The Rise of Relief Pitchers in Fantasy Baseball: A Closer Look at Reed Garrett’s Dominant Week

Reed Garrett had one heck of a fantasy baseball week, making a strong case for the increasing importance of relief pitchers in fantasy baseball. While starting pitchers have traditionally been the focus of fantasy drafts, recent trends suggest that relief pitchers are becoming more valuable assets.

Last week, five of the nine most impactful fantasy pitchers were relievers, with players like Kirby Yates, Craig Kimbrel, and Reed Garrett putting up impressive numbers. In fact, eight relievers, all closers, made it to the top 28 on the Yahoo MVP list, showcasing their value in fantasy baseball.

While starting pitchers still hold value, there is a growing realization that relief pitchers can provide significant contributions to fantasy teams. With the rise of bullpen committees and the increased emphasis on dynamic ratios, closers and high-strikeout relievers are becoming key targets for fantasy managers.

Some fantasy experts have even adopted a no-starters strategy, focusing on acquiring elite relievers and dominating hitting categories. This strategy, while unconventional, has proven successful for some managers in fantasy leagues.

As the landscape of baseball continues to evolve, fantasy managers must adapt their strategies to stay competitive. Whether it’s targeting high-impact relievers or taking a more balanced approach, the key is to stay ahead of the curve and capitalize on emerging trends in the game.

So, while starting pitchers still have their place in fantasy baseball, it’s becoming increasingly clear that relief pitchers are playing a larger role in shaping the fantasy landscape. As the game continues to change, fantasy managers must be willing to adjust their strategies to maximize their chances of success.