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Lucas Erceg 2025 Outlook: Closers Don't Need to Be a Household Name for Job Security
11 mins agoLucas Erceg notched 14 saves with a 3.36 ERA in 61 ⅔ IP split between Oakland and Kansas City in 2024 and enters 2025 as the unquestioned Royals closer. Erceg has everything needed to succeed in the role. His 28.5% K% was backed by a strong fastball (12.3% SwStr%) and two wipeout offerings: a slider (16.7% SwStr%) and a change (18.6% SwStr%). His sinker isn't as exciting with a 7.9% SwStr% and 54.5% Zone%, but it gives hitters a fourth pitch to think about. Kansas City proved itself a contender last season, so Erceg shouldn't have any shortage of save opportunities. Furthermore, the small-market Royals are unlikely to bring in significant ninth-inning competition. Kansas City prioritizes defense, leading MLB with 40 Outs Above Average in 2024, and Kauffman Stadium's 85 HR factor keeps homers in check. Fantasy value for RP is just as dependent on context as talent, and you won't find a better option than Erceg around his ADP of 116.26.
