The year of closer volatility continued with Ryan Helsley being placed on the 15-day injured list ahead of his team’s game in New York, backdated to April 29:
In a perfect world, Rico Garcia would get the first chance at closing out games in the interim. He’s been one of the best relievers through the end of April this year, and leads the team in Win Probability Added:
However, being the team’s best-leveraged reliever, or the “fireman,” can necessitate his use before the ninth. Forced into a decision, I’m going with Garcia as my first choice to lead the team in saves in May. Through 15 appearances, he’s recorded his first career save, six holds, and suffered one blown save, posting a 0.37 WHIP with 15 strikeouts versus four walks (23.9 K-BB%). Also enticing: his 16.7 percent swinging-strike rate with a 64.2 percent contact rate allowed. Speaking of contact, he’s allowed 27 batted ball events with one barrel and only five hard hits (18.5 percent), fueling his 1.82 xERA.
Andrew Kittredge has closer experience and notched five last year between his time in Baltimore and with the Cubs. But, he’s just back from the injured list and may not be capable of appearing in consecutive games. I believe he profiles best as a setup reliever, not a closer.
Keegan Akin could get chances against left-handed heavy lineup pockets as well. Time will tell how roles are redefined.
As for Helsley, he joins the list of relievers fantasy managers must monitor going forward. If it’s a minimal stay, he can be back later this month. Stay tuned.
Projected Hierarchy: Rico Garcia | Andrew Kittredge | Keegan Akin