Jacob Latz: Everything you need to know

Latz retired all three batters faced in a scoreless eighth inning of Wednesday's 6-5 loss to the Athletics. Latz didn't allow a hit or run for the sixth time in eight appearances. Batters were 0-for-29 against him to start the season before Max Muncy took him deep April 10, and they're just 3-for-35 overall off the left-hander. Latz competed for a rotation spot during spring training but struggled, giving up 14 earned runs over 15.2 innings, and eventually began 2026 in the bullpen. He's not yet part of the group that's been give save opportunities, but Latz has emerged as a trusted late-inning arm for manager Skip Schumaker.

Latz struck out two over a scoreless seventh inning in Saturday's 2-0 loss to the Reds. Latz, who made a fill-in start for Jacob deGrom last week, has seamlessly transitioned to the bullpen. Saturday's outing was his second appearance out of the 'pen and second scoreless as a reliever. The Rangers are concerned with the left-hander's ability to get deep into games as a starter, so Latz could be an effective option in short bursts.

Latz struck out three and walked one across four scoreless and hitless innings in Saturday's 5-4 win over the Phillies. With Jacob deGrom scratched due to neck stiffness, Latz made the spot start for Texas after he lost out to Kumar Rocker for the fifth spot in Texas' rotation over the spring. Latz made easy work of the Phillies on 68 pitches but didn't factor into the decision. As long as deGrom is cleared for his next start next weekend, Latz should slot back into a long-relief role in the bullpen.