July 23, 2018
Toronto Blue Jays – Tyler Clippard picked up his 7th save of the season on Sunday afternoon, bouncing back from an atrocious outing on Friday. Ryan Tepera and Seung-Hwan Oh had pitched in the previous two games, and Tepera remains atop this committee for now, but the Blue Jays — perhaps with an eye on increasing trade value — seem content on giving multiple players opportunities in the 9th until Roberto Osuna’s return.
Updated hierarchy: *Tepera | Clippard | Oh.
* = closer-by-committee
Los Angeles Dodgers – After three rough starts to begin in major league career, 22-year-old Caleb Ferguson has thrived in long relief for the Dodgers. Since being moved to the bullpen, he’s allowed just 2 ER in 16 innings, and has struck out 20 hitters against just 2 walks. Yesterday, he picked up his second save of the season with three scoreless innings.
Hierarchy remains: Jansen | Goeddel | Alexander.
Kansas City Royals – Sunday brought another save for Wily Peralta, and he should be in the clear for all future opportunities, so long as he’s rested. We’re removing his asterisk. Also, if you like high-risk holds, sidearmer Tim Hill has a 5.59 ERA but has gotten 8th inning holds each of the past two nights.
Updated hierarchy: Peralta | Maurer | McCarthy.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today
1. Drew Steckenrider/Adam Conley – Kyle Barraclough has pitched two straight including a disastrous, 40-pitch outing last night, and should be off today.
2. Brandon Maurer – Wily Peralta has pitched in three straight.
Tomorrow
1. Ryan Madson – Kelvin Herrera threw 1.2 innings last night. He should be fine today, but we’d bet he gets Tuesday off if he goes again tonight.