Orion Kerkering Receives Failing Grade After Late-Season Reliever Collapse

Philadelphia Phillies reliever Orion Kerkering earned a failing grade for his 2026 campaign after a severe late-season collapse. Kerkering posted a 2.61 ERA through July 28 before allowing 23 runs over his final 16.2 innings, ending the year with a 4.97 ERA, 12.5% walk rate, and 0.3 fWAR across 62 appearances. His loss of command saw his leverage index plummet down the stretch, raising serious questions about his future role in the Philadelphia bullpen.