iowa on Friday

Aug 21 · Source via

Justin Martinez Could be a Stash Option

Arizona Diamondbacks relief pitcher Justin Martinez recently made his season debut after missing a majority of the season while recovering from Tommy John surgery. Martinez threw a scoreless inning against the Boston Red Sox during his season debut on Tuesday. He is pitching in low-leverage situations right now, but could work his way into the closer role in Arizona. Martinez earned 14 saves between the 2024 and 2025 seasons with the D-Backs. This team doesn't have a lockdown closer at the moment after Paul Sewald lost the job. Martinez could quickly slide into the role if he continues to pitch well. He's someone to keep an eye on as a possible stash in September.

Aug 21 · Source via

Closers Arizona Diamondbacks Justin Martinez

Ben Joyce is Gaining Value After Notching Third Save

Los Angeles Angels relief pitcher Ben Joyce might be the closer of the future for this organization. He has been limited to six innings this season, but is quickly making an impact with the Halos. So far this season, Joyce has thrown six scoreless innings, allowing one hit, while striking out eight batters. He notched his third save of the season versus the Houston Astros on Tuesday. Joyce is looking like a decent source of saves for fantasy managers down the stretch of the season. The Angels don't win a ton of games, but Joyce is likely to remain the full-time closer as long as he keeps pitching well.

Aug 21 · Source via

Tanner Scott Re-Emerging as a Must-Roster Closer

Los Angeles Dodgers left-hander Tanner Scott picked up his 18th save of the season on Wednesday night, pitching a scoreless 10th inning with a strikeout in his team's 6-4 extra-inning win over the Colorado Rockies. With Dodgers closer Edwin Diaz (neck) back on the injured list, Scott has now earned saves in back-to-back appearances and should see regular save opportunities for as long as Diaz remains sidelined. Across 51 1/3 innings (55 games) on the year, Scott has pitched to a 2.28 ERA and 0.92 WHIP with 63 strikeouts and 18 saves. The 32-year-old has struck out 32% of the batters he's faced while posting just a 5.6% walk rate. In any league where Scott is available, he should be viewed as a must-roster saves source until Diaz returns from the IL.

Aug 20 · Source via

Cubs To Activate Daniel Palencia

The Cubs will reinstate Daniel Palencia from the 60-day injured list before Friday's series opener in Seattle, reports Meghan Montemurro of The Chicago Tribune. Chicago will need to open a spot on the pitching staff and 40-man rosters after tomorrow's off day. Palencia was just transferred to the 60-day IL on Monday in a procedural move [...]

Aug 20 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Chicago Cubs Daniel Palencia

Edwin Diaz's MRI Comes Back Clean, to be Shut Down for a "Couple Days"

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said that right-handed closer Edwin Diaz (neck) got a "best-case" prognosis from his doctor's visit on Wednesday, with his MRI exam coming back clean, per Jack Harris of The California Post. There were no other "findings" in his neck. Diaz will be shut down from throwing for "a couple days," according to Roberts, before the team sees how he is feeling from there. The Dodgers placed the struggling closer on the 15-day injured list on Tuesday due to inflammation in his neck, which the team believes may have been caused by a lower arm angle this year. Diaz also missed time in his first season in L.A. after having surgery to clean up loose bodies in his right elbow. Since coming off the IL for his elbow surgery, the 32-year-old Puerto Rican really struggled, posting a 12.91 ERA (6.86 FIP) with two losses, three saves, and three blown saves in nine appearances over 7 2/3 innings. Diaz has been a major bust in his first year with the Dodgers, but he might not require a lengthy IL stay this time around, and he is still rostered in 72% of Yahoo leagues. Until he returns, lefty Tanner Scott should resume primary closing duties for Roberts.

Aug 19 · Source via

Daniel Palencia Will be Activated on Friday

Chicago Cubs right-handed reliever Daniel Palencia (elbow) will be activated from the 60-day injured list on Friday before the series opener against the Seattle Mariners, according to Meghan Montemurro of The Chicago Tribune. Palencia was the Cubs' primary closer earlier this year before he landed on the injured list on June 16 with a flexor strain in his right elbow, but it remains to be seen how manager Craig Counsell will manage the back end of his bullpen down the stretch with Palencia back in the fold. Jacob Webb has emerged as a trusted source of saves for the Cubbies, having converted seven straight saves while giving up zero runs in his last 23 outings out of the bullpen. At the very least, Palencia will be eased into high-leverage situations in Chicago as he returns from yet another injury. The 26-year-old Venezuelan had a career-high 22 saves in the regular season in 2025, but he has appeared in only 19 games in 2026 while saving three games in 16 2/3 innings pitched. Fantasy managers scrounging for saves should be interested in stashing Palencia, who is rostered in 57% of Yahoo leagues.

Aug 19 · Source via

Kyle Leahy Emerging as a Must-Roster Starting Pitcher

St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Kyle Leahy notched his 10th win of 2026 on Tuesday, throwing five scoreless innings with six strikeouts in his team's 3-0 win over the Cincinnati Reds. Across 122 1/3 innings (24 starts) this season, the 29-year-old has recorded a 10-4 record with a 3.24 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, and 111 strikeouts. Leahy has been particularly hot of late, as he's logged wins in each of his last three outings and has not allowed more than two earned runs in a start since June 17. The right-hander generates a lot of ground balls, which can lead to a higher batting average on balls in play and an elevated WHIP. However, he's difficult to barrel up (0.88 HR/9) and has allowed a solid 6.8% walk rate. In his last 36 innings pitched, Leahy has walked just two batters. Particularly given his pitcher-friendly home environment in St. Louis, Leahy should be viewed as a priority waiver wire candidate in any league where he remains available.

Aug 19 · Source via

Closers St. Louis Cardinals Kyle Leahy

Daniel Palencia Set to Be Activated from Injured List "Soon"

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell said that right-hander Daniel Palencia (elbow) will be activated off the injured list "soon," per Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network. Palencia has been on the IL since mid-June due to elbow inflammation, but he's made five minor league rehab appearances since August 5 and appears to be on the doorstep of a return to the big leagues. Across 16 2/3 innings (19 games) on the year, Palencia has recorded a 2.70 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 19 strikeouts, and three saves. The Cubs have deployed a closer committee for most of the year and could continue to do so once Palencia returns. However, the 26-year-old recorded 22 saves in 2025 and profiles as Chicago's highest-upside relief arm. Ahead of his impending activation, Palencia should be viewed as a priority waiver wire target in any fantasy league where he remains available.

Aug 18 · Source via

Ben Joyce A Saves Target To Close Out the Season

Los Angeles Angels right-handed reliever Ben Joyce didn't make his 2026 debut until Aug. 5 due to a shoulder injury that sidelined him for the entire first half of the season. The hard-throwing righty has thrown five scoreless innings with one hit allowed, one walk, and six strikeouts to get started, and he has recorded saves in each of his last two appearances. The Angels might continue to use a closer-by-committee down the stretch, also involving left-hander Samy Natera Jr. (he had a save last Tuesday) and right-hander Jose Fermin, but Joyce has a great opportunity to lead the team in save chances to close out the 2026 campaign. The 25-year-old former third-round pick in 2022 from the University of Tennessee had four saves in the 2024 season and has gone 4-1 with a 2.83 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, and 50:25 K:BB in 54 innings with the Halos since he made his major-league debut back in 2023. Fantasy managers in deeper leagues who are searching for saves should look Joyce's way off the waiver wire. He's rostered in only 12% of Yahoo leagues.

Aug 17 · Source via

Jordan Romano Is Still Too Available

Colorado Rockies relief pitcher Jordan Romano has 12 saves this season, including eight since the Rockies selected his contract on July 4. He converted his latest chance Wednesday against Arizona, working around a two-out walk in a scoreless ninth to finish a 6-4 win. Romano has gone eight-for-nine in save opportunities with Colorado and owns a 3.09 ERA with 14 strikeouts in 11 2/3 innings for the club. The walks are still something fantasy managers have to live with. Romano has issued seven of them during his Rockies stint, contributing to a 1.54 WHIP, but Colorado keeps handing him the ninth. RotoBaller currently lists the bullpen as solid with Romano on top, and he sits 25th in its Week 21 closer rankings. Even so, Yahoo has him rostered in just 12% of leagues. Romano fits best as an add in 15-team formats, especially for managers who need another steady path to saves.

Aug 15 · Source via

Griffin Jax Resumes Throwing

Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Griffin Jax (elbow) was able to throw from 120 feet on Friday, according to Marc Topkin. This is encouraging news after Jax recently got an injection in his right elbow. Rays manager Kevin Cash described the throwing session as "very, very good" and noted the team will begin ramping up Jax's activity. The right-hander is eligible to return from the IL on August 21, but it's unclear if his stint will be that quick. Given his progress, fantasy managers should have Jax back in the mix before the end of the month. Fantasy managers looking for pitching help should scoop Jax up off the waiver wire in leagues where he was dropped.

Aug 14 · Source via

Emilio Pagan Dealing With Hand Soreness

Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona said that right-handed closer Emilio Pagan (hand) was dealing with some hand soreness, which is why he wasn't available to pitch in the ninth inning in Thursday's win over the Chicago White Sox, according to Chatterbox Sports. Francona said that Pagan is going to be looked at on Friday morning, and if he checks out well, he should be available out of the bullpen for Friday's series opener at home against the Miami Marlins. With Pagan unavailable on Thursday, Julian Garcia recorded his second career save while allowing a run in the process. If Pagan's hand injury keeps him out longer, Garcia, Tejay Antone, and Pierce Johnson could all be options for saves for Francona. The 35-year-old Pagan missed a big chunk of the season in the first half due to a hamstring strain, and he has a less-than-ideal 4.10 ERA in 26 1/3 innings, but he's Cincy's primary closer when healthy and has 14 saves on the year. Francona has been pretty loyal to Pagan as his primary ninth-inning man.

Aug 14 · Source via

Closers Cincinnati Reds Emilio Pagan

Luke Weaver Could Lead Pirates in Saves To Close Out the Season

The Pittsburgh Pirates acquired veteran right-handed reliever Luke Weaver from the New York Mets at this year's trade deadline earlier in the month, and although he has yet to pick up a save with his new club, he should be considered a favorite to lead the team in saves to close out the 2026 campaign. Before the trade, Weaver was 2-1 with the Mets with a sharp 1.84 ERA, 0.82 WHIP, one save, and a 45:11 K:BB in 44 innings pitched. The 32-year-old has only appeared once with the Bucs since being acquired, but he pitched a clean ninth inning with a hit allowed and a walk in a 6-4 loss to his former team, the Mets. The Pirates are expected to go with a closer-by-committee with Weaver, Gregory Soto, and Mason Montgomery, but among the trio, Weaver has been the best relief arm in 2026. The downside is that he doesn't have a whole lot of closing experience in his career, picking up just 13 saves in his 11-year MLB career. Fantasy managers in deeper leagues speculating on saves should give Weaver a look, and he's rostered in only 28% of Yahoo leagues.

Aug 14 · Source via

Closers Pittsburgh Pirates Luke Weaver

Tanner Scott a Top Stash After Dodgers Blow Another Save?

Los Angeles Dodgers left-handed reliever Tanner Scott returned to a late-inning setup role in L.A. when regular closer Edwin Diaz returned from the injured list in late July, which led to him being dropped in many fantasy leagues without a consistent path to saves. The 32-year-old veteran southpaw could be worth picking up again off the waiver wire after another blown save by Diaz in a loss to the visiting Milwaukee Brewers on Thursday night. Diaz was hit with a blown save and a loss, and he's allowed seven runs with three blown saves in 3 2/3 innings so far in August. Although the 32-year-old is being paid a lot, the Dodgers could be considering demoting him from the closer's role as they look to close out the National League West late in the year. Diaz has an 11.57 ERA while converting just six of his 10 save chances in 2026, while Scott, after a rough first year in L.A. in 2025, has been solid with a 2.25 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, and 16 saves in 48 innings pitched. Scott is rostered in less than half of Yahoo leagues and is worth stashing in the event Diaz is demoted.

Aug 14 · Source via

Ben Joyce Emerging as a Waiver-Wire Target

Los Angeles Angels right-hander Ben Joyce notched his first save of 2026 on Wednesday, pitching a scoreless ninth inning with a strikeout in his team's 5-2 win over the Texas Rangers. Joyce has barely pitched in the last two seasons due to shoulder issues. However, the 25-year-old has been steady since making his 2026 season debut on August 5, allowing just one hit and zero earned runs across four innings. If Joyce can stay healthy, he may be the highest-upside reliever in the Angels bullpen. He's averaging 101.3 miles per hour on his fastball and features a power sinker that should make him very difficult to take deep. While Joyce does not have an established track record as the Angels closer, he could still be the team's preferred option at this point in the season. Fantasy managers in need of saves should target Joyce on the waiver wire.

Aug 13 · Source via

Griffin Jax to Resume Throwing Soon

Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Griffin Jax (elbow) received an injection in his right elbow after a visit with Dr. Keith Meister, according to Ryan Bass. Jax appears to be in a good place after landing on the 15-day Injured List on Sunday due to right elbow discomfort. Rays' manager Kevin Cash said they plan to give Jax a few days off to rest and then get him back to throwing. This is looking like a best-case scenario where Jax avoids surgery and could return when first eligible on August 21. Fantasy managers who panic dropped Jax might want to consider adding him again. The right-hander could be back in the rotation in a few weeks, assuming everything goes well. He's worth a stash in fantasy formats where he was dropped.

Aug 12 · Source via

Jordan Romano Picks Up Another Save on Tuesday

Colorado Rockies right-hander Jordan Romano notched his 11th total save and seventh save with Colorado on Tuesday, pitching a scoreless ninth inning in his team's 3-2 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks. Romano began the year with the Los Angeles Angels and struggled to a 10.13 ERA across 11 appearances before being released. However, he's been effective since latching on with the Rockies. Across 10 2/3 innings with Colorado, Romano has recorded a 3.38 ERA, 1.59 WHIP, and seven saves. Romano's walk rate is concerningly high at 13.2%, and his average fastball velocity is down to a career-worst 94.1 miles per hour. Still, he's posted a solid 28.6% strikeout rate, and he appears to be the clear preferred option in the ninth inning for the Rockies. In deeper league formats, Romano should be scooped up off the waiver wire.

Aug 12 · Source via

Andrew Kittredge Earns Sixth Save on Tuesday, Remains a Worthy Waiver Wire Target

Baltimore Orioles right-hander Andrew Kittredge picked up his sixth save of the season on Tuesday, pitching a scoreless ninth inning with a strikeout in his team's 5-2 win over the Minnesota Twins. Across 35 1/3 innings (41 games) in 2026, Kittredge has recorded a 3.57 ERA and 1.33 WHIP with 30 strikeouts. The 36-year-old has been a reliable arm for Baltimore of late, allowing just two earned runs since the start of July. With Orioles closer Ryan Helsley (elbow) on the injured list, Kittredge has also recorded three saves in his last six outings. The Orioles also have right-handers Yennier Cano and Rico Garcia as capable high-leverage arms, so fantasy managers should not expect Kittredge to be the sole closer in Baltimore. Still, Kittredge is worth targeting on the waiver wire in deeper league formats.

Aug 12 · Source via

Kevin Ginkel May Be the Closer to Roster in Arizona

Across 50 innings (53 games) in 2026, Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander Kevin Ginkel has recorded a 3.60 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 47 strikeouts, and 11 holds. The 32-year-old has largely been deployed in a setup role this season. However, the Diamondbacks recently designated veteran right-hander Paul Sewald for assignment. Sewald had been the team's closer for most of 2026 before running into major struggles in the second half of the season. Ginkel picked up his first save of the year on Sunday and could now be part of a closer committee in Arizona with left-hander Brandyn Garcia and right-hander Juan Morillo. Ginkel has the advantage of experience on his side, as he's logged 17 saves and 60 holds across 309 career innings with the Diamondbacks. In deeper leagues, Ginkel could be a worthy waiver wire target for fantasy managers.

Aug 11 · Source via

Closers Arizona Diamondbacks Kevin Ginkel

Jacob Webb Looks Like the Saves Source to Roster in Chicago

Across 51 2/3 innings (52 games) in 2026, Chicago Cubs right-hander Jacob Webb has recorded a 4-2 record with a 2.44 ERA and 1.18 WHIP with 58 strikeouts and seven saves. With closer Daniel Palencia (elbow) on the injured list, the Cubs have largely taken a committee approach to the ninth inning. Still, Webb has now earned saves in each of his last two appearances, both of which came after Chicago acquired right-hander Ryan Zeferjahn from the Los Angeles Angels at the trade deadline. Even with another high-leverage arm in the mix for the Cubs, Webb may be the team's preferred option. The 32-year-old has posted a stellar 27.1% strikeout rate and has been one of Chicago's more reliable bullpen arms all season long. In deeper leagues, Webb carries waiver wire appeal for fantasy managers in need of stable ratios and some saves upside.

Aug 11 · Source via

Closers Chicago Cubs Jacob Webb

Mets Place Closer Devin Williams on Injured List With Shoulder Strain

The New York Mets placed right-handed closer Devin Williams (shoulder) on the 15-day injured list on Monday with a strained right shoulder, according to Jorge Castillo of ESPN. Williams missed time recently with arm fatigue, but now he'll miss at least another two weeks with a shoulder injury. In what has been a lost season for the Mets, fantasy managers should not be surprised if Williams is eventually shut down for the rest of the year. With reliever Luke Weaver now in Pittsburgh, Daniel Duarte could be the team's favorite for saves with Williams on the shelf. Duarte recorded his second career save last week when Williams was unavailable to pitch, and he's been solid with a 1.17 ERA, 0.78 WHIP, and 13 strikeouts this year, albeit in a small sample size of only 15 1/3 innings pitched. The Mexican right-hander only has two career saves in four MLB seasons. Along with Duarte, former starter Kodai Senga could be an option for the Mets late in games with saves on the line.

Aug 10 · Source via

Closers New York Mets Devin Williams

Jake Woodford Elects Free Agency

TODAY: Woodford cleared waivers and elected free agency over an outright assignment to Triple-A Iowa, as per Woodford's MLB.com profile page. AUGUST 4: The Cubs announced that trade acquisitions Tyrone Taylor and Ryan Zeferjahn have been activated onto the roster. In corresponding moves, they have optioned outfielder Kevin Alcántara and designated right-hander Jake Woodford for [...]

Aug 9 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Chicago Cubs Jake Woodford

Rays Place Griffin Jax On 15-Day Injured List

Prior to today's game, the Rays announced that right-hander Griffin Jax has been placed on the 15-day injured list (retroactive to August 6) due to discomfort in his throwing elbow. Right-hander Michael Grove was called up from Triple-A to take Jax's spot on the active roster. Jax was supposed to start yesterday but was scratched [...]

Aug 9 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Tampa Bay Rays Griffin Jax

Royals Sign Craig Kimbrel

The Royals have signed veteran right-hander Craig Kimbrel to a Major League contract, the New York Post's Jon Heyman reports. Kimbrel is represented by SportsMeter. Once Kimbrel appears in a game, Kansas City will become the 12th team the reliever has officially played with during his 17 MLB seasons. The Royals will be the third [...]

Aug 9 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Kansas City Royals Craig Kimbrel

Griffin Jax Lands on 15-Day Injured List

Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Griffin Jax (elbow) was placed on the 15-day Injured List on Sunday, according to Ryan Bass. Jax was scratched from his scheduled start against the Seattle Mariners on Saturday. A day later, Jax heads to the shelf due to right elbow discomfort. He'll be eligible to return on August 21, but his exact timetable to return is unclear at the moment. In a corresponding move, right-hander Michael Grove was recalled from Triple-A Durham. It's uncertain at the moment who is going to replace Jax in the starting rotation. Fantasy managers should check back for a better timetable on Jax in the coming days.

Aug 9 · Source via

Griffin Jax Scratched from Saturday's Start With Elbow Discomfort

Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Griffin Jax (elbow) was scratched ahead of his scheduled start against the Seattle Mariners on Saturday. Jax was pulled ahead of this outing due to right elbow discomfort, so the Rays will be forced to go with a bullpen game. Casey Legumina will be used as an opener with Jax unavailable. The hope is that this is a minor injury that won't force Jax onto the Injured List. This season, Jax owns a 3.63 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, and a 100/30 K/BB ratio across 91.2 innings of work this season. Jax has been a stud lately and is picking up steam in fantasy leagues. Fantasy managers should check back for another update on his status.

Aug 8 · Source via

Brewers Outright Carlos Rodriguez, Thomas Pannone

The Brewers sent pitchers Carlos Rodriguez and Thomas Pannone outright to Triple-A Nashville, reports Adam McCalvy of MLB.com. Pannone has the right to elect free agency but Rodriguez will need to accept the assignment. Both players were recently designated for assignment. The out-of-options Pannone was bumped from the big league staff when DL Hall came off the [...]

Aug 7 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Milwaukee Brewers Thomas Pannone Carlos Rodriguez

Devin Williams "Good to Go" on Thursday After Dealing with Arm Fatigue

New York Mets closer Devin Williams (arm) is "good to go" on Thursday, per Laura Albanese of Newsday. Albanese previously reported that Williams is battling arm fatigue, but it appears it is not a serious enough issue to force him to miss time. Across 37 2/3 innings (41 games) in 2026, Williams has recorded a 4.30 ERA, 1.59 WHIP, 51 strikeouts, and 16 saves. The 31-year-old remains a reliable source of swing-and-miss, as he's posted a 29.6% strikeout rate. However, Williams' 11.6% walk rate remains an issue, and his average fastball velocity is down to a career-worst 93.9 miles per hour. If his current arm fatigue lingers and causes Williams' velocity to drop even further, his production level could continue to fade.

Aug 6 · Source via

Closers New York Mets Devin Williams

Andrew Kittredge Deserving of Waiver Attention After Earning Fifth Save

Baltimore Orioles veteran right-handed reliever Andrew Kittredge is becoming more attractive in deeper fantasy baseball leagues for managers desperate for saves. Kittredge locked down his fifth save of the season by throwing a clean inning with no hits allowed, no walks, and no strikeouts on Wednesday to close out a 5-2 victory over the Los Angeles Angels at Camden Yards. The 36-year-old has allowed three earned runs in 1 1/3 innings pitched so far in August, but he has two saves in his last four appearances and is now second on the team this year in saves. In 12 relief outings in July, Kittredge didn't give up a single run and had three walks, seven strikeouts, three saves, one blown save, and three holds in 11 innings pitched. He's 1-3 on the season with a 4.05 ERA (4.20 FIP) and 1.44 WHIP with 29 strikeouts and 10 walks in 33 1/3 total innings. Kittredge definitely is not a sexy reliever by any means, but with Ryan Helsley (elbow) still on the injured list, he could continue to get save opportunities alongside Yennier Cano and Rico Garcia, and he's rostered in only 5% of Yahoo leagues.

Aug 6 · Source via

Daniel Palencia Blows a Save in First Rehab Appearance

Chicago Cubs right-handed reliever Daniel Palencia (elbow) didn't exactly have the greatest first minor-league rehab outing on Wednesday at Triple-A Iowa. Palencia allowed an earned run on one hit while walking two and striking out one in two-thirds of an inning to blow the save against Triple-A Indianapolis. He threw half of his pitches for strikes but did sit around 98 mph with his fastball, which is encouraging. The 26-year-old Venezuelan hurler last pitched for the Cubbies on June 15, so he will need at least a couple more rehab appearances to try to get his command in the right place. Once reinstated from the 15-day injured list, the Cubs could ease Palencia back into high-leverage situations out of the bullpen, but the expectation is that Palencia will once again become manager Craig Counsell's preferred option for saves in the ninth inning. Palencia has appeared in only 19 games this year and has a 2.70 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, three saves, and 19 strikeouts in 16 2/3 innings pitched after he saved a career-high 22 games for Chicago last year. Palencia is rostered in only 59% of Yahoo leagues. Now is the time to scoop him up if you need saves.

Aug 6 · Source via

Yennier Cano Emerging as Deep-League Play for Saves

Baltimore Orioles right-handed reliever Yennier Cano is emerging as a potential option for saves in deeper leagues after picking up his second save of the season in Tuesday's 3-1 win over the visiting Los Angeles Angels at Camden Yards. Both relievers Rico Garcia and Andrew Kittredge worked before Cano in this one, with the 32-year-old veteran closing things out with a hit allowed, no walks, and two strikeouts in his inning of work. Right-hander Ryan Helsley (elbow) remains on the injured list, and the O's traded away right-hander Tyler Wells, who was the only Baltimore pitcher to have more than one save chance since the All-Star break in mid-July. Cano has been sharp this year, going 2-2 with a 2.09 ERA (2.37 FIP), 0.93 WHIP, two saves, 34 strikeouts, and only eight walks in 38 2/3 innings out of the bullpen in his fifth big-league season. He's been even better since the start of July, allowing just one earned run with one walk, seven strikeouts, a win, one save, one blown save, and two holds. Fantasy managers speculating on saves in deep leagues should look Cano's way. He's rostered in just 5% of Yahoo leagues.

Aug 5 · Source via

Closers Baltimore Orioles Yennier Cano

Daniel Palencia Starting a Rehab Assignment on Wednesday

Chicago Cubs right-handed reliever Daniel Palencia (elbow) will start a minor-league rehab assignment at Triple-A Iowa on Wednesday, according to Meghan Montemurro of The Chicago Tribune. Palencia has been sidelined since June 16 with a mild right flexor strain, but the 26-year-old is nearing a return to the major-league bullpen for the stretch run. Because of injuries in 2026, Palencia has only thrown 16 2/3 innings and recorded all three of his saves after picking up a career-high 22 saves in 54 regular-season appearances in 2025. The Cubs picked up right-handed reliever Ryan Zeferjahn from the Los Angeles Angels at Monday's trade deadline, but when back and fully healthy, Palencia is expected to take over as the team's primary closer in the ninth inning. Fantasy managers searching for saves should look to stash Palencia now. He's rostered in 59% of Yahoo leagues. Along with his three saves in 16 2/3 frames this year, Palencia has a 2.70 ERA (3.46 FIP), 1.38 WHIP, and 19:6 K:BB.

Aug 5 · Source via

Luke Weaver a Priority Waiver-Wire Pickup for Saves-Needy Managers

The New York Mets sent veteran right-handed reliever Luke Weaver to the Pittsburgh Pirates at Monday's trade deadline, and he figures to immediately become the Pirates' preferred option for saves in the ninth inning. It means that Weaver is one of the bigger trade-deadline winners in terms of a boost to his fantasy value for the rest of the 2026 season. The 32-year-old was excellent for the Mets in his 42 relief appearances (44 innings), posting a 1.84 ERA and 0.82 WHIP with 45 strikeouts and 11 walks, but he had just one save in his first year in Queens. The former first-rounder by the St. Louis Cardinals in 2014 from Florida State University has been nearly untouchable since the start of June, allowing just two runs (one earned) while walking only three and striking out 21 in 19 1/3 innings to go with his only save of the season and eight holds. At the very least, Weaver should continue to be a great source of holds in the Steel City, but the expectation is that he'll see a big boost in save opportunities now that he's not setting up for closer Devin Williams with the Mets.

Aug 4 · Source via

Closers Pittsburgh Pirates Luke Weaver

Jeff Hoffman Back on Waiver-Wire Radar With New Club

The Minnesota Twins acquired veteran right-handed reliever Jeff Hoffman at Monday's trade deadline to further bolster their bullpen for the stretch run, and the move should make the 33-year-old more attractive off the waiver wire in fantasy baseball leagues. Hoffman opened the 2026 season as the closer for the Toronto Blue Jays, but a rough start to the year led to him being demoted from the role, which caused him to lose most of his fantasy appeal. Overall, he is 6-7 with a 3.94 ERA (2.49 FIP), 1.37 WHIP, only five saves, 75 strikeouts, and 18 walks in his 48 innings out of the bullpen for the Blue Jays. However, since the start of June, Hoffman has turned things around, posting a 1.21 ERA (2.34 FIP) with eight walks, 30 strikeouts, two wins, a blown save, and six holds. Yoendrys Gomez has been the Twins' closer, but if he struggles at all, the Twins probably won't hesitate to turn to Hoffman, who has 50 career saves in his 11 big-league seasons. Right now, Hoffman is rostered in just over half of Yahoo leagues. He's a more intriguing speculative stash for saves now.

Aug 4 · Source via

Closers Minnesota Twins Jeff Hoffman

Cubs Bolster Bullpen by Acquiring Reliever Ryan Zeferjahn in Trade With Angels

The Chicago Cubs acquired right-handed reliever Ryan Zeferjahn from the Los Angeles Angels on Monday in exchange for catcher Moises Ballesteros and minor-league pitcher Mason McGwire, the son of former big-league legend Mark McGwire, according to Francys Romero. Just when Zeferjahn was becoming a deep-league saves option in Anaheim, the 28-year-old was traded to a contender to help bolster the back end of their bullpen with regular closer Daniel Palencia (elbow) still on the injured list. Zeferjahn is 4-3 with a 3.66 ERA (3.77 FIP), 1.20 WHIP, a career-high four saves, 75 strikeouts, and 32 walks in 51 2/3 innings pitched in 2026 in his third year in the majors. With the last-place Angels, he wasn't a very convincing pickup off the waiver wire in deep fantasy leagues with save opportunities coming his way recently, but Zeferjahn should be more enticing to managers desperate for saves now that he has a shot for ninth-inning work on the North Side in Chicago. The Cubs have been using a closer-by-committee of late, consisting of Jacob Webb, Trent Thornton, and Caleb Thielbar.

Aug 3 · Source via

Closers Los Angeles Angels Ryan Zeferjahn

Pirates Acquiring Late-Inning Reliever Luke Weaver From the Mets

The Pittsburgh Pirates are acquiring right-handed reliever Luke Weaver from the New York Mets on Monday, a source told Jorge Castillo of ESPN. Weaver was one of the few bright spots for the Mets in 2026, going 2-1 with a stingy 1.84 ERA (0.82 WHIP), one save, 45 strikeouts and 11 walks in 44 innings pitched out of the bullpen. Left-hander Gregory Soto has been Pittsburgh's primary source of saves so far in 2026, but he's been pretty volatile, so it seems likely that Weaver is going to get a huge fantasy boost and jump into save opportunities in his new digs. The 32-year-old Weaver will remain under contract with Pittsburgh through the 2027 season and will be paid $12.5 million. He's currently only rostered in 17% of Yahoo leagues, but with the trade to the Pirates, Weaver's fantasy stock should improve drastically in the coming days. Weaver is in his 11th season in the majors, with all 13 of his career saves coming in the last three years.

Aug 3 · Source via

Closers New York Mets Luke Weaver

Ryan Zeferjahn Continues to Emerge in Angels Bullpen

Los Angeles Angels right-handed reliever Ryan Zeferjahn continues to emerge at the back end of the team's bullpen in the second half of the season after picking up his fourth save of the year in the team's 3-0 win over the visiting Milwaukee Brewers on Sunday. Zeferjahn allowed two hits, no walks, and struck out four in his 1 2/3 innings of work in the series finale at Angel Stadium. The 28-year-old former third-rounder by the Boston Red Sox in 2019 from the University of Kansas is 4-3 on the year with a 3.66 ERA (3.77 FIP) and 1.20 WHIP with 75 strikeouts and 32 walks in 51 2/3 innings out of the bullpen in his third year in the majors with the Halos. In 11 outings (12 1/3 innings pitched) since the beginning of July, Zeferjahn has allowed only three earned runs with two walks, 21 strikeouts, two saves, and three holds for the Angels. With Ben Joyce still on the injured list, Zeferjahn has become manager Kurt Suzuki's primary closer of late, giving him waiver-wire appeal in deeper fantasy leagues for managers who are desperate for saves. Zeferjahn is rostered in only 3% of Yahoo leagues.

Aug 3 · Source via

Closers Los Angeles Angels Ryan Zeferjahn

Gregory Soto Re-Emerging as Ninth-Inning Favorite in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Pirates left-hander Gregory Soto picked up his 14th save of the season on Saturday, pitching a scoreless ninth inning with a strikeout in his team's 4-1 win over the Cincinnati Reds. It was a nice bounce-back outing for Soto, who allowed the game-winning run to score after entering the ninth inning with the game tied against Cincinnati on Thursday. Soto had a rough month in June, allowing 11 earned runs in 7 1/3 innings. However, he stabilized himself in July, allowing just two earned runs while notching 11 strikeouts and two saves. Soto's numbers for the year overall remain strong, as he's posted a 27.7% strikeout rate and a 3.69 ERA. Barring an addition to the Pirates' bullpen in the next couple of days before the trade deadline, Soto remains the saves source to target in Pittsburgh.

Aug 2 · Source via

Closers Pittsburgh Pirates Gregory Soto

Seranthony Dominguez Traded to the Mariners

The Chicago White Sox traded reliever Seranthony Dominguez, outfielder Nolan Jones, and catcher Boston Smith to the Seattle Mariners in exchange for right-hander Luis Castillo, according to Jeff Passan of ESPN. Dominguez signed a two-year, $20 million contract with the White Sox this offseason to be the team's closer. He struggled as the team's closer earlier in the season, converting just 12 of 17 save opportunities and eventually lost the job to Grant Taylor and Sean Newcomb in June. The 31-year-old owns a 3.99 ERA, 1.33 WHIP, and 47 strikeouts across 38 1/3 innings. With Andres Munoz locked in as Seattle's closer, Dominguez will be used mostly in leverage situations. Fantasy managers can move on from Dominguez outside leagues that reward saves and holds, as he is third in the pecking order for save chances behind Munoz and Jose A. Ferrer.

Aug 2 · Source via

Closers Seattle Mariners Seranthony Dominguez

Mariners Trade Luis Castillo to the White Sox

Seattle Mariners right-hander Luis Castillo was traded to the Chicago White Sox in exchange for Seranthony Dominguez, Nolan Jones, and Boston Smith, according to Jeff Passan on ESPN. Castillo will head to Chicago to bolster the team's starting rotation as the White Sox make a playoff push. The 31-year-old struggled in his previous start against the Dodgers, allowing five runs on 11 hits across five innings. He didn't record a win in July and owned an ugly 5.48 ERA. Hopefully, the move to Chicago will help Castillo turn things around this season. He owns a (3-9) record along with a 5.06 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, and an 86:32 K:BB across 99 2/3 innings. Chicago hopes to get the version of Castillo who posted a 3.50 ERA and a 1.15 WHIP from 2023-2025. It's unclear when Castillo will make his debut with the White Sox, but the change of scenery should only help him rebound from what is the worst season of his career so far.

Aug 2 · Source via

Closers Seattle Mariners Chicago White Sox Luis Castillo Seranthony Dominguez Nolan Jones

Pirates Showed Interest In Huascar Brazobán

According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, the Pirates recently expressed some interest in trading for Mets reliever Huascar Brazobán. This report came before the Pirates dealt for Camilo Doval, but given the state of their bullpen - which ranks among the bottom half of teams in ERA, SIERA, and Win Probability Added [...]

Aug 1 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Pittsburgh Pirates Camilo Doval

Daniel Palencia to Throw Live Bullpen on Saturday

Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Daniel Palencia (elbow) is set to throw a live bullpen session on Saturday after completing multiple bullpen sessions over the past week. Manager Craig Counsell noted that if the 26-year-old reliever feels good coming out of the live session, he could be in line to begin a minor league rehab assignment shortly afterward. If everything goes according to plan and he avoids any setbacks, there is a chance he could return to the Cubs by the middle of August, giving the team its top reliever back to close out games for the final six weeks of the season. Palencia has struggled to stay healthy throughout his career, but when healthy, he has been highly effective, recording 25 saves over the past two seasons.

Aug 1 · Source via

Ryan Helsley Resumes Throwing

Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Ryan Helsley (right elbow) has resumed throwing while recovering from inflammation around his UCL. The 32-year-old has been sidelined since feeling discomfort while warming in the bullpen July 1. An MRI showed no ligament damage, but this is his second right-elbow IL stint of the season after he was also out from May 1 through June 16. Baltimore transferred Helsley to the 60-day injured list July 19, leaving him ineligible to return until late August. He has a 4.11 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 21 strikeouts, and eight saves in 15 1/3 innings over 17 appearances. Resuming throwing is a meaningful step, though no timetable has been announced for mound work or a rehab assignment. He remains a stash in leagues with IL space.

Jul 31 · Source via

Closers Baltimore Orioles Ryan Helsley

Griffin Jax Is Too Good to Leave on the Waiver Wire

Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Griffin Jax has settled into a full-time rotation role and now owns a 3.74 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, and 92 strikeouts across 86 2/3 innings. He struck out 10 Texas Rangers while allowing one earned run on five hits and three walks over 5 2/3 innings Tuesday, although Tampa Bay's quiet offense left him with the loss in a 4-1 game. The occasional blowup remains the concern, most recently when Boston tagged Jax for seven runs on July 17. His strikeout ability, stable workload, and SP/RP eligibility still make that risk worth accepting. RotoBaller's Week 18 rankings had Jax on 53% of Yahoo rosters and placed him 20th overall with an add recommendation for leagues of 10 teams or deeper. He is too valuable to remain available at that league depth.

Jul 31 · Source via

Brewers, Pirates Among Teams Interested In Luke Weaver

The Brewers and Pirates are among the many clubs who've shown interest in Mets right-hander Luke Weaver, per Will Sammon and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. Strong interest in Weaver should come as no surprise with the Mets entering the deadline as sellers and the veteran righty enjoying a dominant season. ESPN's Jeff Passan suggested [...]

Jul 31 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers New York Mets Milwaukee Brewers Pittsburgh Pirates Luke Weaver

Gregory Soto Sees Fantasy Value Drop Following Another Loss

It's becoming harder to recommend holding Pittsburgh Pirates left-handed reliever Gregory Soto after he took a loss on Thursday against the division-rival Cincinnati Reds. Soto entered a tied ballgame at 2-2 in the ninth inning and allowed the winning run on a hit, two walks, and a strikeout in two-thirds of an inning to lose his third game of the year. Despite the loss, the 31-year-old veteran southpaw did come into his appearance on Thursday in Cincinnati with seven straight scoreless outings, which included two saves with seven strikeouts and two walks. Despite being up and down all year, the Dominican reliever has been Pittsburgh's most consistent source of saves. Soto now sits at 5-3 with a 3.77 ERA (3.76 FIP), a 1.08 WHIP, 13 saves, 52 strikeouts, and 20 walks in 45 1/3 innings out of the bullpen. The leash is going to be short with Soto, and if more struggles follow, Mason Montgomery could begin to see more save opportunities in the Steel City. Soto is currently rostered in only 36% of Yahoo leagues.

Jul 31 · Source via

Closers Pittsburgh Pirates Gregory Soto

Luke Weaver Remains a High-End Waiver-Wire Stash Option

New York Mets right-hander Luke Weaver has been one of the better relief pitchers in baseball so far this season, recording a 1.88 ERA, 0.84 WHIP, 44 strikeouts, 15 holds, and one save across 43 innings (41 games). The Mets have deployed Weaver in a setup role in front of veteran closer Devin Williams for the majority of 2026. However, Williams has struggled to a 4.29 ERA and 1.60 WHIP across 35 2/3 innings on the year. Additionally, with the Mets out of contention, both Weaver and Williams could be candidates to be moved at the upcoming trade deadline. Rival teams could view Weaver as a viable closer, as he logged 12 saves across two seasons with the New York Yankees in 2024 and 2025. Whether he stays with the Mets or gets traded, Weaver could have a path to saves in the final few months of the season and profiles as a worthy waiver wire stash candidate.

Jul 30 · Source via

Closers New York Mets Luke Weaver

Brewers Targeting Mason Miller at the Trade Deadline?

The Milwaukee Brewers "love the idea" of adding San Diego Padres closer Mason Miller to their already potent bullpen, according to Jeff Passan of ESPN. Miller has been the best closer in baseball so far this season, recording a 0.79 ERA and 0.79 WHIP with 85 strikeouts and 28 saves across 45 2/3 innings (44 games). The 27-year-old is averaging 101.3 miles per hour on his fastball and has struck out a ridiculous 49.4% of the batters he's faced in 2026. Milwaukee has gotten solid work in the ninth inning from right-hander Trevor Megill, who has recorded a 2.97 ERA and 17 saves across 39 1/3 innings. However, adding Miller would clearly heighten what is already one of the team's strengths. Fantasy managers should be aware that if Miller is moved to Milwaukee or elsewhere, he could push an incumbent closer like Megill out of the ninth inning.

Jul 30 · Source via

Closers San Diego Padres Mason Miller

Jacob Webb an Attractive Flier in Cubs Closer Committee

The Chicago Cubs are using a closer-by-committee situation right now with regular closer Daniel Palencia (elbow) still on the injured list, which is a frustrating situation for fantasy managers. After Trent Thornton's blown save on Wednesday against the St. Louis Cardinals, right-hander Jacob Webb might be the most enticing deep-league source for saves right now. The 32-year-old veteran has gone 3-2 in his first year with Chicago, with a 2.72 ERA (3.52 FIP), 1.27 WHIP, a career-high five saves, and a 55:17 K:BB in his 46 1/3 innings out of the bullpen. He hasn't had a save since July 12 against the Cincinnati Reds, but Webb also has not allowed a run in his 10 innings of work in 10 July appearances while walking three, striking out 10, saving three games, and picking up two holds for the Cubbies. Caleb Thielbar is the other real threat for save opportunities in Chicago's bullpen, but with the way Webb has pitched of late, he should get more chances soon enough. Webb is rostered in only 15% of Yahoo leagues right now.

Jul 30 · Source via

Closers Chicago Cubs Jacob Webb

Bryan Abreu Continues to See Fantasy Value Increase Amid Impressive Stretch

Houston Astros right-handed reliever Bryan Abreu got off to a rough start to the 2026 campaign when Josh Hader was still on the injured list, but he has been locked in of late and could be a waiver-wire consideration in deeper fantasy leagues. In the team's 7-4 win over the division-rival Los Angeles Angels on Wednesday, Abreu pitched 1 1/3 shutout innings with no hits allowed, no walks, and a strikeout to pick up his seventh save of the year. The 29-year-old Dominican hurler is 2-3 on the year with a still elevated 4.74 ERA (5.43 FIP) and 1.50 WHIP with 48 strikeouts and 28 walks in 38 innings out of the bullpen. This was Abreu's second save since the All-Star break, but he was only in there because Hader had pitched in four of the previous five days. Still, Abreu has been much better in July, allowing just two earned runs with three walks and 14 strikeouts in 11 innings pitched, and he will definitely be an asset in holds leagues if he continues to pitch like this. Abreu is rostered in 18% of Yahoo leagues.

Jul 30 · Source via

Closers Houston Astros Bryan Abreu

Griffin Jax Punches Out a Season-High 10 Batters in Loss to Rangers

Tampa Bay Rays right-hander Griffin Jax may have taken a loss on Tuesday against the Texas Rangers, but the 31-year-old former reliever was still dominant for fantasy managers. Jax allowed two runs (one earned) on five hits while walking three and striking out a season-high 10 hitters in 5 2/3 innings pitched for his eighth loss of the year in the 4-1 defeat at Tropicana Field. The 31-year-old reliever turned starter is now sporting a 3.74 ERA and 1.23 WHIP with a 92:30 K:BB in his 86 2/3 innings pitched in his sixth major-league season (first full year in Tampa). Jax blew his first two save chances to open the 2026 campaign as the Rays' primary closing option, and Tampa eventually moved him to the starting rotation, where he's been more valuable in fantasy baseball. Since joining the rotation on April 26, Jax has gone 5-5 with a 3.38 ERA (3.83 FIP) with 72 strikeouts and 20 walks in 72 innings across 16 starts. He allowed a season-high seven earned runs in five innings against the Boston Red Sox on July 17, but since then, he's given up just two earned runs with two walks and 15 K's in two starts versus the Rangers and Toronto Blue Jays.

Jul 28 · Source via

Blue Jays' Yimi Garcia Getting Checked For Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Blue Jays right-hander Yimi Garcia has had a long road back from elbow surgery. That road may be taking another turn, as the club is sending him for evaluation regarding thoracic outlet syndrome, per Shi Davidi of Sportsnet. The reliever has been dealing with neck discomfort on his rehab assignment. It's been more than a year [...]

Jul 28 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Toronto Blue Jays Yimi Garcia

Tanner Scott Still a Deep-League Waiver-Wire Target Despite Likely Role Shift?

Los Angeles Dodgers left-hander Tanner Scott has put together an excellent season so far in 2026, pitching to a 2.32 ERA and 0.80 WHIP with 55 strikeouts and 16 saves across 42 2/3 innings (45 games). The 32-year-old took over as the primary closer in Los Angeles early in the season when Dodgers right-hander Edwin Diaz (elbow) landed on the injured list due to elbow surgery. Diaz is scheduled to return from the IL on Wednesday, which could render Scott no longer a useful source of saves for fantasy managers. However, Diaz recorded a 10.50 ERA across seven games before getting hurt and is now attempting to jump back into a pennant race following a major elbow injury. Even if Diaz returns to his usual full-time closer role, Scott should remain an excellent source of ratios and could pick up an occasional save. In deeper fantasy leagues, Scott may still have utility as a waiver wire pickup.

Jul 27 · Source via

Raisel Iglesias Charged With Blown Save as Struggles Linger

Atlanta Braves right-handed closer Raisel Iglesias continued to struggle on Sunday in the team's 3-2 extra-inning win over the hosting Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards and was charged with his second blown save of the season. In his inning of work, Iglesias allowed an unearned run with a walk and a strikeout. The blown save was aided by an error from second baseman Ozzie Albies, but this was Iglesias' second blown save in his last eight outings after he locked down his first 17 save chances of the year. The 36-year-old veteran from Cuba is 0-2 on the season with a 2.43 ERA (2.84 FIP), 1.08 WHIP, 21 saves, 43 strikeouts, and eight walks in 37 relief innings in 2026 in his 12th year in the big leagues. Iglesias definitely hasn't been as sharp in 9 2/3 innings in 10 outings in July, allowing seven runs (six earned) on 10 hits (three homers) while walking two and striking out 13, but he probably isn't in any imminent danger of being demoted from the closer role, especially with top setup man Robert Suarez (elbow) currently on the injured list.

Jul 27 · Source via

Closers Atlanta Braves Raisel Iglesias

Daniel Palencia Throws Successful Bullpen on Saturday, on Track to Begin Rehab Assignment in Early August

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell said that right-hander Daniel Palencia (elbow) had a "great" bullpen on Saturday and will throw another bullpen on Tuesday, per Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune. Montemurro notes that the Cubs' current timeline for Palencia puts him on track to begin a rehab assignment the week of August 3. The 26-year-old has been sidelined since mid-June due to a flexor strain. Across 16 2/3 innings (19 games) before the injury, Palencia recorded a 2.70 ERA and 1.38 WHIP with 19 strikeouts and three saves. The Cubs have taken a committee approach to the ninth inning in Palencia's absence, but Palencia could re-assume the team's primary closer role upon his return. In leagues where Palencia is available on the waiver wire, he profiles as a priority stash candidate ahead of a potential mid-August return.

Jul 26 · Source via

Twins Reinstate Connor Prielipp, Cole Sands; Place Mike Paredes On IL

The Twins have activated left-hander Connor Prielipp and righty Cole Sands off the 15-day injured list, according to Aaron Gleeman of AaronGleeman.com. In corresponding moves, they've optioned Jack Anderson to Triple-A St. Paul and placed Mike Paredes on the 15-day IL with an oblique strain. Prielipp went down with a left middle finger blister on [...]

Jul 26 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Minnesota Twins Mike Paredes Connor Prielipp Cole Sands

Andrew Kittredge Takes Loss on Friday, Sees Value Fall in Baltimore Committee

Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Andrew Kittredge took the loss in Friday's 7-6 defeat to the Atlanta Braves, allowing four unearned runs on two hits over two-thirds of the 10th inning. A throwing error by Jackson Holliday brought home the go-ahead run before Kittredge recorded two strikeouts, but Matt Olson followed with a three-run homer. Because all four runs were unearned, Kittredge's ERA dropped from 3.86 to 3.77. The larger fantasy concern came one inning earlier, when Tyler Wells worked a scoreless ninth with two strikeouts in a tied game. Wells ranks 53rd in RotoBaller's weekend waiver rankings with a 12-team recommendation, while Kittredge was left off the list after carrying a 15-team tag at midweek. Nearly every Yahoo waiver wire still has Kittredge available, with his roster rate at 6%. He remains worth monitoring in deep saves leagues, but Friday's usage pushed him further behind Wells and removed any urgency in standard formats.

Jul 25 · Source via

Jordan Romano Earns Another Save, Enters Priority Waiver-Wire Territory

Colorado Rockies relief pitcher Jordan Romano worked around two leadoff singles to close out Friday's 5-2 win over the Milwaukee Brewers, retiring the next three hitters to earn his eighth save. Romano allowed two hits and struck out one in the scoreless inning. It was his fourth save in as many chances since joining Colorado's bullpen, where he has surrendered one earned run with nine strikeouts over 6 2/3 innings. Colorado has not formally named a closer, but Romano is getting the opportunities that matter. Each of his seven appearances for the club has come in the ninth inning, and he has converted every save chance. His 10.13 ERA with the Los Angeles Angels earlier this season remains a warning, especially after he allowed two baserunners Friday. Still, 94% of Yahoo leagues have left Romano on the waiver wire. He is a priority saves pickup in 12-team leagues and deeper and a viable target in competitive 10-team formats.

Jul 25 · Source via

Edwin Diaz Won't be Activated This Weekend

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed on Friday that right-handed closer Edwin Diaz (elbow) will not be activated from the 60-day injured list for this weekend's series against his former team, the New York Mets, according to Jack Harris of The California Post. Diaz will make one more minor-league rehab outing on Sunday at Triple-A Oklahoma City before coming off the IL next week. It looks like the hard-throwing Puerto Rican will make his return against another one of his former teams, the Seattle Mariners, early next week at Dodger Stadium. Diaz has looked good in his five rehab innings, allowing just one run while striking out nine batters. The three-time All-Star could not have gotten off to a worse start earlier in 2026 to begin his Dodgers tenure, posting an ERA over 10.00 with four saves in just six innings before needing surgery to remove loose bodies in his right elbow. But now that Diaz is on the verge of a return, he should immediately be scooped up anywhere he's available as the Dodgers' primary closer.

Jul 24 · Source via

Griffin Jax Is Back on Track as a Mixed-League Rotation Add

Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Griffin Jax bounced back from a rough outing with six strong innings against Toronto on Wednesday, July 22. He allowed one run on three hits and one walk, struck out five, and earned his sixth win. Jax had been tagged for seven earned runs by Boston in his previous start, but the response brought his season line to a 3.89 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, and 82 strikeouts over 81 innings. The move from the bullpen has stuck, with Jax now up to 16 starts in 27 appearances. He also carries SP/RP eligibility, making those innings easier to fit into fantasy lineups. Jax appears on 53% of Yahoo rosters, while RotoBaller ranks him as a 10-team addition. One blowup should not erase the larger body of work. Jax should not remain available in competitive mixed leagues.

Jul 24 · Source via

Ben Joyce a Sneaky Stash for Late-Season Saves

The Los Angeles Angels announced on Thursday that right-handed reliever Ben Joyce (shoulder) is moving his minor-league rehab assignment to Triple-A Salt Lake. Joyce, a third-rounder in 2022 out of the University of Tennessee, has been on the injured list all year due to a right-shoulder injury, but he has appeared in eight minor-league rehab games in the rookie-level Arizona Complex League and at Single-A Rancho Cucamonga, and he appears to be nearing his 2026 debut with the Halos. The 25-year-old can hit triple digits with his fastball and has the stuff to settle in as the team's primary closing option down the stretch, especially when considering the last-place Angels are currently rolling with a closer-by-committee situation involving Ryan Zeferjahn, Sam Bachman, and Kirby Yates. Of course, the Angels aren't the best bullpen to target for fantasy purposes, but fantasy managers who are desperate for saves should have Joyce on their watch radar as he nears the end of his rehab assignment. Joyce is currently rostered in 3% of Yahoo leagues.

Jul 23 · Source via

Pirates Designate Dennis Santana for Assignment

The Pittsburgh Pirates designated right-handed reliever Dennis Santana for assignment on Thursday to make room for right-handed reliever Ron Marinaccio, who was acquired in a minor trade from the San Diego Padres in exchange for international signing bonus pool considerations, according to MLB.com's Alex Stumpf. Santana was an option for saves in the Pirates' bullpen earlier this season, but he has struggled mightily, going 2-5 with a 6.05 ERA (5.48 FIP), a 1.51 WHIP, two saves, 37 strikeouts, and 21 walks in 41 2/3 relief innings in 2026 in his second full season in Pittsburgh. The 30-year-old Dominican hurler has had a really rough month of July, allowing 10 earned runs on 12 hits (four homers) while walking two and striking out seven for two losses and a hold in 7 1/3 innings across eight appearances out of the bullpen. Santana will most likely clear waivers because of his $3.7 million salary, at which point he could refuse an outright assignment and become a free agent.

Jul 23 · Source via

Closers Pittsburgh Pirates Dennis Santana

Andrew Kittredge Remains a Deep-League Waiver-Wire Target

Across 28 innings (32 games) in 2026, Baltimore Orioles right-hander Andrew Kittredge has recorded a 3.86 ERA, 1.29 WHIP, 25 strikeouts, and three saves. While the 36-year-old's overall line and his 20.7% strikeout rate are both middling, Kittredge has emerged as a ninth-inning option in Baltimore in recent weeks, with Orioles closer Ryan Helsley (elbow) currently on the 60-day injured list due to an elbow injury. Baltimore has also given save chances to right-hander Tyler Wells, who has pitched to a 2.94 ERA with a 20.6% K-BB rate so far this season. Still, dating back to June 24, Kittredge has now logged 11 consecutive appearances without allowing an earned run. Kittredge may not see every save chance for Baltimore the rest of the way, but he still profiles as a worthwhile waiver wire target in deeper league formats.

Jul 23 · Source via

Luke Weaver a Top Closer Handcuff to Stash

New York Mets right-hander Luke Weaver has arguably been his team's top reliever in 2026, recording a 1.98 ERA and 0.80 WHIP with 43 strikeouts, 14 holds, two wins, and one save across 41 innings (39 games). The 32-year-old owns a stellar 20.4% K-BB rate, and opposing batters are hitting just .152 against him. Weaver's path to saves with the Mets is currently blocked off by established closer Devin Williams. However, Williams has struggled to a 4.54 ERA this season and has allowed four earned runs across his first 5 1/3 innings pitched in July. The Mets may also be looking to move Williams at the upcoming trade deadline if they can find an interested buyer. If Williams is removed from New York's closer role for either reason, Weaver profiles as a logical choice to assume the job. He has experience in the ninth inning, recording eight saves as a member of the New York Yankees in 2025. Particularly in deeper leagues, Weaver could be worth stashing off the waiver wire.

Jul 23 · Source via

Closers New York Mets Luke Weaver

Gregory Soto Tallies 13th Save, Re-Emerging as Name to Roster in Pittsburgh Bullpen

Pittsburgh Pirates left-hander Gregory Soto picked up his 13th save of the season on Wednesday, throwing a scoreless 10th inning with a strikeout in his team's 5-3 extra-inning win over the New York Yankees. Soto had a rough month in June, allowing 11 earned runs across 7 1/3 innings. However, the 31-year-old has bounced back in July, pitching to a 1.35 ERA with six strikeouts and two saves across his first 6 2/3 innings this month. The 31-year-old's underlying metrics for the year remain strong, as he's averaging 97.2 miles per hour on his fastball and owns a 27.6% strikeout rate. With his recent rough patch now seemingly in the rearview mirror, Soto once again looks like the closer to roster in Pittsburgh.

Jul 23 · Source via

Closers Pittsburgh Pirates Gregory Soto

Royals Designate Kameron Misner For Assignment

The Royals announced Wednesday that outfielder Kameron Misner has been designated for assignment. His spot on the 40-man roster will go to righty Nate Pearson, whose previously reported acquisition from the Astros has now been confirmed by the team. More to come.

Jul 22 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Kansas City Royals Kameron Misner

Astros Trade Nate Pearson To Royals

10:47am: The Royals have announced the trade. 10:22am: The Royals are acquiring right-hander Nate Pearson in a trade with the Astros, reports Chandler Rome of The Athletic. Minor league righty Max Martin is headed back to the Astros in the deal, per Anne Rogers of MLB.com. Houston had designated Pearson for assignment over the weekend. [...]

Jul 22 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Houston Astros Kansas City Royals Nate Pearson

Jacob Webb Remains the Closer to Roster in Chicago

Across 43 1/3 innings (44 games) in 2026, Chicago Cubs right-hander Jacob Webb has recorded a 3-2 record with a 2.91 ERA, 1.32 WHIP, 50 strikeouts, and five saves. The 32-year-old has begun to emerge as Chicago's preferred ninth-inning option in July, logging three saves across seven outings so far this month. Cubs closer Daniel Palencia (elbow) is expected to return from his current elbow injury in mid-August, so Webb's fantasy value as a source of saves could be relatively short-lived. Still, he's performed well in the role so far, and his 27% strikeout rate backs up his strong results. For fantasy managers in need of a short-term saves solution, Webb profiles as a priority waiver wire target.

Jul 22 · Source via

Closers Chicago Cubs Jacob Webb

Edwin Diaz More Likely to Return Next Week

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said it's "possible" that right-handed closer Edwin Diaz (elbow) returns from the 60-day injured list this weekend, but the skipper also downplayed Diaz flying to the East Coast for just one series, according to David Vassegh of 570 LA Sports. It sounds like Diaz won't make his return against his old team, the New York Mets, this weekend, but rather early next week back in L.A. for a series against one of his other former teams, the Seattle Mariners. The hard-throwing right-handed reliever has been out since late April after having surgery to remove loose bodies from his right elbow. While the Dodgers could ease him back into save situations late in games upon his return, they are fully expected to make him their primary closer sooner rather than later, so he should be scooped up off the waiver wire immediately if he's still available in any fantasy leagues. In his four minor-league rehab outings, Diaz has thrown four scoreless innings with seven strikeouts and just one walk. Left-hander Tanner Scott's fantasy stock is about to take a pretty big hit when Diaz returns.

Jul 22 · Source via

Jordan Romano Emerging as Closer to Roster in Colorado

Colorado Rockies right-hander Jordan Romano picked up his seventh save of the season on Tuesday night, pitching a scoreless ninth inning with two strikeouts in his team's 8-7 win over the Washington Nationals. Romano opened the 2026 season with the Los Angeles Angels and got off to a brutal start, recording a 10.13 ERA across eight innings (11 games). However, the 33-year-old has been significantly better since catching on with the Rockies, posting a 1.59 ERA with eight strikeouts and three saves across 5 2/3 innings (six games). Romano has appeared in the ninth inning in all six of his outings with Colorado, recording saves in three out of his last five appearances. For fantasy managers in need of saves, Romano profiles as an obvious waiver wire target.

Jul 22 · Source via

Nationals Designate Justin Lawrence For Assignment

The Nationals announced that right-hander Eddy Yean has been recalled from Triple-A Rochester. Fellow righty Justin Lawrence has been designated for assignment as the corresponding move. The Nats claimed Lawrence off waivers just under a month ago. Since then, he has made seven appearances, allowing three earned runs in 6 1/3 innings. That gives him [...]

Jul 21 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Washington Nationals Justin Lawrence

Padres Considering Trading Mason Miller

ESPN's Jeff Passan writes that the San Diego Padres are considering trading right-handed closer Mason Miller, less than a year after giving up one of the top prospects in baseball in shortstop Leo De Vries, to acquire him. The Padres would love to attach shortstop Xander Bogaerts' contract to any trade, which would severely limit the return for Miller, but Passan doesn't think any team will want to take Bogaerts. There will be plenty of teams in on Miller if SD is serious about moving him since the flamethrowing righty is a game-changer in the ninth inning. Passan lists the New York Yankees, Seattle Mariners, Philadelphia Phillies, Milwaukee Brewers, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Tampa Bay Rays as the best fits if Miller is actually dealt. If the Padres don't turn things around soon -- they sit 13.5 games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League West and 2.5 games out of the final NL wild-card spot with four teams in front of them -- Miller could be an ex-Padre by Aug. 3. Miller has been one of the most dominant relievers of all time in 2026, sporting a 101.3 mph fastball with a nasty slider that have helped him generate an absurd 48.4% strikeout rate in his 40 2/3 innings this year.

Jul 21 · Source via

Closers San Diego Padres Mason Miller

Edwin Diaz Could Return to Dodgers Bullpen This Weekend

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts didn't rule out right-handed closer Edwin Diaz (elbow) being activated from the 60-day injured list for the upcoming weekend series against the New York Mets, according to David Vassegh of 570 LA Sports. Diaz has been away from the big-league team since having surgery in late April to remove loose bodies from his right elbow. The 32-year-old veteran and three-time All-Star is nearing a return from the IL, though, and has struck out seven and walked one in four shutout innings in his four minor-league rehab appearances. The Dodgers most likely want to see the Puerto Rican hurler pitch on back-to-back days before they have him rejoin their big-league bullpen. Left-hander Tanner Scott has done a commendable job filling in as L.A.'s primary ninth-inning option for Roberts with Diaz out for most of the first half of the season, but he will most likely go back to a late-inning setup role when Diaz returns. Diaz allowed seven earned runs in his first six innings with the Blue before going under the knife, but he deserves to be rostered in all fantasy leagues as the primary closer for the best team in baseball.

Jul 20 · Source via

Tanner Scott's Waiver Appeal Could be Coming to an End Soon

Los Angeles Dodgers left-handed reliever Tanner Scott has bounced back nicely in 2026 in his second year with the club after a disastrous first season in which he had a 4.74 ERA and 1.26 WHIP with 60 strikeouts and 18 walks in 57 regular-season innings on his way to 23 saves for the Dodgers. Scott has gone 1-3 this year, but he's been much better with a 2.50 ERA (2.29 FIP), 0.76 WHIP, 14 saves, 51 strikeouts, and only five walks in 39 2/3 innings pitched out of the bullpen. Although he's still only rostered in 54% of Yahoo leagues, he's been a nice pickup for those who scooped him up after Edwin Diaz (elbow) landed on the injured list early on. Since June 11, Scott has allowed just three earned runs with two walks, 19 strikeouts, eight saves, one blown save, and a hold for L.A. He should continue to be a valuable late-inning option for the Dodgers the rest of the way, but with Diaz nearing a return from elbow surgery, save opportunities for Scott figure to dry up sooner rather than later. There's still value to be had from Scott's career-best 34.7% strikeout rate, and more holds should be coming his way.

Jul 20 · Source via