Outlook Jacob Latz
Jacob Latz dominates in the closer role, providing elite ratios and secure ninth-inning duties.
Jacob Latz has locked down the closer role in Texas, serving as the team's primary ninth-inning weapon. Over the last 30 days, he has been virtually untouchable, posting a microscopic 0.80 ERA, 0.63 WHIP, and 18 strikeouts across 11.2 innings. This dominance is vital for the third-place Rangers, who sit two games back in the AL West and are working to snap a two-game skid. With Jalen Beeks and Chris Martin on the injured list, Latz's high-leverage workload is completely secure.
Latz's current 1.70 ERA and 0.63 WHIP through 31.7 innings are a massive step forward from his 3.08 ERA in 2025. While our models expect some regression toward a 4.37 ERA, his improved 5.00 K/BB ratio and 9.94 K/9 indicate his growth is real. Expect some ratio correction, but his ninth-inning job is safe.
For the rest of the week, Texas finishes a series with Minnesota before welcoming San Diego for three games. This schedule features matchups against moderate-ERA pitchers like Randy Vasquez, offering plenty of save opportunities. Our model projects 1.5 saves and strong strikeout volume. Weekly Verdict: Start.
Updated 3 days ago
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Outlook Luinder Avila
Avila Tries to Rebound in Depleted Royals Rotation
Avila is coming off a nightmare start where he failed to escape the first inning after allowing nine runs. Despite the blowup and his elevated 7.22 ERA over the last month, his role is secure. The fifth-place Royals are currently decimated by injuries to rotation anchors Seth Lugo, Cole Ragans, and Kris Bubic, locking Avila in as the team's number two starter.
While his 6.33 ERA and 1.85 WHIP on the season are alarming, our projection expects a rest-of-season turnaround toward a 4.25 ERA and 1.39 WHIP. His walk rate remains a critical issue, but some regression toward his solid 2025 career debut is anticipated as his luck evens out.
This week, Avila is scheduled for a single road start on Wednesday against the Nationals. He will match up against Zack Littell, who holds a mediocre 5.32 ERA. While the matchup is beatable, Avila's extreme volatility makes him too dangerous to trust in your lineup. Sit him until he shows signs of stability.
Updated 6 days ago
