ZiPS projects Lauer for 1.1 FWAR in 108 innings which is right in line with his 2025 season, although you appear to have conveniently ignored that projection as it doesn't fit your "replacement level" narrative. All of the other projections view him primarily as a relief arm with minimal starts under his belt. He's not a high end arm by any means but he's still a valuable piece to the overall pitching puzzle as a dude who can start and relieve as needed.