David Aardsma debuts for Mets, is probably already better than almost anyone else they’ve got

June 9, 2013

New York Mets – After a solid stint in AAA, David Aardsma was called up to the bigs and pitched a scoreless inning in the Mets marathon 20-inning loss on Saturday.  Given his past experience in the 9th, a couple good outings in a row could position him for an opportunity when Bobby Parnell needs a night off.  Hierarchy change: David Aardsma to 2nd in line, replacing Scott Rice.

.Closer.Set-Up.2nd in line.2014 Closer.Updated
NYMBobby ParnellBrandon LyonDavid AardsmaBobby Parnell6/9/13

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Detroit Tigers – Phil Coke has been better as of late.  This isn’t saying much, given that his ERA has been below 5 at exactly one point since opening day.  However, he’s strung together 5 straight scoreless appearances, including a nice outing on Saturday where he finished off the 7th and then pitched the 8th ahead of Jose Valverde.  Although Drew Smyly is having a much better season, Coke’s late-inning experience and recent stretch of respectability makes him the go-to lefty again in the Detroit bullpen.  Hierarchy change: Phil Coke to 2nd in line, replacing Drew Smyly.

.Closer.Set-Up.2nd in line.2014 Closer.Updated
DETJose ValverdeJoaquin BenoitPhil CokeBruce Rondon6/9/13

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Milwaukee Brewers – Jim Henderson was activated from the disabled list after Saturday’s game.  He should resume closing immediately.  Hierarchy change: Jim Henderson to Closer, Francisco Rodriguez to Set-up, Brandon Kintzler to 2nd in line.

(UPDATE: Ron Roenicke said this morning that Francisco Rodriguez, currently at 298 saves, will get a shot to reach 300. Unless Jim Henderson implodes in his temporarily-middle-relief role, this will likely play out similarly to what the Mets did with Jason Isringhausen a few years ago, allowing him to reach his milestone and then returning him to lower-stress role. Once K-Rod gets two more saves, Henderson will return as closer, and as such, we’ll leave Henderson in the closer spot in our hierarchy, assuming that he’ll re-assume the role in a week or two.)

.Closer.Set-Up.2nd in line.2014 Closer.Updated
MILJim HendersonFrancisco RodriguezBrandon KintzlerJim Henderson6/9/13

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VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde has pitched in three straight.
2. Dale Thayer, San Diego Padres – Luke Gregerson threw 20 pitches last night, and has racked up 4 IPs in the last 4 days.