Brandon Kintzler can’t get save number 30 while Juan Minaya might be closer of the future for White Sox

October 1, 2017

Chicago White Sox – Juan Minaya picked up his ninth save of the season on Saturday night.  Minaya was a perfect 6-for-6 on save chances in the month of September, and after struggling with walks in August, he only gave up two walks in September.  A lot can happen in the offseason, but with Minaya getting more comfortable in the ninth inning, he could be an option to close for the White Sox in 2018.

Hierarchy remains: Minaya | Farquhar | Alburquerque.

Washington Nationals – Brandon Kintzler got the call in the ninth inning last night to protect a one run lead.  Kintzler was seeking his 30th save of the season, but unfortunately he gave up four runs and took the loss instead.  With one more regular season game, it’s possible that Kintzler gets another shot, but it’s more likely he will fall just short of the 30 save mark this season.

Hierarchy remains: Doolittle | Kintzler | Madson. 

VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today
1. Joe Kelly/Matt Barnes – Craig Kimbrel, Addison Reed, and David Price have all pitched two in a row.
2. Dellin Betances – Aroldis Chapman should get Sunday off, and the Yankees might try to get Betances back on track with a save chance.
3. Hector Rondon – The Cubs could rest Davis, Edwards, Strop and Wilson after they all pitched yesterday,
4. Bryan Shaw – The Indians will likely rest closer Cody Allen on Sunday after they clinched home field in the AL.
5. Joe Musgrove – Ken Giles got yesterday off but after pitching the two games prior, he will likely get another day off.  Youngster Joe Musgrove hasn’t pitched in a couple days so the Astros might plan on using him if there is a save chance.
6. Josh Fields – Kenley Jansen will almost certainly be rested on Sunday after getting a four out save yesterday.  However, with the Dodgers having nothing to play for, it’s tough to know who else will be rested.  We will throw out a long shot in Josh Fields, who is well rested.