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Every lineup decision, every free agent acquisition, has a huge impact on the final outcome.
There are plenty of category-specific options offensively and you know exactly what you’re getting when it comes to acquiring a starter, but this is one of the toughest times of the season if you need a save.
The closer position continues to be one of the most volatile positions in both reality and fantasy.
Of the 30 MLB teams, only 12 have the same closer in September as they did in April, and five of those teams have multiple players in and out of the closer position.
Injuries are always an issue and there are cases like Clay Holmes and the Yankees where he lost his job, got it back, then lost it again.
Chasing saves has once again become a futile endeavor that wears down FAAB.
Still, finding a save this late in the game could make a big difference for some.
In a standard rotisserie format, the middle of the category is usually crowded and even the smallest of saves can move you up a few points in the standings.
Unfortunately, at this stage of the game, with the waiver wire being picked off all on a regular basis, it's hard to find players dominating the save work in their respective bullpens.
But there are a few players who are up for committee as closers who are worthy of consideration.
It may seem odd, but the Tigers have been one of the best-performing teams in baseball recently.
The team is 16-7 in their last 23 games, and in the last 10 games, left-hander Tyler Holton is tied with current closer Jason Foley for the top spot in saves, with Holton recording three saves in that span.
Foley also has three, so it's clear manager AJ Hinch will continue to play this matchup.
Maybe they'll use an in-form player if things go awry, but for now Holton is an intriguing and probably available option.
The Rockies may not be a good team, but every save counts, and if Tyler Kinley is available, he has recorded three saves over the past two weeks.
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His ERA and WHIP may be shocking at times, but if you can tolerate the ratio changes, the saves should help.
If not, you'll need to keep digging.
Every league is different, but there may be some unknown gems on the waiver wire who could be of help.
Check out names like Edwin Uceta, Porter Hodge and Lucas Erceg. Calvin Faucher or Matt Strahm might also be available.
Keep a close eye on who's getting the saves, and don't be afraid to create a revolving door for yourself.
The championship is finally here, and every stat counts.
Howard Bender is Fantasy Alarm Follow him on X Translator Tune in to the award-winning “Fantasy Alarm Radio Show” weekdays from 6-8pm on the SiriusXM Fantasy Sports Channel. Visit FantasyAlarm.com We bring you all the fantasy baseball news and advice.
