Closer is the most important position in the bullpen, and without a top of the line closer, teams will struggle to win the World Series. If a team can’t close out a game in the ninth inning, wins will be hard to come by, especially in games decided by three or fewer runs.
Top end closers aren’t generally found in free agency as a lot of teams are reluctant to let their closers or eighth inning guys go if they are good. However, this offseason features some decent talent at the closer position and has some guys with plenty of experience.
While you won’t get a top tier closer through free agency this year, teams can certainly improve upon what they have if what they have is not up to par.
Free Agent Closers
Joe Nathan
Ernesto Frieri
Edward Mujica
John Axford
Joakim Soria
LaTroy Hawkins
Jim Johnson
Sergio Santos
Jean Machi