Benoit back as closer; two AL East relievers grab vulture saves

September 25, 2014

San Diego Padres — For the first time in nearly a month, Joaquin Benoit picked up a save thanks to a perfect ninth inning. He lowered his ERA to 1.52 and has picked up a save in seven of his last eight outings. While veteran Vulture Save Watch resident Kevin Quackenbush may get Thursday’s chance if needed, Benoit should get another crack at the ninth inning before the season is over.

Hierarchy remains: Benoit | Quackenbush | Thayer.

Baltimore Orioles — Darren O’Day entered the eighth inning with two outs and the tying run on deck. He got out of the jam without any further damage before completing a perfect ninth inning to earn his fourth save of the season.

Hierarchy remains: Britton | O’Day | Miller.

Toronto Blue Jays – Aaron Sanchez locked down a 1-0 victory for the Jays to earn his third save of the season. It was his first save since Sept. 3, and he was warming as the Jays were in the midst of a scoreless game in the eighth inning. While speculation remains as to whether Sanchez will remain in the bullpen or start next season, Casey Janssen hinted that he will explore free agency next year.

Hierarchy remains: Janssen | Sanchez | Cecil.

VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Casey Fien, Minnesota Twins
— Jared Burton has pitched in back-to-back games, throwing 45 pitches in that span.
2. Rafael Soriano, Washington Nationals — The Nats and Mets will play two on Thursday thanks to a Wednesday washout, so Soriano is a good bet to get the ninth in at least one of those two tilts as Drew Storen and Tyler Clippard are both rested for the postseason.
3. Jeurys Familia, New York Mets — With a doubleheader on the docket, Jenrry Mejia may get a rest in the second game.
4. Kevin Quackenbush, San Diego Padres — As mentioned above, Joaquin Benoit might not get two save chances in a row.