September 5, 2017
Kansas City Royals – Just when it seemed like Brandon Maurer was settling in, the righty got banged around to the tune of 5 hits (1 HR) and 3 earned runs on Monday before giving way to Scott Alexander, who got the game’s last out and picked up his third save of the season. In Maurer’s defense, this was his fifth appearance in the last seven days, and he was mostly sharp. His fastball touched 98 mph, and he got to two strikes on five of the seven hitters he faced. But with Kelvin Herrera likely out another day or two, look for Alexander and/or Mike Minor to share closing duties with Maurer for the next couple days.
Hierarchy remains: Herrera | Maurer | Minor.
Los Angeles Angels – After a blown save from Blake Parker, the Angels game stretched into the 11th inning, where their 12th(!) pitcher of the game, Keynan Middleton, finally picked up the save. We don’t figure that this slip up will be enough to push Parker back into a committee, but with Mike Scioscia at the reins — and the Angels just 0.5 games out of a Wild Card spot — you never know.
Hierarchy remains: Parker | Bedrosian | Petit.
Seattle Mariners – David Phelps was moved to the 60-day DL, ending his season. Obviously, he can safely be loose in holds leagues.
Hierarchy remains: Diaz | Vincent | Rzepczynski.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today
1. Mike Minor/Scott Alexander – Brandon Maurer is probably out today having pitched back to back and five of seven, and Kelvin Herrera’s availability is still questionable.
Tomorrow
1. Jeurys Familia – If AJ Ramos goes today, it’ll be three straight.
2. Joe Smith – If Cody Allen goes today, it’ll be back to back and four of five.