Tigers’ bullpen implodes, Boxberger bounces back

July 11, 2015

Detroit Tigers – It was an ugly night for the Tigers’ bullpen on Friday.  Bruce Rondon came on to get the last out of the 8th inning and then came back to try and close out a five run lead.  He allowed three hits, while only getting one out, and the Tigers decided it was time to bring in their closer.  Soria walked the first batter he faced to load the bases, and then hit the next batter to bring in a run.  After a single drove in two more, Brian Dozier came up and hit a walk-off homer.   As a result of Friday night’s debacle, Soria’s ERA jumped over a full run to 3.38 and Rondon’s ERA sits at 10.50.  In other news, former Tigers’ setup man Joba Chamberlain was released on Friday and is now a free agent.

Hierarchy remains: Soria | Rondon | Alburquerque.

Tampa Bay Rays — Brad Boxberger bounced back from losses in his past two appearances, including giving up a walk-off grand slam, to record his 21st save yesterday.  Boxberger owners were happy to see that his recent struggles don’t appear to have impacted his status as closer, but Jake McGee, and his sixteen straight scoreless appearances, is still lurking.

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.

VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Bryan Shaw, Cleveland Indians
– Cody Allen has pitched in three straight
2. LaTroy Hawkins, Colorado Rockies – John Axford has also pitched in three straight, including a 31 pitch outing on Wednesday
3. Bruce Rondon/Al Alburquerque, Detroit Tigers – Soria blew the save last night in epic fashion and will likely get the day off Saturday.  Rondon also had a rough outing on Friday so if the Tigers want to give him a break as well, Alburquerque could get the call.
4. Joe Smith, Los Angeles Angels – Huston Street will be unavailable until the All-Star break.