October 1, 2016
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Arizona Diamondbacks — Jake Barrett hasn’t pitched for nine days; well over his previous high in appearances, it’s possible the young righty is done for the year. If so, he closed the season on an impressive 13-game scoreless streak, during which he allowed only two hits in 12.2 innings. Barrett could well be the favorite for saves next season in Arizona.
Updated hierarchy: *Hudson | Delgado | Burgos.
*closer-by-committee
Philadelphia Phillies — Michael Mariot pitched the seventh inning with the Phillies down, and gave up a couple runs in the process. It’s hard to see how anybody but Hector Neris gets any final save chances this year — that is, if the Phillies can somehow grab a lead over the Mets.
Updated hierarchy: *Gomez | Neris | Mariot.
*closer-by-committee
CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Saturday
1. Hector Neris, Philadelphia Phillies — The Phillies may not see a save opportunity against the Mets but, if they do, it will likely fall to Neris.
2. Kevin Siegrist, St. Louis Cardinals — Seung Hwan Oh has been battling a tight groin.
3. Hector Rondon, Chicago Cubs — Chicago has guaranteed the best record in baseball and might continue to rest their big-bucks closer.
4. Brad Ziegler/Matt Barnes, Boston Red Sox — Craig Kimbrel threw 20 pitches last night, and with the Red Sox locking up their division, he may sit the final two games of the season. Koji Uehara has been excellent in his return from injury, but John Farrell has been hesitant to use him in back-to-back games, and he pitched last night.
Sunday
5. Fernando Salas, New York Mets — Jeurys Familia has been a workhorse for the Mets this year, with 77 appearances, tied for third-most in the league. Directly above him with 79 is teammate Addison Reed. Both have pitched in three of four, but are probably still available since the Mets are in the midst of a wild card fight. If the Mets lock up a playoff spot tonight, though — with a win or a Cardinals loss — Salas could be the guy you see in Sunday’s ninth.
