July 2, 2021
Seattle Mariners — Paul Sewald recorded the final four outs Thursday for the surging Seattle Mariners (22-13 in their last 35 games) to earn his first save. Kendall Graveman did not pitch, and there was no indication postgame that Sewald is now “the guy.” But a look at the numbers shows just how good Sewald has been: 1.66 ERA, 1.02 WHIP and 38 Ks in just 21.2 IP. Could Seattle continue riding the hot hand? We shall see…
Updated hierarchy: Graveman | Sewald | Misiewicz.
Arizona Diamondbacks — Joakim Soria has finally picked up his first save for the Diamondbacks, who are now just 23-60 on the season. Save chances will be few and far between, but with Stefan Crichton and Chris Devenski out of the picture, the job is Soria’s to lose.
Hierarchy remains: Soria | Ramirez | Buchter.
Philadelphia Phillies — The Phillies have activated Brandon Kintzler to help their beleaguered bullpen and designated Neftalí Feliz for assignment. We’ll monitor Kintzler’s usage and give updates as necessary, but don’t be surprised if he finds his way into the hierarchy sooner rather than later.
Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Bradley | Neris.
* = closer-by-committee
Toronto Blue Jays – The Blue Jays could soon get more bullpen reinforcements. Rafael Dolis will join Triple-A Buffalo on a rehab assignment on Friday.
Hierarchy remains: Romano | Chatwood | Mayza.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today:
1. Ryan Burr (CHW) — Liam Hendriks threw 23 pitches Thursday and has pitched in two of three and four of six.
2. Emilio Pagan (SD) – Mark Melancon had a rough and taxing outing Thursday (28 pitches) and has gone in three of five.
3. Carlos Estevez (COL) – Daniel Bard has gone in two straight and three of four.
Saturday:
1. Noe Ramirez (ARI) – A Friday outing would be three in a row for Joakim Soria.
2. Adam Ottavino (BOS) – Matt Barnes threw in three straight earlier this week. A Friday appearance would be four of five for him.
3. Austin Voth (WAS) – If Brad Hand pitches Friday, that would be four of six for him.
4. Mike Mayers (LAA) – Same above for Raisel Iglesias.
5. Giovanny Gallegos (STL) – If he goes Friday, that would be three of four for Alex Reyes.
6. Blake Treinen (LAD) – A Friday outing would be three of five for Kenley Jansen, and the Dodgers usually don’t like to overwork their closer this time of year (or ever, really).
