June 23, 2015
Toronto Blue Jays – While the Blue Jays’ bullpen remains unsettled, 20 year-old Roberto Osuna is making a name for himself with his 100 mph fastball. Last night Osuna was called on to get the Jays out of a jam in the 8th, which he did by striking out three Tampa hitters around a walk. He then returned and struck out two more in the 9th for his first save. John Gibbons said after the game that “you can’t say enough about Osuna,” but did not name him the new closer, which leads us to believe that tonight’s game is vital. Osuna is likely unavailable after his 33-pitch outing, so if the Jays get a save opp, and Cecil converts it, he probably hangs on to his job for at least a little while longer. But if he pitches badly, or doesn’t pitch at all, then that opens up the chance for Osuna to seize control of the gig going forward. Steve Delabar, two years removed from an All Star game appearance, also lurks as a candidate, while the Jays continue to be mentioned in talks for Jonathan Papelbon and Francisco Rodriguez.
Hierarchy remains: *Cecil | Osuna | Delabar.
* = closer-by-committee
Chicago Cubs – Joe Maddon, the Lord of the Closer Committee, continues to keep us guessing. Hector Rondon had been emerging as the leader of the pack until last night, when he and Pedro Strop pitched scoreless innings ahead of 33 year-old birthday boy Jason Motte.
Hierarchy remains: *Rondon | Strop | Motte.
* = closer-by-committee
Arizona Diamondbacks – In a somewhat surprising move, Addison Reed was sent to the minors on Sunday. He’ll work on his stuff and could return to a prominent role later this season. Fan favorite David Hernandez moves up to take his place.
Updated hierarchy: Ziegler | Hudson | Hernandez.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. J.J. Hoover, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman is out on paternity leave, so Hoover may get a save chance today.
2. Steve Delabar, Toronto Blue Jays – Brett Cecil hasn’t been publicly removed from the closer role yet, but if John Gibbons is planning on a demotion, then it’ll be Steve Delabar filling in for a recovering Roberto Osuna (33 pitches last night; 65 over the last four games) tonight.
3. Joba Chamberlain, Detroit Tigers – Joakim Soria has pitched in back to back games and has allowed a run in each appearance; he may get the day off.
4. Ken Giles, Philadelphia Phillies – Likewise, Jonathan Papelbon has gone in back to back games and allowed runs in each appearance. The Phillies may give him today off, as they likely don’t want to risk injuring one of their trade candidates.
