July 24, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – It wasn’t the prettiest outing (1.1 IP, 1 H, 2 BB, 0 K), but Jose Alvarado managed to lock down his 4th save of the season on Monday night. Sergio Romo was unavailable due to a stomach bug, and appears to be basically the full-time closer at this point, but Alvarado is the best player to own should Romo get dealt in the next seven days. Also, with Diego Castillo’s recent struggles, keep an eye on righty Ryne Stanek (1.91 ERA, 47 Ks in 37.2 IP) to potentially get paired with Alvarado in a would-be closer committee.
Updated hierarchy: Romo | Alvarado | Stanek.
Chicago White Sox – After a rough stretch in early July, Jace Fry has rebounded with two scoreless outings after the All Star Break, including an 8th inning hold last night. Fry should be among those considered for 9th inning duties in the event of a Joakim Soria trade, though the White Sox might look to a committee in the early going.
Hierarchy remains: Soria | Fry | Cedeno.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today/tomorrow
1. Jordan Hicks – Bud Norris successfully hazed rookie Daniel Poncedeleon by blowing his win last night, but racked up 26 pitches in the process and might get tonight off. If he does go today, count on him being unavailable Wednesday.
Tomorrow
1. Jace Fry – If Joakim Soria goes tonight, it’ll be back to back and three of four.