August 8, 2018
Washington Nationals — Kelvin Herrera left his ninth-inning appearance on Tuesday with what was announced as right shoulder tightness and will get an MRI on Wednesday. Should Herrera need a stint on the DL, Ryan Madson is a safe bet to take over as closer for the Nationals.
Hierarchy remains: *Herrera | Madson | Miller.
* = closer-by-committee
Miami Marlins – Don Mattingly announced yesterday that Kyle Barraclough is out as Marlins closer for the time being. Mattingly said he’d use a committee in the ninth inning for now — we like Drew Steckenrider to lead it.
Updated hierarchy: *Steckenrider | Conley | Guerra.
* = closer-by-committee
Philadelphia Phillies – Seranthony Dominguez earned a night off after throwing 29 pitches over the last two days, which led to Pat Neshek earning his second save of the season on Tuesday. Victor Arano preserved the Phillies’ lead by getting out of an inherited jam in the eighth inning.
Hierarchy remains: *Dominguez | Arano | Neshek.
* = closer-by-committee
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today
1. Ryan Madson – Even if Kelvin Herrera avoids the DL, he should have today off.
2. Jordan Hicks – Bud Norris has pitched in three of the last four. The Cardinals are off on Thursday, but they could still opt to give Norris an extra day of rest today.
Tomorrow
1. Matt Barnes – Craig Kimbrel threw 22 pitches on Tuesday and may get Thursday off if he has a second consecutive lengthy outing.
2. Trevor Hildenberger/Addison Reed – An appearance tonight will be two straight and three of four for both Fernando Rodney and Trevor Hildenberger.
3. Justin Miller – Ryan Madson will have pitched in two straight and four of five should he get the ball on Wednesday. Miller may get the ninth inning if Kelvin Herrera needs an extended break.
