March 25, 2016
Milwaukee Brewers – Will Smith, who was set to open the season sharing the closer role with Jeremy Jeffress, has some “concerning” swelling in his knee and will undergo testing. Should the injury be serious, Jeffress’s value would increase greatly, and Corey Knebel could also benefit with extra 8th inning looks or the occasional save. We will monitor the situation closely.
Hierarchy remains: *Smith | Jeffress | Knebel.
* = closer-by-committee
Texas Rangers – While Jeff Banister was quick to note that Shawn Tolleson is definitely still the closer in Texas, he also said that Tolleson was a short ways behind the other Texas relievers in terms of how they’ve all progressed this spring, and added that he would occasionally play matchups in the 9th. For Tolleson owners, hopefully this is just bluster, but if Banister is serious, then perhaps Sam Dyson or Keone Kela could get an occasional save chance.
Hierarchy remains: Tolleson | Dyson | Kela.
Tampa Bay Rays – Danny Farquhar has had a strong spring, including a nice outing yesterday. But Alex Colome has done just fine himself, and neither reliever has distinguished himself in the race to replace the injured Brad Boxberger. However, the duo have distanced themselves from their nearest competition — Xavier Cedeno and Steve Geltz — both of whom are getting knocked around in spring. Unless your league is especially deep, these are probably the only two relievers worth owning for now.
Hierarchy remains: *Farquhar | Colome | Cedeno.
* = closer-by-committee