Tue Apr 29 11:00:00 UTC 2025: ## MLB’s Bullpen Battles: Early Season Closer Report Card

**New York, NY** – With nearly a fifth of the MLB season complete, the landscape of closers is starting to take shape. Some are shining, others are struggling, and several teams are facing intriguing decisions in the ninth inning.

Several closers are off to strong starts. Andrés Muñoz (Mariners) and Robert Suarez (Padres) are tied for the league lead in saves with a perfect 10-for-10 record, while Edwin Diaz (Mets) remains dominant despite some control issues. Josh Hader (Astros) has found his form after a shaky start last year, and Kenley Jansen (Angels) continues to be a reliable veteran presence.

However, other high-profile closers are facing challenges. Ryan Pressly (Astros), despite a spotless ERA, is exhibiting concerningly low strikeout rates and high hard-hit rates. Raisel Iglesias (Braves) has already surrendered more home runs than all of last season. Emmanuel Clase’s (Guardians) early-season struggles and recent shoulder soreness have raised questions about his role, even if his manager insists he remains the closer. Devin Williams (Yankees) has lost his job to Luke Weaver.

Several teams are experimenting with their closers. The Giants are utilizing a committee approach with Camilo Doval and Ryan Walker leading the charge, showcasing a strong overall bullpen performance. The Red Sox are relying on a lefty-righty tandem of Aroldis Chapman and Justin Slaten. The Phillies’ Jordan Romano is seeing less ninth-inning work than before, with Jose Alvarado and Matt Strahm occasionally taking over. The Brewers have again turned to Trevor Megill, after last year’s absence of Devin Williams.

Intriguing storylines surround several teams. The Rangers are relying on Luke Jackson, seeing his first consistent closer role since 2019. The Diamondbacks may turn to Shelby Miller if A.J. Puk’s injury and Justin Martinez’s velocity drop persist. The Nationals’ Kyle Finnegan, re-signed after being non-tendered, is performing well despite his team’s struggling bullpen. The Athletics’ Mason Miller boasts the season’s fastest pitch and an exceptional strikeout rate. Conversely, several teams, including the White Sox and Rockies, are dealing with a scarcity of save opportunities due to overall team struggles.

The early season closer picture reveals a mix of established stars maintaining dominance, others facing unexpected hurdles, and a number of exciting battles for the coveted ninth-inning role. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining who truly rises to the occasion and who falls short.

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