July 8, 2017
Atlanta Braves — Arodys Vizcaino’s injury came at a bad time for the Braves. In danger of completely falling out of contention, the team has no obvious backup plan to replace Jim Johnson and his league-leading seven blown saves, and it faces decreasing returns if it seeks to move the veteran before the trade deadline. Vizcaino owners are in the odd situation of having to root for Johnson to improve, at least over the short term.
Hierarchy remains: Johnson | Ramirez | Freeman.
Los Angeles Dodgers — 25-year-old Brock Stewart pitched a perfect seventh and eighth with a three-run lead to get the ball to Kenley Jansen. Stewart still projects as a #3 or #4 starter long-term, but he wouldn’t be the first one of those to wind up at the back end of the bullpen. Worth keeping an eye on.
Hierarchy remains: Jansen | Baez | Morrow.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today:
1. Brad Brach — Zach Britton threw 22 pitches in a non-save situation and has gone in two of three.
2. Jose Ramirez/Jason Motte — Jim Johnson has pitched in two straight, including a 30-pitch blown save on Friday. Ramirez has gone in two straight and Sam Freeman three, so Jason Motte could get a look.
3. Taylor Rogers/Tyler Duffey — Brandon Kintzler has appeared in four of five and five of seven, while Rogers has gone in two straight and three of four.
4. Pedro Baez — Kenley Jansen has pitched in three of four and Baez is well-rested.
Sunday:
1. C.J. Edwards — Wade Davis has gone in two of three.
2. Archie Bradley — Fernando Rodney has gone in two straight.