August 26, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels’ struggling bullpen took another blow on Sunday, as Kevin Jepsen underwent appendix surgery and will likely miss the rest of the season. Michael Kohn, who picked up his 6th hold of the season on Saturday, should see more high-leverage innings in Jepsen’s absence. Hierarchy change: Michael Kohn to 2nd in line, replacing Kevin Jepsen.
| . | Closer | . | Set-Up | . | 2nd in line | . | 2014 Closer | . | Updated | |
| LAA | Ernesto Frieri | Dane de la Rosa | Michael Kohn | Ernesto Frieri | 8/26/13 |
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Houston Astros – After picking up the save on Saturday, Chia-Jen Lo was summoned in the 9th inning on Sunday, ready to tighten his grip on the Houston closer role. However, Lo had an absolutely miserable outing, as the first four hitters he faced reached base, including three by walk. After walking in the game-tying run, Lo faced one more hitter, then was yanked, and eventually was saddled with the loss, as the Astros continue to look for someone to seize hold of the closer role. No hierarchy change.
| . | Closer | . | Set-Up | . | 2nd in line | . | 2014 Closer | . | Updated | |
| HOU | Josh Fields | Chia-Jen Lo | Kevin Chapman | Josh Fields | 8/26/13 |
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Arizona Diamondbacks – J.J. Putz hit the disabled list again yesterday, which means — sorry, D-Backs fans — more high-leverage innings for Heath Bell. Hierarchy change: Heath Bell to Set-up, Joe Thatcher to 2nd in line.
| . | Closer | . | Set-Up | . | 2nd in line | . | 2014 Closer | . | Updated | |
| ARI | Brad Ziegler | Heath Bell | Joe Thatcher | J.J. Putz | 8/26/13 | |||||
| J.J. Putz (DL) |
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VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Chia-Jen Lo, Houston Astros – Josh Fields has pitched in three straight, so Lo will likely get the save chance tonight.
2. Pedro Strop, Chicago Cubs – Kevin Gregg has pitched in back to back games and three of the past four.
