April 11, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — We correctly anticipated Cody Allen’s night off, but Ty Buttrey got one too, leaving the save to Hansel Robles and his awe-inspiring entrance video. Call him Rambo.
Hierarchy remains: Allen | Buttrey | Robles.
Seattle Mariners — Anthony Swarzak bailed out the Mariners with a runner on in a tied eighth, so Roenis Elias came on once Seattle took the lead back against Brad Boxberger. Elias didn’t make things easy, loading the bases with two outs, but he induced a popup to escape with his second career save. The Mariners, predicted by PECOTA to win 75 games, are already 10 games over .500.
Hierarchy remains: *Swarzak | Elias | Festa.
* = closer-by-committee
Cincinnati Reds — David Hernandez has struggled, allowing runs in his last three appearances and striking out only one batter in five games. On Wednesday, Amir Garrett picked up a win after pitching a scoreless eighth in a tight game, and Raisel Iglesias followed it up with his first save of the year.
Updated hierarchy: Iglesias | Hughes | Garrett.
Houston Astros — As we predicted, Ryan Pressly was given the save opportunity after three straight days of work for Roberto Osuna. Pressly converted to complete the sweep of the Yankees.
Hierarchy remains: Osuna | Pressly | Rondon.
Texas Rangers — Jose Leclerc didn’t have it on Wednesday, but lefty Kyle Bird was there to get him out of a bases-loaded jam and earn a save.
Hierarchy remains: Leclerc | Martin | Kelley.
Tampa Bay Rays — Lefty Jalen Beeks earned a three-inning save in a 9-1 Tampa victory on Wednesday. Did you start him on your fantasy team? The first two readers who did, and send us proof, win free Premium for the season!
Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Castillo | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today:
1. Craig Stammen — Kirby Yates has pitched in two of three and four of six.
Friday:
1. Keone Kela — Felipe Vazquez needed 28 pitches in a five-out save on Wednesday.
