Closer Monkey

Tag: Wilton Lopez

  • Vinnie Pestano moved out of setup role; Matt Thornton facing extra pressure?

    July 9, 2013 Cleveland Indians — Vinnie Pestano’s failure to thrive after returning from an elbow injury has finally resulted in his demotion from the 8th inning role. Terry Francona says that Joe Smith will take over setup duties, with Cody Allen filling in when necessary — although the goal is to rehabilitate Pestano to his 2012 form. Hierarchy…

  • Steve Cishek blows another save; Rex Brothers strengthens his hold

    June 5, 2013 Cincinnati Reds — Although Sam LeCure gave up a two-run homer that gave the Rockies the lead, the blast broke a 10-game, 9.2-inning streak in which he had allowed no runs and only one hit. LeCure is still a strong third option in the Reds bullpen. Hierarchy change: Sam LeCure to 2nd in line,…

  • Luke Gregerson and Rex Brothers move into 9th inning roles; Tom Wilhelmsen struggling

    June 2, 2013 Seattle Mariners – Tom Wilhelmsen blew his third save in four chances on Sunday, walking the bases loaded and then allowing a walk-off triple.  Eric Wedge didn’t say anything ominous about Wilhelmsen’s job security after the game, saying that closers go through rough spots throughout the season, but should Wilhelmsen blow another save…

  • Rafael Betancourt injured, Rex Brothers to close

    June 1, 2013 Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt has been placed on the disabled list with the same groin injury that has been nagging him over the past two weeks.  Rex Brothers will close in his absence.  Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to Closer, Wilton Lopez to Set-up, Matt Belisle to 2nd in line, Rafael Betancourt to…

  • Rafael Betancourt ailing; Rex Brothers and Wilton Lopez ready to go

    May 22, 2013 Colorado Rockies — Rafael Betancourt left Tuesday night’s game with what the team immediately described as a “tight right groin” — no real surprise given its recent workload. Betancourt was initially listed as day-to-day, but if Wednesday’s MRI leads to a DL stint, it’s likely that Rex Brothers will take over the closer role. Wilton Lopez is another option if…