In a recent study by Tourism Australia, Bate Bay in southern Sydney has been named the best destination for those seeking a peaceful coastal retreat. Among the top 10 beaches listed for 2026, Bate Bay stands out due to its tranquility and unspoiled natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for a quiet escape. With its sprawling 4.8-kilometre stretch of sand and calm ocean pools, this coastal haven offers visitors a unique opportunity to unwind and experience Australia’s serene beachside lifestyle.
Tourism Australia’s 2026 list was compiled after an extensive survey of over 12,500 beaches across the nation. The evaluation, which was conducted by Beach Ambassador Brad Farmer, considered multiple factors, including accessibility, natural beauty, and the ability to offer a ‘slow-travel’ experience. Bate Bay earned its spot at the top for its pristine environment and the peaceful atmosphere it provides.
A Tranquil Coastal Experience
Bate Bay, located in the heart of Cronulla, New South Wales, is home to nine stunning beaches, including some of Sydney’s longest, like the iconic Greenhills, Wanda, and Elouera beaches. This area is not only known for its scenic coastline but also for its quiet charm. It is a perfect example of Australia’s commitment to preserving its natural landscapes while offering accessible coastal experiences. As noted by Brad Farmer, the beaches of Bate Bay are relatively untouched by large crowds, making them ideal for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.
What sets Bate Bay apart is its blend of natural beauty and practical amenities. The area features four ocean pools, which are perfect for swimming and relaxing in the clear waters without the disturbance of waves. Gunnamatta Bay’s still-water bathing enclosure provides a peaceful spot for those preferring calm waters. The tranquil surroundings are complemented by the easy accessibility from the city centre via train, making it an attractive option for both local and international visitors seeking a quick retreat into nature.
The Criteria for Choosing Australia’s Quietest Beaches
Tourism Australia’s top 10 list was curated with a special focus on “quiet” beaches. Brad Farmer explains that the primary criterion for selecting these beaches was their ability to offer a peaceful, unhurried experience. In contrast to more tourist-heavy spots, these beaches maintain a calm ambiance, where visitors can enjoy the soothing sounds of the waves and the wind, rather than the noise of large crowds. Farmer highlights remote locations like Beachcomber Cove and Hellfire Bay, which are noted for their “slow-travel” appeal, inviting tourists to immerse themselves in nature and reflect on the area’s rich First Nations history.
These beaches are more than just quiet; they also hold cultural significance. Many, like those in Bate Bay, are steeped in stories passed down by the First Nations peoples, adding a layer of cultural depth to the experience. These factors combined make them a unique choice for those looking to escape the demands of modern life and reconnect with nature.
Promoting Regional Tourism and Economic Growth
In his comments, Tourism Minister Senator Don Farrell emphasized the role of regional beaches in boosting local economies. The quiet, undisturbed beauty of these beaches offers an opportunity to draw visitors away from the traditional tourist hotspots, thereby supporting local businesses and creating jobs in regional areas. Farrell also noted that the flow of American tourists to Australia had never been stronger, with 745,000 Americans visiting the country in the previous year and spending over $2 billion. Tourism Australia aims to capitalize on this interest by promoting lesser-known destinations, such as Bate Bay, which offer authentic and peaceful experiences.
As Robin Mack, Managing Director of Tourism Australia, mentioned, the annual list of top beaches not only serves as a guide for visitors but also helps raise awareness about the importance of preserving Australia’s coastal ecosystems. It encourages travelers to explore areas outside of the usual hotspots, promoting sustainable tourism and contributing to the growth of regional tourism.
Other Notable Beaches in Australia’s Top 10 List
Aside from Bate Bay, other notable beaches that made the cut include Pinky Beach in Western Australia, Beachcomber Cove in Queensland, and Tallow Beach in New South Wales. These destinations, like Bate Bay, offer visitors a chance to experience the serenity and natural beauty of Australia’s coastline. Each location has been carefully selected for its ability to provide a quiet escape, where visitors can enjoy the simplicity of nature without distractions.
Hellfire Bay in Western Australia and Godfreys Beach in Tasmania also made the list, standing out for their remote charm and the sense of peace they offer. For those looking to explore other parts of Australia, these locations provide unique opportunities to enjoy the country’s diverse natural landscapes.
A Sustainable Future for Australia’s Beaches
As more travelers seek out sustainable and quiet destinations, Australia’s beaches are becoming increasingly important for promoting eco-tourism. The country’s pristine coastline, from the quiet bays of Bate Bay to the rugged beauty of the Tasmanian beaches, plays a significant role in attracting environmentally-conscious visitors. By highlighting lesser-known beaches, Tourism Australia is helping to balance tourism growth with environmental sustainability, ensuring that these beautiful locations remain untouched by overdevelopment.
The effort to promote these quiet escapes also ties into broader global tourism trends, where travelers are increasingly looking for experiences that allow them to slow down, disconnect, and appreciate nature’s simplicity. The beauty of Bate Bay and its fellow beaches lies not only in their physical characteristics but also in their ability to offer a retreat from the stresses of daily life, making them a perfect choice for those seeking a peaceful escape in 2026 and beyond.
Conclusion
With its breathtaking coastline, accessible location, and serene atmosphere, Bate Bay in southern Sydney has rightfully earned its place as the best beach for a quiet escape in Australia. Tourism Australia’s list for 2026 highlights the country’s commitment to showcasing its diverse and pristine coastal landscapes, encouraging travelers to venture beyond the typical tourist destinations and experience the beauty of lesser-known beaches. These tranquil locations, like Bate Bay, not only offer peace and solitude but also support the growth of regional tourism and provide sustainable travel options for future generations. As more travelers seek out slow-travel experiences, Australia’s quiet escapes are poised to become even more popular, offering a refuge where nature and history come together in perfect harmony.
Do we invest in a high pick? Or do we wait it out and pray we get lucky? For the purposes of this article, I am going to focus on the guys projected to get the most saves in 2026. Players currently with a path to saves will be ranked higher than some higher-skilled options who are clearly sitting behind an incumbent closer. My formula is pretty simple: I focus on a combination of who has the skills, currently has the job, who has the least competition behind him, and which players are on teams in a position to win the most games. Let’s take a look at our top relief pitcher options for fantasy baseball in 2026.
Oct 1, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; San Diego Padres pitcher Mason Miller (22) delivers during the seventh inning against the Chicago Cubs during game two of the Wildcard round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
Somebody has to be #1, so it might as well be the guy who has been drafted the highest so far this season. You can’t argue with a guy who features a 100 mph fastball and has piled up 100+ Ks for two straight years. He’s going to be the Padres full time closer this year and should finally break the 30-save threshold in 2026. He’s going to cost you a late second-round pick if you want his services. It’s a bit too rich for my blood.
2) Edwin Diaz, Dodgers
Diaz is going right after Miller in drafts, with an ADP of around 37 right now in NFBC drafts. He was one of the prizes that the Dodgers came away with in the “Rich get Richer” sweepstakes this offseason. He should pick right up where he left off in New York and dance his way out to “Timmy Trumpet” 30+ times while leading the Dodgers pen in saves.
3) Andres Munoz, Mariners
The closer run continues in the early 4th-round and Munoz has been the next arm off the board. He may be the best of the bunch and makes a great pick to anchor your saves category if you can jump on board once the closer run starts. His 38 saves represented almost 90% of Seattle’s team total, making Munoz the second-highest ranking “solo closer” in the league last year.
He makes for a great target at the end of the 4th round, as part of that same early draft closer run. He very well may be the best of the bunch after posting two straight years with 100+ Ks, albeit pitching primarily as a set-up man for Cleveland. As the primary closer, he likely won’t pitch over 70 innings again, so don’t bank on quite the same K total. Cleveland also seems like the type of team that can just make closers out of thin air, so don’t be shocked if he gets moved in-season if the Guardians aren’t in the playoff hunt.
5) Jhoan Duran, Philles
Acquired to anchor the Philly shaky pen last year, Duran came over from Minnesota and gave manager Rob Thompson something he hadn’t had since Craig Kimbrel in 2023, and an actual closer. He should remain their primary option, when available, in the 9th this season and give the Phillies their first 30+ save closer since the immortal Jeanmar Gomez saved 37 games back in 2016. He’s been going in the mid-4th round in drafts, so you have to hop on that closer train if you want to roster him.
6) David Bednar, Yankees
Here is my most likely first closer target. Bednar has been going a little later in drafts than the above-listed group, as his ADP sits in the mid 60’s right now. Spending an early 6th round pick on the guy projected to hold down the 9th for one of the better teams in baseball feels a lot better than reaching earlier. When Bednar got to NY from Pittsburgh last year, he eventually earned Aaron Boone’s trust in the 9th and piled up an impressive 35 Ks in 24.2 IP. He will enter the season as the Yanks’ closer and should be amongst the league leaders in saves as long as he is able to hold the job. Handcuff him with Camilo Doval in the later rounds if you can.
7) Aroldis Chapman, Red Sox
Sep 30, 2025; Bronx, New York, USA; Boston Red Sox catcher Carlos Narvaez (75) and relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman (44) celebrate after defeating the New York Yankees in game one of the Wildcard round of the 2025 MLB playoffs at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
He’s going right around where Bednar is going, and it’s not based on what he did last year. If we are basing our picks on last year’s stats, he was one of the best closers in the game with 32 saves in 34 tries, with an era of 1.17 and a sub-1 WHIP. He wasn’t even the closer when the season began last year, as Boston was actually holding out hope for Liam Hendricks to bounce back and lead their pen. His price tag is softened due to his age (38) and the fact that we’ve seen him fall apart after 30 save seasons before. He’s not without risk, but I don’t mind grabbing him in the 6th round, and then I’ll handcuff him with Garrett Whitlock later.
8) Carlos Estevez, Royals
Estevez led the league by notching 42 saves and also by closing out 89.4% of the Royals team save total. He isn’t being drafted as highly as the previous save options, so I do have some interest in him as my top closer in the 8th-9th round or so. The Royals are an improving team, and he doesn’t have too much competition in guys like lefty Matt Strahm and set-up man Lucas Erceg (who had some issues of his own last year). One word of caution on Estevez is that his fly ball rate was high, and he benefited from the spacious dimensions of Kaufman Stadium. He allowed 4 of his 5 home runs on the road last year, and this year, the walls in the Royals’ home park will be moved in between 9 and 10 feet. If you take Estevez, back him up with Erceg.
9) Devin Williams, Mets
What seemed like a disastrous season in the Bronx was actually more of a result of some bad luck than anything else. His rate stats were as dominant as ever, and he will get a clean start in Flushing as the Mets closer this season. I’m buying in based on the 90 Ks in 62 innings couple with the fact that the Mets saw enough to give him a 3-year deal. Being back in the NL, where he once dominated, doesn’t hurt either. The rest of the field has also been buying in this draft season, so you’ll have to pull the trigger in around the 7th round if you want him.
10) Daniel Palencia, Cubs
Now we’re getting to the aisle I like to shop in when I have to go closer shopping. Palencia has an ADP of around 144 but has gone as high as the late 6th round in early NFBC drafts. If I can get him around the 10th round, I’ll be thrilled. Craig Counsell has already named him as the team’s closer, and I project the Cubs to be well over .500 this year. Behind Palencia right now are guys like Phil Maton and Hunter Harvey, so he checks all of my boxes for a closer target. Last year, he had a shoulder issue that sidelined him in September, but that’s supposedly behind him coming into this season. Since he’s a flame thrower whose fastball sits north of 99 mph, we will just have to make sure that he hasn’t lost any velo when we watch him this spring. He makes for a fine RP1 at his current cost.
11) Pete Fairbanks, Marlins
Last year, he managed to stay healthy for the entire season and piled up a career high 60+ innings pitched for the Rays. His 27 saves were also a career best, and he parlayed his 2025 into a free agent deal with Miami. The Marlins aren’t exactly the first team you think of when you think of big free agent signings, so his 1 year $13mil deal was a bit surprising. It’s very possible that he will be moved at the trade deadline by Miami as they continue to rebuild, but while he is in South Beach, he will remain their closer. Getting a guaranteed closer for 4 months at this point is about as good as you’re going to get, as every reliever is going to come with risk. There is a chance that he may assume the closer duties for his new team, and even an off-shoot chance he stays in Miami all year if they manage to compete for a wild card spot. He’s currently going in the 10th round on average.
12) Josh Hader, Astros
Aug 8, 2025; Bronx, New York, USA; Houston Astros relief pitcher Josh Hader (71) delivers a pitch during the ninth inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
He should be higher, but I don’t trust that he’s healthy. I have zero interest in him at his current draft price in the 6th round and would much rather take Bryan Abreu later on. His 2025 ended due to a shoulder strain, and he’s currently nursing a sore left biceps. My mind immediately goes to impending elbow issues, as he may have been compensating for the shoulder last year. If he falls late into the draft and he somehow manages to avoid a long-term injury, then I’ll come back to the table, but for now, he’s a pass for me.
13) Raisel Iglesias, Braves
It was an up-and-down season for Iglesias last year, but it ended on an up note, so we’re back in for 2026. Sort of. His current draft price has him going in the 8th round, and his handcuff isn’t exactly obvious, as it could be Robert Suarez or Dylan Lee. It’s a little tough to pull the trigger on him as high as the 8th round, but if he falls to me just a round later, I’ll take the shot on him. He’s no Spring Chicken at 36 years old, but he knows how to close games as he’s topped 30 saves over 5 times in his career and was able to lock down 29 last year. Iglesias is Spanish for “church”, which is perfect since I’ll be praying for the best if I take him as my top closer.
14) Ryan Helsley, Orioles
He was amazing in 2024, then not quite so great for the Cardinals in 2025. Then he was traded to the Mets, and he out-and-out stunk. He signed with Baltimore this offseason to assume their closer role while Felix Bautista recovers from shoulder surgery. Apparently, he was tipping his pitches last season and has worked to fix the problem this Winter. His current draft price has him going in the 9th round in 12-team leagues, so it seems that fantasy owners are buying in on the fix and are hoping they are scoring the 2024 version of this guy at a discount. It still feels a little too rich for me, so I’ll let him go, and if he happens to fall into the 12th round or so, I’ll take a swing. There isn’t much behind him aside from veteran Andrew Kittridge, until Bautista returns next season.
15) Emilio Pagan, Reds
He had a great season last year, posting a career best 32 saves at the age of 34. The Reds rode him hard down the stretch as they made a push for the postseason, so they will bring him along slowly this Spring. He should slide right back into his role as the Cincy closer, and his current draft position has him going at a very palatable 134. If I can double-tap the position in this area of the draft, I’ll be very happy to walk away with a combo of Palencia and Pagan in the 10-11th rounds.
16) Jeff Hoffman, Blue Jays
He received the ever-so heartwarming “vote of confidence” this Spring from manager John Schneider, so he’s penciled in as Toronto’s closer, at least to start this season. Last year was a wild ride for Hoffman as he pitched to a 4.37 era which included 3 full months with a mark above 4.50 and 3 full months under 2.00. In the months of April, June, and September, he pitched to a 7-1 record with 16 saves and a 1.25 era. In May, July, and August, he combined for a 3-6 record and a 7.87 era, with 17 saves. Part of the reason he retained the job all season long was a lack of other options, as Yimi Garcia and Chad Green were both injured for various parts of 2025. The team brought in Louis Varland at the trade deadline last year and Tyler Rogers this offseason to help bolster the pen, along with a potentially healthy Garcia to give Schneider other options if Hoffman struggles again this year. At this point, all of these closers are going to take a leap of faith. He’s not a bad pick after the 10th round.
17) Trevor Megill, Brewers
He had a very nice season, but he wore down at the end. He relied less on his fastball and more on his knuckle curve enroute to compiling 30 saves for the Brew Crew in 2025. Abner Uribe is looming as a higher-skilled and higher upside option behind him, and both players have been going in around the same range in drafts between the 11th-13th round on average. This feels like a potential committee, and I would likely take the one that falls further in the draft. I wouldn’t be shocked if Uribe started going before Megill as we get closer to the season.
18) Abner Uribe, Brewers
Jul 18, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Abner Uribe (45) reacts following the seventh inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
He fits the profile of the kind of talent you want to draft, and in SOLDS leagues, his value is even higher. He’ll begin the season behind Megill for saves in Milwaukee, but it won’t take much for skipper Pat Murphy to hand the role to Uribe if his incumbent falters. Uribe has a lot of buzz around him this draft season after coming off his 2025 that saw him pile up 38 holds over 75 appearances with 90 Ks in 75.1 innings. You’ll have to pay for him like he’s already a closer, but he’s worth it based on his rate skills and K ability.
19) Ryan Walker, Giants
He was a hot pick last year after an amazing 2024 that saw him pile up 99 Ks in 80 innings while working primarily as the set-up man for Camilo Doval. He entered last year as the Giants closer, and after a couple of rough months, he ceded the job back to Doval. Then the Giants flipped Camilo to the Yankees and reinserted Walker in the closer role, where he struggled again to finish out the season. There’s some question if maybe Walker suffers from “Rob Dibble Disease” and can only dominate the 7th and 8th innings while struggling to get the last 3 outs of the game. It seems like the Giants will give him another chance in 2026 after he worked on his mechanics this offseason, and his current draft cost north of pick #200 has made me interested in taking a chance.
20) Dennis Santana, Pirates
He’s currently the Pirates closer after finishing the 2025 season with 16 saves, including 10 of the team’s final 12. With David Bednar now closing in New York, Santana seems poised to lead the team again as his only competition is fellow journeymen Gregory Soto and Isaac Mattson. His current draft price is reasonable enough (#165), and he makes for a solid #2 closer. He doesn’t miss a lot of bats, but as long as he can get those final three outs, Pittsburgh wins, he has value.
21) Kenley Jansen, Tigers
The Tigers have brought him in to lead their late-inning bullpen, but they haven’t quite committed to him as their closer as of yet. When asked, AJ Hinch said that all of the bullpen arms would be in the mix for saves, adding, “I think we can pretty much guess how it’s gonna go given that one of them has a historic number of saves.” Jansen will be first in line and will get the bulk of the save chances, with Will Vest, Kyle Finnegan, and Taylor Holton all there to assist when he needs a break. At his current ADP of pick 137, which puts him in the 12th round, he’s a reasonable choice as your #2 closer.
22) Griffin Jax, Rays
He should be the head of what will likely be a committee in Tampa that also features Garrett Cleavenger and Edwin Uceta. Jax has never gotten more than 10 saves in a season, but he is coming off back-to-back 90+ K seasons and profiles as the best set of skills of the Tampa bullpen arms. All three players are going well after pick #200, so it’s possible to pick up Jax in around the 17th-18th round and then back him up with one of the other two at the end of your draft. If he gets you 20 saves this year, along with his Ks and a solid ERA and whip, he will be a fantasy asset as your #2 closer.
23) Riley O’Brien, Cardinals
He’s first in line for saves after closing out 4 of the Cardinals final 5 save opportunities last season. He’s not a young pitcher, as he began last year in the minors with just 10 innings of major league experience at the age of 30. He throws a hard 98 mph sinker that he was able to use in the minors to get 32 Ks over 19 innings before getting the call to St. Louis. He wasn’t able to maintain the same K rate in the majors, but he did keep his era and WHIP to respectable levels. While he’s the highest draft Cardinal pitcher, he’s going well after the 200th pick on average right now. He’s a low-risk, late-round pick that you can grab as your 2nd closer.
24) Seranthony Dominguez, White Sox
The White Sox have brought him in to be their closer this offseason, which I find a bit curious, as he hasn’t really been a closer since his rookie season for the Phillies back in 2018, and that wasn’t even for the full season. Chicago’s front office is confident he will be able to handle the role, especially after he added a split-finger to his repertoire, which helped him set a career high with 11.35 k/9 last year. He was signed for two years, and for big money by the White Sox’s current standards, so he should be safe to remain in the role unless he completely chokes on it. As of right now, his price in drafts has been more than reasonable as he’s been going near the end of most 12-team drafts.
25) Kirby Yates, Angels
Now we are officially into the range of “on a wing and a prayer,” as none of these guys will be guaranteed anything. Yates joined the Angels this offseason and is reunited with former pitching coach Mike Maddux, with whom he had his best season in 2024 for the Rangers. He’s no Spring Chicken, now at 38 years old, but he will get the first crack at closing out games for the Halos. Thus far in draft season, drafters have been split between Yates and Robert Stephenson, but both players have been available at the very end of drafts with an ADP north of 400.
26) Bryan Abreu, Astros
He’s first in line if Josh Hader goes down, and right now that line doesn’t seem to have a very long wait. If Hader does end up being shelved for any length of time, Abreu’s draft price will skyrocket from his current average slot around pick #280. Based on skills alone, Abreu makes for an excellent pick as he has topped 100 Ks in three straight years, while appearing in at least 70 contests in each season. He’s going to go much higher in SOLDS leagues, so make sure you know your league scoring system when drafting.
27) Cole Sands, Twins
He will likely split saves with Taylor Rogers and Justin Topa in the Minnesota pen this season. None of the trio is being drafted at all in most 12-team leagues right now, but I’ll take a shot on Sands over the other two. When there’s a committee of 3, I will focus on whichever two of the pitchers that throw from the same side. In this case, Sand and Topa are the righties, while Rogers is a lefty. The manager is going to use all three in high-leverage spots, and more times than not, he is going to end up burning the lefty before the 9th, which will leave one of the other two pitchers for the final frame. It’s not exactly scientific, but it’s my process. Sands is the youngest of the three and does have an elite season as a reliever under his belt for these Twins back in 2024, so he’s the most attractive to me as a speculative pick.
28) Robert Garcia, Rangers
The Rangers will most likely employ a bullpen by committee, and right now, Garcia looks to be the highest-drafted member of said unit. Generally speaking, I tend to hold being left-handed against a guy when he’s the lone southpaw in a committee, as he will likely be used when the need arises rather than being saved for the final three outs. Alexis Diaz and Chris Martin will be there as the right-handed complements to Garcia in the Texas pen, and all will likely get saves this year. Garcia will cost you a late-round pick (ADP #300+) if you want to take a stab at him.
29) Chris Martin, Rangers
He’s going much later than his teammate, Garcia, and he’s also going a little later than Alexis Diaz thus far in drafts, but I think Martin may end up leading the Rangers in saves. Skip Schumaker specifically mentioned Martin and Garcia as the favorites for saves when asked who would be his closer when camp began this year. If it’s going to be a committee, give me Martin here, as I feel this situation is very similar to the Twins. When the need for the lefty arises before the 9th, Garcia will be used. The Rangers have fellow righty, Alexis Diaz, that they can use in tight spots in the 7th or 8th, which allows Martin to be available for the 9th. His current draft price is basically free. (ADP #695)
30) Kevin Ginkel, Diamondbacks
Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Kevin Ginkel throws to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the ninth inning at Chase Field in Phoenix, on May 8, 2025.
We’ve come to the “dart throw” portion of our exercise. One of Kevin Ginkel, Paul Sewald, or Ryan Thompson will likely begin this season as the Arizona “closer,” as Tory Lovullo has stated he would like to have defined roles in the pen this year. The best arms for the job are probably AJ Puk and Justin Martinez, but both will be on the shelf for at least a couple of months as they work their way back from Tommy John surgery. I put Ginkel at the top of this heap based on who he was before an injury-riddled 2025. He posted back-to-back years with 60+ innings out of the D-back pen with solid rate stats and a K-rate over 9.
31) Paul Sewald, Diamondbacks
Same story as Ginkel. Sewald has the most closing experience of the trio that is competing for saves in the desert for Tory Lovullo. His 86 career saves are a plus, but his age (36) and declining K rate over the last 3 seasons give us some reason for pause. He is only being drafted in the deepest of leagues right now with an ADP north of 700. Consider him solely if he wins the competition this Spring for most formats; he’s worth a speculative buck in NL-only auctions.
32) Taylor Rogers, Twins
He’s in the mix for saves in Minnesota, but I feel like he will most likely be used in high-leverage spots before the end of the game, which will limit his total. Rogers has been around for quite some time, so we know what we’re getting. He’s worth a roster spot in AL-only leagues as he will likely notch about 10 saves while chipping in with decent numbers across the board.
33) Garrett Cleavenger, Rays
Tampa looks like yet another committee, and Cleavenger will be the left-handed side of the squad, complementing Griffin Jax, and Edwin Uceta. At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I’m fading the lefty here again. He’ll get 8-12 saves as part of the committee and makes a solid addition in AL-only leagues. Uceta may be dealing with a shoulder impingement this Spring, so keep an eye on the situation as camp continues.
34) Justin Sterner, A’s
Somebody is going to lead the Athletics in saves. The suspect list looks messy, as there are literally 5 different guys who can be called upon by Mark Kotsay when the A’s actually have a late lead. None of them is Mason Miller, so it’s very likely we’re going to be dealing with the dreaded “hot hand” approach. Sterner is going the highest by current ADP, but he’s still an afterthought in most 12-team leagues with an ADP of about 600. Sterner is a 29-year-old career minor leaguer who relies heavily on his sweeper to get outs. He may project as the best skills guy of the bunch, but that might be simply by default.
35) Scott Barlow, A’s
Barlow is the next name to know in the Athletics’ bullpen. His skills have been fading for a few years now, but he has the most career saves of this lot, and that very well may influence Mark Kotsay’s decision when it comes to awarding the first save opportunity. Possession is 9/10ths the law, so if Barlow is getting saves/finishing games in camp, then he very well may be the guy who leads this team in saves in 2026. He’s a $1 flier in any auction and a last-round dart throw in drafts.
While the world was just tuning into the Milano Cortina hockey tournament, front offices across the NHL were focused on the return of the NFL schedule and the March 6 trade deadline.
Organizations have less than two weeks to acquire pieces that will either help push a team into the playoffs or ensure a deep run.
Here are the Stanley Cup Power Rankings as we come back from the 2026 Winter Olympic break.
Toronto has work to do when the NHL season resumes. The Maple Leafs are six points out of the Eastern Conference’s final playoff spot. The team relies on a high-octane offense, but the front office must improve the defense.
17. Ottawa Senators
Feb 5, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Ottawa Senators center Tim Sttzle (18) celebrates his game-winning goal with right wing Claude Giroux (28) against the Philadelphia Flyers in overtime at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
Since January 13th, Ottawa is 8-5. The offense has been on a tear, and the team has held opponents to two goals or fewer in each win. The Senators’ roster isn’t a Stanley Cup contender, and improvements are needed for the league’s 24th–ranked defense.
16. Columbus Blue Jackets
The regular season has just over 20 games left, and Columbus is closer to an Eastern Conference Wild Card spot than Toronto. The league standings will change by the end of the season, but the Blue Jackets have become playoff contenders since starting their 11-1 run on January 11th. Leading up to the trade deadline, the Columbus front office must decide if they will be buyers.
15. Washington Capitals
Washington has had a rough go around since the calendar flipped. The team’s offense and defense have struggled, but the Olympic pause can kickstart both sides of the puck that are currently on life support. The Capitals will be a team looking for reinforcements at the trade deadline.
14. Utah Mammoth
Utah is one of the league’s most underrated teams and is overshadowed by division rivals Colorado, Minnesota, and Dallas. The Mammoth are flying under the radar and can play stress-free hockey without being under a microscope. The team’s strength lies in its 4th–ranked defense and is a dark horse to win the Stanley Cup.
13. Edmonton Oilers
Oct 4, 2024; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid (97) handles the puck against the Vancouver Canucks during the second period at Rogers Arena. | Bob Frid-Imagn Images
The Oilers entered the Olympic pause on a three-game losing streak and can use the break from league play. Edmonton’s storyline continues to be the same: an electrifying offense with a below-average defense that surrenders a high number of goals per game. Connor McDavid wants to win as a member of the Oilers, and the front office must do whatever is possible to improve the defense at the trade deadline.
12. New York Islanders
The Islanders’ defense and goaltending have made up for an offense that ranks 24th in goals scored per game. However, this may be troublesome when facing better offenses in the playoffs. At the trade deadline, New York must add to the offense to have a serious shot at winning the Stanley Cup.
11. Boston Bruins
The Bruins have played consistent hockey, other than two six-game losing streaks in mid-October and mid-December. Boston has relied upon its offense throughout the season, and this has covered defensive flaws. The front office will look to add defensive pieces, specifically ones that can help one of the worst penalty-killing units in the league.
10. Buffalo Sabres
Buffalo’s season was up and down before the switch went off in early December. The team went 11-18 from October 9th to December 8th. The Sabres’ rise started on December 9th, and their record is 21-7 at the Olympic pause. The roster is young and lacks playoff experience, but it will be a tough series matchup for playoff opponents.
9. Pittsburgh Penguins
Jan 11, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) prepares for a face-off during the second period of the game against the Boston Bruins at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Natalie Reid-Imagn Images
Pittsburgh’s early-season woes were correlated with the injuries the team dealt with. As the team started to reach full health, the Penguins started winning on a consistent basis. The team is full of veterans who can lead the way to the Eastern Conference Finals. Sidney Crosby’s injury in the Olympics shouldn’t keep him out long, if at all.
8. Montreal Canadiens
Montreal was chasing Detroit for the division lead before Tampa Bay started the hottest streak this season. The Canadiens are tied for second and trail Tampa Bay by six points. The team’s offense has been one of the NHL’s best, but the defense is below-average and surrenders a high number of goals per game.
7. Detroit Red Wings
The Red Wings are on the verge of reaching the playoffs for the first time since the 2015-2016 season. Detroit’s defense has led the way to the team’s consistent play throughout the season. Entering the playoffs, the team’s two glaring issues are a lack of playoff experience and goal scoring.
6. Vegas Golden Knights
Jan 23, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Vegas Golden Knights right wing Mitch Marner (93) skates during the warmup before a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
The Golden Knights were starting to pull away from the rest of the Pacific Division before enduring a six-game losing streak from January 25th to February 1st. However, they were able to stop the slide before the league pause, winning back-to-back games. Defensive reinforcements are needed as Vegas must compete with Colorado, Minnesota, Dallas, and Edmonton for the Western Conference representative in the Stanley Cup Finals.
5. Dallas Stars
The Central Division features three of the league’s best teams, and Dallas has the best record against division opponents. The strength of the Stars is their defense, and the front office may add offensive depth to help in the playoffs. Colorado may not relinquish its division lead, but Dallas and Minnesota will continue the fight for second place.
4. Minnesota Wild
Feb 4, 2026; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Minnesota Wild right wing Vladimir Tarasenko (91) celebrates with his teammates after scoring a goal against the Nashville Predators during the third period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
The Western Conference playoffs are headed for huge storylines, and the Wild can be the team to reach the conference finals. Minnesota faced adversity early this season, but quickly solved many issues. The team is among league leaders in nearly every statistical category and will be a matchup nightmare in the playoffs.
3. Carolina Hurricanes
Carolina has led the Eastern Conference in points throughout the season. The Hurricanes strong season has seen the offense and defense rank in the top 10 of the NHL. Barring an upset, Carolina will be a favorite to reach the conference finals.
2. Tampa Bay Lightning
Tampa Bay started the season adding points while solving inconsistencies. They chased Detroit and Montreal for the first three months of the season until mid-December. Since December 20th, the team is 19-2 and rank 2nd in offense and defense.
1. Colorado Avalanche
May 1, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon (29) celebrates his go ahead goal in the third period against the Dallas Stars in game six of the first round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Colorado has been the NHL’s best throughout the season. Suffering one losing streak in October, the team looked invincible through the New Year. The Avalanche have come back to Earth since early January, but continue to lead the NHL in points, goal differential, and goals scored per game
Spring Training is underway for all 30 teams. Many teams are getting acclimated with offseason acquisitions, while hoping the new names are the difference makers in the upcoming season.
At the same time, teams will evaluate their top minor league prospects as well as specific players who can leave Spring Training with their MLB teams for the first time in their careers.
As Spring Training starts, here are the MLB team power rankings.
The Dodgers have MLB’s best player in Shohei Ohtani. Playing for a third consecutive World Series, the front office added to the league’s most-feared lineup by signing free agent outfielder Kyle Tucker. Having the best lineup and starting rotation, Los Angeles is set for success barring injuries.
2. Toronto Blue Jays
Nov 1, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) walks to first base in the third inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during game seven of the 2025 MLB World Series at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Toronto opens Spring Training with high hopes for its starting rotation. Singing free agent Dylan Cease gives the Blue Jays one of the game’s most elite strikeout pitchers. The batting order will look different this season after losing Bo Bichette to free agency and Anthony Santander to season-ending shoulder surgery.
3. Philadelphia Phillies
Philadelphia enters Spring Training with a noticeable difference in the outfield. The team signed outfielder Adolis Garcia and released Nick Castellanos. The Phillies’ main concern is a starting pitching rotation that lost Ranger Suarez and will be without Zack Wheeler for the first month and a half of the season.
4. Seattle Mariners
The Mariners ended last season first in the AL West and are looking to repeat as division champions. The team’s starting rotation is the most important factor for a successful 2026 season. Seattle is a team expected to acquire an outfielder during the regular season.
5. Chicago Cubs
Oct 8, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong (4) reacts after striking out against the Milwaukee Brewers in the third inning during game three of the NLDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
Chicago lost outfielder Kyle Tucker to free agency but filled a glaring need by signing third baseman Alex Bregman. The Cubs’ depth at starting pitching can give them one of MLB’s most dynamic rotations. The front office will turn to the team’s prospects to fill the offensive void left by Kyle Tucker’s departure.
6. New York Yankees
The Yankees’ offseason was head-scratching as the front office’s notable offseason move was resigning outfielder Cody Bellinger. As the rest of the AL East added to their rosters, New York stayed away from free agency spending. The team’s starting rotation will be in the spotlight for the first month of the season as it will be without Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon.
7. Boston Red Sox
The Red Sox had an eventful offseason. Third baseman Alex Bregman headed to the North Side of Chicago in free agency, leaving a glaring hole at third base. However, the team added Sonny Gray and Ranger Suarez to the starting rotation and acquired first baseman Willson Contreras from St. Louis.
8. Milwaukee Brewers
The Brewers don’t blow anyone away on paper, but they win by doing the little things that do not show up in the box score. The team traded Freddy Peralta, its best starting pitcher, to the Mets for top prospects Brandon Sproat and Jett Williams. The starting rotation looks to second-year starter Jacob Misiorowski to develop into the team’s ace.
9. Houston Astros
Last season, Houston missed the playoffs for the first time since 2016. The team’s shortcomings were due to injuries, most notably to Yordan Alvarez and team closer Josh Hader. This offseason, the Astros lost starting pitcher Framber Valdez to free agency and hope the signing of Tatsuya Imai will fill the void in the starting rotation.
10. Detroit Tigers
Oct 10, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; (Editors note: Alternate crop) Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Tarik Skubal (29) throws against the Seattle Mariners during the third inning during game five of the ALDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
Detroit is ready to take another step forward in 2026. The team’s addition of Framber Valdez gives them an elite arm to pair with ace Tarik Skubal. After last season’s breakout performance, Riley Greene will be relied on to lead the offense.
11. New York Mets
New York enters Spring Training with a new look to its roster. After losing Edwin Diaz to free agency and trading Brandon Nimmo, the front office acquired Freddy Peralta, Devin Williams, Jorge Polanco, Marcus Semien, Bo Bichette, and Luis Robert. Health will be important as the team was plagued by injuries in 2025.
12. Texas Rangers
Injuries and inconsistent play hindered Texas last season. This offseason, the team moved long-time second baseman Marcus Semien for outfielder Brandon Nimmo. The Rangers acquired starting pitcher MacKenzie Gore from Washington and will bolster the starting rotation that includes Jacob deGrom and Nathan Eovaldi.
13. Cincinnati Reds
The Reds are a team to watch after winning 83 games last season. They have a young starting rotation ready to see the emergence of right-hander Chase Burns. The free agent acquisition of Eugenio Suarez gives the lineup a much-needed power bat.
14. Cleveland Guardians
Oct 1, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Guardians third base José Ramírez (11) celebrates in the dugout against the Detroit Tigers in the eighth inning during game two of the Wildcard round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Last year, Cleveland won the AL Central after Detroit’s monumental collapse. Jose Ramirez will again be the main producer in the offense. The starting rotation saw Gavin Williams take a step forward in 2025, and Joey Cantillo is one to watch this season.
15. Atlanta Braves
2025 was a forgettable season across the board. Injuries were the main culprit for Atlanta’s shortcomings. The Braves need healthy, productive seasons from Spencer Strider, Ronald Acuna Jr., Austin Riley, and Matt Olson.
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