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Lucas Erceg 2025 Fantasy Baseball Outlook: Closers Don't Need To Be A Household Name For Job Security
Lucas Erceg notched 14 saves with a 3.36 ERA in 61 ⅔ IP split between Oakland and Kansas City in 2024 and enters 2025 as the potential Royals closer. Erceg has everything needed to succeed in the role. His 28.5% K% was backed by a strong fastball (12.3% SwStr%) and two wipeout offerings: a slider (16.7% SwStr%) and a change (18.6% SwStr%). His sinker isn't as exciting with a 7.9% SwStr% and 54.5% Zone%, but it gives hitters a fourth pitch to think about. Kansas City proved itself a contender last season, so the Royals shouldn't have any shortage of save opportunities. The Royals prioritise defense, leading MLB with 40 Outs Above Average in 2024, and Kauffman Stadium's 85 HR factor keeps homers in check. However, the Royals muddied the waters by signing Carlos Estevez to a two-year contract. Estevez has more closing experience than Erceg, and the small-market Royals might prefer to keep Erceg's saves count low to save money in arbitration. If Erceg isn't guaranteed the Opening Day closer's job, he represents poor value at his current ADP of 122.91.
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