3 Fantasy Baseball Closers to Draft (2026)

Discover which five closers are worth targeting in 2026 fantasy baseball drafts, such as Lucas Erceg and Griffin Jax.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:03am

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Fantasy baseball gamers can find saves throughout the draft. The top closers who will likely pile up saves and move the needle in ERA, WHIP and strikeouts cost a pretty penny in drafts. However, there are several middle-tier and late-round closer options worth targeting, including Dennis Santana, Griffin Jax, and Lucas Erceg.

Why it matters

Finding reliable closers who can rack up saves is crucial for fantasy baseball success, but the top options come at a premium draft cost. Identifying undervalued middle-tier and late-round closer targets can provide a significant boost to your fantasy team's bullpen.

The details

Dennis Santana has been a revelation for the Pirates, posting a 2.28 ERA, 0.89 WHIP, and 24.9% strikeout rate over the past two seasons. He's projected for 24 saves in 2026. Griffin Jax of the Rays has elite strikeout stuff and could take over the closer role, while Carlos Estevez of the Royals saved a league-high 42 games in 2025 but has some underlying concerns. Lucas Erceg is waiting in the wings if Estevez falters.

  • Santana has logged 109 relief appearances and 114.2 innings with the Pirates since June 2024.
  • Jax had 10 saves in 2024, four in 2023, and one in 2022.
  • Estevez saved an MLB-high 42 games in 2025.

The players

Dennis Santana

A reliever for the Pittsburgh Pirates who has posted strong numbers since joining the team in 2024, including a 2.28 ERA, 0.89 WHIP, and 24.9% strikeout rate.

Griffin Jax

A pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays who has shown the ability to rack up saves in the past, with 10 saves in 2024, four in 2023, and one in 2022.

Carlos Estevez

The incumbent closer for the Kansas City Royals, who saved an MLB-high 42 games in 2025 but has some underlying concerns with his profile.

Lucas Erceg

A reliever for the Royals who could take over the closer role if Estevez struggles, as he posted a 2.64 ERA in 2025.

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The takeaway

Finding reliable closers who can rack up saves is crucial for fantasy baseball success, but the top options come at a premium draft cost. Identifying undervalued middle-tier and late-round closer targets like Dennis Santana, Griffin Jax, and Lucas Erceg can provide a significant boost to your fantasy team's bullpen without breaking the bank.