Updated Fantasy Baseball Closer Report Highlights Changes

Key bullpen situations to monitor as the 2026 MLB season approaches

Mar. 22, 2026 at 11:21am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

As the 2026 MLB season approaches, this updated fantasy baseball closer report highlights several key bullpen situations that have changed or become clearer in recent weeks. The report focuses on the closer situations for the Kansas City Royals, Texas Rangers, Los Angeles Angels, Houston Astros, and Arizona Diamondbacks.

Why it matters

Identifying the right closers is crucial for fantasy baseball managers, as saves are a highly valuable category. This report provides fantasy managers with the latest information to help them make informed decisions on which relievers to target in their drafts.

The details

In Kansas City, Carlos Estevez's decreased velocity has put his hold on the closer role in jeopardy, with Matt Strahm and Lucas Erceg as potential alternatives. The Rangers' closer situation has become clearer, with Robert Garcia the favorite over Chris Martin. The Angels' bullpen has been hit by injuries, leaving Kirby Yates as the likely closer to start the season. The Astros will be without Josh Hader to begin the year due to injury, opening the door for Bryan Abreu. And in Arizona, Paul Sewald is expected to open the season as the closer, with Kevin Ginkel in a setup role.

  • Estevez has only pitched two innings in spring training, allowing four earned runs and three home runs.
  • Diaz was recently demoted to Triple-A, removing him from the Rangers' closer competition.
  • Joyce is expected to return from injury sometime in May.
  • Hader will begin the season on the injured list due to biceps inflammation.
  • Puk is expected to return and challenge Sewald for the closer role during the regular season.

The players

Carlos Estevez

A right-handed relief pitcher for the Kansas City Royals who has struggled with decreased velocity in spring training.

Matt Strahm

A left-handed relief pitcher for the Kansas City Royals who could be an option for saves if Estevez continues to struggle.

Lucas Erceg

A right-handed relief pitcher for the Kansas City Royals who could also be in the mix for saves if Estevez falters.

Robert Garcia

A right-handed relief pitcher for the Texas Rangers who is the favorite to be the team's closer to start the season.

Chris Martin

A right-handed relief pitcher for the Texas Rangers who could also see save opportunities if Garcia struggles.

Kirby Yates

A right-handed relief pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels who is expected to be the team's closer to begin the 2026 season.

Josh Hader

A left-handed relief pitcher for the Houston Astros who will begin the season on the injured list due to biceps inflammation.

Bryan Abreu

A right-handed relief pitcher for the Houston Astros who is expected to fill in as the closer while Hader is sidelined.

Paul Sewald

A right-handed relief pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks who is expected to open the season as the team's closer.

Kevin Ginkel

A right-handed relief pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks who could challenge Sewald for the closer role during the regular season.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This updated fantasy baseball closer report highlights the fluid nature of bullpen situations, with injuries, performance, and roster moves all impacting who will be closing games for their teams. Fantasy managers will need to stay on top of these developments throughout the season to maximize their saves production.