June 2, 2014
Toronto Blue Jays – Up by four runs in the 9th inning, the Blue Jays went to Aaron Loup, who pitched a clean inning to close the game out. Loup’s role has been difficult to define for much of the past season and a half — at various times, he’s been everything from the long man to the backup closer. But over the past few weeks, the Jays have been using him more often as a 1-inning guy, and have been going to him in some key late inning spots. Expect him to split the 8th inning with fellow lefty Brett Cecil going forward.
Updated hierarchy: Janssen | Cecil | Loup.
Atlanta Braves – With both Craig Kimbrel and David Carpenter unavailable, the Braves went to rookie Shae Simmons in the 9th inning. Simmons, who was just called up two days ago (much to his own surprise), allowed three base runners but nailed down his first career save.
Hierarchy remains: Kimbrel | Carpenter | Varvaro.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Antonio Bastardo, Philadelphia Phillies – Jonathan Papelbon has pitched in three straight.
2. Adam Warren, New York Yankees – David Robertson has pitched in back to back games, throwing 54 pitches.
3. Mark Melancon, Pittsburgh Pirates – Jason Grilli has pitched in three of four and four of six, throwing 74 pitches in that span. Given his recent return, Mark Melancon might get the save opp tonight.
