Tag: Jim Johnson

  • 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…

  • Zach Britton makes history; Arodys Vizcaino back soon

    August 12, 2016 Baltimore Orioles – Zach Britton on Thursday picked up his 35th straight save this season, pitching a scoreless ninth. Scoreless has been a bit of a theme for Britton lately, as the closer hasn’t allowed an earned run in 39 straight appearances, the longest streak since earned runs started being kept as…

  • Closer changes aplenty highlight tumultuous Tuesday

    August 10, 2016 Miami Marlins – A.J. Ramos was placed on the disabled list Tuesday, and later that night Fernando Rodney picked up the save. One name to keep an eye on is Brian Ellington, who picked up his first hold of the season and lowered his ERA to 0.61. He may see more high-leverage…

  • Pirates, Nationals, and Braves deep in trade deadline drama

    July 30, 2016 Pittsburgh Pirates — The Pirates are fielding offers from the Nationals, Indians, and Giants for closer Mark Melancon. Although Pittsburgh is in the playoff hunt and Melancon has been one of the most effective closers in the game, the team may be looking to improve other areas of its roster while trusting some combination of…

  • Wade Davis and Kevin Siegrist return; Arodys Vizcaino down with injury

    July 16, 2016 Atlanta Braves — In an attempt to shake off nine days of rust, Brian Snitker called on Arodys Vizcaino in the ninth with the Braves down five. The move backfired terribly when Vizcaino exited after three pitches with what appeared to be a right oblique injury. After the game, Snitker announced that Vizcaino…