September 7, 2014
Washington Nationals – Rafael Soriano will be temporarily removed from the closer role and given a few days off to try and fix his mechanics. The Nats will go with a committee approach for now, most likely giving the first crack to Tyler Clippard, who could take the job and run with it if he converts his first couple of chances. Drew Storen is also a possibility.
Updated hierarchy: Clippard | Storen | Soriano.
Oakland A’s — Sean Doolittle threw a bullpen session yesterday and said he felt good throwing all his pitches. He is eligible to come off the DL Monday but will likely need a few more days before he returns.
Hierarchy remains: O’Flaherty | Cook | Gregerson.
Pittsburgh Pirates – Rookie John Holdzkom recorded a save yesterday, as the Pirates won the continuation of their suspended game on Friday. Holdzkom, a 6-foot-9 right handed-reliever with an interesting back story, has been a pleasant surprise for the Pirates since getting called up, but he will not normally factor into the Pirates’ late inning plans at this point.
Hierarchy remains: Melancon | Watson | Hughes.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Kevin Jepsen, Los Angeles Angels – Huston Street and Joe Smith have both pitched three days in a row.
2. Brian Wilson/Brandon League, Los Angeles Dodgers – Kenley Jansen has pitched in two straight and four of the last five. Wilson has also pitched in two straight but has only thrown 14 pitches in those 2 outings.
3. Joel Peralta, Tampa Bay Rays – Jake McGee and Brad Boxberger have both appeared in three straight games.