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Dennis Santana Won't be Pirates' Primary Closer
Jose Negron of DK Pittsburgh Sports reports that the Pittsburgh Pirates aren't expected to have a designated closer going into the 2026 regular season. Manager Don Kelly said that right-hander Dennis Santana will get a lot of time in the ninth inning, but "he won't be the only one." "Gregory Soto has closed, we've got guys on the back end that can handle it with the stuff they have," Kelly said. Santana is still probably the best fantasy bet for saves in the Steel City, but Soto and Isaac Mattson could also see opportunities, especially if Santana hits a rough patch at any point. The 29-year-old Dominican had a strong 2.18 ERA (3.21 FIP), 0.87 WHIP, a career-high 16 saves, 60 strikeouts, and 17 walks in 70 1/3 innings in a career year with the Bucs in 2025. Santana saw 10 of the team's final 12 save chances last year after they traded away David Bednar. This news further cements the fact that Santana remains a risky fantasy closer despite the fact that he's the favorite for saves to begin the year.
Source: DK Pittsburgh Sports - Jose Negron
Source: DK Pittsburgh Sports - Jose Negron
