July 23, 2021
Los Angeles Dodgers – Yikes. After another blown save Thursday, Kenley Jansen has now allowed seven earned runs since Wednesday (!) and eight overall this week after giving up just five all season. Thursday’s loss wasn’t all his fault, though. The Giants’ Jason Vosler was originally ruled out at second for the game’s final out but that was overturned on replay. Then, Darin Ruf appeared to go around on a checked swing on a 3-2 pitch with the bases loaded, but the third-base umpire ruled that Ruf held the swing and sent him to first, enraging manager Dave Roberts, who after the game said, “I don’t think all the blame should be on Kenley.” While he’s kind of right, we’re talking three straight blown saves for Jansen since the break. So, will there be a new closer in LA? Not quite yet, as Roberts steadfastly supported Jansen after the game. Still, we’ll keep a close eye on the situation. Stay tuned.
Hierarchy remains: Jansen | Treinen | Kelly.
Tampa Bay Rays — Diego Castillo picked up his first save since before the All-Star break, tossing a clean ninth and striking out two in Thursday’s win. Pete Fairbanks picked up the first two second-half saves and could be in line for an opportunity Friday if Castillo needs some rest.
Hierarchy remains: *Castillo | Fairbanks | Springs.
* = closer-by-committee
Chicago Cubs — If Craig Kimbrel is traded, the returning Rowan Wick is a name to watch. He’s rehabbing with High-A and looking sharp while doing so. He’s worth a stash, especially in deep leagues.
Hierarchy remains: Kimbrel | Chafin | Tepera.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today:
1. Jose Cisnero (DET) — Gregory Soto has thrown in three straight.
2. Blake Treinen (LAD) — Kenley Jansen needs a break after allowing seven runs across Wednesday and Thursday.
3. Pete Fairbanks (TB) — Diego Castillo has pitched in three of four, and he’s a Ray.
4. Tyler Rogers (SF) — Jake McGee has also gone in three of four.
5. Noe Ramirez (ARI) — Arizona was off Thursday, but Joakim Soria has gone in four of six.
6. Daniel Hudson (WAS) — The Nationals were also off Thursday, but Brad Hand has been busy (80 pitches the last five days).
Saturday:
1. Adam Ottavino (BOS) – An outing Friday would be three in a row for Matt Barnes.
2. Emilio Pagan (SD) – Same as above for Mark Melancon.
3. Emmanuel Clase (CLE) – Ditto for James Karinchak.
4. Giovanny Gallegos (STL) – If Alex Reyes goes Friday, that would be three of four and five of seven for him.
5. Chad Green (NYY) – If Aroldis Chapman pitches Friday, that would be four of six for him.
6. Andrew Chafin (CHC) – If he’s still a Cub and pitches Friday, that would be three of four for Craig Kimbrel.