April 21, 2015
Cleveland Indians – Nick Hagadone is getting more opportunities in the late innings — he shared the 8th inning with Bryan Shaw last night — and is in line for more holds going forward. Cody Allen, meanwhile, imploded in the 9th, surrendering 4 runs and blowing a 3-run lead. He’s been very shaky so far this year, but after a stellar 2014 campaign, we don’t think his job is in jeopardy quite yet.
Updated hierarchy: Allen | Shaw | Hagadone.
Tampa Bay Rays – Jake McGee is on his way to the Durham Bulls to begin a rehab assignment after throwing a successful bullpen session on Sunday. Brad Boxberger has pitched well in the closer role to start the season, but expect McGee could potentially compete for save opportunities as soon as he completes his stint in Triple-A.
Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | Jepsen | Frieri.
Kansas City Royals – An MRI revealed that Greg Holland suffered a low-grade strain to his right pectoral muscle. As expected, Holland’s injury is not serious and should not have him sidelined for very long. Wade Davis will get saves in his absence, especially now that Kelvin Herrera may be suspended following his foray into headhunting on Sunday.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Herrera | Frasor.
Detroit Tigers – In other injury news, Bruce Rondon is on the mend and has returned to throwing off a mound following being shut down with biceps tendonitis. He will return to the Tigers’ bullpen and could quickly become a strong holds option, pitching ahead of Joakim Soria until Old Man Joe Nathan hobbles back to the Hot Seat.
Hierarchy remains: Soria | Chamberlain | Krol.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Chad Qualls/Pat Neshek, Houston Astros – Luke Gregerson has pitched in three straight.
2. Roberto Osuna/Brett Cecil, Toronto Blue Jays – John Gibbons has mixed and matched relievers for the past week.
3. Tanner Scheppers/Shawn Tolleson, Texas Rangers – Neftali Feliz might need a second day off after a marathon 47-pitch outing on Sunday.
