Fantasy Baseball: A Pair of Injuries Shake Up the Closer Rankings

Devin Williams was SI’s top-ranked relief pitcher, but he could miss the first three months of the season.

Author:
Jennifer Piacenti
Publish date:
Mar 14, 2024

In this story:

Injuries to Devin Williams and David Bednar have shaken up the closer rankings before the 2024 MLB season even begins. In other closer news, Aroldis Chapman touches 75 -- though not on the radar gun.

The Milwaukee Brewers will be without Williams, their star closer, for at least three months after it was discovered he has two stress fractures in his back. Williams made two appearances this spring before pausing activity due to back soreness. He will be completely shut down for at least six weeks before resuming activity, but he is expected to make a full recovery.

Nevertheless, this is bad news for the Brewers who just lost the 2023 National League Reliever of the Year for at least half the season. Williams pitched to a 1.53 ERA with a 38% K-rate and 36 saves last season.

Milwaukee Brewers closer Devin Williams — Devin Williams
Wendell Cruz/USA TODAY Sports

It’s unknown whether new skipper Pat Murphy will use a committee approach or name a specific replacement. Candidates for a replacement are likely Joel Payamps, Abner Uribe or Trevor Megill.

Bednar, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ closer, has been working through a lat injury. He is continuing to play catch, but his status is in question for Opening Day. Bednar had a career-high 39 saves in 2023 for the Bucs. If Bednar can’t go, Chapman will take over closing duties.

Speaking of Chapman, if you don’t follow him on instagram, don’t start now.

Here are the most up to date closer rankings heading into the weekend: