September 7, 2022
Texas Rangers – With Jonathan Hernandez presumably available after pitching Sunday, the Rangers turned to Jose Leclerc in the ninth inning to protect a one-run lead, which he did for his third save of the year. Leclerc actually has the Rangers’ last two saves, albeit with the last one coming on August 26. Meanwhile, Hernandez was terrible in his last ninth-inning appearance, giving up four runs to blow a save against the Red Sox last Thursday. Leclerc’s save last night bumps him up in this committee, one he may lead if the Rangers continue to avoid using Hernandez, who should definitely be available tonight.
Updated hierarchy: *Hernandez | Leclerc | Moore.
* = closer-by-committee
Arizona Diamondbacks — Ian Kennedy has blown back-to-back save opportunities, including last night against the Padres when he gave up two runs in the ninth. Mark Melancon hasn’t really pushed Kennedy much since the Diamondbacks went to a committee, but we’ll see if he gets the next save chance after Kennedy’s recent struggles.
Hierarchy remains: *Kennedy | Melancon | Mantiply.
* = closer-by-committee
Houston Astros – Ryan Pressly was expected to be activated from the IL on Tuesday, but he still doesn’t feel right, so his return has been postponed. Rafael Montero will continue to close for a few more days until Pressly is ready to go.
Hierarchy remains: Montero | Neris | Abreu.
Cleveland Guardians – As predicted in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch, James Karinchak picked up his first save of the season while Emmanuel Clase rested following three straight days of work.
Hierarchy remains: Clase | Karinchak | Stephan.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today
1. Mark Melancon (ARI) – Ian Kennedy threw 22 pitches last night and may need a breather after another blown save.
2. Cionel Perez (BAL) – Felix Bautista threw 25 pitches in a two-inning save while Dillon Tate had a 30-pitch outing.
3. Luis Garcia (SD) – Nick Martinez has appeared in two straight games, throwing 33 pitches in the process.
4. Carlos Estevez (COL) – Daniel Bard has gone in two of three, including a 23-pitch effort on Tuesday.
5. Wandy Peralta (NYY) – The Yankees play a doubleheader…
6. Jhoan Duran (MIN) – …against the Twins…
7. Adam Ottavino (NYM) – …while the Mets play two…
8. Duane Underwood (PIT) – …against the Pirates.
Tomorrow
1. Giovanny Gallegos (STL) – If Ryan Helsley pitches today that will be two straight and three of four.
2. John Brebbia (SF) – If Camilo Doval pitches Wednesday that will be four of five, but even if he doesn’t, the Giants still play a doubleheader…
3. Taylor Rogers/Brad Boxberger (MIL) – …against the Brewers.