Kimbrel has now been DFAed, thereby ensuring Dominguez’s job security — even if Dominguez has looked shaky (and wild) in his last two outings. Dominguez has been used sparingly this month, and hasn’t been nearly as effective as when he first arrived in Charm City, but he’s proven he can handle high-pressure situations, thereby setting himself up as a closing option for 2025. Unless the O’s make a major move this offseason, he’s probably the best bet to earn saves given his 98 mph four-seamer.

Assad has been nothing if not steady; the last time he surrendered more than three runs in a start was way back on June 26 (a run of 10 straight starts), and he’s gotten better each month since, taking a tough luck loss in his only start this month. Impressively, he’s never had a losing record, and with 2.5 WAR accumulated already, he’s easily posting his finest season from a value perspective. Assad is poised on the mound and really knows how to sequence his arsenal well. There’s upside here heading into 2025, especially if he can sharpen his command.

He’s nearly recovered from July 2023 TJS, and is now facing live hitters in batting practice. Painter is not an option for this year, but he remains a solid prospect who you do not want to forget about as he’s already throwing 99 mph again.