However , Trevor Hoffman is ranked fifth in Major League Baseball for most saves in a single season , while holding the MLB record for most career saves , recording 601 over his 18 - year career .
However , Trevor Hoffman is ranked fifth in Major League Baseball for most saves in a single season , with 53 , which he recorded in 1998 . 
 Hoffman also holds the MLB record for most career saves , recording 601 over his 18 - year career .