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The Chicago Cubs have gone through their fair share of closers over the past few years. Chicago has had seven different closers since 2016, including Adbert Alzolay, David Robertson, and Craig Kimbrel in each of the past three seasons (2021 to 2023).
The Cubs are hoping for some consistency in that role again in 2024 after Alzolay posted 22 saves one season ago. With the Cubs expected to be competitive in 2024, whichever reliever lands that closer role could find himself with plenty of opportunities in the ninth inning.
So, who is the Cubs closer? Is he a viable fantasy baseball option? Let's dive in and find out.
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Who is the Cubs' Starting Closer?
We are just 11 days into the 2024 regular season, but it's pretty apparent who won the Cubs' closer role out of spring training. Alzolay appears to be the team's closer again this season following an impressive campaign in 2023.
Last year, Alzolay totaled 22 saves -- 20 of which came from June 9 to August 29. During that almost three-month span, the 29-year-old blew just one save opportunity while having a 3.00 ERA. Despite new manager Craig Counsell not committing to the right-hander out of spring training, he has gotten all the save chances to begin the year.
Adbert Alzolay rocking the “SHŌCAGO” shirt from @obvious_shirts 🔥
(📸: @adbert29 IG story) pic.twitter.com/ZbyjvmPguS
— Cubs Zone (@CubsZone) April 2, 2024
Alzolay saw his first save opportunity on Opening Day but blew that chance after allowing a home run to Travis Jankowski. Counsell, though, went back to the Venezuelan native. That resulted in the right-hander earning his first win on April 3 and his first save on April 5.
Adbert Alzolay Fantasy Baseball Outlook
With Alzolay set to be the Cubs' full-time closer in 2024, he should be rostered in every format. He has already seen three save opportunities through nine games, and with Chicago expected to be competitive in 2024, his high usage should not stop throughout the season.
If Alzolay is on your waiver wire right now, you should make room for him on your roster. He is coming off a year where he finished with a 2.67 ERA and 22 saves across 58 appearances. While his 22 saves might not seem like a ton, his 20 saves from June 9 to August 29 were the third-most in the majors during that span -- only behind Devin Williams (21) and Alexis Diaz (21).
Adbert Alzolay Notches First Save https://t.co/s89V8gezxp
— RotoBaller MLB (@RotoBallerMLB) April 5, 2024
Once a starter for the Cubs, Alzolay has since fully committed to being a reliable arm in the late innings. His 10.0 career strikeouts per nine innings and 2.77 ERA out of the bullpen since 2022 also make him a solid fantasy option this season.
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