Closer Monkey

Tag: Travis Blackley

  • Jim Johnson is back on the Hot Seat

    August 15, 2013 Baltimore Orioles — Jim Johnson blew his third straight save and ninth of the year on Wednesday. Even before the game, the Baltimore Sun was asking its readers whether Johnson should be demoted, with 92% saying yes at the time of this report. Although Buck Showalter insists that he “can’t live in that world,” won’t…

  • Ernesto Frieri is getting worse; a parting gift from Kevin Gregg

    July 31, 2013 Los Angeles Angels — In a wild game characterized by awful relief by both teams, Ernesto Frieri blew another save. Frieri has retired only 6 of the last 20 batters he’s faced, and although Dane de la Rosa and Kevin Jepsen were even worse last night, Frieri’s seat is getting hot enough for Mike Scioscia to…

  • Jose Veras traded; Jose Cisnero best bet to close in Houston

    July 29, 2013 Houston Astros – Jose Veras has been traded to the Detroit Tigers. Jose Cisnero is the best bet to close in his absence.  Hierarchy change: Jose Cisnero to Closer, Travis Blackley to Set-up, Hector Ambriz to 2nd in line. . Closer . Set-Up . 2nd in line . 2014 Closer . Updated…

  • 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…

  • Joaquin Benoit “will be an option” in the 9th inning going forward

    June 17, 2013 Detroit Tigers – Joaquin Benoit got the last out of the 8th inning on Sunday, then stayed on for the 9th to earn his fourth save of the year.  After the game, Jim Leyland said that Benoit “will be an option,” though he stopped well short of naming Benoit the new closer,…