Siegrist returns to Cardinals bullpen; Uehara finally gets save chance

July 28, 2014

St. Louis Cardinals — Kevin Siegrist has returned from the DL and despite taking the loss on Friday night, pitched a perfect eighth inning on Sunday against the top three bats in the Cubs’ order. The left-hander appears to be a solid option for holds going forward, but Jason Motte is still likely the third choice for saves behind Trevor Rosenthal and Pat Neshek.

Hierarchy remains: Rosenthal | Neshek | Motte.

Boston Red Sox — Koji Uehara struck out the side for his 21st save on Sunday in his first chance since July 19. Given the Sox’ recent struggles over their seven-game road trip this past week, it’s still extremely likely that Uehara is traded. Meanwhile, the Sox acquired 25-year-old Heath Hembree from San Francisco on Saturday as part of a deal for Jake Peavy. Hembree was the closer for Triple-A Fresno and could play a role down the road in Boston.

Hierarchy remains: Uehara | Mujica | Tazawa.

VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Dustin McGowan, Toronto Blue Jays – Casey Janssen has pitched in two straight games and has yet to appear on three straight days this season.