Outlook Sean Newcomb
Sean Newcomb dominates in high-leverage role despite minor injury scare
Sean Newcomb has been a vital late-inning weapon for the second-place White Sox (39-37) in the AL Central. Over his last 30 days, he has dominated with a 1.96 ERA and a 0.65 WHIP, racking up 18 strikeouts over 13.8 innings. Despite briefly leaving a game on June 17 with a minor triceps contusion, he avoided the injured list and remains the primary setup option in Chicago's bullpen.
While Newcomb's recent stretch has been stellar, our models suggest some regression may be coming. His current 2.96 season ERA is outperforming our rest-of-season projection of a 4.17 ERA and a 1.36 WHIP. However, his excellent strikeout rate (10.03 K/9 in 2026) ensures he will remain a highly productive asset in holds leagues even if his ratios regress closer to his career norms.
The White Sox have a six-game home stand this week against the Guardians and Royals. Tight matchups against quality opposing starters like Parker Messick (2.77 ERA) should provide plenty of late-inning holds opportunities. Given his high-leverage role and outstanding current form, he is a recommended option in holds leagues this week. Weekly Verdict: Start.
Updated 1 day ago
Latest News Sean Newcomb
Outlook Tony Santillan
Tony Santillan secures Reds closer role amid bullpen injuries
Tony Santillan has been excellent recently, delivering a flawless 0.00 ERA and a 0.33 WHIP over 3.0 innings in his last week of work. Currently serving as the primary closer for the Cincinnati Reds, his high-leverage security is solidified with relievers Pierce Johnson and Emilio Pagan on the injured list. Cincinnati is currently fifth in the NL Central with a 37-39 record but carries momentum from a two-game winning streak.
Though his recent hot streak is encouraging, a 5.63 ERA and 1.56 WHIP over the last 30 days suggest some regression is likely. His season-to-date 5.48 ERA and 1.51 WHIP reflect these control issues, but our models project a rest-of-season recovery toward a 4.24 ERA and 1.33 WHIP. Expect him to remain a solid source of saves, even if his ratios remain somewhat unstable.
The Reds have a six-game slate this week, split between home matchups against Milwaukee and a road series against Pittsburgh. With tight games anticipated, our projection expects Santillan to compile 2.2 innings, a couple of strikeouts, and a save. His secure ninth-inning role makes him a mandatory option in leagues valuing saves. Verdict: Start.
Updated 1 day ago
