Does Gus Varland have a long-term future in the Nationals' bullpen?

"The right handed reliever has been solid pitching for the Nationals. He has a 3.07 ERA in 14 and two thirds innings pitched. He has also become the team's closer and has recorded four saves."

"Varland is not a complicated pitcher. For the most part, he throws two pitches. A fastball that averages 95.2 miles per hour and a slider that averages 87.5 miles per hour. Both of these pitches have velocity and movement profiles that are right around Major League averages. Varland also throws a changeup that he throws very rarely and only against left handed batters. With this rudimentary pitch mix, Varland has been successful."

"Varland has chase rates, whiff percentages and strikeout percentages that are all above average. However, the right hander has not shown off any qualities that demonstrate he is truly elite. He needs to work on developing a deeper arsenal and refining his current arsenal so his pitch shapes are not averages."

"Varland's one great quality is his ability to limit walks. Usually, relievers have higher walk rates than starters, but not Varland. He has only walked 4.8 percent of the batters he has faced which is in the 95t"

Gus Varland was claimed off waivers by the Nationals and has produced solid relief pitching, posting a 3.07 ERA over 14 2/3 innings. He has taken on closer duties and has recorded four saves. His major league experience is limited and has included time with multiple organizations, with much of last season spent in Triple-A Charlotte when healthy. His career ERA is 4.40, but his current opportunity is in a weaker Nationals bullpen. He primarily uses a fastball averaging 95.2 mph and a slider averaging 87.5 mph, plus an infrequent changeup versus left-handed hitters. His chase, whiff, and strikeout rates are above average, yet he has not shown elite traits. He needs a deeper arsenal and better left-handed matchups, along with more distinctive pitch shapes. His standout strength is limiting walks, with a 4.8% walk rate.

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