Three weeks into the 2026 MLB season, the early narrative is being written by bullpens. While some stars are still finding their groove, a wave of relievers—both established closers and emerging setup men—are dominating from the mound. Here are the top ten relief pitchers powering through the first month.

If you're looking for the definition of an overpowering closer, look no further than Oakland's Mason Miller. Armed with some of the most electric stuff in the game, Miller is off to a flawless start, racking up four saves and 19 strikeouts without allowing a single run over 7.1 innings.

In St. Louis, Riley O’Brien has seized the ninth-inning role and run with it. He’s been perfect in all four save opportunities this season, establishing himself as a rock-solid anchor for the Cardinals' bullpen with a pristine 0.00 ERA.

Now a full-season fixture with the powerhouse New York Mets, Jhoan Duran is poised for a huge year. Coming off a career-best 2025, this elite arm is a safe bet to be among the league leaders in saves by season's end.

While not considered a top-tier name, veteran Jordan Romano has provided immediate stability for the Los Angeles Angels. The new closer is a perfect four-for-four in save chances, giving his team much-needed reliability in high-leverage moments.

Boston's Kenley Jansen continues to defy time. The veteran stalwart was terrific last season and has picked up right where he left off, delivering another electric start that reminds everyone why he's one of the most trusted late-inning arms in baseball.

Since transitioning to a full-time relief role, Jakob Junis has been outstanding for Texas. He’s perfect in three save opportunities and has yet to allow a run, putting him on the fast track to potentially taking over as the Rangers' primary closer.

Cleveland's Sam Sabrowski enters the week as the top-ranked setup man in baseball, leading the majors in holds. His seven scoreless innings have been instrumental in bridging games to the closer, making him an invaluable weapon.

In Cincinnati, Emilio Santillan is rapidly becoming one of the game's premier setup artists. His scoreless outings have helped propel the Reds, and he stands as the clear next-in-line should a change be made at the closer position.

Whether closing or setting up, JoJo Romero has been a versatile and dominant force. This season, he's tied for third in holds and, like many on this list, has maintained a perfect 0.00 ERA through the early going.

As Atlanta looks to rebound, they are leaning on the steady presence of veteran Raisel Iglesias. He has been perfect in his save chances and remains one of the few primary closers yet to surrender a run, providing a cornerstone for the Braves' bullpen.