July 3, 2017
Texas Rangers — With Alex Claudio unavailable, it was Ernesto Frieri and Matt Bush for the Rangers in the sixth and seventh of a one-run game. When Jeff Banister turned to Jose Leclerc in the eighth, however, he gave up the go-ahead home run, robbing Keone Kela of his first chance to truly seize the job. In other relief news, Texas acquired Jason Grilli and welcomed Tony Barnette back from the disabled list. Neither should challenge Kela.
Hierarchy remains: *Kela | Leclerc | Claudio.
* = closer-by-committee
Chicago White Sox — David Robertson — currently ranked #20 in Jon Heyman’s assessment of trade chips — will be off the next three days welcoming his second child. Tommy Kahnle should get any save chances against Oakland.
Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Kahnle | Swarzak.
Atlanta Braves — The Braves took their first shot at an extra-inning save with closer Jim Johnson, but he gave up the tying run. Next inning it was Arodys Vizcaino’s turn, and he converted, for his second save of the season.
Hierarchy remains: Johnson | Vizcaino | Ramirez.
Boston Red Sox — Today in three-inning saves, we have Fernando Abad and his 63 MPH changeup. Maybe you could have been a major leaguer after all.
Hierarchy remains: Kimbrel | Kelly | Barnes.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today:
1. Tommy Kahnle — As noted, David Robertson will be out for the next series.
2. Joakim Soria — Kelvin Herrera has gone in two straight (55 pitches). Soria pitched in the same games, but threw less.
Tuesday:
1. Tommy Kahnle/Anthony Swarzak — If he pitches Monday, Kahnle will have gone in two straight.
2. Sean Doolittle — Santiago Casilla has appeared in two games in a row.
