Top 10 Closers in MLB History

Baseball games often come down to the final outs, and no role is more pressure-packed than that of the closer. Tasked with slamming the door shut, the best closers thrive on adrenaline, precision, and nerves of steel. They enter the game when everything is on the line, and their success can define a team’s entire season.

Tricia Quitales
June 17, 2025
4 min read

Top 10 Closers in MLB History — © Lou Capozzola-Imagn Images

Closers are a special breed, often pitching in the most intense and high-leverage situations. While their innings are limited, the weight of their role cannot be overstated. The greatest in the game have combined control, intimidation, and consistency to finish games at the highest level. Whether it was with a blazing fastball or a devastating breaking pitch, these pitchers left their mark when it mattered most. Here’s a countdown of the top 10 closers in MLB history, ranked by performance, longevity, and impact.

10. Brian Wilson

Brian Wilson brought flair and fire to the closer role during his prime with the San Francisco Giants. His dominance in the 2010 season helped lead the team to a World Series title. Wilson was a three-time All-Star and posted a sub-2.00 ERA in back-to-back seasons. His trademark beard and big-game mentality made him a fan favorite and a feared presence on the mound.

9. Bruce Sutter

Bruce Sutter was a pioneer of the split-finger fastball and helped revolutionize modern relief pitching. He won the 1979 Cy Young Award and led the league in saves five times. Sutter finished his career with 300 saves and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2006. His impact was felt both on the field and in shaping the way closers approached the game.

8. John Franco

John Franco quietly built one of the most impressive résumés among MLB relievers. He collected 424 saves over a 21-year career, most of them with the New York Mets and Cincinnati Reds. Franco was known for his excellent changeup and consistency in the late innings. Though he never had overpowering stuff, his command and grit kept him effective for decades.

7. Billy Wagner

Billy Wagner’s fastball routinely hit 100 mph, making him one of the most intimidating left-handers in MLB history. He recorded 422 saves with a career ERA of 2.31 and over 1,100 strikeouts. Wagner was a seven-time All-Star who played key roles on several playoff teams. His power and longevity make him one of the most respected closers ever.

6. Craig Kimbrel

One of the most dominant closers of the 2010s, Craig Kimbrel burst onto the scene with the Atlanta Braves and has remained a force for over a decade. He has surpassed 400 career saves, been an eight-time All-Star, and won the 2011 NL Rookie of the Year. Kimbrel’s elite fastball and devastating curve made him nearly untouchable in his prime, and his strikeout rate ranks among the best in history.

5. Rollie Fingers

Rollie Fingers not only had one of the best mustaches in sports history but also one of the most dominant careers as a reliever. He won the 1981 AL MVP and Cy Young awards and was a seven-time All-Star. Fingers totaled 341 saves and played a key role in multiple World Series titles. His postseason success and early mastery of the closer role helped define the position.

4. Trevor Hoffman

Trevor Hoffman retired as the all-time saves leader at the time, with 601 saves and a 2.87 ERA over 18 seasons. His devastating changeup and calm demeanor made him one of the most reliable arms in baseball history. Hoffman was a seven-time All-Star and the first pitcher to reach 500 and 600 saves. His consistency and professionalism earned him a place in Cooperstown.

3. Dennis Eckersley

Dennis Eckersley reinvented himself as a closer after a successful career as a starter. In his relief role, he became nearly untouchable, winning both the MVP and Cy Young in 1992. Eckersley was known for his sharp control and fearless approach in high-pressure situations. His 390 saves and Hall of Fame career made him a model for future closers.

2. Goose Gossage

Goose Gossage pitched with intensity and power, often going multiple innings to secure victories. He racked up 310 saves in an era when closers were expected to do more than just pitch the ninth. Gossage struck out over 1,500 batters and was a nine-time All-Star. His fiery presence and ability to dominate big moments made him one of the toughest relievers in history.

1. Mariano Rivera

Mariano Rivera is the gold standard for closers, holding the all-time record with 652 saves and a career ERA of 2.21. His cut fastball was nearly impossible to square up, and he performed at his best in the postseason with a record 42 playoff saves. Rivera won five World Series titles with the Yankees and was the first player unanimously elected to the Hall of Fame. His excellence, class, and consistency make him the greatest closer in MLB history.