July 15, 2023
Toronto Blue Jays — Jordan Romano was removed from the All Star Game after only 5 pitches, but he threw a side session yesterday, and is reportedly doing much better than expected. Romano may still get a couple days off here, but it seems that he dodged a possible IL stint, which is great news for the Blue Jays who are in the middle of the playoff hunt.
Hierarchy remains: Romano | Swanson | Mayza.
Atlanta Braves – The Braves received some bad news heading into the second half of the season when Nick Anderson was placed on the IL with a shoulder strain. Anderson had been one of the most effective relievers for the Braves, so this is major blow for the best team in baseball. AJ Minter is also dealing with a pectoral injury, although his doesn’t seem to be serious. In the short term, we expect Kirby Yates to be the first option to step into the later innings, and if Minter is also going to miss some time look for Joe Jiminez and Collin McHugh to get some higher leverage spots as well. Longer term Atlanta will likely be shopping for bullpen help at the trade deadline as the rest of the roster is stacked and primed for another world series run.
Updated hierarchy: Iglesias | Minter | Yates.
Vulture Save Watch:
- Jason Foley (DET) — Alex Lange threw 29 pitches yesterday, and may get a night off.
- Kyle Finnegan (WAS) — The Nationals have a pseudo double-header…
- Giovanny Gallegos (STL) — …against the Cardinals
- Nick Martinez (SD) — The Padres have a double-header…
- Gregory Soto (PHI) — …against the Phillies.
- Jason Adam (TB) — The Rays have a double-header…
- Taylor Clarke (KC) — against the Royals.
For Sunday:
- Daniel Bard (COL) — Justin Lawrence threw 21 pitches last night, so another long outing could earn him the night off.