August 6, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Carlos Estevez had a rough outing last night, giving up four runs and recording only one out while trying to protect a two-run lead. This meltdown, which snapped a six-game scoreless streak for Estevez, was his second blown save in 13 attempts, and has led to speculation that Adam Ottavino will get the next save opportunity. Ottavino has been outstanding in 14 scoreless appearances since his return from Tommy John surgery; in fact, he hasn’t given up a run in exactly 23 months (25.1 IP). Walt Weiss said in July that he wanted to work Ottavino back into the closer’s role, and this game may serve as a catalyst. This may be your last shot to grab Ottavino before he officially takes over as the closer.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Ottavino | Logan.
Miami Marlins — After 50 appearances from the bullpen, David Phelps returned to the starting rotation Friday, pitching 4.1 scoreless innings on 70 pitches. Kyle Barraclough has earned three holds this week and will be Miami’s main seventh-inning man.
Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Rodney | Barraclough.
Toronto Blue Jays — Roberto Osuna was unavailable last night, so when the Jays took the lead in the ninth, they turned to the already-warm Joaquin Benoit to protect it. Benoit worked around an error and a single to pick up his first save of the year. Osuna should be back in action tonight.
Hierarchy remains: Osuna | Grilli | Benoit.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Adam Ottavino, Colorado Rockies — Even if Carlos Estevez doesn’t lose his job permanently, he has thrown 40 pitches over the past two days, and could need a break.
2. Tom Wilhelmsen/Drew Storen, Seattle Mariners — New closer Edwin Diaz has pitched in three of four (and five of seven).
3. Kevin Siegrist, St. Louis Cardinals — Seung Hwan Oh has pitched on three of the last four days.
4. Peter Moylan, Kansas City Royals — Kelvin Herrera threw 29 pitches in a loss yesterday, while Joakim Soria has gone back-to-back. This could open the door for Peter Moylan to pick up his first save of the year.