Brad Keller and Andrew Kittredge form a Cubs late-inning committee after Palencia hits the IL, creating a two-headed path to saves with fireman duties sprinkled in. Dennis Santana remains the Pirates’ closer, and JoJo Romero with Riley O’Brien share Cardinals late-inning leverage, offering mixed saves and holds as playoff rosters tighten. Ranger arms Shawn Armstrong and Phil Maton are splitting saves, with Trevor Megill’s looming return for Milwaukee reshaping the back end. In deeper leagues, Arizona’s bullpen shows leverage ladder activity behind Woodford, Saalfrank, and Thompson.

The St. Louis Cardinals are facing significant changes to their pitching staff as they enter a rebuilding phase. Despite a strong bullpen performance in 2024, ranking fourth in the National League with a 3.64 ERA, offseason adjustments could dismantle this success.

Andrew Kittredge, who excelled with 37 holds, is likely to attract interest from competing teams. His departure could open doors for younger pitchers, as the Cardinals aim to cut payroll and focus on development.