Closer Monkey

Tag: Koji Uehara

  • Weekly Hot Seat Update: June 12, 2015

    A few quick lists this week, comprising all 30 of the top guys in our depth chart: Top three closers at the moment — Zach Britton; David Robertson; Drew Storen These guys have high strikeout rates, low walk rates, and there’s nothing in their advanced stats to suggest trouble ahead. Britton‘s GB% is second among all qualified relievers (69.8%). Knocking…

  • Rafael Soriano signs with Cubs; another save for Carson Smith

    June 10, 2015 Miami Marlins — Mike Dunn pitched the 8th inning ahead of AJ Ramos in a one-run game. Ramos couldn’t hold on to the lead, giving up a two-run walkoff bomb. Ramos has pitched well enough since taking over the closer’s role, but Dunn seems to have worked his way back into the late-inning mix,…

  • Pat Venditte makes his major league debut; Fernando Rodney falls again

    June 6, 2015 Seattle Mariners — When Friday’s game stayed scoreless into the ninth, all-star coach Lloyd McClendon turned to the ultimate offensive catalyst — Fernando Rodney, who gave up the go-ahead home run. Apparently enamored with Rodney’s “man muscles,” the manager has steadfastly refused to consider replacing him with Carson Smith, but after this latest failure, we wouldn’t be surprised…

  • Kenley Jansen had high blood pressure; Kevin Jepsen earns a Tampa save

    June 5, 2015 Los Angeles Dodgers — The mystery surrounding closer Kenley Jansen’s absence has been solved. Jansen, who has a history of heart trouble, felt sick to his stomach during Wednesday’s game and was found to have high blood pressure when checked by a doctor, so he was held out as a precaution while his…

  • Jake McGee back in the mix for Tampa; Carson Smith worth watching

    May 15, 2015 Tampa Bay Rays — Matt Andriese had a rare four-inning save Thursday night against the Yankees, before getting sent down to make room for the returning Jake McGee. Brad Boxberger (2-1, 1.29 ERA, 10 saves in 10 chances, 12.86 K/9) has been excellent in McGee’s absence, so for now, Kevin Cash will play the matchups.…