Another adventurous Astros 9th inning, the beard struggling

April 27, 2014

Houston Astros — The Astros entered the 9th inning with a 4-run lead but they had to make it interesting.  Most of the usual suspects in Houston’s bullpen had thrown a lot of pitches on Friday, so manager Bo Porter went to lefty Raul Valdes after the lead was cut to one.  Valdes struck out both batters he faced for the save.  Nobody is pitching well in the Astros bullpen, but Valdes could see more save opportunities if he can continue to get lefties out.  No hierarchy change.

.Closer.Set-Up.2nd in line.2015 Closer.Updated
HOUJosh FieldsChad QuallsAnthony BassJosh Fields4/27/14
Jesse Crain (DL)Matt Albers (DL)

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Los Angeles Dodgers – Brian Wilson struggled for the second straight outing last night.  After giving up 4 runs on Thursday, Wilson was pulled last night after walking the first two batters he faced.  Chris Perez has pitched very well so far this season, as he has given up only 5 hits in 11.2 innings.   Hierarchy change: Chris Perez to Set-up, Brian Wilson to 2nd in line.

.Closer.Set-Up.2nd in line.2014 Closer.Updated
LADKenley JansenChris PerezBrian WilsonKenley Jansen4/27/14

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VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jim Johnson, Oakland A’s – Johnson was going to be the closer if there was a save opportunity on Friday and the A’s could be moving towards making Johnson their primary closer again.
2. Jordan Walden, Atlanta Braves – Craig Kimbrel has pitched in 2 straight and 3 of the last 4.
3. Jim Henderson, Milwaukee Brewers – K-Rod has pitched in 2 straight and 3 of the past 4.
4. Chad Qualls/Anthony Bass/Raul Valdez/Jose Cisnero, Houston Astros – Take your pick.