As the trade deadline looms, the fantasy baseball landscape shifts dramatically with potential closer changes across multiple teams. The Cleveland Guardians face a pivotal moment with Emmanuel Clase on paid leave due to a gambling investigation, and the search for save opportunities intensifies. Stashing certain relief pitchers who could soon ascend to the closer role is crucial for fantasy managers seeking an edge in saves.

Highlights this week include Cade Smith, who boasts a 97 mph fastball and a 34% strikeout rate, making him a prime candidate for saves if Clase's absence extends. Jason Adam and Robert Suarez of the San Diego Padres form a formidable ending duo, combining for 55 saves and holds this season. With trade rumors swirling around established closers like Ryan Helsley, strategic waiver wire moves can help managers capitalize on emerging closer situations.

With the MLB trade deadline fast approaching, savvy fantasy baseball managers need to focus on closers and potential saves. As last year's trades showed, players like Carlos Estevez and Gregory Soto were on the move, making it crucial to stash relievers who could step into closing roles. Names like Jason Adam and Randy Rodriguez stand out as backup options in their bullpens, while players like Griffin Jax and Bryan Abreu showcase impressive strikeout rates, presenting potential for saves if their respective team's primary closers are traded. Stashing these players could be the key to securing saves in the crucial weeks leading to the playoffs.

As the MLB trade deadline approaches, savvy fantasy baseball players should keep a close eye on potential closer-closing changes and stash some high-potential relief pitchers. Jason Adam of the San Diego Padres, with a standout ERA of 1.69, is the top handcuff to monitor, especially given Robert Suarez's recent struggles. Similarly, Randy Rodriguez of the San Francisco Giants is poised for a possible promotion should Camilo Doval falter. Griffin Jax from the Minnesota Twins and Bryan Abreu of the Houston Astros also boast impressive strikeout rates and are positioned well should their teams' closers be traded or falter. Stashing these pitchers could lead to valuable saves down the stretch.

Week 12 of the 2025 fantasy baseball season highlights the volatility at the closer position, prompting savvy fantasy managers to consider stashing backup options for potential saves down the stretch. With injuries and performance issues affecting several bullpens, including those of the San Diego Padres and Seattle Mariners, identifying closers who may be on a shorter leash becomes crucial.

Jason Adam of the San Diego Padres, who boasts a 1.54 ERA and 17 holds, is a prime candidate to take over if Robert Suarez falters. Similarly, Randy Rodríguez of the San Francisco Giants is positioned to leapfrog Camilo Doval, who has struggled recently. Other noteworthy mentions include Lucas Erceg of the Kansas City Royals and Bryan Abreu of the Houston Astros, both of whom have shown promise in their respective bullpens. Staying alert in this fluid environment can unlock hidden value in your fantasy roster as the season progresses.

As the MLB season heats up, fantasy players should focus on strategic pickups and matchups. Alex Verdugo, recovering from recent struggles, has shown promise with a three-run homer in Triple-A, making his potential call-up to the Atlanta Braves highly anticipated. Meanwhile, Michael Conforto's impressive home performance against right-handed pitchers showcases his value, especially with the Dodgers' favorable matchup schedule this week. Don't overlook Miguel Andujar of the Oakland Athletics, who is also making waves with solid statistics against righties - he could be a game-changer for fantasy rosters. Lastly, Spencer Strider's return from elbow surgery is highly awaited, and his performance in the minors suggests a dominant season ahead. Keep an eye on Jason Adam from the Padres as he leads in holds and may soon secure regular save opportunities.