August 8, 2013
Houston Astros – Just a week and a half ago, Jose Cisnero was almost everyone’s pick to close for Houston after the trade of Jose Veras. Now, after another rough outing yesterday, Cisnero is headed to the minors. Also in Astros news, Josh Fields followed up a dominant first save chance with a hideous second appearance, as he gave up 3 runs in the 9th inning to the Astros. Though he was never officially the full time closer, last night’s drubbing will make it less likely that he gets the next save chance. If he does get passed over next time, Chia-Jen Lo is the next best candidate; he’s got a 0.00 ERA through 4 innings. Hierarchy change: Josh Zeid to 2nd in line, replacing Jose Cisnero. Josh Fields to Hot Seat.
| . | Closer | . | Set-Up | . | 2nd in line | . | 2014 Closer | . | Updated | |
| HOU | Josh Fields | Chia-Jen Lo | Josh Zeid | Josh Fields | 8/8/13 |
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Cincinnati Reds – Jonathan Broxton was activated from the DL yesterday. Given his past closing experience, he’ll likely be considered for any saves when Aroldis Chapman is unavailable, but he’ll have to show something formidable to unseat J.J. Hoover from the set-up role, as Hoover has now thrown 21.2 consecutive scoreless innings. Hierarchy change: Jonathan Broxton to 2nd in line, replacing Manny Parra.
| . | Closer | . | Set-Up | . | 2nd in line | . | 2014 Closer | . | Updated | |
| CIN | Aroldis Chapman | J.J. Hoover | Jonathan Broxton | Jonathan Broxton | 8/7/13 |
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