Closer Monkey

Tag: Arodys Vizcaino

  • If it’s spring, the Rangers must be blowing saves

    April 6, 2017 Texas Rangers — Last season, Sam Dyson gave up 19 earned runs in 73 appearances. In his first two games of this season, he’s almost halfway there (8 ER, 1 IP), with the latest blow a go-ahead grand slam by Francisco Lindor. The Rangers have fired their closer each of the last two Mays, but…

  • Top 15 Middle Relievers for 2017

    Below is a ranking of our top 15 middle relievers, based on their likelihood to get saves this season — not necessarily their skill level. As an example, Pedro Strop is a very good reliever who’s unlikely to get any save chances, because he’s stuck behind Wade Davis and Hector Rondon. So although Strop is a much better pitcher than a number of…

  • 2017 NL East Preview

    March 1, 2017 Atlanta Braves — After a comically horrific start to the 2015 season, Jim Johnson returned to the Braves, where he’s quietly spent the past season and a half regaining his form. His strikeout rate climbed back over the magical one-per-inning mark in 2016, and he ended the year with 20 saves after Arodys…

  • Luke Gregerson pitching again in Houston

    August 31, 2016 Houston Astros — Luke Gregerson is back and got the call in the eighth inning in his second appearance following an extended absence. Gregerson allowed a solo home run, but otherwise protected what became a two-run lead. With Will Harris having pitched the seventh, it appears as if Gregerson is once again the eighth-inning…

  • Papelbon Watch reaches Day Six

    August 19, 2016 Free Agency — There’s still no news on Jonathan Papelbon. The longtime closer has been tied to at least the Red Sox and Cubs, which makes sense given the pitcher’s connection to both clubs. It’s now been more than 24 hours since we were expected to learn his decision, so who knows what’s…