July 29, 2022
Texas Rangers — After Brett Martin pitched three of four, Matt Moore was called Thursday upon to earn his second save, as referenced in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch. Moore has been excellent this season (1.70 ERA, 52 Ks in 47.2 IP) and could be in consideration for future save chances. Former closer Joe Barlow, meanwhile, will go on a rehab assignment this weekend as he works his way back. Martin hasn’t been impressive, so Barlow could return to the role at some point.
Updated hierarchy: *Martin | Moore | Burke.
* = closer-by-committee
Seattle Mariners — Diego Castillo was placed on the injured list with right shoulder inflammation. The issue isn’t considered to be too serious and it should require just the minimum stay on the IL.
Updated hierarchy: *Sewald | Swanson | Festa.
* = closer-by-committee
Boston Red Sox – Just as the Vulture Save Watch called for, Garret Whitlock was called upon Thursday to close out the Guardians for his third save. Tanner Houck had pitched in two straight.
Hierarchy remains: Houck | Whitlock | Schreiber.
Baltimore Orioles – Jorge Lopez got the day off after pitching in two straight, leaving Felix Bautista to record four outs (three by strikeout) for his third save.
Hierarchy remains: Lopez | Bautista | Tate.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today:
1. Jeff Hoffman (CIN) – Hunter Strickland and Alexis Diaz have gone in two straight.
2. Wandy Peralta (NYY) – Clay Holmes has also gone two in a row.
3. Luis Garcia (SD) – There’s no word yet on Taylor Rogers, but his days as closer could be numbered. Grab the handcuff.
Friday:
1. Anthony Bass (MIA) – A Friday outing would be three of four for Tanner Scott.
2. Felix Bautista (BAL) – Same as above for Jorge Lopez.
3. Garrett Whitlock (BOS) – Ditto for Tanner Houck.
4. Eli Morgan (CLE) – … and the above is also true for Emmanuel Clase.
5. Matt Moore/Brock Burke (TEX) – If he goes Friday, that’s four of six for Brett Martin.
6. Luis Garcia (SD) – Again, Taylor Rogers might not be closer much longer.