August 24, 2018
Philadelphia Phillies — All of a sudden, Pat Neshek has racked up four saves, including one Thursday against the Nationals with a clean ninth inning. He should continue to compete for opportunities in the weeks ahead with Seranthony Dominguez, who has allowed five earned runs in his last seven appearances.
Updated hierarchy: *Dominguez | Neshek | Arano.
* = closer-by-committee
Milwaukee Brewers — Earlier this week, manager Craig Counsell said the team was “searching for answers” with how to deal with former all-star closer Corey Knebel, who entered Thursday having allowed runs in five of his last seven appearances. We have our answer now, and it shocked many in Milwaukee after Knebel was demoted to Triple-A. The Brewers are fighting for a playoff spot and have a deep bullpen, so they can afford to make moves like this to help all parties involved. A certain former houseguest seems to approve of the move.
Hierarchy remains: *Hader | Jeffress | Burnes.
* = closer-by-committee
Minnesota Twins — Trevor Hildenberger and his 4.55 ERA showed that he’s still the arm to own for the Twins. He collected his fourth save Thursday, allowing a run in an inning of work. There’s still some uncertainty with this situation and we’d love to see a string of cleaner saves before kicking the asterisk.
Hierarchy remains: *Hildenberger | May | Rogers.
* = closer-by-committee
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today:
1. Chaz Roe — Jose Alvarado and Sergio Romo have pitched in four of the last five, with Romo having made an appearance in each of the last three days.
Saturday:
1. Craig Stammen/Matt Strahm — Kirby Yates and Stammen have each pitched in two of three and three of five.
2. Cody Allen — Brad Hand didn’t pitch Thursday, but he has still appeared in three of five.
