RELIEVERS: Week one observations, 2016

This column has two or three innings per reliever to analyze! The truth is, you cannot tell a single thing about a reliever from two or three innings. Fantasy owners may have a knee-jerk reaction. So might real managers of teams. But the truth is, throwing out months of preparations and projections without injury or bona fide role change is foolish. So try to be patient. Having said that, here is a whirlwind through 12 pens—subject to change as quickly as tomorrow comes.

Let's start this week with Texas. I was on SiriusXM the day after Rangers closer Shawn Tolleson (RHP, TEX) blew a save in spectacular fashion against Seattle and was asked if he is out, who is next. It is a legitimate question. But one blown save is not going to cause...

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 Relief Pitchers

This column covers relievers who might cost you a lot chasing saves but then fizzle out because of skills or injury risk.
Mar 8 2026 3:07am
This is the annual sleepers column, but let's be honest: There are no sleepers. There are relievers with great skills who are cheaper than they should be ... and that's what you want anyway.
Mar 1 2026 3:03am
Here are your high skills relievers projected to come at a discount and earn a profit, per LIMA grades.
Feb 22 2026 3:04am
These five pens are going to figure out roles during Spring Training. Kevin Ginkel appears to be the favorite in Arizona, but let's look at the known options from a skills perspective.
Feb 15 2026 3:07am
An early February run through closers by NFBC ADP.
Feb 6 2026 3:04am

Tools