Outlook Rico Garcia
Rico Garcia dominates in the closer role, but a returning star looms over his long-term value.
Garcia has been sensational in the high-leverage mix for the fourth-place Orioles (28-32), posting a minuscule 0.86 ERA and 1.05 WHIP over his last 10.5 innings. With primary closer Ryan Helsley sidelined on the injured list with elbow inflammation, Garcia has stepped up as the primary ninth-inning option, securing three saves during this hot stretch.
While Garcia's actual 2026 performance features an elite 0.78 ERA and 0.70 WHIP, our models expect regression toward a 4.50 ERA and 1.36 WHIP over the rest of the season. His current 10.96 K/9 and extreme run prevention are unsustainable, and his fantasy value will take a hit when Helsley returns in early June to reclaim the closer job.
The Orioles embark on a six-game road trip this week with matchups against division rivals Boston and Toronto. Garcia remains a viable option for immediate saves, but with Helsley nearing a return, this may be your last week to maximize his value before he slides back into a setup role. Start him for now, but be ready to pivot.
Updated 3 days ago
Latest News Rico Garcia
Outlook Jhoan Duran
Duran continues to dominate the ninth inning since returning from the IL, making him an elite weekly play.
Since returning from an early-season oblique strain in early May, Jhoan Duran has firmly re-established himself as the primary closer for the third-place Phillies (30-29). Over his last 30 days, he has been virtually untouchable, posting a brilliant 1.64 ERA and racking up 18 strikeouts across 11.0 innings of work.
This dominant stretch of play aligns perfectly with his career baseline, which features multiple seasons of sub-2.40 ERAs and elite strikeout rates. Our models project him to finish the year with 30 saves, a 3.04 ERA, and a 1.13 WHIP, suggesting his current run of high-leverage dominance is entirely sustainable.
The Phillies have a six-game home stand this week against the Padres and White Sox, offering multiple late-inning opportunities against beatable opposing starters like Walker Buehler (4.88 ERA) and Lucas Giolito (4.97 ERA). With a secure grip on the ninth inning, Duran is a locked-in weekly Start.
Updated 3 days ago
