With just over two weeks until the finish line, the high-leverage ecosystem remains in constant flux based on usage patterns, causing frustration for fantasy managers. However, no one may have it worse than Blake Butera. Washington has already set a MLB single-season record with 38 blown saves, breaking its own team record set in 2021 (37). Finding a solution should be a priority for the team in 2027; however, the upcoming free-agent market offers limited options for a quick fix.Arizona’s Juan Morillo was highlighted in last week’s post, and he did receive a save chance in this scoring period, but he gave up a game-tying home run in Kansas City. The Diamondbacks remain somewhat fluid, and Justin Martinez has not been used in a save situation, but one anticipates he will get a chance soon if he’s the team’s closer for next season.The Dodgers had a five-game stretch with four relievers recording a save. Only Tanner Scott notched two between Sept. 4 and Sept. 8. Jack Dreyer, Edgardo Henriquez, and Evan Phillips all chipped in with a save in this timeframe.
Last but not least, the Cubs. Jacob Webb has not recorded a save since Aug. 14, and his last three blown saves have been on game-tying or go-ahead home runs with two outs in the ninth inning. Daniel Palencia has allowed at least a run in five of his six previous outings. A committee approach could ensue, but manager Craig Counsell hopes his bullpen executes better as the playoffs draw nearer. From a fantasy lens, a matchup-based approach involving Ryan Zeferjahn and Ryan Rolison could be employed moving forward as well.This leads into our updated leverage pathways, which aim to provide accurate team approaches for procuring saves despite the league’s confusing usage patterns. Each team will receive one of the following labels:
