April 10, 2016
Philadelphia Phillies — The Phillies won their first game of the season on Saturday, and it was Jeanmar Gomez who picked up the save. He only needed six pitches to retire the Mets in order. David Hernandez pitched a perfect 8th inning with two strikeouts. Meanwhile, Dalier Hinojosa came on in the 6th inning on Friday. Gomez should get the next save opportunity based on his strong performance last night, and we will move Hernandez back ahead of Hinojosa for now.
Updated hierarchy: *Gomez | Hernandez | Hinojosa.
* = closer-by-committee
Cincinnati Reds — J.J. Hoover rebounded on Saturday with a 1-2-3 9th inning to protect a four-run victory. Before the game, manager Bryan Price said that Hoover has earned the right to close out games based on what he has done in previous years. We are still not sold on Hoover’s potential as the Reds closer this year but he seems secure in the role for now.
Hierarchy remains: Hoover | Diaz | Cingrani.
Cleveland Indians – Bryan Shaw came on in the 7th inning yesterday to protect a one-run lead, but left after giving up five runs. Zach McAllister came on to strike out Alex Avila to end the inning. Manager Terry Francona said he went with Shaw over McAllister in the 7th inning based on matchups. We will slot McAllister onto our hierarchy and he could move to first in line behind closer Cody Allen if Shaw has any more outings like yesterday.
Updated hierarchy: Allen | Shaw | McAllister.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH:
1. Daniel Hudson, Arizona Diamondbacks – Brad Ziegler has pitched in two straight and three of four.
2. Kevin Jepsen, Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins threw 27 pitches yesterday and the Twins could be cautious with him early in the season.
3. Sergio Romo, San Francisco Giants – Santiago Casilla has pitched in two straight, including a 23 pitch blown save yesterday.
