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Jhoan Duran 2024 Player Outlook: Overall Strong Profile Being Drafted At Value
11 months agoMinnesota Twins closer Jhoan Duran was given majority control of the role in 2023 and did not disappoint. The 26-year-old converted 27 of 32 save opportunities with a 2.45 ERA, a 1.14 WHIP, and a 32.9% strikeout rate in 62 ⅓ innings pitched. Duran has the benefit of a three-pitch mix, including a 101.8-MPH fastball and a 98.4-MPH splitter. Consequently, he offers elite strikeout upside with a 16.0% overall swinging-strike rate. His walk rate did jump from 6.0% to 9.8% from 2022 to 2023, but this is not that surprising given his profile as a power-pitching closer. He also benefited from an excellent -3.7-degree launch angle given his heavy use of his curveball and splitter. Duran is currently being drafted at about pick 57 overall, making him the sixth closer off the board. His top-notch strikeout stuff, relative ability to keep runners off base, solid batted-ball profile, and strong team context make Duran a seemingly safe and high-end fantasy closing option. At this point, the fact that he is being drafted behind closers who offer bigger question marks in certain categories, such as Emmanuel Clase and Camilo Doval makes Duran a solid draft value.
