Closer Monkey

Tag: Drew Storen

  • Nationals blow leads in 8th and 9th innings

    April 7, 2017 Washington Nationals – Nationals manager Dusty Baker had to give the dreaded vote of confidence Thursday after his bullpen gave up slim leads in the eighth and ninth innings before losing the game in extras: “I mean, my bullpen — I love my bullpen,” Baker said. “These guys are going to be…

  • 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…

  • Koda Glover on the inside track in Washington

    March 22, 2017 Washington Nationals — Opening Day is just 12 days away, but Dusty Baker claims to have given no thought whatsoever to who will be closing for Washington. With most of the Nats’ big relievers pitching in minor league games, Koda Glover has been getting the bulk of the ninth innings for the big club…

  • 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 Central Preview

    March 1, 2017 Chicago Cubs — The World Series champions replaced one All-Star closer with another, signing Wade Davis to replace Aroldis Chapman. Davis has been one of the best relievers in the league recently, and should see a lot of save chances for an excellent Cubs team. Hector Rondon will likely be the first option…