The 2026 MLB season is through five weeks. Following suit with previous seasons, this is the common point in the schedule where players break out of early-season slumps. Of course, certain players are continuing their outstanding production. This is what makes baseball the greatest sport in the world. Entering week six, here are the top 10 relief pitcher rankings.
He’s an elite and dominating pitcher out of the bullpen. Entering the week, Miller leads MLB in saves. He is gearing up to win MLB’s top relief pitcher award.
O’Brien has been a godsend for St. Louis’ bullpen. Entering the week, he’s among the league leaders in saves. Having the ninth-inning job secure gives the Cardinals the chance to keep up in the NL Central.
Atlanta is sitting at the top of the NL East, and Raisel Iglesias has been lights out. The veteran closer has been one of the top performers in the early part of the season. Robert Suarez has filled in nicely, but the Braves would like to get Iglesias back from the IL sooner rather than later.
Duran has been a bright spot for a struggling Phillies team. Philadelphia has been outscored this season, but when they lead in the ninth, Duran has been automatic at closing out games. He is currently on the IL, but should immediately continue his dominance when he returns.
This season hasn’t started well for the Red Sox. Entering the week, Boston has been one of the worst AL East teams. However, the elite veteran closer continues to close out games when the team is leading.
Santillan has been automatic as Cincinnati’s setup man. He’s ranked among the league’s leaders in holds. By the end of the season, Tony Santillan can take over the Reds’ closer role.
Sewald’s success in closing out games has aided the Diamondbacks fight for the division. The season is in the infancy stage, but Sewald has solidified the ninth inning of games. By the end of the season, the veteran closer will be among the league leaders in saves.
Soto has been outstanding at the back end of Pittsburgh’s bullpen. He’s off to the best start in his career. Entering the week, Soto’s K/9 ranks him among MLB’s relief pitcher leaders.
Sabrowski has been fantastic to start the season. He’s been the perfect bridge to Cleveland’s ninth-inning man. Entering the week, Sabrowski leads MLB in holds.
The second-year reliever has been electric. He ranks in the top five in holds and is one of Arizona’s most reliable relievers. If Paul Sewald struggles at any point, Morillo is the favorite to take over the closer role for the Diamondbacks.
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