The Top 10 Closers with the Most Saves in MLB History

By Oliver Wiener May 16, 2024 06:05

The role of a closer in Major League Baseball (MLB) is crucial to a team's success.

These players are entrusted with protecting a lead in the late innings of a game, often facing the opposing team's best hitters.

As a result, the art of securing a save has become a defining measure of a pitcher's skill and impact on the game.

Here, we delve into the top 10 pitchers with the most saves in MLB history, celebrating their remarkable achievements and contributions to the sport.

1. Mariano Rivera

Mariano Rivera, widely regarded as one of the greatest closers of all time, tops the list with an astonishing 652 career saves.

Spending his entire 19-year career with the New York Yankees, Rivera's consistency, precision, and infamous cut fastball made him a legendary figure in the sport.

His impact extended beyond the stat sheet, as he played a pivotal role in the Yankees' five World Series victories during his tenure.

2. Trevor Hoffman

Trevor Hoffman's 601 career saves secure his position as the second-most prolific closer in MLB history.

Known for his devastating changeup, Hoffman spent the majority of his career with the San Diego Padres.

His on-field excellence and leadership qualities earned him widespread respect and admiration throughout his 18-year career.

3. Lee Smith

Lee Smith, a dominant force on the pitching mound, accumulated 478 saves during his illustrious career. The imposing right-hander played for eight different teams, leaving an indelible mark on each franchise he represented.

4. Francisco Rodriguez

Francisco Rodriguez, also known as "K-Rod," amassed 437 career saves, securing his place among the all-time greats in the closer role.

His unorthodox delivery and ability to perform under pressure made him a feared opponent on the mound. Rodriguez's impact on the game was felt through his remarkable consistency and resilience over his 16-year career.

5. John Franco

John Franco's 424 career saves highlight his exceptional longevity and effectiveness as a closer. Spending the majority of his career with the New York Mets, Franco became a revered figure in the sport due to his unwavering reliability in high-pressure situations.

6. Billy Wagner

Billy Wagner's 422 career saves solidify his status as one of the premier left-handed closers in MLB history. Known for his blistering fastball and exceptional command, Wagner's impact on the game was characterized by his ability to consistently shut down opposing lineups.

7. Dennis Eckersley

Dennis Eckersley, a trailblazer in the closer role, notched 390 career saves during his storied career.

Eckersley's transition from a starting pitcher to a dominant closer revolutionized the way the position was perceived and utilized in MLB.

His impact on the game extended far beyond his impressive save total, as he set a new standard for excellence and versatility on the pitching mound.

8. Joe Nathan

Joe Nathan's 377 career saves place him among the elite closers in MLB history. Known for his deceptive delivery and ability to command multiple pitches, Nathan's impact on the game was characterized by his remarkable consistency and durability over his 16-year career.

9. Jonathan Papelbon

Jonathan Papelbon's 368 career saves underscore his dominance and impact as a closer.

Papelbon's fiery demeanor and unwavering confidence made him a formidable presence on the mound, earning him widespread respect and admiration.

His impact on the game was felt through his ability to deliver in high-stakes situations and his unwavering commitment to excellence over his 12-year career.

10. Rollie Fingers

Rollie Fingers, a pioneer in the art of closing out games, amassed 341 career saves during his illustrious career. Known for his iconic handlebar mustache and precise pitching, Fingers' impact on the game transcended his impressive save total.

These pitchers with the most saves in MLB history have left an indelible mark on the sport through their exceptional skill, leadership, and resilience.

Their contributions have not only shaped the outcome of countless games but also redefined the art of closing out victories in Major League Baseball.