March 31, 2016
New York Yankees — Yankees closer-for-the-first-30-games Andrew Miller was drilled in the right wrist with a line drive and exited the game after throwing just one pitch. A CT scan revealed a chip fracture on Miller’s non-throwing hand, and he will see a specialist to determine what to do next. Dellin Betances will close if Miller is not ready for the start of the season. Also, youngster Bryan Mitchell, who has been impressive this spring, injured his toe and will need an MRI.
Hierarchy remains: Miller | Betances | Shreve.
Philadelphia Phillies — The Phillies bullpen is beginning to take shape after a few cuts, but manager Pete Mackanin is still not ready to declare a closer. He did say, however, that David Hernandez and Dalier Hinojosa are the top candidates at this point. Andrew Bailey is fighting for one of the last remaining spots in the bullpen. For now we will put Hernandez back at the top of the hierarchy, but this is a situation that we will continue to monitor.
Updated hierarchy: *Hernandez | Hinojosa | Bailey.
* = closer-by-committee
Houston Astros — Luke Gregerson had an impressive spring training debut, as he struck out the side on nine pitches. Manager AJ Hinch has said he could mix and match with his bullpen and that even if he does name a closer, he won’t be afraid to use that guy before the ninth inning if necessary. We still like Ken Giles to get the majority of save opportunities, but Gregerson could see some chances — and Giles may be on a shorter leash if he is declared the closer.
Hierarchy remains: Giles | Gregerson | Neshek.
Colorado Rockies – Jason Motte, who was in contention to close for the Rockies, will likely start the season on the disabled list. Jake McGee should still get the first shot at closing games, but Miguel Castro and Chad Qualls are also options.
Updated hierarchy: McGee | Castro | Qualls.