While some MLB teams are fighting for playoff spots, others are just trying to wrap this season up. Many relief pitchers have extended themselves so we’re seeing a lot of tired arms around this time of year.

This could mean that a variety of players start picking up saves in one-off appearances that could throw a wrench into fantasy scoring. Let's take a look around the league at some recent closer news.

Editor’s Note (to place at bottom of intro text): Editor's Note: Bookmark our MLB Closers & Saves Depth Charts for the latest look at all the current closers, setup men, longshots and relief pitcher waiver wire adds.

MLB Closers & Saves Updates for Week 21

Sean Doolittle (OAK)

The much discussed Doolittle was expected to easily win his job back as the full time closer, but a rough start has shaken things up a bit. In his first two appearances back he has given up three earned runs in 1.2 innings, including a blown save. His command has been incredibly shaky which has caused his pitch counts to rise. If he is able to successfully close a game or two, I’m sure manager Bob Melvin will hand over the job to him, but we’ll have to wait and see how that goes.

In the meantime, Drew Pomeranz and Pat Venditte have been getting late game opportunities but neither is a good fantasy option right now. Keep an eye on Doolittle to see what goes on moving forward.

Junichi Tazawa (BOS)

After two solid saves, Tazawa had an awful outing against the Royals where he gave up six hits and four runs in only one inning. The Sox did announce that they’d still stick with him as the closer and he actually had a nice showing and picked up a save in his most recent appearance. At only 14.5% owned in ESPN leagues he is a waiver wire possibility but only if you’re really in need of a reliever.

There is still a possibility that Jean Machi, whose also struggled, or Alex Ogando could see some save opportunities if Tazawa has any more struggles.

Tom Wilhelmson (SEA)

The closer carousel in Seattle continues as now Wilhelmson has been handed over the reigns to one of the worst bullpens in recent memory. Fernando Rodney has finally gotten the boot as the closer and Carson Smith was demoted as well. Wilhelmson averages about a strikeout per inning and has two saves in a row under his belt. He’s available in over 95% of ESPN leagues and is actually a solid waiver wire option at this point. I would certainly rather pick him up than Tazawa or the options on the Athletics aside from Doolittle. At least there is no more Rodney on the immediate radar.

Greg Holland (KC)

Holland seems to have a bit of a tired arm which has allowed the electric Wade Davis to step in and get a couple saves in the past week. He has been incredible all year with a 1.03 ERA and .85 WHIP. If he’s available in your leagues he’s a no brainer pickup for me especially if Holland is going to be resting for any amount of time. I could definitely see him being rested to get their bullpen back to full strength for the playoffs.

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