Whritenour’s heater is legit—and Florida trusts him in the biggest moments
Joshua Whritenour emerged in 2026 as Florida’s primary closer, converting 7 saves and striking out 49 batters in 36 2/3 innings while holding hitters to a .223 average against. His fastball is the separator—he’s been described as a true power arm who can touch triple digits, with a sharp slider that gives him swing-and-miss upside in late innings. The bigger story: after missing all of 2025 following Tommy John surgery, he came back with high-leverage poise and enough bite to earn a spot on Team USA and a big role in the Gators’ bullpen.
