May 8, 2022
Minnesota Twins – Jhoan Duran recorded the last six outs, five via strikeout, to preserve a 1-0 Twins victory and earn his second save of the season. Emilio Pagan picked up the save on Friday so this is still a committee, but it’s hard not to get excited about Duran, especially when he keeps hitting over 102 MPH on the radar gun. Pagan may see more save chances in the short-term, but Duran certainly has to potential to be a dominant closer for a long time
Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Duran | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
Pittsburgh Pirates — The Pirates went with Chris Stratton in the 8th inning and David Bednar in the 9th inning yesterday to close out an 8-5 victory. Bednar continues to impress as he struck out the side and lowered his ERA to 0.71. He also has both Pirates’ saves in May and could be close to kicking the committee tag.
Hierarchy remains: *Bednar | Stratton | Hembree.
*= closer-by-committee
Houston Astros – Ryan Pressly was much better in his second appearance since returning from the IL as he pitched a perfect inning for his fourth save of the season. Fantasy owners will hope that Pressly can put his knee injury behind him and get back to pitching like he did last season.
Hierarchy remains: Pressly | Montero | Stanek.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today
1. Kendall Graveman (CHW) – Liam Hendricks has pitched in two straight and five of six.
2. Rafael Montero (HOU) – Ryan Pressly has pitched in two of three since coming off the IL.
3. Ian Kennedy (ARI) – Mark Melancon has pitched in back-to-back, including a 26 pitch outing yesterday.
4. Alex Colome/Carlos Estevez (COL) – Daniel Bard has pitched in three of four, while Alex Colome has pitched in two of three.
Monday
1. Trevor Stephan (CLE) – if Emmanuel Clase pitches on Sunday it will be two straight.
2. Tyler Matzek/Will Smith (ATL) – same for Kenley Jansen.
3. Art Warren (CIN) – Lucas Sims threw 27 pitches yesterday and will likely need Monday off if he pitches again on Sunday.
