Fantasy baseball analyst Dalton Del Don scans for save sources and provides updates on evolving bullpen situations.
Arizona Diamondbacks
Shelby Miller has recorded the last two saves for the Arizona Diamondbacks, showcasing his capability in high-pressure situations. Meanwhile, Kevin Ginkel has made only one appearance since he experienced a rough outing, allowing five runs last week. Miller, who is currently **27% rostered**, has posted impressive statistics, including an **18.4 K-BB%** and a **3.19 SIERA**. Given these performances, he appears to be the current favorite for saves within Arizona’s bullpen.
On the other hand, Justin Martinez (rostered at **55%**) is expected to throw live batting practice this week, putting him ahead of A.J. Puk (24%) in their rehabilitation progress. Martinez likely will reclaim closing duties if he remains healthy, but for now, he’s a question mark. Notably, Arizona has generated **23 save opportunities** this season, ranking just behind the Dodgers.
Atlanta Braves
Raisel Iglesias has recently struggled with a **5.71 ERA**, although his **2.93 SIERA** points toward potential improvement. His **20.8 K-BB%** remains consistent with last season’s numbers, where he finished strong with a **1.95 ERA**. Indicatively, Iglesias’ **30.0 HR/FB%** ranks as the fifth-highest among qualified relievers. Despite this, his average exit velocity has dropped into the **bottom 20%** of the league, a stark contrast from his previous ranking in the top 3%. The decline in his velocity to **94.8 mph** could hint at him becoming increasingly hittable at age 35, although a return to form seems more probable.
Iglesias’ job security appears tenuous after a series of shaky outings, with Pierce Johnson recording a save on a night when Iglesias wasn’t available. However, Iglesias redeemed himself by securing a save on Thursday, regaining some confidence from management.
Chicago Cubs
Ryan Pressly has seen limited action lately, having pitched only **1.1 innings** over the last nine days following a disastrous outing where he gave up eight earned runs without a single out. Pressly hasn’t recorded a save since April 13. Lefty Drew Pomeranz held down the closing duties for the Cubs in recent games, although Porter Hodge (15%) appeared unavailable due to back-to-back appearances. Despite a **5.40 ERA** and **1.53 WHIP**, Hodge seems to be favored for saves moving forward, although the Cubs may seek a trade to solidify their closer position.
Miami Marlins
Jesús Tinoco has quietly taken control of the closer’s role for the Miami Marlins over the past month. Calvin Faucher has not recorded a save since April, while Tinoco has successfully converted every save opportunity since then, which includes two wins and a save over the last ten days. Despite the limited opportunities that the Marlins generally provide, Tinoco’s performance has made him a reliable option, and he remains available in **96% of Yahoo leagues**.
New York Yankees
Luke Weaver (61%) has emerged as the frontrunner for saves within the New York Yankees, making him highly relevant for fantasy managers. Conversely, Devin Williams has turned in three consecutive scoreless appearances but remains **84% rostered**. He should be stashed for the time being despite the Yankees’ likely plans to revert to him in the near future.
Philadelphia Phillies
José Alvarado’s performances have been solid; however, he has registered only one save since April 19. Jordan Romano has recently been the go-to option, securing two saves while allowing no runs and posting a **0.50 WHIP** across six innings. Romano’s slow start coming off elbow surgery adds context to his recent surge. With a **3.44 SIERA**, Romano’s earlier **8.22 ERA** doesn’t illustrate his true ability. Although the Phillies plan to mix and match their closers, Romano is quickly becoming a favorite for saves in the bullpen and is available in nearly **60% of Yahoo leagues**.
Pittsburgh Pirates
Just when it seemed like David Bednar (44%) was solidifying his role as closers for the Pirates, new manager Rob Kelly has reintroduced Dennis Santana into the mix. The Pirates have recorded just one save thus far in May, resulting in a complicated fantasy situation. A potential timeshare between closers on a struggling team (currently **15-29**) makes it challenging for fantasy managers to rely on Pittsburgh’s bullpen.
Toronto Blue Jays
Jeff Hoffman’s ERA has rapidly increased from **1.10 to 6.05** in a span of five appearances, signaling alarm for fantasy managers. Despite his bloated ERA, Hoffman’s performances still feature a **33.3 K-BB%**, ranking him fourth among qualified relievers. Meanwhile, Yimi García (10%) has been effective, recording his third save in Toronto’s last game, capitalizing on Hoffman’s recent struggles. Should Hoffman continue to falter, García could become an even more significant part of the bullpen strategy.