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Jose Leclerc 2024 Player Outlook: Chance For Closer Role Looms
11 months agoTexas Rangers relief pitcher Jose Leclerc has finished 44 games over the last two seasons. During that time, however, he has 11 saves. A 1.13 and 1.14 WHIP in 2022 and 2023, respectively, speaks to his ability to limit baserunners — a must for a successful closer. There's no guarantee Leclerc will be the main closer in 2024 for the Rangers, David Robertson and Kirby Yates have more experience and Carson Coleman has the stuff to close out games. Leclerc could at least get a chance to start the season, given his four saves in the playoffs on the way to a World Series title last year. ATC projects Leclerc to garner 20 saves, which wouldn't put him among the top closers in the game, but one worth rostering. In leagues that count saves plus holds, he'd be even more valuable. The 26.5% strikeout rate and 4.28 FIP projected by ATC would be amongst the worst of his career. He has an ADP of 182.5 in late January and is ranked 194 by RotoBaller, meaning you won't pay a premium for a potential three-category contributor.
