Should Jonathan Papelbon be traded, Mike Adams has the edge for saves in Philly

June 14, 2013

Philadelphia Phillies – The Philadelphia bullpen hasn’t been a point of strength this season, and it’s been touch-and-go in terms of getting the ball to Jonathan Papelbon, who until last night didn’t have a single save in June.  After Antonio Bastardo got knocked around on Wednesday, blowing the game in the 7th inning and eventually taking the loss, the Phillies went to Mike Adams in the 8th inning on Thursday.  Adams hasn’t been as good since coming off the disabled list, but after last night, he’s probably moved past Bastardo again on the depth chart.  For speculators, the 8th-inning battle in Philly is worth watching, as Papelbon is a candidate to be dealt some time this summer.  Hierarchy change: Mike Adams to Set-up, Antonio Bastardo to 2nd in line.

.Closer.Set-Up.2nd in line.2014 Closer.Updated
PHIJonathan PapelbonMike AdamsAntonio BastardoJonathan Papelbon6/14/13

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Cincinnati Reds – Jonathan Broxton was supposed to have the night off on Thursday, but was pressed into duty when the Reds game stretched into the 14th inning.  He ultimately took the loss, allowing a run on two hits and a walk.  Broxton confirmed after the game that he was hurting a bit, and this wasn’t an issue of overuse — he’d had three days off prior to yesterday.  Broxton’s fastball velocity is down this year, and after last night, his ERA sits at 4.33.  If he’s now dealing with arm trouble, then Sam LeCure could be inheriting the 8th inning role soon.  No hierarchy change.

.Closer.Set-Up.2nd in line.2014 Closer.Updated
CINAroldis ChapmanJonathan BroxtonSam LeCureJonathan Broxton6/14/13

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VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Ryan Cook/Sean Doolittle, Oakland A’s – Grant Balfour has pitched in three straight.  If he can’t go tonight, Ryan Cook is the best bet for a save opp, though Sean Doolittle could also get a chance if the A’s face a lefty-heavy 9th inning.
2. Francisco Rodriguez, Milwaukee Brewers – K-Rod will continue to steal opportunities from Jim Henderson until he reaches 300 saves for his career.  He’s currently at 298.