Category: houston astros

  • Keep an eye on Josh James in 2020 and beyond

    September 3, 2019 Houston Astros – After a Roberto Osuna blown save in the 9th, the Astros retook the lead in the 10th, allowing Josh James to pick up his first career save. James has struggled with his control at times, but has electrifying stuff (14.27 K/9 in 52.1 IP this season) and is a…

  • Marlins could have a new closer in September

    August 25, 2019 Miami Marlins – The Marlins, who haven’t recorded a save since July 24th, could have a new closer in September.  Their opening day starter Jose Urena will likely be used as closer when he returns from the IL.   Urena throws hard and could do well in the closer’s role, but don’t expect…

  • Astros lose their best reliever for the rest of the regular season

    August 23, 2019 Houston Astros — Righty Ryan Pressly is out for the next four to six weeks after arthroscopic knee surgery. Joe Biagini took his place, but ran into trouble while pitching the ninth with a six-run cushion, so Roberto Osuna, who’s been busy lately, tossed seven pitches to secure the save. Will Harris…

  • Mark Melancon is the new Braves closer, for now

    August 10, 2019 Atlanta Braves – The Braves sought to bolster their bullpen at the trade deadline, bringing in Chris Martin, Shane Greene and Mark Melancon to cover for a struggling Luke Jackson. In the past 10 days, Melancon has yet to give up a run in four appearances, including a clean ninth inning last…

  • Around the league after a busy trade deadline for bullpen moves

    August 1, 2019 Atlanta Braves — The Braves have watched Luke Jackson struggle over the last three weeks (13.50 ERA, 2.50 WHIP), and they responded at the trade deadline by acquiring 248 career saves through Shane Greene and Mark Melancon. Add those guys to the mellifluous Chris Martin and you have a situation where yesterday’s…