Jhoan Duran

Duran missed the first month of the 2024 campaign due to a right oblique strain. Upon his return, the hard-throwing righty was called for most of Minnesota's save chances, though he was used earlier in games on occasion while ceding save opportunities to others. The flamethrower recorded 23 saves for a 53.5 percent team save share along with seven holds. Duran still averaged triple-digits on his fastball (100.5 mph, T-2nd among relievers), but his 28.9 percent strikeout rate and 14.8 swinging strike percentage both dipped from prior outputs. He maintained a 60-plus groundball percentage (99th percentile) for the third consecutive year, but his 61.5 LOB percentage attributed to inflated ratios. The upside remains of a top-five closer in the league, but Duran may have competition for closing duties, especially if Griffin Jax remains in the bullpen. Read Past Outlooks