Closer Monkey

Category: Cleveland Guardians

  • Bryan Shaw moving up in Cleveland, and welcome back, Brian Wilson!

    August 20, 2013 Cleveland Indians — Bryan Shaw finished the seventh to pick up his ninth hold of the year, and third in his last eight appearances. Cody Allen, on the other hand, has only one hold in his last 16 games. Hierarchy change: Bryan Shaw to 2nd in line, replacing Cody Allen. . Closer . Set-Up…

  • Jim Johnson is back on the Hot Seat

    August 15, 2013 Baltimore Orioles — Jim Johnson blew his third straight save and ninth of the year on Wednesday. Even before the game, the Baltimore Sun was asking its readers whether Johnson should be demoted, with 92% saying yes at the time of this report. Although Buck Showalter insists that he “can’t live in that world,” won’t…

  • Steve Delabar hits DL; Kintzler, Smith seeing bigger innings

    August 5, 2013 Milwaukee Brewers – Just a week ago, John Axford was being mentioned by Ron Roenicke as a possible part-time closer, but after a dominant stretch, the beleaguered righty has now given up 6 runs in his last 3.1 innings.  He’s been dropped back to middle inning duty, while Brandon Kintzler and Mike…

  • Ernesto Frieri is getting worse; a parting gift from Kevin Gregg

    July 31, 2013 Los Angeles Angels — In a wild game characterized by awful relief by both teams, Ernesto Frieri blew another save. Frieri has retired only 6 of the last 20 batters he’s faced, and although Dane de la Rosa and Kevin Jepsen were even worse last night, Frieri’s seat is getting hot enough for Mike Scioscia to…

  • Grab Bastardo while you can; Casilla struggles in high-A rehab

    July 10, 2013 Philadelphia Phillies — As predicted in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch, Antonio Bastardo earned his second save of the year on Tuesday, allowing Jonathan Papelbon some much-needed rest. With Mike Adams now on the long-term disabled list and Papelbon possibly moving to Detroit or Boston, Bastardo’s value could soon increase dramatically. No hierarchy change. . Closer . Set-Up . 2nd…