Jacob Latz reflects on unexpected transition to closer

The reliever finished the 2026 campaign with 30 saves.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 57m1 min read

"My mind was purely focused on being a starting pitcher." Jacob Latz geared up for 2026 as a starter before being named Via @MLBNetwork on X

What happened: Jacob Latz revealed he spent the offseason purely focused on being a starting pitcher before ultimately settling into a bullpen role for the Rangers. The left-hander finished the season as the team's primary closer.

Why it matters: The role change yielded results for Latz, who earned his first MLB All-Star selection in July. His performance provided late-inning stability for the pitching staff throughout the year.

By the numbers: Latz converted 30 saves during the 2026 season and earned a spot on the American League's 12-pitcher All-Star staff.

What to watch: The Rangers will evaluate their bullpen structure and his late-inning usage heading into 2027.

Sources

@MLBNetwork 2026-10-10T01:52:26.508779+00:00

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