July 2, 2019
Boston Red Sox – The Red Sox, desperate for bullpen help, are reportedly on the verge of naming Nate Eovaldi as their closer when he returns from the IL. Eovaldi, who will likely be ready to return later this month, certainly has the stuff to close, though he has expressed his distaste for relieving in the past. In the interim, Boston also called up their best AAA reliever, sidearmer Trevor Kelley, who might find himself in high-leverage spots soon.
Hierarchy remains: *Barnes | Workman | Brasier.
* = closer-by-committee
Atlanta Braves – Monday was a welcome day off for a tired Braves bullpen, which recently lost Anthony Swarzak to inflammation in his pitching shoulder. Look for Jacob Webb to become the new 7th inning man ahead of AJ Minter and Luke Jackson.
Updated hierarchy: Jackson | Minter | Webb.
Milwaukee Brewers – The plan was probably to have Josh Hader pitch the final two innings of the game on Monday, but after Hader struggled in the 8th, the Brewers turned to Jeremy Jeffress for the 9th. Jeffress allowed a run but managed to close the door for his first save of the season.
Hierarchy remains: Hader | Jeffress | Guerra.
Tampa Bay Rays – Jose Alvarado converted his first save since returning from a lengthy personal absence. We’ll bump him to the top of the committee with the understanding that Emilio Pagan may still get save chances when matchups are right.
Updated hierarchy: *Alvarado | Pagan | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today
1. Junior Guerra – Josh Hader (4 IP over last 5 days), and Jeremy Jeffress (back to back and three of four) might both get the day off.
Tomorrow
1. Pedro Strop – If Craig Kimbrel goes today, it’ll be back to back games, and we doubt they’d use him three straight this soon after being activated.
