As fantasy baseball drafts heat up, the debate over when to target closers intensifies. Securing a top option in the early rounds is critical, as the quest for at least 60 saves begins. Closers not only contribute saves but also impact ratio and strikeout categories, making their selection pivotal for fantasy success. A clear understanding of your league format and competitors can shape your draft strategy significantly.

Five must-have closers for the upcoming season include Felix Bautista from the Baltimore Orioles, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery but boasts impressive 2023 numbers. Lucas Erceg of the Kansas City Royals has the skill set to become a top-10 closer despite a shaky start. Trevor Megill, stepping into a more pivotal role with the Milwaukee Brewers, is expected to secure 25+ saves. David Bednar from the Pittsburgh Pirates looks to bounce back from an injury-plagued 2024, and Seth Halvorsen from the Colorado Rockies could defy traditional thoughts about Rockies pitchers with breakout potential in 2025.

In the competitive landscape of fantasy baseball drafts for 2025, targeting mid-round closers can be pivotal. Players like Trevor Megill of the Milwaukee Brewers showcased their potential in 2024, accumulating 21 saves with an impressive ERA and WHIP. Meanwhile, Jhoan Duran of the Minnesota Twins is positioned as a top high-leverage option, expected to secure over 25 saves despite stiff competition from his bullpen mates. Ryan Walker from the San Francisco Giants emerged as a standout with a remarkable season, but uncertainty about his role remains. With Kenley Jansen joining the Los Angeles Angels, he adds veteran stability to their ninth inning. Finally, Andres Munoz offers elite closer potential for the Seattle Mariners, although his injury history warrants caution. Each of these pitchers presents distinct value in mid-round drafts, making them essential considerations for fantasy managers looking to bolster their rosters.

The New York Yankees are set to acquire closer Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers in a significant trade, sending Nestor Cortes and prospect Caleb Durbin to Milwaukee.

Williams, a standout reliever with a career 1.83 ERA and 68 saves, is known for his exceptional change-up and impressive strikeout rates. Despite a back injury in 2024, he remains a top fantasy option.

Cortes will bolster the Brewers' rotation, while Durbin shows promise as a speedy infielder.

The New York Yankees have made a significant move by acquiring reliever Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers. In exchange, the Brewers receive pitcher Nestor Cortes Jr., infield prospect Caleb Durbin, and some cash.

Williams, a two-time NL All-Star, had a solid season despite missing the first three months due to injury, recording 14 saves. The Yankees aim to strengthen their bullpen while the Brewers look to reallocate resources for their rotation.

The Milwaukee Brewers secured the NL Central title in 2024, finishing with a 93-69 record. Despite losing key players like Corbin Burnes and Brandon Woodruff, the team excelled with strong performances from pitchers such as Tobias Myers and Colin Rea, and a stellar bullpen.

Offensively, Willy Adames and rookie Jackson Chourio shined, contributing significantly to the team's success. However, injuries to Christian Yelich and underwhelming production from Rhys Hoskins raised concerns for the future.

As they look ahead, the Brewers face key decisions regarding free agents and their starting rotation, while aiming to build on their promising foundation.