Aroldis Chapman is OK, but Yankees may give him extra rest when they can

July 9, 2018

New York Yankees – The Yankees got good news on Aroldis Chapman on Sunday morning, as the recurring knee tendinitis which led to his brief appearance Saturday didn’t appear to be serious. But while Chapman was ostensibly available, Aaron Boone elected to give him the day off, and David Robertson picked up the 10th inning save in his place. Look for the Yankees to continually be cautious with Chapman when they can.

Hierarchy remains: Chapman | Betances | Robertson.

Los Angeles Angels – Blake Parker had pitched in back to back and three of four games, so Justin Anderson was tapped for the save last night against the Dodgers. The Vulture Save Watch strikes again.

Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Anderson | Bedrosian.
* = closer-by-committee

VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today
1. Kirby Yates – Brad Hand went 2 innings last night.
2. Pedro Strop – Brandon Morrow has pitched in back to back games, and we’re not certain the Cubs would have him go three straight at this point.
3. Dellin Betances / Brad Brach – The Yankees and Orioles have a doubleheader today.
4. Anthony Swarzak – So do the Mets and Phillies (but the Phillies use everyone everywhere anyway).

Tomorrow
1. Kyle Crick/Edgar Santana – Felipe Vazquez, Crick, and Santana have all gone in back to back games. Monitor tonight’s usage to see who will be available tomorrow.
2. Drew Steckenrider – If Kyle Barraclough goes today, it’ll be back to back and three of four.