Mariano Rivera.

BY ROB SHAW

sportsnet.ca

When it comes to drafting closers, go for quantity over quality.

Last season I didn't draft a single closer within the first nine rounds and yet I still led the league in saves thanks to the good fortune of Brian Fuentes, Trevor Hoffman, Brian Wilson, and Jason Frasor.

The last thing you want to do is put all of your eggs in one basket by drafting just one big time closer. Look for low scoring teams that will likely win by three or fewer runs on a regular basis such as the Rockies, Royals, or Mariners. These are the teams with closers to target in the later rounds of your fantasy draft.

Top Closers

1) Mariano Rivera, RP, Yankees

Call me crazy, but I'm sticking with the 39-year-old future Hall of Famer. How could you not after he dominated with 44 saves, 72 Ks, and a 1.76 ERA? The Yankees are expected to compete for a World Series with an even better team this season, which should translate into plenty of saves for Rivera.

2) Jonathan Papelbon, RP, Red Sox

Despite some well-publicized blown saves, Papelbon did shut the door for 38 saves and a terrific 1.85 ERA last season.

3) Jonathan Broxton, RP, Dodgers

His 114 strikeouts set him apart from other closers, but Broxton has had his problems with 14 blown saves over the last two seasons.

4) Joe Nathan, RP, Twins

The second best closer over the last few years has some elbow woes that may prove costly this season. Before drafting the Twins closer read up on the latest injury report.

5) Joakim Soria, RP, Royals

If the Royals offence could get its act together, Joakim Soria could reach 40-plus saves for the second time in three years. He offers plenty of strikeouts and a fine WHIP as the second best pitcher in Kansas City.

6) Francisco Rodriguez, RP, Mets

Similar to just about every other Mets talent, 2009 was a disappointment for this much-heralded closer. The hope is that everyone returns to health, giving K-Rod a shot at reaching 45-plus saves and fine all-around production.

7) Andrew Bailey, RP, A's

Fresh off a fine rookie performance, Andrew Bailey will be the anchor in the A's bullpen. That should lead to 35-plus saves and a fine ERA.

8) Huston Street, RP, Rockies

He has been erratic in the past and calls Coors Field home, but not to panic, Street has improved his control and should get plenty of save opportunities for the team's impressive rotation.

9) Heath Bell, RP, Padres

He may be a bit overrated, but pitching in Petco Park usually limits the damage for hurlers. To his credit, Bell made Padres fans forget about Padres legend Trevor Hoffman thanks to 42 saves and a 2.71 ERA last season.

10) David Aardsma, RP, Mariners

My sleeper pick for the closer gig is David Aardsma. It's not that he's so good, but more so the fact that the Mariners play a lot of close games, have a great rotation, and a fine pitcher's ballpark. The result should be 45-plus saves from the former first-round pick out of Rice.