MLB Closer Crisis: Can Four Top Performers Regain Their Form?

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Post on May 10, 2025

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MLB Closer Crisis: Can Four Top Performers Regain Their Form?

The late-inning drama that defines Major League Baseball is currently experiencing a shake-up. Four prominent closers, once considered untouchable, are struggling to find their rhythm, leaving their teams and fans anxiously wondering: can they regain their dominant form? This season's closer crisis has thrown several playoff races into disarray, creating a captivating narrative for baseball fans and analysts alike.

The Struggling Stars: A Closer Look

This isn't about young, inexperienced pitchers finding their footing. These are veterans, household names, who have consistently delivered in high-pressure situations. Their current struggles are a significant storyline impacting the 2023 MLB season. Let's examine the four key players facing this challenge:

• Liam Hendriks (White Sox): Hendriks' battle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which he bravely fought and overcame, added an unprecedented layer to his recent struggles. While his return to the mound was a testament to his resilience, his performance hasn't quite matched his previous dominance. His velocity is down, and his command, once razor-sharp, has been inconsistent. The White Sox desperately need him to rediscover his form for any postseason aspirations. Can he recapture the magic that made him a feared closer?

• Josh Hader (Padres): A perennial All-Star and one of the game's most electrifying closers, Hader has been surprisingly erratic. His once-unhittable fastball has lost some of its bite, and his control has been noticeably off. The pressure cooker environment of San Diego, combined with high expectations, may be contributing factors. The Padres' playoff hopes are heavily reliant on Hader returning to his All-Star caliber pitching.

• Kenley Jansen (Red Sox): Jansen, a veteran with a lengthy and impressive track record, has encountered his share of difficulties. After a successful stint with the Braves, he's yet to settle into his role with the Red Sox. His struggles highlight the difficulty of transitioning to a new team and adapting to different expectations. The Red Sox need him to consistently deliver in high-leverage situations if they intend to make a late-season push.

• Aroldis Chapman (Kansas City Royals): Chapman, known for his triple-digit fastball, has seen a significant dip in performance this year. While his blazing speed remains, he has struggled with consistency and control. The Royals, in a rebuilding phase, might see his resurgence as a crucial step towards a more competitive future. His performance will be a key indicator of his value in the coming years.

The Root of the Problem: Analyzing the Decline

Several factors might contribute to the struggles of these elite closers:

• Age and Injury: The wear and tear of a long baseball career inevitably takes its toll. Minor injuries, often overlooked, can significantly impact a pitcher's performance, particularly in the demanding role of a closer.

• Pressure and Expectations: The pressure of the ninth inning is immense. The weight of expectations from fans, management, and teammates can be overwhelming, leading to increased anxiety and affecting performance.

• Mechanical Issues: Subtle changes in a pitcher's mechanics can significantly affect their accuracy and velocity. A slight adjustment can sometimes make all the difference between dominance and struggles.

• Mental Game: The mental aspect of pitching is crucial. Confidence plays a massive role, and a slump can be a self-fulfilling prophecy.

The Road to Recovery: Can They Bounce Back?

The answer to whether these closers can regain their form remains uncertain. However, with the right adjustments – both physical and mental – they have the experience and talent to bounce back. Their teams will need to provide support, and the pitchers themselves must focus on refining their techniques and maintaining a positive mental attitude. The rest of the MLB season will be a compelling test of their resilience and skill. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining their fate and the outcome of their respective teams' playoff aspirations. Will these closers rise to the occasion, or will their struggles define the 2023 MLB season's narrative? Only time will tell.