Dennis Santana DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Pittsburgh Pirates right-handed reliever Dennis Santana was handed the first save chance for the Pirates on Wednesday against the hosting Tampa Bay Rays since they demoted former closer David Bednar to the minors this week, and Santana capitalized by closing the door to earn his first save of 2025. The 28-year-old didn't allow a hit while walking one in his fourth appearance of the season. Colin Holderman pitched the eighth frame in the 4-2 victory and allowed a run. While things could change quickly in the back end of Pittsburgh's bullpen, Santana has to be considered the favorite for most of the team's save opportunities moving forward, so fantasy managers scrounging for saves in deeper leagues should take notice. After struggling to begin last year with the Yankees, Santana altered his approach and showed much better control in Pittsburgh.