July 18, 2017
Washington Nationals – In case you didn’t see our updated post from yesterday, we jumped the gun a bit on Ryan Madson, though we still think he’s the most likely candidate to grab hold of the 9th inning. However, the Nationals are still apparently looking for additional bullpen help, so Madson’s spot as the top dog in the committee could be short-lived. In other news, Koda Glover was moved to the 60-day DL, meaning he can’t pitch again until Aug. 9 at the earliest. Also, the Nationals won by 5 last night, using Matt Grace for the 9th inning, so despite his consecutive saves this weekend, he’s still probably below at least three other players in the committee.
Hierarchy remains: *Madson | Doolittle | Albers.
* = closer-by-committee
Baltimore Orioles – With Zach Britton still working his way back from injury, Brad Brach got another save last night. Our guess is this was Brach’s last opportunity for now, though he could quickly regain the job if Britton gets dealt.
Hierarchy remains: Britton | Brach | O’Day.
St. Louis Cardinals – Undaunted by Brett Cecil’s blown save on Sunday, the Cardinals sent him back out for the 9th inning again on Monday. This time, the lefty converted. Look for him to continue to get opportunities when the matchups make sense.
Updated hierarchy: *Rosenthal | Cecil | Oh.
* = closer-by-committee
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today
1. Chris Devenski/Luke Gregerson – Ken Giles has gone back to back and three of four; so has Chris Devenski, though his pitch count has been lower.
2. Tony Zych/James Pazos – Edwin Diaz and Nick Vincent have both pitched in FOUR straight. Steve Cishek has gone in three straight. It’ll be matchup roulette in the 9th inning tonight.
Tomorrow
1. Koji Uehara – Wade Davis threw 28 pitches last night; another extended outing today and he could get Wednesday off.
2. Michael Lorenzen – If Raisel Iglesias goes today, it’ll be back to back and three of four.
3. Chris Devenski/Luke Gregerson – See above. If Giles goes today, he’ll definitely be out tomorrow.
4. Pat Neshek/Joaquin Benoit – If Hector Neris goes today, it’ll be three straight.
5. Ryan Tepera/Danny Barnes – If Roberto Osuna goes tonight, it’ll be three straight.
