Wade Davis hits DL; Alex Colome returns

July 6, 2016

Kansas City Royals — Wade Davis hit the DL on Tuesday with a right forearm strain. Manager Ned Yost refused to commit to a replacement, saying he will “mix and match” depending on who is available. Kelvin Herrera is the best choice to take over Davis’ role, but Joakim Soria has closer experience and Yost’s trust, so we’ll put Soria at the top of the committee for now.

Updated hierarchy: *Soria | Herrera | Hochevar.
* = closer-by-committee

Tampa Bay Rays — Alex Colome was activated from the DL Tuesday and pitched in a losing effort, his first work since June 18. The All-Star will resume his role as the Rays’ closer going forward.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Cedeno | Ramirez.

Milwaukee Brewers — The mystery of Tyler Thornburg’s absence was solved Tuesday, as it was revealed that the 10-day period of rest was merely circumstantial. Thornburg appeared on Tuesday, allowing just one hit in the eighth inning of a 5-2 win. Will Smith pitched in the biggest spot of the game, however, striking out Bryce Harper with the bases loaded to end the seventh. We’ll switch Thornburg back to his spot behind Jeremy Jeffress, but don’t be surprised if Smith sees some of the eighth as well, especially if a lefty comes to the plate.

Updated hierarchy: Jeffress | Thornburg | Smith.

Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino officially made his return from Tommy John surgery on Tuesday in his first appearance since April 25, 2015. He struck out the only batter he faced in a 7-3 victory. Ottavino is expected to ease back into game action, but manager Walt Weiss said it won’t be long before the righty is pitching in high-leverage situations.

Updated hierarchy: Estevez | McGee | Ottavino.

Minnesota Twins — Trevor May returned from the DL Tuesday and pitched the seventh in a blowout win. Manager Paul Molitor said he will ease May back into things, which means Ryan Pressly shouldn’t lose his seventh-inning role right away. We’ll keep an eye on May’s progress as he eventually works his way back into the hierarchy, though the Twins are still open to May becoming a starter.

Hierarchy remains: *Kintzler | Abad | Pressly.
* = closer-by-committee

VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Luke Gregerson, Houston Astros – Will Harris has pitched in three straight games.
2. Tyler Thornburg/Will Smith, Milwaukee Brewers – Jeremy Jeffress has appeared in each of the last three games, and Craig Counsell could play matchups in the ninth given Smith’s success against lefties.