August 17, 2023
Seattle Mariners – Matt Brash picked up his third save of the year, with Andres Munoz getting the day off. Ring the bell for the VSW.
Hierarchy remains: Munoz | Brash | Topa.
San Diego Padres – Scott Barlow has had a rough start to his Padres career, allowing 9 runs across his first four appearances, and while he’s settled down since (three scoreless innings this week), the Padres are still using Robert Suarez as their primary setup man. Barlow could ascend there if he gets himself sorted, but for now, we’ll bump him down a few notches until he sees some higher-leverage work.
Updated hierarchy: Hader | Suarez | Wilson.
Chicago White Sox – Gregory Santos entered the 9th inning with a 2-run lead and ended up taking the loss without recording a single out (double, walk, home run). With a dearth of options for this bullpen, Santos is still committee leader for the time being, but maybe the White Sox shake things up next time.
Hierarchy remains: *Santos | Bummer | Shaw.
* = closer-by-committee
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
Today
1. Justin Topa/Tayler Saucedo – Andres Munoz might need another day off after 42 pitches on Tuesday, while Matt Brash has gone in three of four.
2. Drew Smith – Adam Ottavino and Brooks Raley have gone three of four.
3. Scott McGough – Paul Sewald and Kevin Ginkel have both gone back to back and four of five.
Tomorrow
1. Hunter Harvey – If Kyle Finnegan goes today, it’s back to back.
2. Robert Suarez/Steven Wilson – Same for Josh Hader and Robert Suarez.
