July 5, 2015
Los Angeles Dodgers — J.P. Howell recorded his first save since 2011 last night, as Kenley Jansen was given the night off after pitching in three of the last four days. Pedro Baez got the last out of the 8th and stayed on to get the first two outs of the 9th, before Howell came on to strike out the only batter he faced. If Baez had been able to pitch a cleaner 9th inning he would have gotten the save, and since Yimi Garcia was used for one out in the 8th, it looks like Baez could be the go-to righty on days when Jansen is not available.
Updated hierarchy: Jansen | Baez | Garcia.
Pittsburgh Pirates — Remember all the concern over Mark Melancon back in April when his velocity was down? Well there isn’t any reason for concern now as Melancon recorded his 26th save yesterday, and hasn’t given up any earned runs in last 25 appearances. Jared Hughes wasn’t needed on Saturday so instead he got to celebrate being the only active player born on the 4th of July with a day off.
Hierarchy remains: Melancon | Watson | Hughes.
Toronto Blue Jays — Steve Delabar had another rough outing on Saturday, giving up 2 runs while only recording 1 out. Brett Cecil, on the other hand, now has five scoreless appearances since being demoted from the closer’s role. The Blue Jays bullpen is still unsettled at this point but with Delabar struggling, Roberto Osuna could have a chance to solidify himself as the closer.
Updated hierarchy: *Osuna | Delabar | Cecil.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Justin Wilson, New York Yankees – Dellin Betances has pitched in two straight, and three of the last four.
2. Kevin Siegrist, St. Louis Cardinals – Trevor Rosenthal has appeared in three games in a row.
3. Jake McGee, Tampa Bay Rays – Brad Boxberger took the loss yesterday and has pitched in three straight.
