Trevor May, Hansel Robles pick up saves

September 29, 2018

New York Mets — We alerted you yesterday that Robert Gsellman and Seth Lugo, the top two arms in the Mets bullpen, will not pitch this weekend. That leaves the door open for an Anthony Swarzak save chance or two. Grab him and/or Jerry Blevins if you’re still scrapping for saves.

Updated hierarchy: Swarzak | Blevins | Rhame.

Minnesota Twins – Holding a one-run lead, the Twins used Taylor Rogers in the 8th and Trevor May to get the last two outs of the first game in a doubleheader. May struck out both batters he faced to earn his second career save. This is also May’s second save in a row for the Twins, as normal closer Trevor Hildenberger hasn’t pitched since giving up four runs this past Wednesday. We told you Wednesday that Paul Molitor said he was going to try different guys in different roles this week, and he looks like he’s keeping that promise.

Hierarchy remains: *Hildenberger | Rogers | May.
* = closer-by-committee

Los Angeles Angels — After watching their eight-run lead whittled down to three, the Angels turned to Hansel Robles to close out Friday’s win. Robles has saves in consecutive appearances, while Jim Johnson picked up the other save for the Angels this week. This is certainly a committee, but it is curious to see Blake Parker in a set up role after being effective as a closer earlier in the season. That having been said, Parker is well rested, having not pitched in the last three days, so expect him to get some work this weekend.

Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Robles | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee

VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today:
1. AJ Minter – Both Arodys Vizcaino and Chad Sobotka threw over 20 pitches last night, and with the Braves out of the playoff picture they may not push any pitcher. Minter hasn’t pitched since Wednesday.
2. Steven Wright – Boston has already locked up the best record in the AL and may choose to let closer Craig Kimbrel rest this weekend, especially because the Yankees have nothing to play for as well and they can no longer stick it to their rivals. .
3. Jared Hughes – Raisel Iglesias threw 21 pitches last night, and with the Reds out of the playoffs, they will likely keep a close eye on their closer.
4. Hector Rondon – Roberto Osuna threw 20 pitches last night, and the Astros may rest him heading into the playoffs.

Sunday:
1. Seung Hwan Oh – Wade Davis and Adam Ottavino have both pitched in back-to-back games, but it is all hands on deck with the Rockies fighting to secure the NL West. If they lock up the division today, expect them to rest these guys, leaving Oh as the best rested option.
2. Corey Knebel – Today would be back-to-back for Jeremy Jeffress and Josh Hader.
3. Fernando Rodney/Jeurys Familia – The Athletics have locked in their playoff position, so they may be resting their top arms this weekend.
4. Craig Stammen/Matt Strahm – Today would be back-to-back and three of four for Kirby Yates
5. Jose Alvarado/Chaz Roe – Same for Sergio Romo.
6. Tyler Clippard – And both Ken Giles and Ryan Tepera.