May 15, 2014
New York Mets — As we reported late Wednesday night, Kyle Farnsworth was released by the Mets in a bizarre, cost-cutting move, two days after he picked up a save against the Yankees. Collins promised a closer committee, and we think Jeurys Familia is the best-positioned of that bunch, followed by Jose Valverde. We’ll leave Jenrry Mejia ahead of Daisuke Matsuzaka for now, as his potential is much higher.
Hierarchy change: Familia | Valverde | Mejia.
Los Angeles Angels — This time it was Ernesto Frieri’s turn to set up Joe Smith for the save, and Mike Scioscia explained after the game that LA’s three-run lead freed him to use Frieri against the top of Philadelphia’s order. He clearly trusts Smith more, but he also wants Frieri to win the closer job permanently — and for that reason, Ernie keeps our top spot.
Hierarchy remains: Frieri | Smith | Kohn.
Houston Astros — Last September, we called the Houston bullpen a “hellscape.” It’s somehow worse now. Jesse Crain won’t be added to any roster for another two weeks. Matt Albers is out until mid-June. And now Anthony Bass is on the DL with a strained oblique. To make matters worse, Josh Fields — who has somehow allowed 14 runs in his last 3 IP — is replacing him on the roster. This hierarchy looks a lot like Cerberus.
Hierarchy change: Qualls | Sipp | Zeid.
Oakland A’s — Although the A’s blew a one-run lead in the eighth, Bob Melvin helpfully announced after the game that Sean Doolittle would have pitched the ninth in a save situation. The committee lives.
Hierarchy remains: Johnson | Doolittle | Gregerson.
Pittsburgh Pirates — After throwing 24 pitches in a simulated game on Wednesday afternoon, Jason Grilli pronounced himself “ready” to return to the Pirates. But given the description of his new book — by a Pirates blog, no less — as “a tour de force of delusional narcissism,” you may wish to take this news with a grain of salt.
Hierarchy remains: Melancon | Watson | Wilson.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joe Smith, Los Angeles Angels — See above.
2. Brandon Kintzler, Milwaukee Brewers — The Brewers went to K-Rod one too many times, and Kintzler is much better rested than the Fresh Prince.
3. Jonathan Broxton, Cincinnati Reds — The Reds have a doubleheader on Thursday and may not wish to use Aroldis Chapman in both games.