June 19, 2018
Washington Nationals — Kelvin Herrera joins a stacked Nationals bullpen. Sean Doolittle has pitched well in the closer’s role, so Herrera will fit into a setup role, with save chances going to him when Doolittle is unavailable.
Updated hierarchy: Doolittle | Herrera | Madson.
Kansas City Royals — After trading closer Kelvin Herrera to the Nationals, the Royals did not have a late lead in their game Monday, instead losing for the 13th time in 14 games. So we’re nowhere closer to knowing who may lead the team’s hierarchy. It’s probably a committee to start, but in a sea of bleh, we like Kevin McCarthy to get the first save chance. Brandon Maurer may also factor in, too.
Updated hierarchy: *McCarthy | Maurer | Hill.
* = closer-by-committee
Arizona Diamondbacks — Archie Bradley nailed down his third save Monday night, but you knew that would happen already, thanks to the Vulture Save Watch.
Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | Bradley | Hirano.
Seattle Mariners — Juan Nicasio has been activated from the disabled list and should resume his role as an option in the seventh or eighth innings ahead of Edwin Diaz.
Updated hierarchy: Diaz | Colome | Nicasio.
Philadelphia Phillies — Hector Neris, who actually picked up a save last Saturday and had an outside chance to grab the closer’s role again, has been demoted to Triple-A. Neris allowed four runs in his last outing and manager Gabe Kapler wants him to “clear his head.”
Hierarchy remains: *Dominguez | Ramos | Hunter.
* = closer-by-committee
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today:
1. Dellin Betances — Aroldis Chapman has pitched in three of five and four of seven — essentially every other day over the past week.
Wednesday:
1. Jordan Hicks — Entering Tuesday, Bud Norris has pitched in two straight games.
2. Chaz Roe/Jose Alvarado — Sergio Romo has pitched in two straight, and who knows, he may start again this week.
3. Jake Diekman — Keone Kela has pitched in two of three.
4. Dan Winkler — Arodys Vizcaino too (and four of six).
5. Mark Melancon –Tony Watson and Hunter Strickland have pitched in two straight.
