MLB: Ranking The Top 7 Closers and Relief Pitchers Right Now
Kyle Amore
Host · Writer
7. Bryan Abreu, Houston Astros
Bryan Abreu finished the 2024 season with career-highs in innings pitched (78.1), strikeouts (103), and holds (38). He’s headed to finish 2025 with new highs in innings pitched, strikeouts, and a second consecutive season with 30+ holds. He has been MLB’s top setup man since 2022.
1. Josh Hader, Houston Astros
August 8 was his last appearance before a strained shoulder cut his season short, but Josh Hader is still the top MLB relief pitcher. He finishes the season with 28 saves, 2.05 ERA, 0.85 WHIP, and 76 strikeouts in 52.2 innings. Houston must have their closer healthy when the playoffs begin.
2. Andres Munoz, Seattle Mariners
Andres Munoz has been electric throughout the season. He’s reached 30 saves for the first time in his career, and he’s on pace to finish with a sub-1.80 ERA, sub-1.10 WHIP, 42 saves, and 85 strikeouts. Munoz will be a godsend for the Mariners in the playoffs.
3. Aroldis Chapman, Boston Red Sox
Aroldis Chapman continues to improve his numbers as the season continues. He’s on pace to end the season with a 1.10 ERA, 0.80 WHIP, 35 saves, and 95 strikeouts. The durable closer will be reliable for the Red Sox in the upcoming playoffs.
4. Edwin Diaz, New York Mets
Edwin Diaz’s fantastic season has seen him post a sub-2.00 ERA, sub-1.10 WHIP, and 13.75 K/9. He’s been one of the top closers throughout the 2025 season. The Mets will rely on him to close out close games during their playoff run.
5. Jhoan Duran, Philadelphia Phillies
Jhoan Duran is having his best MLB season in a close role. He’s on pace to finish with 30+ saves and 90+ strikeouts. Philadelphia is a favorite to reach the NLCS, and Jhoan Duran will be their lights-out arm out of the bullpen.
6. Abner Uribe, Milwaukee Brewers
Abner Uribe is having the best season of his three MLB seasons. He’s on pace to set career highs in ERA, WHIP, innings pitched, strikeouts, holds, and saves. He currently leads MLB in holds and has been the best setup man throughout the season.
7. Bryan Abreu, Houston Astros
Bryan Abreu finished the 2024 season with career-highs in innings pitched (78.1), strikeouts (103), and holds (38). He’s headed to finish 2025 with new highs in innings pitched, strikeouts, and a second consecutive season with 30+ holds. He has been MLB’s top setup man since 2022.
1. Josh Hader, Houston Astros
August 8 was his last appearance before a strained shoulder cut his season short, but Josh Hader is still the top MLB relief pitcher. He finishes the season with 28 saves, 2.05 ERA, 0.85 WHIP, and 76 strikeouts in 52.2 innings. Houston must have their closer healthy when the playoffs begin.
