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As we get closer to All-Star break I'm hoping for some trades revolving closers to shake things up a bit.
There are still some contending teams like the Jays and Diamondbacks in the market for a stable closer. It's likely a move will happen in the near future, so be sure to stay tuned for more updates.
Editor’s Note: to read about even more waiver wire options for closers and relief pitchers, be sure to check out our famous waiver wire pickups list which is a running list that is updated daily.
Closers & Saves Updates for Week 12
Francisco Rodriguez (RP, MIL)
I'll start with K-Rod who has been mentioned in trade rumors over the past week or so. Rodriguez is having an excellent season, with a 1.00 ERA and 32 strikeouts in 27 innings. Surprisingly, according to Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports, Rodriguez has not been drawing much interest from teams. Now this could simply be contending teams trying to bring the asking price down from the Brewers, or teams may feel that his current contract is just too much to take on. If he does end up being moved, it still appears that the Jays have shown the most interest thus far so keep an eye on that.
Brett Cecil and Roberto Osuna (RP, TOR)
What a whirlwind for the Blue Jays bullpen this season. Struggling to find consistency in the back end has been an issue all season for the Jays. This week it was announced that Brett Cecil has officially been removed as the closer. For Cecil owners, it's time to say goodbye and drop him as soon as possible.
It looks like the Jays will go with the closer by committee tactic for the time being. To me the most intriguing fantasy option is 20-year-old Roberto Osuna who has 40 strikeouts in 34 1/3 innings on the season. He also picked up the most recent save for the Jays by striking out five batters in a rare two inning save. If the Jays actually pass on making a trade in the coming weeks, Osuna could be a sleeper moving forward. At only 16.5% owned in ESPN leagues, he is certainly someone to watch on the waiver wire.
Dellin Betances (RP, NYY)
It's worth mentioning that after allowing only one run in his first 35 innings this season, Betances shockingly gave up four to the lowly Phillies in his most recent appearance. Bentances owners just remember that this happens to everybody at some point.
Trevor Rosenthal (RP, STL)
Rosenthal has now gone 19.2 innings without allowing a run which is the longest current streak out of all closers in the majors. There have been reports that he's had some forearm tightness so Rosenthal owners will want to monitor that situation. If he is rested at any point, Kevin Siegrist is a possible candidate to step into the closer role. With 44 strikeouts in 31.1 innings on the season, Siegrist would be a great waiver wire pickup if that were to occur.
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