August 18, 2016
Exile — Just when you thought you were safe from the DL DC Strangler, the Red Sox look like they’re ready to bring him home. John Farrell evidently called him. David Ortiz wants to give him a hug. GM Mike Hazen was good for a backhanded compliment on the radio (“a little crazy goes a long way”). Although the Cubs are also in the mix, the Red Sox have the bigger need and valuable years of experience handling Papelbon’s, uh, quirks. If he does sign with Boston, Papelbon is likely to share the set-up role with Brad Ziegler.
Colorado Rockies — We knew Adam Ottavino was likely to get a night off, but it was a bit surprising to see Scott Oberg earn the save. It’s been a revolving door in front of Ottavino, with Oberg, Jake McGee, and Carlos Estevez each pitching an eighth inning in front of the closer this past week. Oberg’s numbers aren’t great — and he gave up a home run on Wednesday night — but we’ve got to put him somewhere. Just know that we don’t recommend anyone in this pen past Ottavino.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Oberg | Logan.
Chicago Cubs — Joe Smith went to the DL Wednesday with a strained hamstring. C.J. Edwards had one terrible outing last Friday, but we still give him the edge over Justin Grimm and Travis Wood.
Updated hierarchy: Chapman | Rondon | Edwards.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Andrew Miller, Cleveland Indians — Cody Allen has pitched on four of the last five days, including a bubblicious blown save on Wednesday night.
2. Raisel Iglesias, Cincinnati Reds — Tony Cingrani has gone in two straight and three of four.
