Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Gregory Soto has emerged as the Pittsburgh Pirates' primary closer in 2026 after starting the season in a setup role. The 31-year-old left-hander has posted elite performance metrics with a 1.59-2.42 ERA (depending on date), 0.71-0.85 WHIP, and 26 strikeouts through 21.5+ innings. He has earned 4 saves while also recording 6 holds, demonstrating his versatility in high-leverage situations. Soto signed a one-year, $7.75 million deal with Pittsburgh and brings back-to-back All-Star experience from his time with Detroit (2021-2022). His advanced metrics are exceptional, ranking in the top 1-3% of MLB pitchers in exit velocity, hard hit rate, xBA, xOBP, and xERA (1.91). However, he recently suffered his second blown save on May 16 against Philadelphia, giving up 3 runs in the 9th inning, which has created some uncertainty about his job security despite Dennis Santana's continued struggles.
Strengths
- + Elite strikeout rate (36.5% K%, 26 K in 21.5 IP)
- + Exceptional advanced metrics (1.91 xERA, top 3% in baseball)
- + Top 1% exit velocity allowed (82.5 mph average)
- + Top 1% expected batting average against (.151 xBA)
- + Proven closer experience (30 of 33 saves in 2022 with Tigers)
- + Versatile high-leverage reliever
- + Back-to-back All-Star (2021-2022)
- + Strong WHIP (0.71-0.85)
- + 15 scoreless outings
- + Emerging as primary closer with momentum
About
Gregory Soto is a rp for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Player Overview
RP
Pittsburgh Pirates
Recent News
Schwarber hits majors-leading 20th HR as Phillies beat Pirates in extras
May 17, 2026
Bryce Harper went 4-for-5 with one run scored and two RBI in Philadelphia's win over the Pirates on Friday.
May 15, 2026
Gregory Soto allowed three runs (two earned) in the ninth inning on Friday to blow a save against the Phillies.
May 15, 2026
Hunter Goodman went 1-for-4 with a double and an RBI against the Pirates on Tuesday.
May 12, 2026
Paul Skenes tossed eight scoreless innings and got the win in the Pirates' 3-1 victory over the Rockies on Tuesday.
May 12, 2026