The world of fantasy baseball is always buzzing with excitement, especially when it comes to relief pitchers (RPs). Last season, two standout performers, Ryan Helsley of the St. Louis Cardinals and Emmanuel Clase of the Cleveland Guardians, dominated the game, each racking up over 40 saves. At first glance, it might seem like the RP position is all about these top-tier closers, but digging deeper into the 2024 stats reveals a much more encouraging picture for fantasy managers: the RP position is deeper than ever.
In 2024, no fewer than six relievers managed to tally 30 or more saves, and an impressive 14 pitchers closed out 20 or more games. This level of depth is a Fantasy Baseball paradise, offering managers a wealth of options to build a strong bullpen. While Helsley and Clase are certainly the headliners, they’re far from the only game in town. Josh Hader, now in his second season with the Houston Astros, is primed for a rebound after a solid but not spectacular 2024 campaign. Meanwhile, the electric Devin Williams, affectionately known as “The Airbender,” is set to bring his dominance to the Bronx as a member of the New York Yankees. With these names and many more in the mix, the RP position is loaded with talent and potential.
The depth of the RP pool is a double-edged sword for fantasy managers. On one hand, it’s a relief (no pun intended) to know that there are plenty of reliable options available, even after the top-tier closers are off the board. On the other hand, it makes draft strategy more critical than ever. Deciding when to invest in a proven closer versus taking a chance on a rising star or a sleeper pick becomes a key part of building a competitive roster. One thing is certain: in a position often defined by volatility, 2024’s numbers suggest that there’s more stability and value to be found than you might expect.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, the Yahoo Fantasy Baseball draft rankings for relief pitchers are shaping up to be a must-see resource for any serious fantasy manager. Helsley and Clase are naturally near the top of the list, but the real intrigue lies in how the rest of the field shakes out. Will Hader reclaim his spot among the elite, or will Williams make an immediate splash in pinstripes? How will other names, like Jordan Romano, Camilo Doval, and Alexis Díaz, fit into the mix? These are the questions that will keep fantasy enthusiasts up at night, analyzing and re-analyzing their draft strategies.
Ultimately, the relief pitcher position is all about finding the right balance between proven performance and upside. With so many options to choose from, managers have the flexibility to build their bullpen in a way that fits their overall team strategy. Whether you’re chasing saves, strikeouts, or a combination of both, the 2025 RP class has something for everyone. Who will you target as your top RP this season? The possibilities are endless, and thebullpen is loaded with talent just waiting to be tapped.
As the 2025 Fantasy Baseball season approaches, one thing is clear: the relief pitcher position is not just deep—it’s also STACKED with talent. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a rookie manager, the RP pool offers a world of possibilities. Start prepping those draft boards, because the race for bullpen supremacy is about to begin. Who’s your top RP target this season?
