July 19, 2012
San Francisco Giants – Santiago Casilla continues to struggle, allowing two runs in the 10th inning last night before being bailed out by the Giants’ offense the next inning. He’s now blown 5 of his last 8 saves and remains firmly on the Hot Seat, as the Giants are reportedly testing the trade market for relievers. “We need him whether we make an adjustment or not,” Bruce Bochy told the San Francisco Chronicle. “I can’t answer that now. But there comes a time with every player when you have to change it up.” Despite the demands from fans, it’s still unlikely that Sergio Romo becomes a full-time closer this year, as the Giants don’t want him to pitch too frequently for fear he re-aggravates an injury. If Casilla is demoted, however, Romo could share the 9th inning role with Jeremy Affeldt. No hierarchy change.
|Closer |Set-Up |2nd In Line |2013 Closer |UpdatedSF |Casilla |Romo |Affeldt |Wilson |7/19/12 |Wilson(DL) |
Seattle Mariners – Charlie Furbush was placed on the DL yesterday with a strained triceps. Lefthander Lucas Luetge (1.46 ERA) will move into Furbush’s late-inning role. Hierarchy change: Lucas Luetge to 2nd in line, Charlie Furbush to DL.
|Closer |Set-Up |2nd In Line |2013 Closer |UpdatedSEA |Wilhelmsen |League |Luetge |Wilhelmsen |7/19/12 |Furbush(DL) |
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Sean Burnett, Washington Nationals – Tyler Clippard has given up three HRs and 5 ERs over the last two days. His job is not in jeopardy yet, but he could be given the day off today.
2. Sergio Romo/Jeremy Affeldt, San Francisco Giants – After Casilla’s latest outing, he may be given the day off today. Sergio Romo or Jeremy Affeldt would be candidates to clos ein his place.
3. Mike Dunn, Miami Marlins – The Marlins are employing a closer-by-committee and thus far, Steve Cishek and Mike Dunn have each picked up one save. Cishek is still the best bet for a save on any given night, but Dunn could get the call if the Marlins are facing a lefty-heavy 9th inning.
4. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
