June 15, 2017
Cleveland Indians — Uh, guys, ever since we praised Andrew Miller by comparing him to peak-level Fernando Rodney, his ERA has quintupled, he’s given up two home runs, and he’s lost two straight games. WE DIDN’T MEAN IT, ANDREW!! COME BACK TO US!!
Hierarchy remains: Allen | Miller | Shaw.
San Diego Padres — It’s been nearly three weeks since anyone but Brandon Maurer sniffed a save opportunity for the Padres. We’ll bid farewell to the committee asterisk.
Updated hierarchy: Maurer | Hand | Buchter.
Los Angeles Angels — As we predicted Wednesday morning, David Hernandez picked up the save while Bud Norris got the night off. And all of this happened because Joe Girardi is currently insisting on using rookies instead of effective pitchers.
Hierarchy remains: Norris | Hernandez | Parker.
Detroit Tigers — We told you in Wednesday’s VSW that K-Rod was getting more high-leverage looks, and now Brad Ausmus has confirmed the shift — although the article also reports that the former closer still isn’t pleased with his role. Stay tuned.
Hierarchy remains: J.Wilson | A.Wilson | Greene.
Miami Marlins — After struggling with control (21 BB in his first 22.1 IP), Kyle Barraclough has righted the ship. Wednesday’s clean fifth inning was his fourth straight walkless outing. The Marlins have given Barraclough a recent rest from high-leverage use, but we think his renaissance keeps him ahead of Brad Ziegler and Nick Wittgren in the Miami pen.
Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Phelps | Barraclough.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today:
1. Pedro Baez — Kenley Jansen hasn’t thrown many pitches, but he’s gone in four out of five.
Friday:
1. Jacob Barnes/Carlos Torres — Corey Knebel has pitched in two straight.
