When it comes to fantasy baseball, the role of a relief pitcher can often be overlooked. However, a strong bullpen can be the difference between a winning and losing season. In this article, we will delve into the fantasy relief pitcher rankings for the upcoming season, highlighting the top relievers who could provide valuable contributions to your fantasy team.
1. Zach Britton, Baltimore Orioles
Zach Britton has been a dominant force in the bullpen for several seasons now. With a career ERA of 2.75 and a WHIP of 1.03, Britton has proven to be a reliable shutdown option for fantasy owners. His ability to strand runners on base and limit home runs makes him a top-tier reliever in any format.
2. Aroldis Chapman, New York Yankees
Aroldis Chapman is a closer by trade, but his ability to dominate hitters from the mound makes him a valuable asset in any role. With a career strikeout rate of over 13 per nine innings, Chapman has been a dominant force in the late innings. His move to the Yankees should only enhance his performance, making him a must-have reliever in your fantasy team.
3. Kenley Jansen, Los Angeles Dodgers
Kenley Jansen has been a shutdown closer for the Dodgers for several years, and his performance has only improved with age. With a career ERA of 2.75 and a WHIP of 1.04, Jansen has been a consistent source of saves and strikeouts. His ability to pitch effectively in high-leverage situations makes him a valuable asset in any fantasy league.
4. Craig Kimbrel, Atlanta Braves
Craig Kimbrel has been one of the best closers in the league for the past decade. Despite a few injury setbacks, Kimbrel has shown that he can still be a dominant force on the mound. With a career strikeout rate of over 12 per nine innings, Kimbrel is a reliable source of saves and strikeouts for fantasy owners.
5. David Robertson, Chicago White Sox
David Robertson has been a solid reliever for the past several seasons, and his move to the White Sox should only enhance his performance. With a career ERA of 3.23 and a WHIP of 1.14, Robertson has been a consistent source of saves and strikeouts. His ability to pitch effectively in high-leverage situations makes him a valuable asset in any fantasy league.
These are just a few of the top fantasy relief pitcher rankings for the upcoming season. Keep in mind that injuries and team situations can change the landscape of the rankings, so it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest news and reports. With a strong bullpen, your fantasy team can make a significant impact on the standings.