August 23, 2020
St. Louis Cardinals – Giovanny Gallegos relieved Andrew Miller in the 8th inning with two men on and struck out Nick Castellanos to end the threat. Gallegos came back out for a perfect 9th to record his first save of the season. He has made five appearances so far this season and only allowed one hit and no walks. We think this is still a committee for now but we will move Gallegos to the top based on his excellent numbers.
Updated hierarchy: *Gallegos | Miller | Gant.
* = closer-by-committee
Boston Red Sox — The Red Sox got their first save chance after dealing away their closer Brandon Workman and as expected, Matt Barnes got the call. Unfortunately for Red Sox fans and fantasy owners, he could not get the job done. Ryan Brasier pitched 1.1 scoreless innings yesterday and could work his way into the closer conversation if Barnes falters again.
Hierarchy remains: Barnes | Brasier | Weber.
Philadelphia Phillies — We got our first look at the Phillies’ new bullpen yesterday and Hector Neris came out for the 8th with the Phillies up two. Neris struggled as he gave up a walk and two hits before getting pulled for Brandon Workman. Workman immediately allowed a two-run double to give up the lead. After the Phillies tied the game in the top of 9th, Workman came back out for the bottom of the 9th and gave up another run to take the loss. This was not exactly what the Phillies were looking for but they will hope Workman can bounce back in his next outing.
Hierarchy remains: Workman | Neris | Morgan.
Pittsburgh Pirates — Keone Kela is day-to-day and will be re-assessed next week. If the Pirates happen to stumble into a 9th inning lead over the next several days, Richard Rodriguez would likely fill the closer’s role.
Hierarchy remains: *Rodriguez | Stratton | Hartlieb.
* = closer-by-committee
Tampa Bay Rays – Chaz Roe has been placed on the IL with elbow soreness. Jalen Beeks could see more time in the later innings while Roe is out.
Updated hierarchy: *Anderson | Castillo | Beeks.
* = closer-by-committee
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today
1. Blake Treinen – Kenley Jansen has pitched in two straight.
2. Ryan Weber/Austin Brice – Matt Barnes has gone in two straight and three of four. Ryan Brasier has gone in two of three, including a 21 pitch outing yesterday.
3. Nick Vincent – Brandon Kintzler has pitched in two straight and three of four. Brad Boxberger has also pitched in two straight.
4. Joakim Soria – Liam Hendriks got yesterday off but may get another day off after pitching three in a row.
5. Rafael Dolis – Anthony Bass has pitched in two straight
6. Miguel Castro – Cole Sulser threw 33 pitches yesterday
Monday
1. Nate Jones – If Raisel Iglesias pitches on Sunday, it will be three of the last four games.
2. Felix Pena – Ty Buttrey recorded a two-inning save yesterday and will likely get Monday off if he pitches again on Sunday.
3. Tanner Rainey – If Daniel Hudson pitches on Sunday, it will be two straight
