May 7, 2021
San Francisco Giants – Manager Gabe Kapler has effectively placed the committee asterisk on the Giants bullpen, saying Wednesday that Tyler Rogers will be in the ninth-inning mix more often. We’ll keep Jake McGee at the top for now, but he has had a rough time of late, allowing seven earned runs over his previous three appearances (2.2 IP).
Updated hierarchy: *McGee | Rogers | Doval.
* = closer-by-committee
Boston Red Sox — As the Vulture Save Watch predicted, Matt Barnes was in need of some rest on Thursday, but we didn’t anticipate Adam Ottavino pitching for the third straight day. He did so, however, to pick up his first save with the Red Sox.
Hierarchy remains: Barnes | Ottavino | Andriese.
Texas Rangers – In another near-hit for the Vulture Save Watch, Ian Kennedy was given the day off Thursday. The entire hierarchy joined him in getting some rest, though, leading Josh Sborz to convert his first save. He’s probably third in line behind Kennedy at this point, but we’ll keep an eye on his usage.
Hierarchy remains: Kennedy | Rodriguez | King.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today:
1. Andrew Chafin (CHC) — Even with the Cubs’ off day on Thursday, Craig Kimbrel has pitched in two of three, four of six and five of eight.
2. Hansel Robles (MIN) — Taylor Rogers has pitched in three of four.
3. Jose Cisnero (DET) — Gregory Soto has pitched in two straight.
4. A.J. Minter (ATL) — So has Will Smith.
Saturday:
1. Adam Ottavino/Matt Andriese (BOS) – If he goes Friday, that would be four of six for Matt Barnes.
2. Jake Diekman (OAK) – Same as above for Lou Trivino.
3. Giovanny Gallegos (STL) — The above is also true for Alex Reyes.
4. Ryan Thompson/Pete Fairbanks (TB) – Ditto for Jeffrey Springs.
5. Joely Rodriguez (TEX) – A Friday outing would be five of seven for Ian Kennedy.
