Dodgers' October blueprint remains potent: elite starting pitching, a star-studded lineup, and a bullpen that can swing games in high-leverage moments. Game 1 epitomized the push-pull of a bullpen prone to meltdowns, with Brice Turang narrowly preventing a late collapse. History suggests relief depth matters, but even bottom-ranked bullpens have won titles when other variables align. The path to back-to-back titles hinges on smarter bullpen management and continued timely hitting from LA’s roster.

Relief-pitcher values in 12-team NFBC lean on locked-in closers with elite strikeout upside and manageable walks. Chapman wins Boston’s closer role, posting a 1.17 ERA and 0.70 WHIP with a 37% K rate. Estevez led MLB with 42 saves but rising walks and slightly lower velocity hint at regression in 2026. Bednar’s late-season rebound after a Pirates-to-Yankees move underscores both upside and risk in bullpen targets.

Pagan delivered 32 saves for Cincinnati with a sturdy 2.88 ERA and 0.92 WHIP. Morejon logged 13 wins as a full-time reliever for San Diego, offering upside if stretched toward a rotation. The piece also flags depth options and late pivots—Cade Smith, Will Vest, Ronny Henriquez, Dylan Cease, Michael King, Robert Suárez, Mason Miller and Jason Adam—that could reshape bullpen hierarchies next season.

Texas plans a heavy rotation refresh around Jacob deGrom and Nathan Eovaldi, with Jack Leiter ready to step forward and Kumar Rocker in the mix. The challenge is adding reliable depth behind the pair while rebuilding a bullpen and retooling the lineup to keep the rotation competitive into 2025.

Dylan Cease stands as the marquee target, but price and market dynamics could push the Rangers toward middle- and back-end options like Zack Littell, Michael Lorenzen, Adrian Houser or Dustin May, offering durability, innings, and upside without blowing budget—plus internal prospects ready to push for a larger role.