AL Central: Bullpen blues in KC
Jun 4 2026
Things have turned ugly for Lucas Erceg, as he has blown three straight saves while also getting shelled in a no-decision appearance on May 24; all told, he has given up 9 ER over his last 3 IP, raising his ERA from 3.26 to 6.45 over the last two weeks. Royals manager Matt Quatraro has said the team plans to stick with Erceg at closer, but these sorts of statements tend to stay valid only as long as the next blown save, and Erceg's 4.78 xERA, 4% K-BB%, and 10 BPV all suggest that his struggles are likely to continue.
It wasn't that long ago that Erceg was a speculative saves favorite, when he was coming off of a 2024 season where he put up a 3.36 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, 28% K%, 14.3% SwK, and 3.07 xERA while picking up 14 saves....
Almost!
You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!
Already a subscriber? Sign in here
More From PT Tomorrow
Connor Wong is one of several AL East catchers whose playing time outlook could be altered as teams seek upgrades at the trade deadline. Plus, a potential rotation upheaval in TOR, and Encarnacion-Strand emerging in BAL.
Jul 28 2026 3:05am
Jul 28 2026 3:05am
The Nationals bolstered their team for the stretch run and beyond by adding Connelly Early to their rotation, and all it cost them was Curtis Mead...and hopefully not their eternal souls. Plus: Acuña in ATL; SP in MIA; next men up at NYM; needs in PHI; more.
Jul 27 2026 8:39am
Jul 27 2026 8:39am
Two impact Padres' starting pitchers are close to a return. Plus implications of Will Smith's neck, Rockies OF situation, and check in on young players who may be getting their chance in the NL West.
Jul 25 2026 3:07am
Jul 25 2026 3:07am
Bernal is making his case for a potential late-season look
Jul 24 2026 3:05am
Jul 24 2026 3:05am
Shane Smith's awful season hasn't improved in the minors. Plus, two top prospects at Triple-A for CLE, Javier Báez starts a rehab assignment, and a look at SP depth in KC and MIN.
Jul 23 2026 3:05am
Jul 23 2026 3:05am
