MARKET PULSE: (I long to be) Closer to you

See the end of the article for an explanation of the ratings used here. And a thousand thanks to the folks at OnRoto.com for providing the oh-so-important league ownership data for this article.

Yes, this space sometimes reads like the Bullpen Buyers Guide redux, but let's face it: there are fewer opportunities for a player to go from worthless to valuable than a scrub reliever finding himself in the closer role. Hitters can come up from the minors or jump into full-time roles, but the short reliever-closer transition is usually a big leap in value. It certainly strengthens the argument for using holds as a stat in your leagues, but that's a rant for another day.

CLOSER SCRUM #1: In Chicago, Ronald Belisario (RHP, CHW) has been removed...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From Market Pulse

There aren't a ton of playable 1B available, but some pretty good ones are on the list, with decent options throughout the draft.
Feb 15 2026 3:03am
Who's on second (no, who's on first)? We'll be answering that this week. It's a thin position with some decent opportunities for value.
Feb 9 2026 3:10am
Yes, the outfield is more scarce than several other positions. Who would have thunk it?
Feb 2 2026 3:08am
Both bargains and potential pitfalls in the 3B pool this year. Overall, though, it's going to be hard to find top-level players to fill out your roster.
Jan 26 2026 3:05am
Happy pre-season! This week, we'll examine the market for catchers, and will toss our DH-only guys in as well, since (with one exception), they're also slow as molasses.
Jan 19 2026 3:06am

Tools