Chris Perez returns; Astros giving Jose Cisnero a bigger role

June 27, 2013

Pittsburgh Pirates – After a taxing outing on Sunday, Jason Grilli has gotten a few days off.  On Wednesday, Mark Melancon pitched the 9th inning in his stead.  So far, there’s no indication that this is anything serious.  No hierarchy change.

.Closer.Set-Up.2nd in line.2014 Closer.Updated
PITJason GrilliMark MelanconJustin WilsonJason Grilli6/27/13

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Cleveland Indians – Chris Perez, sidelined since May 27 with a strained rotator cuff, will be activated today and will resume closing immediately.  Vinnie Pestano, who picked up five saves in his absence, will move back to a set-up role.  Hierarchy change: Chris Perez to Closer, Vinnie Pestano to Set-up, Joe Smith to 2nd in line.

.Closer.Set-Up.2nd in line.2014 Closer.Updated
CLEChris PerezVinnie PestanoJoe SmithChris Perez6/26/13

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Houston Astros – In pitching a scoreless 8th inning last night, Jose Cisnero lowered his season ERA to 2.14.  The young righthander has yet to give up a run in the month of June.  Despite his general competence (a quality not found in most Houston relievers), he hasn’t gotten much high-leverage work; he only has four holds on the season.  But his usage last night is an indication that Bo Porter might be trusting him with more big-game spots.  Hierarchy change: Jose Cisnero to 2nd in line, replacing Travis Blackley.

.Closer.Set-Up.2nd in line.2014 Closer.Updated
HOUJose VerasHector AmbrizJose CisneroJose Veras6/27/13

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VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Tommy Hunter, Baltimore Orioles – Jim Johnson has pitched in three straight.
2. Paco Rodriguez/Ronald Belisario, Los Angeles Dodgers – Kenley Jansen has pitched in four of the last five, including a 23-pitch outing last night.