2012 Archives
October 2, 2012
Philadelphia Phillies – Phillippe Aumont picked up his second save of the season on Monday. Jonathan Papelbon had pitched in two straight and was unavailable. No hierarchy change.
Pittsburgh Pirates – With Joel Hanrahan and Jason Grilli unavailable after pitching in two straight, Jared Hughes picked up his second save of the season. No hierarchy change.
Colorado Rockies – Josh Roenicke picked up his first career save on Monday, retiring the final two batters in extra innings. Roenicke was the sixth man out of the pen. No hierarchy change.
Houston Astros – Though Wilton Lopez was available, the Astros went to Wesley Wright for the final four outs on Monday. However, this was a match-up play, as Wright faced off against several lefties in earning his first save of the year. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde has pitched in three straight.
2. Sean Doolittle, Oakland A’s – Both Grant Balfour and Ryan Cook have pitched in three straight.
3. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
October 1, 2012
Arizona Diamondbacks – Matt Lindstrom tossed another scoreless inning on Sunday, and finished September having allowed only 1 run in 11 outings. Brad Ziegler has given up runs in three of his last four outings, while Lindstrom picked up two holds in the last week. Hierarchy change: Matt Lindstrom to 2nd in line, replacing Brad Ziegler.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 30, 2012
Kansas City Royals – Kelvin Herrera picked up a save in the 14th inning on Saturday. Greg Holland blew the save in the 9th, but his job is not in jeopardy. No hierarchy change.
Atlanta Braves – Jonny Venters is finishing his up-and-down season on the up side. After picking up the hold in the 8th inning yesterday, he’s got six straight scoreless appearances, and has lowered his ERA from a high of 4.40 in July to 3.28. Hierarchy change: Jonny Venters to 2nd in line, replacing Chad Durbin.
Washington Nationals – Craig Stammen picked up an extra-inning save on Saturday. Drew Storen, Tyler Clippard, and Sean Burnett had already appeared in the game. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 29, 2012
San Francisco Giants – Sergio Romo got a night off on Friday, so Javier Lopez and Santiago Casilla combined to get through the 9th inning. Casilla got the last two outs and picked up his first save in several months. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jon Rauch, New York Mets – Bobby Parnell has pitched in two straight and five of the last six.
2. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 28, 2012
(UPDATED 10:26 PM EDT) New York Mets – Bobby Parnell just picked up his 6th save of the season. Earlier today, the Mets said that Parnell would close for the last week of the season, so he might be good for one or two more save chances. Hierarchy change: Bobby Parnell to Closer, Jon Rauch to Set-up.
New York Mets – After Jon Rauch gave up a 2-run HR in the 9th inning on Thursday, Bobby Parnell got the last two outs for his fifth save of the season. With Frank Francisco likely done for the year, Rauch and Parnell will split opportunities in the season’s final week. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
2. Bobby Parnell, New York Mets – With Frank Francisco on the shelf, Jon Rauch and Bobby Parnell will split save chances in the season’s final week.
September 27, 2012
Seattle Mariners – Stephen Pryor pitched the final 1.1 innings for the Mariners on Wednesday, and was saddled with the loss when Torii Hunter drove in the game winning run in the 9th. But despite the rough outing, Pryor has been stellar as of late, and has been repeatedly trusted in late-inning spots. Hierarchy change: Stephen Pryor to 2nd in line, replacing Charlie Furbush.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri has pitched in two straight and four of the last five, and Kevin Jepsen has pitched 4 innings over the past four days.
2. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 26, 2012
New York Mets – ESPN New York reported this morning that Frank Francisco is likely done for the year. Terry Collins said that Francisco was unable to play catch on Tuesday and that it was “getting near that point of no return.” Jon Rauch will close in his stead, and Bobby Parnell could also get a chance or two. Hierarchy change: Jon Rauch to Closer, Bobby Parnell to Set-up, Josh Edgin to 2nd in line.
Minnesota Twins – Casey Fien pitched the 7th inning on Tuesday, earning the win ahead of Jared Burton and Glen Perkins. Fien has a 1.62 ERA on the year and has allowed 0 or 1 earned runs in all but one of his 32 appearances. Hierarchy change: Casey Fien to 2nd in line, replacing Alex Burnett.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
2. Tyler Clippard, Washington Nationals – Drew Storen is likely to get the majority of opportunities from here on out, but Davey Johnson said that Tyler Clippard could still occasionally get a save chance.
September 25, 2012
Washington Nationals – In Monday’s 10-run blowout, the Nats went to Tyler Clippard in the 8th inning and Drew Storen in the 9th. After the game, Davey Johnson said that Storen is now more likely to be used in the 9th, although the two will both close, depending on matchups. “The guy that goes out there is the closer that day,” Johnson told the Washington Post. “How’s that?” Hierarchy change: Drew Storen to Closer, Tyler Clippard to Set-up.
Chicago White Sox – After the White Sox grabbed the lead from the Indians in the bottom of the 8th, Robin Ventura sent lefty Matt Thornton out in a save situation in the 9th. Thornton gave up hits to two of the three batters he faced, so he was pulled for another lefty — Donnie Veal — who ultimately earned his first major league save. Although Addison Reed remains on the Hot Seat, it’s likely that this was just a reaction to an unexpected lead change. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 24, 2012
Houston Astros – Wesley Wright pitched in the 5th inning on Sunday, and isn’t likely to see any more save opps, even if Wilton Lopez is unavailable. These chances will likely go to Jose Valdez, the team’s AAA closer who was called up in September. Hierarchy change: Jose Valdez to Set-up, Wesley Wright to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Edward Mujica, St. Louis Cardinals – Jason Motte and Mitchell Boggs have both pitched in two straight and five of the last six.
2. Jon Rauch, New York Mets – Frank Francisco’s availability has been inconsistent for the past week, as he’s been battling a few nagging injuries.
September 23, 2012
Boston Red Sox – Junichi Tazawa pitched the 9th inning in a tie game on Saturday. He’s been the most reliable Boston reliever over the last few weeks, including Andrew Bailey, and has earned the trust of Bobby Valentine. Hierarchy change: Junichi Tazawa to Set-up, Vicente Padilla to 2nd in line.
New York Mets – Jon Rauch picked up a save on Saturday. Frank Francisco was reportedly available, but the Mets left Rauch in even after he allowed a HR. Francisco remains on the Hot Seat, which has basically been a second home for the Mets closer this year, but he hasn’t lost the job yet, as the Mets were probably just giving him an extra day to recover from a nagging injury that kept him out of a few games earlier this week. No hierarchy change.
Seattle Mariners – Josh Kinney pitched the 8th inning ahead of Tom Wilhelmsen on Saturday. Charlie Furbush, one of the most consistent relievers in the Seattle bullpen earlier this year, hasn’t seen much action as of late. Hierarchy change: Josh Kinney to Set-up, Charlie Furbush to 2nd in line.
Kansas City Royals – As predicted in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch, Kelvin Herrera got the save for the Royals on Saturday. Greg Holland had pitched in three straight and got the night off. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Pedro Strop, Baltimore Orioles – Jim Johnson has pitched in two straight and four of the last five.
2. Josh Kinney, Seattle Mariners – Tom Wilhelmsen has pitched in two straight, and has thrown 6 innings over the past five days.
3. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 22, 2012
Washington Nationals – Tyler Clippard blew the save last night and has now allowed runs in 5 of his past 8 outings. Manager Davey Johnson has said that he will split the closer role between Clippard and Drew Storen the rest of the season. “I have confidence in both of them closing,” Johnson said. Tyler Clippard to Hot Seat.
San Diego Padres – Huston Street was activated from the DL on Friday and should resume his closing duties. Hierarchy change: Huston Street to Closer, Luke Gregerson to Set-up, Dale Thayer to 2nd in Line.
Los Angeles Dodgers – Kenlsey Jansen pitched the 7th inning in a tie game last night. Manager Don Matthingly said that he would like to ease Jansen back into the closer role. Brandon League picked up the save in extras and could see a couple more save opps before Jansen is back to closing. Hierarchy change: Kenley Jansen to Set-up, Ronald Belisario to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jim Henderson, Milwaukee Brewers – John Axford has thrown 61 pitches over the last 3 days.
2. Kelvin Herrera, Kansas City Royals – Greg Holland has pitched 3 days in a row.
3. Jonathan Broxton, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman might be a few more days away from returning.
4. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 21, 2012
Detroit Tigers – Al Alburquerque was extraordinary for the Tigers last season, but a stress fracture in his throwing elbow required offseason surgery, sidelining him for much of this year. In the four outings since his recall on September 2, Alburquerque has allowed only one hit against nine strikeouts; this includes a sparkling 2.1 innings yesterday against Oakland. His return will ease any Tiger concern about Octavio Dotel’s recent struggles. Hierarchy change: Al Alburquerque to 2nd in line, replacing Octavio Dotel.
San Diego Padres – Given a one-run lead, Luke Gregerson put two men on to start the ninth – so Bud Black played the platoon advantage for the rest of the inning, using five different pitchers who loaded the bases with no outs, only to escape unscathed. Anthony Bass was the last man standing, striking out Aaron Hill for his first career save. No hierarchy change.
Cincinnati Reds – As predicted, the Reds gave Jonathan Broxton the night off – but it was Alfredo Simon who picked up the save in Aroldis Chapman’s continued absence. No hierarchy change.
Washington Nationals – After pitching in both ends of Wednesday’s doubleheader, Tyler Clippard was rested on Thursday in favor of Drew Storen. No hierarchy change.
New York Yankees – The Yankees did indeed rest Rafael Soriano, but it was David Robertson who collected the save in his absence, striking out the side. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jim Henderson, Milwaukee Brewers – John Axford has thrown 42 pitches in the last two days.
2. Fernando Salas, St. Louis Cardinals – Jason Motte has pitched in three straight games and on five of the last six days. Mitchell Boggs and Edward Mujica have also seen heavy recent use.
3. Jonathan Broxton, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman might be a few more days away from returning.
4. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
5. Vicente Padilla, Boston Red Sox – Andrew Bailey blew a save on Thursday in a brutal 28-pitch outing. His job is safe, but he might need a day off.
September 20, 2012
Cincinnati Reds – Another night, another save for Jonathan Broxton. Aroldis Chapman told reporters that his fatigued shoulder “feels good,” but also said he could need two or three more sessions in the bullpen to regain his command. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joba Chamberlain, New York Yankees – Rafael Soriano earned two saves yesterday, and David Robertson had a difficult game.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins has been busy lately and Burton had last night off.
3. Sean Marshall, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman is still out and Jonathan Broxton has thrown on three of the last four days.
4. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 19, 2012
Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek got knocked around on Tuesday night, eventually getting yanked after allowing three runs and only recording one out. Cishek’s ERA is now 9.95 for the month of August, pushing his season-long ERA up to nearly 3, which is probably where it should’ve been anyway, given his crummy WHIP (1.34). After Tuesday’s outing, he’ll be looking over his shoulder at Heath Bell, who the Marlins would probably like to see win the job back going into next season. Steve Cishek to Hot Seat.
Cincinnati Reds – Jonathan Broxton picked up his third NL save in Aroldis Chapman’s absence on Tuesday. Chapman is throwing a bullpen session today and could resume closing shortly, but Broxton is worth holding on to in case the Reds shut the hard-throwing lefty down until the playoffs. No hierarchy change.
Chicago White Sox – Matt Thornton pitched a clean 8th inning, then stayed on to face the first hitter of the 9th before giving way to Addison Reed, who recorded the final two outs. Thornton and Brett Myers are jockeying for the 8th inning role, but as a lefty, Thornton is probably more likely to pick up a random save here and there, given Robin Ventura’s recent tendency to play match-ups all the way through the 9th. Hierarchy change: Matt Thornton to Set-up, Brett Myers to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Heath Bell, Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek got knocked around last night, and has pitched in four of the last five. He might get the day off today.
2. Jonathan Broxton, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman’s fatigued arm means Jonathan Broxton should see the majority of Cincinnati save chances over the next week or so.
3. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 18, 2012
San Francisco Giants – On Monday, Santiago Casilla finished the 7th inning, pitched a clean 8th, then got the first out of the 9th with the Giants up by 1 run. With Jeremy Affeldt going through some serious struggles over the past month or so, Casilla has been getting more usage in high-leverage situations. Hierarchy change: Santiago Casilla to 2nd in line, replacing Jeremy Affeldt.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jonathan Broxton, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman’s fatigued arm means Jonathan Broxton should see the majority of Cincinnati save chances over the next week or so.
2. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 17, 2012
Cincinnati Reds – Jonathan Broxton picked up his second NL save on Sunday. Aroldis Chapman will be sidelined for a few more days with a tired arm. No hierarchy change.
Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri was given the night off on Sunday after pitching two days in a row and getting knocked around on Saturday. Kevin Jepsen got the save in his place, but Frieri’s job is not in jeopardy. No hierarchy change.
Texas Rangers – Koji Uehara picked up his first save of the season on Sunday. Joe Nathan has had some arm fatigue and is being rested. Uehara has been pitching a lot lately, having not allowed a run in September. Hierarchy change: Koji Uehara to 2nd in line, replacing Mike Adams.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde has pitched in three straight and five of the last six. He’s a near certainty to get a day off today.
2. Heath Bell, Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek has pitched in three straight.
3. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 16, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Addison Reed allowed three baserunners without recording an out on Saturday, and had to be bailed out by Matt Thornton, who picked up the save. Reed has now allowed multiple baserunners, and at least one run, in 7 of his last 9 appearances. Addison Reed to Hot Seat.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jonathan Broxton, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman’s fatigued arm means Jonathan Broxton should see the majority of Cincinnati save chances over the next week or so.
2. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 15, 2012
Boston Red Sox – Up by a run in the 7th inning, the Red Sox turned to Junichi Tazawa, who pitched a scoreless inning. Tazawa, who has a 1.47 ERA on the year, is earning the trust of Bobby Valentine and is being used in tight, late-game situations more frequently. Hierarchy change: Junichi Tazawa to 2nd in line, replacing Alfredo Aceves.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jonathan Broxton, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman’s fatigued arm means Jonathan Broxton should see the majority of Cincinnati save chances over the next week or so.
2. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 14, 2012
Philadelphia Phillies – The Phillies went back to Phillippe Aumont yet again in a close 8th inning, this time after Antonio Bastardo had already pitched the 7th. Although Aumont struggled with his control and was tagged with the loss, all three runs were scored after he was relieved with two outs in favor of lefty Jake Diekman. All signs point to Aumont’s ascension in the Philadelphia pen. Hierarchy change: Phillippe Aumont to Set-up, Antonio Bastardo to 2nd in line.
Texas Rangers – On his third straight night of work, Joe Nathan was horrid, giving up three runs on four hits and blowing the save before being replaced by Koji Uehara. Nathan’s team-record 31 straight converted save chances have earned him some good will. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Mike Adams, Texas Rangers – As noted, Joe Nathan has pitched in three straight games for the Rangers, culminating in a blown save on Thursday night.
2. Pedro Strop, Baltimore Orioles – Jim Johnson has thrown over 20 pitches on two straight days and Strop got last night off.
September 13, 2012
New York Yankees – For the second straight night, Boone Logan entered in the 7th and failed to retire the hitter he was summoned to face — and for the second straight night, it was Joba Chamberlain who relieved him and finished the inning. Hierarchy change: Joba Chamberlain to 2nd in line, replacing Boone Logan.
Los Angeles Dodgers – Ronald Belisario pitched the 8th inning with the Dodgers down a run last night. Although Don Mattingly has yet to commit to Brandon League as the interim closer, League’s experience seems to have given him the edge in the platoon. Hierarchy change: Brandon League to Closer, Ronald Belisario to Set-up.
Arizona Diamondbacks – With J.J. Putz out with an ailing back, David Hernandez picked up his second straight save. No hierarchy change.
Oakland A’s – As expected, Grant Balfour got the night off after three straight games of work, and it was Ryan Cook summoned for a one-out save. No hierarchy change.
Cincinnati Reds – Jonathan Broxton had pitched in four of the past five games, so the Reds used young J.J. Hoover in a one-run ninth. No hierarchy change.
Washington Nationals – Drew Storen nabbed his second save last night, as we predicted, while Tyler Clippard enjoyed a restful evening. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Antonio Bastardo, Philadelphia Phillies – Jonathan Papelbon has pitched in two straight games and three of the last four, and Philippe Aumont pitched the 8th last night.
2. Charlie Furbush, Seattle Mariners – Two straight outings for Tom Wilhelmsen could give Furbush an opportunity on Thursday.
September 12, 2012
Cincinnati Reds – After Aroldis Chapman’s last outing, when even his best fastball was clocked several miles per hour slower than it had been all year, the Reds became concerned that the flame throwing lefty may be injured. Fortunately, a scan revealed nothing serious, but Chapman will likely be shut down for a week or so to recover. Jonathan Broxton should see save opportunities in his place over the next few days; he picked up his first National League save of the year on Tuesday. No hierarchy change.
Philadelphia Phillies – Phillippe Aumont pitched the 8th inning ahead of Jonathan Papelbon for the second time this week. Aumont, a 23-year-old prospect who was closing for the Phillies in AAA also picked up a save last week, and may get another chance or two down the stretch. Hierarchy change: Phillippe Aumont to 2nd in line, replacing Josh Lindblom.
Houston Astros – Jose Valdez pitched a perfect 8th inning ahead of Wilton Lopez on Tuesday, earning his second hold of the season. Valdez, a hard-throwing righty, was closing for Houston’s AAA team, where he amassed 66 Ks in 48.2 innings. Hierarchy change: Jose Valdez to 2nd in line, replacing Fernando Rodriguez.
Oakland A’s – Grant Balfour got into trouble in the 9th inning on Tuesday, and Jerry Blevins bailed him out for his first save of the season. Balfour has been pitching well since returning to the closer role and it’s unlikely that his job is in jeopardy. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jonathan Broxton, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman is likely to be sidelined for a week while he regains his arm strength, and Jonathan Broxton should see the majority of save chances in the interim.
2. Ryan Cook, Oakland A’s – Grant Balfour has pitched in three straight games.
3. Drew Storen, Washington Nationals – Tyler Clippard has pitched in two straight and four of the last five. Storen has also appeared in each of those same games, but has thrown far fewer pitches.
4. Brandon League, Los Angeles Dodgers – Brandon League is sharing save chances with Ronald Belisario.
5. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 11, 2012
Philadelphia Phillies – Antonio Bastardo picked up his first save of the season on Monday. As mentioned in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch, Jonathan Papelbon had pitched in both games of Sunday’s doubleheader. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Shawn Camp, Chicago Cubs – Carlos Marmol has pitched in two straight and three of the last four.
2. Brandon League, Los Angeles Dodgers – Brandon League is sharing save chances with Ronald Belisario.
3. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 10, 2012
Atlanta Braves – Peter Moylan picked up his first save of the season in a 10-inning game on Sunday. Craig Kimbrel and Eric O’Flaherty had already been used earlier on. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Antonio Bastardo, Philadelphia Phillies – Jonathan Papelbon pitched in both games of yesterday’s doubleheader.
2. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 9, 2012
Los Angeles Dodgers – Brandon League on Saturday picked up his second save since joining the Dodgers, pitching a clean 9th inning. League, who altered his delivery after joining Los Angeles, has been pitching spectacularly lately, and is sharing opportunities with Ronald Belisario until Kenley Jansen returns in about two weeks. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Brett Myers, Chicago White Sox – Addison Reed has racked up a lot of pitches thrown in the last few days, having pitched twice in a row and in three of the last four.
2. Brandon League, Los Angeles Dodgers – Brandon League is sharing save chances with Ronald Belisario.
3. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 8, 2012
Los Angeles Angels – Kevin Jepsen pitched the 8th inning ahead of Ernesto Frieri last night, after Scott Downs was unable to record an out in the 7th. Downs hasn’t been quite as effective as the hard-throwing righty lately, and it’s shown in their usage, as Jepsen has been called on in the 8th inning regularly over the past few weeks. Hierarchy change: Kevin Jepsen to Set-up, Scott Downs to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jonny Venters, Atlanta Braves – Both Craig Kimbrel and Eric O’Flaherty have pitched in three straight.
2. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 7, 2012
New York Yankees – It was a rough night for the Yankees bullpen, which surrendered four 8th inning runs in a loss to the Orioles. Boone Logan was among the relievers who were touched up, as he gave up a run without recording an out. But the lefty has been getting a lot of late inning opportunities in recent weeks, while Joba Chamberlain has been pitching early in games, or in blowouts. Hierarchy change: Boone Logan to 2nd in line, replacing Joba Chamberlain.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 6, 2012
San Diego Padres – Tom Layne picked up his second save of the season on Wednesday, retiring the only batter he faced. Luke Gregerson had pitched to the first three hitters of the inning (allowing the third to reach) and is still the best bet for saves until Huston Street returns. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jim Henderson, Milwaukee Brewers – John Axford has pitched in two straight and four of the last five.
September 5, 2012
Milwaukee Brewers – Francisco Rodriguez pitched a clean 7th inning on Tuesday, picking up his 25th hold of the year. K-Rod actually was summoned a week ago for a save chance when John Axford was unavailable, and while he blew that save chance, he has reestablished himself as a late-inning reliever in the Brewers bullpen. Hierarchy change: Francisco Rodriguez to 2nd in line, replacing Kameron Loe.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Brandon League, Los Angeles Dodgers – Ronald Belisario has pitched in three straight. With the Dodgers using a committee anyway, League is certain to get a save opportunity tonight if the Dodgers have a lead.
2. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo continue to share the 9th inning role for the Giants.
September 4, 2012
Cleveland Indians – Vinny Pestano picked up his second save of the season as Chris Perez was still out on paternity leave. Perez is expected to be back on Tuesday and will resume closing duties when he comes back. No hierarchy change.
Philadelphia Phillies – Jonathan Papelbon threw in the bullpen but that was all manager Charlie Manuel wanted out of his closer after Papelbon had pitched four of the last six days. Right-hander Phillippe Aumont came on in the ninth for his first major league save. Antonio Bastardo had also faced heavy work of late, so Justin De Fratus pitched the eighth for his first hold of the season. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Charlie Furbush, Seattle Mariners – Tom Wilhelmsen has pitched in three straight games, throwing 56 pitches total.
2. Brandon League, Los Angeles Dodgers – Manager Don Mattingly has said he will use a committee going forward, so League could see save opportunities in the future.
3. Edward Mujica, St. Louis Cardinals – Jason Motte threw 31 pitches for a five-out save on Monday and Mitchell Boggs struggled through a 22-pitch outing on Monday, so Mujica may be called upon for the save if Motte and Boggs need rest.
September 3, 2012
Seattle Mariners – Josh Kinney picked up the last two outs of the 8th in a 2 run game. While Luetge has been impressive, his role is more of a high leverage lefty specialist. If both Wilhelmsen and Furbush were unavailable, its likely that the 9th inning duties would fall to the right handed Kinney. Hierarchy change: Josh Kinney to 2nd in line, replacing Lucas Luetge.
San Francisco Giants – As predicted in the vulture save watch, Javier Lopez picked up the save yesterday. San Francisco continues to use a true committee in close games, so Romo, Lopez and Affeldt could all get teh call in the 9th inning. No Hierarchy Change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Charlie Furbush, Seattle Mariners – Tom Wilhelmsen has pitched in 2 straight games, throwing 44 pitches total.
2. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Lopez picked up the save last night, and could get the call again in the Giants committee.
September 2, 2012
Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves was used for 3 innings of mop-up duty last night, and seems to have fallen farther on Bobby Valentine’s depth chart. While the Red Sox bullpen is volatile, Aceves has been relegated to a less important role. Hierarchy change: Vicente Padilla to Set-up, Alfredo Aceves to 2nd in line.
Cleveland Indians – Vinny Pestano pitched for 1 out in the 8th, and stayed on to close the game. Chris Perez was unavailable because he just had a child, and should resume closing duties when he comes back. No Hierarchy Changes.
Chicago White Sox – Addison Reed pitched the 8th inning with the White Sox trailing 4-0, but he had not pitched since August 25. He is in no danger of losing his job, and was just getting some work in between save opportunities. No Hierarchy change.
Los Angeles Dodgers – As predicted in yesterday’s vulture save watch, Brandon League picked up the save while Belisario was recovering from a 26 pitch outing the night before. No Hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Heath Bell, Miami Marlins – Steve Cisek has pitched in 2 straght, including a 29 pitch outing yesterday that resulted in a blown save.
2. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde has pitched in 2 straight, throwing a total of 32 pitches.
3. Mitch Boggs, Edward Mujica, St. Louis Cardinals – Jason Motte has pitched in 2 straight, throwing 32 pitches total, Boggs would normally close in his stead, but he has also pitched the last 2, opening the door for a possible super-vulture save from Mujica.
4. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Romo got the save last night, but the committee continues, and Lopez could steal a save any day.
September 1, 2012
Los Angeles Dodgers – Matt Guerrier returned from the 60-day DL on Friday, allowing one run and taking the loss after he entered a tie game in the 11th inning. Guerrier had not pitched since April 18. He will move back into the 7th-inning role that he held before his injury. Hierarchy change: Matt Guerrier to 2nd in line, replacing Jamey Wright.
San Diego Padres – Luke Gregerson collected his third consecutive save on Saturday, just a few hours after Huston Street suffered a setback in his rehab. Dale Thayer got the first two save chances after Street’s injury, but Gregerson has picked up the last three, and should continue to see chances until Street returns. Hierarchy change: Luke Gregerson to Closer, Dale Thayer to Set-up.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Darren Oliver, Toronto Blue Jays – Casey Janssen has pitched in three straight, and four of the last five.
2. Brandon League, Los Angeles Dodgers – Ronald Belisario pitched two innings on Friday night, throwing 26 pitches.
3. Dale Thayer, San Diego Padres – While Luke Gregerson has been the go-to guy when the Padres lead in the ninth, Dale Thayer could get a save opportunity until Huston Street returns.
4. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
5. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – With the Giants in full committee mode, Sergio Romo or Javier Lopez could get a save on any night.
August 31, 2012
Kansas City Royals – With Greg Holland getting the night off after two high-leverage saves in a row, the Royals went to flamethrower Kelvin Herrera for the save. Herrera allowed two runners to reach, but got the job done and lowered his ERA to 2.49 on the year. He’ll likely be the man the Royals turn to if Holland needs any time off in the future. Hierarchy change: Kelvin Herrera to Set-up, Aaron Crow to 2nd in line.
San Francisco Giants – After Santiago Casilla was demoted, Jeremy Affeldt received the first two save opportunities. With the ability to pitch to both lefties and righties (as opposed to Javier Lopez) and with the ability to pitch in multiple games in a row without injury concerns (as opposed to Sergio Romo), Affeldt looked like the best bet to seize the majority of the San Francisco committee’s saves. But since blowing his second save chance, he hasn’t gotten another look. Meanwhile, Lopez has nabbed four saves and Sergio Romo has picked up three, including one last night. While Lopez is leading the committee in saves since Casilla’s demotion, most of them have been a bit fluky, as he’s induced several double plays to end games while other relievers were warming. Romo will likely get the most chances from here on out. Hierarchy change: Sergio Romo to Closer, Javier Lopez to Set-up, Jeremy Affeldt to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Darren Oliver, Toronto Blue Jays – Casey Janssen has pitched in two straight, and three of the last four.
2. Luke Gregerson, San Diego Padres – It appears that the Padres will be splitting opportunities between Dale Thayer and Luke Gregerson until Huston Street returns.
3. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
4. Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – With the Giants in full committee mode, Sergio Romo or Javier Lopez could get a save on any night.
August 30, 2012
Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves returns from a team-imposed suspension on Tuesday. While Bobby Valentine said on Monday that he wasn’t sure what role the righty would assume upon returning, Aceves’s usage yesterday suggests he’s definitely no longer the team’s closer. With the Red Sox down by 7, Aceves was summoned for two innings of mop-up relief. He’d still likely assume the closer role again if Andrew Bailey struggles, but he’s no longer the man in Boston. Hierarchy change: Alfredo Aceves to Set-up, Vicente Padilla to 2nd in line.
Oakland A’s – Ryan Cook got the last out of the 8th inning in a close game on Wednesday, then stayed on for the 9th after the A’s tacked on a few runs. Cook has been pitching quite well as of late, but unfortunately for him, so has Grant Balfour, who will probably hold on to the role unless he starts to struggle. No hierarchy change.
San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez picked up his 5th save of the season on Wednesday, inducing a double play ground out from the only hitter he faced. The Giants are still in full platoon mode. No hierarchy change.
Los Angeles Dodgers – Ronald Belisario picked up the save on Wednesday, throwing 1.2 innings with the Dodgers up by two runs. After the game, the Dodgers revealed that Kenley Jansen is battling a heart condition that kept him out for a month last year. Seemingly out of nowhere, his season is in jeopardy. Belisario should close, but behind him, there are few sure things. Deadline acquisition Brandon League is the best bet to move in to the set-up role. Hierarchy change: Ronald Belisario to Closer, Brandon League to Set-up, Jamey Wright to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
2. Sergio Romo/Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – With the Giants in full committee mode, Sergio Romo or Javier Lopez could get a save on any night.
August 29, 2012
San Francisco Giants – Sergio Romo picked up his 7th save of the season last night, pitching a clean 9th inning. Jeremy Affeldt was on paternity leave, but the closer role is a full platoon either way, with Affeldt, Romo, and Javier Lopez all sharing save chances. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joba Chamberlain, New York Yankees – Both Rafael Soriano and David Robertson have pitched in three straight and four of the last five.
2. Luke Gregerson, San Diego Padres – It appears that the Padres will be splitting opportunities between Dale Thayer and Luke Gregerson until Huston Street returns.
3. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
4. Sergio Romo/Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – With the Giants in full committee mode, Sergio Romo or Javier Lopez could get a save on any night.
August 28, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Matt Belisle picked up his second save of the season on Monday. He finished off the top of the 8th inning in a 3-run game, then stayed on for the ninth after the Rockies scored 7 runs in the interim. No hierarchy change.
San Diego Padres – Dale Thayer returned from paternity leave yesterday, but he was used in the 8th inning, while Luke Gregerson picked up the save in the 9th. Gregerson has been on fire, having not allowed a run since July 3. He’s now likely sharing opportunities with Thayer until Huston Street returns. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Luke Gregerson, San Diego Padres – It appears that the Padres will be splitting opportunities between Dale Thayer and Luke Gregerson until Huston Street returns.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
3. Sergio Romo/Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – With the Giants in full committee mode, Sergio Romo or Javier Lopez could get a save on any night.
August 27, 2012
San Diego Padres – With Dale Thayer still on paternity leave, Luke Gregerson picked up a save in his absence. Thayer returns today and will resume closing until Huston Street is healthy. No hierarchy change.
Philadelphia Phillies – Josh Lindblom picked up a 1.2 inning save on Sunday, as Jonathan Papelbon had the day off after pitching three in a row. Antonio Bastardo has been the 8th inning man lately, so this may have been a match-up play– four of the five hitters Lindblom faced were righties. No hierarchy change.
Boston Red Sox – With both Andrew Bailey and Vicente Padilla unavailable, the Red Sox went to Mark Melancon in the 9th inning on Sunday. Craig Breslow has been pitching better than anyone else in the Boston bullpen lately, but the Red Sox appear to prefer Melancon’s experience in the closer role. While there won’t be many nights where both Bailey and Padilla (and the suspended Alfredo Aceves) are unavailable, Melancon could see more late-inning work going forward. Hierarchy change: Mark Melancon to 2nd in line, replacing Craig Breslow.
Chicago Cubs – Shawn Camp pitched the 8th inning with the Cubs up by 2 runs, and ended up earning the save when the game was rained out in the bottom of the 8th. Camp will continue to be the 8th inning man moving forward, as he was tonight. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 26, 2012
Oakland A’s – Sean Doolittle pitched the 8th inning ahead of Grant Balfour on Saturday, striking out 2 in a perfect inning for his 9th hold of the year. The A’s have gone back and forth between Doolittle and Jerry Blevins over the past month or so, using whoever is pitching better as their go-to lefty. Lately, that’s been Doolittle, who over his last 7 innings pitched has allowed 0 runs while striking out 13. Hierarchy change: Sean Doolittle to 2nd in line, replacing Jerry Blevins.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Antonio Bastardo, Philadelphia Phillies – Jonathan Papelbon has pitched in three straight games.
2. Craig Breslow, Boston Red Sox – Both Andrew Bailey and Vicente Padilla have pitched in three straight.
3. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
4. Sergio Romo/Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – With the Giants in full committee mode, Sergio Romo or Javier Lopez could get a save on any night.
August 25, 2012
(UPDATED 9:14 PM EDT) Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves has been suspended for three games for conduct detrimental to the team. At the moment, it is unclear whether he was suspended for his expletive-laden media comment after his last blown save, or due to an explosive meeting he had with Bobby Valentine after being bypassed for the save yesterday. Either way, this might be it for the mercurial righty, as Bailey, barring any slip-ups, should take the job and run with it from here. Hierarchy change: Andrew Bailey to Closer, Vicente Padilla to Set-up, Craig Breslow to 2nd in line, Alfredo Aceves suspended.
Boston Red Sox – Andrew Bailey picked up his first save of the season on Friday, throwing a clean 9th inning. He’s definitely on track to win the closer job soon, but he’s not officially the man yet. “I wish he had a little more [appearances] so I could make that determination,” Bobby Valentine told mlb.com. Alfredo Aceves has blown three of his last five save chances, and remains on a blazing Hot Seat, but the job is still his for the time being. No hierarchy change.
Los Angeles Angels – Garrett Richards got the game’s final two outs on Friday, earning his first save of the year. Richards does not factor in to the Angels usual late inning plans; Ernesto Frieri and Kevin Jepsen were unavailable, having both pitched three games in a row, and Scott Downs had already pitched. No hierarchy change.
Milwaukee Brewers – Kameron Loe got the last two outs of the game after John Axford couldn’t close the door on Friday. Axford returns to the Hot Seat with the bad outing, and the uncertainty continues in Milwaukee. No hierarchy change.
San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez picked up his fourth save of the season on Friday. He’s now earned three of the last four save chances for the Giants, but two of his recent saves have been less than one inning long. Lopez won’t accumulate saves at this rate moving forward, but he’s just as likely as Sergio Romo or Jeremy Affeldt to get the last out in the 9th at this point. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Luke Gregerson, San Diego Padres – Dale Thayer is on paternity leave and was not with the team on Friday. He may not return until tomorrow.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
3. Sergio Romo/Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – With the Giants in full committee mode, it’s time for Sergio Romo and Javier Lopez to join Jared Burton as regular members of the vulture save watch. Either could get a save on any night.
August 24, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Matt Belisle picked up the save on Thursday, as Rafael Betancourt was given the night off after pitching in three of the previous four games. No hierarchy change.
San Francisco Giants – The Giants used three relievers to get through the 9th inning on Thursday, and Sergio Romo was the last, as he picked up a two-out save after Jeremy Affeldt and Javier Lopez had both pitched. Affeldt had a bad outing, failing to retire either hitter he faced. He remains on the Hot Seat, and there’s no prohibitive favorite to get saves in the Giants bullpen on any given night any more. No hierarchy change.
Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves had one of his worst outings of the season yesterday, surrendering 5 runs in one inning. He now has a 4.60 ERA, and with Andrew Bailey looming, another blown save or two could cost him his job. Alfredo Aceves to Hot Seat.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri has pitched in three consecutive games, including a marathon 43-pitch inning last night. He’ll need at least one day off to recover.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 23, 2012
Arizona Diamondbacks – Brad Ziegler finished off the 7th inning in the first game of Arizona’s doubleheader on Wednesday, earning his 9th hold of the year. Ziegler is having a solid season, and with 19 career saves, he has some experience as a closer. He could get an odd save chance on nights when JJ Putz and David Hernandez are not available. Hierarchy change: Brad Ziegler to 2nd in line, replacing Matt Albers.
San Diego Padres – Tom Layne, who coming into the game had 3.1 career major league innings, picked up the save on Wednesday, throwing a perfect 9th inning with the Padres up by 2 runs. After blowing a save on Tuesday, Dale Thayer was given the night off, but Layne suddenly becomes a pitcher to watch in San Diego. Hierarchy change: Tom Layne to 2nd in line, replacing Brad Brach.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jonathan Broxton, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman has pitched in two straight, and five of the last six.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 22, 2012
Milwaukee Brewers – John Axford has apparently regained his job as Milwaukee closer, striking out three of the four Cubs he faced in today’s ninth. “He came in and talked to me,” Roenicke said. “I don’t want to say what went on, but he’s in a place where he should be.” Brewers fans will be forgiven for wondering just how long he can stay there. Hierarchy change: John Axford to Closer, Jim Henderson to Set-up.
Seattle Mariners – Lucas Luetge got out of a jam in the 8th inning on Tuesday, then stayed on for the 9th in a four-run game. Luetge earned his 2nd save of the season because there were several runners on when he was summoned in the 8th– Tom Wilhelmsen’s job remains extremely safe. No hierarchy change.
San Diego Padres – Dale Thayer blew the save last night, and has now allowed runs in 2 of his 4 appearances since Huston Street hit the disabled list. If he blows another game, the Padres might give Luke Gregerson a shot at closing until Street returns. Dale Thayer to Hot Seat.
San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez picked up his second save in as many days, as the Giants again used him and Sergio Romo to get through the 9th. Jeremy Affeldt was warming in the bullpen and likely would’ve been summoned had Lopez not induced a double play to end the game. With the Giants still using a committee, any one of these three could get a save on any given night, though Affeldt remains the best bet. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Drew Storen, Washington Nationals – Tyler Clippard has pitched in three straight games.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 21, 2012
Seattle Mariners – Charlie Furbush, who came off the DL last week, pitched the 7th inning in a tie game on Monday, then stayed on for the 8th after the Mariners took the lead. Seattle has struggled to find a consistent 8th inning man ahead of Tom Wilhelmsen, but Furbush could become that guy. When healthy, he’s been very solid, posting a 2.03 ERA and 0.78 WHIP. Hierarchy change: Charlie Furbush to Set-up, Lucas Luetge to 2nd in line.
San Francisco Giants – Javier Lopez picked up a one-out save on Monday after Sergio Romo got the first two outs in the 9th. The Giants continue to use a closer-by-committee, with Jeremy Affeldt still the most likely candidate to get a save on any given night. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 20, 2012
Seattle Mariners – Josh Kinney picked up a 2.1 inning save on Sunday. He finished off the 7th inning in a one-run game, then stayed on for the last two innings after the Mariners scored three more runs. Kinney does not factor in to Seattle’s usual late-inning plans. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jonathan Broxton, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman has pitched in three straight.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 19, 2012
New York Mets – Over his last 21 appearances- a 15-inning stretch- Jon Rauch has only given up one earned run. He finished off the 8th inning last night, and coupled with his two bail-out saves of Frank Francisco earlier this week, he’s moved past Bobby Parnell on the Mets depth chart. Hierarchy change: Jon Rauch to Set-up, Bobby Parnell to 2nd in line.
San Francisco Giants – After Jeremy Affeldt gave up 2 runs while only recording 2 outs in the 9th inning on Saturday, he was yanked in favor of Clay Hensley, who got the last out for his 3rd save of the season. Hensley doesn’t factor in to the usual late-inning plans for San Francisco, but with the Giants already using a committee of Affeldt, Sergio Romo, and Javier Lopez, this outing is enough to potentially cost Affeldt future save chances. Jeremy Affeldt to Hot Seat.
Los Angeles Angels – Scott Downs was activated from the DL on Saturday. Downs, who has 9 saves on the season, should return to his old set-up role and may occasionally see a save chance as he did before. Hierarchy change: Scott Downs to Set-up, Kevin Jepsen to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Ryan Cook, Oakland A’s – Grant Balfour has pitched in three straight games.
2. Jonathan Broxton, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman has pitched in back-to-back games. The Reds have been trying to protect his arm and have only used him in three straight twice all season.
3. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 18, 2012
Pittsburgh Pirates – Juan Cruz, who returned from the DL a week ago, pitched in the 7th inning last night. Cruz should return to that role on a regular basis, especially given how shaky Chad Qualls has been lately. Hierarchy change: Juan Cruz to 2nd in line, replacing Chad Qualls.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 17, 2012
Miami Marlins – Heath Bell pitched the 8th while Steve Cishek got the save in the 9th. A little over a week ago Manager Ozzie Guillen said that Bell would get another chance to close this season. However since those comments Bell has been used in the 7th inning once and 8th inning three times so Guillen has not been saving him for a possible save in the 9th. Cishek has pitched well as the closer and should continue in that role. Hierarchy change: Steve Cishek to Closer, Heath Bell to Set-up.
New York Mets – Jon Rauch again bailed out Frank Francisco in the 9th, retiring the only batter he faced for his third save of the season. Francisco remains on the Hot Seat, and could start losing save chances to Bobby Parnell if he doesn’t get his act together quick. No hierarchy change.
Oakland A’s – Jerry Blevins picked up his 9th hold of the season, pitching parts of the 7th and 8th innings ahead of Ryan Cook and Grant Balfour. Cook has now had scoreless outings since being demoted, and if Bob Melvin was serious about Cook’s demotion being temporary, then the young righty could win the job back soon. Grant Balfour, through no fault of his own, is now on notice. Hierarchy change: Jerry Blevins to 2nd in line, replacing Pat Neshek. Grant Balfour to Hot Seat.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 16, 2012
Boston Red Sox – Before Vicente Padilla hit the DL, Andrew Miller was often the man who was summoned just ahead of him, as Bobby Valentine counted on the hard-throwing lefty to get key outs late in the game. But oddly, that’s changed over the past week, as Miller’s last three appearances have seen him pitch in the 6th inning or earlier. Andrew Bailey has thrown only 13 pitches in the big leagues so far this year, but given Miller’s recent usage, the righty would probably be thrust right into the closer role if Alfredo Aceves was unavailable. Hierarchy change: Andrew Bailey to Set-up, Andrew Miller to 2nd in line.
Milwaukee Brewers – Jim Henderson blew his second straight save on Wednesday, the 23rd blown save for the Brewers bullpen overall. Ron Roenicke didn’t say anything about the closer role after the game, so Henderson remains on the Hot Seat and virtually anyone is a decent candidate for the next save. Henderson and John Axford remain the best bets to seize the role for a significant period. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joel Peralta/Kyle Farnsworth, Tampa Bay Rays – Fernando Rodney pitched four straight days from Saturday to Tuesday and may be given a second day off to recover. Joel Peralta also pitched four straight, so Kyle Farnsworth could also get a save chance.
August 15, 2012
Boston Red Sox – Andrew Bailey returned from the disabled list on Tuesday, striking out one of the two hitters he faced. Bailey had solid minor league numbers in his rehab appearances, and if he pitches well, he should rise quickly in the Red Sox bullpen. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see him closing by the end of the year. Hierarchy change: Andrew Bailey to 2nd in line, replacing Mark Melancon.
Seattle Mariners – Stephen Pryor pitched a clean 1.2 innings last night, earning the win when the Mariners walked off against Fernando Rodney. The young righty has only allowed 1 run in 10 appearances this season (0.84 ERA) and has 15 Ks and only 3 BBs. Hierarchy change: Stephen Pryor to 2nd in line, replacing Josh Kinney.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Kyle Farnsworth, Tampa Bay Rays – Both Fernando Rodney and Joel Peralta have pitched in four straight games.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 14, 2012
New York Yankees – Derek Lowe, just signed by the Yankees, picked up his first save since 2001, pitching the last four innings in an 8-2 victory for New York. Lowe does not factor in to the Yankees usual late-inning plans. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Kyle Farnsworth, Tampa Bay Rays – Both Fernando Rodney and Joel Peralta have pitched in three straight games.
2. Jonathan Broxton, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman pitched in three straight games over the weekend. Though the Reds were off yesterday, they’ve been especially careful with their young phenom’s arm– he’d pitched in three straight just once before all season– and he could be given a second day off to recover.
3. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 13, 2012
Milwaukee Brewers – Kameron Loe picked up his first save of the season as Ron Roenicke continues to follow through on his threat that everyone in the Brewers bullpen will get a shot at closing. Jim Henderson is still the best bet for saves moving on, but Loe should now be on fantasy radars. Hierarchy change: Kameron Loe to 2nd in line, replacing Francisco Rodriguez.
Miami Marlins – Prior to Sunday, Heath Bell had only given up 1 run since the All Star break, and he had lowered his ghastly ERA by nearly a point and a half. Ozzie Guillen had been impressed enough to say earlier this week that he’d be giving Bell another shot at closing. The Marlins haven’t had a save chance since Guillen made his declaration, but in the 8th inning on Sunday, Bell took a major step back, allowing 4 earned runs while only recording 1 out. Despite Guillen’s plans for Bell, Steve Cishek is now a great bet to get the next save opp. No hierarchy change.
Arizona Diamondbacks – Matt Albers, acquired in the Craig Breslow deal, pitched a clean 8th inning with the Diamondbacks leading by five runs. Takashi Saito came on for the 9th and gave up two runs before JJ Putz came on to bail him out. Saito’s ERA climbed to 6.14 with the bad outing, while Albers is yet to give up a run in the NL. Hierarchy change: Matt Albers to 2nd in line, replacing Takashi Saito.
New York Mets – Jon Rauch picked up his second save of the season, bailing out both Josh Edgin and Frank Francisco, who couldn’t combine to get three outs in what was initially a blowout. The Mets have already said that Bobby Parnell could get some save opps while Francisco regains his strength, and this outing makes Parnell all the more appealing. Frank Francisco to Hot Seat.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 12, 2012
Milwaukee Brewers – A day after inheriting the closer job from a struggling John Axford, Jim Henderson took the loss for the Brewers on Saturday night. He came on in the 9th inning and struck out the side, but then couldn’t find the plate in the 10th, as all four runners he faced reached base. Given the volatility of the Brewers bullpen and Ron Roenicke’s recent tendency to try anyone and everyone in the closer role, this outing is enough to put Henderson on notice. Jim Henderson to Hot Seat.
Miami Marlins – Since Heath Bell supposedly regained his closer job a few days ago, the Marlins haven’t had a save opportunity. But even if they’d had one last night (they ended up winning by four), it wouldn’t have gone to Bell, who pitched in the 8th inning with the Marlins up by two runs. While this could’ve been a final tuneup before he re-enters the closer role, Steve Cishek is still certainly worth holding on to until Ozzie Guillen proves that he meant what he said earlier this week. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jonathan Broxton, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman has pitched in back to back games, and the Reds have used him thrice in a row only once all season.
2. Wesley Wright/Fernando Rodriguez, Houston Astros – Wilton Lopez threw 40 pitches over two innings on Saturday, his second consecutive night of work. The Astros could play match-ups to determine their closer tonight.
3. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 11, 2012
Oakland A’s – Bob Melvin has removed Ryan Cook from the closer role, saying he wanted to use the rookie in lower-pressure situations. Melvin emphasized that the move may not be permanent, but that he’d go with a closer-by-committee for the time being. Grant Balfour got the save on Saturday after Cook pitched in the 7th and 8th, and Balfour is the best short-term (and possibly long-term) option for saves at this point. Hierarchy change: Grant Balfour to Closer, Ryan Cook to Set-up.
(UPDATED 5:35 PM EDT) San Diego Padres – Huston Street took his 21 1/3-inning scoreless streak to the disabled list today after straining his calf on the final play of last night’s game. Bud Black offered three options to the San Diego Union-Tribune last night: a return to Dale Thayer, an elevation of Luke Gregerson, or the dreaded “closer-by-committee.” Although Gregerson has the best numbers in the Padres pen, it seems most likely that Black will keep him in the set-up role and go back to Thayer come the 9th. Hierarchy change: Huston Street to DL, Dale Thayer to Closer, Brad Brach to 2nd in Line.
Milwaukee Brewers – John Axford blew his 8th save of the season last night. After the game manager Ron Roenicke said that Jim Henderson was only guy in the bullpen pitching well, and also went on to say about Henderson, “We’ll give the ball to him and see what happens there.” Henderson will get a chance to close and could very well hold the job for the rest of the season if he continues to convert his chances. Hierarchy change: Jim Henderson to Closer, John Axford to Set-up.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Luke Gregerson, San Diego Padres – Bud Black left open the possibility of Gregerson moving to the closer role instead of Thayer.
2. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde has pitched in two straight and four of the last five.
3. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 10, 2012
Miami Marlins – Just a day after Ozzie Guillen said that Heath Bell would be moved back in to the closer role, he sent Bell out for the 7th inning with the Marlins losing by two runs. Guillen saying one thing and then doing another is certainly nothing new, so Bell’s usage over the next few days will determine whether he has actually regained the job. No hierarchy change.
Pittsburgh Pirates – With the Pirates down by 1 run in the 7th, they went to Jared Hughes, who got knocked around and was unable to escape the inning. The Pirates traded for Chad Qualls at the deadline, and used him in the 8th inning ahead of Joel Hanrahan on Wednesday; he’s now ahead of Hughes on the depth chart. Hierarchy change: Chad Qualls to 2nd in line, replacing Jared Hughes.
Detroit Tigers – Octavio Dotel got the last two outs of the 7th inning on Thursday two days after he earned an 8th inning hold. The veteran has been used in higher-leverage spots than Phil Coke in recent weeks. Hierarchy change: Octavio Dotel to 2nd in line, replacing Phil Coke.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 9, 2012
Milwaukee Brewers – Jim Henderson picked up his second save in as many days on Wednesday, leading many to anoint him the new Milwaukee closer. But there’s been no word on the 9th inning role from Ron Roenicke since before the game on Wednesday, when he told the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel that “We can work them both in,” referring to Henderson and John Axford. For his part, Axford has been much better of late– he earned the win by pitching a scoreless 8th inning last night– so the next save chance will be key. If Henderson gets the call, he becomes the favorite as the reliever most likely to earn saves the rest of the year; anyone else, and Axford is still the best bet. No hierarchy change.
Boston Red Sox – Vicente Padilla hit the DL this week, making hard-throwing lefty Andrew Miller the best option for saves on nights when Alfredo Aceves is unavailable. Mark Melancon, who has a 4.09 ERA since returning the majors in June, is the only active Red Sox reliever to have earned a hold this week, and he moves up as well. Hierarchy change: Andrew Miller to Set-up, Mark Melancon to 2nd in line, Vicente Padilla to DL.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Aaron Crow, Kansas City Royals – Greg Holland has pitched in two straight, and has pitched 4.0 innings over the last four days.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 8, 2012
Miami Marlins – Ozzie Guillen said before Wednesday’s game that Heath Bell would be moved back into the closer role. “We’re going to give him another opportunity,” said Guillen to several media outlets. Steve Cishek has pitched quite well since taking over the role, and with Guillen also saying that he reserved the right to use other relievers in the 9th, Bell will begin immediately on the Hot Seat. But, in a rather stunning move, he’s back in as the Marlins’ closer. Hierarchy change: Heath Bell to Closer, Steve Cishek to Set-up.
San Francisco Giants – Jeremy Affeldt just picked up his 3rd save of the season, and is a good bet to continue getting save chances for the Giants. Bruce Bochy said that the acquisition of Jose Mijares allowed him to move Affeldt into a full-fledged committee with Sergio Romo and Javier Lopez. Casilla will not be part of the mix, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. Romo is still being held out of back-to-back action for the most part as he recovers from several long-term injuries and Lopez is more of a LOOGY type who will be situational at best. That leaves Affeldt, who has been steady and solid for the Giants all season. Hierarchy change: Jeremy Affeldt to Closer, Sergio Romo to Set-up, Javier Lopez to 2nd in line.
Milwaukee Brewers – Jim Henderson picked up his first big league save on Tuesday night, pitching a 1-2-3 inning. John Axford had thrown 29 pitches the night before, but the outing for Henderson was also well-deserved– the 29-year-old rookie now has a 1.50 ERA. Axford is still the best bet to emerge from the Brewers’ closer-by-committee, but Tuesday’s outing is a precursor for a more regular high-leverage role for Henderson. Hierarchy change: Jim Henderson to Set-up, Francisco Rodriguez to 2nd in line.
Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek has been rock solid of late, and has gotten all but one of the save chances for the Marlins since the demotion of Heath Bell. Bell, however, has also pitched well recently, and was used to finish off the 8th inning ahead of Cishek on Tuesday. Hierarchy change: Heath Bell to Set-up, Mike Dunn to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Sean Burnett, Washington Nationals – Tyler Clippard has pitched two nights in a row, throwing a total of pitches, and has pitched in five of the last six.
2. Vinnie Pestano, Cleveland Indians – Chris Perez blew his second consecutive save on Tuesday, and has now thrown 61 pitches over the past three days. His job is not in jeopardy yet, but he could get a day off to clear his head.
3. Dale Thayer, San Diego Padres – Both Huston Street and Luke Gregerson have pitched in three straight, and in four of the last five.
4. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 7, 2012
New York Yankees – On Monday, in his second big-league appearance of the year, Joba Chamberlain pitched 1.2 scoreless innings. Chamberlain was dominant in his rehab outings, logging a 0.96 ERA, 10 Ks and only 1 BB. Once he gets his feet under him in the big leagues, the Yankees are certain to use him in some high-leverage late-inning spots. Hierarchy change: Joba Chamberlain to 2nd in line, replacing Boone Logan.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Pedro Strop, Baltimore Orioles – Jim Johnson has pitched in three straight.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 6, 2012
Washington Nationals – As expected, Tyler Clippard had the day off on Sunday, but it was Drew Storen who got the save chance in his place, while Sean Burnett pitched the 8th. Burnett has been excellent all season, but the Nats may be trying to use Storen similarly to how the Rangers are using Alexi Ogando– having him get tough outs whenever necessary and fill in for the closer on occasion, while leaving their 8th inning role consistent. As a result, Storen is probably now the next-best bet for saves in Washington. Hierarchy change: Drew Storen to Set-up, Sean Burnett to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Vicente Padilla, Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves has pitched two nights in a row and three of the last four, throwing 69 pitches in the process.
2. Aaron Crow, Kansas City Royals – Greg Holland pitched two innings last night, throwing 46 pitches.
3. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 5, 2012
Oakland A’s – Ryan Cook on Saturday blew his second save in a row and his fourth in his last six chances. He’s now got 7 blown saves on the year, which leads the league, and could be in danger of losing his job to former closer Grant Balfour. On the other end of the bullpen, Pat Neshek, called up two days ago, has not allowed a hit in 3 innings while striking out 4, and earned his first hold of the season last night. Hierarchy change: Pat Neshek to 2nd in line, replacing Sean Doolittle. Ryan Cook to Hot Seat.
Texas Rangers – A little over a week ago, reports emerged that the Rangers were trying to stretch Alexi Ogando out, and they seemed validated when Ogando was used for 2.2 innings nine days ago. But since then, he’s gone back to pitching 1 inning at a time, including last night, when he picked up his second save in a row (Joe Nathan needed a second day off after two marathon outings on Thursday and Friday). While Mike Adams will stick as the 8th inning guy regardless, Ogando appears to be the man the Rangers will use when Nathan is unavailable. Hierarchy change: Alexi Ogando to Set-up, Mike Adams to 2nd in line.
Toronto Blue Jays – Darren Oliver picked up an 11th inning save on Saturday. Casey Janssen had already pitched earlier in the night. No hierarchy change.
Houston Astros – The Astros placed Francisco Cordero on the DL earlier this weekend, and last night, Fernando Rodriguez pitched the 7th inning ahead of Wesley Wright and Wilton Lopez. Lopez earned his first save. Hierarchy change: Fernando Rodriguez to 2nd in line, Francisco Cordero to DL.
Minnesota Twins – Jared Burton picked up his second save in as many days on Saturday. Glen Perkins had pitched the 8th inning in a game that had been tied at the time. The Twins are continuing to use Perkins and Burton in a platoon– Perkins now has 6 saves and Burton has 5– though Perkins still has a slight edge due to his durability and strikeout rate. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Bobby Parnell, New York Mets – Frank Francisco earned his first save Saturday since coming off the DL. But his ability to pitch on back-to-back days is in question, and the Mets said that Bobby Parnell will get any save opps when Francisco can’t go.
2. Jonathan Broxton, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman has pitched in two consecutive games. He’s only pitched three in a row once all season, so Broxton will likely get the save chance today.
3. Grant Balfour, Oakland A’s – Ryan Cook has pitched in three straight.
4. Sean Burnett, Washington Nationals – Tyler Clippard has pitched in three straight.
5. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever match-ups are right.
August 4, 2012
Texas Rangers – Joe Nathan was given a day off on Friday, but it was Alexi Ogando, not Mike Adams, who picked up the save in his stead– Adams pitched in his usual 8th inning role. However, the Rangers are reportedly looking to stretch Ogando out and return him to the rotation in the not-too-distant future, so Adams is still the guy most likely to see save chances on nights that Nathan is unavailable. No hierarchy change.
Minnesota Twins – Jared Burton picked up the save on Friday. As noted in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch, Glen Perkins had pitched 2 innings the previous night. While this is still a platoon, Perkins is still the most likely candidate for a save on any given night. No hierarchy change.
1. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity tonight, as Perkins pitched 2 innings on Thursday.
August 3, 2012
New York Mets – Frank Francisco is expected to be activated from the DL today. Bobby Parnell has been OK, but not great, in his place, so Francisco should resume closing immediately. Hierarchy change: Frank Francisco to Closer, Bobby Parnell to Set-up, Jon Rauch to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Mike Adams, Texas Rangers – Joe Nathan has had two laborious outings over the last two days, allowing 4 ERs in 2 innings and throwing 62 pitches in the process. His job is not in jeopardy, but he’ll likely get a night off tonight.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves overall, Jared Burton could get an opportunity tonight, as Perkins pitched 2 innings on Thursday.
August 2, 2012
Philadelphia Phillies – The Phillies picked up Josh Lindblom in the Shane Victorino trade, and proved they would use him in tight spots immediately. He was one of three relievers to record an out in the 8th to bridge the gap to Jonathan Papelbon. Hierarchy change: Josh Lindblom to 2nd in line, replacing Jake Diekman.
Cincinnati Reds – In Wednesday’s game, the Reds used newly-acquired Jonathan Broxton for the 8th inning after Sean Marshall pitched the 7th. It appears Broxton is now the man to get saves on days when Aroldis Chapman is unavailable. Hierarchy change: Jonathan Broxton to Set-up, Sean Marshall to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jonathan Broxton, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman has pitched in two games in a row. The Reds have been reluctant to pitch him three consecutive nights (they’ve done so only once all season), meaning Broxton could get his first save chance as a Red.
2. Kevin Jepsen, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri got knocked around last night, allowing 4 runs and throwing 26 pitches in the 9th and 10th innings. It was his second consecutive night of work, and he could get the day off.
3. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
August 1, 2012
Cincinnati Reds – The Reds acquired Royals closer Jonathan Broxton on Tuesday. Aroldis Chapman will remain the closer, while Broxton will share the 8th inning role with Sean Marshall. Hierarchy change: Jonathan Broxton to 2nd in line, replacing Logan Ondrusek.
St. Louis Cardinals – The Cardinals acquired Edward Mujica from the Miami Marlins on Tuesday. Mujica will likely pitch the 7th inning for the Cardinals, which is a role they’ve been trying to fill all season. Hierarchy change: Edward Mujica to 2nd in line, replacing Victor Marte.
Los Angeles Angels – Scott Downs was placed on the DL prior to Tuesday’s game. With a 4-run lead, Kevin Jepsen got out of a jam in the 7th inning before giving way to Jason Isringhausen for the 8th. Ernesto Frieri pitched the 9th in a non-save situation. Hierarchy change: Kevin Jepsen to Set-up, Jason Isringhausen to 2nd in line, Scott Downs to DL.
Boston Red Sox – Franklin Morales got a 1-out save in the 6th inning on Tuesday, retiring a hitter before the tarp came out. The game was never resumed, and Morales was awarded one of the more bogus saves of the season. No hierarchy change.
San Francisco Giants – After pitching three of the last four games, including a blown save on Monday, Santiago Casilla was given the night off. In a 3-run game, Jeremy Affeldt pitched the last two innings for his second save of the year. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
July 31, 2012
(UPDATED 3:42 PM EST) Kansas City Royals – The Royals have traded closer Jonathan Broxton to the Cincinnati Reds, where he will serve as a set-up man. Greg Holland will inherit the closer job in Kansas City, said Royals manager Ned Yost, though Aaron Crow will be nipping at Holland’s heels if he struggles. Hierarchy change: Greg Holland to Closer, Aaron Crow to Set-up, Kelvin Herrera to 2nd in line.
Los Angeles Angels – Jerome Williams pitched the last 4 innings of a blowout on Monday, earning his first save. Williams’s outing was pretty hideous (8 hits, 5 ERs), and he doesn’t factor in the the Angels usual late-inning plans. No hierarchy change.
Seattle Mariners – The Mariners traded set-up man Brandon League to the Dodgers early Tuesday morning. Lucas Luetge and Josh Kinney will now share 8th inning duties. With Tom Wilhelmsen getting a night off last night (his wife was expecting a child), Kinney and Luetge combined to get through the 9th inning, with Luetge picking up the one-out save. Hierarchy change: Lucas Luetge to Set-up, Josh Kinney to 2nd in line.
New York Mets – In a game with lots of bullpen ineptitude on both sides, Manny Acosta picked up a shaky save for the Mets in the 10th inning. Acosta does not fit in to the Mets usual late-inning plans; they’d already used all their top arms when they summoned him last night. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Lucas Luetge/Josh Kinney, Seattle Mariners – Tom Wilhelmsen’s wife just gave birth, so the Seattle closer may still be unavailable today.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
July 30, 2012
(UPDATED 11:13 PM EST) Houston Astros – Some speculated that Francisco Cordero’s decent outing on Sunday may have saved his job, but tonight, he was the first man out of the bullpen for the Astros. Coming on in the 7th inning, Cordero allowed an inherited runner to score, then gave up the tying run. He also pitched to one batter in the 8th, allowing a leadoff double, before being lifted and eventually taking the loss. Based on Cordero’s usage tonight, and his general awfulness in his return to the National League thus far, Wilton Lopez looks like he will finally get his shot to finish games. Hierarchy change: Wilton Lopez to Closer, Wesley Wright to Set-up, Francisco Cordero to 2nd in line.
Milwaukee Brewers – The Brewers bullpen had another meltdown on Sunday, and all of their top relievers were to blame; John Axford, Francisco Rodriguez, and Jose Veras all gave up multiple runs. Earlier this week, Ron Roenicke declared a closer-by-committee, with several Brewers beat writers thought Axford would quickly win his job back. He’s still likely to do so before the end of the season, but the Brewers may look elsewhere for saves in the near future. No hierarchy change.
Atlanta Braves – With Jonny Venters’ inconsistency and the team’s desire to stretch Kris Medlen out, the Braves have been searching for a steady 7th inning man all season. They may have found one in Chad Durbin, who after a rough start has allowed only 4 ERs in his last 28 innings, a span of 35 appearances. On Sunday, he bailed Venters out in the 6th inning and then stayed on for the 7th, recording his 10th hold of the year. Hierarchy change: Chad Durbin to 2nd in line, replacing Jonny Venters.
Minnesota Twins – Alex Burnett pitched the 7th inning on Sunday ahead of Jared Burton and Glen Perkins, earning his 7th hold of the season. Tyler Robertson has struggled as of late, giving up runs in his last three appearances. Hierarchy change: Alex Burnett to 2nd in line, replacing Tyler Robertson.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Vicente Padilla, Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves pitched 2.1 innings last night, his second night of work in a row.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
July 29, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Matt Thornton pitched the 9th inning in a four-run game yesterday, and has picked up two 7th-inning-or-later holds this week. Meanwhile, Jesse Crain has been a little shaky since returning from the DL, allowing 5 baserunners over 2.1 innings. Hierarchy change: Matt Thornton to 2nd in line, replacing Jesse Crain.
Pittsburgh Pirates – Jason Grilli picked up the save on Saturday. As noted in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch, Joel Hanrahan had pitched three days in a row. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Sean Marshall, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman has pitched in back to back games, and four of the last five.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
July 28, 2012
Los Angeles Angels – Hard-throwing righty Kevin Jepsen pitched the 7th inning last night, and he now has three holds and win this week, all pitching in the 7th inning or later. Jepsen has not allowed a single run since returning from the minors, a span of 11 appearances. Hierarchy change: Kevin Jepsen to 2nd in line, replacing LaTroy Hawkins.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Mitchell Boggs, St. Louis Cardinals – Jason Motte has pitched in three straight games, throwing 4 innings in the process.
2. Jason Grilli, Pittsburgh Pirates – Joel Hanrahan has pitched in three straight.
3. Pedro Strop, Baltimore Orioles – Jim Johnson had a brutal outing yesterday, giving up 6 ERs while only recording one out. His job is not in jeopardy, but he’s pitched two days in a row, throwing 42 pitches, and could be given the day off today.
4. Mike Dunn, Miami Marlins – The Marlins are employing a closer-by-committee and thus far, Steve Cishek has picked up two saves to Mike Dunn’s one. Cishek is still the best bet for a save on any given night, but Dunn could get the call if the Marlins are facing a lefty-heavy 9th inning.
5. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
July 27, 2012
Baltimore Orioles – Submariner Darren O’Day pitched the 7th inning last night, picking up his 6th hold of the year. He now has a 2.97 ERA and has been pitching in higher-leverage spots than Matt Lindstrom as of late. Hierarchy change: Darren O’Day to 2nd in line, replacing Matt Lindstrom.
Milwaukee Brewers – Ron Roenicke said on Thursday that the Brewers would go with a closer-by-committee for the time being. John Axford has pitched well since being removed from the role earlier this summer, and should easily win the job back if he continues to dominate. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Mike Dunn, Miami Marlins – The Marlins are employing a closer-by-committee and thus far, Steve Cishek has picked up two saves to Mike Dunn’s one. Cishek is still the best bet for a save on any given night, but Dunn could get the call if the Marlins are facing a lefty-heavy 9th inning.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
July 26, 2012
Houston Astros – Francisco Cordero blew his second save in two days, making him 0/2 since joining the Astros. After the game, Brad Mills did not say he was removing Cordero from the closer role, only saying that Cordero would not close on Thursday because he’d thrown a lot of pitches over the previous two days. Cordero remains on the Hot Seat at best, and could be removed from the role entirely soon. If that happens, Wilton Lopez would take over in the 9th. No hierarchy change.
Pittsburgh Pirates – Jared Hughes pitched the 7th inning in a 1-run game on Wednesday, notching his 9th hold. The righty now has a 1.90 ERA and has picked up three holds this week. Hierarchy change: Jared Hughes to 2nd in line, replacing Brad Lincoln.
Atlanta Braves – Jonny Venters pitched a scoreless 9th inning for the Braves last night. Kris Medlen was also stellar, throwing 3 clean innings with five strikeouts, but the Braves are looking to stretch him out so he can be a starter down the line. Hierarchy change: Jonny Venters to 2nd in line, replacing Kris Medlen.
(UPDATED 7/25 5:54 PM EST) Milwaukee Brewers – Francisco Rodriguez just blew his second save in three days, prompting manager Ron Roenicke to say about the closer role: “We’ll talk about it… Tomorrow, we’ll see what we’re going to do.” While Roenicke wasn’t entirely committal, many Brewers beat writers have already predicted that John Axford, who threw 2 perfect innings with 3 Ks today, will be given the 9th-inning job back tomorrow. Hierarchy change: John Axford to Closer, Francisco Rodriguez to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Wilton Lopez, Houston Astros – Francisco Cordero has thrown 57 pitches over the past two days and will have the day off today.
July 25, 2012
New York Mets – Pedro Beato was one of the Mets’ best relievers in 2011, but he started this year on the disabled list, and hasn’t been the same. After being called up two weeks ago, Beato has struggled and was sent back down on Tuesday. There is almost nothing to like about the Mets bullpen right now, but youngster Josh Edgin has been a bright spot as of late. He now has 13 Ks in just 7 innings after a 3-strikeout outing last night. Hierarchy change: Josh Edgin to 2nd in line, replacing Pedro Beato.
Houston Astros – When the Astros named Francisco Cordero closer, Wilton Lopez owners groaned, rightfully saying that the youngster was a significantly better pitcher than the 37-year-old righty. But Lopez owners may get their wish soon, as Cordero got shelled in his first save opportunity as Astro, allowing three runs and five baserunners before getting yanked. Francisco Cordero to Hot Seat.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Mike Dunn, Miami Marlins – The Marlins are employing a closer-by-committee and thus far, Steve Cishek has picked up two saves to Mike Dunn’s one. Cishek is still the best bet for a save on any given night, but Dunn could get the call if the Marlins are facing a lefty-heavy 9th inning.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
July 24, 2012
Milwaukee Brewers – Francisco Rodriguez blew his first save since inheriting the closer job, but did so in spectacular fashion, allowing four runs to score. If he falters again, John Axford could get his old job back. Francisco Rodriguez to Hot Seat.
Los Angeles Angels – Scott Downs picked up his 9th save of the season on Monday. With one of the strongest bullpens in the bigs, the Angels have the luxury of continuing their pseudo-platoon to keep both Ernesto Frieri and Scott Downs fresh. Frieri will still get the great majority of opportunities, however. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Mike Dunn, Miami Marlins – The Marlins are employing a closer-by-committee and thus far, Steve Cishek has picked up two saves to Mike Dunn’s one. Cishek is still the best bet for a save on any given night, but Dunn could get the call if the Marlins are facing a lefty-heavy 9th inning.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
July 23, 2012
Boston Red Sox – Mark Melancon got shelled yesterday, and has looked shaky recently after a great return from the minor leagues. Hard thrower Andrew Miller has been the much more consistent reliever lately, and now sports a 2.74 ERA. Hierarchy change: Andrew Miller to 2nd in line, replacing Mark Melancon.
Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde experienced some back tightness before Sunday’s game, so he was held out of action, but manager Jim Leyland said the injury was not serious. Joaquin Benoit got the save in his place. No hierarchy change.
Arizona Diamondbacks – After notching a couple of saves early in the season, Bryan Shaw has struggled in recent weeks, and on Sunday, the Diamondbacks sent him to the minors. Fortunately, for Arizona, Takashi Saito recently came off the disabled list and will pitch in the 7th inning for the time being. Hierarchy change: Takashi Saito to 2nd in line, replacing Bryan Shaw.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Luke Gregerson, San Diego Padres – Huston Street has pitched in three straight.
2. Brandon League, Seattle Mariners – Tom Wilhelmsen has pitched in three straight.
3. Pedro Strop, Baltimore Orioles – Jim Johnson has pitched in two straight games, and four of the last five.
4. Mike Dunn, Miami Marlins – The Marlins are employing a closer-by-committee and thus far, Steve Cishek and Mike Dunn have each picked up one save. Cishek is still the best bet for a save on any given night, but Dunn could get the call if the Marlins are facing a lefty-heavy 9th inning.
5. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
July 22, 2012
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox acquired Brett Myers from the Astros on Saturday, but Addison Reed will keep his job for the time being, said White Sox GM Kenny Williams. Myers will pitch in a set-up role and will get save chances on nights when Reed is unavailable. Also on Saturday, Jesse Crain returned from the disabled list. He, too, will factor in the late innings for the White Sox. Hierarchy change: Brett Myers to Set-up, Jesse Crain to 2nd in line.
Kansas City Royals – Aaron Crow pitched the 8th inning with the Royals up by 2 runs, then stayed on for the 9th after the Royals stretched their lead. Despite earning his second save of the year, he’s still behind Greg Holland on the Royals depth chart. No hierarchy change.
Pittsburgh Pirates – Brad Lincoln was summoned in the 8th inning with the Pirates up by 4 runs and several runners on base. He got out of the jam, then stayed on for the 9th to record his first save of the season. Lincoln won’t often get a save chance, but with Juan Cruz recently hitting the DL, he will play an increasingly important role in the Pirates bullpen. Hierarchy change: Brad Lincoln to 2nd in line, replacing Juan Cruz.
Oakland A’s – With Ryan Cook getting the night off after pitching three games in a row, the A’s went to Sean Doolittle, who pitched a clean 9th inning for his first save. The hard-throwing lefty now has 29 strikeouts in 19.1 innings and has surpassed Jerry Blevins on the depth chart. Hierarchy change: Sean Doolittle to 2nd in line, replacing Jerry Blevins.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Ronald Belisario, Los Angeles Dodgers – Kenley Jansen has pitched in the last two games, and four of the past five.
2. Drew Storen, Washington Nationals – Both Tyler Clippard and Sean Burnett have pitched in the last two games, and four of the last five.
3. Mike Dunn, Miami Marlins – The Marlins are employing a closer-by-committee and thus far, Steve Cishek and Mike Dunn have each picked up one save. Cishek is still the best bet for a save on any given night, but Dunn could get the call if the Marlins are facing a lefty-heavy 9th inning.
4. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
July 21, 2012
(UPDATED 3:58 PM. UPDATED AGAIN 6:48 PM) Houston Astros – The Astros have traded Brett Myers to the Chicago White Sox. Saturday evening, Astros GM Brad Mills told an MLB.com reporter that Francisco Cordero will close. Wilton Lopez will continue on in his set-up role. Hierarchy change: Francisco Cordero to Closer, Wilton Lopez to Set-up, Wesley Wright to 2nd in line.
Toronto Blue Jays – The Blue Jays picked up three pitchers from the Houston Astros in a 10-player trade on Thursday including Brandon Lyon, who will likely serve as a 7th inning guy ahead of Darren Oliver and Casey Janssen. Hierarchy change: Brandon Lyon to 2nd in line, replacing Jason Frasor.
Houston Astros – The Astros acquired Francisco Cordero from the Toronto Blue Jays in a 10-player trade on Thursday. Cordero becomes an interesting player to watch, as he’ll likely assume the set-up role immediately, and could ascend to the closer spot if Brett Myers is dealt. Hierarchy change: Francisco Cordero to Set-up, Wilton Lopez to 2nd in line.
Los Angeles Dodgers – Javy Guerra finished off the 7th inning, and has worked his way back in to a late-innings role for the Dodgers. Josh Lindblom has struggled as of late, including on Friday, when he allowed three baserunners while only recording one out in the 6th inning. Hierarchy change: Javy Guerra to 2nd in line, replacing Josh Lindblom.
Washington Nationals – Tyler Clippard blew the save last night, and has now allowed 7 ERs in his last 3 outings, a span that includes two blown saves. Sean Burnett and Drew Storen also had rough nights, but Clippard’s recent stretch is worrying, and the Nats have plenty of live arms in their bullpen who could be inserted into the closer role if he continues to struggle. Tyler Clippard to Hot Seat.
Atlanta Braves – Chad Durbin picked up an 11th inning save on Friday after the Braves had exhausted much of the rest of their bullpen. Durbin does not figure in to their usual late inning plans. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Grant Balfour, Oakland A’s – Ryan Cook has pitched in three straight games.
2. Kris Medlen, Atlanta Braves – Both Craig Kimbrel and Eric O’Flaherty have pitched in three straight.
3. Mike Dunn, Miami Marlins – The Marlins are employing a closer-by-committee and thus far, Steve Cishek and Mike Dunn have each picked up one save. Cishek is still the best bet for a save on any given night, but Dunn could get the call if the Marlins are facing a lefty-heavy 9th inning.
4. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
July 20, 2012
Washington Nationals – Drew Storen returned from the disabled list on Thursday, pitching a clean 9th inning in a game the Nationals were losing. He immediately factors back in to the Nats’ late-inning plans, though he’s a longshot to win his closer job back this season. Hierarchy change: Drew Storen to 2nd in line, replacing Henry Rodriguez.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. John Axford/Jose Veras, Milwaukee Brewers – Prior to the Brewers’ day off yesterday, Francisco Rodriguez had pitched in four straight games, throwing 73 pitches in the process. He may need a second day off to recover.
2. Mike Dunn, Miami Marlins – The Marlins are employing a closer-by-committee and thus far, Steve Cishek and Mike Dunn have each picked up one save. Cishek is still the best bet for a save on any given night, but Dunn could get the call if the Marlins are facing a lefty-heavy 9th inning.
3. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
July 19, 2012
San Francisco Giants – Santiago Casilla continues to struggle, allowing two runs in the 10th inning last night before being bailed out by the Giants’ offense the next inning. He’s now blown 5 of his last 8 saves and remains firmly on the Hot Seat, as the Giants are reportedly testing the trade market for relievers. “We need him whether we make an adjustment or not,” Bruce Bochy told the San Francisco Chronicle. “I can’t answer that now. But there comes a time with every player when you have to change it up.” Despite the demands from fans, it’s still unlikely that Sergio Romo becomes a full-time closer this year, as the Giants don’t want him to pitch too frequently for fear he re-aggravates an injury. If Casilla is demoted, however, Romo could share the 9th inning role with Jeremy Affeldt. No hierarchy change.
Seattle Mariners – Charlie Furbush was placed on the DL yesterday with a strained triceps. Lefthander Lucas Luetge (1.46 ERA) will move into Furbush’s late-inning role. Hierarchy change: Lucas Luetge to 2nd in line, Charlie Furbush to DL.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Sean Burnett, Washington Nationals – Tyler Clippard has given up three HRs and 5 ERs over the last two days. His job is not in jeopardy yet, but he could be given the day off today.
2. Sergio Romo/Jeremy Affeldt, San Francisco Giants – After Casilla’s latest outing, he may be given the day off today. Sergio Romo or Jeremy Affeldt would be candidates to clos ein his place.
3. Mike Dunn, Miami Marlins – The Marlins are employing a closer-by-committee and thus far, Steve Cishek and Mike Dunn have each picked up one save. Cishek is still the best bet for a save on any given night, but Dunn could get the call if the Marlins are facing a lefty-heavy 9th inning.
4. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
July 18, 2012
Texas Rangers – Alexi Ogando returned from the DL and was placed back in to the bullpen, where he will remain for the foreseeable future. He pitched 0.2 innings yesterday and will be used in a late-innings role, as he was before. Hierarchy change: Alexi Ogando to 2nd in line, replacing Tanner Scheppers.
Minnesota Twins – Before Tuesday’s game, the Twins said Matt Capps would be unavailable due to a strained shoulder; then, in the wee hours this morning, they put him back on the DL. Glen Perkins and Jared Burton will resume their closer-by-committee in the mean time. Burton got the save last night. Hierarchy change: Glen Perkins to Closer, Jared Burton to Set-up, Tyler Robertson to 2nd in line, Matt Capps to DL.
Milwaukee Brewers – Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said before Tuesday’s game that John Axford would be relieved of his closing duties for the time being. Francisco Rodriguez will inherit the 9th inning role, effective immediately. Hierarchy change: Francisco Rodriguez to Closer, John Axford to Set-up.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. John Axford/Jose Veras, Milwaukee Brewers – Francisco Rodriguez has pitched in three straight games.
2. Sean Marshall, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman got the save last night, and has pitched in four of the last five games.
3. David Robertson, New York Yankees – Rafael Soriano has pitched on back to back days, and in four of the last five.
4. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Through Monday, Jose Valverde pitched in four straight and could conceivably be given a second day off today.
5. Mike Dunn, Miami Marlins – The Marlins are employing a closer-by-committee and thus far, Steve Cishek and Mike Dunn have each picked up one save. Cishek is still the best bet for a save on any given night, but Dunn could get the call if the Marlins are facing a lefty-heavy 9th inning.
6. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – The Twins are employing a committee, and while Glen Perkins remains the best bet for saves, Jared Burton could get an opportunity whenever the Twins are facing a righty-heavy lineup.
July 17, 2012
Houston Astros – Wilton Lopez has returned from the disabled list and resumed his 8th inning duties on Monday, throwing a clean inning on Monday ahead of Brett Myers. Lopez could get save chances if and when the Astros deal Brett Myers. Hierarchy change: Wilton Lopez to Set-up, Brandon Lyon to 2nd in line.
New York Mets – Frank Francisco had a setback in his rehab and will take a few days off before attempting to throw again. Bobby Parnell remains the team’s closer for the foreseeable future. No hierarchy change.
Miami Marlins – Mike Dunn pitched the 9th inning on Monday to pick up his first save of the season. Heath Bell pitched a clean 8th inning, and is still potentially in the mix for saves, but Cishek and Dunn have gotten the first two opportunities since Ozzie Guillen installed a closer by committee. Hierarchy change: Mike Dunn to Set-up, Heath Bell to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde has pitched in four straight games.
2. Mike Dunn, Miami Marlins – The Marlins are employing a closer-by-committee and thus far, Steve Cishek and Mike Dunn have each picked up one save. Cishek is still the best bet for a save on any given night, but Dunn could get the call if the Marlins are facing a lefty-heavy 9th inning.
July 16, 2012
Toronto Blue Jays – Darren Oliver pitched the last two innings in a three-run game for the Jays last night, earning his first save of the season. Casey Janssen remains the team’s regular closer, and will maintain that role for the foreseeable future, as the Jays also announced Sunday that Sergio Santos would undergo season-ending surgery. No hierarchy change.
Los Angeles Angels – Both Ernesto Frieri and Scott Downs were unable to close the game out in the 9th inning against the Yankees on Sunday. After they combined to allow three runs and six baserunners, Kevin Jepsen got the game’s final out, retiring Alex Rodriguez to earn his first save of the season. Jepsen does not figure in to the Angels usual late-inning hierarchy. No hierarchy change.
Boston Red Sox – The Red Sox placed Scott Atchison on the DL on Sunday. After finishing the 7th and 8th innings on Sunday, Mark Melancon has given up just 1 run in 13.2 innings since returning from the minors. He has struck out 12 and walked only 2 in that span, and moves up in Atchison’s absence. Hierarchy change: Mark Melancon to 2nd in line, replacing Scott Atchison.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Sean Marshall, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman has pitched in three straight.
July 15, 2012
Kansas City Royals – Greg Holland has re-taken the lead as the Royals go-to set-up man, an important spot to watch, given the likelihood that Jonathan Broxton will be dealt. Holland helped to finish off the 7th, and then pitched the 8th inning for the second night in a row, earning the win. Hierarchy change: Greg Holland to Set-up, Aaron Crow to 2nd in line.
New York Mets – The Mets bullpen is a mess at the moment, but the recently returned Pedro Beato could help provide some stability. Beato was often used in the 8th inning last year, and could ease back in to a late inning role soon. Hierarchy change: Pedro Beato to 2nd in line, replacing Tim Byrdak.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Glen Perkins, Minnesota Twins – Ron Gardenhire said he wanted to give Matt Capps one or two lower-pressure roles before re-inserting him as closer. Capps got one such appearance yesterday, pitching the 8th inning in a blowout, but if the Twins want to hold him out of the 9th inning for another day, Glen Perkins will get the save chance.
July 14, 2012
Minnesota Twins – The Twins activated Matt Capps from the DL. He will resume closing immediately, as the Twins are hoping to build his value so they can deal him. Hierarchy change: Matt Capps to Closer, Glen Perkins to Set-up, Jared Burton to 2nd in line.
Atlanta Braves – Kris Medlen pitched two solid innings in relief yesterday, striking out 3 without allowing a hit. Even once Jonny Venters returns from injury, Medlen may remain ahead of him on the depth chart. Kris Medlen to 2nd in line, replacing Jonny Venters.
July 13, 2012
SPECIAL UPDATE: TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL (PART 2 OF 2)
Glossary
BUY+: This player has a large chance of becoming a closer by the trade deadline.
BUY: This player has a small chance of becoming a closer by the trade deadline.
SELL: This player has a small chance of losing his closer job by the trade deadline.
SELL+: This player has a large chance of losing his closer job by the trade deadline.
TLDR Version
BUY+: Aaron Crow, Glen Perkins.
BUY: Greg Holland, Jared Burton, Grant Balfour, Brandon League, Charlie Furbush
SELL: Addison Reed, Tom Wilhelmsen
SELL+: Jonathan Broxton, Matt Capps
Baltimore Orioles – The Orioles bullpen has been spectacular, top to bottom, thus far this year. Jim Johnson and Pedro Strop have been solid in their roles, and the Orioles are unlikely to seek any help at the deadline. They’re leading the race for the second Wild Card and aren’t going to be selling, either. BUY/SELL: None.
Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves and Vicente Padilla are both playing out 1-year contracts, but it’s unlikely the Red Sox will be selling at the deadline– despite being tied for last place in the AL East, they’re still well within range of a Wild Card spot. Despite some early struggles, Aceves and Padilla have been solid at the back end of the Sox rotation, and an acquisition is unlikely to affect the immediate hierarchy. Daniel Bard, returned to a relief role, could potentially shake things up if they struggle, however. BUY/SELL: None.
New York Yankees – Rafael Soriano has been rock solid since taking over the 9th inning, while David Robertson has continued to be spectacular in any role other than closer. Any acquisitions the Yankees make are unlikely to affect their hierarchy. BUY/SELL: None.
Tampa Bay Rays – Fernando Rodney’s dominance has been one of the biggest surprises of the season, and with Kyle Farnsworth recently returned from the DL, the Rays are unlikely to add any bullpen arms. BUY/SELL: None.
Toronto Blue Jays – Whether the Blue Jays are buyers or sellers has been a topic of debate, with GM Alex Anthopolous saying earlier this month that they were buyers, while Buster Olney reported a few days later that other executives were expecting the Jays to sell. But even if they do sell, Casey Janssen has a 2-year deal and would likely be sticking around. And if they buy, they’ll probably look somewhere other than the bullpen, as they’ve got Sergio Santos returning soon. BUY/SELL: None.
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox are buying, and that’s potentially bad news for their solid, but young bullpen. They could look to acquire a veteran, and even though Addison Reed has only blown one save in 14 chances, the acquisition of a Huston Street or a Jonathan Broxton could mean Reed is pushed back to set-up duty. BUY: None. SELL: Addison Reed.
Cleveland Indians – The trade rumors surrounding the Indians have generally been centered on hitting, as they seem unlikely to be shopping for any relief help at the deadline. BUY/SELL: None.
Detroit Tigers – The Tigers are looking to buy, but like the Indians, they seem to be in the market for a bat, or possibly a starting pitcher. Jose Valverde and Joaquin Benoit have been solid at the back-end of the Tigers’ pen, and their hierarchy is unlikely to be affected by any deals. BUY/SELL: None.
Kansas City Royals – Jonathan Broxton is likely to move by the break, and will likely see his value drop if he goes to a contender that plugs him in to a set-up role. Certain to benefit, however, is Aaron Crow, or possibly Greg Holland, who would inherit the closer job if Broxton moves. BUY+: Aaron Crow. BUY: Greg Holland. SELL+: Jonathan Broxton.
Minnesota Twins – Once Matt Capps returns from the DL, the Twins will look to deal him. With his paltry strikeout rates, it’s unlikely that he would land anywhere where he could close, and his value will almost certainly plummet. Glen Perkins, who just signed a three-year extension, won’t be going anywhere and stands to continue getting saves. BUY+: Glen Perkins. BUY: Jared Burton. SELL+: Matt Capps.
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels have the best closer/set-up combo in the majors with Ernesto Frieri and Scott Downs. They’re leading the Wild Card race so are obviously not selling, and any acquisitions they make are unlikely to affect their hierarchy. BUY/SELL: None.
Oakland A’s – Ryan Cook isn’t going anywhere, but the A’s are actively looking to move Grant Balfour. If Balfour catches on with the right team– like the Mets, or possibly the Cardinals– he could be in the mix for saves. BUY: Grant Balfour. SELL: None.
Seattle Mariners – The Mariners are actively shopping Brandon League, but Tom Wilhelmsen’s name hasn’t surfaced in any reported trade talks thus far. Like most closers for bottom feeders, Wilhelmsen’s value will either drop sharply (if he’s traded to a team that uses him in the 8th inning) or rise slightly (if he’s able to close for a contender), making him a somewhat scary fantasy proposition. If League is dealt, his value will probably drop or remain the same, but it could skyrocket if he remains and Wilhelmsen is shipped off. A deep sleeper for saves is Charlie Furbush, who has only given up 2 runs in his last 23.2 innings and could inherit the job if the Mariners are able to move both Wilhelmsen and League. BUY: Brandon League, Charlie Furbush. SELL: Tom Wilhelmsen.
Texas Rangers – With the second-best record in all of baseball, the Rangers will be buyers at the trade deadline. They might look to add a set-up man, as Mike Adams has been somewhat shaky this season, but no pick-up will supplant Joe Nathan at closer. BUY/SELL: None.
July 12, 2012
SPECIAL UPDATE: TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL (PART 1 OF 2)
Glossary
BUY+: This player has a large chance of becoming a closer by the trade deadline.
BUY: This player has a small chance of becoming a closer by the trade deadline.
SELL: This player has a small chance of losing his closer job by the trade deadline.
SELL+: This player has a large chance of losing his closer job by the trade deadline.
TLDR Version
BUY+: Brandon Lyon, Francisco Rodriguez, Luke Gregerson.
BUY: Jose Veras, David Hernandez, Dale Thayer.
SELL: Frank Francisco, John Axford, Jason Motte, J.J. Putz, Huston Street.
SELL+: Brett Myers.
Atlanta Braves – Atlanta is still in the playoff hunt and could look to add an arm down the stretch. This is unlikely to mean much to their bullpen hierarchy, however, as no one they could possibly acquire could threaten Craig Kimbrel. BUY/SELL: None.
Miami Marlins – The Marlins need bullpen help, but are several games under .500 and are unlikely to make any moves either way. They have former closer Juan Oviedo (Leo Nunez) returning from suspension soon, and will hope to rally with the staff they have. BUY/SELL: None.
New York Mets – The Mets may look to add an arm in the bullpen– Grant Balfour’s name has been bandied about– and that’s actually bad news for their current crop of relievers. Frank Francisco, due to return from the DL after the All Star Break, has been far from solid, and any new acquisition could push him for the closer’s job. BUY: None. SELL: Frank Francisco.
Philadelphia Phillies – Despite the Phillies’ struggles, they’re unlikely to sell off any valuable bullpen assets. Jonathan Papelbon has a long term contract, and they value Antonio Bastardo too highly to move him. BUY/SELL: None.
Washington Nationals – Even without Drew Storen– who is expected back in a few weeks– the first place Nats have one of the strongest bullpens in the NL. They’re unlikely to make any moves that would affect their hierarchy. BUY/SELL: None.
Chicago Cubs – The Cubs are selling anything and everything, but they may not have many takers for the top arms in their bullpen. Carlos Marmol has a big contract and is far too volatile to generate any interest. Meanwhile, Shawn Camp, James Russell and Rafael Dolis are unlikely to affect the 9th inning role if they do end up landing anywhere else. BUY/SELL: None.
Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman, despite some recent road bumps, is locked in to the closer role for the remainder of the year. Sean Marshall has also been rock solid in the 8th inning role. If the Reds look to make a trade, it won’t affect the bullpen. BUY/SELL: None.
Houston Astros – The Astros are looking to move Brett Myers, whose has a $10 million option that will kick in if he finishes 45 games. This makes him an interesting trade acquisition, as cash-strapped teams may be reluctant to move him into the closer role if they acquire him. Unfortunately, this also hurts his value, as it further decreases the chance that he’ll close wherever he lands. Brandon Lyon would inherit the job if Myers is dealt, which seems likely at this point. BUY+: Brandon Lyon. SELL+: Brett Myers.
Milwaukee Brewers – Brewers GM Doug Melvin said he would like to see how the team performs in the weeks after the break before deciding to sell. But if they do, they have several players in the bullpen that could interest contenders. John Axford has blown a handful of saves this year, and like most closers on bottom feeders, could see his value drop if he is dealt and moved into a set-up role. Francisco Rodriguez and Jose Veras have also been mentioned in trade talks, though their values are likely to rise if they (or Axford) is moved. BUY+: Francisco Rodriguez. BUY: Jose Veras. SELL: John Axford.
Pittsburgh Pirates – The first-place Pirates are buyers, but most media reports have them seeking a bat, not an arm. Even if they were to tack on in the bullpen, an acquisition would probably inherit the 7th or 8th inning role, as Joel Hanrahan has been solid all year. BUY/SELL: None.
St. Louis Cardinals – The Cardinals need some bullpen help, as Jason Motte has been shaky for much of the season. The St. Louis Dispatch reported on Tuesday that Huston Street could be an option, and Street expressed the desire to close if he moves elsewhere. Such a deal could hurt Motte’s value. BUY: None. SELL: Jason Motte.
Arizona Diamondbacks – They haven’t performed as well as expected, but the Diamondbacks are only four games out of first. But as of right now, they’re sellers, reportedly listening to offers to Justin Upton. J.J. Putz is an interesting trade target, and though his name hasn’t surfaced in trade talks yet, but he’s in the last year of his contract (the D’Backs have a club option) and could generate interest from contenders. However, this might be more likely to hurt his value than help it, as he could land with a team that puts him in a set-up role. David Hernandez would inherit the role if he gets traded. BUY: David Hernandez. SELL: J.J. Putz.
Colorado Rockies – ESPN’s Buster Olney has reported that the Rockies would have to be overwhelmed in a deal for either Rafael Betancourt or Matt Belisle, so there isn’t much chance that either will move before the trade deadline. At 32-51, the Rockies are obviously not buyers, either. BUY/SELL: None.
Los Angeles Dodgers – The Dodgers’ bullpen is solid, with Kenley Jansen still racking up strikeouts at an absurd rate. They’re unlikely to be factors in the bullpen market at the deadline. BUY/SELL: None.
San Diego Padres – Huston Street is a great bet to move somewhere else before the All Star Break, and a trade would either cause his value to rise slightly (if he goes to a contender and continues to close out games) or plummet (if he becomes a set-up man). But a definite beneficiary is Luke Gregerson– or possibly Dale Thayer– who could see saves once Street lands elsewhere. BUY+: Luke Gregerson. BUY: Dale Thayer. SELL: Huston Street.
San Francisco Giants – The Giants proved last year that they’re willing to make a splash at the deadline, but they’re unlikely to make any moves, bullpen-wise, as they have two solid top-tier relievers in Santiago Casilla and Sergio Romo. BUY/SELL: None.
July 10, 2012
Miami Marlins – Ozzie Guillen told The Dan LeBatard Show today that he would use a closer-by-committee after the All Star Break. Steve Cishek is the best candidate for saves, while Mike Dunn could see some opportunities against lefty-heavy lineups. Juan Oviedo (nee Leo Nunez) will also be in the mix when he returns from suspension. Hierarchy change: Steve Cishek to Closer, Heath Bell to Set-up, Juan Ovideo to Set-up (Suspended).
July 9, 2012
Arizona Diamondbacks – Patrick Corbin picked up a 3-inning save on Sunday. He does not factor in to Arizona’s normal late-inning plans. No hierarchy change.
Miami Marlins – Heath Bell blew his 10th save of the season on Sunday. After the game, Ozzie Guillen told the Miami Herald that he stood behind Bell, but in typically cryptic fashion, also said that “I have to make a decision, a solution, it will be drastic. But I will do it. We’ll wait until the All-Star break, and I will pick whoever is better out there to do the job.’’ Should Bell get demoted, Steve Cishek stands to inherit the job. Juan Oviedo, the man formerly known as Leo Nunez, could also get a shot at his old job when he returns from his suspension later this month. Heath Bell to Hot Seat.
July 8, 2012
Los Angeles Angels – With two lefties due up in the 9th, the Angels went to Scott Downs. He pitched a perfect inning for his 8th save. Ernesto Frieri is still the closer but Downs will continue to get saves if both continue to get the job done. No hierarchy change.
Chicago White Sox – Matt Thornton picked up the save yesterday as predicted in the vulture save watch. Addison Reed is still the closer and was just given the night off after pitching in the previous three days. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde had a rough outing yesterday and pitched in three straight games so he will likely get the day off on Sunday.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – With the Twins employing a true platoon, Jared Burton could get the save opp if there’s a righty-heavy ninth inning due up.
3. Mike Adams, Texas Rangers – Joe Nathan threw 36 pitches in two innings yesterday. This was the first time all season that Nathan had pitched more than one inning so he could be given the day off on Sunday.
July 7, 2012
San Francisco Giants – Sergio Romo picked up his 5th save of the season last night as Santiago Casilla was unavailable due to a blister. Manager Bruce Bochy said before Friday’s game that he was not considering a change at closer, and Romo came out after the game and also said that the closer job was still Casilla’s. However, Casilla has struggled lately, giving up 6 runs and 11 hits over his last 4.1 innings. Romo could see more save opportunities going forward, but it is unlikely that he would ever become the full time closer this season, as the Giants are limiting his workload to keep him from reinjuring his knee or elbow. He’s only pitched on three consecutive nights once this season. Hierarchy change: Sergio Romo to Set-up, Jeremy Affeldt to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Steve Cishek, Miami Marlins – Heath Bell has pitched in four straight games and six of the last seven.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – With the Twins employing a true platoon, Jared Burton could get the save opp if there’s a righty-heavy ninth inning due up.
3. Matt Thornton, Chicago White Sox – Addison Reed has pitched in three straight games.
July 6, 2012
Washington Nationals – Henry Rodriguez was recently activated from the DL and pitched the 8th in a close game last night. He has 9 saves from earlier in the season and it looks like the Nationals would prefer to use Craig Stammen in situations that call for multiple innings.. Hierarchy change: Henry Rodriguez to 2nd in line, replacing Craig Stammen.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Steve Cishek, Miami Marlins – Heath Bell has pitched in three straight games and five of the last six games.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – With the Twins employing a true platoon, Jared Burton could get the save opp if there’s a righty-heavy ninth inning due up.
3. Jason Grilli, Pittsburgh Pirates – Joel Hanrahan has pitched in three straight games.
July 5, 2012
Toronto Blue Jays – Jason Frasor pitched the 7th inning of a close game for the second night in a row. He now has 11 holds on the season and seems to have established himself as the guy that the Blue Jays will use ahead of Oliver and Janssen. Hierarchy change: Jason Frasor to 2nd in line replacing Francisco Cordero.
Chicago White Sox – Jesse Crain was placed on the 15 day DL with a shoulder injury. Matt Thornton piched the 8th and 9th innings of a tie game last night and will move back to the set-up role. Hierarchy change: Matt Thornton to Set-up, Nate Jones to 2nd in line, Jesse Crain to DL
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jose Veras, Milwaukee Brewers – John Axford and Francisco Rodriguez have both pitched in four straight games.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins has gotten the majority of save opportunities recently but Burton could get the call on any night if the match-ups are right.
July 4, 2012
Minnesota Twins – Tyler Robertson pitched a perfect 8th with the Twins up 1 as he picked up his 2nd hold in three games. Robertson was called up from Triple-A Rochester when Matt Capps was put on the DL and has been used in a bunch of late inning situations. He also has some closer experience in the minors as he has 18 saves over the past two seasons. Hierarchy change: Tyler Robertson to 2nd in line replacing Alex Burnett.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins has pitched 4 games in a row and Burton got the night off last night so he will likely get the call if their is a save opportunity.
2. Jose Veras, Milwaukee Brewers – John Axford and Francisco Rodriguez have both pitched in three straight games.
3. Joel Peralta/Kyle Farnsworth, Tampa Bay Rays – Fernando Rodney has pitched in 3 straight and 4 of the past 5 games. Peralta could get a save but he has pitched in 2 straight and 3 of 4 so Kyle Farnsworth could see his first save opportunity since coming off the DL.
July 3, 2012
Chicago Cubs – Carlos Marmol was unavailable on Monday, but it was James Russell who got the call in the 9th inning, not Shawn Camp. This came as a bit of a surprise, since Camp had pitched as a set-up man in the 8th inning in the previous two games. But it worked out for the Cubs, as Camp again pitched the 8th and allowed only one hit in his inning of work, leaving a lefty-heavy 9th inning for Russell, who earned the save. Camp, who now has 9 straight scoreless outings, is still the most likely candidate for a save on nights when Marmol is unavailable. No hierarchy change.
Los Angeles Angels – Scott Downs cleaned up Jered Weaver’s mess in the 8th inning of a 3-0 game on Monday, and then stayed on for the lefty-heavy ninth to earn his 7th save. Downs remains arguably the best set-up man in baseball, but will only see occasional save opportunities if Ernesto Frieri’s dominance continues. No hierarchy change.
Miami Marlins – The Marlins placed Edward Mujica on the DL over the weekend. Mike Dunn has pitched in the 8th inning in each of the last three games, and slides up to take his place. Hierarchy change: Mike Dunn to 2nd in line, Edward Mujica to DL.
San Diego Padres – Clayton Richard couldn’t quite close out a complete game on Monday, as Joe Thatcher was summoned to record the final out in a 6-2 game. There were a couple men on base, so Thatcher earned his first save of the season. The lefty is unlikely to get many save chances going forward, even if Huston Street is dealt. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Brandon League, Seattle Mariners – Tom Wilhelmsen has pitched 4 innings over the last three games.
2. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – With with the Twins employing a true platoon, Jared Burton could get the save opp on any night, but that’s especially true tonight, as Glen Perkins has pitched three games in a row.
July 2, 2012
Los Angeles Angels – Jordan Walden gave up 3 runs last night and saw his ERA climb to 3.96. LaTroy Hawkins, meanwhile, has given up just 1 run in 8 innings since returning from the DL and has a 1.10 ERA on the season. Hierarchy change: LaTroy Hawkins to 2nd in line, replacing Jordan Walden.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Vicente Padilla, Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves has pitched 3.1 innings over the past two nights.
2. Shawn Camp, Chicago Cubs – Carlos Marmol has pitched in three straight games.
3. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – With with the Twins employing a true platoon, Jared Burton could get the save opp if there’s a righty-heavy ninth inning due up.
July 1, 2012
Tampa Bay Rays – Kyle Farnsworth pitched his first inning of year on Saturday, logging a scoreless frame in the 7th inning. The former closer immediately slots in to the Rays late-inning hierarchy, and could push Joel Peralta for the 8th inning role. Hierarchy change: Kyle Farnsworth to 2nd in line, replacing Jake McGee.
Pittsburgh Pirates – Jared Hughes got the last out of the 8th inning with the Pirates up three runs, then stayed on for the 9th after the Pirates added to their lead. Hughes does not fit in to the Pirates regular late-inning plans. No hierarchy change.
Oakland A’s – Brian Fuentes was summoned in the 6th inning on Saturday with the A’s down by 4 runs, and he proceeded to give up a run on two hits and a walk in 1.1 innings. Bob Melvin has said that he’s trying to work Fuentes back into a late-inning role, but the lefty isn’t helping himself, as he now sports a 6.84 ERA. Jerry Blevins (2.51 ERA) has been a much more reliable lefty for the A’s, as he picked up a 7th inning hold on Friday. Hierarchy change: Jerry Blevins to 2nd in line, replacing Brian Fuentes.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Vicente Padilla, Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves pitched 2.1 innings yesterday in an extra inning game.
2. Brandon League, Seattle Mariners – Tom Wilhelmsen pitched 2 innings yesterday in an extra inning game.
3. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – With with the Twins employing a true platoon, Jared Burton could get the save opp if there’s a righty-heavy ninth inning due up.
June 30, 2012
Toronto Blue Jays – Darren Oliver pitched the 8th inning ahead of Casey Janssen on Friday, his fourth consecutive 8th inning hold. The ageless lefty is having the best season of his career, sporting a 1.59 ERA and 0.92 WHIP. Hierarchy change: Darren Oliver to Set-up, Francisco Cordero to 2nd in line.
Texas Rangers – With both Joe Nathan and Mike Adams unavailable, the Rangers called on young Tanner Scheppers in the 9th inning yesterday. Scheppers was an unexpected choice, as he’d struggled so far this season since being called up in early June. But the righty is a former first round pick, and despite some early road bumps (his current ERA is 9.31), he’s been pitching in some high-leverage spots. Hierarchy change: Tanner Scheppers to 2nd in line, replacing Robbie Ross.
Baltimore Orioles – Matt Lindstrom got the final out of the 7th inning on Friday, and eventually earned the win in his second appearance since returning from the DL. The hard-throwing righty has a 1.80 ERA on the season, and given his past closer experience, he’d likely be the guy the Orioles went to if Jim Johnson and Pedro Strop were unavailable. Hierarchy change: Matt Lindstrom to 2nd in line, replacing Darren O’Day.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – With with the Twins employing a true platoon, Jared Burton could get the save opp if there’s a righty-heavy ninth inning due up.
June 29, 2012
Philadelphia Phillies – Chad Qualls was sent to the minors on Thursday. Jake Diekman has a 2.08 ERA in June and has been pitching in some higher-leverage late-inning spots as of late, and will move up to take Qualls’s place. Hierarchy change: Jake Diekman to 2nd in line, replacing Chad Qualls.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Robbie Ross, Texas Rangers – Both Joe Nathan and Mike Adams have pitched in three straight, and four of the last five.
2. Brandon Lyon, Houston Astros – Brett Myers had a horrendous outing last night, and has pitched in four of the last five. He could get the night off tonight.
3. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – With with the Twins employing a true platoon, Jared Burton could get the save opp if there’s a righty-heavy ninth inning due up.
June 28, 2012
San Francisco Giants – Sergio Romo picked up his fourth save of the season on Wednesday. Both Santiago Casilla and Jeremy Affeldt had pitched the night before, and in 4 of the last 5. No hierarchy change.
Kansas City Royals – Aaron Crow finished the 8th inning yesterday, keeping the game tied and eventually earning a win when the Royals scored in the bottom half. On Tuesday, he pitched the 8th inning with the Royals ahead by 2 runs. Greg Holland has struggled over the past two weeks, allowing 11 baserunners in his last 3.1 innings. Hierarchy change: Aaron Crow to Set-up, Greg Holland to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. David Robertson, New York Yankees – Rafael Soriano threw 30 pitches in earning the save last night, and has now pitched in four of the last five games.
June 27, 2012
Chicago Cubs – Shawn Camp pitched 1.1 innings on Tuesday, finishing the 7th and 8th innings ahead of Carlos Marmol. James Russell’s usage lately has been sporadic, as he’s often pitched in blowouts, or early in games, as he did yesterday. Hierarchy change: Shawn Camp to Set-up, James Russell to 2nd in line.
San Francisco Giants – Yesterday, Jeremy Affeldt pitched the 8th inning ahead of Santiago Casilla for the third time in the last four days. To be frank, Affeldt is not as good as Sergio Romo. But he does have more experience as a closer, and based on his recent usage, Bruce Bochy would probably promote the lefty to the 9th inning role if anything were to happen to Santiago Casilla. Hierarchy change: Jeremy Affeldt to Set-up, Sergio Romo to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – With with the Twins employing a true platoon, Jared Burton could get the save opp if there’s a righty-heavy ninth inning due up.
2. Brandon Lyon, Houston Astros – Brett Myers has pitched in three straight.
June 26, 2012
Minnesota Twins – With two lefthanders due up in the 8th inning, the Twins summoned Glen Perkins, leaving the ninth to Jared Burton. Burton earned his second save in as many days, after Perkins got the first two opportunities last week in Matt Capps’s absence. The Twins will use a true committee going forward, basing the 9th inning role on match ups, Ron Gardenhire said before the game. But given Gardenhire’s aversion to using Burton against lefties– and his reluctance to use Burton too frequently due to the righty’s injury history, which he referenced before Monday’s game– Perkins is still the more likely candidate for a save on any given night, since he’s shown the ability to get both righties and lefties out. No hierarchy change.
Houston Astros – Fernando Rodriguez gave up 2 more runs on Monday, and his ERA now sits at 6.28 for the season. While he was one of the more reliable relievers for the Astros in 2011, he’s struggled all year long. Lefthander Wesley Wright, meanwhile, now has 10 holds on the season and often stays in to pitch to righthanded hitters. Hierarchy change: Wesley Wright to 2nd in line, replacing Fernando Rodriguez.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins is most likely to nab a save today, but with the Twins employing a true platoon, Jared Burton could get his third straight save chance.
June 25, 2012
Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman surrendered a walkoff HR on Sunday, and has now given 8 runs in his last 6.1 innings. Chapman still has spectacular season-long numbers, but if he blows another save, Dusty Baker could go back to Sean Marshall, who has a 0.79 ERA in June and has given up just 1 run in his last 17 appearances. Aroldis Chapman to Hot Seat.
San Francisco Giants – For the second night in a row, Santiago Casilla couldn’t get out of the 9th inning. On Sunday, he allowed a 3-run walkoff HR, and he’s now given up 5 runs in his last 1.2 innings. Casilla has been solid all season, but the Giants have a spectacular set-up man in Sergio Romo, who could easily be plugged into the role if Casilla continues to struggle. Santiago Casilla to Hot Seat.
Minnesota Twins – Matt Capps appears headed for the DL after returning early to Minnesota for an MRI. Ron Gardenhire said that until Capps’s return, Glen Perkins and Jared Burton would share opportunities based on match ups. Burton got the call on Sunday, picking up his first save of the season, but Perkins is more likely to see the majority of chances over the next few weeks. Hierarchy change: Glen Perkins to Closer, Jared Burton to Set-up, Alex Burnett to 2nd in line, Matt Capps to DL.
New York Mets – Frank Francisco was placed on the DL on Sunday with a left oblique strain, and Terry Collins said that Bobby Parnell will get save chances until Francisco returns. Jon Rauch could see save opps if Parnell struggles. Hierarchy change: Bobby Parnell to Closer, Jon Rauch to Set-up, Tim Byrdak to 2nd in line, Frank Francisco to DL.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde’s injury isn’t particularly serious, but he will be out through the weekend. Joaquin Benoit will get save chances until he returns.
2. Sergio Romo, San Francisco Giants – Santiago Casilla has pitched in three consecutive games.
3. Jesse Crain/Matt Thornton, Chicago White Sox – Addison Reed has pitched in three consecutive, and the White Sox could play matchups tonight to determine who gets the save chance.
4. Jared Burton, Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins is most likely to nab a save in Matt Capps’s absence, but Jared Burton could also get an occasional chance.
June 24, 2012
New York Mets – Frank Francisco was placed on the DL with a left oblique strain. Manager Terry Collins has said that Bobby Parnell will close while Francisco is out. Hierarchy change: Bobby Parnell to Closer, Jon Rauch to Set-up, Tim Byrdak to 2nd in line, Frank Francisco to DL.
Minnesota Twins – Speaking on his weekly radio show, Ron Gardenhire said this morning that Matt Capps could be headed to the disabled list with a sore right shoulder. Capps is headed back to Minnesota for an MRI. Hierarchy change: Glen Perkins to Closer, Jared Burton to Set-up, Alex Burnett to 2nd in line, Matt Capps to DL.
San Francisco Giants – Clay Hensley picked up a one-out save after Santiago Casilla couldn’t close the door for the Giants on Saturday. Casilla has been solid all season, with only one official blown, and his job will not be in jeopardy unless he has a few more poor outings. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde’s injury isn’t particularly serious, but he will be out through the weekend. Joaquin Benoit will get save chances until he returns.
June 23, 2012
Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins picked up his second save of the week on Friday. As noted in yesterday’s vulture save watch, Matt Capps is still nursing an injury, but should be back soon. No hierarchy change.
Arizona Diamondbacks – David Hernandez got out of a tough spot in the 8th inning, and then stayed on for the 9th with the D’Backs up 6-1 to earn his second save of the year. This was not a typical save situation and JJ Putz’s job is not in jeopardy. No hierarchy change.
Oakland A’s – All year, Ryan Cook’s dirty little secret has been his hideous BB/IP ratio (5.7 per 9), and yesterday, it finally came back to bite him, as he blew his second save of the season after walking the inning’s first two batters on nine pitches. Under most circumstances, one outing wouldn’t be enough to endanger his job, but Cook has never actually been officially named the closer, and former 9th inning man Grant Balfour has been stellar all month, having allowed 0 runs and 3 hits in his last 9.2 innings. Ryan Cook to Hot Seat.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde’s injury isn’t particularly serious, but he will be out through the weekend. Joaquin Benoit will get save chances until he returns.
2. Glen Perkins, Minnesota Twins – If Matt Capps still can’t go today, Perkins could get another save opp.
3. Grant Balfour, Oakland A’s – Ryan Cook has pitched in three of the last four games, including his worst outing of the season last night. He could get the day off.
June 22, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Sent to the minors after some early season struggles, Rex Brothers returned to the big leagues earlier this month and has since been dominant. Yesterday, he finished off the 7th inning, and has now allowing just 2 hits and 1 run in 8.2 innings, while striking out 14. Adam Ottavino, meanwhile, has struggled as of late, allowing 6 runs in his last 6.2 innings. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to 2nd in line, replacing Adam Ottavino.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde’s injury isn’t particularly serious, but he will be out through the weekend. Joaquin Benoit will get save chances until he returns.
2. Glen Perkins, Minnesota Twins – If Matt Capps still can’t go today, Perkins could get another save opp.
June 21, 2012
Minnesota Twins – With Matt Capps dealing with an inflamed right shoulder, Glen Perkins picked up the save on Wednesday, pitching a clean inning. Capps is expected back in a day or two. No hierarchy change.
Los Angeles Angels – Scott Downs pitched the 8th inning last night, earning his 12th hold of the year. But Ernesto Frieri has now gotten 8 of the last 11 save opportunities for the Angels, and since Downs’s return from a minor injury to his side, the lefty has been used exclusively as a set-up man. The platoon is over; it’s now Frieri’s job for good. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – As expected, Jose Valverde’s injury isn’t particularly serious, but he will be out through the weekend. Joaquin Benoit will get save chances until he returns.
2. Glen Perkins, Minnesota Twins – If Matt Capps still can’t go today, Perkins could get another save opp.
June 20, 2012
Detroit Tigers – While warming up in the bullpen on Tuesday, Jose Valverde hurt his wrist and was held out of the game; Phil Coke entered in his place and picked up his first save of the season. An initial exam by the Tigers medical staff suggested that the injury was minor, but Valverde still went for an MRI after the game. The Tigers will likely announce the results before today’s game. Valverde himself said he didn’t think that the injury was serious, but if he does need a DL stint, Joaquin Benoit will see the bulk of the save opportunities. No hierarchy change.
Milwaukee Brewers – John Axford gave up back-to-back home runs last night, and has now given up 9 ERs in his last 5 innings pitched, a span that includes three blown saves, and a fourth outing where he needed to be bailed out by Jose Veras. While Ron Roenicke said he’s ready to make a change just yet, Axford remains on the Hot Seat, with Francisco Rodriguez and his 292 saves waiting in the wings. No hierarchy change.
Toronto Blue Jays – Jason Frasor gave up 2 runs on Tuesday, pushing his ERA to 4.26. Meanwhile, veteran lefty Darren Oliver pitched yet another scoreless inning, eventually earning the win after John Axford blew the save. He’s been used against both righties and lefties this season, and now has a sparkling 1.48 ERA. Hierarchy change: Darren Oliver to 2nd in line, replacing Jason Frasor.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – The results of Jose Valverde’s MRI have not been revealed, and if he can’t pitch today, Benoit will get the save opp.
2. Jose Veras, Milwaukee Brewers – While John Axford remains the closer in Milwaukee, he could get the night off to clear his head. Francisco Rodriguez has pitched in three consecutive games, making Jose Veras the best candidate for a save if Axford stays on the bench.
June 19, 2012
Houston Astros – Brett Myers had a stunning outing on Monday, allowing 8 hits and 5 runs while only recording two outs. He threw 40 pitches– the most an Astros reliever has ever thrown without getting out of an inning– and was finally yanked for Xavier Cedeno, who picked up his first career save. But despite the horrific outing, Myers has only blown one save on the year and his job is not in jeopardy. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Brandon Lyon, Houston Astros – After Brett Myers’s endless outing on Monday, the Astros might give him a night off.
2. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri has now been used for 7 of the last 10 save opportunities, but Mike Scioscia hasn’t officially declared an end to the platoon, so a lefty-heavy ninth inning could still result in an appearance from Downs.
June 18, 2012
Washington Nationals – Brad Lidge had struggled since returning from the DL, and on Sunday, the Nats designated him for assignment. He’ll probably look to catch on elsewhere, as his career in Washington is likely over. Hierarchy change: Craig Stammen to 2nd in line, replacing Brad Lidge.
Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman was available on Sunday, but had pitched in three of the past four games. Wanting to give his closer some rest, Dusty Baker went to Sean Marshall, who picked up the save. No hierarchy change.
Houston Astros – Wilton Lopez hit the disabled list on Sunday. Brandon Lyon (2.81 ERA) moves up and stands to nab any save chances when Brett Myers is unavailable. Hierarchy change: Brandon Lyon to Set-up, Fernando Rodriguez to 2nd in line, Wilton Lopez to DL.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Mitchell Boggs, St. Louis Cardinals – Jason Motte has pitched in four of the last five games, including a 2-inning, 29 pitch outing on Sunday.
2. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Scott Downs has been kept out of action this week after experiencing discomfort in his side, and Ernesto Frieri has now been used for 7 of the last 10 save opportunities. Scioscia hasn’t officially declared an end to the platoon, however, and a lefty-heavy ninth inning could still result in an appearance from Downs.
June 17, 2012
Boston Red Sox – Toiling in what’s generally been a mop-up role for much of the season, Scott Atchison has been nothing short of brilliant, pitching 35.1 innings– the most of anyone in the Red Sox bullpen– and compiling a 1.27 ERA in the process. On Saturday, he earned his third hold of the season, finishing off the 7th inning, and it appears the Red Sox are finally ready to start using him in meaningful spots. Hierarchy change: Scott Atchison to 2nd in line, replacing Andrew Miller.
Cleveland Indians – Nick Hagadone’s ERA rose to 4.98 after he got knocked around by the Pirates on Saturday. After Chris Perez and Vinnie Pestano, the Indians bullpen has been shaky. Only Joe Smith has been reliable in recent weeks, as he’s only allowed 1 run in his past 7.2 innings. Hierarchy change: Joe Smith to 2nd in line, replacing Nick Hagadone.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri has gotten 6 of the last 9 save opps, but Downs could still snag a save on any night if match-ups are right.
June 16, 2012
Texas Rangers – The Rangers placed Koji Uehara on the disabled list yesterday. Young lefty Robbie Ross is having an outstanding season and is the most likely candidate to inherit the 7th inning role. Hierarchy change: Robbie Ross to 2nd in line, Koji Uehara to DL.
Oakland A’s – Evan Scribner earned a 3-inning save on Friday. He does not factor in to the A’s normal late inning plans. No hierarchy change.
Kansas City Royals – Aaron Crow pitched the 8th inning on Friday, three days after being summoned in a close game in the 7th. After Jonathon Broxton and Greg Holland, the Royals bullpen is pretty fluid, with Crow, Kelvin Herrera, and Tim Collins all being used in the 6th and 7th innings. But recently, it’s been Crow who has seen the majority of the late-innings work. Hierarchy change: Aaron Crow to 2nd in line, replacing Kelvin Herrera.
Chicago Cubs – Carlos Marmol on Friday got his first save since returning from the minors, and Dale Sveum said after the game that Marmol was his closer again. Marmol is immediately on the Hot Seat, as it’s easy to picture Sveum yanking him out of the role again if he blows his next couple opportunities (and his save on Friday was far from smooth). But he’ll see the majority of save chances going forward. Hierarchy change: Carlos Marmol to Closer, James Russell to Set-up, Shawn Camp to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde has pitched in three games in a row.
2. Francisco Rodriguez, Milwaukee Brewers – John Axford has pitched in three straight.
3. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri has gotten 6 of the last 9 save opps, but Downs could still snag a save on any night if match-ups are right.
June 15, 2012
St. Louis Cardinals – Victor Marte pitched parts of the 7th and 8th innings on Thursday, earning his 9th hold of the season. While Mark Rzepczynski generally pitches later in games than Marte, he’s struggled as of late and would likely remain in a specialist role even if Jason Motte and Mitchell Boggs both suffer injuries. Hierarchy change: Victor Marte to 2nd in line, replacing Mark Rzepczynski.
Milwaukee Brewers – John Axford blew his second save in two days on Thursday, and has seen his ERA jump to 5.55 after giving up 7 runs in his last three outings. He would be in more danger if the Brewers had any lights-out middle relievers, but Francisco Rodriguez- the only real threat to Axford’s job- is also having a mediocre season. Still, if Axford continues to pitch poorly, the Brewers might have to look elsewhere. John Axford to Hot Seat.
New York Yankees – The Yankees activated David Robertson from the DL on Thursday. Robertson is expected to return to a set-up role, but could challenge for the closer job if Rafael Soriano struggles. Hierarchy change: David Robertson to Set-up, Boone Logan to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Shawn Camp, Chicago Cubs – James Russell has registered 2 saves for the Cubs since the demotion of Rafael Dolis; Camp has gotten the other. Matchups will likely determine who is used in the 9th today.
2. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri has gotten 6 of the last 9 save opps, but Downs could still snag a save on any night if match-ups are right.
3. Jose Veras, Milwaukee Brewers – John Axford has blown saves on back to back days, throwing 47 pitches in the process, and might be given a day off. Francisco Rodriguez has pitched in three in a row, and five of the last six, making Jose Veras the most likely candidate for a save opp.
June 14, 2012
Tampa Bay Rays – Jake McGee pitched a perfect inning in a losing effort on Wednesday, lowering his ERA to 1.69. JP Howell, meanwhile, has not rediscovered the velocity that made him such a dynamic reliever two years ago and has struggled, particularly in recent weeks. Hierarchy change: Jake McGee to 2nd in line, replacing JP Howell.
San Diego Padres – Luke Gregerson picked up the 8th inning hold for the second straight day on Wednesday. Dale Thayer, who flamed out spectacularly as the fill-in closer just as Huston Street was returning from the DL, has been used minimally since. Hierarchy change: Luke Gregerson to Set-up, Dale Thayer to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Shawn Camp, Chicago Cubs – James Russell has registered 2 saves for the Cubs since the demotion of Rafael Dolis; Camp has gotten the other. Matchups will likely determine who is used in the 9th today.
June 13, 2012
Chicago Cubs – Carlos Marmol pitched in a tie game in the 8th, eventually earning the win last night. After Marmol pitched, Shawn Camp earned his first save of the season, pitching a clean ninth inning. Camp has now gotten the last two save opportunities (he blew the first one), after James Russell got the first two chances following Rafael Dolis’s demotion. Russell remains firmly on the Hot Seat, and another save chance for Camp could signal a shift in the Cubs’ ugly closer-by-committee. Hierarchy change: Carlos Marmol to 2nd in line, replacing Casey Coleman.
Oakland A’s – In the A’s first save opportunity since Bob Melvin announced the platoon, Ryan Cook got the call, striking out 2 and earning his first save. Grant Balfour pitched the 7th and 8th innings. While Fuentes may still get a save chance if match-ups are right, he hasn’t pitched since being demoted. Hierarchy change: Grant Balfour to Set-up, Brian Fuentes to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Shawn Camp, Chicago Cubs – James Russell has registered 2 saves for the Cubs since the demotion of Rafael Dolis; Camp has gotten the other. Matchups will likely determine who is used in the 9th today.
2. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri has gotten 5 of the last 8 save opps, but Downs could still snag a save on any night if match-ups are right.
June 12, 2012
Toronto Blue Jays – Sergio Santos suffered another setback in his rehab this weekend and could be out until after the All Star break, or longer. Casey Janssen has performed well in his stead and with this news, his value continues to rise. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri has pitched on three consecutive days.
2. Shawn Camp, Chicago Cubs – James Russell has gotten 2 of the Cubs 3 save opportunities since the demotion of Rafael Dolis; Camp has gotten the other. Matchups will likely determine who is used in the 9th today.
June 11, 2012
Baltimore Orioles – Darren O’Day picked up his 4th win of the year on Sunday, pitching a scoreless frame in the 10th inning. The submariner now has a 1.78 ERA and has shown that he can consistently get both righties and lefties out. Hierarchy change: Darren O’Day to 2nd in line, replacing Luis Ayala.
Seattle Mariners – Before Sunday’s game, Eric Wedge said that he’d likely put Brandon League back in the closer role “sooner rather than later.” Tom Wilhelmsen has performed well in the role since League’s demotion– and League got knocked around a bit on Sunday– but it sounds as if Wilhelmsen will inevitably move back to a set-up role once Wedge reinstalls his former closer. Tom Wilhelmsen to Hot Seat.
Pittsburgh Pirates – Up until Sunday, the Pirates had used Jason Grilli exclusively in the 8th inning, vaulting Juan Cruz from his 7th inning role into the closer role on nights when Joel Hanrahan was unavailable. But yesterday, with Hanrahan getting the night off, the Pirates finally gave Grilli a save opp, and he converted. Hierarchy change: Jason Grilli to Set-up, Juan Cruz to 2nd in line.
Los Angeles Angels – Scott Downs picked up the save last night, but looked a bit shaky, giving up his first earned run of the season. Since Ernesto Frieri got his first opportunity, the Angels have given Downs three save chances, while Frieri has gotten four. While there’s no end in sight to the platoon, Frieri still stands to get a few more opportunities than Downs. No hierarchy change.
Milwaukee Brewers – After John Axford got in trouble in the 9th inning on Sunday, Jose Veras came on and got the last out, recording his first save of the season. Axford has struggled in non-save situations this year, but is 10/11 in save chances and is not in danger of losing his job. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Sean Burnett, Washington Nationals – Tyler Clippard has pitched in three straight, and in five of the last six.
2. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri has gotten 4 of the last 7 save opps, but Downs could still snag a save on any night if match-ups are right.
June 10, 2012
Washington Nationals – After Brad Lidge struggled Friday in his first outing since returning from the DL, Washington went to Sean Burnett in the 8th inning on Saturday. Burnett (0.95 ERA) pitched another clean inning and continues to have a stellar season. Hierarchy change: Sean Burnett to Set-up, Brad Lidge to 2nd in line.
Oakland A’s – Bob Melvin told the San Francisco Chronicle before Saturday’s game that he would employ a closer-by-committee going forward, with Ryan Cook, Brian Fuentes, and Grant Balfour involved. Melvin also said that Ryan Cook was his best option in any tough situation, making him the best bet to win the job. Hierarchy change: Ryan Cook to Closer, Brian Fuentes to Set-up.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Juan Cruz, Pittsburgh Pirates – Joel Hanrahan has pitched in three straight, and in four of the last five.
2. Sean Burnett, Washington Nationals – Tyler Clippard has pitched in back to back games, and in four of the last five.
3. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri has gotten 4 of the last 6 save opps, but Downs could still snag a save on any night if match-ups are right.
4. Shawn Camp, Chicago Cubs – James Russell has gotten 2 of the Cubs 3 save opportunities since the demotion of Rafael Dolis; Camp has gotten the other. Matchups will determine who is used in the 9th today.
June 9, 2012
Oakland A’s – Brian Fuentes blew another save last night and is now only 5 for 8 in save opportunities. Ryan Cook pitched the 8th last night and struck out the side while lowering his ERA to 0.69. When asked about the closer situation after the game Manager Bob Melvin simply said, “I don’t make a decision like that two minutes after a game.” It appears Melvin is certainly considering a change and Cook has pitched well enough to deserve a shot at closing. No hierarchy change.
Chicago Cubs – While Dale Sveum declared that his 9th inning role a platoon, Friday was the first time since Rafael Dolis’s demotion that anyone other than James Russell was given a save opportunity for the Cubs. Shawn Camp came in to try and close the door on the Twins, but gave up the tying run in the 9th, and then the game-winning run in the 10th. While Camp struggled in his first effort in the role, Russell’s usage has been all over the place, as he’s been summoned before the 9th inning numerous times, including last night. James Russell to Hot Seat.
San Diego Padres – Andrew Cashner is being moved to the rotation. He will start today’s game, and if he pitches well, he’ll be sent to the minors to be stretched out. Hierarchy change: Luke Gregerson to 2nd in line, replacing Andrew Cashner
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Juan Cruz, Pittsburgh Pirates – Joel Hanrahan has pitched in back to back night and 3 out of the last 4. Juan Cruz would get the chance for the save if Hanrahan gets a night off.
2. Shawn Camp/Casey Coleman/Manny Corpas, Chicago Cubs – James Russell’s usage suggests that if he is needed earlier in the game manager Sveum will not be afraid to bring him in before the 9th and let someone else close out the game.
3. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri has gotten 4 of the last 6 save opps, but Downs could still snag a save on any night if match-ups are right.
June 8, 2012
Texas Rangers – With Derek Holland injured, Alexi Ogando is moving to the rotation. Koji Uehara (1.33 ERA, 0.54 WHIP), will assume Ogando’s role as the high-leverage 7th inning righty in the Rangers bullpen. Hierarchy change: Koji Uehara to 2nd in line, replacing Alexi Ogando.
Washington Nationals – Brad Lidge returned from the disabled list yesterday. While he won’t return to the shared closer role he held earlier this year, he’ll likely be one of the first guys that Davey Johnson looks to if Tyler Clippard falters. Hierarchy change: Brad Lidge to Set-up, Sean Burnett to 2nd in line.
Pittsburgh Pirates – Chris Resop picked up a 10th inning save last night. Joel Hanrahan had already pitched, blowing the save an inning earlier, but his job is not in jeopardy. No hierarchy change.
Miami Marlins – Edward Mujica got knocked around on Thursday and saw his ERA rise to 4.74 as a result. Steve Cishek also surrendered a few runs in the game, but has been solid all season, with a 1.82 ERA. During Heath Bell’s well-documented struggles earlier this season, Mujica picked up 2 saves to Cishek’s 1, but Cishek has since passed him on the depth chart, and has set up for Bell three times over the past two weeks. Hierarchy change: Steve Cishek to Set-up, Edward Mujica to 2nd in line.
Chicago Cubs – With the Cubs leading yesterday, they used Shawn Camp in the 7th, and then James Russell for just one batter in the 8th. Manny Corpas followed, blowing the save but registering two scoreless innings, and Casey Coleman was called on in the 10th. While Russell has gotten all of the save opportunities since Rafael Dolis’s demotion, it’s silly season for the Cubs bullpen, and any one of these four could potentially nab a save on any night. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri has gotten 4 of the last 6 save opps, but Downs could still snag a save on any night if match-ups are right.
2. Shawn Camp/Casey Coleman/Manny Corpas, Chicago Cubs – See above.
June 7, 2012
Atlanta Braves – Eric O’Flaherty pitched the 8th inning ahead of Craig Kimbrel on Wednesday, the fourth such time he has been used in that role in the past nine days. Jonny Venters struggled in May, posting a 6.55 ERA for the month. O’Flaherty’s WHIP (1.50) is still ugly, but he has not given up an earned run since May 7, a span of 11 consecutive appearance. Hierarchy change: Eric O’Flaherty to Set-up, Jonny Venters to 2nd in line.
San Francisco Giants – Sergio Romo picked up his third save in the past five days, as Santiago Casilla’s injury has been a little more severe than the Giants initially thought. While he is still on the active roster– Bruce Bochy said before Wednesday’s game that Casilla could play in the event of an emergency– he’s now missed five straight days of action. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Pedro Strop, Baltimore Orioles – Jim Johnson has thrown 3 innings and 49 pitches over the last two days.
2. Ronald Belisario, Los Angeles Dodgers – Kenley Jansen has pitched in three straight, and four of the last five.
3. Sergio Romo/Jeremy Affeldt, San Francisco Giants – If the Giants continue to hold out Santiago Casilla, then Sergio Romo or Jeremy Affeldt could nab a save.
4. Shawn Camp, Chicago Cubs – James Russell has gotten all of the save opportunities since Rafael Dolis’s demotion, but he’s not being used like a traditional closer yet. Should the Cubs face a righty-heavy 9th inning, Shawn Camp could pick up a save.
June 6, 2012
San Diego Padres – Huston Street returned from the DL on Wednesday, and threw a shaky, but scoreless 9th inning in a tie game, earning the win when the Padres walked-off in the bottom half. Street is expected to resume closing immediately. Hierarchy change: Huston Street to Closer, Dale Thayer to Set-up, Andrew Cashner to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Vicente Padilla, Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves threw 39 pitches over 2 innings in the Red Sox loss last night. If he’s given the night off, Vicente Padilla will get the save chance.
2. Pedro Strop, Baltimore Orioles – Jim Johnson threw 32 pitches over 2 innings yesterday.
3. Shawn Camp, Chicago Cubs – James Russell has gotten all of the save opportunities since Rafael Dolis’s demotion, but he’s not being used like a traditional closer yet. Should the Cubs face a righty-heavy 9th inning, Shawn Camp could pick up a save.
June 5, 2012
New York Mets – Jon Rauch took the loss on Monday, surrendering a 2-run HR to Allen Craig, and after the game headed to the hospital for an elbow examination. At minimum, he’s again fallen behind Bobby Parnell on the Mets depth chart. Hierarchy change: Bobby Parnell to Set-up, Jon Rauch to 2nd in line.
Los Angeles Dodgers – Ronald Belisario pitched the 8th inning in a tie game on Monday, eventually earning the win after the Dodgers broke through against Jonathon Papelbon. Belisario (1.26 ERA) continues his quick ascent in the Dodgers’ pen, as he is now the primary set-up man for Kenley Jansen. Hierarchy change: Ronald Belisario to Set-up, Josh Lindblom to 2nd in line.
San Francisco Giants – Santiago Casilla was held out again on Monday, and Jeremy Affeldt recorded a 2-inning save in his stead. Affeldt and Clay Hensley have similar ERAs and strikeout ratios, but Affeldt currently has the edge on the San Francisco depth chart. Casilla, as noted earlier, will not need a DL stint and remains day-to-day. Hierarchy change: Jeremy Affeldt to 2nd in line, replacing Clay Hensley.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Brandon League, Seattle Mariners – Tom Wilhelmsen has pitched 4.2 innings over the past three days, throwing 56 pitches in the process.
2. Glen Perkins, Minnesota Twins – Matt Capps has pitched in three consecutive games.
3. Mitchell Boggs, St. Louis Cardinals – Jason Motte has pitched in two games in a row, including a multi-inning effort yesterday.
4. Shawn Camp, Chicago Cubs – James Russell has gotten all of the save opportunities since Rafael Dolis’s demotion, but his usage over the past two days- he’s pitched in the 8th and then the 7th inning in games the Cubs were trailing- shows he’s not being used like a traditional closer yet. Should the Cubs face a righty-heavy 9th inning, Shawn Camp could pick up a save.
5. Sergio Romo/Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – If the Giants continue to hold out Santiago Casilla, then Sergio Romo or Javier Lopez could nab a save. Jeremy Affeldt pitched two innings yesterday and may need the night off tonight.
June 4, 2012
Houston Astros – Wilton Lopez has quickly and quietly ascended in the Houston bullpen, and pitched the 8th inning ahead of Brett Myers on Sunday. Fernando Rodriguez’s usage has been sporadic, and he has fallen behind Lopez and Brandon Lyon in the Astros pen. Hierarchy change: Wilton Lopez to Set-up, replacing Fernando Rodriguez.
Los Angeles Dodgers – Ronald Belisario pitched another scoreless inning on Sunday, a day after pitching the 8th inning ahead of Kenley Jansen. Belisario, with a 1.35 ERA, has surpassed Javy Guerra on the Dodgers depth chart. Hierarchy change: Ronald Belisario to 2nd in line, replacing Javy Guerra.
San Francisco Giants – The Giants are playing it safe with Santiago Casilla. Bruce Bochy said he could potentially have pitched over the weekend, but on Sunday, he was held out for a 2nd straight game. As predicted in yesterday’s vulture save watch, Sergio Romo was the man to benefit, and he picked up his second consecutive save. No hierarchy change.
Kansas City Royals – For the second time in three games, Kelvin Herrera pitched the 7th inning for the Royals, earning a hold ahead of Greg Holland and Jonathon Broxton. In 29 innings, Herrera now has a 3.10 ERA with 25 Ks and 4 BBs. Hierarchy change: Kelvin Herrera to 2nd in line, replacing Aaron Crow.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri has gotten 4 of the last 6 save opps, but Downs could still snag a save on any night if match-ups are right.
2. Shawn Camp, Chicago Cubs – James Russell has gotten all of the save opportunities since Rafael Dolis’s demotion, but his usage on Sunday- he pitched in the 8th inning with the Cubs trailing- shows he’s not being used like a traditional closer just yet. Should the Cubs face a righty-heavy 9th inning, Shawn Camp could pick up a save.
3. Sergio Romo/Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – If the Giants continue to hold out Santiago Casilla, then Sergio Romo or Javier Lopez could nab a save.
June 3, 2012
San Francisco Giants – Santiago Casilla is day-to-day after hurting his knee in Friday’s game, so the Giants used Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo to get through a 1-run 9th inning on Saturday, with Romo earning his first save of the year. Bruce Bochy told the San Francisco Chronicle that Casilla might be able to pitch today. No hierarchy change.
Washington Nationals – The Nationals’ closer by committee– if there ever was one– appears to be finished. Tyler Clippard has gotten all four save opportunities since Henry Rodriguez was demoted, and he’s converted all four. During that span, Sean Burnett and Craig Stammen have been used exclusively as set-up men. No hierarchy change.
Seattle Mariners – Hisashi Iwakuma recorded the save on Saturday, and has picked up two saves in his last two outings. However, his save on May 30th was of the 3-inning variety in a 21-8 win over the Texas Rangers, and his save yesterday was in the 12th inning after Seattle had used most of their other relievers. Brandon League and Charlie Furbush were both used before the 9th inning, and Tom Wilhelmsen pitched 3 scoreless in picking up the win. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Scott Downs is still sporting a 0.00 ERA, but the Angels have been leaning on Ernesto Frieri more and more lately. Since Frieri got his first save chance, he’s been given 4 save opportunities versus just 2 for Downs.
2. Brandon League, Seattle Mariners – Tom Wilhelmsen threw three innings in yesterday’s 12-inning affair.
3. Sergio Romo/Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Bruce Bochy is hoping that Santiago Casilla can return to action today, but if he can’t, Sergio Romo or Javier Lopez is the likely beneficiary.
June 2, 2012
San Francisco Giants – Starter Madison Bumgarner pitched into the 9th but after a couple guys got on Santiago Casilla came on to finish it out. Casilla gave up a 3 run homerun to the first batter he faced and gave up 2 more hits while only getting one out, also hurting his knee in the process– the Giants have yet to announce how severe the injury is, though initially it didn’t appear serious. Javier Lopez came on with a lefty due up and got the last two outs for the save. No hierarchy change.
Cincinnati Reds – Logan Ondrusek pitched the 8th setting up Aroldis Chapman for the save. Ondrusek continues to have a solid season for the Reds and got the save the last time Chapman was unavailable. Hierarchy change: Logan Ondrusek to 2nd in line, replacing Jose Arredondo.
Los Angeles Angels – Scott Downs pitched the 8th and still has not given up a run for the Angels. However Ernesto Frieri came on for the save in the 9th and has yet to give up a hit in 13 innings since coming over to the Angels. Downs may still see some save opportunities based on match-ups but Frieri should see the majority of save opportunities going forward. No hierarchy change.
New York Yankees – David Robertson is still a few weeks away from returning but the Yankees have already said that Rafael Soriano will continue to close even after Robertson comes back. Robertson will likely go back to his 8th inning duties once he is healthy. Hierarchy change: David Robertson to Set-up (DL).
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Antonio Bastardo, Philadelphia Phillies – Jonathan Papelbon came on for a 5 out save yesterday. Manager Charlie Manuel had said earlier in the week that he would not use Papelbon for more than a 3 out save until September so he may want to give him a night off after last night.
2. Sean Burnett, Washington Nationals – Although Tyler Clippard will most likely get the call if there is a save opportunity on Saturday there is always a chance that Sean Burnett could get the chance if the match-ups are right.
June 1, 2012
Boston Red Sox – Franklin Morales pitched with the Sox trailing on Thursday, surrendering a run. After pitching some key innings for Boston early in the season, he’s fallen out of favor with Bobby Valentine. Andrew Miller (2.38 ERA) was summoned for the 8th ahead of Alfredo Aceves on Wednesday and has pitched well of late. Hierarchy change: Andrew Miller to 2nd in line, replacing Franklin Morales.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri will get the majority of opportunities, but Mike Scioscia is still using a closer-by-committee.
2. Sean Burnett, Washington Nationals – Tyler Clippard has gotten all three save opportunities since Henry Rodriguez was demoted, but Davey Johnson has said that Sean Burnett could still get opportunities based on match-ups.
May 31, 2012
San Diego Padres – Pitching in a tie game on Wednesday, Dale Thayer gave up a walk off home run to Darwin Barney. In his last two outings, Thayer has given up 7 earned runs in just 1.2 innings. Dale Thayer to Hot Seat.
Chicago White Sox – Jesse Crain continues to dominate hitters, with a 1.26 ERA and 0.91 WHIP, and he picked up his second consecutive 8th inning hold last night. Hierarchy change: Jesse Crain to Set-up, Matt Thornton to 2nd in line.
Toronto Blue Jays – His ERA is still ugly due to some awful outings earlier in the year, but Francisco Cordero has been solid since being demoted from the closer role, holding the opposition scoreless in 10 out of 11 outings. He pitched the 8th inning last night- setting up for Casey Janssen- his second such appearance in a row. Hierarchy change: Francisco Cordero to Set-up, Jason Frasor to 2nd in line.
Arizona Diamondbacks – JJ Putz arrived at the ballpark with a sore back yesterday and wasn’t able to pitch. David Hernandez got the save in his place. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Vicente Padilla, Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves has pitched in four straight games.
2. Jose Veras, Milwaukee Brewers – John Axford has pitched in four straight, and ace set-up man Francisco Rodriguez has pitched in three straight. If the Brewers have a late lead, they’ll probably play match-ups, with Jose Veras having the best shot at nabbing the save.
May 30, 2012
Oakland A’s – Brian Fuentes allowed a walkoff 3-run HR last night in what was his first blown save since he was named closer two and a half weeks ago. But while Fuentes has been decent in his role as the A’s stopper, the A’s set-up men have been better. Former closer Grant Balfour has held opponents scoreless in 8 of his last 9 appearances. Ryan Cook, meanwhile, gave up his first runs of the season the other day, but still sports a 0.75 ERA. If Fuentes falters again, the A’s could start thinking about making a move. Brian Fuentes to Hot Seat.
New York Mets – After getting knocked around a bit in the middle of May, Jon Rauch has settled down, allowing just one run in his last six appearances. He pitched the 8th inning ahead of Frank Francisco yesterday; Bobby Parnell was used in the 7th. Hierarchy change: Jon Rauch to Set-up, Bobby Parnell to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Vicente Padilla, Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves has pitched in three straight games.
2. Francisco Rodriguez, Milwaukee Brewers – John Axford has pitched in three straight.
3. Sergio Romo/Clay Hensley, San Francisco Giants – Santiago Casilla has pitched in three straight.
4. Edward Mujica/Steve Cishek, Miami Marlins – Heath Bell has pitched in two straight, and in four of the last five.
5. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri will get the majority of opportunities, but Mike Scioscia is still using a closer-by-committee.
6. Sean Burnett, Washington Nationals – Tyler Clippard has gotten all three save opportunities since Henry Rodriguez was demoted, but Davey Johnson has said that Sean Burnett could still get opportunities based on match-ups.
May 29, 2012
San Francisco Giants – While Javier Lopez has had a great season, he wouldn’t likely inherit the full time job even if Santiago Casilla and Sergio Romo were both hurt. Instead, the role would likely go to Clay Hensley, who pitched a scoreless 8th inning ahead of Casilla on Monday. Hierarchy change: Clay Hensley to 2nd in line, replacing Javier Lopez.
Chicago Cubs – Casey Coleman pitched a clean 9th inning for the Cubs on Monday. While it was not a save opportunity– the Cubs were up by 4– Coleman was briefly mentioned by Dale Sveum over the weekend as someone who could be a 9th inning option. While Sveum strongly endorsed James Russell and Shawn Camp for the role, Coleman could be a dark horse for saves. Hierarchy change: Casey Coleman to 2nd in line, replacing Rafael Dolis.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri will get the majority of opportunities, but Mike Scioscia is still using a closer-by-committee.
2. Sean Burnett, Washington Nationals – Tyler Clippard has gotten all three save opportunities since Henry Rodriguez was demoted, but Davey Johnson has said that Sean Burnett could still get opportunities based on match-ups.
May 28, 2012
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels continue to employ a true platoon, with Scott Downs picking up the save last night against a lefty-heavy top of the lineup for the Mariners. ”Right now, we’re going to just slot them in when they have a chance to get outs,” Mike Scioscia said to the Los Angeles Times. As a righty, Ernesto Frieri still has the best shot to earn a save on any given night, but Downs has been just as reliable. No hierarchy change.
Chicago Cubs – Dale Sveum said before Sunday’s game that Rafael Dolis would be moved back to a middle relief role, and then followed through, using Dolis in the 6th inning. Sveum said the Cubs would play match-ups in the 9th inning for the time being. ”(James Russell) and (Shawn) Camp are our two viable options right now,” he said. Hierarchy change: James Russell to Closer, Shawn Camp to Set-up, Rafael Dolis to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joel Peralta, Tampa Bay Rays – Fernando Rodney has pitched in three straight games, and in five of the last six.
2. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde has pitched in three straight games.
3. Sean Burnett, Washington Nationals – Tyler Clippard has gotten all three save opportunities since Henry Rodriguez was demoted, but Davey Johnson continues to say that Sean Burnett could get opportunities based on match-ups.
4. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri will get the majority of opportunities, but Mike Scioscia is still using a closer-by-committee.
May 27, 2012
Miami Marlins – For the second straight game, Heath Bell was yanked after allowing two baserunners to reach in the 9th inning, and for the second time, the Marlins held on to win. This time, Randy Choate bailed Bell out for his first save of the season. After the game, Ozzie Guillen sounded generally supportive of Bell, but also told the Miami Herald that “Right now, it’s not working. I’m going to sleep on it and see if we come up with some ideas.” Bell remains on the Hot Seat, though due to his contract, it’s likely he’ll continue to hang on to the job despite an 8.47 ERA. But if he’s removed, Edward Mujica and Steve Cishek are most likely to benefit. No hierarchy change.
Chicago Cubs – Saturday was another rough day for Cubs closer Rafael Dolis, who couldn’t find the strike zone and ended up hitting the game’s final batter to force in the game-winning run. Afterward, Dale Sveum said his closer’s inability to find the strike zone was “not acceptable,” though he didn’t say he would remove the young righty from the role. Dolis remains on a blazing Hot Seat and James Russell (1.74 ERA) would be the most likely candidate to replace him. No hierarchy change.
Seattle Mariners – Brandon League has been removed as closer, in a move manager Eric Wedge described as “very similar to what we did last year.” In 2011, League was demoted after becoming the first reliever in Mariners history to lose in four straight appearances, but regained his job only five days later, and wound up in the All-Star Game. Wedge refused to commit to anyone as League’s replacement; Tom Wilhelmsen seems to be the most obvious candidate, but lefties Lucas Luetge and Charlie Furbush could be in the mix as well. Hierarchy change: Tom Wilhelmsen to Closer, Brandon League to Set-Up.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joel Peralta/J.P. Howell, Tampa Bay Rays – Fernando Rodney has pitched in two straight games, and four of the last five. When Rodney gets a day off, Joel Peralta has been used in his place most often this season. Peralta has also been used heavily in recent days, however, so the save chance could go to J.P. Howell.
2. Sean Burnett, Washington Nationals – Davey Johnson clarified his closer role on Saturday, saying Tyler Clippard and Sean Burnett would share opportunities based on match-ups. Clippard has gotten the first three saves, and as a righty, stands to get the majority of chances, but Burnett could snag a save against a lefty-heavy lineup on some nights.
3. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri will get the majority of opportunities, but Mike Scioscia is still using a closer-by-committee.
May 26, 2012
Los Angeles Angels – Scott Downs recorded the save on Friday, pitching a clean 9th inning. Ernesto Frieri will still get the majority of saves in the Angels’ closer-by-committee. No hierarchy change.
New York Yankees – With a three-run lead on Friday, the Yankees turned to Boone Logan, who pitched a breezy 8th inning ahead of Rafael Soriano. Logan (2.95 ERA, 28 Ks in 18.1 IPs) is establishing himself as the go-to set-up man in the Yankees beleaguered bullpen. Hierarchy change: Boone Logan to Set-up, Cory Wade to 2nd in line.
Miami Marlins – Heath Bell struggled in the 9th inning on Friday and was lifted for Steve Cishek, who got the final two outs and picked up his first save of the season. “Bell’s my closer,” Ozzie Guillen said after the game. “But I had a bad feeling.” Bell has pitched much better since winning the job back two weeks ago, but still hasn’t completely earned his manager’s trust. Heath Bell to Hot Seat.
Washington Nationals – The Nationals have had two save opportunities since demoting Henry Rodriguez, and both have gone to Tyler Clippard. When announcing Rodriguez’s demotion and the team’s subsequent plans for a closer-by-committee, Davey Johnson specifically said that Tyler Clippard would remain in a high-leverage set-up role. But that same day, Clippard expressed a strong desire for the job, and Johnson, thought of by many as the ultimate player’s coach, may have been moved by the young righty’s words. Hierarchy change: Tyler Clippard to Closer, Sean Burnett to Set-up.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Antonio Bastardo, Philadelphia Phillies – Jonathan Papelbon has pitched in three consecutive games.
2. Sean Burnett, Washington Nationals – Tyler Clippard has gotten the first two save opportunities, but Davey Johnson has yet to declare that he’s moved away from the closer-by-committee he originally announced.
3. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Mike Scioscia is still using a closer-by-committee.
May 25, 2012
Philadelphia Phillies – Antonio Bastardo pitched the 8th inning on Thursday, and has reclaimed his role as the Phillies set-up man after some struggles early in the season. Hierarchy change: Antonio Bastardo to Set-up, Chad Qualls to 2nd in line.
Chicago White Sox – Jesse Crain (1.59 ERA, 16 Ks in 11.1 IPs) logged his 5th consecutive scoreless outing since returning from the DL, pitching ahead of Matt Thornton and Addison Reed in the White Sox victory on Thursday. Hierarchy change: Jesse Crain to 2nd in line, replacing Nate Jones.
Cincinnati Reds – With Aroldis Chapman and Jose Arredondo unavailable, the Reds played match-ups in the late-innings on Thursday. Sean Marshall pitched the 8th, and Logan Ondrusek pitched the 9th for his second save of the year. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Tyler Clippard/Craig Stammen, Washington Nationals – A true favorite has yet to emerge in the Nationals’ closer-by-committee. Sean Burnett is having the best season (0.71 ERA) but Tyler Clippard or Craig Stammen could snag a save on any night.
2. Nick Hagadone, Cleveland Indians – Chris Perez and Vinnie Pestano have both pitched in three consecutive games.
May 24, 2012
St. Louis Cardinals – Mark Rzepczynski pitched the 8th inning ahead of Jason Motte on Wednesday night, and the lefty has proven the ability to pitch to both righties and lefties. Hierarchy change: Mark Rzepczynski to 2nd in line, replacing Fernando Salas.
Cincinnati Reds – Jose Arredondo pitched 1.1 innings on Wednesday, bridging the gap to closer Aroldis Chapman. Logan Ondrusek has struggled as of late (7.04 ERA in May) and Dusty Baker has been looking to Arredondo more as his late-innings righty. Hierarchy change: Jose Arredondo to 2nd in line, replacing Logan Ondrusek.
Chicago Cubs – Rafael Dolis gave up three runs in a non-save situation on Wednesday. Dolis, whose stats look uglier every day (24.2 IPs, 4.74 ERA, 10 Ks/13 BBs), could be removed from the role if he continues to struggle, particularly if the Cubs want to give Carlos Marmol another crack at the job when he returns. Rafael Dolis to Hot Seat.
Colorado Rockies – Adam Ottavino pitched the 7th inning in a close game on Wednesday, and now has 6 scoreless innings with 9 Ks since being called up. Hierarchy change: Adam Ottavino to 2nd in line, replacing Matt Reynolds.
Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri struck three men out in the 11th inning, nailing down his first career save. Frieri has been nothing short of dazzling (8.2 IPs, 0 ERs, 0 hits, 19 Ks) since being acquired from the Padres. While Mike Scioscia said he would still like to use Scott Downs in the 9th on occasion, Frieri’s dominance means he’ll get the majority of the opportunities going forward. Hierarchy change: Ernesto Frieri to Closer, Scott Downs to Set-up.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Sean Marshall/Jose Arredondo, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman has pitched in two straight and four of the last five. The Reds could give him a night off and play match-ups in the ninth.
2. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri has pitched in two straight and four of the last six, while Scott Downs has only pitched twice in that span. Downs could get the save opportunity tonight, particularly if facing a lefty-heavy lineup.
May 23, 2012
Washington Nationals – Davey Johnson said before Tuesday’s game that he was moving Henry Rodriguez to a “less demanding” role, and that he’d use a closer-by-committee for the 9th inning. Johnson said he was going to keep Tyler Clippard as his high-leverage set-up guy, but Johnson ended up giving the first save opportunity to the righty, who expressed a strong desire to close before the game. ”I want it bad,” he said. With two saves in the past week and a little experience in the role last year, Sean Burnett (0.71 ERA) still has the inside track to get the most opportunities, and Craig Stammen could also in the mix. But the next save opportunity will be key; if Clippard is the 9th-inning man again, then it’s probable that Johnson has taken his words to heart, and the long-time set-up man could be the new closer going forward. Hierarchy change: Sean Burnett to Closer, Tyler Clippard to Set-up, Craig Stammen to 2nd in line.
Colorado Rockies – Rex Brothers, who closed for a short time last year but has struggled throughout 2012, was sent to the minors on Tuesday. Matt Belisle (2.86 ERA, 17 Ks/2 BBs) is the most likely candidate for 8th inning work. Hierarchy change: Matt Belisle to Set-up, Matt Reynolds to 2nd in line.
Arizona Diamondbacks – JJ Putz blew his third save of the season on Tuesday, raising his ERA to an ugly 7.20. David Hernandez (2.25 ERA, 29 Ks in 20 IPs) proved to be a solid fill-in closer last year and would get the first chance to close if the D’Backs look elsewhere. JJ Putz to Hot Seat.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Tyler Clippard/Craig Stammen, Washington Nationals – As noted above, Sean Burnett is the favorite to get the most opportunities in Washington’s closer by committee, but Tyler Clippard or Craig Stammen could snag a save on any night.
2. Edward Mujica/Steve Cishek, Miami Marlins – Heath Bell has pitched three days in a row, and in four of the last five.
3. David Hernandez, Arizona Diamondbacks – JJ Putz blew a save in a 26-pitch outing on Tuesday. While he won’t lose the job yet, he could get the day off today.
4. Sergio Romo/Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Over the past two days, Santiago Casilla has thrown 3 innings and 43 pitches and could get the night off.
May 22, 2012
Washington Nationals – Henry Rodriguez had to be bailed out again on Monday, as Sean Burnett came in for the 9th inning and got the final two outs for the save. The young righty, already on the Hot Seat, may be placed in to a committee, or worse. ”I’m going to sleep on it, but I’m looking at other alternatives,” Davey Johnson told the Washington Post. Johnson mentioned a possible closer-by-committee, which would likely involve Rodriguez, Burnett and Tyler Clippard. No hierarchy change.
Cincinnati Reds – Sean Marshall got a one-out save on Monday. As noted in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch, Aroldis Chapman had pitched in four of the last five, and had the night off. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Franklin Morales, Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves and Vicente Padilla have both pitched three games in a row, and four of the last five.
May 21, 2012
Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde is still day-to-day with a sore back and Joaquin Benoit recorded a shaky save in his place on Sunday. No hierarchy change.
Seattle Mariners – The Mariners summoned Charlie Furbush in the 7th inning on Sunday, whereupon he pitched a clean inning with 2 Ks. The lefty, a former starting pitcher, has shown the ability to pitch out of the bullpen to both lefties and righties. Hierarchy change: Charlie Furbush to 2nd in line, replacing Steve Delabar.
Cincinnati Reds – Dusty Baker said before Sunday’s game that Aroldis Chapman was his new closer, then sent him out for the 9th inning against the Yankees where the hard-throwing lefty recorded his first save. Logan Ondrusek and Sean Marshall will share eighth-inning duties. Hierarchy change: Aroldis Chapman to Closer, Sean Marshall to Set-up.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Logan Ondrusek/Sean Marshall, Cincinnati Reds – Aroldis Chapman has pitched in two straight games and four of the last five, throwing 76 pitches over that span. Dusty Baker said he will play matchups in the event that Chapman is unavailable, with Logan Ondrusek facing righties and Sean Marshall facing lefties.
2. Vicente Padilla, Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves has pitched in two straight and three of the last four, throwing 54 pitches over that span.
May 20, 2012
Cincinnati Reds – Sean Marshall had to be bailed out again yesterday, as Jose Arredondo was summoned to record the game’s final two outs. After the game, Dusty Baker told the Cincinnati Enquirer that he was considering giving the closer job to Aroldis Chapman. ”Who knows – maybe graduation time is here?” Baker said of Chapman. ”We’re got to discuss it, talk about it.” Even if Marshall keeps the job, he’ll remain on a blazing Hot Seat, but the Reds clearly could look elsewhere sooner rather than later. No hierarchy change.
Houston Astros – Brandon Lyon, who is completely healthy for the first time in a while, has been solid all month, lowering his ERA to 1.76. With Fernando Rodriguez unavailable, Lyon pitched the 8th inning yesterday, setting up for Brett Myers. Hierarchy change: Brandon Lyon to 2nd in line, replacing Wilton Lopez.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Luis Ayala, Baltimore Orioles – Jim Johnson threw 21 pitches in his outing yesterday, his fourth game out of the last five. Pedro Strop has also pitched in four of the last five, including the last three games in a row.
May 19, 2012
Los Angeles Angels – On Friday, Scott Downs pitched the 8th inning in a 2-run game, and Ernesto Frieri came out for the 9th. By then, the Angels had tacked on 3 additional runs, so it wasn’t a save opportunity, but Mike Scioscia told the Orange County Registerafter the game that the 9th inning role was in flux. “We’re going to mix and match a little bit,” Scioscia said. “It’s really just a matchup situation. It might change tomorrow.” Based on their usage and Scioscia’s comments, Frieri appears to be on the verge of winning the permanent job. Scott Downs to Hot Seat.
Baltimore Orioles – Pedro Strop picked up a save in the 11th inning on Friday. As noted in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch, Jim Johnson had pitched three nights in a row and had a day off. No hierarchy change.
Chicago White Sox – Nate Jones pitched the 8th inning in a one-run game on Friday. While Robin Ventura still hasn’t declared that he’s moving away from the closer-by-committee he first established a few weeks ago, Addison Reed has been the only one getting save chances. Meanwhile, Hector Santiago has been relegated to an early innings/mop-up role, while Jones and his 99 mph fastball have been called on in some tight spots. Hierarchy change: Nate Jones to 2nd in line, replacing Hector Santiago.
Chicago Cubs – Kerry Wood retired on Friday. Shawn Camp (2.70 ERA) will take his place as the right-handed set-up man in the Cubs bullpen. Hierarchy change: Shawn Camp to 2nd in line, replacing Kerry Wood.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde, day-to-day with a strained back, was expected to return for the weekend series, but Jim Leyland said Friday that he was still ailing, and that Joaquin Benoit would get save chances in his absence.
2. Mike Adams, Texas Rangers – Joe Nathan has pitched in four consecutive games.
3. Sergio Romo/Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Santiago Casilla has pitched in two consecutive games, and in four of the last five.
4. David Hernandez, Arizona Diamondbacks – JJ Putz has pitched in back to back games, and in three of the last four.
May 18, 2012
Seattle Mariners – Brandon League blew his third save of the season on Thursday. While his ERA remains at a respectable 3.12, his peripherals (1.44 WHIP, 10 Ks, 10 BBs) are troubling, and the Mariners could look elsewhere if League’s struggles continue. Brandon League to Hot Seat.
Boston Red Sox – Vicente Padilla has three holds this week, and has pitched just ahead of Alfredo Aceves in all three games. Hierarchy change: Vicente Padilla to Set-up, Franklin Morales to 2nd in line.
Toronto Blue Jays – Jason Frasor picked up his second hold of the week on Thursday, and has been used regularly in high leverage spots. Francisco Cordero has been held out of close games as the Jays aim to rebuild his confidence. Hierarchy change: Jason Frasor to Set-up, Francisco Cordero to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Mike Adams/Alexi Ogando, Texas Rangers – Joe Nathan has pitched in three consecutive games.
2. Pedro Strop, Baltimore Orioles – Jim Johnson has pitched in three consecutive games.
May 17, 2012
Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek was the first man out of the pen on Thursday, and failed to get out of the 7th inning. Ever since throwing 52 pitches in a 3-inning appearance earlier this month, Cishek has been shaky (3.2 innings, 2 ER, 7 hits). Hierarchy change: Edward Mujica to Set-up, Steve Cishek to 2nd in line.
New York Mets – Three days ago, Jon Rauch was on the verge of being named the Mets new closer. But after last night’s meltdown (0.1 innings, 3 ERs), Rauch’s ERA has jumped to 9.00 for the month of May. Terry Collins will likely look to Bobby Parnell if Frank Francisco continues to falter. Hierarchy change: Bobby Parnell to Set-up, Jon Rauch to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Mike Adams, Texas Rangers – Joe Nathan has pitched on back to back nights, and in three of the last four.
2. Tyler Clippard, Washington Nationals – Henry Rodriguez has pitched in four of the last five games, throwing 72 pitches in that span.
May 16, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Hector Santiago pitched in the 9th inning on Tuesday when the White Sox were down 4 runs. Though he’s supposedly part of a closer-by-committee in Chicago, Addison Reed and Matt Thornton both seem positioned to get more opportunities than the young lefty. Hierarchy change: Matt Thornton to Set-up, Hector Santiago to 2nd in line.
Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde pitched to five hitters in the 9th inning on Tuesday before exiting with a sore back. Octavio Dotel got a one-out save in his place, and Valverde said after the game that he was day-to-day. No hierarchy change.
New York Yankees – David Robertson was placed on the 15-day DL with a left oblique strain. Rafael Soriano will close until he returns. Hierarchy change: David Robertson to DL, Rafael Soriano to Closer, Cory Wade to Setup, Boone Logan to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde tweaked his back in Tuesday’s game and is day-to-day.
2. Sergio Romo/Javier Lopez, San Francisco Giants – Santiago Casilla has pitched in back-to-back games- throwing 41 pitches total- and in three of the last four. The Giants could play match-ups in the 9th inning tonight.
May 15, 2012
Washington Nationals – Henry Rodriguez walked three men in the 9th on Monday before being replaced by Sean Burnett, who got the save. Davey Johnson told the Washington Post that he still had a lot of confidence in Rodriguez, though the closer remains firmly on the Hot Seat. Burnett’s usage, meanwhile, has been a bit odd. He’s been used sparingly, but has a 0.90 ERA and could be a candidate for saves down the line should Rodriguez continue to falter. Hierarchy change: Sean Burnett to 2nd in line, replacing Ryan Mattheus.
New York Yankees – Rafael Soriano picked up his 2nd save last night, as David Robertson revealed he has been dealing with a nagging injury since Friday. The young closer doesn’t think it’s too serious, but he will undergo an MRI today. No hierarchy change.
Kansas City Royals – Greg Holland returned from the DL over the weekend and resumed his 8th inning duties. Hierarchy change: Greg Holland to Set-up, Aaron Crow to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Rafael Soriano, New York Yankees – With David Robertson ailing, the Yankees will look to Soriano for save opportunities.
2. Tyler Clippard, Washington Nationals – Henry Rodriguez has pitched in three straight, and in four of the last five.
3. Chad Qualls/Antonio Bastardo, Philadelphia Phillies – Jonathon Papelbon has pitched on three consecutive nights.
4. Hector Santiago/Matt Thornton, Chicago White Sox – Addison Reed has thrown 50 pitches over the last two days.
5. Jon Rauch, New York Mets – Frank Francisco has pitched two days in a row, and in three of the last four, and the Mets could give the beleaguered closer the night off.
May 14, 2012
New York Mets – Frank Francisco blew another save on Sunday, allowing 3 runs without recording an out. His ERA ballooned to 8.56, and Terry Collins was noncommittal about the Mets’ closer role going forward, saying he would discuss it before Monday’s game. Even if Francisco keeps his job, he’ll remain firmly on the Hot Seat, but if Collins looks elsewhere, Jon Rauch should get the first chance. No hierarchy change.
Chicago Cubs – Carlos Marmol was placed on the DL over the weekend, and on Sunday, Kerry Wood pitched the 8th inning in a 3-run game. Hierarchy change: Carlos Marmol to DL, Kerry Wood to 2nd in line.
Washington Nationals – Henry Rodriguez blew his third save of the season in dramatic fashion on Sunday, allowing a walk-off grand slam to Joey Votto. His ERA is now 4.70. Henry Rodriguez to Hot Seat.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Tyler Clippard, Washington Nationals – Henry Rodriguez threw 28 pitches in blowing the save yesterday, the second day in a row that he’s worked. He could get the night off.
May 13, 2012
Boston Red Sox – While he doesn’t have the best numbers, the Red Sox have continued to look to Vicente Padilla in close games. He pitched the 8th inning yesterday, setting up for Alfredo Aceves. Hierarchy change: Vicente Padilla to 2nd in line, replacing Matt Albers.
Pittsburgh Pirates – Juan Cruz picked up the save on Saturday, as Joel Hanrahan was on the bereavement list due to the death of his grandmother. Hanrahan is expected to return to the team today. No hierarchy change.
New York Yankees – Boone Logan picked up a save yesterday, throwing 1.1 innings in a game where the Yankees had a four-run lead. No hierarchy change.
Oakland A’s – Brian Fuentes picked up the save last night in what initially appeared to be a match-up play; three of the four Tigers hitters due up that inning were lefties. But early this morning, Bob Melvin told the Oakland Tribune that Fuentes was his man for the foreseeable future. ”We’ll give Balfour a bit of a break,” he said. Hierarchy change: Brian Fuentes to Closer, Grant Balfour to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Luis Ayala, Baltimore Orioles – Jim Johnson and Pedro Strop have both pitched on three consecutive days, and could both be given the day off.
2. Franklin Morales, Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves has pitched on three consecutive days.
May 12, 2012
New York Mets – Frank Francisco blew the save last night and took the loss. Jon Rauch has been pitching well and got the save when Francisco was unavailable on Tuesday. If Francisco continues to struggle Rauch could see more save opportunities. Frank Francisco to Hot Seat.
Los Angeles Angels – The injury to Scott Downs is not serious and he should avoid a trip to the DL. He will take over as the closer again now that he is healthy. Hierarchy change: Scott Downs to closer, Ernesto Frieri to Set-up, Jordan Walden to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Juan Cruz, Pittsburgh Pirates – Joel Hanrahan is not expected back until Sunday at the earliest so Juan Cruz should get the call if there is a save opportunity.
2. James Russell, Chicago Cubs – Rafael Dolis worked two innings and threw 41 innings last night so he might get the day off on Saturday. James Russell would likely replace Dolis for the day.
May 11, 2012
Chicago White Sox – White Sox GM Kenny Williams told CSNChicago.com that Chris Sale was being moved back to the rotation. Apparently, after being sent to the bullpen, Sale called Williams and asked for one more shot at starting, and Williams agreed. Williams said that Addison Reed will be the closer. Hierarchy change: Addison Reed to Closer, Hector Santiago to Set-up, Matt Thornton to 2nd in line.
Miami Marlins – Ozzie Guillen before Friday’s game told several Florida newspapers that the club was better with Heath Bell in the closer role. While he dodged a question about whether Bell would be closing tonight, he then went on to say: “He’s our closer. Let’s see what happens when he is back there.” Guillen also said Steve Cishek would not be closing tonight. Hierarchy change: Heath Bell to Closer, Steve Cishek to Set-up, Edward Mujica to 2nd in line.
Washington Nationals – Ryan Mattheus pitched the 7th inning on Thursday ahead of Tyler Clippard and Henry Rodriguez and picked up his 5th hold of the season. Hierarchy change: Ryan Mattheus to 2nd in line, replacing Sean Burnett.
New York Yankees – As noted in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch, David Robertson was unavailable on Thursday. Rafael Soriano got the save in his place, allowing one run in the 9th. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Juan Cruz, Pittsburgh Pirates – Joel Hanrahan has been placed on the bereavement list and will miss several games. When he was injured earlier this year, Juan Cruz got the save opportunities in his absence, and should be the first choice to close for the Pirates over the next few days.
May 10, 2012
Cincinnati Reds – Sean Marshall had a rough outing yesterday and was lifted by Dusty Baker in favor of Logan Ondrusek, who got the game’s final out and the save. Marshall has been serviceable as closer this year; he has a 4.91 ERA and is 5 for 6 in save opportunities (for yesterday’s meltdown, he actually got a hold). But set-up men Aroldis Chapman and Ondrusek are both sporting perfect 0.00 ERAs, and some fans in Cincinnati are already clamoring for a switch. Sean Marshall to Hot Seat.
Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek blew his first save chance yesterday since being installed as closer. Prior to the game, he’d only given up 1 earned run in 14 innings, but with the Marlins 9th inning role still in flux, Ozzie Guillen could give Edward Mujica a shot sooner rather than later. Steve Cishek to Hot Seat.
Los Angeles Dodgers – Javy Guerra’s demotion seems to have dropped him several spots down the Dodgers bullpen hierarchy; Josh Lindblom pitched the 8th inning in a close game last night. Hierarchy change: Josh Lindblom to Set-up, Javy Guerra to 2nd in line.
Toronto Blue Jays – The Blue Jays just announced that they have demoted Francisco Cordero, and that Casey Janssen would be the team’s closer until Sergio Santos returns, according to the Toronto Star. Janssen pitched a clean 9th in his first opportunity on Wednesday; Santos will likely be out at least another two weeks. Hierarchy change: Casey Janssen to Closer, Francisco Cordero to Set-up.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Rafael Soriano, New York Yankees – Joe Girardi said that David Robertson will have the night off tonight. Robertson has pitched two games in a row, including a rough blown save last night.
2. Mike Adams, Texas Rangers – The Rangers and Orioles have a doubleheader today, and if Joe Nathan gets the save in game one, the Rangers could look to Adams in game two.
3. Pedro Strop, Baltimore Orioles – Ditto for the Orioles if Jim Johnson gets the save in game one.
May 9, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Closer Chris Sale was summoned in the 8th inning on Tuesday, and was lifted in the 9th after surrendering the lead; Addison Reed eventually got the save in the 10th. Robin Ventura said after the game that he’d intended to use Sale for a 2-inning save and that the lefty was still the closer, but after the game, pitching coach Don Cooper had some cryptic remarks about Sale’s future. Cooper, speaking to the Chicago Sun-Times, likened Sale to Neftali Feliz, who the Rangers had given a few extra days between starts, and suggested that Sale could quickly and easily be moved back to the rotation. Sale also told the Sun-Times that he wants to start again, and if he does, Reed could be poised to seize the job. Even if Sale isn’t yo-yo-ed back, another bad outing or two could see Reed (0.00 ERA, 12 Ks in 9 IPs) surpass him. Hierarchy change: Addison Reed to Set-up, Hector Santiago to 2nd in line. Chris Sale to Hot Seat.
New York Mets – As noted in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch, Frank Francisco had pitched on three consecutive nights, and Jon Rauch got the save in his absence. No hierarchy change.
Toronto Blue Jays – Francisco Cordero blew a save in ugly fashion last night, allowing 5 earned runs including a walk-off grand slam. Injured closer Sergio Santos has begun a rehab program, but is likely still two weeks away from returning. Another bad outing or two by Cordero, and he may not hold the job until Santos’s return. Francisco Cordero to Hot Seat.
San Diego Padres – Dale Thayer collected his 2nd save in as many days for the Padres on Tuesday, who opted to use Andrew Cashner in the 8th inning and Luke Gregerson in the 7th. Cashner’s meltdown on Sunday appears to have cost him, as Thayer, who has 173 career minor league saves, has inherited the closer role in Huston Street’s absence. Hierarchy change: Dale Thayer to Closer, Andrew Cashner to Set-up.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Andrew Cashner, San Diego Padres – Dale Thayer threw 25 pitches yesterday, his second consecutive day of work and fourth outing in the last five days.
2. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde threw 31 pitches yesterday, and has pitched in four of the last five games.
3. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Downs is making a quick recovery from his injury, and Mike Scioscia said that Downs will return to the mound– and presumably, the closer’s role– whenever he feels up to it.
May 8, 2012
Cleveland Indians – As predicted in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch, Chris Perez and Vinnie Pestano were both held out of Cleveland’s doubleheader on Monday, and Cleveland went to young lefty Nick Hagadone in the first game. Tony Sipp got the save in game 2, but Hagadone (1.08 ERA) has been the Indians most impressive middle reliever as of late. Hierarchy change: Nick Hagadone to 2nd in line, replacing Joe Smith.
Boston Red Sox – Vicente Padilla recorded a 2.2 inning save yesterday in a game the Red Sox won comfortably. No hierarchy change.
San Diego Padres – As noted yesterday, Andrew Cashner was given the night off after a long outing on Sunday, but the Padres opted to use Dale Thayer in the 9th inning, leaving Luke Gregerson in the 8th inning role. Should Cashner falter again, it could be Thayer (173 career minor league saves) who nabs the most opportunities in Huston Street’s absence. Hierarchy change: Dale Thayer to Set-up, Luke Gregerson to 2nd in line.
Los Angeles Dodgers – Don Mattingly before Monday’s series opener said that he was removing Javy Guerra from the closer role. Kenley Jansen will close in his place, Mattingly said. Hierarchy change: Kenley Jansen to Closer, Javy Guerra to Set-up.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jon Rauch, New York Mets – Frank Francisco has pitched on three consecutive nights.
2. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Downs is making a quick recovery from his injury, and the Angels have opted not to put him on the disabled list. Mike Scioscia said that Downs will return to the mound– and presumably, the closer’s role– whenever he feels up to it.
May 7, 2012
Los Angeles Dodgers – Javy Guerra blew another save on Sunday, and for the first time, manager Don Mattingly expressed wavering confidence in the righty, saying that he’d have to keep looking at the closer role. Guerra will likely get one more shot to close before being benched, though he remains firmly on the Hot Seat and is a good bet to lose his job with one more blown save. No hierarchy change.
San Diego Padres – Despite throwing 100+ mph gas all night, Andrew Cashner was knocked around on Sunday, giving up 4 earned runs in a tie game in the 8th inning. He’s still likely the Padres go-to guy while Huston Street recovers, but could quickly lose that distinction if he falters again. Andrew Cashner to Hot Seat.
Miami Marlins – As noted in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch, Steve Cishek threw 52 pitches over 3 innings on Friday and was again unavailable on Sunday, so the Marlins went to Edward Mujica for the save in the 9th. No hierarchy change.
Atlanta Braves – For the second day in a row, the Braves had a comfortable late-inning lead, and a long reliever notched a save; this time, it was Cristhian Martinez, who pitched 2.2 clean innings in the blowout. No hierarchy change.
Los Angeles Angels – Scott Downs was helped off the field after sustaining an apparent knee injury in the 9th inning on Sunday. He will undergo evaluation, but he was spotted on crutches after the game, so he’s likely to miss at least a few days. LaTroy Hawkins also was injured in the game, and while the Angels did not name a new closer, Mike Scioscia appears to be reluctant to give the closer job back to Jordan Walden, instead mentioning Ernesto Frieri as a possible candidate. Hierarchy change: Scott Downs injured, Ernesto Frieri to Closer, Jason Isringhausen to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joe Smith/Tony Sipp, Cleveland Indians – Both closer Chris Perez and set-up man Vinnie Pestano have pitched in 4 of the last 5 games, and the Indians have a doubleheader today, meaning 7th-inning men Joe Smith and Tony Sipp could get save opportunities.
2. James Russell/Kerry Wood, Chicago Cubs – Rafael Dolis pitched 2 innings yesterday, and has pitched in 4 out of the last 5 games.
3. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde has pitched on three consecutive days.
4. Luke Gregerson, San Diego Padres – Andrew Cashner threw 39 pitches in a rough outing yesterday and could have the night off.
5. Franklin Morales, Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves has pitched 4.2 innings over the past three days, throwing 69 pitches in the process.
May 6, 2012
Atlanta Braves – Livan Hernandez came in when the Braves were up by 3 runs in the 8th inning, then stayed after they scored again in the 9th for the 2-inning save. No hierarchy change.
Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri, recently acquired from the Padres, was handed a 4-run lead in the 9th inning and was dominant, striking out the side against the Blue Jays. Frieri has a 2.13 ERA and 21 Ks in just 12.2 innings and should quickly establish himself as a key part of the Angels bullpen. Hierarchy change: Ernesto Frieri to 2nd in line, replacing LaTroy Hawkins.
Chicago White Sox – Chris Sale doesn’t embark on his new role as closer until Monday, so the White Sox, up by one run in the 9th, called on Hector Santiago. But Santiago struggled, allowing two baserunners, and Addison Reed came in to bail him out for the one-out save. No hierarchy change.
San Diego Padres – The Padres will place Huston Street on the disabled list after he suffered a right posterior shoulder strain on Friday. After being hurt last night, Street said he didn’t think the injury was too serious, but perhaps that was wishful thinking; Andrew Cashner will close in his stead, and Bud Black said that Luke Gregerson and Dale Thayer could also see occasional opportunities. Hierarchy change: Huston Street to DL, Andrew Cashner to Closer, Luke Gregerson to Set-up, Dale Thayer to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Hector Santiago/Matt Thornton/Addison Reed, Chicago White Sox – Chris Sale doesn’t start closing until tomorrow, and over the past two days, Robin Ventura has played matchups to determine his 9th inning man, with Santiago, Thornton, and Reed all getting opportunities.
2. Edward Mujica, Miami Marlins – After the demotion of Heath Bell, the permanent closer job likely belongs Steve Cishek, but Cishek threw 52 pitches over 3 innings on Friday, and could be given a second day off to rest up.
May 5, 2012
Philadelphia Phillies – Jose Contreras has struggled since returning from the disabled list, and was used early in the game on Friday. Antonio Bastardo was called on in the 7th, and he pitched a clean inning. Hierarchy change: Antonio Bastardo to 2nd in line, replacing Jose Contreras.
Boston Red Sox – Vicente Padilla was unable to hold a 1-run lead in the 7th inning on Friday, and now as an 8.38 ERA. Matt Albers (2 ER in 14 IPs) came on and preserved a tie game in the 8th and the 9th inning. Hierarchy change: Matt Albers to 2nd in line, replacing Vicente Padilla.
Colorado Rockies – Matt Belisle pitched a clean 7th inning on Friday, preserving a tie game for the Rockies; Edgmer Escalona took the loss in extras. Hierarchy change: Matt Belisle to 2nd in line, replacing Edgmer Escalona.
Baltimore Orioles – Luis Ayala pitched two innings in a tie game Friday, and has now gone 13 innings without allowing a run this season. He’s surpassed Matt Lindstrom on the depth chart. Hierarchy change: Luis Ayala to 2nd in line, replacing Matt Lindstrom.
Tampa Bay Rays – Joel Peralta recorded a one-out save on Friday. As noted in the vulture save watch, Fernando Rodney had been used a lot lately, so he was given a night off. No hierarchy change.
Miami Marlins – Heath Bell just blew his 4th save in 7 chances, prompting manager Ozzie Guillen to say after the game that he had do something about the closer role, and that he couldn’t wait around any longer. Steve Cishek has out-pitched Edward Mujica so far this season, and is in line to inherit the job. Hierarchy change: Steve Cishek to Closer, Heath Bell to 2nd in line.
Chicago White Sox – Chris Sale has been moved from the starting rotation to the bullpen and will immediately take over as closer. Chris Sale experienced elbow soreness after his last start and the White Sox decided a move to the bullpen would be better for his health. Sale will be given a few days off and will start closing on Monday in Cleveland. Hierarchy change: Chris Sale to Closer, Hector Santiago to Set-up, Matt Thornton to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Andrew Cashner, San Diego Padres – Huston Street left Friday’s game early and was diagnosed with a posterior shoulder strain. He said the injury was minor– earlier this season, a similar injury pulled Nick Blackburn out of a game, but he didn’t miss a start– but Street, who will have an MRI today, will probably be given at least a day or two off.
2. Edward Mujica, Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek appears to be the man for the Marlins now that Ozzie Guillen is finally pulling the plug on Heath Bell, but Cishek threw 51 pitches yesterday in a 3-inning effort. Edward Mujica could see the save opportunity tonight.
3. Hector Santiago/Matt Thornton, Chicago White Sox – Chris Sale is the new closer in for the White Sox, but he won’t be called upon until Monday. Hector Santiago or Matt Thornton will get 9th inning chances until then.
4. James Russell/Kerry Wood, Chicago Cubs – New closer Rafael Dolis has pitched on three consecutive days, so Dale Sveum will likely play the match-ups to determine his 9th inning man tonight.
5. Tyler Clippard, Washington Nationals – Henry Rodriguez has pitched on three consecutive nights.
6. Vinnie Pestano, Cleveland Indians – Chris Perez has pitched on three consecutive nights.
7. Franklin Morales, Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves threw 38 pitches in a 2.2 inning outing on Friday.
May 4, 2012
Miami Marlins – Edward Mujica got the save Thursday afternoon, as Heath Bell was unavailable. Ozzie Guillen insisted before the game that Bell, despite a disastrous first month, is still the closer in Miami. No hierarchy change.
New York Yankees – Mariano Rivera tore his ACL while shagging fly balls during warmups before Thursday’s game. He’s out for the year and his career may be over. Rafael Soriano was used in the 8th inning yesterday with the Yankees down by a run, leaving little doubt that it will be David Robertson who steps in and attempts to fill Rivera’s big shoes. Hierarchy change: Mariano Rivera to DL, David Robertson to Closer, Rafael Soriano to Setup, Cory Wade to 2nd in line.
Chicago Cubs – Carlos Marmol had another terrible outing today and after the game Manager Dale Sveum said he is definitely thinking about removing Marmol as closer. Sveum mentioned Rafael Dolis and James Russell as potential replacements. Dolis should get the first shot as he was brought on today to try and clean up Marmol’s mess. Hierarchy change: Rafael Dolis to Closer, James Russell to set-up, Carlos Marmol to 2nd in Line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joel Peralta, Tampa Bay Rays – Fernando Rodney has pitched on four of the last five days.
2. Ryan Cook/Brian Fuentes, Oakland A’s – Grant Balfour was held out of Wednesday’s game due to heavy use and a nagging back injury. If his back is still keeping him out, the A’s will look to Ryan Cook or Brian Fuentes for the save opportunity.
May 3, 2012
Oakland A’s – Grant Balfour threw 29 pitches in blowing a save on Tuesday, and has been dealing with a sore back, so Brian Fuentes picked up the save in his absence on Wednesday. But while Balfour remains on the Hot Seat, this isn’t an indication that he’s lost his job yet. If his back continues to bother him, Brian Fuentes or Ryan Cook will get save opportunities. No hierarchy change.
Kansas City Royals – Tim Collins has been used in some tight spots lately, and he recorded the win on Wednesday after getting 2 outs in a tie game in the 8th inning. Hierarchy change: Tim Collins to 2nd in line, replacing Jose Mijares.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Edward Mujica/Steve Cishek, Miami Marlins – Heath Bell blew another save last night, and for the first time, Ozzie Guillen indicated that he may have to look elsewhere for the 9th inning role. Whether or not Guillen anoints a new closer remains to be seen, but either way, Bell is almost certain to get the day off today, giving Edward Mujica or Steve Cishek the chance to nab a save.
May 2, 2012
Oakland A’s – Grant Balfour was summoned in a four-run game, but couldn’t close the door on the Red Sox, allowing two runs before being yanked; Jordan Norberto got the save in his absence. Given set-up man Ryan Cook’s astonishing season thus far (12 innings, 0 runs, 1 hit), the A’s might be growing impatient with Balfour, who had already blown two of this last three save opps before Tuesday. Grant Balfour to Hot Seat.
New York Mets – Terry Collins indicated at the start of the season that Miguel Batista would be his man on any night that both Frank Francisco and Jon Rauch were unavailable. But Batista has consistently been the first man out of the bullpen for the Mets, and Bobby Parnell (3.38 ERA, 15/2 K/BB ratio) has been quietly solid. Hierarchy change: Bobby Parnell to 2nd in line, replacing Miguel Batista.
Houston Astros – Wilton Lopez, who pitched parts of the 7th and 8th innings last night, has surpassed veteran Brandon Lyon on the Astros depth chart. Hierarchy change: Wilton Lopez to 2nd in line, replacing Brandon Lyon.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joel Peralta, Tampa Bay Rays – Fernando Rodney has pitched on three straight nights. Peralta could get the save opp on Wednesday.
2. Chad Qualls, Philadelphia Phillies – Jonathon Papelbon has pitched on back to back nights, and in three of the last four. The Phillies could look to Qualls in the 9th today.
May 1, 2012
Los Angeles Angels – The ageless LaTroy Hawkins is sporting a 1.17 ERA and bridged the gap to new closer Scott Downs on Monday. Hierarchy change: LaTroy Hawkins to 2nd in line, replacing Jason Isringhausen.
Colorado Rockies – Edgmer Escalona has been used as the late-innings righty out of the Rockies bullpen over the past week, helping to bridge the gap to Rafael Betancourt twice in the last two days. Hierarchy change: Edgmer Escalona to 2nd in line, replacing Matt Belisle.
Miami Marlins – Heath Bell pitched in a non-save situation and was, again, terrible, allowing the Diamondbacks to score two late insurance runs. Scouts say his velocity is down, and a big contract can’t protect his job forever. Heath Bell to Hot Seat.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jon Rauch, New York Mets – Frank Francisco has a tight hamstring and was unavailable Monday. He’s day to day and could be out today as well.
2. Joel Peralta, Tampa Bay Rays – Fernando Rodney has pitched in back to back games, throwing a total of 44 pitches.
3. Edward Mujica, Miami Marlins – Heath Bell got bombed again yesterday and Ozzie Guillen might give him a night off tonight.
April 30, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Matt Thornton’s save last night against the heart of the Red Sox order was explained by Robin Ventura as a matchup-based decision. “Nothing against Hector, he still will be in there in the ninth.” Savvy fantasy owners know, though, that Santiago’s leash is growing shorter and shorter. No hierarchy change.
Los Angeles Dodgers – As predicted in Sunday’s Vulture Save Watch, Kenley Jansen collected the save for the Dodgers, striking out the side with two walks. Don Mattingly stressed after the game that he intends to keep Javy Guerra in the closer role, however. No hierarchy change.
Toronto Blue Jays – Before Sunday’s game, manager John Farrell explicitly identified Casey Janssen as the team’s set-up man, and proved it by using him in a high-leverage eighth. Luis Perez didn’t make the choice difficult, with a four-run tenth on Friday. Hierarchy change: Casey Janssen to Set-Up, Luis Perez to 2nd in Line.
Chicago Cubs – Another astonishingly bad outing by Carlos Marmol on Sunday, who responded to a four-run lead by loading the bases and walking in a run before inducing a game-ending groundout. After the game, Dale Sveum reiterated his support for his closer, but also noted, “You’ve got to be patient, but there’s only so much you be patient with.” Indeed. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Rafael Dolis, Chicago Cubs – As noted, Carlos Marmol had a bad 34-pitch outing and is in line for some rest on Monday. Dolis went on Sunday, but only threw 10 pitches.
2. Jeff Gray, Minnesota Twins – Matt Capps threw 30 pitches in his Sunday save, and because Burton and Perkins each set him up, Jeff Gray has the potential to come out for the Twins’ ninth on Monday.
3. Miguel Batista/Ramon Ramirez, New York Mets – The Mets managed to overcome lousy performances by Jon Rauch and Frank Francisco on Sunday, and they badly need a comfortable win. If the bullpen is called upon again, however, it may be Batista or Ramirez, two who threw relatively few (and effective) pitches yesterday.
April 29, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Matt Thornton got the save today, working a perfect 1.1 innings with 2 Ks. Hector Santiago was warming up in the bullpen in the 9th but Thornton made quick work of the Red Sox to finish the game. Manager Robin Ventura backed Santiago after his last blown save on Wednesday, so it’s hard to say that Thornton is the new closer at this point. Thornton is having a great season and still may be worth having on your roster but it’s not clear if he will be getting all the saves in the future. Closer Monkey will continue to monitor the situation to see what manager Robin Ventura has to say. No hierarchy change.
Los Angeles Dodgers – Josh Lindblom pitched the 8th last night and has been used recently in close game situations in the later innings. Scott Elbert started the 9th because there were two lefties up and it looks like he will be used more as a situational lefty. Ultimately Javy Guerra came on and gave up the go ahead runs. Mattingly may have been trying help his closer out by having Elbert start against the lefties which is a sign that he might be losing faith in Guerra. No closer change yet but it will be interesting to see who gets called on for the next save opportunity. Hierarchy change: Josh Lindblom to 2nd in line, replacing Scott Elbert.
Boston Red Sox – Vincente Padilla came on to record the last out in the 8th with a 1 run lead last night. He has had a couple good appearances since his 5 run meltdown and has re-established himself as a late innings option for the Red Sox. Hierarchy change: Vicente Padilla to 2nd in line, replacing Junichi Tazawa.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Kenley Jansen, Los Angeles Dodgers – Javy Guerra threw 22 pitches giving up the go ahead runs last night and Mattingly may want to give his a closer a mental break on Sunday. Mattingly also may be finally ready to make the move from Guerra to Jansen. Either way there is a pretty good chance that Jansen is brought on for the save if there is an opportunity.
April 28, 2012
Los Angeles Dodgers – Kenley Jansen got the save last night. Manager Don Mattingly said after the game on Wednesday that Guerra was still his guy so he might have just been giving him a day off after taking a line drive off his jaw his last time out. Guerra is already on the hot seat but hasn’t lost his job yet. No hierarchy change.
Chicago Cubs – Rafael Dolis got the 2 inning save last night. Dolis entered in the 8th with a 2 run lead and after the Cubs added 2 more runs to make it a 4 run lead,he came back on for the 9th and finished the game. With Kerry Wood on the disabled list, Dolis is the Cubs’ second-best reliever. Hierarchy change: Kerry Wood to DL, Rafael Dolis to Set-up, James Russell to 2nd in Line.
Atlanta Braves – Kris Medlen got a three inning save last night in a 5 run win. No hierarchy change.
Washington Nationals – Brad Lidge was placed on the disabled list. Tyler Clippard will move into the set-up spot with Sean Burnett moving to second in line. Hierarchy change: Brad Lidge to DL, Tyler Clippard to set-up, Sean Burnett to 2nd in line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Andrew Cashner/Luke Gregerson, San Diego Padres – Huston Street has pitched three days in a row so there’s a good chance he gets the day off Saturday. Cashner has pitched two days in a row including throwing 25 pitches last night so if he is unavailable as well look for Luke Gregerson to get a shot at closing out the game.
April 27, 2012
Los Angeles Angels – Mike Scioscia has decided to give Scott Downs a chance at closing out games. Hierarchy change: Scott Downs to Closer, Jordan Walden to Set-up.
Miami Marlins – Another day, another debacle for big-ticket closer Heath Bell, who blew his third save in five chances with a 46-pitch, four-walk nightmare on Thursday. After the game, Ozzie Guillen gave Bell a vote of confidence as the Miami closer; it seems the Marlins have 27 million reasons to stay the course. No hierarchy change.
Baltimore Orioles – With Jim Johnson hospitalized all week with a mystery illness, the Orioles have had to turn elsewhere in the ninth during their last three games. After two straight saves for Pedro Strop, Thursday was Luis Ayala’s turn. Manager Buck Showalter says Johnson could be released from the hospital Friday “if he can hold the food down.” No hierarchy change.
Boston Red Sox – Junichi Tazawa picked up a three-inning save in last night’s blowout win over the White Sox. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Edward Mujica, Miami Marlins – Ozzie Guillen promised to give Heath Bell the day off on Friday, so if the Marlins need a save, they’ll likely turn to set-up man Mujica.
2. Aroldis Chapman, Cincinnati Reds – Sean Marshall blew his first save of the year on Thursday, and also pitched for the second straight day. Watch for Chapman to get the call in the ninth on Friday, if need be.
3. Andrew Cashner, San Diego Padres – Huston Street has pitched two days in a row, albeit in fairly short outings. There’s a chance he might get Friday off.
April 26, 2012
Los Angeles Dodgers – Javy Guerra blew the save last night and took the loss for the second consecutive game. Guerra has gone 0-2 and only 2/4 in save opportunities in his last 5 games. Kenley Jansen pitched a scoreless 8th and could take Guerra’s job if he continues to pitch poorly. Javy Guerra to Hot Seat.
Chicago White Sox – Hector Santiago blew the save on Wednesday but after the game manager Robin Ventura said he would stick with Santiago as closer. Santiago is already on the hot seat so even with Ventura’s backing after the game, do not be surprised if a change is made soon if Santiago doesn’t figure out to stop giving up homeruns (He’s already given up 4 in 6 .1 innings so far this year). No hierarchy change.
Baltimore Orioles – Jim Johnson remained hospitalized on Wednesday and Pedro Strop again got the save. Johnson is still the closer when he comes back but Strop is definitely the guy to own as Johnson’s backup. No hierarchy change.
Washington Nationals – Tom Gorzelanny got the save last night but it was of the three inning variety as the Nationals won by 5. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Pedro Strop/Matt Lindstrom, Baltimore Orioles – Jim Johnson might still not be over his sickness and the Orioles could go with Strop again who has gotten saves the past two games. Lindstrom also has looked good lately and could be called upon if the Orioles want to give Strop a day off.
April 25, 2012
Baltimore Orioles – Pedro Strop got the save last night as Jim Johnson spent Monday night in a hospital with flulike symptoms and was unavailable. No hierarchy change.
Seattle Mariners – Steve Delabar pitched the 7th with a 2 run lead last night and has been used more often than Lucas Luetge. Hierarchy change: Steve Delabar to 2nd in line, replacing Lucas Luetge.
Los Angeles Dodgers – Matt Guerrier was placed on the DL Tuesday with elbow tendinitis. Scott Elbert pitched the 7th in a tie game and will likely move back into that role. Hierarchy change: Scott Elbert to 2nd in line, replacing Matt Guerrier.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Pedro Strop, Baltimore Orioles – Jim Johnson was unavailable on Monday due to flulike symptoms and if he is still under the weather tonight, Pedro Strop would likely get another save opportunity.
2. Brad Lidge, Washington Nationals – Henry Rodriguez got the save on Tuesday so Brad Lidge could be in line for the next save opportunity.
April 24, 2012
St. Louis Cardinals — For the second straight night, and third in the last four, Mitchell Boggs pitched the 8th in a tight game; he has clearly passed Fernando Salas as the Cards’ top set-up option. Hierarchy change: Mitchell Boggs to Set-up, Fernando Salas to 2nd in line.
Toronto Blue Jays – Casey Janssen hasn’t pitched since he blew a save on April 14, and Jason Frasor has been idle since a 3-run outing on April 19. In the meantime, Luis Perez and Darren Oliver have been getting more work, including high-leverage outings by Perez on April 20 and last night. With Sergio Santos out, the bullpen situation in Toronto remains quite fluid. Hierarchy change: Luis Perez to Set-up, Jason Frasor to 2nd in Line.
Houston Astros — Brandon Lyon has been slipping behind Fernando Rodriguez on the Astros’ depth chart, a fact that was made clearer last night when Brad Mills called upon Lyon to pitch the sixth inning, down three runs. Hierarchy change: Fernando Rodriguez to Set-up, Brandon Lyon to 2nd in Line.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Jason Frasor, Toronto Blue Jays – Francisco Cordero has now pitched on two straight nights, and in three of the last four games. If the Blue Jays need to protect a close lead against the Orioles again on Tuesday, John Farrell will almost certainly go in another direction.
2. Fernando Salas, St. Louis Cardinals — Jason Motte threw 31 pitches before blowing the save last night against the Cubs, and Mitchell Boggs has been getting regular work in the set-up role. Salas is positioned well to steal a save.
April 23, 2012
Boston Red Sox – After Daniel Bard’s turn in the rotation was rained out on Sunday night, Bobby Valentine announced he will use Bard to bolster the back end of the team’s bullpen — but also vowed that Bard will still make his next scheduled start on Friday. Another debacle like Saturday’s, however, and Bard might wrest the closer job from Alfredo Aceves. No hierarchy change.
Kansas City Royals – Greg Holland was placed on the 15-day disabled list Saturday with a “stress reaction” in his ribs. Although the ensuing bone scan showed no fracture, he might be three weeks away from returning to the Royals pen. Lefty José Mijares will likely move to 2nd in line, but young fireballer Jeremy Jeffress could move up quickly if he can harness his stuff. Hierarchy change: Aaron Crow to Set-up, José Mijares to 2nd in Line.
Toronto Blue Jays – With Sergio Santos on the DL, new closer Francisco Cordero picked up a somewhat rocky save in his first day on the job. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Casey Janssen or Jason Frasor, Toronto Blue Jays – Francisco Cordero has pitched in two of the last three games, and if the Blue Jays want to limit his workload, another pitcher might get a shot to close on Monday.
April 22, 2012
Toronto Blue Jays – Sergio Santos was placed on the disabled list on Saturday with right shoulder inflammation; insurance policy Francisco Cordero will step into the role of closer until Santos can return. Hierarchy change: Sergio Santos to DL, Francisco Cordero to Closer, Casey Janssen to Set-up, Jason Frasor to 2nd in Line.
New York Mets – Frank Francisco has given up 6 runs in his last three appearances, and his ERA has ballooned to 8.53. Jon Rauch had to bail him out last night after he blew a save chance, and will be first in line for saves if Francisco continues to struggle. Frank Francisco to Hot Seat.
Boston Red Sox – Junichi Tazawa was the only member of the Red Sox bullpen who was able to get anyone out on Saturday, throwing a clean 1.1 innings. Vicente Padilla gave up 5 runs while only recording one out. Hierarchy change: Junichi Tazawa to 2nd in line, replacing Vicente Padilla.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Vinnie Pestano, Cleveland Indians – Chris Perez has pitched on three consecutive days, and in four of the last five.
April 21, 2012
Washington Nationals – Henry Rodriguez got another save on Friday, and now has four this season to Brad Lidge’s two. Lidge has also been suffering from vertigo which has limited his availability in recent days, and while Davey Johnson continues to maintain that he’ll use both pitchers in the 9th inning, Rodriguez is now the preferable guy to own, if you only have room for one. Hierarchy change: Henry Rodriguez to Closer, Brad Lidge to Set-up.
San Francisco Giants – Santiago Casilla only pitched to one batter in the 9th on Friday, giving up a single before giving way to Javier Lopez, who faced the next two batters (both lefties). The duo combined to blow the save, which was eventually recorded by Clay Hensley in the bottom of the 10th. Bruce Bochy has said that he would use a committee to close games, and he proved his statement true on Friday. Casilla will be a short leash in the future. Santiago Casilla to Hot Seat.
Philadelphia Phillies – Jose Contreras returned from the disabled list yesterday, pitching the 7th inning ahead of Chad Qualls and Jonathan Papelbon. Contreras should continue to be used in this role, as Antonio Bastardo has settled into a LOOGY role as of late. Hierarchy change: Jose Contreras to 2nd in line, replacing Antonio Bastardo.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Brad Lidge, Washington Nationals – With Henry Rodriguez now the listed closer, it’s Brad Lidge’s turn to headline the Vulture Save Watch regularly. Rodriguez got the save yesterday, so if Lidge has kicked his vertigo, it’ll be his turn.
2. Vinnie Pestano, Cleveland Indians – Chris Perez has pitched on two consecutive days, and in three of the last four.
3. Mike Adams/Alexi Ogando, Texas Rangers – The Rangers and Tigers play a doubleheader today, and while Jose Valverde should close both games for the Tigers if necessary, Joe Nathan may not be able to, giving Adams or Ogando a possible opportunity if the Rangers sweep in two close games.
4. Scott Downs, Los Angeles Angels – Jordan Walden pitched yesterday, throwing 27 pitches, two days after throwing 31 pitches on Wednesday. He could get the night off.
April 20, 2012
Minnesota Twins – Jared Burton pitched the 8th inning on Wednesday, logging his second hold of the season. Meanwhile, Jeff Gray appears to have been relegated to a front-end role in the bullpen; he pitched in the 3rd inning on Thursday. Hierarchy change: Jared Burton to 2nd in line, replacing Jeff Gray.
Tampa Bay Rays – JP Howell pitched the 7th inning yesterday while the game was still close. Joe Maddon seems more willing to use Howell to pitch to both righties and lefties, while Jake McGee has settled into more of a LOOGY role. Hierarchy change: JP Howell to 2nd in line, replacing Jake McGee.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Juan Cruz, Pittsburgh Pirates – Joel Hanrahan remains day-to-day with a hamstring injury. If he’s still unable to pitch, Cruz will get the save chance.
2. Tom Wilhelmsen, Seattle Mariners – Brandon League had a rough outing on Thursday, throwing 20 pitches and blowing his first save of the season. It was also the second night he’d pitched in a row, so he could get the night off tonight. Tom Wilhelmsen would close in his place.
April 19, 2012
Pittsburgh Pirates – As noted in yesterday’s vulture save watch, Joel Hanrahan is still sidelined with a mild hamstring injury, allowing Juan Cruz to pick up his second save in as many days. While Hanrahan could return as soon as Friday, the Pirates have shown that Cruz will get any save opportunities when Hanrahan is unavailable, while Jason Grilli remains the 8th inning guy regardless. Hierarchy change: Juan Cruz to Set-up, Jason Grilli to 2nd in line.
Washington Nationals – Henry Rodriguez got the save on Wednesday after Brad Lidge logged the Tuesday save. It’s Lidge’s turn again in the Nats’ strict back-and-forth platoon. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Joaquin Benoit/Phil Coke, Detroit Tigers – Jose Valverde has pitched on back to back days, and in three of the last four. Joaquin Benoit has also been used heavily the past four days, but he or Phil Coke could get a save opp if the Tigers give Valverde the night off.
April 18, 2012
San Francisco Giants – Santiago Casilla recorded the save for the Giants on Tuesday night, and Bruce Bochy indicated that he will get the majority of San Francisco’s save opportunities for the time being. ”We have confidence in Casilla. He’s another guy who throws 95 and gets it done like he did tonight,” said Bochy. While Sergio Romo was, by all measures, one of the best relievers in all of baseball last year, he was hurt late in the season and Bochy may have concerns about his arm strength and ability to pitch on back-to-back nights. The Giants skipper said before the game that this was still a platoon, but that Casilla will get the most save chances at the outset. Hierarchy change: Santiago Casilla to Closer; Sergio Romo to Set-up.
Oakland A’s – Ryan Cook was brought in for the 8th inning, the second consecutive game that he has been used over Brian Fuentes to bridge the gap to Grant Balfour. Cook has yet to allow a run in 5.1 innings so far this season. Hierarchy change: Ryan Cook to Set-up, Brian Fuentes to 2nd in line.
Pittsburgh Pirates – Joel Hanrahan has sustained a mild hamstring injury, and Juan Cruz picked up the save in his absence last night. Hanrahan’s job is not in jeopardy and he is considered day to day, but Cruz has been solid this season, having not allowed any runs through 5 innings so far. Hierarchy change: Juan Cruz to 2nd in line, replacing Evan Meek.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Henry Rodriguez, Washington Nationals – Brad Lidge, our listed closer, got the save on Tuesday. That means Henry Rodriguez will get the next opportunity. Davey Johnson’s strict back-and-forth platoon will only be affected if one of the two righties falters, and so far, neither of them have.
2. Juan Cruz/Jason Grilli, Pittsburgh Pirates – Joel Hanrahan could be out as much as three more days with a balky hamstring. Cruz, who got the save Tuesday, and Grilli, the Pirates 8th inning man all year, are candidates for save opps in his absence.
3. Rex Brothers, Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt threw 20 pitches in recording the save last night, and has pitched on 4 of the last 6 days.
April 17, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Hector Santiago had an ugly outing on Monday, allowing two HRs and blowing the save against the Orioles. It was Santiago’s first blown save this year, but he now has a 6.75 ERA. Given that he won the job at the 11th hour in spring training– and the fact that he’s now got a total of 6 MLB appearances in his career– Robin Ventura will ha him on a short leash. Hector Santiago to Hot Seat.
Los Angeles Angels – Scott Downs returned from his injury last night, pitching a clean 8th inning in a 3-run game. Hierarchy change: Scott Downs to Set-up, Jason Isringhausen to 2nd in line.
Washington Nationals – Henry Rodriguez got the save for the Nationals on Monday. As previously noted, Davey Johnson is using a strict, back-and-forth platoon with Rodriguez and Brad Lidge. Lidge will get the next opportunity. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Chad Qualls, Philadelphia Phillies – Jonathon Papelbon has pitched on back to back nights, throwing 40 pitches in the process.
2. Joel Peralta, Tampa Bay Rays – Fernando Rodney has pitched in two straight games. His pitch count has been low, so the Rays will likely use him again if necessary, but if they decide to give him a night off, Joel Peralta will close.
April 16, 2012
Boston Red Sox – Mark Melancon, sporting a 22.50 ERA so far this year, has fallen out of favor in the Red Sox bullpen. Franklin Morales and Vicente Padilla both pitched well in bridging the gap to Alfredo Aceves on Sunday, and are now both ahead of Melancon on the depth chart. Hierarchy change: Vicente Padilla to 2nd in line, replacing Mark Melancon.
Philadelphia Phillies – Protecting a 1-run lead in the 8th inning on Sunday, the Phillies went to Chad Qualls over Antonio Bastardo. Philadelphia also used Qualls to protect a 2-run lead in the 8th in their last win, on Thursday. Hierarchy change: Chad Qualls to Set-up, Antonio Bastardo to 2nd in line.
Pittsburgh Pirates – Jason Grilli has pitched the 8th inning in four of the last six games for the Pirates. Grilli has surpassed Evan Meek, who struggled during spring training, on the depth chart. Hierarchy change: Jason Grilli to Set-up, Evan Meek to 2nd in line.
Arizona Diamondbacks – JJ Putz was given the day off on Sunday– Bryan Shaw got the save in his place– after giving up a walk-off 2-run HR to the Rockies on Saturday. But Saturday was Putz’s first blown save of the year and his job is not in jeopardy. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Henry Rodriguez, Washington Nationals – Brad Lidge and Henry Rodriguez have both pitched several times since the Nats’ last save opportunity, but it’s still Rodriguez’s turn should one arise.
2. Franklin Morales, Boston Red Sox – Alfredo Aceves has pitched on back to back days and might get Marathon Monday off.
April 15, 2012
San Francisco Giants – Brian Wilson’s season is likely over. After complaining of elbow soreness on Friday night, the Giants sent him for tests, where an MRI showed structural damage to his right elbow. Bruce Bochy said that the Giants will go closer-by-committee at first; on Friday, Santiago Casilla came on and pitched a clean 8th inning in a tie game, then pitched part of the 9th before Javier Lopez finished the inning. The Giants walked off in the bottom half, so there was no save opportunity, but based on their usage both tonight and earlier this season, Sergio Romo is the best bet to seize the permanent job. Hierarchy change: Sergio Romo to Closer, Santiago Casilla to Set-up, Javier Lopez to 2nd in line.
Seattle Mariners – George Sherrill was placed on the disabled list yesterday with elbow soreness. Lefthander Lucas Luetge, reliable in three outings so far, moves up on the depth chart. Hierarchy change: Lucas Luetge to 2nd in line, replacing George Sherrill.
Minnesota Twins – Jeff Gray has established himself as the go-to lefty in the Twins bullpen, and has surpassed Alex Burnett on the depth chart, who thus far is mostly being used in long relief. Hierarchy change: Jeff Gray to 2nd in line, replacing Alex Burnett.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Henry Rodriguez, Washington Nationals – Rodriguez, who is the co-closer for the Nats, may get the next save opp. As noted before, he should be owned in all leagues in case he wins the permanent job.
2. Jonny Venters, Atlanta Braves – Craig Kimbrel has pitched on back-to-back nights, and in four of the last five days. Venters’s usage has been similar, but he hasn’t thrown as many pitches and could get a save opp if the Braves rest Kimbrel.
3. Edward Mujica/Steve Cishek, Miami Marlins – Heath Bell blew the save last night and has pitched on two consecutive days, throwing 46 pitches. The Marlins will probably go to Bell again tonight, but only because the rest of the Marlins’ top relievers are equally taxed; Edward Mujica and Steve Cishek have both pitched on three consecutive nights, though they’ve both thrown fewer pitches than Bell.
April 14, 2012
Texas Rangers – Alexi Ogando got the save last night. Ron Washington declared after the game that Joe Nathan was still the closer but with Adams getting the save the night before, the Rangers have several other options if Nathan continues to struggle. Joe Nathan to Hot Seat.
Oakland A’s – Ryan Cook got the call for the 8th inning in a 3 run game last night and manager Bob Melvin has said that he plans on using Cook as his primary right-handed set up man. Hierarchy change: Ryan Cook to 2nd in line, replacing Fautino De Los Santos.
Baltimore Orioles – Pedro Strop pitched in the 8th last night with the Orioles up one. Strop has only given up one run so far this season while Kevin Gregg has gotten off to a slow start. Hierarchy change: Pedro Strop to Set-up, replacing Kevin Gregg.
Los Angeles Dodgers – Kenley Jansen came in for the save with the Dodgers up 2 in the 9th but was unable to convert the save opportunity. Javy Guerra is still clearly the closer and was just getting a day off after pitching three consecutive days. No hierarchy change.
Cincinnati Reds – Logan Ondrusek pitched 1.2 scoreless innings last night and has yet to give up a run this season. He replaces the injured Nick Massett and moves to second in line behind Marshall and Chapman. Hierarchy change: Logan Ondrusek to 2nd in line, replacing Nick Masset.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Henry Rodriguez, Washington Nationals – Lidge has pitched two days in a row and it still should be Rodriguez’s turn for a save opp since Lidge got the lass one.
2. Francisco Cordero, Toronto Blue Jays – Sergio Santos was not with the team last night due to the birth of his daughter. Santos is expected to back today in time for the game but if something came up and Santos was not able to get back in time for the game, Cordero would likely get the save opportunity.
April 13, 2012
Los Angeles Angels- Set-up man Scott Downs suffered a gruesome ankle injury on Thursday, and was seen on crutches after the game. The Angels have yet to determine whether to place him on the DL, but he’ll likely miss some action. In the mean time, the Angels could look to Jason Isringhausen, who is spotless in three outings so far this year and has surpassed LaTroy Hawkins on the depth chart, to close games on nights that Jordan Walden is unavailable. Hierarchy change: Jason Isringhausen to Set-up, replacing Scott Downs.
Detroit Tigers- Phil Coke was the last of several relievers used by the Tigers to bridge the gap to 8th inning man Joaquin Benoit yesterday, and he’s been used 3 times in the 8th inning in pressure spots, pitching to both righties and lefties. Hierarchy change: Phil Coke to 2nd in line, replacing Octavio Dotel.
Washington Nationals- Drew Storen underwent surgery earlier this week and will be out until the All Star break, with Davey Johnson indicating that he would continue to alternate between Brad Lidge and Henry Rodriguez. Lidge, however, blew the save Thursday; another bad outing for him could mean Rodriguez wins the full-time job. No hierarchy change.
Arizona Diamondbacks- Bryan Shaw pitched the 8th inning in front of JJ Putz yesterday, and, in Takashi Saito’s absence, has established himself as the go-to set-up man when David Hernandez is unavailable. Hierarchy change: Brian Shaw to 2nd in line, replacing Takashi Saito.
Texas Rangers- Mike Adams, yesterday’s #1 candidate for a vulture save, filled in yesterday for Joe Nathan, who had the night off. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Henry Rodriguez, Washington Nationals- It’s Rodriguez’s turn for a save opp in Davey Johnson’s back-and-forth rotation between he and Brad Lidge. Rodriguez should be owned in all leagues at this point.
2. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers- Jose Valverde has pitched on three consecutive nights and will almost certainly get the day off on Friday.
3. Kenley Jansen, Los Angeles Dodgers- Javy Guerra has also pitched three consecutive nights, so the Dodgers will look to Jansen for any save chances.
4. Glen Perkins, Minnesota Twins- Matt Capps has pitched on two consecutive nights, and in three of the last four.
5. Sergio Romo, San Francisco Giants- Brian Wilson has pitched on two consecutive nights, throwing a total of 56 pitches.
April 12, 2012
Cleveland Indians- The middle-inning portion of the Indians bullpen continues to be shaky, as lefty specialist Rafael Perez had a bad outing on Wednesday. Joe Smith, who in past years has been used exclusively against righties, has been one of the few steady arms thus far, and this year is being used against both lefties and righties. Hierarchy change: Joe Smith to 2nd in line, replacing Rafael Perez.
Colorado Rockies- Long reliever Tyler Chatwood recorded a three-inning save in a Rockies blowout on Wednesday. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Mike Adams, Texas Rangers- Joe Nathan has pitched on each of the last two days, including a 26-pitch blown save yesterday, and may get the night off.
2. Andrew Cashner, San Diego Padres- Given Huston Street’s history of fragility, the Padres may give him the night off after two outings in a row.
3. Joaquin Benoit, Detroit Tigers- Jose Valverde has pitched two days in a row, including a 23-pitch outing yesterday.
4. Kenley Jansen/Matt Guerrier, Los Angeles Dodgers- Javy Guerra has pitched two days in a row, and could conceivably get a night off. Kenley Jansen could as well, as he’s thrown more pitches than Guerra in the last two days.
April 11, 2012
New York Mets- The Mets had an uneventful game, bullpen-wise, on Tuesday. However, earlier this week, Terry Collins surprisingly indicated that Miguel Batista would be his 9th inning man on any days when Frank Francisco and Jon Rauch are unavailable. Hierarchy change: Miguel Batista to 2nd in line, replacing Ramon Ramirez.
Milwaukee Brewers- Francisco Rodriguez was called on for the save last night because– as was noted in yesterday’s vulture save watch– John Axford had thrown 53 pitches over the previous two games. No hierarchy change.
St. Louis Cardinals- Mitchell Boggs pitched two perfect innings of relief on Tuesday and has established himself as a reliable late-inning replacement for the ailing Scott Linebrink. Hierarchy change: Mitchell Boggs to 2nd in line, replacing Scott Linebrink.
Kansas City Royals- Aaron Crow picked up the save last night in a rain-shortened game that only went 7 1/2 innings. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Henry Rodriguez, Washington Nationals- Davey Johnson is going back and forth between Brad Lidge and Henry Rodriguez, and Lidge pitched last night in a 4-run game. He didn’t record a save, so it still could be his “turn,” but with Rodriguez idle yesterday, the Nats will probably go with him tonight.
2. David Robertson/Rafael Soriano, New York Yankees- Mariano Rivera has pitched on consecutive days and could get the night off. David Robertson could get the call, but he has also pitched two days in a row, opening the door for a possible Rafael Soriano save opp.
April 10, 2012
Toronto Blue Jays- Sergio Santos blew his second consecutive save on Sunday and looked ugly doing it, walking three hitters and only recording two outs. Experienced set-up man Francisco Cordero could see some opportunities if Santos continues to falter. Sergio Santos to Hot Seat.
Boston Red Sox- Alfredo Aceves, yet to record an out this year, pitched a clean inning in recording the save on Monday. However, as Aceves closed out the game, Bobby Valentine had Franklin Morales– not Mark Melancon, who has given up runs in both of his appearances thus far– staying loose in the bullpen. Hierarchy change: Franklin Morales to Set-up, Mark Melancon to 2nd in line.
Washington Nationals- Henry Rodriguez took the loss Monday, allowing a walk-off single in a tie game, but the real news came off the field, as Drew Storen was sent to Dr. James Andrews for further evaluation on his elbow. Manager Davey Johnson said the outlook isn’t good, but Storen’s season appears to be in jeopardy. No hierarchy change.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Francisco Rodriguez, Milwaukee Brewers– John Axford has pitched on each of the last two days, throwing a combined 53 pitches.
April 9, 2012
Boston Red Sox- Alfredo Aceves and Mark Melancon both blew save chances in Sunday’s Red Sox game, with manager Bobby Valentine saying after the game that there were lots of options on the table, including possibly bringing Daniel Bard back to the bullpen. Franklin Morales, who had a strong outing Sunday, could also be a candidate to close. Hierarchy change: Franklin Morales to 2nd in line, replacing Vicente Padilla.
Arizona Diamondbacks- Bryan Shaw picked up the save on Sunday, as JJ Putz had pitched two consecutive days prior. No hierarchy change.
Tampa Bay Rays- Fernando Rodney closed out Sunday’s game against the Yankees, notching his second save in as many days. It seems that Joel Peralta’s leash was at short as it could be, as Rodney will close until Kyle Farnsworth returns from the DL. Hierarchy change: Fernando Rodney to Closer, Joel Peralta to Set-up.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Kerry Wood, Chicago Cubs- Carlos Marmol has pitched two days in a row, and in three of the last four.
2. Vinnie Pestano/Rafael Perez, Cleveland Indians- Chris Perez has pitched two days in a row, and in three of the last four. So, too, has Pestano, however, so Rafael Perez is also a candidate for a vulture save opp.
3. Jon Rauch, New York Mets- Frank Francisco has pitched two days in a row, and in three of the last four.
4. Greg Holland, Kansas City Royals- Jonathon Broxton has pitched two days in a row.
April 8, 2012
San Diego Padres- Luke Gregerson was the set-up man for the Padres late last season, but yesterday, they went to Gregerson in the 7th inning of a tie game, saving Andrew Cashner for the 8th. Hierarchy change: Andrew Cashner to Set-up, Luke Gregerson to 2nd in line.
Washington Nationals- Davey Johnson has said that he would alternate between Henry Rodriguez and Brad Lidge for save opportunities, and he stayed true to his word, calling on Rodriguez to pitch the 9th yesterday. He closed the game out successfully, and the next opportunity should go back to Lidge. No hierarchy change.
Chicago Cubs- Carlos Marmol had another ugly performance on Saturday, two days after taking the loss in the Cubs’ opener. Marmol, who blew 10 saves in 2011, would be in more danger if set-up man Kerry Wood had been anything less than awful as well. But should Marmol continue to struggle, the Cubs may be forced to look to Wood, or perhaps to young Rafael Dolis, for the 9th inning role. Carlos Marmol to Hot Seat.
Tampa Bay Rays- Joel Peralta was brought in to stop the Yankees rally yesterday, but only faced two hitters, the second of whom hit a HR off him. Jake McGee was then brought in for one batter before Fernando Rodney came in to close it out. Based on Peralta’s success filling in as closer last year, he figures to get another shot, but could be in danger of losing the job should he falter again. Joel Peralta to Hot Seat.
Cleveland Indians- Tony Sipp was shelled on Saturday, two days after he looked shaky in the season’s opener. For the time being, the Indians will likely call on Rafael Perez when they need a lefty, at least while Sipp works himself out. Hierarchy change: Rafael Perez to 2nd in line, replacing Tony Sipp.
Chicago White Sox- Hector Santiago closed out the White Sox victory on Saturday. The White Sox mystery closer has been revealed, though the young lefty was not the trendy choice until he was seen warming up in the bullpen for a possible save opportunity that never materialized on Friday. Jesse Crain seems to have fallen into a middle inning role, leaving Matt Thornton and Addison Reed to pitch the 7th and 8th. Hierarchy change: Hector Santiago to Closer, Matt Thornton to Set-up.
Kansas City Royals- The Royals, up 4 runs in the 8th inning, went to Greg Holland first. Jonathon Broxton pitched the 9th in a non-save situation and will close for the foreseeable future. Hierarchy change: Jonathon Broxton to Closer, Greg Holland to Set-up.
April 7, 2012
New York Yankees- David Robertson’s mild foot injury cost him some work early in spring training, and the Yankees hinted that Rafael Soriano would set up as a result, but Robertson appears to be fine; in their first game, the Yanks went with Soriano in the 7th and Robertson in the 8th. Hierarchy change: David Robertson to Set-up, Rafael Soriano to 2nd in line.
Texas Rangers- The Rangers, protecting a 1-run lead in the 7th inning last night, went to Alexi Ogando rather than Koji Uehara, who is coming off a rough spring training. Hierarchy change: Alexi Ogando to 2nd in line, replacing Koji Uehara.
April 6, 2012
Los Angeles Dodgers- Matt Guerrier pitched the 7th inning in a two-run game last night. With Guerrier and the also-talented Mike MacDougal eating up the middle innings for the Dodgers, Scott Elbert might be reduced to a LOOGY role. Hierarchy change: Matt Guerrier to 2nd in line, replacing Scott Elbert.
Tampa Bay Rays- Kyle Farnsworth was on the Rays’ 25-man opening day roster yesterday, but today, he’s been placed on the disabled list after complaining of elbow soreness. Joel Peralta will see save opportunities in his absence. Hierarchy change: Joel Peralta to Closer, Fernando Rodney to Set-up, Jake McGee to 2nd in line, Kyle Farnsworth to DL.
April 5, 2012
STARTING 2012 HIERARCHIES
Baltimore Orioles- Jim Johnson remains the closer after taking the job from Kevin Gregg last season. Gregg is being actively shopped by the O’s, but for now remains the setup man. Matt Lindstrom, acquired in the offseason via a trade with the Rockies, is expected to be the 7th-inning man. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Jim Johnson, Set-up- Kevin Gregg, 2nd in line- Matt Lindstrom.
Boston Red Sox- After losing closer Jonathan Papelbon to the Phillies, the Red Sox acquired Andrew Bailey, but late in spring training, he succumbed to a thumb injury and will miss much of the year. Manager Bobby Valentine said that Alfredo Aceves will start the season at closer, though Mark Melancon will get a look if he struggles. Vicente Padilla could also be in the mix for saves. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Alfredo Aceves, Set-up- Mark Melancon, 2nd in line- Vicente Padilla. Aceves begins the season on the Hot Seat.
New York Yankees- Mariano Rivera enters what he says will be his last season. Rafael Soriano will pitch the 8th inning to start out, but if he struggles, David Robertson could re-assume the role he thrived in last season. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Mariano Rivera, Set-up- Rafael Soriano, 2nd in line- David Robertson.
Tampa Bay Rays- Joe Maddon’s 2012 group looks much like the 2011 version of the bullpen – and that’s a good thing for the Rays. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Kyle Farnsworth, Set-up- Joel Peralta, 2nd in line- Fernando Rodney.
Toronto Blue Jays- Blue Jays GM Alex Anthopoulos continued to make positive moves for the team’s bullpen, trading for White Sox closer Sergio Santos, who will take over as closer in Toronto. The team also signed former Reds closer Francisco Cordero, who will serve as the primary setup man. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Sergio Santos, Set-up- Francisco Cordero, 2nd in line- Casey Janssen.
Chicago White Sox- The White Sox traded away closer Sergio Santos in the offseason and moved Chris Sale to the rotation. Manager Robin Ventura has not declared a closer yet but Matt Thornton and Jessie Crain are the early favorites with Thornton likely to get the first crack at it. Prospect Addison Reed might be the best arm in the bullpen so don’t be surprised if he is the closer before the end of the season. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Matt Thornton, Set-up- Jesse Crain, 2nd in line- Addison Reed.
Cleveland Indians- Chris Perez is injured and may miss the start of the season. Vinnie Pestano could see some saves early in the season but there is no doubt that Chris Perez will be the closer when healthy Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Chris Perez, Set-up- Vinnie Pestano, 2nd in line- Tony Sipp.
Detroit Tigers- The Tigers enter 2012 with a stable bullpen hierarchy. Newcomer Octavio Dotel will be used in a 7th inning role. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Jose Valverde, Set-up- Joaquin Benoit, 2nd in line- Octavio Dotel.
Kansas City Royals- Joakim Soria is out for the year, meaning Greg Holland and Jonathan Broxton will fight it out in the early season for save opportunities. The Royals have not declared a closer yet, but Holland has the early edge based on how they’ve been used in spring training. Should they both falter, Aaron Crow will get a shot. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Greg Holland, Set-up- Jonathan Broxton, 2nd in line- Aaron Crow. Holland begins the season on the Hot Seat.
Minnesota Twins- Joe Nathan signed with the Rangers so the Twins re-signed Matt Capps and he will start the year as the closer. If Capps falters as he did last year then Glen Perkins may see some saves. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Matt Capps, Set-up- Glen Perkins, 2nd in line- Alex Burnett.
Los Angeles Angels- Young fireballer Jordan Walden continues to anchor the Angels bullpen, with steady Scott Downs setting up. The 7th inning role is not well defined yet, but in the event of injuries to Walden and Downs, Latroy Hawkins would be the likely candidate to close. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Jordan Walden, Set-Up- Scott Downs, 2nd in line- LaTroy Hawkins.
Oakland A’s- Grant Balfour has been declared the closer to start the season following the departure of Andrew Bailey. Brian Fuentes will get first crack at saves if Balfour falters. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Grant Balfour, Set-up- Brian Fuentes, 2nd in line- Fautino De Los Santos.
Seattle Mariners- Brandon League will be the closer, with Tom Wilhelmsen returning as the setup man for now. Seattle also brought in George Sherrill as a possible 7th-inning reliever. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Brandon League, Set-up- Tom Wilhelmsen, 2nd in line- George Sherrill.
Texas Rangers- Neftali Feliz has moved to the rotation and Joe Nathan will take over as closer. Mike Adams, acquired from San Diego at the trade deadline last year, will return as setup man. Koji Uehara remains the 7th-inning reliever. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Joe Nathan, Set-up- Mike Adams, 2nd in line- Koji Uehara.
Atlanta Braves- The Braves had, unquestionably, the best trio of relievers in the game last year, and their 2012 roles are clearly defined after their season of dominance. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Craig Kimbrel, Set-up- Jonny Venters, 2nd in line- Eric O’Flaherty.
Miami Marlins- The new-look Miami (Vice) Marlins made a lot of offseason noise, including in the bullpen, signing Padres closer Heath Bell. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Heath Bell, Set-up- Edward Mujica, 2nd in line- Steve Cishek.
New York Mets- The Mets completely overhauled their bullpen in the offseason, acquiring three pitchers, Frank Francisco, Jon Rauch, and Ramon Ramirez, who they will immediately plug in to their late inning roles. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Frank Francisco, Set-up- Jon Rauch, 2nd in line- Ramon Ramirez.
Philadelphia Phillies- The Phillies made the biggest bullpen splash in the offseason, signing Jonathan Papelbon in the early days of free agency. Jose Contreras, one of the bullpen holdovers, is hurt and will likely return in late April. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Jonathan Papelbon, Set-up- Antonio Bastardo, 2nd in line- Chad Qualls.
Washington Nationals- The job is his when he returns, but Drew Storen will miss a few games early this season. Surprisingly, manager Davey Johnson has said that Brad Lidge and Henry Rodriguez will close in his place. Tyler Clippard is clearly the Nats’ second-best bullpen arm, but Johnson said he’s too valuable in his 8th inning role. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Brad Lidge, Set-up- Henry Rodriguez, 2nd in line- Tyler Clippard. Lidge begins the season on the Hot Seat.
Chicago Cubs- Although Carlos Marmol has struggled in spring training, his position as the team’s closer remains secure. Kerry Wood is the clear first setup man, but with Jeff Samardzija likely headed to the rotation, it appears that young Rafael Dolis will be next in line in the Chicago pen. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Carlos Marmol, Set-up- Kerry Wood, 2nd in line- Rafael Dolis.
Cincinnati Reds- With Ryan Madson out for the year, the Reds will turn to Sean Marshall to close out games. His injury might force Aroldis Chapman in the bullpen for another year, with Masset picking up the scraps when he is back healthy. Should the Reds make a playoff run, they could deal for an established closer if any of these guys struggle. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Sean Marshall, Set-up- Aroldis Chapman, 2nd in line- Nick Masset.
Houston Astros- Brett Myers was moved from the starting rotation to the bullpen after the trade of Mark Melancon and will start the season as the closer. Brandon Lyon, who started the season as the closer last year, figures to the get the first shot at closing if Myers struggles. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Brett Myers, Set-up- Brandon Lyon, 2nd in line- Fernando Rodriguez.
Milwaukee Brewers– The Brewers re-signed Francisco Rodriguez in the offseason but John Axford is without question the closer for the Brewers. If Axford is injured, K-Rod would immediately step in as closer. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- John Axford, Set-up- Francisco Rodriguez, 2nd in line- Jose Veras.
Pittsburgh Pirates- The Pirates bullpen remains largely unchanged from last year. Joel Hanrahan will close, with Evan Meek filling in on off nights. Jason Grilli was used as a spot closer down the stretch last year, and will be the top option if Hanrahan and Meek are not available. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Joel Hanrahan, Set-up- Evan Meek, 2nd in line- Jason Grilli.
St. Louis Cardinals- The Cardinals will stick with Jason Motte as their closer, while Fernando Salas, who started 2011 as the closer, will step in quickly if Motte struggles. Scott Linebrink was added as a veteran relief pitcher and would likely take over if both Motte and Salas struggle. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Jason Motte, Set-up- Fernando Salas, 2nd in line- Scott Linebrink.
Arizona Diamondbacks- The top relievers in the Diamondbacks bullpen remain unchanged, with David Hernandez backing up JJ Putz. Recently acquired Takashi Saito could also be a longshot for saves in the event of injuries. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- JJ Putz, Set-up- David Hernandez, 2nd in line- Takashi Saito.
Colorado Rockies- With Huston Street gone, Rafael Betancourt is firmly entrenched in the closer role. Rex Brothers will likely get first crack at saves should Betancourt struggle. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Huston Street, Set-up- Rex Brothers, 2nd in line- Matt Belisle.
Los Angeles Dodgers- Javy Guerra will start as the closer based on last year, but he’ll be looking over his shoulder at fireballer Kenley Jansen, who is a strong candidate to close soon. Scott Elbert picked up the odd save chances for the Dodgers last year, and with no major additions, he could assume the role if Guerra and Jansen go down. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Javy Guerra, Set-up- Kenley Jansen, 2nd in line- Scott Elbert.
San Diego Padres- The Padres acquired Huston Street in the offseason, and Luke Gregerson, one of the few established arms in San Diego’s bullpen, will likely get first crack at saves if he falters. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Huston Street, Set-up- Luke Gregerson, 2nd in line- Andrew Cashner.
San Francisco Giants- Brian Wilson heads the list of SF bullpen arms, based more on reputation than his 2011 statistics. Both Sergio Romo and Santiago Casilla filled in as the closer towards the end of last season with Wilson on the DL, and they’ll see save chances if Wilson gets hurt. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Brian Wilson, Set-up- Sergio Romo, 2nd in line- Santiago Casilla.
