Dennis Santana DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Pittsburgh Pirates right-handed pitcher Dennis Santana has been activated from the bereavement list prior to Sunday's contest against the San Diego Padres. In a corresponding move, the Pirates have optioned right-handed pitcher Kyle Nicolas to Triple-A Indianapolis. Through his first 12 1/3 innings of the season, Santana has been a reliable high-leverage option out of the bullpen, holding a stellar 1.46 ERA and a 0.89 WHIP. Across this stint, Santana has struck out just seven batters but has tallied three saves. While Santana was sidelined, David Bednar returned to the closer role, but given Bednar's early-season struggles, Santana could still be in the mix to see the majority of save situations. However, given the potential for a timeshare, he should only be started in deeper 12+ team formats.

The Pittsburgh Pirates placed right-hander Dennis Santana on the bereavement list on Tuesday, according to manager Derek Shelton. Right-handed reliever Hunter Stratton took Santana's spot on the active MLB roster. Santana will be away from the team for a few days but could be back and available to work in relief for Friday's series opener at PNC Park against the visiting San Diego Padres. While Santana is away from the Bucs for a few days, right-hander David Bednar should see any save chances that arise. Santana has been sharp so far in 2025 in his 13 relief appearances for the Pirates, allowing only three runs (two earned) on eight hits while walking three and striking out seven with three saves in 12 1/3 innings pitched. He should be back with the club at some point this weekend.

Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher Dennis Santana earned his second save of the season on Thursday afternoon during their victory over the Washington Nationals. Santana entered the game in the ninth inning and only needed to record two outs as Ryan Borucki started the inning. Santana retired both batters he faced. First, he got outfielder Dylan Crews to hit a ground out, and then proceeded to strike out infielder Luis Garcia Jr. With David Bednar being optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis, Santana has emerged as the favorite for save opportunities in the Steel City. Through his first nine innings of the season, the 29-year-old right-hander has held a 2.00 ERA with a 1.00 WHIP. He has struck out five batters but has generated a high 5.54 xERA, which suggests he could face some regression. Despite his underwhelming metrics, he is a viable target for saves in deeper formats.