Victor Arano

Last season was a lost one for Arano. His spring went about as poorly as it could, as he gave up 20 runs in just four innings. He missed out of the Phillies' Opening Day roster, and while he was called up in mid-April, he didn't last long, pitching just 4.2 innings before landing on the injured list with an elbow issue which eventually required season-ending arthroscopic surgery. When healthy, Arano is an effective weapon near the back of the bullpen, though he's a clear step down from the top tier of relievers. In 74.2 career big-league innings, he's struck out 26.3% of opposing batters while walking 7.6%, en route to a 2.65 ERA (though a 3.20 FIP and a 3.78 xFIP suggest he's overachieved somewhat). Arano saved three games in 2018, and it's not impossible to envision him saving a handful more in 2020, but fantasy owners can afford to wait for him to prove that he's healthy and effective before investing.

Arano made the Phillies’ Opening Day roster and proved he belonged, remaining with the team all season (aside from a short stint on the disabled list) and posting a 2.73 ERA and three saves in 59.1 innings. He even spent a brief period of time as the Phillies’ prefered closer, with all three of his saves coming in a six-day span in early July. He’s unlikely to have much value in standard leagues this season unless he spends a longer time in that role, however, as his ratios aren’t at that elite level that makes a non-closing reliever a viable option. His 24.4% strikeout rate and 6.9% walk rate were each better than average. He’s a solid setup man but not a significant fantasy asset without unexpected save chances.

Arano earned a September callup to the Phillies as a 22-year-old and performed well in the 10.2 innings he threw, striking out 13 and walking four while putting up a 1.69 ERA. He threw his plus slider 51.7 percent of the time, earning him 11 of his strikeouts. The Phillies' bullpen lacks established arms, so Arano will have a chance to earn more innings this year, even if he starts the season in the minors. He won't have much appeal in standard leagues, as he's buried deep on the Phillies' depth chart and isn't even guaranteed a major-league role, but in deep dynasty formats he may be worth a look, as he has the makings of a future high-leverage reliever and potential closer.