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Earlier I wrote about some All-Star closers that were struggling in the first round of the fantasy baseball playoffs. Now let’s go to the other side of the coin. Here are some closers that have actually lived up to their hype this year in the fantasy playoffs.
Rafael Soriano, Washington Nationals – Soriano has been the best closer in the fantasy playoffs this year. In his five appearances, Soriano has recorded five saves for fantasy owners. Games against the struggling Miami Marlins, New York Mets, and Philadelphia Phillies certainly helped the closer rack up some serious points this year in the finals.
Mariano Rivera, New York Yankees – It may be Mo’s final appearance in the fantasy playoffs, but he is making it count. He has racked up 5.1 innings in the playoffs this year, including converting all four of his save opportunities.
Craig Kimbrel, Atlanta Braves – In five appearances (5.1 innings), Kimbrel has been absolutely dealing. Over that stretch, he has three saves, one win, and four strikeouts. He has also allowed just one total base runner throughout the playoffs. Fantasy owners can’t ask for much more than perfection.
Jonathan Papelbon, Philadelphia Phillies – Papelbon has been less than impressive for most of the season, but he has been able to rack up some points in the fantasy playoffs. He has three saves in four appearances and the five-time All-Star has also struck out four batters without issuing a single run.
Related Articles:
2013 Fantasy Baseball Playoffs: The Bad Closers
Adam McGill is the Senior Fantasy Sports Writer at Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @adammcgill83, like him on Facebook, or add him to you networks on Google here or here.
