June 11, 2021
Cincinnati Reds — Even though he hasn’t pitched since Sunday, Tejay Antone was unavailable Thursday against the Brewers, according to manager David Bell. Bell didn’t give a reason except to say he’d wait until Friday to give an update. We’ll keep an eye on this today, but you should already have Lucas Sims, who might see a larger share of the save chances if Antone misses time or moves to the rotation.
Hierarchy remains: *Sims | Antone | Hembree.
* = closer-by-committee
New York Yankees – Aroldis Chapman didn’t allow his first run of the season until May 23 and entered action on Thursday with a 0.39 ERA, so some regression was coming. It came in bunches Thursday night, as Chapman allowed four runs – including two home runs that traveled at least 430 feet – on just nine pitches to take his first loss. Notably, Chapman’s spin rates and velocity were down in this appearance. Chapman has a long, long track record. He’ll be fine. Meanwhile, Zack Britton could be back soon.
Hierarchy remains: Chapman | Green | Loaisiga.
Los Angeles Dodgers — Thursday’s Dodgers-Pirates game was shortened by rain, allowing Phil Bickford to earn the vulturiest of saves with a scoreless seventh inning.
Hierarchy remains: Jansen | Treinen | Kelly.
Oakland A’s — Trevor Rosenthal is “rapidly progressing” in his rehabilitation but isn’t expected back until August. If you have any free IL spots, he could be worth a speculative add soon, but it’s unclear if he’d reclaim the closer’s role upon his return.
Hierarchy remains: *Trivino | Diekman | Petit.
* = closer-by-committee
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today:
1. Aaron Bummer (CHW) — Liam Hendriks has pitched in three of five.
Saturday:
1. Chris Martin (ATL) — If Will Smith goes Friday that will be five of seven for him.
2. Daniel Hudson (WAS) — There’s a doubleheader on Saturday featuring the Nationals…
3. Jake McGee (SF) — …and the Giants.
4. Jake Diekman (OAK) — A Friday appearance would be three of four for Lou Trivino.
5. Gregory Soto (DET) — The same is true of Jose Cisnero…
6. Blake Treinen (LAD) — …and Kenley Jansen.
