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JB’s Fantasy Baseball Closer Strategy: What do you do now?

By Justin Buckhanan

BALTIMORE, MD - AUGUST 11: Craig Kimbrel #46 of the Boston Red Sox pitches during game two of a doubleheader against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on August 11, 2018 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MD - AUGUST 11: Craig Kimbrel #46 of the Boston Red Sox pitches during game two of a doubleheader against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on August 11, 2018 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) /
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The questions remains every year what to do with closers? Now that you’re in season, here’s a look at some serious and risky options.

Some people prioritize closer in their draft, even if that means overspending. Others dip their toe in the water by buying a cheaper option and then try to find someone during the season (yeah, you’re still waiting on Craig Kimbrel, aren’t you). Some people bypass the position and go strictly for starters to gain an advantage in wins and strikeouts in tradition roto formats, hoping to make up for essentially punting one category.

Roto format warning: I don’t advise punting a category. It’s hard to take a zero in one category and make up for it.

All of that said, the point in any draft is to always get value. So what is my strategy on closer? I’m glad you asked. Based on the extreme turnover with closers, I generally prioritize one of the studly closers early and then work the waiver wire for somebody who is in the dreaded closer-by-committee timeshare. You can get one or maybe even two pitchers who will help you accumulate saves in addition to your stud closer you have already prioritized.

That said, here’s a look at the different tiers of closers as you proceed through the season: