September 17, 2015
Houston Astros — Luke Gregerson left the team to attend the birth of his first child. With the Astros in a race for the playoffs, we expect that this will be a short term leave; in fact, Gregerson wasn’t placed on the paternity list. Pat Neshek is the most likely candidate for saves, but manager A.J. Hinch said he won’t hesitate to use Neshek in the most important spots, whether or not it’s the ninth inning.
Hierarchy remains: Gregerson | Neshek | Harris.
San Diego Padres — Kevin Quackenbush has had a rough couple outings, failing to record an out in two straight appearances. Meanwhile, Nick Vincent has been stellar since his Sept. 1 recall, not allowing an earned run in 10 September appearances. While the Padres don’t figure to win too many games down the stretch, Vincent could be a sneaky source of holds if they start playing better.
Updated hierarchy: Kimbrel | Benoit | Vincent.
Los Angeles Dodgers — Kenley Jansen continued his impressive season, nailing down his 32nd save with a clean inning last night. However, with the Dodgers holding a 7.5 game lead in the NL West, they may look to limit his workload going forward in order to save him for the playoffs. Jansen wasn’t used in a non-save situation on Tuesday during a lengthy extra-innings affair, and if the Dodgers keep Jansen from throwing back-to-back days no matter what, Chris Hatcher would benefit.
Hierarchy remains: Jansen | Hatcher | Johnson.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Fernando Rodney/Pedro Strop, Chicago Cubs – Hector Rondon threw 33 pitches over two innings last night, while Strop has pitched in back-to-back games.
2. Arquimedes Caminero, Pittsburgh Pirates – Not only might Mark Melancon need a day off, but Joakim Soria, Tony Watson and Antonio Bastardo have also pitched in each of the last three games. Could be a deep look into the bullpen if the Pirates need a save on Thursday.
3. Pat Neshek, Houston Astros – Luke Gregerson is with his wife and new child.
4. Kevin Siegrist, St. Louis Cardinals – Trevor Rosenthal has appeared in back-to-back games and may get a rest.