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.

Aroldis Chapman has officially signed a one-year contract worth $10.75 million with the Boston Red Sox, pending a physical. This move comes as the Red Sox seek to bolster their bullpen after losing key relievers Kenley Jansen and Chris Martin.

Chapman, a seasoned left-handed reliever, had a solid 2024 season with the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he recorded 14 saves. His experience and past success, including a World Series title with the Chicago Cubs, could make him a valuable asset for Boston's pitching staff.

The Pittsburgh Pirates face pressing needs this offseason, particularly in bolstering their bullpen, which ranked poorly in ERA and had numerous blown saves. Closer David Bednar struggled significantly, raising concerns about his performance moving forward.

MLB analyst Mark Feinsand suggested that the Pirates should consider signing Texas Rangers reliever José Leclerc, who has a solid track record and could provide necessary support. Improving the bullpen is essential for the Pirates to enhance their competitiveness in the upcoming season.

The conclusion of the regular season prompts a review of relief pitchers who underperformed relative to their draft positions. Key players like Edwin Diaz of the New York Mets and Camilo Doval of the San Francisco Giants faced significant struggles, with injuries and poor performance impacting their seasons.

Other notable mentions include Alexis Diaz from the Cincinnati Reds, David Bednar of the Pittsburgh Pirates, and Jordan Romano from the Toronto Blue Jays, all of whom had disappointing years despite high expectations.

The Pittsburgh Pirates are ranked 20th by ESPN's David Schoenfield as they look ahead to the 2025 MLB season, following a World Series win by the Los Angeles Dodgers. The ranking reflects optimism about their starting rotation, particularly with the potential of Paul Skenes and top prospect Bubba Chandler.

Despite this, the Pirates face challenges, including a struggling offense and a need for bullpen improvements. Tight budget constraints may hinder their ability to make significant upgrades.