April 23, 2015
Detroit Tigers – The big league club got blown out, but the real story was with the Toledo Mud Hens. Joe Nathan was pulled from his rehab assignment after re-injuring his throwing arm. This is bad news for Nathan owners, but good news for Soria owners, as Soria seems locked in to the closer’s role for the time being.
Hierarchy remains: Soria | Chamberlain | Krol.
Tampa Bay Rays — Manager Kevin Cash earned a lot of praise Wednesday night for his willingness to use closer Brad Boxberger in the seventh inning of a tie game. The move paid off, as Boxberger struck out the heart of the Red Sox order. This led to Steven Geltz earning his first Major League save. Cash is of the mindset that his best reliever should pitch the most volatile situation, and this means that we’re back to calling this a committee for the time being. Boxberger is still the clear favorite for saves, but don’t be surprised if he is used in the seventh or eighth depending on the situation.
Hierarchy remains: *Boxberger | Jepsen | Frieri.
* closer-by-committee
Pittsburgh Pirates — After Tuesday’s troubles, Mark Melancon was ruled unavailable by manager Clint Hurdle before Wednesday’s game, with Hurdle maintaining that Melancon is still the closer. In a one-run game it was Tony Watson who got a six-out save for the Pirates in Melancon’s stead. As we noted yesterday, Melancon’s velocity is down and he has struggled mightily this season. Despite Hurdle’s statement, still expect to see Melancon on the hot seat in our weekly column.
Hierarchy remains: Melancon | Watson | Hughes.
Chicago Cubs — Jason Motte has had a rough start to the season, sporting an ERA over 6.00 in the early going. Edwin Jackson is reaping the benefits, and recently got a vote of confidence from his manager, saying he has earned the right to pitch in higher leverage situations. Maddon was quick to note that this was not a reflection on Motte or Brian Schlitter, but be ready to see Jackson picking up more holds for the Cubs.
Updated hierarchy: Rondon | Strop | Jackson.
Los Angeles Dodgers — Kenley Jansen is continuing his road back to bullpen this week with some bullpen sessions and a minor-league assignment could be on tap late next week. If everything goes as planned, Jansen is on target for a mid-May return.
Hierarchy remains: *Peralta | Hatcher | Baez.
*closer-by-committee
Toronto Blue Jays – Miguel Castro got a four-out save, but his committee colleagues Roberto Osuna and Brett Cecil also put in scoreless appearances. If all three continue to pitch well, manager John Gibbons may have more difficult decisions to make with the late innings. For now though, Castro is the favorite.
Hierarchy remains: *Castro | Osuna | Cecil.
*closer-by-committee
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jumbo Diaz, Cincinnati Reds — Aroldis Chapman has pitched in two straight and the Reds have a matinee matchup.
2. Roberto Osuna/Brett Cecil, Toronto Blue Jays — John Gibbons may use his relievers in different roles based on matchups.
