June 8, 2014
Detroit Tigers — Joe Nathan continues to struggle as he gave up two runs last night in a non-save opportunity. After the game manager Brad Ausmus reiterated that they need Nathan to be their closer. However, Joba Chamberlain has not given up a run in his past 12 appearances and it’s possible that the Tigers give Nathan a break from closing to figure things out.
Hierarchy remains: Nathan | Chamberlain | Alburquerque.
Baltimore Orioles — Tommy Hunter pitched on a rehab assignment yesterday, striking out two in a perfect inning. Hunter could be activated as soon as today, but with the way Britton and O’Day are pitching, we don’t expect Hunter to immediately reclaim his closer’s job.
Hierarchy remains: Britton | O’Day | Webb.
Cleveland Indians — John Axford pitched a scoreless 9th inning with the Indians up 5 yesterday. Manager Terry Francona wants Axford to eventually return to the closer’s role but Cody Allen is pitching well so we don’t think the Indians will make a change at this time.
Hierarchy remains: Allen | Shaw | Axford.
Chicago Cubs – Pedro Strop recorded the save for the Cubs yesterday. Hector Rondon threw 32 pitches on Friday and Neil Ramirez had worked in back-to-back days so both were likely unavailable. Strop has thrown four scoreless innings since returning from his groin injury and could work his way back into the save conversation if he continues to pitch well.
Hierarchy remains: Rondon | Ramirez | Strop.
Atlanta Braves – Shae Simmons pitched the 8th inning ahead of closer Craig Kimbrel last night with the Braves holding a one run lead. Simmons now has a save and three holds in five appearances since getting called up.
Updated hierarchy: Kimbrel | Carpenter | Simmons.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joba Chamberlain, Detroit Tigers – Joe Nathan is likely unavailable today after throwing 32 pitches last night.
2. David Carpenter/Shae Simmons, Atlanta Braves – Craig Kimbrel blew the save last night and has pitched in two straight.