July 31, 2018
Texas Rangers — After the trade of Keone Kela to the Pirates, the Rangers turned to Jake Diekman in the 9th inning. It didn’t end up being a save since the Rangers added a run in the 9th to make it a four-run lead, but it seems likely Diekman would be the guy to replace Kela as closer. The only problem is that Diekman is also likely on his way out the door before Tuesday’s trade deadline. We will put Diekman at the top for now, but Jose LeClerc could be a good speculative add as well in case Diekman gets traded.
Updated hierarchy: Diekman | Leclerc | Claudio.
Pittsburgh Pirates – The Pirates have acquired former Rangers’ closer Keone Kela. Felipe Vazquez should hang out to the closer’s job with Kela sliding into a set-up role alongside Kyle Crick.
Updated hierarchy: Vazquez | Kela | Crick.
