Closer Monkey

Category: Pittsburgh Pirates

  • Axford and Henderson “co-closers” in Milwaukee as K-Rod heads to Baltimore

    July 24, 2013 Milwaukee Brewers — As we feared, now that K-Rod is gone, Ron Roenicke told reporters before Tuesday’s game that Jim Henderson and John Axford will likely “flip-flop” future save opportunities. What can we say? The man loves him some drama. Note that Henderson pitched the ninth on Tuesday with the team down by four. Hierarchy change: Jim Henderson to…

  • Mark Melancon to close while Jason Grilli is out; Charlie Furbush ascending

    July 23, 2013 Pittsburgh Pirates – The Pirates have not released much on the injury to Jason Grilli, who will be re-evaluated today.  The official word thus far is “right forearm tightness,” which is often an ominous precursor to Tommy John surgery.  Vin Mazzaro picked up his first career save on Monday, getting the last…

  • Jason Grilli injures pitching arm during save chance

    July 22, 2013 Pittsburgh Pirates – After his 24th pitch of the night, Jason Grilli winced, grabbed his arm, and beckoned for the trainers.  If it’s serious, and observers are speculating that it is, then Mark Melancon will take over as Pirates closer for the foreseeable future.  Hierarchy change: Mark Melancon to Closer, Justin Wilson…

  • Chris Perez returns; Astros giving Jose Cisnero a bigger role

    June 27, 2013 Pittsburgh Pirates – After a taxing outing on Sunday, Jason Grilli has gotten a few days off.  On Wednesday, Mark Melancon pitched the 9th inning in his stead.  So far, there’s no indication that this is anything serious.  No hierarchy change. . Closer . Set-Up . 2nd in line . 2014 Closer…

  • Rafael Betancourt out with a tight groin; Brothers and Lopez await

    May 22, 2013 Colorado Rockies — Rafael Betancourt left Tuesday night’s game with what the team immediately described as a “tight right groin” — no real surprise given its recent workload. Betancourt was initially listed as day-to-day, but if Wednesday’s MRI leads to a DL stint, it’s likely that Rex Brothers will take over the closer role. Wilton Lopez is another option if…