J.J. Putz regaining his form; Manny Parra is on a roll

July 26, 2013

Cincinnati Reds – On June 7, Manny Parra had a 7.71 ERA, a 2.40 WHIP, and seemed to be on the verge of losing his job.  But since then, he’s rattled off 18 straight scoreless appearances, turning himself into the go-to lefty in the Cincinnati bullpen.  It hasn’t been a fluke — during his dominant stretch, he’s struck out 17 hitters while walking only three — and last night, he was summoned to finish off the 8th inning, earning his sixth hold of the season.  Hierarchy change: Manny Parra to 2nd in line, replacing J.J. Hoover.

. Closer . Set-Up . 2nd in line . 2014 Closer . Updated
CIN Aroldis Chapman Sam LeCure Manny Parra Jonathan Broxton 7/26/13
Jonathan Broxton (DL)

.
Arizona Diamondbacks – J.J. Putz was summoned in the 8th with the tying run at the plate, and successfully got the last out of the inning.  Though Brad Ziegler is seeming more solid in the closer role with every appearance, Putz is probably the guy with the best chance to challenge him at the moment, as David Hernandez has given up runs in 6 of his last 11 appearances.  Hierarchy change: J.J. Putz to Set-up, David Hernandez to 2nd in line.

. Closer . Set-Up . 2nd in line . 2014 Closer . Updated
ARI Brad Ziegler J.J. Putz David Hernandez J.J. Putz 7/26/13

.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. LaTroy Hawkins, New York Mets – Bobby Parnell has pitched in four of the last six, throwing 72 pitches in that span.
2. John Axford, Milwaukee Brewers – If the Brewers are alternating save opps, then Axford could get the call on any given night.