July 14, 2014
Los Angeles Angels – At one point, Mike Scioscia went out of his way to explain that he really wanted Joe Smith back in a middle relief role, where he could use him to get tough outs in the 7th and 8th innings. Well, those days are gone — Smith is locked into the closer role until further notice. Speaking of locked in, Kevin Jepsen has allowed just one run since May 4, a span of 31(!) appearances, with his last four outings coming the 8th ahead of Smith. If Smith should falter, Scioscia could still look to veteran Jason Grilli, but our money is now on Jepsen.
Updated hierarchy: Smith | Jepsen | Grilli.
San Francisco Giants – Sergio Romo has now thrown three solid 8th innings ahead of Santiago Casilla. While Jeremy Affeldt’s name was briefly thrown around for some 9th inning chances, Casilla has seized the job, and Romo has assumed the role of primary set-up man.
Updated hierarchy: Casilla | Romo | Affeldt.
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays had a nice, civilized 9th inning on Sunday, with Jake McGee taking over for a stellar David Price and pitching a 1-2-3 inning with 2 Ks. Every time this happens, we hope it’s a harbinger of some normalcy in Maddon-land, and thanks to the All Star break, we’ll be able to live with that blissful vision for the next four days.
Hierarchy remains: McGee | Balfour | Boxberger.
