Who Is The Cubs Closer? Fantasy Baseball Saves Outlook

April 15, 2023

Who will be the Cubs' closer in 2023? Sam takes a look at the early season results, and what that means moving forward. Who will get the most chances for the Cubs?

The Chicago Cubs aren't one of the favorites to win the World Series in 2023, but if early results mean anything, they just might surprise some people in 2023.

The Cubs are playing above .500 baseball despite not having the most talented of rosters, but the future in Chicago looks bright. However, one of the questions that hasn't been answered resides in the bullpen.

Do they have a closer? Let's take a look at what has transpired over the first eleven games, and what might happen as the season progresses.

Who Will Be The Cubs Closer In 2023?

One phrase fantasy baseball fans don't love to hear is the dreaded "closer by committee". Common sense says to pick one pitcher, one stud, and make that man the "Guy". However, it doesn't always turn out that way in every scenario.

It can be challenging for many organizations that don't have a proven closer on their rosters to find a reliable and trustworthy pitcher for the ninth inning. As a result, they often go with the hot hand on any given gameday, and just hope it works out. Over the years, this strategy usually doesn't end well with many teams wishing they had signed an established game finisher.

Through the first eleven games of 2023, it appears the Cubs are still figuring themselves out in the bullpen. However, despite blowing his first save opportunity of the season on Tuesday, it appears 30-year-old Michael Fulmer has been given the job to lose. Fulmer has mostly been solid early on, allowing just one run while walking none and striking out eight through 4 1/3 innings.

Who Could Replace Michael Fulmer If He Falters?

If Fulmer ends up blowing more saves as the season progresses, the team will be forced to move him out of the closer role. But do they have any suitable replacements?

It's Fulmer's job to lose, and if he struggles the next man up will be 34-year-old veteran Brad Boxberger. Through five appearances in 2023, the righthander has a 2.08 ERA in 4.1 innings pitched. He has proven to be a reliable and consistent arm in the bullpen, but he isn't exactly Mariano Rivera, so don't go spending big bucks to get him on your fantasy team.

If Fulmer is on your waiver wire, and you're in need of saves, go get him. Don't overpay with your FAAB though, as his presence in the ninth isn't set in stone. His recent blown save is concerning, but for now, he's your guy, just make sure you keep your fingers crossed.

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