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.

Fantasy baseball often brings the chase for saves to the forefront, creating an unnecessary burden for managers. The reality is that across the league, only about 50% of total saves come from initial designated closers, with various relievers emerging as fresh solutions throughout the season. This makes it crucial to keep a watchful eye on the bullpen hierarchies, as last year's high-profile closers like Camilo Doval and Evan Phillips faced unexpected challenges. Approaching the draft, one should consider not just the elite closers, but also the hidden gems among middle relievers who can deliver strong ratios and strikeouts without the responsibility of securing saves.

As the 2025 season approaches, several key players have emerged as either promising closers or potential fades. Ryan Walker of the San Francisco Giants is drawing attention for his elite stuff and impressive stats, suggesting he could become a top-tier reliever. Conversely, Jeff Hoffman and Robert Suárez present risks due to injury concerns and team depth in their respective bullpens. The upcoming draft will test managers' ability to navigate these dynamics, balancing the need for saves with the opportunity to mine value from less heralded pitchers.

Devin Williams, the Milwaukee Brewers' All-Star closer, is now a trade candidate after the team declined his $10.5 million option for 2025. With a solid track record and a projected arbitration salary of $8-9 million, Williams is expected to bring substantial value in a trade.

Several teams, including the San Diego Padres, Los Angeles Dodgers, and New York Yankees, are potential landing spots for the talented right-hander. The Brewers are likely to seek a mix of prospects and established players in return, as they prepare for a competitive 2025 season.

The San Francisco Giants finished the 2024 season with an 80-82 record, landing them in 4th place in the NL West. Despite being ranked 19th in both ERA and OPS, the team showcased some standout performances.

Logan Webb emerged as the ace, leading the NL in innings pitched. Blake Snell had a solid season when healthy, while Ryan Walker excelled in the bullpen. On offense, Matt Chapman had a career year, earning a lucrative contract extension.

However, the team faced challenges with rotation depth and inconsistent performances from several players, including Thairo Estrada, who struggled significantly. The Giants will need to address these issues in the offseason, particularly if Snell opts out of his contract.

As the season concludes, a review of the top relief pitchers highlights their performance against draft expectations. Ryan Helsley of the St. Louis Cardinals emerged as a standout, setting a franchise record with 49 saves despite a previous injury.

Kirby Yates of the Texas Rangers, initially overlooked, proved his worth with a stellar season, saving 33 games. Robert Suarez of the San Diego Padres also had a strong start but faced challenges later in the season.

Ryan Walker from the San Francisco Giants and Mason Miller of the Oakland Athletics both showed promise, with Miller leading in strikeouts despite injury concerns. Overall, these players have reshaped expectations for the upcoming draft.