- 1Age: 54
Mariano Rivera's legendary career as a closer for the New York Yankees indisputably marked him as one of the greatest baseball catchers in history. The Panamanian-born pitcher mastered the art of the cut fastball, a pitch that baffled hitters across the league, resulting in an incredible number of saves and a reputation for being almost unhittable in high-pressure situations. Rivera's impact on the sport cannot be overstated, with his consistent dominance on the mound, his five World Series championships and his ability to elevate the Yankees closer role to new heights.
- 2Age: 73
Rich "Goose" Gossage, widely regarded as one of the pioneers of the closer role, dominated the Major Leagues throughout the 1970s and early 1980s. The intimidating right-hander hurled ferocious fastballs that often reached speeds over 100 mph, complemented by a devastating slider, which earned him a reputation for striking fear into the hearts of even the most seasoned hitters. Gossage's impact on the game can be seen through his nine All-Star appearances and his critical role in ending the Yankees' 15-year championship drought in 1978.
- 3Age: 57
Trevor Hoffman, known for his masterful changeup and unflappable demeanor, remains one of the most respected closers in the history of professional baseball. The California-born right-hander held the MLB record for total saves at the time of his retirement, leaving a lasting impression through clutch performances and consistency that solidified him as a key contributor to the successes of the San Diego Padres and Milwaukee Brewers. Hoffman's excellence and dedication to his craft have left an indelible mark on the closer role.
- 4Age: 70
Dennis Eckersley's seamless transition from a top-tier starting pitcher to a dominant closer set the bar for versatility and excellence in the MLB. Known for his pinpoint accuracy and devastating slider, Eckersley's conversion to the bullpen after a middling period with the Chicago Cubs allowed him to reinvent himself, becoming the centerpiece of the Oakland Athletics' dominant late-'80s and early '90s squads. His longevity in the sport – spanning over two decades – and ability to excel in multiple roles remains an enduring testament to his greatness.
- 5Age: 78
Rollie Fingers, with his iconic handlebar mustache and almost surgical precision on the mound, emerged as one of the pioneers of the closer role during the 1970s. Fingers' signature pitch, the forkball, helped him confound opposing hitters while securing multiple championships for the Oakland Athletics and the Milwaukee Brewers. More than just a standout player, Fingers became a symbol of the growing importance and specialization of the relief pitcher in modern baseball.
- 6Age: 71
Bruce Sutter's career as a closer was defined by his mastery of the split-finger fastball, a pitch that continues to perplex batters today. The right-handed pitcher's revolutionary approach to the role made him a crucial weapon for the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals, leading both teams to numerous postseason appearances. Sutter's impact on the sport resonates through his unique skillset and his undeniable influence on the evolution of the closer position.
- 7Age: 57
John Smoltz's extraordinary MLB career saw him excel as both a starting pitcher and a closer, making him one of the most versatile players to grace the sport. The right-hander's repertoire included a devastating slider and pinpoint fastball that brought success to the Atlanta Braves organization for nearly two decades. Smoltz's adaptability and willingness to embrace new roles only served to heighten his already impressive legacy within the game of baseball.
- 8Dec. at 25 (1957-1983)
Lee Smith's imposing presence on the mound was matched only by his consistent ability to dominate opposing hitters, making him one of the most feared closers in MLB history. Equipped with a powerful fastball and a devastating slider, Smith's lengthy career saw him excel for multiple franchises, including the Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals, and Baltimore Orioles. His sustained excellence and unwavering passion for the game have etched his name among the pantheon of great relief pitchers.
- 9Dec. at 45 (1953-1998)
Dan Quisenberry's unusual submarine delivery and pinpoint control made him one of the most innovative and effective closers in baseball history. The right-hander's unique style and uncanny ability to generate groundball outs served as a catalyst for the Kansas City Royals' successes during the 1980s. Quisenberry's unorthodox approach to the closer role provides an enduring reminder of the importance of creativity and adaptability in the ever-evolving game of baseball.
- 10
Kenley Jansen
Age: 37Kenley Jansen's imposing frame, fierce cutter, and competitive fire have made him one of the foremost closers in the game today. The native Curaçaoan has become a fixture for the Los Angeles Dodgers, closing out games with ruthless efficiency and a sense of unyielding determination. As Jansen's career progresses, he will undoubtedly continue to build upon his already remarkable legacy within the storied Dodgers organization.
- 11Age: 53
Billy Wagner's impressive career can be best summarized by three elements: power, precision, and southpaw prowess. His left-handed delivery and ability to consistently hit triple digits on the radar gun made him a nightmare for opposing batters while providing a much-needed spark for teams like the Houston Astros, Philadelphia Phillies, and New York Mets. Wagner's trailblazing career as a southpaw reliever showcased the importance of diverse skillsets within the closer role.
- 12Age: 36
Craig Kimbrel, with his distinctive pre-pitch stance and arsenal of overpowering pitches, has emerged as a premier closer in today's game. His devastating fastball-slider combination has been key to his success with the Atlanta Braves, San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox, and Chicago Cubs, solidifying his reputation as a reliable, high-impact reliever. Kimbrel's continued dominance and unmistakable passion for the game have left an indelible mark on the closer role, inspiring a new generation of relief pitchers.
- 13Age: 36
Aroldis Chapman, the Cuban flamethrower, has quickly established himself as one of the most dominant closers in all of baseball. With a fastball that frequently surpasses 100 mph, Chapman has been nearly unhittable throughout his career, serving as a critical asset to teams like the Cincinnati Reds, New York Yankees, and Chicago Cubs. As he continues to play at the highest level, Chapman's electric presence on the mound will undoubtedly continue to leave a mark on the game and inspire future generations of pitchers.
- 14Age: 80
Sparky Lyle, the bulldog left-hander with an unparalleled mastery of the slider, ranks among the great closers of baseball's past. Lyle's grit, guile, and incomparable breaking ball made him a stalwart for the New York Yankees and Philadelphia Phillies during the 1970s, helping to pave the way for future generations of standout relief pitchers. His lasting impact on the sport can be seen in the way he combined determination, skill, and unwavering confidence to redefine the closer position.
- 15Dec. at 80 (1922-2002)
Hoyt Wilhelm's mastery of the knuckleball made him one of the most enduring and effective relief pitchers in baseball history. Over a career spanning more than two decades, Wilhelm confounded opposing batters with his unpredictable pitch, becoming an invaluable asset for numerous MLB teams, including the New York Giants, Baltimore Orioles, and Chicago White Sox. His longevity and consistent excellence serve as an inspiring example to subsequent generations of pitchers navigating the challenges of the closer role.
- 16Dec. at 59 (1944-2004)
Tug McGraw's iconic rallying cry, "Ya Gotta Believe," encapsulates the heart, soul, and determination that made him one of the most beloved closers in the history of baseball. His screwball pitch, relentless drive, and uncanny ability to perform in high-pressure situations helped secure championships for both the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies. Tug's legacy extends far beyond his on-field achievements, as his passion and charisma continue to inspire countless fans and players alike.
- 17Age: 64
John Franco's storied career was marked by his tenacity, guile, and a devastating changeup that left opposing hitters guessing. The left-handed reliever's mastery of his craft led to great success with the Cincinnati Reds and New York Mets, solidifying his reputation as one of the most accomplished closers of his generation. Franco's unwavering determination and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations stand as an enduring testament to his impact on the game.
- 18Age: 69
Jeff Reardon, nicknamed "The Terminator," was renowned for his steely resolve and arsenal of overpowering pitches, including a biting curveball and a blazing fastball. The right-handed closer's consistent excellence over his 16-year career, which included successful stints with the Montreal Expos, Minnesota Twins, and Boston Red Sox, made him a fixture in late-inning battles across the league. Reardon's unyielding determination and ability to terminate opponents' rallies helped solidify his place among the game's elite relief pitchers.
- 19Age: 67
Jesse Orosco's longevity and consistency throughout his 24-year career made him one of the most respected relief pitchers in Major League history. The left-hander's devastating slider and pinpoint control allowed him to excel in a variety of relief roles, including closer, for a multitude of teams such as the New York Mets, Baltimore Orioles, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Orosco's endurance and professionalism serve as an enduring example to aspiring pitchers of the importance of perseverance and adapting to evolving roles.
- 20Age: 48
Éric Gagné, the hard-throwing Québécois, took the baseball world by storm with his electrifying performances as the Los Angeles Dodgers' closer during the early 2000s. Armed with an array of high-velocity pitches, including his signature fastball-changeup combination, Gagné spent several seasons as one of the most dominant relievers in the game. His passion, intensity, and unforgettable mound presence left a lasting impression on fans and players alike.
- 21Age: 96
Roy Face, an innovator in the art of the relief pitcher, left a lasting impression on the game with his tenaciousness, durability, and signature forkball. As one of the first true relief specialists, Face's success in closing out games for the Pittsburgh Pirates during the 1950s and '60s demonstrated the importance of a dedicated bullpen. His pioneering contributions to the closer role continue to shape the modern game and inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
- 22Age: 77
Kent Tekulve, a lanky right-hander with a submarine delivery, carved out a memorable career as one of the most reliable relievers of his era. His unorthodox pitching style and propensity for inducing groundballs contributed greatly to the success of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Philadelphia Phillies during the late '70s and '80s. Tekulve's perseverance and unique approach to the closer role helped pave the way for a new generation of innovative relief pitchers.
- 23Age: 65
Dave Righetti, a versatile left-handed pitcher who excelled as both a starter and a closer, became known for his resilience, adaptability, and competitive spirit. After transitioning to the bullpen, Righetti thrived as the New York Yankees' closer, baffling hitters with his sharp slider and well-located fastball. His successful career serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing new roles and the rewards that come from perseverance and flexibility.
24Age: 66Tom Henke, affectionately known as "The Terminator," brought an imposing presence to the mound as one of the premier closers of the 1980s and '90s. The tall right-hander's imposing fastball and devastating forkball made him an invaluable component of the Toronto Blue Jays and Texas Rangers, helping both teams achieve significant success during his tenure. Henke's skillset and unwavering commitment to his craft helped define the closer role for the modern era of baseball.
- 25Age: 42
Francisco Rodríguez, known as "K-Rod," burst onto the MLB scene with his electrifying fastball and wicked curveball, quickly establishing himself as one of the game's most dominant closers. The Venezuelan right-hander's flair for the dramatic and ability to thrive in high-pressure situations made him an invaluable asset for teams like the Anaheim Angels, New York Mets, and Milwaukee Brewers. Rodríguez's passionate approach to the game continues to captivate fans and influence future generations of relief pitchers.
- 26Age: 81
Mike Marshall's ironman work ethic and prowess on the mound made him one of the most dependable and versatile relief pitchers of his era. The right-hander's ability to pitch in various roles, from long-reliever to closer, made him an indispensable part of the Los Angeles Dodgers' and Montreal Expos' success during the 1970s. Marshall's unique combination of durability and adaptability remains an inspiration for subsequent generations of pitchers seeking to excel in multiple facets of the game.
- 27Age: 58
John Wetteland, known for his fiery competitiveness and a fastball that could melt bats, spent the better part of a decade as one of the game's premier closers. With successful stints for the Montreal Expos, New York Yankees, and Texas Rangers, Wetteland's consistency and clutch performances in high-pressure situations became the stuff of legend. His impact on the game persists through the standard he set for future closers, illustrating the importance of composure and determination on the mound.
- 28Age: 65
Todd Worrell, a hard-throwing right-hander, emerged as one of the most dependable and versatile closers of his time. With successful stints on the St. Louis Cardinals and Los Angeles Dodgers, Worrell's command of multiple pitches provided a blueprint for subsequent relief pitchers to follow. His ability to adapt to different roles and situations on the mound left a lasting impact on the closer role and the strategic use of relievers in the game.
- 29Age: 62
Randy Myers, a hard-nosed southpaw with a devastating slider, was one of the most effective and intimidating closers of the 1990s. A key component of the Cincinnati Reds' fearsome "Nasty Boys" bullpen, Myers also found success with the San Diego Padres, Chicago Cubs, and Baltimore Orioles. His tenacity, aggressive mound presence, and unwavering commitment to his craft left an indelible mark on the closer role and set a high bar for future relievers to follow.
- 30Age: 69
Willie Hernández, known for his devastating screwball, was one of the most dominant closers of the 1980s. The Puerto Rican left-hander excelled with the Detroit Tigers and Philadelphia Phillies, using his unique pitching repertoire to befuddle opposing hitters. Hernández's success on the mound serves as a testament to the importance of embracing unconventional styles and adapting to the evolving landscape of baseball.
- 31Dec. at 38 (1968-2007)
Rod Beck, affectionately known as "Shooter," brought an unmistakable passion and intensity to the mound throughout his career as a dominant closer. The right-hander's high-velocity fastball and sharp slider made him an integral part of the San Francisco Giants, Chicago Cubs, and Boston Red Sox bullpens during the 1990s. Beck's fearless demeanor and unshakable confidence serve as a lasting reminder of the importance of mental fortitude in the closer role.
- 32Age: 55
Troy Percival's unyielding intensity and overpowering repertoire, including a high-90s fastball and knee-buckling curveball, made him one of the most dominant closers of his era. The right-hander spent the majority of his career with the Anaheim Angels, playing a crucial role in their 2002 World Series championship run and solidifying his place in the team's lore. Percival's lasting impact on the game is evident through his passion and unwavering commitment to excellence, providing an example for future generations of closers to emulate.
- 33Age: 61
Bobby Thigpen's grit and determination, coupled with a high-velocity fastball and a biting slider, helped establish him as one of the top closers during the late 1980s and early '90s. The right-hander found great success with the Chicago White Sox, becoming an instrumental figure in solidifying the importance of a dependable late-inning reliever. Thigpen's legacy endures through his tenacity and impact on the evolution of the closer role.
- 34Age: 43
Jonathan Papelbon, an intense and fiery competitor, set the standard for modern closers with his overpowering fastball and devastating splitter. The right-hander was an instrumental part of the Boston Red Sox's success in the late 2000s, including their 2007 World Series championship run. Papelbon's emotional approach to the closer role and his consistency in high-pressure situations continue to serve as an inspiration for future generations of relief pitchers.
- 35Age: 49
Joe Nathan, known for his smooth delivery and pinpoint control, established himself as one of the game's premier closers during the 2000s. With successful tenures on the Minnesota Twins, Texas Rangers, and San Francisco Giants, Nathan's consistency and ability to thrive under pressure set an example for future relief pitchers. His unrelenting pursuit of excellence left a lasting impact on the closer role and solidified his status as one of the game's greats.
- 36Age: 75
Al Hrabosky, the "Mad Hungarian," became a fan favorite for his colorful personality and fiery competitive spirit that made him one of the most memorable closers in baseball history. The left-handed pitcher mixed an explosive fastball with a deceptive slider, helping the St. Louis Cardinals and Kansas City Royals secure crucial victories during the 1970s. Hrabosky's larger-than-life persona provided an enduring blueprint for the flamboyant and passionate closers that followed in his wake.
- 37Dec. at 62 (1917-1980)
Joe Page, nicknamed "The Gay Reliever," was one of the earliest pioneers of the closer role in the post-war era. The hard-throwing left-hander played a crucial part in the success of the New York Yankees during the late 1940s, baffling hitters with his powerful fastball and sharp curveball. Page's groundbreaking impact on relief pitching and his contributions to the development of the closer role remain an essential part of baseball history.
- 38Age: 42
Brian Wilson, with his trademark bushy black beard and eccentric personality, became a fan favorite and dominant closer during his time with the San Francisco Giants. The right-hander's electric fastball-slider combination helped the Giants secure their first World Series championship in over half a century in 2010. Wilson's blend of on-field excellence and off-field charisma left a lasting impression on the game and inspired a new generation of colorful and passionate closers.
- 39Age: 59
Mitch Williams, known as "Wild Thing" for his unpredictable pitching style, enjoyed a memorable career as a closer during the late 1980s and early '90s. The erratic left-hander found success with the Texas Rangers, Chicago Cubs, and Philadelphia Phillies, using his unorthodox delivery and high-velocity fastball to keep hitters off-balance. Williams's distinctive approach to the closer role and his on-field intensity serve as a testament to the importance of embracing individuality in the game of baseball.
- 40Age: 54
Robb Nen, a hard-throwing right-hander with a deceptive slider, emerged as one of the most reliable closers of the late 1990s and early 2000s. The son of former MLB player Dick Nen, Robb excelled with the Florida Marlins and San Francisco Giants, helping both teams reach the World Series. Nen's commitment to his craft and ability to deliver in critical situations earned him a lasting legacy within the game.
- 41Dec. at 61 (1908-1970)
Johnny Murphy, a key member of the New York Yankees dynasty during the 1930s and early '40s, was one of the first great relief pitchers in MLB history. Known for his fastball and ability to pitch effectively in high-pressure situations, Murphy solidified his place as a groundbreaking figure in the evolution of the relief pitcher. His contributions to the closer role and the strategic use of relievers continue to influence the game today.
- 42Age: 66
Steve Bedrosian, known as "Bedrock," was a fierce competitor and a reliable closer during the 1980s and early '90s. Combining a powerful fastball with a sharp-breaking slider, Bedrosian found success with the Atlanta Braves, Philadelphia Phillies, and San Francisco Giants. His unwavering drive to succeed and ability to excel under pressure have earned him a lasting place in the pantheon of great relief pitchers.
- 43Age: 44
Rafael Soriano, a hard-throwing right-hander with a wicked slider, established himself as a reliable closer during his time with the Seattle Mariners, Atlanta Braves, Tampa Bay Rays, New York Yankees, and Washington Nationals. The Dominican-born pitcher was known for his poise on the mound, consistently delivering in high-stakes situations throughout his career. Soriano's dedication to his craft and unwavering consistency have left a lasting mark on the closer role.
- 44Age: 59Roberto Hernández may refer to:
- 45Age: 46
José Valverde, known as "Papa Grande," brought a unique combination of energy and charisma to the closer role during the late 2000s and early 2010s. The right-hander's high-velocity fastball and splitter made him a key weapon for the Arizona Diamondbacks, Houston Astros, and Detroit Tigers. Valverde's passionate approach to the game and larger-than-life persona provided a lasting example for what it means to be a successful and entertaining closer in the modern era.
- 46Age: 47
Brad Lidge's tenacity and high-velocity fastball-slider combination made him a dominant closer during the mid-2000s. The right-hander played a key role in the Houston Astros' and Philadelphia Phillies' success, helping lead the Phillies to their first World Series title in 28 years in 2008. Lidge's clutch performances in high-pressure situations cemented his reputation as a dependable late-inning option and left a lasting impression on the game.
- 47Age: 76
Gene Garber, known for his signature submarine delivery and deceptive changeup, enjoyed a successful career as a dependable reliever during the 1970s and '80s. The right-hander's unique style and dedication to his craft made him an invaluable asset for the Atlanta Braves, Philadelphia Phillies, and Kansas City Royals. Garber's unorthodox approach to pitching helped pave the way for future generations of innovative relief pitchers.
- 48Age: 52Jason Derik Isringhausen ( born September 7, 1972) is an American former professional baseball pitcher and coach. He pitched in Major League Baseball from 1995 through 2012 for the New York Mets, Oakland Athletics, St. Louis Cardinals, Tampa Bay Rays, and Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Isringhausen was, with Bill Pulsipher and Paul Wilson, a member of "Generation K", a group of highly regarded Mets prospects. Isringhausen proceeded to have a successful career as a relief pitcher, recording exactly 300 career saves. He was a two-time All-Star and led the National League in saves in 2004.
- 49Age: 73
Greg Minton, affectionately known as "Moon Man," was a dependable closer for the San Francisco Giants and California Angels during the 1980s. The right-hander's signature pitch, the sinker, kept opposing hitters off balance, allowing him to excel in high-pressure situations. Minton's fearlessness on the mound and unique approach to the closer role made him an essential part of his teams' success.
- 50Age: 49Francisco Javier Cordero (born May 11, 1975) is a Dominican former professional baseball pitcher. He played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Detroit Tigers, Texas Rangers, Milwaukee Brewers, Cincinnati Reds, Toronto Blue Jays, and Houston Astros from 1999 through 2012, often serving as the closer. On June 1, 2011, Cordero recorded his 300th career save with the Reds, becoming only the 22nd player to reach that mark. He completed his major league career with 329 saves and is a three-time MLB All-Star. Cordero is frequently referred to by his nickname, CoCo, which is a combination of the last two letters of his first name and the first two letters of his last name. Cordero's arsenal featured a mid-90s fastball and wipe-out slider. He attended Colegio Luz Arroyo Hondo High School in the Dominican Republic.
- 51Age: 67Douglas Reid Jones (born June 24, 1957) is a former Major League Baseball relief pitcher. During a 16-year career, he played for the Milwaukee Brewers (1982, 1996–1998), Cleveland Indians (1986–1991, 1998), Baltimore Orioles (1995), and Oakland Athletics (1999–2000), all of the American League, and the Houston Astros (1992–1993), Philadelphia Phillies (1994), and Chicago Cubs (1996) of the National League. Jones was selected by the Brewers in the third round of the 1978 MLB draft, and spent seven years in their minor league system. His only major league experience was four games in 1982. He was released after the 1984 season, and he signed with the Indians. He became the Indians' full-time closer by 1988, breaking the Indians' record for saves in a season with 37. He held the Indians' all-time record for saves with 129 until Bob Wickman broke it on May 7, 2006.Jones threw an immaculate inning during a saves on September 23, 1997 by striking out Johnny Damon, Scott Cooper and Rod Myers of the Kansas City Royals.Jones announced his retirement on December 7, 2000. His 303 career save ranked 12th in major league history upon his retirement, and his 846 career appearances ranked 21st. A changeup specialist, he was known for keeping hitters off balance by throwing extremely slow pitches. He threw a two-seam fastball that topped out in the low-to-mid 80s and a knuckle curve on occasion.He was elected to the American League All-Star team three times (1988, 1989 and 1990) and to the National League All-Star team twice (1992 and 1994). He was the oldest player in the majors in 2000 at the age of 43. On January 22, 2015, he was named pitching coach for the Boise Hawks, a minor league affiliate of the Colorado Rockies.
- 52Age: 58
Though primarily known for his incredible accomplishments as a starting pitcher, Greg Maddux occasionally showcased his versatility by stepping into the closer role when called upon. The cerebral right-hander possessed an uncanny ability to locate his pitches with precision, keeping hitters off balance with his array of fastballs, changeups, and curveballs. Maddux's adaptability and willingness to embrace different roles on the mound serve as an example for pitchers navigating the ever-changing landscape of baseball.
- 53Dec. at 70 (1940-2011)
Woodie Fryman, a versatile southpaw, enjoyed a lengthy career in Major League Baseball as both a starter and a reliever. The left-hander found success as a closer later in his career, utilizing his sinker and curveball to stifle opposing hitters. Fryman's adaptability and commitment to honing his craft serve as an enduring reminder of the importance of embracing new roles and challenges on the mound.
- 54Age: 84
Dave Giusti, a crafty right-hander with a masterful repertoire, became one of the most effective closers of the late '60s and early '70s. His signature pitch, the palmball, kept hitters guessing as he excelled in closing out games for the Pittsburgh Pirates, St. Louis Cardinals, and Houston Astros. Giusti's innovative approach to pitching helped shape the evolution of the closer role and inspired future generations of pitchers to develop unique skillsets.
- 55Age: 58José Ramón Nova Mesa (Spanish: [xoˈse ˈmesa]; born May 22, 1966) is a Dominican professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball from 1987 through 2007. He played for the Baltimore Orioles, Cleveland Indians, San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, Philadelphia Phillies, Pittsburgh Pirates, Colorado Rockies, and Detroit Tigers. He retired with 321 career saves. Mesa was a two-time MLB All-Star and won the American League (AL) Rolaids Relief Man Award in 1995, when he led the AL in saves. His nickname was "Joe Table", the literal translation of his name in the English language.
- 56Age: 58Jeffrey Lee Shaw (born July 7, 1966) is an American former professional baseball relief pitcher, who played Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Cleveland Indians and Chicago White Sox of the American League (AL), and the Montreal Expos, Cincinnati Reds, and Los Angeles Dodgers of the National League (NL), during a 12-year career from 1990 to 2001. His son, Travis Shaw, is an infielder for the (NL) Milwaukee Brewers.
- 57Age: 47Heath Justin Bell (born September 29, 1977) is an American former professional baseball relief pitcher. As a closer with the San Diego Padres from 2009 to 2011, Bell was a three-time All-Star and twice won the Rolaids Relief Man Award. He was also awarded the DHL Delivery Man of the Year Award and The Sporting News Reliever of the Year Award. Bell played multiple sports, including baseball, in high school. He moved on to community college, where he was an All-American. He began his professional career with the New York Mets, making his major league debut in 2004, and spending three seasons at both the minor and major league levels. In 2007, he was traded to San Diego, where he was a setup man before replacing Trevor Hoffman as the Padres' closer. From 2010 through 2011, Bell successfully converted 41 straight save opportunities, which tied Hoffman's team record. A free agent after the 2011 season, he signed with the Miami Marlins, and later played with the Arizona Diamondbacks and Tampa Bay Rays. He retired before the 2015 season.
- 58Age: 56Todd Barton Jones (born April 24, 1968) is a former Major League Baseball relief pitcher. He batted left-handed and threw right-handed. He was an effective middle reliever for a variety of teams, and he had an up-and-down career as a closer. On September 16, 2007, Jones became the 21st member of the 300-save club and later ended his career as the Detroit Tigers' all-time leader in saves.
- 59Age: 63Michael Ausley Maddux (born August 27, 1961) is an American professional baseball pitching coach and former pitcher, who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for nine teams, over 15 seasons. He is now the pitching coach for the St. Louis Cardinals. Maddux played in MLB from 1986 through 2000 for the Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, New York Mets, Pittsburgh Pirates, Boston Red Sox, Seattle Mariners, Montreal Expos, and Houston Astros. Except for the Phillies, for whom he played during the first four seasons of his career, he never played more than two seasons for any team. Maddux has served as pitching coach for the Milwaukee Brewers, Texas Rangers, Washington Nationals, and Cardinals. The teams for which he has coached have allowed significantly fewer runs to score than before his hire. While coaching for the Rangers, the pitching staff posted season earned run averages (ERA) lower than 4.00 for the first time since 1990, doing so for four consecutive seasons. The Nationals hired him after the 2015 season, and the Cardinals hired him after the 2017 season.
- 60Age: 61David Lee Wells (born May 20, 1963), nicknamed "Boomer", is an American former Major League Baseball pitcher. Wells was considered to be one of the game's better left-handed pitchers, especially during his years with the New York Yankees and the Toronto Blue Jays. He pitched the 15th perfect game in baseball history. He is tied only with Kenny Lofton for appearing in the post-season with six teams. Wells is currently a broadcaster on MLB on TBS and the host of The Cheap Seats on FOXSports.com.
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