July 1, 2016
Miami Marlins – The Marlins acquired San Diego closer Fernando Rodney on Thursday, but he did not play against the Braves. Manager Don Mattingly said he will announce his intentions with Rodney on Friday, but we believe he will stick with A.J. Ramos, who has converted 33 straight save opportunities, as his closer.
Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Rodney | Phelps.
San Diego Padres – The cupboard is pretty bare in San Diego after the departure of closer Fernando Rodney, but Ryan Buchter was named the primary set-up man in early June and we suspect he has the best shot to close for the Padres, who have yet to make any official announcement.
Updated hierarchy: Buchter | Villanueva | Quackenbush.
Atlanta Braves – Recent call-up Mauricio Cabrera picked up his first career save for the Braves Thursday night after closer Arodys Vizcaino ran into some trouble in what was originally a non-save situation in the ninth. Vizcaino recorded two quick outs, but followed that by allowing two walks and an RBI single. Interim manager Brian Snitker then turned to Cabrera, who had never even pitched with the lead in his short career (two previous major league games). He was impressive, touching 102 mph on the radar gun in recording the final out. If Vizcaino gets traded, keep an eye on Cabrera.
Hierarchy remains: Vizcaino | Johnson | Cervenka.
Oakland A’s – Lefthanded setup man (and sometimes closer) Sean Doolittle has been placed on the 15-day DL with a shoulder injury. Manager Bob Melvin said the pitcher will be shut down because of “subtle changes” in his labrum. An MRI Thursday showed inflammation in the shoulder. Doolittle, who had been considered a trade candidate, said there’s no specific timetable for when he will resume throwing and added that he was “frustrated.” No kidding. Ryan Dull (2.23 ERA, 0.77 WHIP, 4 holds), who has pitched in wins in his last five appearances, slides into the hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Madson | Axford | Dull.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Bryan Shaw, Cleveland Indians — The red-hot Indians have won 13 games in a row, which has meant a lot of work for closer Cody Allen, who has pitched in three straight. Shaw, meanwhile, has only gone in two straight.
2. Kevin Siegrist/Jonathan Broxton, St. Louis Cardinals — We’re pretty sure Seung Hwan Oh will get the bulk of the save chances moving forward, but it’s still a committee, and Siegrist or Broxton (but definitely not Trevor Rosenthal) could be called upon, too.
