Sleeper Saves Sources: Early May

Many fantasy owners are rushing to their waiver wires to scour the free agents for the save category.  Since many current closers are on the shelf and recovering from injuries, some owners have fallen behind in their standings.

Here are a few of the names that you should keep an eye out for in your leagues.

LaTroy Hawkins, Relief Pitcher-Houston Astros

Hawkins will take over the closer role while Jose Valverde is injured.  Valverde could be out for additional time past his DL date, and the Astros reported today that he should be back at full strength in three weeks.

Bet the over on this one and grab Hawkins, as he could be a long term saves source from Houston.

Ryan Madson, Relief Pitcher-Philadelphia Phillies

Madson is an interesting addition in most leagues, but he is worth a gamble and a roster spot without a doubt.  While Brad Lidge is recovering from his knee injury, there is a chance that it could reaggraviate itself at any time.

Madson has proven to be an effective pitcher in relief, and his peripheral statistics (~13 K/9, 3.5 BB/9) make him a worthwhile speculative pickup in case Lidge’s injuries are more serious.

Juan Cruz, Relief Pitcher-Kansas City Royals

Yes, Joakim Soria is yet another elite closer that has been hit with the injury bug here.  He had issues with his throwing elbow.

Juan Cruz is a decent pickup in deeper leagues and AL-only formats, as he could turn a nice profit if Soria’s injury is reaggravated.

Have your fantasy rosters been hit with the injury bug to date this year?