NL Central: Mason Montgomery—closer?

Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pittsburgh Pirates are competing in a stacked National League Central for the first time since 2015. They're currently doing it without a defined closer, having traded David Bednar to the Yankees in 2025. Dennis Santana held the role for the second half of last season, notching 16 saves down the stretch along with a 2.18 ERA, but the 22.2% K% coupled with a 6.3% BB% never really screamed “closer.” Through his first 12 innings in 2026 he's only allowed one earned run, but under the hood there are concerns with just nine strikeouts and five walks during the early going.  

Manager Don Kelly hasn't seemed interested in anointing a closer, noting that he could use Santana earlier in games at times if the situation...

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

As the Mets shake things up, new opportunities for playing time will reveal themselves. Plus: 1B in WAS; SS in ATL; SP in MIA; Nola in PHI; more.
Jul 6 2026 9:00am
This week, we take a close look at Kyle Karros's impressive June, check in on a catching prospect in San Fran, and welcome back a few old friends.
Jul 4 2026 3:06am
Josh Lowe has returned from AAA and appears to be ready to take over the CF job in Anaheim.
Jul 1 2026 3:07am
Trent Grisham's looming return could remove either Spencer Jones or Jasson Domínguez from the Yankees' outfield. Plus, a new look infield in BOS, Dean Kremer nearing a return for BAL, and more.
Jun 30 2026 3:05am

Tools