April 21, 2023
Chicago Cubs – Michael Fulmer had a rough outing Thursday, yielding four runs on three hits and a walk while recording just one out to take his second loss. His ERA is now above 7.00 and recent evidence suggests he might not be the top option for saves. He tossed a scoreless eighth inning in a 4-0 win Tuesday and pitched the eighth last Sunday to set up Brad Boxberger, who converted the save then. We’ll slide Boxberger up, especially given the disparity in their numbers – 1.23 ERA, 1.09 WHIP for Boxberger and a 7.56 ERA and 1.80 WHIP for Fulmer.
Updated hierarchy: *Boxberger | Fulmer | Hughes.
* = closer-by-committee
Los Angeles Dodgers – Evan Phillips was placed on the paternity list, so he will be out of action for a few days. Expect Brusdar Graterol to get the bulk of the save chances in his stead. While we’re talking about the Dodgers, it’s time to address how bad Alex Vesia has been to start the season – 11.12 ERA, 3.53 WHIP. He won’t be sniffing the ninth anytime soon. We’ll slide up Caleb Ferguson, who has looked impressive in the early going (2.45 ERA, 1.09 WHIP).
Updated hierarchy: *Phillips | Graterol | Ferguson.
* = closer-by-committee
Boston Red Sox – It appears the days of “high-leverage Ryan Brasier” are already over. Brasier was used in mop-up roles Wednesday (he allowed three runs with the Red Sox trailing 7-2) and Thursday (he allowed two runs with the Red Sox leading 11-2). He now has a 7.94 ERA and a 1.76 WHIP. With Chris Martin injured, look for John Schreiber and Josh Winckowski to set things up for Kenley Jansen.
Updated hierarchy: Jansen | Schreiber | Winckowski.
Chicago White Sox – We are incredibly happy to report that Liam Hendriks is now cancer-free! The White Sox closer made the announcement on social media on Thursday. Remember that he was not placed on the 60-day IL to start the season, so perhaps he could return at some point soon. No timetable has been announced yet but we will keep you posted.
Hierarchy remains: *Lopez | Graveman | Bummer.
* = closer-by-committee
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today:
1. Luis Garcia (SD) – Josh Hader has gone in two straight.
2. Brusdar Graterol (LAD) – Evan Phillips is on the paternity list.
Saturday:
1. Colin Holderman (PIT) – If he goes Friday, that would be three of four for David Bednar.
2. Craig Kimbrel (PHI) – Same as above for Jose Alvarado.
3. Caleb Ferguson (LAD) – If Evan Phillips is still on the paternity list and Brusdar Graterol pitches Friday (which make it three of four for him), perhaps Caleb Ferguson gets a chance.
4. Jose Quijada (LAA) – A Friday outing would be three of five for Carlos Estevez.