April 9, 2017
Baltimore Orioles – Zach Britton’s ankle is fine, and he was able to record his 52nd straight save in an Orioles’ comeback win on Saturday. Britton will likely get the day off Sunday after appearing in the past two games, but Orioles’ fans and fantasy owners can stop worrying about his ankle for now.
Hierarchy remains: Britton | Brach | O’Day.
Detroit Tigers — Francisco Rodriguez was given the day off on Saturday after the Tigers used him for more than one inning on Friday. Justin Wilson got the call in K-Rod’s absence, and responded with a perfect inning to record the save. Bruce Rondon struggled on Friday, and even though Wilson also pitched on Friday, the Tigers felt more comfortable bringing Wilson back for the save last night. Wilson appears to have moved ahead of Rondon for now, but this situation will likely be fluid for the early part of the season.
Updated hierarchy: Rodriguez | J. Wilson | Rondon.
Los Angeles Angels – Cam Bedrosian struck out four batters in 1.2 innings to pick up his second save of the season. Although manager Mike Scioscia will not follow strict bullpen roles, Bedrosian is clearly the best pitcher in the Angels’ bullpen right now and should see the majority of save chances.
Hierarchy remains: *Bedrosian | Bailey | Parker.
* = closer-by-committee
San Diego Padres — The Padres gave closer Brandon Maurer the night off on Saturday after pitching in the prior two games. Ryan Buchter recorded his first save of the season, and he should continue to see save chances when Maurer is unavailable until Carter Capps is ready to return.
Hierarchy remains: Maurer | Buchter | Hand.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today
1. Darren O’Day, Baltimore Orioles – Zach Britton and Brad Brach have both pitched in two straight, and three of the past four
2. Andrew Bailey, Los Angeles Angels – Cam Bedrosian threw 31 pitches last night in recording a five out save.
3. Juan Nicasio, Pittsburgh Pirates – Tony Watson, Daniel Hudson, and Felipe Rivero have all appeared in two straight and three of the past four.
4. Erasmo Ramirez, Tampa Bay Rays – Alex Colome has pitched in two straight and three of four.
Monday
1. Adam Ottavino, Colorado Rockies – If Greg Holland pitches on Sunday, it will be two straight and three of four, and he would likely get Monday off.
2. Shawn Kelley/Koda Glover, Washington Nationals – If Blake Treinen pitches on Sunday, that will be four games in five days and he would probably not pitch Monday. Shawn Kelley or Koda Glover could be used, depending on who pitches Sunday.
