August 17, 2012
New York Mets – Jon Rauch again bailed out Frank Francisco in the 9th, retiring the only batter he faced for his third save of the season. Francisco remains on the Hot Seat, and could start losing save chances to Bobby Parnell if he doesn’t get his act together quick. No hierarchy change.
|Closer |Set-Up |2nd In Line |2013 Closer |UpdatedNYM |Francisco |Parnell |Rauch |Francisco |8/17/12
Oakland A’s – Jerry Blevins picked up his 9th hold of the season, pitching parts of the 7th and 8th innings ahead of Ryan Cook and Grant Balfour. Cook has now had scoreless outings since being demoted, and if Bob Melvin was serious about Cook’s demotion being temporary, then the young righty could win the job back soon. Grant Balfour, through no fault of his own, is now on notice. Hierarchy change: Jerry Blevins to 2nd in line, replacing Pat Neshek. Grant Balfour to Hot Seat.
|Closer |Set-Up |2nd In Line |2013 Closer |UpdatedOAK |Balfour |Cook |Blevins |Cook |8/17/12
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
