Daniel Palencia

Palencia took over closing duties for the Cubs last May and was lights out in the role, pitching to a 2.12 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and 59:15 K:BB across his first 51 appearances before a strained right shoulder sidelined him for a few weeks in September. The 25-year-old was the only Cubs pitcher to record double-digits saves (22), good for a 50 percent team save share. Palencia also finished third among relievers with a 99.6 mph average fastball velocity; a pitch he tossed 71 percent of the time while occasionally mixing in a slider and splitter. Upon his return from injury, the right-hander pitched earlier in games, but he was deployed in important spots during the playoffs. Pencil him atop the Cubs' closer hierarchy for now, but keep in mind the team's front office will need to re-tool this pen after losing several key relievers to free agency. Chicago could sign a reliever or two with more closing experience, relegating Palencia to the highest-leverage moments earlier in games. Read Past Outlooks