The Rays entered 2026 with a vacant closer role after Pete Fairbanks left for the Marlins. Several relievers were considered, but Bryan Baker, acquired in a July 2025 trade, became the answer. He led the league with 41 saves, posted a 1.44 ERA over 65 innings, and dominated the playoffs by throwing three hitless innings with four strikeouts to clinch the ALDS against the Yankees. Baker’s rise began when Tampa Bay increased his changeup usage to over 43 percent, making it his primary pitch against right‑handers. The changeup, which had always been effective, became dominant, holding opponents to a .549 OPS. Even if his ERA moves back toward his expected level, Baker has established himself as one of the top closers in the American League.
