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MLB Playoffs: The most important player on each team

By Pete Schauer

August 22, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout (27) bats during the eighth inning against the Oakland Athletics at O.co Coliseum. The Athletics defeated the Angels 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
August 22, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout (27) bats during the eighth inning against the Oakland Athletics at O.co Coliseum. The Athletics defeated the Angels 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 23, 2014; Bronx, NY, USA; Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Zach Britton (53) celebrates with catcher Nick Hundley (40) after defeating the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. The Orioles defeated the Yankees 5-4. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 23, 2014; Bronx, NY, USA; Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Zach Britton (53) celebrates with catcher Nick Hundley (40) after defeating the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. The Orioles defeated the Yankees 5-4. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

Baltimore Orioles: Zach Britton

We know the Baltimore Orioles have the offense to do some damage in October, but their starting staff isn’t going to wow anyone, which is why Zach Britton’s role as the closer is so crucial to their success.

Britton has been one of the best closers in baseball in 2014. While his 37 saves rank outside of the top 10 in the league, his 1.65 ERA ranks fourth among relievers with at least 30 saves this season.

To go with that impressive ERA, Britton owns a 0.90 WHIP and also boasts seven holds, so he knows how to keep Baltimore in the game and secure the victory.

The Orioles’ starting staff ranked 20th in terms of innings pitched for starters during the regular season, meaning that their postseason success hinges on their bullpen, and ultimately, Britton’s performance in the ninth.

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