May 23, 2026 — The inaugural MLB Relief Pitcher Rankings were released today, naming nine middle‑relief specialists and three closers as the league’s most valuable arms midway through the season. Analysts point to swing‑rate, inherited‑runner efficiency and high‑leverage FIP as the stats that lifted these arms into the spotlight, and clubs are already scrambling for playoff positioning.
While starters such as Bryce Elder boast a sub‑1.00 ERA, the new rankings prove a strong bullpen can equal a rotation’s impact in tight division races. The numbers give fantasy owners a chance to scoop late‑season waiver‑wire steals before the July 31 deadline.
How the Rankings Were Compiled
Experts from MLB.com blended traditional stats with advanced metrics like xFIP, WPA and leverage‑index to generate a weighted score for every reliever with at least 30 innings. The formula mirrors starter rankings but adds extra weight to inherited‑runner strand rate, a key indicator of bullpen effectiveness.
Top Relievers and What Sets Them Apart
Chicago Cubs left‑hander Liam O’Connor leads the list with a 1.85 ERA, a 0.92 strand rate on inherited runners and a 12.4 K/9 rate, ranking third league‑wide among qualifiers. His 2.1 BB/9 shows rare command and the 2.6 K/BB ratio tops all relievers with 30+ innings. New York Mets closer Javier Soto follows with a 2.01 ERA, 28 saves and a league‑best 0.88 HR/9.
Houston Astros veteran Trevor Holt earned a spot thanks to a 0.78 WPA per inning, the highest in the majors, and a cutter spin rate of 2,800 rpm, well above the league average of 2,300 rpm, driving a 38% whiff rate.
Impact and What’s Next for Teams
Cleveland Guardians have opened talks with the Cubs about acquiring O’Connor to improve a bullpen that currently ranks 12th in inherited‑runner strand rate. The trade chatter underscores how front offices view the rankings as a scouting shortcut.
Fantasy baseball managers should watch Holt’s usage; his high leverage index suggests a larger role as the Astros chase a wild‑card berth. The rankings also warn clubs that over‑reliance on a single closer can be risky—Soto’s recent elbow strain underscores the value of a multi‑reliever shutdown strategy.
Baseball America notes that the San Diego Padres are eyeing veteran right‑hander Ryan Velazquez, whose 2025 postseason experience could bolster a bullpen that ranked 18th in inherited‑runner strand rate last year. Velazquez posted a 2.34 ERA and a 0.95 K/BB ratio in 2025, and his veteran presence may prove decisive after the All‑Star break when teams solidify their late‑season rosters.
How is leverage‑index calculated for relievers?
The metric weighs the game situation, inning, score differential and base‑runner state, assigning a value that spikes in high‑pressure spots. Holt’s 0.98 index places him in the top tier of pitchers used in clutch moments.
Which teams are most likely to trade for a ranked reliever before the deadline?
According to ESPN, the Guardians, Braves and Brewers have expressed interest in O’Connor, while the Red Sox are monitoring Soto’s health for a potential acquisition.
How can fantasy owners use the MLB Relief Pitcher Rankings?
The rankings highlight relievers with strong WPA and low ERA, offering clues for waiver‑wire pickups. Targeting players like Holt, who combine high leverage usage with solid peripheral stats, can yield a competitive edge in late‑season leagues.
