Let's be honest—talking about a pitcher who's both healthy and dominating feels like jinxing a no-hitter in progress. We've watched so many aces hit the IL or struggle with command this season that it's almost tempting fate to celebrate when one is thriving.

But I'm going to say it anyway: Jacob Misiorowski is rising toward ace status, and it's getting harder to ignore.

You might think this is old news. After all, Misiorowski entered Wednesday's start against the Padres with a dazzling 2.45 ERA and eye-popping strikeout numbers. But just two months ago, he was a question mark—a talented arm coming off a rookie season where he posted a 4.63 ERA and faded down the stretch. Now? He's making believers out of everyone.

Wednesday's outing was his third straight without allowing a run. He went seven innings against San Diego, marking the fourth time in nine starts he's pitched at least six frames—a milestone he reached only three times in 14 starts last season. The command issues that plagued his rookie year? They're fading fast. Misiorowski has walked two or fewer batters in four straight starts and six of nine overall.

And the strikeouts? They're still there. He racked up 10 more Wednesday, giving him four double-digit strikeout games this season—matching Paul Skenes' career total after his recent gem. Let that sink in.

Look, I'm not saying Misiorowski is better than Skenes. But it's fair to ask if he's becoming a better strikeout pitcher. His four-seamer is generating a whiff rate north of 45%, and while that might not be sustainable, the fact that it's even in the conversation is remarkable. This is one of the best fastballs we've seen from a starting pitcher in years.

At this point, performance concerns about Misiorowski feel outdated. He's not just surviving—he's thriving, and the path to elite Fantasy ace status is wide open. If you've been holding your breath waiting for the other shoe to drop, it might be time to exhale and enjoy the ride.