Holding On

One of the things I love about fantasy baseball is there seems to be an endless number of categories a person can use for their leagues. For those of you playing in leagues that use holds as a category, this one is for you! After all, why should closers get all of the credit for finishing games? Here are a few names to stash that could make a big impact in the coming weeks.

Jenrry Mejia

Mejia is eligible to come back from his 80 game suspension on July 7th. He appears to be fully recovered from the elbow inflammation that flared up about the same time he was served his suspension. Say what you want about the PED suspension but he was slated to be the Mets closer coming out of spring training. He should set into a setup role and be able to plenty of holds with a k/rate north of 9. That is, assuming the Mets offense can start scoring runs. In addition, he may qualify at SP in some leagues which makes him even more appealing if you have your RP and P slots filled on a daily basis.

Jordan Walden

Walden is on his way back from a shoulder strain and is on track to return sometime around the All-Star break. He may have been dropped due to his lengthy DL stint so if he is available, he is a fine stash. One of the best setup men in baseball last season for the Cardinals, he offers a high k/rate, good whip and pitches for the best team in baseball (at least record-wise).There is some health risk since should injuries seem to be the most unpredictable injuries but he is well worth that risk.

Ross Ohlendorf

Also working his way back from the DL, Ohlendorf is another relief pitcher with SP eligibility in some leagues. Though a small sample size, he offered a high k/rate and grabbed a win, a save and 5 holds in 7.2 innings before going on the DL with a groin strain. He has already started a rehab assignment so he could be back in the next week. The only thing that is certain about the Rangers bullpen is Shawn Tolleson closing out games. Ohlendorf could stake his claim to the setup job once he returns.

Be sure to keep an eye on relievers moving around at the trade deadline. A player doesn't always have to be dealt to gain value in fantasy. A closer may be traded causing a domino effect for others to fall into closing and setup situations.