April 1, 2023
Houston Astros — Before last nights game, manager Dusty Baker said he wanted to stay away from relievers he had used on Thursday. So with a 3 run lead in the 9th it was obviously Rafael Montero (who threw the 8th on Thursday) who got the ball in the 9th. Montero did only throw 10 pitches vs. Ryan Pressley’s 21, so this is almost certainly early season load management, but Pressly’s season did start with a him taking a loss after giving up 2 runs in a tie game. Pressly has earned plenty of rope so no need to worry about this situation yet.
Hierarchy Remains: Pressly | Montero | Abreu.
Miami Marlins — The first save of the Marlins committee went to A.J. Puk, who pitched the 9th inning of a 2 run game. He gave up a solo homer to Pete Alonso, but was otherwise unscathed. Dylan Floro was brought in to face righties in 8th (and immediately faced 2 left handed pinch hitters). We still think Floro will see the bulk of chances due to the righty-lefty matchups, but if you’re scraping the barrel for Marlins saves, Puk is about even in this committee.
Hierarchy Remains: *Floro | Puk | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee
Colorado Rockies — Colorado held a 4 run lead last night, so we did get to see the committee in action. Brad Hand took the 8th inning and surrendered a run, leaving a save situation for Pierce Johnson. Johnson struck out 2 on the way to his first career save. As with all committees, this one will likely be flexible, but Johnson seems to have the inside track for now.
Hierarchy remains: *Johnson | Hand | Lamet.
* = closer-by-committee
Arizona Diamondbacks — The Diamondbacks scored 2 runs in the top of the 8th to take a lead, and after long reliever Drey Jameson got 2 outs, they turned to Scott McGough for the last out. He walked the first batters he faced, but got out of the inning only to be lifted after walking the first batter of the 9th. This left Andrew Chafin for the save, and he stranded the runner to pick it up. We won’t make a move on this hierarchy yet, but keep an eye on how McGough gets used his next time out.
Hierarchy Remains: *McGough | Chafin | Castro.
* = closer-by-committee
Vulture Save Watch:
- James Karinchik (CLE) — Emmanual Clase pitched in a non-save spot yesterday, and if the Guardians are overly cautious they may hold him out today.
For Sunday:
- Brad Hand (COL) — Today would be back to back for Pierce Johnson and Brad Hand, so expect them to rest Sunday if they pitch today.
