Fantasy Baseball Closer Hot Seat: AL | NL

Fantasy baseball closer depth charts: AL | NL

In fantasy baseball, the closer position remains volatile. Rarely does every closer hang on to the job for an entire season - injuries, poor performance and managerial decisions can cloud a team's bullpen picture.

Should you be concerned about a struggling stopper? Which relievers are climbing the depth chart? Are any injuries popping up? KFFL.com's Fantasy Baseball Closer Hot Seat keeps you informed when you're looking for saves.

Key

Philadelphia Phillies

Closer: Jose Contreras

Understudy: Brad Lidge

Disabled list: Ryan Madson (toe)

Lidge sent for tests

The Phillies sent Lidge back to Philadelphia today to have his right elbow examined because of stiffness. Yesterday, Lidge said his elbow was fine, but he was discouraged after playing catch later in the day. Stiffness isn't out of the ordinary when returning from elbow surgery, and for now, Lidge is considered day-to-day.

This solidifies Contreras' value in the short term. He'll be the first option for any saves. He's a priority add in all leagues.

Job security score: 1

Health score: 4

Mound meetings

• Manuel Corpas' tag as the Colorado Rockies' interim closer was strengthened with Franklin Morales' placement on the DL because of left shoulder inflammation. Corpas should be acquired for a short-term boost in saves until Huston Street, who has already hit 88 mph with little effort, is ready to return from his shoulder injury - possibly next Saturday.
  Joe Beimel and Randy Flores will cover any lefties that would have gone to Morales. This could mean a save chance or two should the matchup dictate it, but neither is worth fantasy attention.

Fantasy Baseball Closer Hot Seat: AL | NL

Fantasy baseball closer depth charts: AL | NL