Outlook Bryan Baker
Baker dominates in the closer role for the surging Rays
Baker has been nearly untouchable lately, posting a pristine 0.00 ERA and an elite 0.25 WHIP over his last four appearances. His dominance at the back of the bullpen has been crucial for the second-place Rays (41-27), who are riding a one-game win streak. With several bullpen depth pieces currently on the injured list, Baker remains firmly locked in as Tampa Bay's primary closer.
While Baker's career 4.41 ERA from last season might have caused initial skepticism, his outstanding 1.97 ERA and 0.99 WHIP over 27.4 innings this year prove his breakout is legitimate. Backed by an excellent strikeout rate of over ten batters per nine innings, he has already secured 18 saves on the year. Fantasy managers should expect some minor regression toward his projected 3.88 ERA, but he has established himself as a highly reliable relief asset.
The Rays have a six-game slate this week, starting with a road series against the Dodgers before returning home to face the Nationals. With matchups against vulnerable starting pitchers like Eric Lauer and Miles Mikolas, Baker should find plenty of late-game lead preservation opportunities. Lock him in as a high-end active closer this week.
Updated 2 days ago
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Outlook Casey Mize
Casey Mize Set to Return from Injured List Wednesday in Houston
Mize is primed to return from the injured list this Wednesday against the Astros after a rainout over the weekend delayed his activation. Prior to sidelined with a right adductor strain, he was in an elite groove, posting a stellar 1.11 ERA and 0.56 WHIP with 14 strikeouts over his last 16.2 innings. He rejoins a fourth-place Tigers rotation looking to build momentum and jumpstart their season.
While Mize's 2026 surface numbers of a 2.36 ERA and 1.00 WHIP look like a massive breakout, our models expect some regression to a 4.11 ERA and 1.27 WHIP over 151.0 projected innings. However, his improved 4.08 strikeout-to-walk ratio is a substantial leap over his career mark of 3.25, suggesting his growth into a reliable mid-rotation starter is legitimate.
Mize has a single start scheduled this week on Wednesday on the road against the Astros and opposing starter Peter Lambert, who carries a 3.47 ERA. Our model projects a solid 1.98 ERA and 0.81 WHIP over 5.2 innings for Mize in his return, though fantasy managers should expect a somewhat limited pitch count. Verdict: Start.
Updated 2 days ago
