In fantasy baseball leagues that include holds as a scoring category, making informed decisions during draft day becomes crucial. Identifying pitchers who can consistently contribute holds involves targeting teams poised for victory and having a defined closing option. Notably, holds can be secured by multiple players, as long as the entering pitcher maintains the team's lead without being the final pitcher in the game.

As the 2025 season approaches, several pitchers stand out as potential leaders in holds. Bryan Abreu of the Houston Astros, who led the league with 38 holds last season, is projected to continue his dominance. Yennier Cano from the Baltimore Orioles and Griffin Jax of the Minnesota Twins also showcase strong potential for accumulating holds this season.

Jorge Lopez, the former All-Star closer for the Baltimore Orioles, has officially signed with the Washington Nationals on a one-year contract worth $3 million, as reported by Jon Heyman. With a career spanning nine years, Lopez has showcased versatility by playing for multiple teams, including the Milwaukee Brewers, Kansas City Royals, and Minnesota Twins.

Lopez's time with the Orioles from 2020 to 2022 included a standout All-Star season as the team's closer. During his tenure, he saved 19 games in 2022, marking his most successful season. Following his trade to the Twins, the Orioles have since developed their bullpen around Felix Bautista, who also made the All-Star roster in 2023. Despite the Nationals' fourth-place finish in the National League East, Lopez may seize the opportunity to take on a closing role.

The Baltimore Orioles have kicked off their offseason by exercising team options for Ryan O’Hearn, Seranthony Domínguez, and Cionel Pérez, while surprisingly declining Danny Coulombe's option. With an eye on enhancing their roster, the team faces critical decisions regarding arbitration-eligible players and potential free agents like Anthony Santander and Corbin Burnes.

As they navigate these choices, the Orioles must address gaps in their lineup and rotation, especially at first base and right field. The return of closer Félix Bautista from injury adds depth to the bullpen, but questions remain about overall pitching strength. With new ownership under David Rubenstein, the team may be poised for significant spending to bolster their chances for a World Series run.

The 2024 MLB season concluded disappointingly for the Baltimore Orioles, who entered the postseason after a strong start but faltered in the second half. Despite a brief resurgence, they were eliminated by the Kansas City Royals, scoring only one run in two games.

The Orioles' pitching staff performed admirably, particularly during the playoffs, allowing just three runs in two losses. Corbin Burnes emerged as a standout, while Keegan Akin and Yennier Cano provided crucial support from the bullpen.