Detroit Tigers left-hander Gregory Soto is a special arm out of the bullpen. Entering the 2021 season, his third year in the majors, the 26-year-old is trying to lock down the coveted closer role.
His resume explains everything: A 100 mph fastball, a nasty wipeout slider and — the drawback, like so many Tigers closers before him — too many inconsistencies. Just as ex-Tigers closer Todd Jones picked up the "Roller Coaster" nickname, the less-experienced Soto sometimes takes his passengers for a less-than-thrilling ride.
The next step in his development will be determined by maintaining his command and staying in the strike zone with his Aroldis Chapman-esque repertoire.