Alexis Diaz moves to the top in Cincinnati

August 11, 2022

Cincinnati Reds — David Bell responded to Hunter Strickland’s recent struggles by announcing that Strickland would be moved out of the ninth inning for a while. Alexis Diaz is the best alternative in the Reds’ bullpen, but Bell likes to use him flexibly to face the middle of the lineup, so Joel Kuhnel, Reiver Sanmartin, and Buck Farmer could also see some chances.

Updated hierarchy: *Diaz | Kuhnel | Sanmartin.
* = closer-by-committee

Philadelphia Phillies — That’s back-to-back saves for Seranthony Dominguez, with David Robertson not appearing in Wednesday’s game. These two relief aces look to keep splitting save chances, but for now, it’s the 27-year-old with the slight edge.

Updated hierarchy: *Dominguez | Robertson | Alvarado.
* = closer-by-committee

Seattle Mariners — Diego Castillo returned from the injured list for Wednesday’s game and was immediately used in the eighth inning with a one-run lead. Castillo retired the Yankees in order with one strikeout and should immediately reassume his high-leverage role.

Updated hierarchy: *Sewald | Castillo | Muñoz.
* = closer-by-committee

Pittsburgh Pirates — Derek Shelton tried to get a two-inning save out of Wil Crowe on Wednesday, but Crowe loaded the bases in the ninth and departed after a confusing, run-scoring double play cut the Pirates’ lead to one. Enter lefty Eric Stout, likely summoned to avoid Arizona bringing in Josh Rojas as a pinch-hitter. Stout got a flyout and earned his first career save.

Hierarchy remains: Crowe | de los Santos | Underwood.

VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today:
1. Trevor Stephan (CLE) — Emmanuel Clase has pitched on four of the last five days.
2. Rafael Montero (HOU) — Ryan Pressly has pitched in two straight.
3. Yerry de los Santos (PIT) — So has Wil Crowe.
4. David Robertson (PHI) — Sure, Seranthony Dominguez has two straight saves, but he’s also pitched in three of four.

Friday:
1. Dillon Tate (BAL) — If Felix Bautista pitches Thursday, it’ll be three out of four.
2. Brandon Hughes (CHC) — An appearance today will be three of four for Rowan Wick.