Category: Pittsburgh Pirates

  • Scott Downs picks up rare save; Jose Valverde released

    May 27, 2014 New York Mets — They say that if you love something, you should let it go; apparently, the Mets have a thing for mediocre relievers on the high side of 35. On the heels of turning Kyle Farnsworth into Inigo Montoya, New York axed Jose Valverde on Monday for giving up four runs in two-thirds of an inning. Even after his successful spot…

  • Belisario blows save and moves to hot seat

    May 25, 2014 Chicago White Sox — Ronald Belisario blew the save yesterday by allowing three runs in the 9th and now has given up at least 1 run in all three of his save chances.  Manager Robin Ventura never committed to Belisario as closer after Lindstrom’s injury and will likely consider other options after yesterday.  Daniel Webb or Jake…

  • Matt Lindstrom out for three months; Cubs turn to Schlitter

    May 22, 2014 Chicago White Sox — Bad news for Matt Lindstrom Wednesday; the righthander will need surgery on his injured ankle and is unlikely to return before late August. In his absence, Robin Ventura has chosen Ronald Belisario and his speedy sinker as the team’s closer. Hierarchy remains: Belisario | Webb | Petricka. Los Angeles Dodgers — Chris Perez hasn’t…

  • Jeurys Familia ascending; Frieri and Smith swap save opps

    May 15, 2014 New York Mets — As we reported late Wednesday night, Kyle Farnsworth was released by the Mets in a bizarre, cost-cutting move, two days after he picked up a save against the Yankees. Collins promised a closer committee, and we think Jeurys Familia is the best-positioned of that bunch, followed by Jose Valverde. We’ll leave Jenrry Mejia ahead…

  • Jim Johnson on the verge of winning job back; Mark Melancon, Joe Smith to close

    April 26, 2014 Chicago White Sox – Despite four straight scoreless outings, Ronald Belisario still has an ERA over 7, thanks in large part to an April 9th appearance in Colorado where he gave up 5 runs while recording only one out.  But his recent stretch — almost all of which has come pitching ahead…