San Diego Padres relief pitcher Robert Suarez works against a Los Angeles Dodgers batter during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Orlando Ramirez)

BBWAA votes to begin Relief Pitcher of the Year Award for each league

The Baseball Writers’ Association of America has voted to establish an AL and NL Relief Pitcher of the Year Award starting in 2026, the organization announced on Saturday.

The BBWAA decided it was too late in the season to add the award for this year. MLB Network is already determining the dates the awards will be announced, and there is a process for chapter chairs to determine a voter in each city.

The Relief Pitcher of the Year Award becomes the fifth honor voted on by the BBWAA each year. It joins the Most Valuable Player, Cy Young, Rookie of the Year and Manager of the Year.

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Seattle Mariners relief pitcher Andrés Muñoz reacts to earning the save in a win over the Athletics in a baseball game Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

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