April 6, 2019
Los Angeles Dodgers — Joe Kelly was hit on the wrist by a comebacker in the 9th inning last night. X-rays came back negative, and Dave Roberts doesn’t expect him to miss much time, but if he does hit the IL, other members of the bullpen could get a chance to prove themselves. Scott Alexander has been solid in the early going and may pick up some of the slack if Kelly misses a few games.
Hierarchy remains: Jansen | Kelly | Ferguson.
Pittsburgh Pirates – Kyle Crick’s absence on Thursday was explained when he hit the IL on Friday with triceps tightness. Richard Rodriguez ascends in his absence.
Updated hierarchy: Vazquez | Kela | Rodriguez.
Seattle Mariners — Cory Gearrin’s struggles continue. He gave up two walks and a HBP last night, and it is hard to imagine that the Mariners will run him out in a high-leverage spot anytime soon. Anthony Swarzak remains at the top of this committee and Roenis Elias will spell him when necessary. Matthew Festa has yet to give up a run and has three holds in his first four appearances. While he doesn’t have overpowering stuff, he’s been effective in his brief time in the majors.
Updated hierarchy: Swarzak | Elias | Festa.
* = closer-by-committee
Los Angeles Angels — Cody Allen locked up the first save of the Angels’ season on Friday. We haven’t seen much of the team’s bullpen — they haven’t held many leads — but last night they pitched well. Ty Buttrey took the eighth and pitched to the heart of the Rangers order, while Hansel Robles pitched a clean seventh. Buttrey has been a little bit better to start the season, so he slides up to first in line, but he and Robles will split time as the bridge to Allen.
Updated hierarchy: Allen | Buttrey | Robles.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today:
1. AJ Minter — Arodys Vizcaino has pitched in two of three, including a 27-pitch outing last night.
Sunday:
1. Joe Jimenez — An appearance today would be four of five for Shane Greene.
2. Ty Buttrey — Today would be three in a row for Cody Allen.
3. Seranthony Dominguez — David Robertson has gone in two of three.
4. Craig Stammen/Trey Wingenter — So has Kirby Yates.
5. Diego Castillo — And Jose Alvarado.
6. Keone Kela — Felipe Vazquez has pitched in two straight.
7. Kyle Barraclough — The Nationals were off last night, but an appearance today would make three in four for Sean Doolittle.