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.

Mound meetings

• You sure you need saves?

  Aaron Heilman blew the save for the Arizona Diamondbacks yesterday. Heilman was called upon with runners on first and second, no outs, in the ninth. After fielding a bunt, Heilman threw to third to get the lead runner but missed the base. Heilman then induced two grounders, but only one resulted in an out. The second, hit to first, preceded a poor throw to home that allowed the tying and winning runs to score.
  None of the runs Heilman allowed were earned, but he's risky because his stuff doesn't translate to long-term success. The D-backs also want to re-insert Chad Qualls back into the role eventually. Keep an eye on Sam Demel, too.
• The Los Angeles Dodgers won't have use of Jonathan Broxton today. He'll have another day off after throwing 48 pitches Sunday. Manager Joe Torre said Hong-Chih Kuo would be his closer last night and followed up on his word by throwing him out there in the ninth. Kuo gave up one hit with one walk and one K in the inning. He is ratio help, too, and could snag another cheap save tonight.
• Atlanta Braves closer Billy Wagner should be back in his usual role after resting his sore left ankle. Wags was diagnosed with a pinched nerve. A cortisone shot, rest and some alterations to his shoes have helped relieve the pressure.
• Huston Street received his first inning of work in the ninth yesterday since returning to the Colorado Rockies' bullpen. Street surrendered one hit and struck out one. On Friday, manager Jim Tracy said Street likely would be his closer, but Tracy went with Manuel Corpas for the save that night.
  Last night, it would have been a save situation if not for Colorado scoring two runs in the top of the ninth. Street probably has his job back, but don't discount Corpas, for the short term, in any league types yet.

Fantasy Baseball Closer Hot Seat: AL | NL

Fantasy baseball closer depth charts: AL | NL