Relief pitcher rankings
Yankees' pitcher Mariano Rivera warming up his arm during a spring training workout. (Feb. 21, 2012) Credit: Newsday/J. Conrad Williams, Jr.
1. Jonathan Papelbon (Phillies)
2. Mariano Rivera (Yankees)
3. John Axford (Brewers)
4. Craig Kimbrel (Braves)
5. Drew Storen (Nationals)
6. Ryan Madson (Reds)
7. Joel Hanrahan (Pirates)
8. Brian Wilson (Giants)
9. Heath Bell (Marlins)
10. Jose Valverde (Tigers)
11. J.J. Putz (Diamondbacks)
12. Rafael Betancourt (Rockies)
13. Jordan Walden (Angels)
14. Jason Motte (Cardinals)
15. Sergio Santos (Blue Jays)
16. Joakim Soria (Royals)
17. Andrew Bailey (Red Sox)
18. Brandon League (Mariners)
19. Carlos Marmol (Cubs)
20. Huston Street (Padres)
21. Javy Guerra (Dodgers)
22. Joe Nathan (Rangers)
23. Kyle Farnsworth (Rays)
24. Frank Francisco (Mets)
25. Matt Thornton (White Sox)
26. Brett Myers (Astros)
27. Matt Capps (Twins)
28. Kenley Jansen (Dodgers)
29. Chris Perez (Indians)
30. Vinnie Pestano (Indians)
31. Grant Balfour (A’s)
32. Jim Johnson (Orioles)
33. Sergio Romo (Giants)
34. Tyler Clippard (Nationals)
35. Jonny Venters (Braves)
36. Glen Perkins (Twins)
37. Mike Adams (Rangers)
38. Joaquin Benoit (Tigers)
39. David Robertson (Yankees)
40. Brian Fuentes (A’s)
41. Sean Marshall (Reds)
42. David Hernandez (Diamondbacks)
43. Francisco Rodriguez (Brewers)
44. Scott Downs (Angels)
45. Addison Reed (White Sox)
46. Mark Melancon (Red Sox)
47. Francisco Cordero (Blue Jays)
48. Joel Peralta (Rays)
49. Luke Gregerson (Padres)
50. Kerry Wood (Cubs)
For 2012 draft prep, click on the 2012 draft prep tag below.
