Los Angeles Angels Fantasy Baseball Daily Bullpen Updates and Closer Depth Chart
| Closer | 1st in line | 2nd in line | 2025 Closer | Updated | |
| LAA | Ben Joyce | José Quijada | Ryan Zeferjahn | Ben Joyce | 11/1/24 |
| IL |
*= closer-by-committee
Previous updates:
Los Angeles Angels – Good news will come in two parts next year, an emerging Ben Joyce and the return of Robert Stephenson. Joyce introduced a “splinker” into his arsenal on June 16 and produced 25 scoreless appearances in his last 27 games with 33 strikeouts against 11 walks across 31 innings. His velocity and experience at the end of the season should ensure his role as the closer in 2025.
September 28, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – With a three-run lead at the top of the ninth, José Quijada issued Marcus Semien a lead-off walk, recorded a strikeout, then another walk and a hit batter, loading the bases. After Nathaniel Lowe singled in a run, Quijada was removed, leaving three runners on base.
- Ryan Miller let all three inherited runners score, giving up a two-RBI single by Jonathan Ornelas, with the third scoring on a throwing error, resulting in his first blown save. Miller recorded two outs and allowed only one hit. Quijada was tagged with his second loss, allowing four runs (three earned) and three walks in one-third of the ninth.
- Brock Burke gave up three hits and two earned runs while striking out two in the eighth.
- Ryan Zeferjahn logged 1.1 scoreless, issuing two walks and striking out three.
Updated Hierarchy: *José Quijada | *Ryan Miller | Brock Burke
*= closer-by-committee
September 22, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Called upon with two runners on and two outs, Guillo Zuñiga secured his second save, recording a game-ending strikeout against Jeremy Peña.
- José Quijada gets credit for his sixth hold. He opened the ninth with a three-run lead and registered two quick outs. However, he gave up a two-out walk and three straight singles, scoring two runs before being removed.
- Brock Burke collected his second win, giving up a hit, scoring an inherited runner, and recording two outs in the eighth.
- Ryan Zeferjahn allowed two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one over 1.1 innings.
Updated Hierarchy: *José Quijada | *Guillo Zuñiga | Brock Burke
*= closer-by-committee
September 18, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – After navigating around two walks and recording three strikeouts during a scoreless top of the 13th, José Quijada collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 23 pitches (12 strikes – 52.2 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (17.4 SwStr%).
- Guillo Zuñiga stranded a runner despite issuing a walk and recorded a strikeout during two-thirds of the 12th.
- Kenny Rosenberg logged 1.1 innings, giving up a hit and an unearned run while striking out one.
- Carson Fulmer let the “place” runner score at the top of the tenth and issued a walk in his outing.
- Ryan Zeferjahn tossed a clean ninth. Brock Burke walked two in a scoreless eighth.
Hierarchy remains: *José Quijada | *Hunter Strickland | Brock Burke
*= closer-by-committee
September 10, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Unfortunate news for fantasy managers, Ben Joyce was placed on the 15-day injured list with shoulder inflammation per Sam Blum of The Athletic. Ron Washington intimated there would be a closer-by-committee approach, reflected in our updated hierarchy until a save situation provides more information on who he prefers in the late innings.
Updated Hierarchy: *Hunter Strickland | *José Quijada | *Brock Burke
*= closer-by-committee
September 3, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Entering at the top of the tenth, Roansy Contreras suffered his fourth loss. He let the “place” runner score on a one-out Miguel Rojas single, intentionally walked Shohei Ohtani with two outs, and allowed Mookie Betts’ three-run home run before being removed. He finished with two hits, four runs (three earned), and a walk while recording two outs. Brock Burke gave up a hit and struck out one during his one-third of the tenth.
- Ben Joyce retired the side and recorded two strikeouts against the 4-5-6 lineup pocket, including the fastest pitch on a strikeout in the Statcast era. He extended his scoreless streak to seven games with ten strikeouts against zero walks over his last eight innings.
- José Quijada tossed a scoreless eighth, issuing a walk and striking out two.
- Hunter Strickland fired a clean seventh, striking out one.
Hierarchy remains: Ben Joyce | Hunter Strickland | José Quijada
September 1, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Securing his fourth save, appearing on consecutive days, Ben Joyce preserved a one-run lead by navigating around a lead-off single with a double play groundout and a game-ending strikeout. He threw 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He extended his scoreless streak to six games, and he’s recorded a win while converting three saves with eight strikeouts against zero walks in his last seven innings.
- Brock Burke notched his first hold, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
- Ryan Miller worked a scoreless seventh, allowing a hit and striking out two.
Hierarchy remains: Ben Joyce | Hunter Strickland | José Quijada
August 31, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – After navigating through a hit batter (Randy Arozarena) with one out, followed by Justin Turner’s single, Ben Joyce bore down. He retired Josh Rojas on a groundout and Jorge Polanco on an inning-ending strikeout for a scoreless top of the ninth, keeping the game tied. Joyce threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%), collecting his second win on a walk-off home run in the bottom of the inning. He finished August with this win, three saves, and two holds with 11 strikeouts versus four walks over 10.1 innings.
- José Quijada worked a scoreless eighth, allowing a walk and hitting a batter.
- Roansy Contreras logged two scoreless innings and gave up two walks.
- Brock Burke tossed a scoreless fifth, yielding a hit and striking out two.
Hierarchy remains: Ben Joyce | Hunter Strickland | José Quijada
August 29, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Summoned with the bases loaded and two outs in the bottom of the eighth, Ben Joyce ended the threat with an inning-ending strikeout of Spencer Torkelson. He returned for the ninth, completing the combined shutout and third save, working around Zach McKinstry’s lead-off single with a strikeout, a pop-out, and a groundout. Joyce threw 16 pitches (87.5 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (31.3 SwStr%) while recording two of his four outs via strikeout. He’s retired at least four batters in his three saves this season.
- José Quijada gave up a hit and two walks while striking out two over two-thirds of the eighth for his fifth hold.
- Roansy Contreras secured his first hold, allowing a hit and striking out one in a scoreless seventh.
Hierarchy remains: Ben Joyce | Hunter Strickland | José Quijada
August 23, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – With a one-run lead in the bottom of the ninth, Roansy Contreras suffered his third loss and a second blown save. He served up consecutive solo home runs by Joey Loperfido and Addison Barger.
- Ben Joyce was deployed in the eighth against Toronto’s 3-4-5 lineup pocket and secured his eighth hold with a scoreless outing. He allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout on 15 pitches (8 strikes – 53.3 Strike%) with two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%).
- José Quijada retired his only batter faced via strikeout in the seventh for his fourth hold.
- Hunter Strickland issued a walk during two-thirds scoreless in the seventh, securing his tenth hold.
Updated Hierarchy: Ben Joyce | Hunter Strickland | José Quijada
August 16, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Summoned with two runners on and one out in the top of the eighth, Ben Joyce induced an inning-ending double play groundout. He returned against the top of Atlanta’s lineup on the ninth, worked around Marcell Ozuna’s two-out single, and recorded a strikeout in 1.2 scoreless frames for his second save. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%).
- Matt Moore gave up a hit and a walk over one-third scoreless in the eighth, getting credit for his tenth hold.
- Hunter Strickland navigated around two hits and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless seventh, securing his eighth hold.
- Brock Burke collected his first win, logging 1.2 scoreless innings, issuing two walks, and striking out two.
Updated Hierarchy: Ben Joyce | Hunter Strickland | Matt Moore
August 9, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Summoned with the “place” runner on third and one out, Ben Joyce allowed Alex Call’s walk-off RBI single past a drawn-in infield.
- Matt Moore suffered his third loss, allowing a walk and an unearned run during his 1.1-inning outing.
- José Quijada gave up two hits and an earned run, resulting in his second blown save in the eighth.
- Hunter Strickland secured his seventh hold with a clean seventh inning.
Hierarchy remains: Ben Joyce | Hunter Strickland | Roansy Contreras
August 4, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Filling in capably in the ninth, Roansy Contreras secured his second save while retiring the side and striking out two during a one-run win over the Mets. He threw 11 pitches (90.9 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in seven of his last eight with two ancillary saves and a 13:2 K:BB over 10.1 innings.
- Mike Baumann notched his sixth hold with a scoreless eighth, allowing a hit and striking out one.
- José Marte tossed two scoreless innings, yielding a hit.
Updated Hierarchy: Ben Joyce | Hunter Strickland | Roansy Contreras
August 3, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – On August 3, Ben Joyce recorded his first career save. He took over with a runner on third and two outs in the eighth, stranding him on a groundout. Facing the top of the Mets’ lineup in the ninth, he retired the side, including a game-ending strikeout of J.D. Martinez at 104.7 m.p.h. with his four-seam fastball. Joyce threw 15 pitches (13 strikes – 86.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%). This extended his scoreless streak to 18 games, spanning 22.2 innings with 20 strikeouts versus 10 walks.
- Matt Moore collected his fifth win, recording two outs and allowing a hit over two-thirds scoreless in the eighth.
- Hunter Strickland suffered his third blown save. He gave up a go-ahead grand slam by Martinez, scoring two inherited runners and putting two earned on his ledger.
Updated Hierarchy: Ben Joyce | Hunter Strickland | Hans Crouse
August 1, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – In the top of the tenth, Hans Crouse made a throwing error on a sacrifice bunt by Sam Hilliard leading off the inning, scoring the “place” runner. This resulted in his third loss. Crouse recovered with two strikeouts while retiring the next three batters.
- Hunter Strickland suffered his second blown save in the ninth. His outing started with a walk, a leverage mortal sin, and a one-out, game-tying Jake Cave two-run home run. Strickland finished with a hit, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one on 18 pitches (50 Strike%) with one whiff.
- Ben Joyce tossed a scoreless eighth, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out one. After the first two batters reached, he induced a double play groundball and struck out Brenton Doyle, ending the threat. He threw 19 pitches (12 strikes – 63.2 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He secured his seventh hold and extended his scoreless streak to 17 games, spanning 21.1 innings with 19 strikeouts against 10 walks and a 0.85 WHIP.
Hierarchy remains: *Ben Joyce | *Hunter Strickland | Hans Crouse
*= closer-by-committee
July 30, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – With a three-run lead, Ron Washington summoned Hunter Strickland for his first save since August 1, 2022. Strickland responded with a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout against the Rockies’ 7-8-9 hitters on nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) with two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless over his last five appearances.
- Ben Joyce notched his sixth hold, retiring the side in the eighth against the 4-5-6 lineup pocket, needing only six pitches (83.3 Strike%) with one whiff (16.7 SwStr%). This extended his scoreless streak to 16 games, spanning 20.1 innings.
- José Quijada gave up a game-tying Ezequiel Tovar solo home run, resulting in his first blown save, and collected his first win courtesy of his team’s rally in the bottom of the inning.
Updated Hierarchy: *Ben Joyce | *Hunter Strickland | Hans Crouse
*= closer-by-committee
July 28, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Nailing down his fourth save, Luis García retired the side against Oakland’s 8-9-1 lineup pocket. He threw nine pitches (55.6 Strike%) without a whiff. This marks his first save since May 22, and he’s on a modest six-game scoreless streak. If he’s not traded, he may remain the closer for the Angels, but he’s firmly on the block.
- Ben Joyce notched his fifth hold, firing two clean frames and recording three strikeouts on 25 pitches (64 Strike%) with two whiffs. He’s been scoreless over his last 15 outings, spanning 19.1 innings, with 18 strikeouts against nine walks.
- José Quijada secured his fist hold, striking out the side in the sixth.
- Roansy Contreras collected his second win, logging 1.1 clean innings and striking out one.
Updated Hierarchy: Luis García | Ben Joyce | Roansy Contreras
July 26, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – In ascending order of appearance, Hans Crouse suffered his first loss and a blown save. He allowed three hits, including a go-ahead Brent Rooker two-run home run and a walk while striking out one in one-third of the sixth.
- José Quijada gave up a hit during a scoreless seventh.
- Matt Moore issued a walk and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless eighth.
- Roansy Contreras worked a scoreless top of the ninth, giving up a hit and striking out one.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Ben Joyce
July 24, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Capping a come-from-behind win, Carlos Estévez nailed down his 20th save, retiring the side in Seattle. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff against the 6-7-8 lineup pocket. This extends his scoreless streak to 18 games. He’s recorded a win and 13 saves with 15 strikeouts versus two walks across his last 18 innings.
- Luis García notched his 11th hold, allowing a hit during a scoreless eighth.
- Hans Crouse earned his fourth win. He allowed a hit and struck out two in a scoreless seventh, ahead of his team’s two-run rally in the top of the eighth.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Ben Joyce
July 22, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Shutting the door on his 19th save, Carlos Estévez fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded a strikeout during a two-run win in Seattle. He threw nine pitches, all strikes, and produced three whiffs (33.3 SwStr%) facing the 4-5-6 lineup pocket. He boasts a 17-game scoreless streak, converting all 12 save opportunities with 15 strikeouts against two walks since May 28.
- Luis García was awarded the win for a second straight game, his fifth on the season, working a scoreless bottom of the eighth. He allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts.
- Hunter Strickland retired the side and struck out two in the seventh.
- Hans Crouse stranded two runners, striking out his only batter in the sixth.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Ben Joyce
July 21, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Despite issuing Lawrence Butler a lead-off walk, Carlos Estévez recorded his 18th save with a scoreless ninth, finishing off a come-from-behind win. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He extended his scoreless streak to 16 since May 28, during which he’s converted 11 saves with 14 strikeouts against two walks across 16 innings.
- Luis García was awarded his fourth win. He retired the side in the eighth and recorded a strikeout.
- Ben Joyce struggled in the seventh. He took over with two runners on, letting both score, one on a bases-loaded walk and one on a wild pitch. He remains scoreless over his last 12 appearances but must improve his performance in messy situations.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Ben Joyce
July 17, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – There is no denying the improvement displayed by Ben Joyce since introducing his “splinker” on June 14, but he needs the team to trade Luis García, not just Carlos Estévez, for a full run as the closer. This should happen, but one cannot ignore Ron Washington’s patience in not moving up Logan O’Hoppe or Zach Neto in the lineup to avoid putting pressure on the young hitters. The good news is that the Angels should be moving any commodity possible, and with the easiest remaining strength of schedule, Joyce hopefully accrues six to eight saves down the stretch.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Ben Joyce
July 14, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Protecting a one-run lead, Roansy Contreras recorded his first save this season and the second of his career with a clean ninth, striking out one. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) without a whiff.
- Hans Crouse collected his third win, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out two in a scoreless eighth inning ahead of his team’s rally in the bottom of the inning.
- Matt Moore allowed a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out three in the seventh.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Ben Joyce
July 13, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Locking down his 17th save, Carlos Estévez retired the side against Seattle and recorded a strikeout on seven pitches (85.7 Strike%) with two whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless over his last 15 outings since May 28, converting all ten save chances with 14 strikeouts against one walk.
- Luis García notched his tenth hold, striking out one in a clean eighth.
- Ben Joyce secured his third hold, working around a lead-off double with three strikeouts. He threw 18 pitches (13 strikes – 72.2 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). Since introducing his “splinker” on June 14, he’s posted 11 scoreless appearances with 15 strikeouts versus five walks across 14.1 innings.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Ben Joyce
July 12, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Although he let the “place” runner score on Mitch Garver’s RBI double, after issuing an intentional walk (Cal Raleigh), Hans Crouse induced consecutive strikeouts in the top of the tenth and collected his second win on a walk-off home run in the bottom of the frame.
- Carlos Estévez tossed a scoreless ninth, giving up a one-out single and striking out two, keeping the game tied. He threw 17 pitches (12 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (35.3 SwStr%).
- Luis García navigated around two hits for a scoreless eighth.
- Ben Joyce fired a clean seventh and recorded a strikeout. He also threw the season’s fastest pitch at 104.5 m.p.h. in this sequence. He’s been scoreless over his last 10 appearances, spanning 13.1 innings.
Updated Hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Ben Joyce
July 10, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – After warming for a save opportunity, Carlos Estévez retired the side in the ninth, finishing a five-run win over Texas when his teammates tacked on two runs in the bottom of the eighth. He threw 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and did not induce a whiff. This marked his first outing in July, and he has a 12-game scoreless streak with 11 strikeouts versus one walk while converting all nine save chances.
- José Marte stranded three runners in the seventh and tossed 1.1 clean frames while striking out one for his first hold.
- Hunter Strickland was credited with his sixth hold, giving up a hit, a walk, and a hit batter during two-thirds of the seventh.
- Hans Crouse stranded the bases loaded in the fifth and logged 1.2 scoreless innings en route to his first major league win. He issued a walk and recorded two strikeouts.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Ben Joyce
July 9, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – During an impromptu bullpen game, Matt Moore tossed 1.1 scoreless innings, allowing a hit and striking out two.
- Luis García suffered his first loss, giving up Adolis García’s go-ahead solo home run in the top of the eighth. He finished with a hit, an earned run, and two walks during his 1.2-inning outing.
- Ben Joyce tossed two scoreless frames, yielding a hit. He owns an eight-game scoreless streak spanning 10.1 innings.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
June 29, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Following a clean top of the tenth, Ben Joyce collected his first win when his team produced a walk-off rally in the bottom of the frame. He retired the Tigers’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket in order and recorded a strikeout while throwing 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) with two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).
- Carlos Estévez kept the game tied with a scoreless ninth, allowing a one-out single and getting an inning-ending caught stealing. He’s logged ten scoreless appearances in June while converting eight saves with ten strikeouts and a minuscule 0.20 WHIP.
- Carson Fulmer tossed a scoreless eighth, walking one and striking out one.
- Hans Crouse retired the side in the seventh and recorded two strikeouts.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
June 28, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Capping a rally in the bottom of the eighth, Carlos Estévez nailed down his 16th save while retiring the side and preserving a three-run win over Detroit. He threw nine pitches (88.9 Strike%) without a whiff while converting his tenth straight save. He’s only allowed one hit over his last 10 innings with 10 strikeouts against zero walks.
- Luis García collected his third win. He worked a clean eighth and benefited from his team’s three runs in the bottom of the inning.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
June 27, 2024
(RP | LAA): Completing a combined shoutout, Ben Joyce fired a clean top of the ninth in a non-save outing. He threw nine pitches (88.9 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in his last six outings.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
June 26, 2024
(RP | LAA): Matt Moore collected his fourth win, retiring the side in the sixth and striking out one ahead of his team’s five-run rally in the bottom of the inning.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
June 25, 2024
(RP | LAA): Finishing a two-run win over Oakland, Carlos Estévez secured his 15th save. He allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless ninth inning.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – Locking down his 15th save, Carlos Estévez worked around a two-out single with a game-ending strikeout, preserving the two-run margin. He threw 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%) while striking out two in his outing. Through eight appearances in June, he’s recorded one win and seven saves with ten strikeouts versus zero walks. Ben Joyce stranded a runner, though he issued a walk while retiring two batters in the eighth. José Marte gave up two hits and two runs (one earned) in one-third of the eighth. Luis García allowed a hit in a scoreless seventh for his ninth hold. Hunter Strickland retired the side and recorded one strikeout in the sixth, securing his fifth hold.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
June 21, 2024
(RP | LAA): Locking down his 14th save and eighth straight clean appearance, Carlos Estévez recorded two strikeouts while preserving a one-run win over the Dodgers in the bottom of the tenth.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels -Shutting the door on his 14th save during an impromptu bullpen game, Carlos Estévez fired a clean bottom of the tenth and recorded two strikeouts during a one-run win over the Dodgers. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (33.3 SwStr%) versus the 6-7-8 lineup pocket. Luis García earned his second win, logging two scoreless innings, allowing a hit and striking out one. Ben Joyce tossed two clean frames and recorded two strikeouts on 18 pitches (13 strikes – 72.2 Strike%) with two whiffs. Matt Moore gave up two hits, including a two-run home run by Shohei Ohtani in the fifth. Hunter Strickland turned in 1.2 scoreless and struck out two.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
June 17, 2024
(RP | LAA): Finishing a two-run win over the Brewers, Carlos Estévez recorded his 13th save with a clean top of the ninth, striking out one.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – Remaining hot, Carlos Estévez locked down his 13th save with a clean top of the ninth. He recorded one strikeout and owns a seven-game scoreless streak, all clean, while recording a win and six saves. Matt Moore tossed a scoreless eighth, working around a walk for his ninth hold. Luis García allowed a hit and a walk before retiring the next three batters via strikeout, securing his eighth hold.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
June 15, 2024
(RP | LAA): Locking down his 12th save, Carlos Estévez retired the side in the bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts, preserving a one-run win.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – Save number 12 for Carlos Estévez. He fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts, preserving a one-run win over the Giants. He threw 12 pitches (7 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He’s converted five straight saves over six clean innings with five strikeouts. Luis García notched his seventh hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the eighth. Hunter Strickland allowed a hit and struck out one in a scoreless seventh for his fourth hold. Matt Moore collected his third win, tossing a scoreless sixth, yielding a hit.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
June 14, 2024
(RP | LAA): Shutting the door on his 11th save, Carlos Estévez retired the side in the bottom of the ninth and struck out one preserving a win in San Francisco.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – Locking down his 11th save, Carlos Estévez fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded a strikeout while preserving a two-run win in San Francisco. He faced the 5-6-7 lineup pocket, throwing 17 pitches (12 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He owns a modest five-game scoreless streak and has converted all four save chances with three strikeouts versus zero walks. Roansy Contreras let both inherited runners score, allowing two hits and an earned run on his ledger, serving up a three-run home run by Heliot Ramos during his two-thirds of the eighth. Adam Cimber turned in a rough outing. He gave up three hits and four earned runs over one-third of the eighth. Ben Joyce logged 1.2 scoreless frames, issuing two walks and striking out one.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
June 9, 2024
(RP | LAA): With the score tied in the top of the ninth, Carlos Estévez retired the side and recorded one strikeout. He collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off dinger in the bottom of the frame.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – Benefiting from a walk-off at the bottom of the ninth, Carlos Estévez collected his first win. He fired a clean top of the inning, striking out one on 12 pitches (83.3 Strike%) and generating three whiffs (25 SwStr%). He owns a modest four-game scoreless streak, all clean outings. Luis García navigated around two hits and struck out one in a scoreless eighth. Matt Moore allowed two hits during a scoreless seventh. Hunter Strickland let his only inherited runner score and gave up two hits, including a two-run home run by Jose Altuve, putting two earned on his ledger.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
June 5, 2024
(RP | LAA): Preserving a one-run win, and making a terrific play at first base, Matt Moore secured his first save of the season, and since 2022, retiring the side against the Padres.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – Recording his first save since 2022, Matt Moore tossed a clean top of the ninth, preserving a one-run win and a sweep of the Padres. He threw seven pitches (85.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Ben Joyce debuted this season with a scoreless eighth, working around a lead-off single by Fernando Tatis Jr. and a wild pitch. He retired the next three batters for his first hold. He produced four whiffs of his 17 pitches (23.5 SwStr%). Adam Cimber notched his eighth hold, yielding a hit during a scoreless seventh.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
June 4, 2024
(RP | LAA): Capping his team’s three-run rally in the bottom of the seventh, Carlos Estévez secured his tenth save, retiring the side against the Padres.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – Locking down his tenth save, Carlos Estévez retired the side against San Diego, preserving a two-run win. He threw nine pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s on a modest three-game scoreless streak, securing a save in each outing. Hunter Strickland stranded two runners and retired his only batter, Ha-Seong Kim, on a pop-out for his third hold. Luis García was credited with his sixth hold despite giving up three hits and an earned run while striking out two over his two-thirds of the eighth. Matt Moore collected his second win, working a scoreless seventh and issuing a walk.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
June 3, 2024
(RP | LAA): Protecting a one-run lead, Carlos Estévez recorded his ninth save, retiring the side against the Padres while striking out one.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – Securing his ninth save, Carlos Estévez tossed a clean ninth and recorded one strikeout, preserving a one-run win over the Padres, facing the 6-7-8 lineup pocket. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s allowed two runs (one earned) over his last six appearances and converted three saves with a 1.27 WHIP over 6.1 innings. Hunter Strickland collected his second win, logging 1.1 scoreless frames and stranded two runners in the seventh. He’s turned in a scoreless outing in 18 of his last 20 with a 0.66 WHIP through 19.2 innings.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
May 31, 2024
(RP | LAA): Following his team’s rally at the top of the seventh, Matt Moore took over a tie contest in the eighth inning. However, he allowed a go-ahead solo home by Ty France among his two hits against and struck out one, resulting in his second loss.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
May 28, 2024
(RP | LAA): Handed a one-run lead, Carlos Estévez nailed down his eighth save, retiring the side in the top of the ninth.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – Closing a comeback win, Carlos Estévez recorded his eighth save, retiring the Yankees 9-1-2 hitters in order, preserving a one-run win. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) without inducing a whiff. He’s converted his last two save opportunities but has allowed at least a run during three of his last six appearances. Matt Moore collected his first win, firing a clean eighth and striking out one. Luis García turned in a clean seventh, recording a strikeout. Hunter Strickland tossed a clean sixth, striking out one.
Adjusted Hierarchy (mostly linear): Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore
May 22, 2024
(RP | LAA): Locking down his third save, Luis García retired the side in Houston while striking out two and preserving a one-run win.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – With the bullpen running on fumes based on heavy usage patterns in recent contests, Luis García once again stepped up. He fired a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out two and recording his third save. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (33.3 SwStr%). Even though he’s allowed at least a run in four of his last six outings, he’s notched a save in two of his last three.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Adam Cimber
May 21, 2024
(RP | LAA): Taking over a tied contest in the bottom of the tenth, Carlos Estévez suffered his third loss. He issued a lead-off intentional walk, induced a flyout by Alex Bregman, then gave up a walk-off, RBI single by Jeremy Peña.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – It’s a fine line as a reliever taking over in the tenth after your team does not score. Carlos Estévez was tagged with his third loss, allowing a walk-off single by Jeremy Peña. Estévez also issued an intentional walk to Yordan Alvarez. Hunter Strickland tossed a scoreless ninth, allowing a hit. Matt Moore fired a clean eighth, striking out two. Luis García suffered his second blown save, giving up a solo home run. Carson Fulmer was handed his first blown save, yielding two hits.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Adam Cimber
May 20, 2024
(RP | LAA): Working into, then out of trouble, Carlos Estévez held on for his seventh save despite giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk during a two-run win over Houston.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – Surviving a white-knuckle ride in the bottom of the ninth, Carlos Estévez held on for his seventh save, closing out a two-run win in Houston. His outing began with a fly ball caught against the fence, then a one-out single and a groundout. With two outs, he gave up an RBI single by Kyle Tucker and walked Yordan Alvarez, bringing the game-tying run to the plate and inducing a game-ending flyout to center by Alex Bregman. Estévez threw 22 pitches (13 strikes – 59.1 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. This marked his first save since May 8. Hunter Strickland recorded his second hold, firing a clean eighth and striking out one. Adam Cimber issued a walk during a scoreless seventh, securing his seventh hold. José Suarez logged two scoreless frames, allowing a walk and striking out one while collecting his first win.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Adam Cimber
May 19, 2024
(RP | LAA): Logging 1.1 scoreless frames, and working around two hits, Luis García closed out his second save during a win in Texas.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – Inheriting a messy situation in the bottom of the eighth, Luis Garcia took over with two runners on base. He gave up a hit by Josh Smith but induced an inning-ending flyout from Jonah Heim, stranding both. He navigated around a one-out single in the ninth with a game-ending double play, recording his second save and preserving the three-run win in Texas. He threw 16 pitches (13 strikes – 81.3 Strike%) without a whiff.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Adam Cimber
May 18, 2024
(RP | LAA): An almost fitting end to a weird back-and-forth contest, Carson Fulmer suffered his second loss, loading the bases in the bottom of the 13th then hitting Nathaniel Lowe resulting in a walk-off hit-by-pitch.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – In a strange finish, Carson Fulmer suffered his second loss, on a walk-off hit-by-pitch while facing Nathaniel Lowe in the bottom of the 13th. He finished his 1.1-inning outing with a hit against, an unearned run, and two walks (one intentional). Carlos Estévez tossed two scoreless frames, navigating around a hit and a walk (intentional) while striking out two. He threw 24 pitches (14 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (12.5 SwStr%). Hunter Strickland retired the side in the ninth. Luis García was tagged with his first blown save, giving up a hit, an earned run, and a walk in the eighth. Adam Cimber fired a clean seventh, striking out one for his sixth hold.
Updated Hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Adam Cimber
May 13, 2024
(RP | LAA): During a fateful seventh inning, three Angels relievers gave up a combined seven earned runs with Matt Moore being tagged with his first loss, and his first blown save, allowing three hits, four earned runs, and a walk while recording one out.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | Luis García
May 10, 2024
(RP | LAA): Handed a 1-0 lead in the top of the ninth, Carlos Estévez suffered his second loss, and third blown save, giving up three hits, including a go-ahead two-run home run.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – Entering with a 1-0 lead in the top of the ninth, Carlos Estévez suffered his second loss, and his third blown save, allowing three hits, including a go-ahead two-run home run by Adam Frazier. In this outing, he threw 21 pitches (13 strikes – 61.9 Strike%) without getting a whiff. Over his last seven appearances, he’s given up multiple runs in three, and at least a run in four, resulting in eight earned runs through 6.2 innings while converting three of six save chances. Luis García notched his fifth hold, tossing a clean eighth and striking out one. Matt Moore secured his eighth hold, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless seventh. Adam Cimber stranded two runners and retired his only batter via strikeout in the sixth, recording his third hold.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | Luis García
May 8, 2024
(RP | LAA): Appearing on consecutive days, Carlos Estévez notched his first save this month, and sixth this season with a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out two.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – Recording his first save since April 29, and his sixth of the season, Carlos Estévez preserved a one-run win in Pittsburgh with a clean ninth while striking out two. He threw 18 pitches (11 strikes – 61.1 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). Luis García retired both batters in the eighth for his fourth hold. Matt Moore fired 1.1 clean frames, striking out two. Adam Cimber collected his third win, logging 1.1 clean innings and striking out three on 20 pitches (65 Strike%) with two whiffs.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | Luis García
May 7, 2024
(RP | LAA): During his first appearance in May, Carlos Estévez fired a clean ninth, preserving a combined shutout during a non-save situation.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – Making his first appearance since April 30, Carlos Estévez fired a clean bottom of the ninth, preserving a combined shutout in a non-save situation. He threw 14 pitches (64.3 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). He owns a 0.93 WHIP with 11 strikeouts against zero walks through 9.2 innings this season. Luis García retired the side in the eighth.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | Luis García
April 30, 2024
(RP | LAA): Although he stranded a runner in the eighth, Carlos Estévez could not convert his save chance. He suffered his first loss while giving up two home runs in the top of the ninth resulting in three earned runs.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – After a calm start to the season, things have turned quickly for Carlos Estévez. He suffered his second blown save, and first loss, allowing a game-tying home run by Nick Castellanos in the top of the ninth, followed by a two-run, go-ahead home run by Johan Rojas. His final line featured three hits allowed with three earned runs while striking out two over two-thirds combined innings, he stranded a runner in the eighth. He’s allowed a run in three of his last four outings, and multiple runs in two (3.2 IP, six earned runs, 2.16 WHIP). Amir Garrett recorded the last two outs of the ninth but gave up a hit and a walk while striking out one in the process. Matt Moore was credited with his sixth hold, giving up two hits and an earned run with one strikeout over two-thirds of the eighth. Luis García notched his third hold, firing a clean seventh and striking out one.
Updated hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | Luis García
April 29, 2024
(RP | LAA): Carlos Estévez held on for his fifth save of the season despite giving up an earned run in the ninth.
Analysis
Los Angeles Angels – Capping a comeback victory, Carlos Estévez survived loud contact, allowing a line drive single by Trea Turner and a ground-rule double by Bryce Harper, resulting in an earned run on a sacrifice fly with a game-ending strikeout for his fifth save. He threw 26 pitches (17 strikes – 65.4 Strike%) and induced four whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). This marked his first outing since April 23 and he owns a 0.75 WHIP with eight strikeouts versus no walks through eight innings. Matt Moore secured his fifth hold, issuing a walk and striking out two during a scoreless eighth. Adam Cimber collected his second win despite allowing a hit and two walks in a scoreless seventh. Hunter Strickland tossed a scoreless sixth, walking one.
Updated hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | Adam Cimber
April 23, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Tasked with a three-run lead, Carlos Estévez notched his fourth save, and first since April 6, firing a clean ninth and recording two strikeouts versus the 9-1-2 hitters from Baltimore. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He owns a 0.57 WHIP with seven strikeouts versus zero walks over seven innings. Luis García secured his second hold, logging 1.2 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out three. Matt Moore struggled, giving up a solo home run (Gunnar Henderson) among his two hits during one-third of the seventh. Adam Cimber tossed a scoreless sixth, walking one and striking out two.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | Luis García
April 18, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Appearing during a loss, Matt Moore tossed a scoreless bottom of the eighth, striking out one. He’s posted a 0.38 WHIP with six strikeouts versus zero walks over eight innings. Luis García fired 1.2 clean frames, striking out two on 15 pitches (13 strikes – 86.7 Strike%) and producing four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%). After a rough start this season, he’s recorded seven scoreless outings, spanning his last 6.2 innings.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | Luis García
April 17, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – It’s a rare combination, but Hunter Strickland collected his first win, and first blown save, in Tampa Bay. During the eighth inning, he allowed a go-ahead two-run home run by Amed Rosario. But, following his team’s rally in the top of the ninth, he recorded the final three outs, capping the comeback victory. All told, he gave up three hits, two earned runs, and struck out two over two innings. Adam Cimber notched his second hold, stranding two runners in the sixth and tossing 1.2 scoreless innings, yielding a hit and striking out two.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | Luis García
April 16, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Suffering his first loss, Carson Fulmer allowed a walk-off infield single in the bottom of the 13th. He finished with two hits against, two runs (one earned), and two walks while striking out three over 1.2 innings. José Cisnero was tagged with his first blown save, logging two innings and yielding a hit along with two unearned runs in them. Carlos Estévez also incurred his first blown save, giving up two, two-out singles before a game-tying two-RBI triple in the bottom of the ninth. He’s converted three of four save chances this year with a 0.67 WHIP over six innings. Matt Moore notched his fourth hold with a clean eighth. Hunter Strickland secured his first hold, striking out two in a clean seventh. Luis García turned in a clean sixth, recording his first hold.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | Luis García
April 15, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – During a non-save appearance, Carlos Estévez capped a comeback win, firing a clean bottom of the ninth and striking out two, preserving a four-run win in Tampa Bay. He threw eight pitches (87.5 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (37.5 SwStr%). He owns a 0.20 WHIP with four strikeouts versus zero walks over five innings. Matt Moore allowed two hits, including a solo home run, and two earned runs while striking out one in the eighth. Luis García collected his first win, working a clean seventh. Adam Cimber retired the side in order during the sixth.
Adjusted hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | Luis García
April 9, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – With José Soriano moving into the rotation, Adam Cimber takes over the second in line spot in this pecking order.
Adjusted hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | Adam Cimber
April 6, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Nailing down his third save, Carlos Estévez fired a clean ninth, striking out one. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (20 SwStr%). He owns a 0.33 WHIP with one strikeout over his first three innings and converted all three save chances. Matt Moore retired the side in order in the eighth for his second hold. Adam Cimber worked a clean seventh, striking out one for his first hold.
Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | José Soriano
April 3, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – First career save alert, this one by Guillermo Zuñiga during an eight-run win in Miami. He fired three clean frames, striking out one, needing only 28 pitches (60.7 Strike%) and producing two whiffs. José Cisnero secured his first hold, trending two runners and striking out his only batter faced in the bottom of the sixth on three pitches, all strikes.
April 2, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Hanging on for his first save of the year, and first since August 20, 2022, Luis García allowed a solo home run but recorded a game-ending strikeout, preserving a 3-1 win over Miami. He threw 19 pitches (11 strikes – 57.9 Strike%) and produced two whiffs. He now has an ERA (36.00) after not recording an out during his first appearance. Matt Moore retired the side in order in the eighth for his second hold. If interested, Adam Cimber was warming in case he was needed in the ninth with Carlos Estévez unavailable for this contest.
April 1, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Securing his second save, Carlos Estévez turned in a scoreless bottom of the ninth, yielding a hit. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) without inducing a whiff. Matt Moore notched his first hold, firing a clean eighth, and striking out one. Adam Cimber collected his first win, firing 1.2 clean frames and striking out one. José Suarez worked 1.1 scoreless innings, navigating around a hit and two walks while striking out two. José Cisnero scattered two hits during a scoreless fourth.
March 31, 2024
Los Angeles Angels -Save number one for Carlos Estévez, firing a clean bottom of the ninth while preserving a three-run win. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) without a whiff. José Soriano logged three scoreless frames, allowing a hit and two walks while striking out two. He threw 34 pitches (22 strikes – 64.7 Strike%) and induced four whiffs (11.8 SwStr%) for his first hold. Also, good news from the injuries and roster moves page on MLB.com regarding Robert Stephenson. He threw last Thursday and will again on Monday in Miami. He hopes he can return by the end of April.
March 28, 2024
Los Angeles Angels –In this post by Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register, he reported Robert Stephenson traveled with his teammates and threw on Thursday. Perry Minasian said the reliever does not have a timetable for his return, but “it should not be long.”
March 26, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Making his final spring outing, Carlos Estévez tossed a scoreless ninth, yielding a hit and striking out one. He threw 17 pitches (12 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) with two whiffs (11.8 SwStr%). He logged eight spring appearances, posting a 0.75 WHIP with six strikeouts and zero walks through eight innings. José Cisnero worked a scoreless eighth, allowing a hit and striking out one. Luis García turned in a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out two.
March 22, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Staking his claim atop his bullpen’s hierarchy, Carlos Estévez fired a clean ninth, striking out one for his second save this spring. By my count, he threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and produced one whiff, the game-ending strikeout. Through seven outings, he owns a 0.71 WHIP with five strikeouts and no walks. Adam Cimber retired the side in order in the eighth, recording two strikeouts, securing his second hold. José Cisnero worked a clean seventh, striking out two for his second hold.
March 17, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – In a column by Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register, Robert Stephenson will not be ready for Opening Day. He’s been throwing, but then the discomfort resurfaces. Although an MRI has only shown inflammation, the team will not rush him into game action so he’s available for the rest of the season. Plan accordingly in upcoming drafts.
March 15, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – At long last, an update regarding Robert Stephenson, but not one fantasy players like seeing. He’s trending toward missing Opening Day with lingering shoulder soreness per Jeff Fletcher in this tweet on “X”. Once the discomfort in the shoulder subsides, the reliever will restart his throwing regimen.
March 6, 2024
Los Angeles Angels – Following up on Robert Stephenson, he completed his bullpen session “pain-free”, and will throw again this weekend, then could appear in game action next week. His status for Opening Day remains in flux, but he’s trended in the right direction.
Los Angeles Angels – Positive news for Robert Stephenson from Jeff Fletcher on “X”. He reports the reliever will throw a bullpen session today and his manager believes he can be ready by Opening Day.
February 29, 2024
Los Angeles Angels -Although the team’s downplaying an update on MLB.com regarding Robert Stephenson undergoing soreness in his shoulder, this should be monitored closely by those fading Carlos Estévez for him in drafts this season.
September 22, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – Rookie fireballer Ben Joyce returned earlier in September after a multi-month absence and has looked impressive, striking out four in four scoreless innings, including an eighth-inning hold Thursday. Jimmy Herget served as an opener earlier this week, so that’s enough evidence for us to slide Joyce back into the hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Soriano | Joyce.
September 12, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – Jimmy Herget picked up his first save of the season on Monday, pitching a scoreless 11th inning. Carlos Estevez had the night off after pitching in back to back games.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Soriano | Herget.
September 1, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels lost two hierarchy members Thursday when Cleveland landed both Matt Moore and Reynaldo Lopez. We’ll slot in Jose Soriano, who had four holds in August, and Aaron Loup, who has an ERA above 5.00 on the season but had a pair of holds in August.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Soriano | Loup.
August 30, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels placed a bunch of guys on waivers yesterday, including relievers Reynaldo Lopez and Matt Moore. We’ll wait to see where Lopez and Moore land, but it’s safe to say there should be a few contenders interested in their services.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Lopez | Moore.
August 20, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – As predicted in the Vulture Save Watch, Carlos Estevez received the day off and Reynaldo Lopez picked up the save in game one of their doubleheader.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Lopez | Moore.
August 9, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – All three members of the Angels’ hierarchy were unavailable on Tuesday, which left the save chance to deadline acquisition Dominic Leone. He converted for his first save as an Angel.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Lopez | Moore.
August 1, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – The recently acquired Reynaldo Lopez picked up his first save with the Angels on Monday, securing five outs (three via a strikeout). Carlos Estevez threw more than 34 pitches in a two-inning outing on Sunday, so as the Vulture Save Watch predicted, he theoretically was unavailable Monday. But instead of Jose Soriano we saw Lopez, who with this usage will slot in right behind Estevez and we’ll see how the two are deployed moving forward.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Lopez | Moore.
July 28, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels swept their doubleheader on Thursday and are now just 3 games out of a Wild Card spot. Unfortunately, we won’t see fireballer Ben Joyce rejoin them for at least a few more weeks, as the righty was moved to the 60-day IL to make room for a few of their deadline acquisitions.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Moore | Soriano.
July 26, 2023
Los Angeles Angels — Carlos Estevez gave up four unearned runs in the ninth to send the game to extras, but when the Angels retook the lead in the top of the 10th, Aaron Loup came on to earn his first save of the season.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Moore | Soriano.
July 17, 2023
Los Angeles Angels — Chris Devenski was placed on the IL with a hamstring injury, but his place should be filled by Matt Moore, who returned from the IL this weekend.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Moore | Soriano.
June 17, 2023
Los Angeles Angels — Sam Bachman pitched a perfect final two innings of a 3-0 win last night for his first MLB save, which allowed the Angels’ hierarchy to have a needed night off. Bachman has allowed just one hit in nine innings of work this month, but he only has one hold in addition to the save and is primarily a multi-inning option.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Devenski | Soriano.
June 16, 2023
Los Angeles Angels — Carlos Estevez has been amazing this season, but he ran into trouble on Thursday with a three-run lead against the Rangers, walking all three hitters he faced. Jacob Webb entered the game and induced a foul-out and a line-out before walking in a run (charged to Estevez). He struck out Adolis Garcia to end the threat and secure his first save. Chris Devenski and Jose Soriano pitched earlier in the game.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Devenski | Soriano.
June 11, 2023
Los Angeles Angels — Ben Joyce has been placed on the IL. Jose Soriano has picked up two holds in his past two appearances and should see more time in the later innings for the Angels while Joyce is out.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Devenski | Soriano.
June 10, 2023
Los Angeles Angels — Ben Joyce felt some numbness in his fingers, and was removed from last night’s game. The speculation is that he will need an IL stint at this point, but he is set for an evaluation today. The Angels have every reason to be cautious with the young flamethrower, but we will leave him in the hierarchy until we get official word.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Devenski | Joyce.
June 2, 2023
Los Angeles Angels — Flamethrower Ben Joyce, drafted in 2022, burst upon the scene this week. He brought his electric stuff to face the Astros Thursday, throwing 10 pitches at 101 mph or above and striking out Yordan Alvarez and Jose Altuve in his one inning of work. They can’t keep Joyce away from the late innings for too long. We’ll speculatively throw him in this hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Devenski | Joyce.
June 1, 2023
Los Angeles Angels — Long man Tucker Davidson picked up his second save of the season, a gawky three-inning job that featured four runs and seven hits allowed.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Devenski | Silseth.
May 28, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – Matt Moore will be placed on the IL due to an oblique injury. Chase Silseth should see more time in the later innings with Moore out.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Devenski | Silseth.
May 15, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – After a dreadful outing against Cleveland on Saturday, the Angels designated Ryan Tepera for assignment. We’re guessing the veteran will catch on somewhere; meanwhile, look for Chris Devenski to get a few more hold opportunities.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Moore | Devenski.
May 9, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – An evening bereft of significant bullpen news allows us to use this space to highlight one of our favorite relievers in recent years. Cesar Valdez, the 38-year-old creator of the “Dead Fish” change-up — which he throws about 80% of the time, albeit with different grips and arm angles — was called up yesterday to the Angels’ major league roster. Last seen closing for the Orioles in early 2021, Valdez’s stint with Los Angeles marks his 13th organization across four countries in his 18-year career. His 7.27 ERA in AAA this season isn’t exactly promising, but his strikeout numbers (25 Ks in 26 IP) are perhaps more indicative of what the Angels were looking at when selecting his contract. Here’s hoping he sticks in the bigs.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Moore | Tepera.
May 4, 2023
Los Angeles Angels — Unfortunate news for the Angels and Jose Quijada, as the 27-year-old will undergo Tommy John surgery and be out through summer 2024.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Moore | Loup.
May 1, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – Sunday brought a 6th save for Carlos Estevez, who seems to have found his form (1.32 ERA and only three baserunners around in his last six outings) and is shedding his asterisk.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Moore | Loup.
April 29, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – If Estevez hadn’t pitched his way to the top spot of the Angels hierarchy, Jose Quijada hitting the IL yesterday certainly locked in his position. We expect Matt Moore to serve as the primary set up man, while Aaron Loup has gotten a hold in the Angels last two save opportunities. Andrew Wantz has also started the year well and may see some higher leverage work going forward.
Updated hierarchy: *Estevez | Moore | Loup.
* = closer-by-committee
April 28, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – The pendulum has swung in the direction of Carlos Estevez again for the Angels. On Thursday, Estevez came on to secure his team-high fifth save with a scoreless ninth that dropped his ERA to 1.42. Jose Quijada, who has four saves himself, allowed two runs (one earned) Thursday and all of a sudden has a 6.00 ERA. Estevez has taken the lead again for this committee and could run away with the job if he continues to pitch well.
Updated hierarchy: *Estevez | Quijada | Moore.
* = closer-by-committee
April 26, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – Carlos Estevez got the save on Tuesday, with Jose Quijada yet to pitch after Saturday’s disastrous outing. We’ll keep Quijada at the top of this committee for now and see if he gets the next save chance, as he had been fantastic up until that blown save.
Hierarchy remains: *Quijada | Estevez | Moore.
* = closer-by-committee
April 23, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – Perhaps we jinxed Jose Quijada by moving him to the head of the committee and mentioning his scoreless streak to start the season. Quijada was called upon for another save opportunity yesterday, but his scoreless start of the season came to a crashing end. Quijada ended up being charged with five earned runs yesterday while he was saddled with a blown save and loss. It was just one bad outing and it was encouraging to see him get the save chance, but we will see if this slip up allows impacts future save opportunities.
Hierarchy remains: *Quijada | Estevez | Moore.
* = closer-by-committee
April 22, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – With a 2 run lead in the 8th, the Angels turned to Carlos Estevez which left the 9th inning for Jose Quijada. Quijada converted for his 4th save on the year, which leads the team. Quijada continued his scoreless streak, and while Estevez will remain in the mix for saves, it looks like the inside track belongs to Quijada at this point, at least until he gives up a run. The Angels also optioned Jimmy Herget to AAA, and called up Austin Warren. Warren had an electric finish to 2021 before struggling throughout 2022, but he has been on fire in the minors and the Angels may give him some late inning chances if he can continue at the major league level. These transactions open up a hierarchy spot for Matt Moore, who picked up a 7th inning hold earlier this week.
Updated hierarchy: *Quijada | Estevez | Moore.
* = closer-by-committee
April 19, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – Carlos Estevez got the night off after a 26-pitch save on Monday, which allowed Jose Quijada to pick up his third save of the season with a 1-2-3 inning. Not only has Quijada not allowed a run yet this season, but he has only given up two hits in 7.0 IP.
Hierarchy remains: *Estevez | Quijada | Herget.
* = closer-by-committee
April 18, 2023
Los Angeles Angels – Carlos Estevez got his second save of the season on Monday, which makes his spot atop this committee slightly more secure. Jose Quijada, who pitched the 8th and has yet to allow a run on the year, remains an option.
Updated hierarchy: *Estevez | Quijada | Herget.
* = closer-by-committee
April 13, 2023
Los Angeles Angels — Vulture save for Jose Quijada, as we predicted in this space Wednesday morning.
Hierarchy remains: *Estevez | Quijada | Herget.
* = closer-by-committee
April 12, 2023
Los Angeles Angels — Carlos Estevez picked up his first save with the Angels on Tuesday, working around a walk to preserve a 2-0 win despite pitching for a third time in four days. Jose Quijada pitched a clean eighth inning and has yet to allow a run in four appearances.
Updated hierarchy: *Estevez | Quijada | Herget.
* = closer-by-committee
April 6, 2023
Los Angeles Angels — Jose Quijada is getting late-inning high-leverage work over Ryan Tepera and has moved into the Angel hierarchy as a result. On Wednesday, Carlos Estevez got an extra day of rest, with manager Phil Nevin trying to avoid overusing his top arms in the early season, and Quijada actually picked up the save.
Updated hierarchy: *Estevez | Herget | Quijada.
* = closer-by-committee
April 2, 2023
Los Angeles Angels — Tucker Davidson pitched four scoreless innings to finish out the Angels’ 13-1 victory yesterday and earn his first career save. Davidson will likely be the Angels’ sixth starter and does factor into their normal late inning bullpen plans.
Hierarchy remains: *Estevez | Herget | Tepera.
* = closer-by-committee
March 13, 2023
Los Angeles Angels — Former Rockie Carlos Estevez is the favorite to close for LA, with the Angels confident that his slider will play much better away from the thin Coors Field air. If Phil Nevin isn’t ready to fully commit to Estevez, look for Jimmy Herget and Ryan Tepera to resume their committee roles from last year, along with free agent acquisition Matt Moore.
Starting 2023 hierarchy: Estevez | Herget | Tepera.
* = closer-by-committee
Holds candidates: Herget, Tepera, Moore, Aaron Loup, Jose Quijada.
October 2, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – As predicted in the Vulture Save Watch, Jimmy Herget got the day off yesterday and Ryan Tepera picked up his sixth save of the season.
Hierarchy remains: *Herget | Tepera | Quijada.
* = closer-by-committee
October 1, 2022
Los Angeles Angels –Jimmy Herget was back for the 9th inning of a 3 run game to earn his 9th save of the year, but the Angels pulled off a feat that hadn’t been seen in 23 years: Their entire starting lineup including the pitcher had only ever played for the Angels. The last time the Angels did this their lineup included Tim Salmon, Bengie Molina and Troy Glaus. That core would go on to win the World Series, so in an otherwise forgettable season, maybe this is a sliver of a silver lining.
Hierarchy remains: *Herget | Tepera | Quijada.
* = closer-by-committee
September 30, 2022
Los Angeles Angels –Ryan Tepera threw three pitches to get a one-out save on Thursday — another save predicted by our Vulture Save Watch.
Hierarchy remains: *Herget | Tepera | Quijada.
* = closer-by-committee
September 28, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – After the Angels took the lead in the eighth, Jimmy Herget pitched a perfect ninth for his seventh save of the season. Herget and Ryan Tepera continue to be the top two arms in the Angels bullpen.
Hierarchy remains: *Herget | Tepera | Quijada.
* = closer-by-committee
September 24, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – With the 3-4-5 hitters coming up in the 8th inning, the Angels gave the ball to Jimmy Herget. He got through the inning and this left the save to Ryan Tepera. Tepera gave up a hit, but secured his 4th save on the year. The Angels don’t have much to play for, but Herget and Tepera have both pitched quite well down the stretch. They should continue to split save chances for the next couple weeks.
Hierarchy remains: *Herget | Tepera | Quijada.
* = closer-by-committee
September 21, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – Committee leader Jimmy Herget tossed a scoreless ninth inning on Tuesday for his sixth save of the season.
Hierarchy remains: *Herget | Tepera | Quijada.
* = closer-by-committee
September 19, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels seem to have settled on their top three relievers — Jimmy Herget, Ryan Tepera, and Jose Quijada — but they’re continuing to use them in a mix-and-match fashion. Yesterday, with a 2-run lead in the 7th, Herget was the first man out, collecting a hold with a scoreless frame. After the team stretched the lead to four, Tepera took the 8th, then Quijada locked down the 9th, albeit in a non-save situation. We’ll continue to monitor this bullpen, but it’s probably best to look elsewhere for saves if you have any alternatives.
Hierarchy remains: *Herget | Tepera | Quijada.
* = closer-by-committee
September 18, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – The entire Angels’ hierarchy got the night off yesterday after they all appeared in two of the prior three games. That left the save opportunity to Aaron Loup and the lefty converted for his first save of the season.
Hierarchy remains: *Herget | Quijada | Tepera.
* = closer-by-committee
September 17, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels made it interesting last night. Jose Quijada entered the 7th with a 2 run lead, and after loading the bases, he got an inning ending double play. Jimmy Herget walked the leadoff batter in the 8th, but got out of the inning without letting him advance. This left the 9th for Ryan Tepera, who gave up a solo homer to make it a 1 run game, but bounced back to get the last 2 outs and earn his 3rd save on the year. While Herget has been the best arm in the bullpen for the last month, last night showed that this is still a committee. If the Angels get hot again, like when they won 8 of 11 a few weeks ago, there should be some good vulture save chances down the stretch.
Hierarchy remains: *Herget | Quijada | Tepera.
* = closer-by-committee
August 30, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – Nursing a 1-run lead, the Angels had lefty Jose Quijada finish off the 8th inning, and then asked him to stay on to get through Anthony Rizzo. Once Rizzo was retired, Jimmy Herget came on for the game’s final two outs. This is still very much a committee, but since Herget has gotten the last two saves, we’ll shuffle him to the top.
Updated hierarchy: *Herget | Quijada | Tepera.
* = closer-by-committee
August 28, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – Jimmy Herget pitched two perfect innings to close out a 2-0 Angels’ victory and pick up his third save of the season. Lefty Jose Quijada was ready in the bullpen but with three righties up to start the 9th inning, Herget got the chance to start the inning and and was able to retire the first three batters. Quijada is still the head of this committee, but Herget has worked his way into the conversion with pitches like this.
Updated hierarchy: *Quijada | Herget | Chavez.
* = closer-by-committee
August 27, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – Ryan Tepera was placed on the restricted list yesterday on the way to Canada. If the Angels have to dig deep, it may be Jimmy Herget, who vultured a save earlier this month, that gets an increased role.
Updated hierarchy: *Quijada | Chavez | Herget.
* = closer-by-committee
August 15, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – Jose Quijada, king of the four-seamer [subscription], got his third save of the year on Sunday, closing out a 2-run game. As the only reliever with multiple saves since the trade of Raisel Iglesias, the lefty moves to the top of this committee.
Updated hierarchy: *Quijada | Tepera | Chavez.
* = closer-by-committee
August 9, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – Ryan Tepera got the save in a 1-run game on Monday night, and maintains his spot atop this very murky committee.
Hierarchy remains: *Tepera | Quijada | Chavez.
* = closer-by-committee
August 6, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – Recently-acquired Jesse Chavez was thrown straight into a save chance for the struggling Angels, but unfortunately, the veteran righty surrendered three runs in the bottom of the 9th and the game went to extras. The Angels ultimately went on to win after Jimmy Herget pitched a scoreless inning for his second save. We don’t have a good grasp of what’s going on here, but Phil Nevin said that last night’s usage was matchup based and that Chavez will “have his chances again.” We’ll put him on the hierarchy for now.
Updated hierarchy: *Tepera | Quijada | Chavez.
* = closer-by-committee
August 3, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels dealt Raisel Iglesias and his multi-year deal to Atlanta on Tuesday. The first save chance in the post-Iglesias era went to lefty Jose Quijada, who tossed a 1-2-3 ninth inning for his third MLB save (and second this season). Manager Phil Nevin said before the game that Quijada, Ryan Tepera and Aaron Loup would be his three options to pitch the ninth going forward. The A’s had two lefties due up in the ninth last night, so Quijada’s usage makes sense. We’ll leave Tepera at the top of this committee for now and see how Nevin deploys his relievers in other situations.
Updated hierarchy: *Tepera | Quijada | Loup.
* = closer-by-committee
August 2, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels pulled off the shocker and dealt Raisel Iglesias and his multi-year deal to the Atlanta Braves. In his place, let’s start with a committee headed by Ryan Tepera. Andrew Wantz will join Tepera and Aaron Loup in this hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: *Tepera | Loup | Wantz.
* = closer-by-committee
June 28, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – Raisel Iglesias was suspended two games and Ryan Tepera was suspended three games for their roles in the bench-clearing brawl with the Mariners over the weekend. They’re appealing their suspensions, but will likely both miss short stretches in the coming days. When that happens, look for the Angels to deploy Aaron Loup, Archie Bradley, and Oliver Ortega in the late innings.
Hierarchy remains: Iglesias | Tepera | Loup.
June 27, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – After Raisel Iglesias and Ryan Tepera both got ejected in an early-inning fracas, Oliver Ortega was tasked with the final two innings of a one-run game. Ortega delivered two scoreless innings, earning his first save of the season in the process.
Hierarchy remains: Iglesias | Tepera | Loup.
June 19, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – In game one of their doubleheader yesterday, Raisel Iglesias pitched a scoreless 9th inning with the game tied. After the Angels took the lead in the top of the 10th inning, Jose Quijada pitched a scoreless bottom of the 10th for his first save of the season. Ryan Tepera and Aaron Loup both pitched earlier in the game. In game two, Archie Bradley pitched a scoreless 9th inning for his second save of the season. We will keep Tepera and Loup on the hierarchy for now but Quijada and Bradley both performed well in their save opportunities yesterday and we will see how the Angels handle the innings ahead of closer Raisel Iglesias moving forward.
Hierarchy remains: Iglesias | Tepera | Loup.
June 5, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – Raisel Iglesias hasn’t pitched in nine days but there are no injury concerns. The Angels have lost 10 in a row and Iglesias said he doesn’t need to get into a game just to get some work in. Hopefully, for fantasy owners, the Angels can win a game and maybe even give Iglesias a reason to pitch.
Hierarchy remains: Iglesias | Tepera | Loup.
May 16, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – Jimmy Herget pitched the final 2.2 innings of the Angels 3-run victory, picking up his first save. He doesn’t factor in to the Angels’ usual late-inning plans.
Hierarchy remains: Iglesias | Tepera | Loup.
May 2, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – With his team up by 6 runs entering the 9th, Raisel Iglesias probably wasn’t expecting to pitch. But when Michael Lorenzen faltered after an otherwise remarkable 8.1 innings, Iglesias proceeded to allow five of the six baserunners he faced to reach base; fortunately, Ryan Tepera bailed him out by getting the game’s final out with the bases loaded. Iglesias had only allowed 1 run on the season prior to Sunday, so he’s not in danger yet.
Hierarchy remains: Iglesias | Tepera | Loup.
April 12, 2022
Los Angeles Angels – Ryan Tepera pitched a clean 8th inning ahead of Raisel Iglesias, which is the second consecutive time he’s been used in this fashion. He and Aaron Loup appear to be the main bridges to Iglesias.
Updated hierarchy: Iglesias | Tepera | Loup.
March 21, 2022
Los Angeles Angels — Raisel Iglesias re-signed with the Angels and will enter 2022 as their unquestioned closer after a stellar season in 2021 that saw him strike out 103 batters against only 12 walks in 70 innings. The Angels also bolstered their bullpen by signing Aaron Loup, after he finished 2021 with an ERA under 1.00, as well as Archie Bradley and Ryan Tepera. Mike Mayers returns after serving as a key member of the Angels’ bullpen last year. We will slot Archie Bradley behind Iglesias based on his closing experience (30 career saves) while lefty Aaron Loup rounds out the hierarchy for now.
Starting 2022 hierarchy: Iglesias | Bradley | Loup.
Holds candidates: Bradley, Loup, Mike Mayers, Ryan Tepera.
August 20, 2021
Los Angeles Angels — Austin Warren tossed the final two innings Thursday for his first save this season. Raisel Iglesias got a four-out save Sunday and also pitched Wednesday, so perhaps rest was in order. Mike Mayers, meanwhile, pitched the seventh inning Thursday ahead of Warren, who has been pitching in Angels wins lately, but is typically the first reliever out of the pen. We’ll monitor his usage in the coming days and weeks, but for now, let’s keep this hierarchy the way it is.
Hierarchy remains: Iglesias | Cishek | Mayers.
July 31, 2021
Los Angeles Angels — While Raisel Iglesias didn’t get traded yesterday, Tony Watson did, heading back to San Francisco. The Angels recently said that Mike Mayers wouldn’t be getting high leverage work, but a lack of options for the Angels finds him right back on the hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Iglesias | Cishek | Mayers.
July 28, 2021
Los Angeles Angels — Joe Maddon told reporters prior to Tuesday’s tilt that he’s going to avoid using Mike Mayers in high-leverage situations for the time being. Teams are reportedly reaching out to the Angels about Raisel Iglesias, so if the Angels do decide to waive the white flag, someone like Steve Cishek could see a boost in fantasy value.
Updated hierarchy: Iglesias | Cishek | Watson.
July 8, 2021
Los Angeles Angels — Steve Cishek has locked down the seventh inning for the Angels ahead of Mike Mayers and Raisel Iglesias.
Updated hierarchy: Iglesias | Mayers | Cishek.
June 12, 2021
Los Angeles Angels — After Raisel Iglesias couldn’t protect a one-run lead in the ninth inning, the tenth went to Steve Cishek and Alex Claudio. Claudio struck out the last batter to earn his first save of the year. Claudio spent some time as the Rangers closer back in 2017, but isn’t a usual part of the Angels’ late-inning plans.
Hierarchy remains: Iglesias | Mayers | Watson.
May 17, 2021
Los Angeles Angels – Having not used him in six days, the Angels wanted to get Raisel Iglesias some work, so they summoned him for the bottom of the 8th down by a run. Iglesias pitched a scoreless inning and would go on to get the win when the Angels scored twice in the top of the 9th; Mike Mayers ended up getting the save.
Hierarchy remains: Iglesias | Mayers | Watson.
May 10, 2021
Los Angeles Angels – Tony Watson returned from the IL on Sunday and picked up where he left off, earning a 7th inning hold ahead of Mike Mayers and Raisel Iglesias.
Updated hierarchy: Iglesias | Mayers | Watson.
May 8, 2021
Los Angeles Angels — When the Angels blew the game open in the sixth, they left Patrick Sandoval in to pitch the final three innings of an eight-run game. He gave up a solo homer in the ninth but was otherwise unscathed to pick up his first career safe. Sandoval is more of a long reliever and doesn’t usually factor into the Angels’ late-inning plans.
Hierarchy remains: Iglesias | Mayers | Slegers.
May 4, 2021
Los Angeles Angels – Tony Watson was placed on the IL over the weekend; look for Aaron Slegers to benefit from a few additional hold opportunities in his absence. Also, Mike Mayers figures to be out for a few days after being placed on the non-designation IL (most likely suggesting COVID precautions).
Updated hierarchy: Iglesias | Mayers | Slegers.
April 29, 2021
Los Angeles Angels — Tony Watson got five outs in the sixth and seventh to protect a one-run lead for the Angels, and has taken over the second-in-line position from Steve Cishek, whose last two outings came in the fourth.
Updated hierarchy: Iglesias | Mayer | Watson.
April 6, 2021
Los Angeles Angels – Raisel Iglesias got the night off after a 30-pitch outing on Sunday, allowing Mike Mayers to pick up the save. The Vulture Save Watch — you read it, right?
Hierarchy remains: Iglesias | Mayer | Cishek.
April 5, 2021
Los Angeles Angels — Ty Buttrey has been a mainstay in the Angels’ hierarchy ever since his 2018 callup, and he deserves a sendoff worthy of his insightful retirement post. Much respect and all the best to Buttrey as he moves into a more rewarding chapter of his life. We’ll always have that melting butter entrance video to remember him by.
Hierarchy remains: Iglesias | Mayers | Cishek.
April 1, 2021
Los Angeles Angels — In a surprising move, the Angels optioned Ty Buttrey. To replace Buttrey, the Angels signed a couple of veterans in Steve Cishek and Tony Watson. We will slide Cishek in to Buttrey’s spot in the hierarchy to start the season.
Updated hierarchy: Iglesias | Mayers | Cishek.
March 26, 2021
Los Angeles Angels — Felix Pena is expected to start the season on the IL with a strained hamstring, and Ty Buttrey will likely handle the seventh in his absence.
Updated hierarchy: Iglesias | Mayers | Buttrey.
March 3, 2021
Los Angeles Angels — LA traded for closer Raisel Iglesias over the winter; behind him, the only three returning relievers who pitched more than 10 innings for the Angels are last year’s hierarchy mainstays: Ty Buttrey, Mike Mayers, and Felix Pena.
Starting 2021 hierarchy: Iglesias | Mayers | Pena.
Holds candidates: Mayers, Pena, Buttrey.
September 24, 2020
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels went back to Mike Mayers for the third game in a row and he pitched a scoreless 8th inning. Mayers came back out for the 9th as the Angels were looking for him to get more than 3 outs for the 8th straight appearance, but after he gave up a leadoff single, they brought in Felix Pena to finish the game. He gave up a single of his own but escaped without giving up a run for his second save of the year. Mayers still seems to be the top option for saves going into the final weekend, but as the vulture save watch will note, he is in need of a rest.
Updated hierarchy: *Mayers | Pena | Buttrey.
* = closer-by-committee
September 23, 2020
Los Angeles Angels – Mike Mayers secured his second save in as many days on Tuesday thanks to 1.2 scoreless innings. He’s looking like the Angels’ best ninth-inning option for the remainder of the year.
Hierarchy remains: *Mayers | Buttrey | Pena.
* = closer-by-committee
September 22, 2020
Los Angeles Angels – Mike Mayers continued his sparkling run, collecting his first save of the year with two perfect innings against the Rangers. Mayers has now allowed just 1 earned run in his last 24 innings (including his most recent stretch, when he’s retired 42 of the last 45 hitters faced), and with Ty Buttrey struggling again in his last outing on Sunday, the Angels might do well to let Mayers close the rest of the way.
Updated hierarchy: *Mayers | Buttrey | Pena.
* = closer-by-committee
September 14, 2020
Los Angeles Angels – We knew Ty Buttrey wouldn’t pitch on Sunday, but we didn’t predict that veteran Matt Andriese would throw the final two innings, nabbing his second save in as many nights. After a brutal August, Andriese has allowed just 1 hit in 5.2 innings in September.
Hierarchy remains: *Buttrey | Pena | Mayers.
* = closer-by-committee
September 13, 2020
Los Angeles Angels — Matt Andriese recorded an extra-innings save for the Angels yesterday. The entire Angels’ hierarchy had pitched earlier in the game and Ty Buttrey recorded the win with a scoreless 10th inning. Andriese does not factor into the Angels’ normal late-inning bullpen plans.
Hierarchy remains: *Buttrey | Pena | Mayers.
* = closer-by-committee
September 12, 2020
Los Angeles Angels — The Angels hierarchy was used in order on Friday night, but Ty Buttrey wasted great outings by Mike Mayers and Felix Pena, blowing the save and taking the eventual loss. This was Buttrey’s fourth blown save, and the league-leading 13th for LA. The next save chance could well go to a different pitcher.
Hierarchy remains: *Buttrey | Pena | Mayers.
* = closer-by-committee
September 7, 2020
Los Angeles Angels – Mike Mayers pitched the 8th in a tie game on Sunday, picking up the win when the Angels took the lead. The 28-year-old righty has put together a dominant run since late July, having allowed only 1 earned run in his last 16 appearances.
Updated hierarchy: *Buttrey | Pena | Mayers.
* = closer-by-committee
September 6, 2020
Los Angeles Angels — We mentioned yesterday that Felix Pena could possibly replace Ty Buttrey as the Angels’ closer and sure enough, in game 1 of the doubleheader with the Angels protecting a 1 run lead, out came Pena came for the save. Unfortunately for any fantasy owners that picked up Pena, he couldn’t get the job down. He gave up 3 runs on 4 hits (two of them for extra bases) but did end up with a win after the Angels rallied in the bottom of the inning. In the second game of the doubleheader, the Angels again found themselves up 1 heading into the last inning and this time Buttrey was summoned from the bullpen. Buttrey responded with a perfect inning to record the save. This appears to be a committee for now and we give Buttrey the edge for now based on his success yesterday.
Hierarchy remains: Buttrey | Pena | Bedrosian.
* = closer-by-committee
September 5, 2020
Los Angeles Angels — Ty Buttrey came on in the easiest kind of save opportunity — a three-run lead in the ninth — but he put three of the four batters he faced on base, and all eventually scored. Back-to-back outings allowing three earned runs have inflated his ERA to 5.68, and should put Felix Pena squarely on your radar as his potential replacement.
Hierarchy remains: Buttrey | Pena | Bedrosian.
September 4, 2020
Los Angeles Angels – Felix Pena retired the side on nine pitches for his first save of the season and the only save on Thursday night. Ty Buttrey had pitched in three of four and got the night off. Pena has now pitched in four of five and will need some rest, too.
Hierarchy remains: Buttrey | Pena | Bedrosian.
September 3, 2020
Los Angeles Angels – Cam Bedrosian was activated from the IL after missing nearly all of August, and pitched a clean inning last night (although on the wrong side of a blowout). We think he jumps back into the hierarchy with Hoby Milner out with back spasms.
Updated hierarchy: Buttrey | Pena | Bedrosian.
August 11, 2020
Los Angeles Angels – After Hansel Robles was demoted, we assumed Ty Buttrey would get the bulk of the late inning work. And with that proving true — Buttrey got his second save last night — we’ll remove his asterisk. Keynan Middleton also joins the hierarchy after another solid outing.
Updated hierarchy: Buttrey | Pena | Middleton.
August 5, 2020
Los Angeles Angels — In a not-so-surprising move, Joe Maddon announced that Hansel Robles is out as closer and that the Angels will employ a closer-by-committee. We got a first look at that committee on Tuesday, as Hoby Milner, Felix Pena and Ty Buttrey combined to close out a 5-3 victory. Pena, who started the eighth inning against the 2-3-4 hitters, had looked the best of a mediocre bunch so far this season, though he did allow his first run of 2020 on Tuesday and only recorded two outs before Buttrey finished the frame and stayed on for a 1-2-3 ninth to pick up the save. We’ll keep Buttrey at the top of what could be quite a volatile committee.
Updated hierarchy: *Buttrey | Pena | Milner.
* = closer-by-committee
August 2, 2020
Los Angeles Angels — Hansel Robles’ nightmare start to the season continued on Saturday. Robles gave up three runs in a blown save and now has given up 9 runs in 4 appearances. The entire Angels bullpen has been struggling, but Felix Pena threw two scoreless innings ahead of Robles yesterday and that is enough to earn him a spot on the hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Robles | Buttrey | Pena.
February 24, 2020
Los Angeles Angels — Hansel Robles should return to the closer role for LA, with Ty Buttrey recovering from an intercostal strain and expected to be healthy and in the setup role by Opening Day. The rest of the Angels bullpen will look familiar too, with perennial “future closers” Cam Bedrosian and Keynan Middleton the top two options for the seventh inning.
Updated hierarchy: Robles | Buttrey | Middleton.
Holds candidates: Buttrey, Bedrosian, Middleton, Noe Ramirez.
September 1, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — Cam Bedrosian has been placed on the IL with a right forearm strain. Keynan Middleton has a couple of scoreless appearances since returning from injury and he could see more time in the later innings as a result of Bedrosian’s injury.
Updated hierarchy: Robles | Buttrey | Middleton.
August 28, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — Former closer Keynan Middleton is finally back on the Angels’ active roster after a 15-month rehab from Tommy John surgery. Brad Ausmus said that Middleton won’t close and is a candidate to open some games. However, while Ausmus prefers to keep Middleton in low-leverage spots, the Angels’ manager also said that it wouldn’t bother him to put Middleton in a close contest.
Hierarchy remains: Robles | Buttrey | Bedrosian.
July 13, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — Last night when all the Angels were wearing number 45 in honor of Tyler Skaggs, Felix Pena delivered an inspired relief performance after taking over in the third inning. He threw seven scoreless and hitless innings to earn a combined no-hitter with opener Taylor Cole. Pena only gave up one walk while striking out six before an emotional tribute to Skaggs, in what will surely go down as one of the most memorable moments of the season.
Hierarchy remains: Skaggs | Skaggs | Skaggs.
June 26, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — Noe Ramirez struggled last month, culminating in a four-hit, five-run disaster on May 23. Since then, Ramirez has thrown 16.1 scoreless innings in a row and struck out 21 batters in that span. That includes three Ks over 1.2 innings of work last night in a 5-1 win. Ramirez probably isn’t ahead of Cam Bedrosian right now, but he’s certainly pitching his way into the late-inning conversation for the Angels.
Hierarchy remains: Robles | Buttrey | Bedrosian.
June 16, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — Hansel Robles picked up his tenth save of the season yesterday while Cam Bedrosian got the 7th inning ahead of Ty Buttrey and Robles just a couple days after recording a save while Robles and Buttrey were rested. We will drop the asterisk from Robles (probably long overdue) and slide Bedrosian into the hierarchy. In other Angels bullpen news, the team designated Cody Allen for assignment. Maybe they could sign the man who saved 62 games for them back in 2008 to replace Allen as Francisco Rodriguez still wants to pitch in the majors.
Updated hierarchy: Robles | Buttrey | Bedrosian.
June 14, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — A deep cut for the Vulture Save Watch! The Angels’ top dogs, Hansel Robles and Ty Buttrey, did indeed get the night off Thursday, leaving Justin Anderson for the eighth inning and Cam Bedrosian for the ninth, earning his first save of 2019.
Hierarchy remains: *Robles | Buttrey | Anderson.
* = closer-by-committee
May 27, 2019
Los Angeles Angels – Score another for the Vulture Save Watch, as Justin Anderson picked up his first save of the year on Sunday with Hansel Robles and Ty Buttrey both getting the day off.
Hierarchy remains: *Robles | Buttrey | Anderson.
* = closer-by-committee
May 19, 2019
Los Angeles Angels – Ty Buttrey recorded the last five outs yesterday for this second save of the season. Despite a pretty bad entrance video based on his last name, Buttrey has been fantastic this year as yesterday’s outing lowered his ERA to 0.76. He also struck out three to raise his total to 31 on the season in just 23.2 innings. Unfortunately for fantasy owners, Hansel Robles will probably still see more save opportunities for now. Robles recorded the last three saves for the Angels before last night and Buttrey likely got the save yesterday so that Robles would be available on Sunday.
Hierarchy remains: *Robles | Buttrey | Anderson.
* = closer-by-committee
May 14, 2019
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels placed Luis Garcia on the IL with back spasms. Justin Anderson got a 6th inning hold in his place yesterday; look for Anderson to get a few more hold opportunities while Garcia is out.
Updated hierarchy: *Robles | Buttrey | Anderson.
* = closer-by-committee
May 8, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — Hansel Robles collected his third save of the year after Ty Buttrey completed a 1-2-3 eighth inning. In other news, the Angels activated Cody Allen from the IL.
Hierarchy remains: *Robles | Buttrey | Garcia.
* = closer-by-committee
May 2, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — Ty Buttrey kept the committee alive in LA, grabbing a two-inning save, his first of the year.
Hierarchy remains: *Robles | Buttrey | Garcia.
* = closer-by-committee
May 1, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — Ty Buttrey faced the 2-3-4 hitters in the eighth inning and retired them all to keep the game tied. After the Angels took the lead in the bottom half of the frame, Hansel Robles got the ball in the ninth and recorded his second save of the season. We had mentioned earlier this month that Buttrey may get the highest-leverage work of the game, which would free up Robles for more save chances. That seems to have been the case here. Buttrey certainly could get save opportunities of his own, but we’ll move Robles up to the top spot in the hierarchy based on tonight’s usage.
Updated hierarchy: *Robles | Buttrey | Garcia.
* = closer-by-committee
April 27, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — Just a few days after losing his closer job, Cody Allen was placed on the IL with a back injury. It’s possible the injury is to blame for some of Allen’s struggles this year, but he will still have to earn his place at the back end of the bullpen when he returns.
Hierarchy remains: *Buttrey | Robles | Garcia.
* = closer-by-committee
April 26, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — Pitching for the first time since he lost the closer’s gig, Cody Allen looked shaky again on Thursday. Allen walked the first two men he faced, mixed in a strikeout, allowed a single to load the bases, added a second K and then walked in a run to make it 11-5 Angels before he was pulled. Yikes.
Hierarchy remains: *Buttrey | Robles | Garcia.
* = closer-by-committee
April 25, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — Each of the Angels’ three fill-in closer options saw work in last night’s game against the Yankees. Luis Garcia fared the worst, giving up three walks and a single while retiring no one. Ty Buttrey allowed two of those runners (sac fly; fielder’s choice), then made it through a clean eighth before yielding the go-ahead run in a two-out rally in the ninth. Hansel Robles retired the last Yankee hitter. Buttrey’s swing-and-miss stuff and his shot at a three-inning fireman save seem to confirm that he’ll be the first choice going forward. Another possibility is that Buttrey gets the highest-leverage work each game, leaving Hansel Robles to handle the ninth more often than not.
Hierarchy remains: *Buttrey | Robles | Garcia.
* = closer-by-committee
April 24, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — Prior to Wednesday night’s game, Brad Ausmus announced that Cody Allen would get a break from closing in favor of a committee that will include Ty Buttrey, Hansel Robles, and Luis Garcia.
Updated hierarchy: *Buttrey | Robles | Garcia.
* = closer-by-committee
April 22, 2019
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels joined the “opener” trend, starting Hansel Robles on Sunday against Seattle, but the main news was another bad outing by Cody Allen, who allowed a home run and a walk to the two hitters he faced before being yanked for Luis Garcia, who picked up the save. After five scoreless outings to open the season, Allen has now given up runs in four consecutive outings. Brad Ausmus might not be worried, but we are.
Hierarchy remains: Allen | Buttrey | Robles.
April 20, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — Cody Allen took the loss for the second day in a row, giving up two runs without recording an out. Allen started the year 4-for-4 in save opportunites, but has now given up runs in three straight games, while Ty Buttrey has remained perfect. Allen isn’t in immediate danger of losing the closer’s spot, but with the Angels in a five-game slide, his seat is getting warmer.
Hierarchy remains: Allen | Buttrey | Robles.
April 11, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — We correctly anticipated Cody Allen’s night off, but Ty Buttrey got one too, leaving the save to Hansel Robles and his awe-inspiring entrance video. Call him Rambo.
Hierarchy remains: Allen | Buttrey | Robles.
April 6, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — Cody Allen locked up the first save of the Angels’ season on Friday. We haven’t seen much of the team’s bullpen — they haven’t held many leads — but last night they pitched well. Ty Buttrey took the eighth and pitched to the heart of the Rangers order, while Hansel Robles pitched a clean seventh. Buttrey has been a little bit better to start the season, so he slides up to first in line, but he and Robles will split time as the bridge to Allen.
Updated hierarchy: Allen | Buttrey | Robles.
February 18, 2019
Los Angeles Angels — The Angels spent much of 2018 with the most confusing bullpen in baseball. Nine men picked up saves, led by Blake Parker (14) and Keynan Middleton (6). In January, LA signed longtime Indians closer Cody Allen on a one-year deal. He will close games to begin the year for the Angels, and he’s coming off his worst career season (4.70 ERA, 1.358 WHIP), so he should be motivated to make much more money in next year’s offseason (if that’s even a possibility given this market…). Either way, Allen will lead a crop of young and talented arms, led by Ty Buttrey, Hansel Robles, Justin Anderson, and Middleton, who is expected back by the midseason (Tommy John surgery), and will likely be a future closer somewhere given his stuff and makeup.
Starting 2019 hierarchy: Allen | Robles | Buttrey.
Holds candidates: Robles, Buttrey, Anderson, Bedrosian.
September 29, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — After watching their eight-run lead whittled down to three, the Angels turned to Hansel Robles to close out Friday’s win. Robles has saves in consecutive appearances, while Jim Johnson picked up the other save for the Angels this week. This is certainly a committee, but it is curious to see Blake Parker in a set up role after being effective as a closer earlier in the season. That having been said, Parker is well rested, having not pitched in the last three days, so expect him to get some work this weekend.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Robles | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
September 27, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — Jim Johnson, who had given up nine hits in his last two appearances, was Mike Scioscia’s first choice to pitch the ninth inning in a save situation on Wednesday night. And although it’s no longer 2013, Johnson made it work. After the game, we learned that Ty Buttrey would be shut down for the rest of the season with bursitis in his right knee.
Updated hierarchy: *Parker | Robles | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
September 26, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Blake Parker completed Tuesday’s eighth inning, but it was Hansel Robles, not Ty Buttrey, who earned last night’s save. Buttrey, who was coming off a second straight blown save on Monday, was reportedly unavailable after working two of the previous three days. We’ll keep an eye on how Mike Scioscia handles his bullpen over the final five days of the season.
Updated hierarchy: *Buttrey | Parker | Robles.
* = closer-by-committee
September 17, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Ty Buttrey has gotten the last three Angels saves. Blake Parker has been totally fine lately, so chalk this one up to Scioscia being Scioscia, but Buttrey now sits atop this committee.
Updated hierarchy: *Buttrey | Parker | Anderson.
* = closer-by-committee
September 12, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — After Blake Parker blew a combined no-hitter in the eighth inning, Ty Buttrey came on to record the final four outs of Tuesday’s 1-0 victory and lower his ERA to 0.77 in the process. Buttrey has allowed just one earned run over 11.2 IP this season and now has two of the Angels’ last three saves. Mike Scioscia, who used eight different pitchers last night, has not yet anointed Buttrey as his new closer, but at the very least Buttrey is firmly in the mix for save chances. We’ll keep Parker at the top of a committee at the moment, but Buttrey is worth a stash on your postseason roster if he is available.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Buttrey | Anderson.
* = closer-by-committee
September 10, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — After Blake Parker put the go-ahead runs on base in the ninth, Jose Alvarez came on to strike out a fellow lefty and pick up his first save of the year.
Hierarchy remains: Parker | Buttrey | Anderson.
September 8, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – With a three-run lead, the Angels turned to Jose Alvarez in the 8th and rookie Ty Buttrey in the 9th. Buttrey pitched a clean inning to pick up his first career save. Buttrey has made the most of his call-up, only giving up one run over 10 appearances (0.96 ERA). Blake Parker is still the most likely option to get saves, and he has two years of arbitration left so the Angels probably won’t be looking to replace him. However, the team may use the rest of September to see if the hard-throwing Buttrey can be their closer of the future.
Updated hierarchy: Parker | Buttrey | Anderson.
September 1, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Ty Buttrey pitched the 9th inning ahead of Blake Parker last night to pick up his third hold of the season. The rookie has been solid since his call-up, and last night he worked out of a self-imposed jam by striking out Jose Altuve and getting Carlos Correa to pop up. Buttrey posted excellent numbers at AAA this season (2.20 ERA, 74 Ks in 49 innings) and looks ready to be a key piece of the big-league bullpen. Meanwhile, Cam Bedrosian has not pitched with a lead since August 14th.
Updated hierarchy: Parker | Anderson | Buttrey.
August 28, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Several Angels relievers, including set-up man Justin Anderson, combined to cough up an 8th inning lead, but the team would grab the lead again in the bottom half of the inning, and in the 9th, Noe Ramirez was sent to the mound to record the final three outs. Ramirez pitched a clean inning for his first save of the year. Blake Parker had pitched in two straight, though his pitch count wasn’t especially high, so it was a little surprising not to see him used here. But we’ll assume everything is fine unless we hear otherwise.
Hierarchy remains: Parker | Anderson | Bedrosian.
August 14, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Blake Parker pitched the 9th inning yet again, this time with his team up by four runs. Over the last month and a half, the only time anyone other than Parker has gotten a save chance was when the righty needed a night off. We’re removing his asterisk in a probably-overdue move.
Updated hierarchy: Parker | Anderson | Bedrosian.
July 9, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Blake Parker had pitched in back to back and three of four games, so Justin Anderson was tapped for the save last night against the Dodgers. The Vulture Save Watch strikes again.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Anderson | Bedrosian.
* = closer-by-committee
June 23, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — One day after Justin Anderson’s noteworthy save, Blake Parker pitched a perfect 9th inning in a one-run game to lock down his ninth save of the year. Parker had been going through a rough stretch, so this outing was badly needed to right the ship. Meanwhile, Cam Bedrosian recorded his second straight hold, and has only given up one earned run in June. This is one of the most unpredictable bullpens in the majors, and this past week keeps that designation alive.
Updated hierarchy: *Parker | Anderson | Bedrosian
* = closer-by-committee
June 22, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — Here’s another update on one of the most volatile bullpens in baseball. Justin Anderson, not Blake Parker, picked up the save Thursday night. One Angels beat writer found Anderson’s save “noteworthy,” but no one else elaborated any further. We think it’s noteworthy, too, especially since Parker was off the previous day and had allowed five runs in his three previous appearances. Grab Anderson as a handcuff if he’s still available.
Updated hierarchy: *Parker | Anderson | Alvarez.
* = closer-by-committee
June 20, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Blake Parker struck out four in a two-inning save on Tuesday, though he did give up a two-run homer in the ninth to make things interesting. Parker has now allowed an earned run in each of his last three appearances, pushing his ERA to 3.50. It’s still worth keeping an eye on this situation to see if Parker can put together a couple scoreless outings in a row.
Hierarchy remains: Parker | Anderson | Alvarez.
June 18, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Four days after a weird, 2-inning appearance that started in the 7th, Blake Parker was summoned in a more traditional closer spot to protect a 2-run lead in the 9th. But Parker blew the save, and given how quick Mike Scioscia has been to move things around in the past, this bullpen suddenly bears watching again.
Hierarchy remains: Parker | Anderson | Alvarez.
June 16, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Jim Johnson has landed on the 10-day DL with a lower back strain. The most likely candidate to take his place in the hierarchy is Jose Alvarez, who picked up a couple of holds last week. However, look for Cam Bedrosian, who pitched the 8th inning last night, to also see an increased role.
Updated hierarchy: Parker | Anderson | Alvarez.
June 9, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Blake Parker converted his third straight save opportunity and is now 6-for-7 on the year. Parker has run with the opportunity to lead the Angels bullpen, and while Mike Scioscia has a reputation for chaotic bullpen management, he does tend to stick with a player who is having a run of success. This is enough for Parker to kick the asterisk.
Hierarchy remains: Parker | Anderson | Johnson.
June 5, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels went back to Blake Parker for the save chance last night, as was mostly expected, and he converted his fourth save with a scoreless inning. After a brutal spring training and a shaky start to the year, Parker has found his form, having allowed just 2 ER in his last 15.2 IP. Look for him to continue to lead this committee, and potentially win the job outright with a few more conversions.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Anderson | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
June 4, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Justin Anderson picked up his second save of the season, but it wasn’t the smoothest outings. After quickly retiring the first two hitters, he issued full-count walks to the next three batters before inducing a game-ending flyout. Our best guess is that the next opportunity goes back to Blake Parker, who likely wasn’t in this one because he’d pitched in each of the two previous days.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Anderson | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
June 3, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — The Los Angeles Angels called on Blake Parker for the third straight save opportunity, and if he had converted, he might have been able to shed the asterisk. Unfortunately, for Angels fans and fantasy owners, Parker could not get the job done. Parker remains atop the committee for now, but Justin Anderson has eight straight scoreless appearances and could work his way back into the mix.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Anderson | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
May 24, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — The Angels used Jim Johnson, Justin Anderson, and Blake Parker in that order against the Blue Jays on Wednesday. Parker’s ninth inning wasn’t a thing of beauty — he escaped only thanks to a perfect Kole Calhoun throw to nail Curtis Granderson on a would-be sac fly — but he got the job done. As promised, he gets the promotion to the top chair.
Updated hierarchy: *Parker | Anderson | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
May 21, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Amidst the turmoil in the Angels bullpen as of late, Blake Parker has quietly found his form. On Sunday, he logged his 9th straight scoreless outing, picking up his second save of the year. If he gets another one, he’ll jump to the top of this perpetually-in-flux hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: *Anderson | Parker | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
May 18, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — There’s unfortunate news for Keynan Middleton, who will undergo Tommy John surgery, ending his season. Meanwhile, the healthy members of the Angels bullpen continue to falter. Jim Johnson entered Thursday night’s game in the seventh inning with a 1-0 deficit and ran into trouble — single, flyout, homer, single, single — before departing. He was charged with four runs (three earned) while recording just one out. We like Justin Anderson more and more to get the next save chance after Johnson’s performance Thursday.
Hierarchy remains: *Anderson | Johnson | Bedrosian.
* = closer-by-committee
May 16, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – With two lefties leading off the eighth inning, Mike Scioscia called on Jose Alvarez to protect a 3-1 lead. Alvarez quickly loaded the bases for right-handed Jose Altuve. Instead of going to Cam Bedrosian, who was warming up, Scioscia stuck with Alvarez and Altuve cleared the bases with a double. After the game, Scioscia chalked it up to the Astros doing a good job in the batter’s box, and thought that Alvarez has good stuff against both lefties and righties. The other thing to note is that Jim Johnson pitched the ninth, and that was likely the plan if the Angels kept their lead as well. What is clear is that the path to the ninth inning is still full of intrigue, and that won’t be changing any time soon.
Hierarchy remains: *Anderson | Johnson | Bedrosian.
* = closer-by-committee
May 15, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Following the bad news from Keynan Middleton’s MRI, Justin Anderson got the first save chance for the Angels and converted, successfully protecting a 1-run lead against the Astros. Jim Johnson, Cam Bedrosian, and Blake Parker had all been worked pretty heavily going into last night’s game, which likely led to Anderson’s usage, but since he converted, we’re compelled to move him to the top. This feels like a committee going forward, but when it comes to the 9th inning, success usually leads to more opportunity.
Updated hierarchy: *Anderson | Johnson | Bedrosian.
* = closer-by-committee
May 14, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Keynan Middleton is not on the active roster tonight and appears to be headed to the DL after he injured his right elbow on Sunday. The Angels will continue to rely on a committee of arms to close out games, with Jim Johnson the likely leader of a group that includes Justin Anderson, Cam Bedrosian, Noe Ramirez and even Blake Parker.
* = closer-by-committee
Los Angeles Angels – Keynan Middleton exited Sunday’s game with a sore right elbow and will have an MRI today. No one really seized on the role in his recent absence, though Jim Johnson did convert a save on Thursday and is probably the best guy to own if Middleton is going to miss time.
* = closer-by-committee
Los Angeles Angels — After pitching the eighth inning last night, Justin Anderson remained out for the ninth with a chance to pick up the save with the Angels clinging to a 4-2 lead. He allowed a leadoff home run and a double before ceding the chance to Jim Johnson and not Keynan Middleton. Johnson gave up a single and a sac fly to complete the blown save. After the game, Mike Scioscia said that he felt that Anderson had enough to get through the ninth, and when that didn’t work, he liked the matchups with Johnson. Where was Keynan Middleton in all this? Presumably resting, as he threw 22 pitches in his return from the DL on Thursday. Scioscia also probably wanted to give Johnson a night off as well before being forced to use him. We still think Middleton will eventually get the ninth all to himself, but it’s clear Scioscia is monitoring his workload right now.
* = closer-by-committee
Los Angeles Angels — Keynan Middleton was activated from the disabled list and promptly pitched in the eighth inning for the Angels, picking up the hold ahead of Jim Johnson, who secured his first save as a Halo. Perhaps Middleton will be eased back in, but he did face the top of the Twins’ order, while Johnson retired the 4-5-6 hitters in the ninth. What does it all mean? No new details emerged after the game, but we still like Middleton to get more of the save chances moving forward. As many as five guys could still be in the mix on any given night.
* = closer-by-committee
Los Angeles Angels — Keynan Middleton pitched a scoreless inning Tuesday during a rehab outing in Triple-A. He is expected back later this week.
* = closer-by-committee
Los Angeles Angels — Saturday night didn’t do much to help clear up the Angels’ bullpen plans with closer Keynan Middleton on the DL. Cam Bedrosian, who got the first save chance after Middleton’s injury, came on in the sixth inning. It was a pretty big spot with the tying runs on second and third and one out, and Bedrosian did get the job done by stranding both runners. However, it was still a little early to bring a guy in if he is your closer. Justin Anderson had the worst outing of the relievers on the hierarchy, as he gave up a walk and two hits, including the go-ahead homer, while recording zero outs. Blake Parker relieved Anderson in the eighth and immediately gave up a double, followed by a wild pitch to allow another run to score. Parker ended up going 1.2 innings and was not charged with any runs (the run that scored on a wild pitch was Anderson’ responsibility), so it was relatively encouraging for him. And if things weren’t already crazy enough, the Angels took the lead in the top of the 10th and veteran Jim Johnson came on for the save in the bottom of the 10th. He promptly blew it. Maybe it’s best to just avoid the Angels’ bullpen until Middleton comes back.
* = closer-by-committee
Los Angeles Angels — Keynan Middleton was placed on the DL with elbow inflammation, retroactive to Sunday. Mike Scioscia did not seem too worried about it and expects Middleton to be available when his DL time is up. Cam Bedrosian got the first save chance in Middleton’s stead and promptly blew a 2-0 lead, though he had been pitching well leading up to Tuesday. Justin Anderson recorded the final two outs of the seventh while Jose Alvarez and Jim Johnson combined to complete the eighth inning. We’ll see if Scioscia goes back to Bedrosian for the next save chance or tries a different route.
* = closer-by-committee
Los Angeles Angels — Keynan Middleton was placed on the DL with elbow inflammation. No other information was released. In his stead, we bet Cam Bedrosian will lead the committee to start, but this is a fluid situation. One beat writer likes Justin Anderson as the next closer, while old friend Blake Parker could factor into the late-inning plans, too.
* = closer-by-committee
Los Angeles Angels — 25-year-old rookie Justin Anderson has been thrown right into tight spots since getting called up to the bigs earlier this week, and he’s risen to the occasion, earning three holds in three games against the Astros and Yankees. Anderson replaces Blake Parker in the LA hierarchy.
Los Angeles Angels — Keynan Middleton had pitched in three straight games, so Cam Bedrosian got the call on Tuesday and converted the save the Vulture Save Watch said he would get.
Los Angeles Angels — Another Angels’ save opportunity, and another Keynan Middleton save. Middleton is now 4 for 4 in save chances this year, and that’s enough for us to drop the committee asterisk.Hierarchy remains: Middleton | Bedrosian | Parker.April 14, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — After a day of rest, Keynan Middleton was right back in the ninth inning, picking up his second straight save. Middleton definitely is the favorite in LA right now, but with Mike Scioscia pulling the strings, we are reluctant to kick this asterisk just yet.Hierarchy remains: *Middleton | Bedrosian | Parker.
* = closer-by-committeeApril 12, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — Another save for Keynan Middleton, this one of the five-out variety. Middleton entered up four and got two more runs in the top of the ninth, but still managed to make things exciting with a walk, two singles, and a hit batsman. After 37 pitches, we don’t expect him to get a save chance tomorrow, but he’s consolidating his position at the top of the Angels committee.
Hierarchy remains: *Middleton | Bedrosian | Parker.
* = closer-by-committee
April 10, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – With the major caveat that this is Mike Scioscia, recent usage suggests something we’ve alluded to in our last two Angels updates: that Keynan Middleton looks like the guy to own in the Angels bullpen right now. The latest example comes from last night’s game, which played out like this: The Angels were up four runs in the 7th, and they went to Jim Johnson. He gave up a run and Blake Parker started getting loose for the 8th. The Angels tacked on three runs in the top half, turning it into a 6-run game and making it a lower-leverage spot for Parker (who would probably benefit from a few more such outings). Parker pitched a clean 8th and then gave way to Cam Bedrosian in the 9th with the lead still at 6; Bedrosian proceeded to give up a run before closing things out. Inconspicuous in his absence was Middleton, who was never asked to get loose once the game got out of hand. As such, we’re cautiously moving him to the top of the hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: *Middleton | Bedrosian | Parker.
* = closer-by-committee
April 8, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — Blake Parker pitched yesterday with the Angels losing and gave up two runs. It’s still very early, but Parker’s ERA is over 7.00 and Mike Scioscia is not shy about trying different guys in the ninth inning. We would not be surprised if Keynan Middleton got the next save chance, but we also wouldn’t be surprised if he still gave Parker a shot (and because it’s Scioscia, I guess we shouldn’t be surprised by whatever happens). Jim Johnson is another guy who could get a shot as he has pitched well to start the season, while Cam Bedrosian has probably worked himself out of the conversation with an ERA north of 7.00 to start the season.
Updated hierarchy: *Parker | Middleton | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
April 7, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — After an appearance in the ninth with a four-run lead, speculators are racing to grab Keynan Middleton, hoping Mike Scioscia abandons his committee inclinations and gives the young righty a chance to make the closer job his own. Suuuure, it’s possible Scioscia’s a changed man, wants to settle down — that this time is different — but we’re going to make him prove it first. If you want to take the ride, be our guest. We’ll be here for you when Mike breaks your heart.
Updated hierarchy: *Parker | Middleton | Bedrosian.
* = closer-by-committee
April 2, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Keynan Middleton remains behind Blake Parker and Cam Bedrosian — and possibly Jim Johnson, too — in the Angels hierarchy, but last night, he still managed to get his first save of the season. Bedrosian had already pitched earlier in the night, while Johnson had thrown 29 pitches the night before, so when Parker got into trouble in the 9th inning, it was Middleton who was summoned to bail him out. The quick hook on Parker suggests that he’s still got a ways to go to earn Mike Scioscia’s trust this season, and this bullpen continues to be worth a discerning eye as April progresses.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Bedrosian | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee
March 31, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — Blake Parker picked up a save last night despite giving up a run in the ninth on a walk and two singles. Keynan Middleton pitched a clean eighth ahead of Parker. It’s the second scoreless outing for Middleton, while Cam Bedrosian had a bit of a disaster on his first work on Thursday. Blake Wood has also started the year off with two clean holds and may get more chances going forward. Expect this to be one of the most volatile bullpens all year.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Bedrosian | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee
March 22, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — We’re still roughly in the same place with LA: Blake Parker continues to have a rough spring, leading to (unsourced) speculation about Cam Bedrosian taking the closer job. The only difference is that now Bedrosian is giving up runs too — three in his last two outings. No changes yet.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Bedrosian | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee
March 12, 2018
Los Angeles Angels – Blake Parker got off to a rocky start this spring, but has settled down over his last few outings and, we believe, is still in the lead here. Cam Bedrosian has looked sharp this spring (3 IP, 0 ER, 4 K), but if Mike Scioscia sticks to his script from last year, then Bedrosian will be his pre-9th-inning relief ace, while Parker will get the saves.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Bedrosian | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee
February 26, 2018
Los Angeles Angels — Blake Parker ended 2017 as the top closing option in Anaheim, and we think Parker starts with the edge in what will probably be a continuing committee. Familiar friends Cam Bedrosian and Keynan Middleton are also in the mix, along with recent acquisition Jim Johnson. The Johnson trade gave the Angels $1.2 million of the international bonus pool money they used to sign Shohei Ohtani, raising the possibility that Johnson’s biggest contribution to the team is already behind him.
Starting 2018 hierarchy: *Parker | Bedrosian | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee
Holds candidates: Bedrosian, Blake Wood, Jose Alvarez.
September 17, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Blake Parker picked up a six out save on Friday so on Saturday night, it was Yusmeiro Petit’s turn. Petit pitched a perfect ninth inning for his fourth save of the season. Meanwhile, Cam Bedrosian hasn’t recorded a save in a month, and seems to have fallen behind Parker and Petit for saves. Petit has certainly earned the save chances, as he has given up zero runs and only two hits over ten innings so far in September.
Updated hierarchy: *Parker | Petit | Bedrosian.
* = closer-by-committee
September 11, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Sporting a three-run lead, the Angels went Bedrosian-Parker-Petit to get through the final three innings. So the committee is back — maybe it never really left — though we still think Parker is the best bet at this point to get a save on any given night.
Updated hierarchy: *Parker | Bedrosian | Petit.
* = closer-by-committee
September 7, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — As we told you yesterday, former closer Bud Norris was activated from the disabled list on Wednesday. We’ll slot him in at second in line, but with his knee soreness not yet healed, the team isn’t likely to push him too hard.
Updated hierarchy: Parker | Bedrosian | Norris.
September 6, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels used eight pitchers on Tuesday, but Blake Parker was not one of them, seemingly getting a night off after what has been a heavy workload of late. Cam Bedrosian had pitched the ninth and Yusmeiro Petit also threw a lot of pitches on Monday, so Eduardo Paredes got the ball in the 10th after the Angels grabbed a one-run lead. Paredes eventually earned his first career save. With Bud Norris due to be activated from the DL on Wednesday, this bullpen has become even more crowded. We still think Parker is the go-to guy for saves as the Angels fight for the final Wild Card spot, but Mike Scioscia may use any of the nearly 20 pitchers at his disposal to get them over the finish line.
Hierarchy remains: Parker | Bedrosian | Petit.
September 5, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – After a blown save from Blake Parker, the Angels game stretched into the 11th inning, where their 12th(!) pitcher of the game, Keynan Middleton, finally picked up the save. We don’t figure that this slip up will be enough to push Parker back into a committee, but with Mike Scioscia at the reins — and the Angels just 0.5 games out of a Wild Card spot — you never know.
Hierarchy remains: Parker | Bedrosian | Petit.
September 3, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Blake Parker pitched a perfect tenth inning last night for his fifth save of the season. Parker has now recorded a save in each of his last four appearances, and has not allowed a hit in his last seven appearances. We will drop the asterisk for the Angels’ as well since Parker has looked dominant in the closer’s role.
Updated hierarchy: Parker | Bedrosian | Petit.
August 31, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Another save for Blake Parker — this one coming after Cam Bedrosian had pitched the seventh with the team down three — means he’s the new committee leader. Meanwhile, Bud Norris went back to the disabled list on Tuesday with a recurrence of his knee inflammation. Yusmeiro Petit (1.88 ERA and 11.3 K/9 in August) and Keynan Middleton could get some looks as a result.
Updated hierarchy: *Parker | Bedrosian | Petit.
* = closer-by-committee
August 30, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels won, 7-2, on Tuesday night, and normally that wouldn’t elicit a report from us, barring a three-inning save. However, Cam Bedrosian was the only main reliever used in the victory, coming into the eighth inning with the Angels in the midst of a two-on, two-out jam. Bedrosian needed just five pitches to get the required out, and perhaps Mike Scioscia was just being extra cautious. What will be interesting is who gets Wednesday’s save chance. Bedrosian seemingly should be available for a rare second straight day given he threw just five pitches Tuesday, but if the Angels are keeping with their strict regimen for Bedrosian, expect Blake Parker to get the ball in the ninth inning.
Hierarchy remains: *Bedrosian | Parker | Norris.
* = closer-by-committee
August 29, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels are still on an every-other-day diet in regards to Cam Bedrosian, and the last two save opportunities (yesterday and Saturday) have come when their hard-throwing righty had been used the day before. Both times, Blake Parker converted the save, a decision that has been lauded by many Angels fans who have been clamoring for Parker to get the 9th inning for months now. We don’t anticipate that the Angels move away from a committee any time soon, but to us, the loose gameplan appears to be that Bedrosian gets the toughest assignment — 9th inning or otherwise — on nights when he is available, and when he’s not, that toughest assignment goes to Parker. Any of two or three additional Angels relievers (Keynan Middleton, Yusmeiro Petit, Bud Norris) could get a save on any given night, but Bedrosian and Parker remain the two most valuable.
Hierarchy remains: *Bedrosian | Parker | Norris.
* = closer-by-committee
August 27, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — After the Angels scored four runs in the bottom of the eighth, it was Blake Parker who got the call in the ninth inning. Parker pitched a perfect ninth inning for the save. Although it was his second save of the season, it was the first time that he had a traditional save by starting the ninth inning in a save situation. Parker has been arguably the Angels best reliever all season, yet he continued to get passed up on save chances until last night. Cam Bedrosian pitched on Friday, and has only pitched in back-to-back games once in August, so we won’t remove him from the top of the hierarchy, but we will slide Parker to first in line.
Updated hierarchy: *Bedrosian | Parker | Norris.
* = closer-by-committee
August 21, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Angels committee leader Cam Bedrosian was used strangely again on Sunday. He pitched a clean seventh inning in a tied game, retiring the 8-9-1 hitters. When the Angels took the lead later in the game, it was old friend Bud Norris who picked up the save. Norris is apparently in good graces again, having “shown improvement lately.” Sunday’s clean inning was his second straight after he gave up runs in his previous three outings. Make of Sunday’s bullpen use what you will, but for now we’ll slide Norris back into the hierarchy and hope this situation sorts itself out.
Updated hierarchy: *Bedrosian | Norris | Parker.
* = closer-by-committee
August 19, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Cam Bedrosian looked like he could leave the committee behind earlier this week, but last night he was brought out to protect a two-run lead…in the sixth inning…against the bottom of the Orioles order. He pitched a clean inning, as did Blake Parker in the seventh. Yusmeiro Petit took the eighth and started the ninth, but when he put two men on, Keynan Middleton came out to try to convert the save. He gave up a single and then a walkoff grand slam (the third the Angels have given up this month!) to take the loss. The bullpen was well-rested, so these were managerial decisions; Mike Scioscia said after the game that he was trying to play matchups, an interesting decision given that anyone who bats in the sixth is all but guaranteed a later at bat (barring a pinch hitter of course, don’t @ me please). Bedrosian is still the best option for this team, although he won’t be pitching back-to-back. If you must own one Angel reliever, make it Bedrosian, and hope that Scioscia remembers the lineup turns over every three innings.
Hierarchy remains: *Bedrosian | Parker | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee
August 17, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Three saves in a week would ordinarily be enough to erase an asterisk, but Cam Bedrosian isn’t fully recovered from his groin injury, and won’t be pitching in back-to-back games until that changes. Blake Parker and Keynan Middleton could see more than a usual share of chances as a result.
Hierarchy remains: *Bedrosian | Parker | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee
August 14, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — After seemingly falling out of the race with a 9-13 record in July, the Angels have been red hot all month (10-3) and currently hold the second AL Wild Card. But when it comes to closing out games, their relief corps will sorting things out on a night to night basis. Cam Bedrosian should continue to be Mike Scioscia’s choice when rested, but the Angels are being very cautious with his usage — stunningly, he has pitched on consecutive days only TWICE all season. So with Bedrosian getting the day off Sunday after pitching Saturday, it was Keynan Middleton who got the save, with Blake Parker and Yusmeiro Petit handling the 7th and 8th, respectively. Outside of Bedrosian, roles are pretty fluid in Anaheim.
Hierarchy remains: *Bedrosian | Parker | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee
August 13, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Cam Bedrosian converted his second straight save opportunity since Bud Norris was removed as closer. Keynan Middleton got the win, and Blake Parker struck out two in a scoreless eighth inning. Bedrosian could be on his way to asserting himself as the primary closer for the Angels, but we will see how things play out in the next couple days before we pull the committee.
Hierarchy remains: *Bedrosian | Parker | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee
August 12, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — The committee is in full effect for the Angels. Friday night, it was Keynan Middleton who faced the heart of the Mariner lineup in a tied eighth, and Yusmeiro Petit who closed the game. Petit has put up impressive numbers in a middle-inning role, but with Cam Bedrosian, Middleton, and Blake Parker fighting for opportunities, and Andrew Bailey about to make a DL return, it will be hard for him to elbow out a niche.
Hierarchy remains: *Bedrosian | Parker | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee
August 11, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Manager Mike Scioscia said it’s time to “take a step back” from Bud Norris, who after allowing three runs Thursday has now allowed 13 earned runs over his last 4.2 IP. He later walked it back a bit by saying he’d “take a half step back and exhale.” Soft landing, Mike. With Norris out, look for Cam Bedroisian, who got the save Thursday, to get the first crack, with Blake Parker and Keynan Middleton looming behind him.
Updated hierarchy: *Bedrosian | Parker | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee
August 11, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — For the first time as the team’s closer, Bud Norris came into the game with a slim lead in the eighth inning instead of the ninth. He promptly allowed two home runs to tie the game, giving him 13 earned runs in his last 4.2 IP. After Mike Trout knocked home three runs in the ninth, Cam Bedrosian came on to secure the save, ironically giving Norris the win. But he also took a loss: he’s no longer the team’s closer. Manager Mike Scioscia said after Thursday’s game that the team would take “a step back” from Norris, later walking it back to “a half step” taken by Norris. “We’ll see how we use him,” he added. We’d say Norris is definitely out as closer. As for who gets the first shot instead, Bedrosian appears to be the favorite, though Blake Parker and Keynan Middleton also may get chances. We suppose with Scioscia’s amended comment, Norris could even reemerge if he fixes whatever is going on.
Updated hierarchy: *Bedrosian | Parker | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee
August 9, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Keynan Middleton overcame a solo home run to pick up his first career save. Bud Norris hadn’t pitched since Sunday, but after Tuesday’s win Mike Scioscia said that he wanted to give Norris and Blake Parker a night off because they’ve pitched so much. Norris has struggled lately, but it looks as though his job is safe for now. Scioscia was quick to praise Middleton as well, saying that his stuff is “electric.” If the Angels do go back to a committee at some point, expect Middleton to be an important part of it.
Updated hierarchy: Norris | Parker | Middleton.
August 5, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Cam Bedrosian’s ERA has tripled over the past month, and Mike Scioscia has suggested that his mechanics are still off as a result of his groin strain earlier this year. Blake Parker hasn’t allowed a run since July 8.
Updated hierarchy: Norris | Parker | Bedrosian.
August 1, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – David Hernandez is now a Diamondback, meaning in the rare instances that the rebuilding Angels have a lead, they’ll probably look to Blake Parker more often.
Updated hierarchy: Norris | Bedrosian | Parker.
July 10, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Bud Norris picked up his second save since returning from the DL on Sunday, tossing a perfect inning. Mike Scioscia seems to have every intention of using him as his exclusive closer after a few weeks of uncertainty, so we’ll remove his asterisk as well. Also, Cam Bedrosian got the 8th inning yesterday, the second straight time he’s pitched just ahead of Norris. He moves up to the primary set-up role.
Updated hierarchy: Norris | Bedrosian | Hernandez.
July 6, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Miracle of miracles, the Angels actually had a low-drama save, courtesy of Bud Norris. One more and we jettison the asterisk. Meanwhile, Huston Street’s twingy groin will put him back on the disabled list until the season restarts on July 14.
Hierarchy remains: *Norris | Hernandez | Bedrosian.
* = closer-by-committee
July 1, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Bud Norris returns from the disabled list today to a closer situation that lacked any clarity in his absence. Given Norris’s success in the job this season, we expect him to take over immediately. He’ll keep the committee asterisk for a little while though. Behind him, anything can happen among (*deep breath*) David Hernandez, Cam Bedrosian, Huston Street, Blake Parker, Keynan Middleton, and Yusmeiro Petit.
Updated hierarchy: *Norris | Hernandez | Bedrosian.
* = closer-by-committee
June 29, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Cam Bedrosian looked great in his turn through the revolving door of Angels closers, right up until the point when he surrendered a tying home run on a 3-2 pitch with two outs. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Bud Norris has a rehab appearance scheduled on Thursday. Until his return, chaos.
Updated hierarchy: *Hernandez | Bedrosian | Street.
* = closer-by-committee
June 27, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Cam Bedrosian and Keynan Middleton bridged the gap to David Hernandez last night, though by the time the veteran came on for the 9th, the Angels had tacked on an insurance run to make it a 4-run game. Still, the way they lined this up is enough to move Hernandez up to the top of the league’s most unpredictable bullpen.
Updated hierarchy: *Hernandez | Street | Bedrosian.
* = closer-by-committee
June 26, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Cam Bedrosian, Blake Parker, Keynan Middleton, David Hernandez, and Huston Street spent Friday and Saturday sorting out who would be the best man for the 9th inning in a strong Angels bullpen that still has yet to establish any defined roles for its relievers. Then, on Sunday, in a clear save chance… Yusmeiro Petit got the final six outs. Mike Scioscia doesn’t appear to be in any hurry to figure things out, as the mix-and-match approach has been effective as of late. Any of the six relievers mentioned above could conceivably get the call at the moment; we’ll continue to monitor to see if anyone emerges.
Hierarchy remains: *Street | Hernandez | Bedrosian.
* = closer-by-committee
June 25, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — An Angels’ reliever recorded a save yesterday and of course that reliever was….Blake Parker. Parker came on with the bases loaded and two outs in the ninth inning and struck out the only batter he faced to pick up his first save of the season. Cam Bedrosian started the ninth inning with the Angels up five so it was not a save opportunity. He allowed two hits, two walks, and two runs before getting pulled in favor of Parker. David Hernandez pitched a perfect seventh with two strikeouts. This game did not help offer any clarity to who will get the next save chance so we will continue to monitor this closely.
Hierarchy remains: *Street | Hernandez | Bedrosian.
* = closer-by-committee
June 24, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Huston Street made his return from injury in a low-leverage spot, pitching a scoreless seventh down three. This was likely a scheduled appearance to ease him back into things. Street stays atop the committee for now, but the next few save chances could provide a lot of clarity on how Mike Scioscia will deploy his suddenly healthy bullpen. In other news, Bud Norris’s rehab is progressing well, and he could return after the minimum 10-day stay on the DL.
Hierarchy remains: *Street | Hernandez | Bedrosian.
* = closer-by-committee
June 22, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Huston Street returns from the disabled list today and we think he’ll be given the chance to reclaim the closer role.
Updated hierarchy: *Street | Hernandez | Bedrosian.
* = closer-by-committee
June 21, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Some confusing bullpen usage for the Angels last night, who used Blake Parker in the 6th and Cam Bedrosian — our pick to close after Bud Norris went on the DL — in the 7th before putting the game out of reach. It looked like they were lining up to use David Hernandez as their closer, and the veteran still pitched the 9th even though it wasn’t a save opportunity. (Most confusing of all was the use of Keynan Middleton, who got the 8th. Middleton had given up 4 runs in his last three appearances and was summoned in the 4th inning last time he pitched.) Maybe Mike Scioscia wanted to give Bedrosian another tune-up before moving him back to the 9th. Or maybe he’s going to use Bedrosian all over, like the above article suggests — that would allow him to deploy Huston Street, who has previously claimed he’d rather retire than be used in different innings, exclusively in the 9th. If it’s the latter, then Hernandez is worth an add for the time being, since we’re not entirely convinced Street still has what it takes to get the job done there.
Updated hierarchy: *Hernandez | Bedrosian | Parker.
* = closer-by-committee
June 20, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Now it’s Bud Norris who’s going on the disabled list for the Angels, who can’t seem to keep anyone healthy in their bullpen. Cam Bedrosian should get any save chance today, but with Huston Street coming off a positive rehab outing and expected to return this week (though not today: that move will be Mike Morin), Mike Scioscia will have a decision to make. How they look this week could have a huge impact on who keeps this job the rest of the year.
Updated hierarchy: Bedrosian | Hernandez | Parker.
June 17, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Cam Bedrosian comes back from the DL today; although he’ll work in the late innings, he’s not likely to go back to the closer’s role immediately. Bud Norris has been solid while Bedrosian and Huston Street have missed time. Any opportunity for Bedrosian would be short-lived anyway, as Street is on track to return as early as Tuesday. Our read is that Street will assume the closer’s role when he is ready, but will have a short leash as long as Bedrosian and Norris pitch well. In shallow leagues, this might be your last chance to grab either of the two DL activations.
Updated hierarchy: Norris | Bedrosian | Hernandez.
June 16, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Former closer Cam Bedrosian appears ready to rejoin the big club this weekend, but we’ll wait to see how he fits in given that Bud Norris has pitched pretty well in his absence.
Hierarchy remains: Norris | Hernandez | Parker.
June 15, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — As we predicted Wednesday morning, David Hernandez picked up the save while Bud Norris got the night off. And all of this happened because Joe Girardi is currently insisting on using rookies instead of effective pitchers.
Hierarchy remains: Norris | Hernandez | Parker.
June 8, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Now it’s Cam Bedrosian’s rehab that’s delayed, after the righty reported still more discomfort in his groin. Bud Norris’s role is safe for at least another week.
Hierarchy remains: Norris | Hernandez | Parker.
June 3, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Huston Street’s rehab is on hold after he experienced tightness in his triceps. The more time Street misses, the harder it might be for him to reclaim the closer role from surprising Bud Norris. Meanwhile, Cam Bedrosian pitched a rehab inning for the Inland Empire 66ers, striking out one and giving up two runs. But we’re burying the lede: easily the most interesting thing to happen in the world of bullpens last night was Blake Parker’s decisive victory (six pounds to four!) in the Angels’ annual cow-milking contest.
Hierarchy remains: Norris | Hernandez | Parker.
May 28, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Bud Norris was able to pitch on Saturday, just a day after leaving the game with a knee injury. The knee appears to be fine for Norris so he should continue to see saves for now. Huston Street threw another perfect inning at Triple -A, and looks to be on track to return from the DL around the time he becomes eligible on June 1st.
Hierarchy remains: Norris | Hernandez | Parker.
May 27, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Bud Norris hadn’t pitched since Monday, so Mike Scioscia called on him in the eighth inning of a game the Angels trailed by five. And, naturally, because these are the Angels, he left the game with a right knee injury. The good news for LA is twofold: Norris is supposedly day-to-day, and both Huston Street and Cam Bedrosian are almost ready to return from the disabled list. Street should be back first (eligible Thursday), but if both he and Bedrosian are healthy come mid-June, we’d give the edge to Cam. If Norris does miss any time before June, we expect David Hernandez and Blake Parker to split save chances. Hernandez has been lights-out with the exception of one bad outing on May 16, while Parker strikes out more than 1.5 batters per inning.
Hierarchy remains: Norris | Hernandez | Parker.
May 26, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — Former closer Huston Street pitched a perfect inning in Triple-A this week and may be back with the big club as soon as next week.
Hierarchy remains: Norris | Hernandez | Parker.
May 13, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — It’s been David Hernandez and his sub-1 ERA with the eighth inning on lockdown lately for LA. Things have gone pretty smoothly for the Angels given the number of relief arms they have missing. Cam Bedrosian hasn’t been able to throw off a mound yet, but may get there next week. Huston Street is still on track for a June 1 return, while Andrew Bailey has hit a snag.
Updated hierarchy: Norris | Hernandez | Parker.
April 29, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — The Vulture Save Watch correctly predicted that Bud Norris would get a break, but with a three-run lead in the ninth, the Angels decided to use Jose Alvarez against a lefty-heavy lineup. Alvarez is not a typical LOOGY, but he’s the only lefty in the bullpen, so he picks up some matchups. David Hernandez pitched a perfect eighth inning, while Blake Parker was waiting to put out any fires that may have arisen in the ninth. We think it’s still Parker, then Hernandez, behind Norris.
Hierarchy remains: Norris | Parker | Hernandez.
April 28, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels have used a hodgepodge of relievers to bridge the gap in save situations over the last week, including David Hernandez, Yusmeiro Petit, Deolis Guerra, Blake Parker and Jose Alvarez. But one thing has been most consistent: Bud Norris (four saves) has picked up each save chance and converted each time the Angels had a slim lead in the ninth lately, including on Thursday. With Cam Bedrosian nursing a sore groin and Huston Street out until at least June 1, Norris is the clear man to own for the Angels.
Hierarchy remains: Norris | Parker | Hernandez.
April 25, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels traded for veteran reliever David Hernandez and immediately used him in a big spot. With the Angels clinging to a one run lead in the eight inning, Hernandez came on with a runner on first and one out. He retired the only two batters he faced to preserve the lead. Bud Norris pitched the ninth to record his second save.
Updated hierarchy: *Norris | Parker | Hernandez.
* = closer-by-committee
April 24, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels took a 1-0 lead to the 8th inning, but Deolis Guerra gave up a go-ahead home run and Brooks Pounders allowed considerably more damage, as the Blue Jays rallied to win 6-2. Blake Parker remains our favorite arm in this bullpen, but he was used rather curiously in this game, striking out the side in the 6th inning. That gives him 15 Ks against only 2 BBs (and 0 HRs allowed) in 9.1 innings this year, but given his early usage, we’ll push Bud Norris to the top of the committee. Lefty Jose Alvarez, who got his second hold of the season on Sunday with a clean 7th, slots in behind them for now.
Updated hierarchy: *Norris | Parker | Alvarez.
* = closer-by-committee
April 23, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Cam Bedrosian was placed on the DL yesterday afternoon, and Bud Norris got the first save chance in his absence, converting the opportunity. At least one beat writer thinks this makes Norris the closer going forward, and his successful save makes that a strong possibility. Our choice would still be Blake Parker, though, who was unavailable after throwing 2 innings and 33 pitches on Friday night. We’ll see how things shake out.
Updated hierarchy: *Parker | Norris | Yates.
* = closer-by-committee
April 22, 2017
Los Angeles Angels — The nightmare continues for the Angels’ bullpen. Now it’s Cam Bedrosian hitting the DL with a right groin strain. Who will close with Bedrosian, Huston Street, and Andrew Bailey (and Mike Morin) all sidelined? Well, tonight, it might well be Bud Norris, but Blake Parker probably has the best shot going forward. We’ll put newly promoted Kirby Yates at the back of this hierarchy, but it could also be Deolis Guerra, or Yusmeiro Petit, or you, if you give Billy Eppler a call. Dude needs arms.
Updated hierarchy: *Parker | Norris | Yates.
* = closer-by-committee
April 19, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Bud Norris – yes, the Bud Norris that was the Astros’ opening-day starter in 2013 – has pitched well over his last four appearances, including a seventh-inning hold against his former club on Tuesday. During that four-game stretch (5.2 IP), Norris has struck out six and allowed just three hits. Expect him to keep getting high-leverage work ahead of Cam Bedrosian in a beleaguered Angels’ bullpen.
Hierarchy remains: Bedrosian | Parker | Norris.
April 18, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Huston Street was moved to the 60-day DL yesterday, meaning he won’t be back until June. Did you draft Huston Street this year? That was silly. You should not have drafted Huston Street this year.
Hierarchy remains: Bedrosian | Parker | Petit.
April 14, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Angels reliever JC Ramirez is making a spot start Friday, so for now that takes him out of the late-innings conversation for LAofA. The Angels’ bullpen situation is pretty rough right now, but we think Yusmeiro Petit (1.50 ERA, 7 Ks in 6 IP) may see more high-leverage work in the near future.
Updated hierarchy: Bedrosian | Parker | Petit.
April 13, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Shoulder inflammation has sent Andrew Bailey to the DL, where he joins Huston Street. The Angels don’t have much behind Cam Bedrosian at this point, and we don’t see Blake Parker or J.C. Ramirez challenging Bedrosian for saves in Street’s absence. Parker pitched the sixth with the team down on Wednesday. No word yet on when Street might return so, for now, it’s all Cam.
Updated hierarchy: Bedrosian | Parker | Ramirez.
April 9, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Cam Bedrosian struck out four batters in 1.2 innings to pick up his second save of the season. Although manager Mike Scioscia will not follow strict bullpen roles, Bedrosian is clearly the best pitcher in the Angels’ bullpen right now and should see the majority of save chances.
Hierarchy remains: *Bedrosian | Bailey | Parker.
* = closer-by-committee
April 4, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Despite his excellent spring training, Cam Bedrosian will share closing duties while Huston Street is out. Mike Scioscia shied away from calling the arrangement a “committee,” saying instead that he wants to retain the flexibility to use his ‘closer’ earlier in the game if matchups require. Wise though this might be, the downside to fantasy owners requires us to brand this ‘pen with the committee asterisk.
Updated hierarchy: *Bedrosian | Bailey | Parker.
* = closer-by-committee
April 3, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Blake Parker was a non-roster invitee to camp and made the roster anyway after a terrific spring in which he posted a 0.73 ERA with 24 strikeouts in 12.1 innings. It may be worth taking a flier on him as someone who could get some work in the late innings to start the season. Meanwhile, Huston Street will resume some light throwing on Tuesday.
Updated hierarchy: Bedrosian | Bailey | Parker.
March 6, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – Huston Street’s latest injury, a lat strain, opens the door for Cam Bedrosian to start the season as LA’s closer — as long as Bedrosian can overcome his own minor groin injury. Andrew Bailey would be the next guy up for the Angels after Bedrosian.
Updated hierarchy: Bedrosian | Bailey | Morin.
February 27, 2017
Los Angeles Angels – It seems like Huston Street has been around forever, but the longtime closer is still only 33. Still, despite his history, Street is not guaranteed the closer’s job out of camp, especially after registering a 6.45 ERA during an injury-plagued 2016. Injuries are still on the table for 2017, as the righty will look to bounce back from a knee injury. Youngster Cam Bedrosian and former A’s closer Andrew Bailey could also get cracks at the full-time gig.
Starting 2017 hierarchy: Street | Bedrosian | Bailey.
Holds candidates: Bedrosian, Bailey.
September 29, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — Just when we thought it was safe to remove Andrew Bailey’s committee asterisk, the Angels turned to J.C. Ramirez in the ninth inning. The asterisk stays, but the next chance should still go to Bailey.
Hierarchy remains: *Bailey | Ramirez | Guerra.
* = closer-by-committee
September 6, 2016
Los Angeles Angels – Andrew Bailey recorded his second save of the season last night, pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning. The Angels’ bullpen was stretched early in the game, with starter Jered Weaver only lasting 4 innings. While we expect Mike Scioscia to mix and match going forward, we are comfortable moving Bailey to the top of the committee. Add him if you need saves.
Updated hierarchy: *Bailey | Ramirez | Guerra.
* = closer-by-committee
September 5, 2016
Los Angeles Angels – After Matt Shoemaker took a line drive to the head in the second inning on Sunday, the first Angel out of the bullpen was Deolis Guerra, who is ostensibly competing for the closer job with J.C. Ramirez. Though this seemingly would have solidified Ramirez as the Angels’ new closer, he was actually summoned in the 7th inning, and he subsequently bridged the last two innings to newcomer Andrew Bailey, who they signed to a minor league deal in August. Bailey responded by converting his first save since 2013, which immediately puts him in the conversation with Ramirez for future opportunities. In other Angels news, Cam Bedrosian is officially done for the year.
Updated hierarchy: *Ramirez | Bailey | Guerra.
* = closer-by-committee
August 31, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — With the waiver deadline deal of Fernando Salas to the Mets, we expect a combination of J.C. Ramirez and Deolis Guerra (traded from the Mets eight years ago for Johan Santana) to handle the L.A. closing duties going forward. Whichever guy gets the job full-time will be the Angels’ fifth closer of the season.
Updated hierarchy: *Ramirez | Guerra | Morin.
* = closer-by-committee
August 26, 2016
Los Angeles Angels – Injured closer Cam Bedrosian — originally on the shelf with middle finger tendinitis — was diagnosed with a blood clot in his right arm, putting his season in jeopardy. Further examination by a vascular specialist is scheduled to determine the severity of the issue.
Hierarchy remains: Salas | Ramirez | Guerra.
August 22, 2016
Los Angeles Angels – Over the past few weeks, the Los Angeles Angels have been an insult to “shambles” everywhere, and save chances have been scant. But when they occur, they’ve belonged to Fernando Salas. He picked up his fourth save last night, and we’ll remove the asterisk until someone else gets one. In other Angels news, Huston Street is out for the year.
Hierarchy remains: Salas | Ramirez | Guerra.
August 17, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — After losing 11 games in a row, the Angels finally picked up a win. That meant that Fernando Salas finally picked up a save, his third of the season. Meanwhile, there is no timetable for the return of either Cam Bedrosian or Huston Street.
Hierarchy remains: *Salas | Ramirez | Guerra.
* = closer-by-committee
August 13, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — J.C. Ramirez didn’t improve his position in the pecking order by giving up three runs in the eighth inning of a Friday night blowout. Fernando Salas should hold the job until Huston Street returns.
Hierarchy remains: *Salas | Ramirez | Guerra.
* = closer-by-committee
August 10, 2016
Los Angeles Angels – Cam Bedrosian was placed on the disabled list Tuesday with middle finger tendinitis. With Joe Smith shipped off to the Cubs and Huston Street still hurting, we think Fernando Salas is the best bet for saves for the time being. JC Ramirez could also factor in to the mix, though a 5-1 loss on Tuesday night did little to clarify who may pitch where.
Updated hierarchy: *Salas | Ramirez | Guerra.
* = closer-by-committee
August 9, 2016
Los Angeles Angels – Cam Bedrosian was placed on the disabled list this afternoon with middle finger tendinitis. With Joe Smith shipped off to the Cubs and Huston Street still hurting, we think Fernando Salas is the best bet for saves for the time being. JC Ramirez could also factor in to the mix.
Updated hierarchy: *Salas | Ramirez | Guerra.
* = closer-by-committee
August 3, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — Before Tuesday night’s game, Mike Scioscia clarified that Fernando Salas and J.C. Ramirez would serve alongside Cam Bedrosian in the Angels’ new closer committee. Ramirez got the eighth with a three-run lead, but he struggled, giving up two runs. Bedrosian, though, looked right at home in the ninth, striking out the side to pull within 183 saves of his old man. We expect him to shed the committee tag by the end of the week. Meanwhile, Huston Street’s MRI showed inflammation, but no structural damage.
Updated hierarchy: *Bedrosian | Salas | Ramirez.
* = closer-by-committee
August 2, 2016
Los Angeles Angels – Huston Street is headed to the disabled list with an inflamed right knee. This might be one of those face-saving DL stints, since Street was on the verge of losing his job anyway — or maybe the knee explains why he was having such a poor season. The Angels have said they’re going to go to a committee, but we expect Cam Bedrosian to get the first chance, and he could run away with the job if he converts.
Updated hierarchy: *Bedrosian | Salas | Guerra.
* = closer-by-committee
August 1, 2016
Los Angeles Angels – Huston Street continues to be terrible, and continues to have the support of his manager. But if Cam Bedrosian gets his hands on this job at some point, we don’t think he’ll ever give it back. Also, for those in holds leagues, Joe Smith is likely to be dealt to a contender today.
Hierarchy remains: Street | Bedrosian | Smith.
July 31, 2016
Los Angeles Angels – Joe Smith, who has been the subject of trade rumors, pitched 1.1 scoreless innings ahead of Bedrosian and Street on Saturday. Smith hasn’t allowed a run since the All-Star break and should continue to be used in the later innings if he stays in LA.
Updated hierarchy: Street | Bedrosian | Smith.
July 26, 2016
Los Angeles Angels – Despite possessing a double-take inducing 0.97 ERA, Cam Bedrosian is stuck behind veteran closer Huston Street in the Angels’ pecking order. The 22 year-old fireballer might get his shot a closing soon, however. There have been reports that the Giants are interested in Street and his unimpressive 4.79 ERA and a 1.84 WHIP. If Street gets dealt, Bedrosian may get his chance.
Hierarchy remains: Street | Bedrosian | Salas.
July 2, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — Joe Smith returned from his DL stint and pitched a scoreless sixth with the Angels down one. Mike Scioscia indicated that Smith will be eased back into action, and won’t see eighth-inning work immediately. Cam Bedrosian has been impressive in that role lately, and we think he’ll get the first crack at saves when Street is unavailable. We’ll trust Scioscia’s word on Smith for now, but he’s been a premier set-up man for the last seven years, so don’t be surprised if he quickly climbs the ladder again.
Updated hierarchy: Street | Bedrosian | Salas.
June 27, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — He was armed with an overpowering fastball and a good deal of hype, but Cam Bedrosian was still pretty green when he made his debut two years ago — which is understandable given that he was just 22 years old. Now, with two years of major league experience under his belt, Bedrosian has figured things out, and currently boasts a 1.33 ERA. He hasn’t allowed an earned run all month (12 appearances), and last night, he got the 8th inning in a close game. Look for him to get more late game action while Joe Smith is on the shelf.
Updated hierarchy: Street | Salas | Bedrosian.
June 8, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — Joe Smith was placed on the 15-day DL Tuesday thanks to a hamstring injury, which he tried to pitch through for three weeks. Smith hopes to be back in 12 days. Fernando Salas will slide up to Smith’s spot in the meantime, with but after that there’s no clear-cut contender for the seventh inning. Greg Mahle and Jose Alvarez are two lefties that have battled for that role, while Mike Morin, called up on Tuesday, pitched well earlier this season and was mentioned by manager Mike Scioscia as someone who will also be in the mix for the eighth. Despite mop-up duty on Tuesday, Morin gets our nod based on Scioscia’s postgame comments.
Updated hierarchy: Street | Salas | Morin.
June 1, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — Huston Street picked up where he left off, mowing down three straight batters in a tied ninth inning. Joe Smith surprisingly did not appear in the game, but he was tired, not hurt.
Hierarchy remains: Street | Smith | Salas.
May 31, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — Huston Street also returned from the DL yesterday, and while he wasn’t needed immediately (Jhoulys Chacin threw a complete game), he, too, should return to closing rather quickly, if not right away.
Updated hierarchy: Street | Smith | Salas.
May 22, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — Last night, Joe Smith blew his first save since Huston Street went on the DL, as he gave up a three-run homer to Matt Wieters on his birthday. Street threw a bullpen on Friday and is scheduled to throw a simulated inning on Monday. He is targeting a return in late May or early June.
Hierarchy remains: Smith | Salas | Mahle.
May 20, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — Greg Mahle is consistently getting late-inning work for the Angels, often (like on Thursday) coming in for fellow lefthander Jose Alvarez. We’ll swap the two at the end of the Los Angeles hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Smith | Salas | Mahle.
May 17, 2016
Los Angeles Angels – The Vulture Save Watch raised its batting average a few points when Fernando Salas picked up the save in place of a resting Joe Smith.
Hierarchy remains: Smith | Salas | Alvarez.
May 14, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — After Seattle blew the save, Fernando Salas came in for the ninth and picked up a save.
Hierarchy remains: Smith | Salas | Alvarez.
May 13, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — Injured closer Huston Street is getting closer to returning; he played catch for the third straight day on Thursday and hopes to have a bullpen session next week.
Hierarchy remains: Smith | Salas | Alvarez.
April 28, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — Closer Huston Street suffered a strained oblique and is expected to be placed on the DL. Joe Smith picked up the save last night, and should continue to see save chances while Street is out.
Updated hierarchy: Smith | Salas | Alvarez.
February 29, 2016
Los Angeles Angels — The consistent Huston Street returns as Angels closer after another 40-save season. The 32-year-old didn’t have his strongest season in 2015, as his ERA, WHIP, and BAA all rose above career averages, while his K/9 number dropped. Behind Street is Joe Smith, who will be entering his third year in LA and the final year of his contract. Also entering his third year with the team is Fernando Salas, who’s coming off an up-and-down campaign.
Starting 2016 hierarchy: Street | Smith | Salas.
Holds candidates: Smith, Salas, Mike Morin, Al Alburquerque.
October 1, 2015
Los Angeles Angels – Eleven days after spraining his ankle, Joe Smith was back on Wednesday to pitch the final out of the 9th inning. The Angels had already given up the lead, but seeing Smith back has to be encouraging for a team that lost their primary closer and setup man in the span of a week. Manager Mike Scioscia said that Smith will be used “somewhere in the back end” going forward. With the Angels only a half game back of the wild card, Smith could very well be the closer for the last four games of the season. While there has been no official announcement that he will close going forward, and he is not yet 100% healthy after rushing back from the ankle injury, he is by far the best option out of the Angels bullpen and he should be picked up immediately if you are chasing those last few saves of the season.
Updated hierarchy: *Smith | Gott | Morin.
* = closer-by-committee
September 28, 2015
Los Angeles Angels – Mike Morin picked up the first save in the Angels committee, pitching a clean ninth inning. Trevor Gott had pitched in four of the previous five and was held out of action, and we still think he’s probably the best bet for saves in the season’s final week. But Morin does leapfrog Fernando Salas, and one more save could put him firmly in the driver’s seat for the final few opportunities of the year.
Updated hierarchy: *Gott | Morin | Salas.
* = closer-by-committee
September 27, 2015
Los Angeles Angels — Huston Street left Saturday’s game with an apparent groin injury. The injury appeared to be serious, as Street needed to be helped off the field. With Joe Smith also injured, Trevor Gott pitched the eighth inning and could see saves if Street and Smith are both out with injury. Righties Fernando Salas and Mike Morin could also be in the mix, while lefty Jose Alvarez might be used if the match-ups dictate it.
Updated hierarchy: *Gott | Salas | Morin.
* = closer-by-committee
September 23, 2015
Los Angeles Angels — An MRI on Joe Smith’s ankle revealed just a sprain, and Smith hopes to pitch again this season as the Angels fight for a playoff spot. Trevor Gott and Huston Street combined to get four outs each and preserve the win on Tuesday. With Smith sidelined for the time being, Fernando Salas slides into the hierarchy behind Street and Gott.
Updated hierarchy: Street | Gott | Salas.
September 16, 2015
Los Angeles Angels — Huston Street was still fighting flu-like symptoms on Tuesday, so Joe Smith picked up the vulture save. Manager Mike Scioscia expects Street, who was ralphing in the bullpen on Sunday, to be back on Wednesday.
Hierarchy remains: Street | Smith | Gott.
August 20, 2015
Los Angeles Angels — With Huston Street unavailable after pitching in three straight, the Angels used slightly more rested Joe Smith for the save. This was Smith’s fourth straight appearance, but he had thrown significantly fewer pitches than Street over the past three days.
Hierarchy remains: Street | Smith | Gott.
July 18, 2015
Los Angeles Angels — After a Friday workout that included agility drills, a full warmup, and 14 pitches at game speed, Huston Street announced that he would be available to pitch on Saturday.
Hierarchy remains: Street | Smith | Gott.
July 9, 2015
Los Angeles Angels – Huston Street tweaked his groin Wednesday night on his second-to-last pitch of the evening, but doesn’t expect to need a DL stint. He may end up missing the upcoming four-game series with Seattle prior to the All-Star Break, but will be re-evaluated in Seattle. If Street does miss action this weekend, Joe Smith will take over as closer.
Hierarchy remains: Street | Smith | Gott.
June 30, 2015
Los Angeles Angels – Baby-faced phenom Trevor Gott has pitched in 8 games for the Angels so far this year and has yet to give up a run. The 22 year-old right-hander has earned a number of high-leverage assignments since his June 13 call-up from Triple-A Salt Lake City. Expect Mike Scioscia to give the kid a chance to earn more holds in the coming weeks.
Updated hierarchy: Street | Smith | Gott.
June 2, 2015
Los Angeles Angels – For a guy with a career 5.67 ERA over two seasons, there’s an awful lot of buzz around Cam Bedrosian. The 23-year-old son of former Cy Young Award winner Steve Bedrosian, the righty throws so hard that his intentional balls are about as fast as anything Mark Melancon is throwing these days. Bedrosian still hasn’t harnessed his control, and has an ugly WHIP despite a decent ERA thus far. But he got the 9th inning in a four-run game yesterday, and doubles as the most interesting arm in the Angels bullpen as well as the reliever who is most likely to get sent to the minors if the Angels need a roster spot. He’s one to watch going forward.
Updated hierarchy: Street | Smith | Bedrosian.
May 9, 2015
Los Angeles Angels — As we suspected, Huston Street and Joe Smith got the night off on Friday. Although the Angels let Jared Weaver finish a 120-pitch shutout, it was Fernando Salas (not Mike Morin) warming in the bullpen for the possible vulture save.
Updated hierarchy: Street | Smith | Salas.
May 8, 2015
Los Angeles Angels — Given a 2-0 lead in the ninth inning Thursday night, Angels closer Huston Street coughed it all up, surrendering three runs to take the loss against his namesake. Street allowed four singles and a walk, but the winning run came only when the speedy Jose Altuve beat out a double play that would have ended the inning.
Hierarchy remains: Street | Smith | Morin.
March 6, 2015
Los Angeles Angels — Huston Street (acquired last July from San Diego) and Joe Smith have the last two innings locked down. After the departure of Kevin Jepsen to Tampa, the Angels have their eye on Mike Morin as their next seventh-inning man. 23-year-old Cam Bedrosian could have an increased role later this year as well, and if Hector Santiago doesn’t make the rotation, he might find a spot as a lefty reliever.
Starting 2015 hierarchy: Street | Smith | Morin.
Holds candidates: Smith, Fernando Salas.
September 24, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — Joe Smith struggled on Tuesday night, but managed to tally his MLB-leading 66th scoreless appearance.
Hierarchy remains: Street | Smith | Jepsen.
September 6, 2014
Los Angeles Angels – Kevin Jepsen got the save in extra innings last night. Huston Street and Joe Smith had already pitched so Jepsen was left to finish the game. Jepsen lowered his ERA to under 2.00 for the season but still remains behind Street and Smith for save chances.
Hierarchy remains: Street | Smith | Jepsen.
August 22, 2014
Los Angeles Angels – We know that we can be a little gratuitous about patting ourselves on the back when the Vulture Save Watch gets one right. But our arms are downright sore from all the self-congratulations after we picked not-even-on-the-hierarchy Jason Grilli as a vulture save candidate yesterday. Huston Street, Joe Smith, and Kevin Jepsen all got Thursday off, and Grilli converted for his first save as an Angel.
Hierarchy remains: Street | Smith | Jepsen.
August 19, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — As predicted in Monday’s Vulture Save Watch, Kevin Jepsen picked up his first save of the season as both Huston Street and Joe Smith got a night off. Jason Grilli needed just nine pitches to secure an eighth-inning hold.
Hierarchy remains: Street | Smith | Jepsen.
July 18, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — The Angels acquired former Padre closer Huston Street late Friday night, and he is expected to immediately bump Joe Smith back to a setup role.
Updated hierarchy: Street | Smith | Jepsen.
July 15, 2014
Los Angeles Angels – Mike Scioscia has recently said that as long as Joe Smith does the job, he’ll continue to be the club’s closer. Jason Grilli remains the handcuff, but rumors have linked the Halos to Joakim Soria. If that rumor holds true, then Smith could be out after all. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: None
July 14, 2014
Los Angeles Angels – At one point, Mike Scioscia went out of his way to explain that he really wanted Joe Smith back in a middle relief role, where he could use him to get tough outs in the 7th and 8th innings. Well, those days are gone — Smith is locked into the closer role until further notice. Speaking of locked in, Kevin Jepsen has allowed just one run since May 4, a span of 31(!) appearances, with his last four outings coming the 8th ahead of Smith. If Smith should falter, Scioscia could still look to veteran Jason Grilli, but our money is now on Jepsen.
Updated hierarchy: Smith | Jepsen | Grilli.
July 4, 2014
Los Angeles Angels – Joe Smith has been awesome lately, picking up five saves in his last nine appearances while posting this line: 8.1 IP, 1 ER, 11 Ks, 1 BB. But he remains on our Hot Seat because Mike Scioscia has said repeatedly that he wants Smith in a more flexible role, where he can be used strategically to get big outs in the 7th and 8th innings. So the fact that Jason Grilli has now pitched 3.1 innings for the Angels without allowing an earned run (including three 8th-inning appearances ahead of Smith) is especially relevant, given the fact that Scioscia has implied that he’d like to see Grilli compete for 9th inning opportunities. If Grilli is on your waiver wire, now might be the time to pounce. One slip-up from Smith and the aging righty could start getting saves again.
Hierarchy remains: Smith | Grilli | Jepsen.
July 2, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — Joe Smith earned two saves in one day — the first coming in a five-run game he entered with the bases loaded and nobody out — on a mere 13 pitches. No vulture save watch for this guy!
Hierarchy remains: Smith | Grilli | Jepsen.
June 28, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — The Angels have acquired former Pirates closer Jason Grilli. Grilli has struggled recently so it us unlikely that he will immediately take over as the closer for the Angels. However, the Angels would prefer to have more flexibility in when they bring in Joe Smith so if Grilli can string together a couple good outings with the Angels, he could become the closer.
Updated hierarchy: Smith | Grilli | Jepsen.
June 27, 2014
Los Angeles Angels – That Joe Smith is one shrewd sidearmer. After inheriting three of Ernesto Frieri’s baserunners with two out in a 5-run 9th inning last night, Smith cleverly allowed a double to the first hitter he faced, plating all three runs and raising Frieri’s ERA to 6.39. Then he looked into the dugout and he laughed and he laughed (probably), before striking out Kendrys Morales to pick up the save. With Frieri’s continued implosion, Smith’s hold on the closer role is strengthening, with his main competition now coming from Kevin Jepsen and youngster Mike Morin, the latter of whom has a 1.37 ERA in 25 appearances.
Hierarchy remains: Smith | Jepsen | Frieri.
June 26, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — Although the Angels scored an insurance run in the bottom of the eighth, Joe Smith had been warming in preparation for a second straight save. That news pales in comparison to the true accomplishment in Anaheim on Wednesday night.
Hierarchy remains: Smith | Jepsen | Frieri.
June 25, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — In the aftermath of Tuesday night’s game, Mike Scioscia reversed course and announced that Joe Smith will be his primary closer going forward. He did add that Ernesto Frieri would still get some high-leverage innings.
Updated hierarchy: Smith | Jepsen | Frieri.
June 25, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — Mike Scioscia is serious about this committee thing; the last three LA save chances have gone to Cam Bedrosian, Kevin Jepsen, and now Joe Smith. Putative closer Ernesto Frieri worked a clean eighth. We’re keeping things as they have been until we hear something more solid from the Angels brass.
Hierarchy remains: Frieri | Smith | Jepsen.
June 22, 2014
Los Angeles Angels – Kevin Jepsen got the call in the 9th inning last night to protect a one-run lead, and he promptly gave up the game-tying home run to the first batter he faced. Mike Scioscia had good things to say about Jepsen the other day after Frieri blew the save. However, it is hard to say whether or not Jepsen will get another shot after he couldn’t get the job done last night. Frieri still seems to be the best bet for saves long-term for the Angels but Smith or Jepsen could see also see some save opportunities mixed in there.
Hierarchy remains: Frieri | Smith | Jepsen.
June 20, 2014
Los Angeles Angels – A baffling 10th inning in Cleveland saw the Angels take a 2-run lead and then summon youngster Cam Bedrosian while Ernesto Frieri stood idle in the bullpen. Bedrosian struggled and allowed three base runners (jeez, who would’ve expected a guy with a 10.13 ERA to struggle?!?!), before Mike Scioscia finally went to his closer, but Frieri would only be able to retire David Murphy before allowing a walk off grand slam to Nick Swisher. We’ve said previously that Scioscia’s recent decision to limit Frieri’s save chances seemed unnecessarily harsh, and Thursday’s usage just seemed cruel — like he wanted the righty to fail. But either way, after the game, Frieri was pissed and Scioscia offered no real explanation for using Bedrosian (whose ERA is now 14.29, by the way). Frieri is still probably the best Angel reliever to own, but with the way he’s been treated, we wouldn’t be surprised if Joe Smith got the next save chance.
Hierarchy remains: Frieri | Smith | Jepsen.
June 16, 2014
Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri had a disastrous outing on Saturday, allowing five hits and four runs without recording an out, and on Sunday, Mike Scioscia said that the Angels would remain the same, with Frieri closing on some nights, and Joe Smith closing on other nights. This struck us as a bit puzzling, as Frieri has been entrenched as the closer after a strong May while Smith had only gotten one save opp in the past month. If it’s true that the Angels are going back to a committee, it also seems a bit of an overreaction to one bad outing, as Frieri had converted his previous 9 save chances. But time will tell whether this was just bluster, or whether Smith truly is going to start getting 9th inning chances again.
Ernesto Frieri to Hot Seat.
June 4, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — Michael Kohn was sent to the minor leagues on Tuesday after battling some control problems recently. Promoted to replace him was former first-round pick Cam Bedrosian, who boasts 45 strikeouts in 24 low-minor innings, and could ascend quickly. For now, Kohn’s spot in the hierarchy should be filled by Fernando Salas or, better yet, impressive 23-year-old rookie Mike Morin — but this being Mike Scioscia’s team, our money is on the pedestrian Kevin Jepsen, who pitched after both of those guys on Tuesday. In his defense, Jepsen hasn’t allowed a run in his last 10 outings, and has shown an improved strikeout rate.
Updated hierarchy: Frieri | Smith | Jepsen.
May 15, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — This time it was Ernesto Frieri’s turn to set up Joe Smith for the save, and Mike Scioscia explained after the game that LA’s three-run lead freed him to use Frieri against the top of Philadelphia’s order. He clearly trusts Smith more, but he also wants Frieri to win the closer job permanently — and for that reason, Ernie keeps our top spot.
Hierarchy remains: Frieri | Smith | Kohn.
May 14, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — Although Joe Smith set up Ernesto Frieri for Tuesday night’s save, it was actually Smith who faced the tougher part of the Phillies lineup. Either man could see a save on a given night.
Hierarchy remains: Frieri | Smith | Kohn.
May 11, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — Joe Smith picked up the save yesterday, but he made it interesting. Smith came on with two men on and nobody out in the 9th inning, with the Angels up four runs. He gave up a couple run-scoring singles before finally getting Adam Lind to ground into a double play to end the inning. We think Frieri will get the bulk of the save chances, but Smith could still see some saves from time to time. No hierarchy change.
May 10, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — The Angels sent Ernesto Frieri to the mound to protect a 1-run lead last night, and he responded by striking out the side to convert his second straight save opportunity. Joe Smith was used in the 8th inning, and although the Angels are saying he could still see some saves based on match-ups, Frieri seems to have re-established himself as the the primary closer. No hierarchy change.
May 7, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — Ernesto Frieri enraged the insane Twitter user contingent of the Angel fan base by giving up his sixth home run in 14 1/3 innings to lose to the Yankees. Meanwhile, Joe Smith has been battling tightness in his right side. It’s hard out here for Mike Scioscia. No hierarchy change.
May 6, 2014
Los Angeles Angels – As predicted in our Vulture Save Watch, Mike Scioscia gave the ball to Ernesto Frieri in the ninth inning and the right-hander delivered, preserving a three-run lead for his first save since April 21. Scioscia intended to move Frieri back to the ninth all along, and Frieri has earned his job back thanks to now 4.2 innings without giving up a hit since a blown save on April 23. Hierarchy change: Ernesto Frieri to Closer, Joe Smith to Set-up.
April 30, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — For the second straight game, Fernando Salas pitched a high-leverage eighth inning in front of new closer Joe Smith. Michael Kohn had already been used in a tight spot in the sixth. No matter which of those two is higher in the pecking order, we think Ernesto Frieri — who pitched two perfect innings against the Yankees over the weekend — is more likely to pick up a save going forward. Hierarchy change: Ernesto Frieri to Set-Up, Michael Kohn to 2nd in line.
April 29, 2014
Los Angeles Angels – Joe Smith came on in the ninth inning with a three-run lead and allowed just one hit to pick up his first save of the season against his former team. No hierarchy change.
April 25, 2014
Los Angeles Angels – Prior to Friday night’s game, Mike Scioscia announced that Ernesto Frieri would get some time off from the closer role. Joe Smith will close in his absence, though Scioscia said that he expects Frieri to win the job back eventually. Hierarchy change: Joe Smith to Closer, Michael Kohn to Set-up, Ernesto Frieri to 2nd in line.
April 24, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — Ernesto Frieri is having a terrible April. 5 of the 42 batters he’s faced have hit home runs, and opponents are hitting .359/.405/.769 against him — basically the equivalent of a Babe Ruth who didn’t like to walk. After Wednesday’s four-run meltdown, Mike Scioscia gave Frieri a vote of confidence, but the next nightmare outing is bound to be his last. Joe Smith awaits. Ernesto Frieri to Hot Seat.
April 21, 2014
Los Angeles Angels – Kevin Jepsen has always been a favorite of Mike Scioscia, but Jepsen just isn’t getting it done so far this year, as he currently sports an ERA north of 7. Michael Kohn, meanwhile, has gotten an occasional 8th inning opportunity this year, and after logging another scoreless inning on Sunday, the righty’s ERA sits at 1.86. Hierarchy change: Michael Kohn to 2nd in line, replacing Kevin Jepsen.
March 13, 2014
Los Angeles Angels — After a disturbingly high ERA last year, Mike Scioscia intends to use Ernesto Frieri more sparingly this season. Ranked #12 in our preseason closer rankings.
March 7, 2014
Los Angeles Angels – Despite some rocky stretches last year, Ernesto Frieri enters 2014 as the unquestioned closer for the Angels. The first man behind him should be Joe Smith, who got a big offseason contract, while Kevin Jepsen and Dane de la Rosa figure to feature prominently in the 7th inning. Mike Scioscia has always liked Kevin Jepsen, who the Angels hope will return to form after an injury-plagued 2013. De la Rosa finished last year strong, but we’ll give a slight edge to Jepsen, who manager Mike Scioscia has always liked. Starting 2014 hierarchy: Closer – Ernesto Frieri, Set-up – Joe Smith, 2nd in line – Kevin Jepsen.
August 28, 2013
Los Angeles Angels — Mike Scioscia is not helping our trust issues. Every time we think we can relax and open up a little, the guy goes back on his word. Take last night, for instance! Just a few days after he said he could be ready to settle down and commit to Ernesto Frieri as closer again, he goes and sends Frieri out to pitch the eighth — in a game the Angels trailed! — because he “needed work.” And then OF COURSE Fernando Rodney blows the save, and out trots that Dane de la Rosa for the save again just like a few weeks ago, and Scioscia’s all like, “I told you this could happen. Don’t blame me.” We don’t, Mike. We blame ourselves. No hierarchy change.
August 26, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels’ struggling bullpen took another blow on Sunday, as Kevin Jepsen underwent appendix surgery and will likely miss the rest of the season. Michael Kohn, who picked up his 6th hold of the season on Saturday, should see more high-leverage innings in Jepsen’s absence. Hierarchy change: Michael Kohn to 2nd in line, replacing Kevin Jepsen.
August 25, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – Mike Scioscia said yesterday that Ernesto Frieri will go back to being the primary closer. Scioscia said that Dane de la Rosa may still get the occasional save but it looks like Frieri will be the guy moving forward. Hierarchy change: Ernesto Frieri to Closer, Dane de la Rosa to Set-up.
August 24, 2013
Los Angeles Angels — Ernesto Frieri struck out the side on Friday for his 27th save of the season. Mike Scioscia has not come out and anointed Frieri his closer again but with five straight scoreless outings, he should be very close to getting his job back as the full time closer. No hierarchy change.
August 21, 2013
Los Angeles Angels — True to his word, Mike Scioscia used Dane de la Rosa before Ernesto Frieri in a tied game on Tuesday. It will be interesting to see who gets the next save opportunity. No hierarchy change.
August 19, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – Manager Mike Scioscia said Sunday that both Dane de la Rosa and Ernesto Frieri will get save opportunities moving forward. De la Rosa has not allowed a run yet in August but if Frieri continues to pitch well he could take the job back full time. Hierarchy change: Ernesto Frieri to Set-up, Kevin Jepsen to 2nd in line. Dane de la Rosa to Hot Seat.
August 11, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – Dane de la Rosa would have gotten the call again last night if there was a save opportunity. Ernesto Frieri pitched with the Angels up 5 last night and will continue to pitch in low leverage situations until he can get back on track. Hierarchy change: Dane de la Rosa to Closer, Kevin Jepsen to Set-up, Ernesto Frieri to 2nd in line.
August 10, 2013
Los Angeles Angels — Dane de la Rosa picked up his first career save on Friday. Ernesto Frieri has not pitched since Tuesday so he should have been well rested. However, manager Mike Scioscia clearly does not trust Frieri right now as he has given up a total of 12 runs in his last 7 appearances. De la Rosa has not allowed a run yet in August and could be close to replacing Frieri as closer. No hierarchy change.
August 7, 2013
Los Angeles Angels — Ernesto Frieri’s struggles continue, this time to the tune of four straight two-out singles that turned a two-run deficit into a five-run hole. The Hot Seat in Anaheim blazes on, with 2-13 Joe Blanton somehow the Angels’ most effective reliever over the past two weeks. No hierarchy change.
August 6, 2013
Los Angeles Angels — Long-injured Ryan Madson got only as far as one single-A rehab appearance this year; it appears that this will be his second straight season out of the majors after the Angels released him on Monday. No hierarchy change.
August 5, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels’ closer-by-committee was a wreck on Sunday, with Ernesto Frieri and Dane de la Rosa combining with several other relievers to blow the game. Frieri was summoned with 2 outs in the 8th inning, and retired the first hitter he faced, but in the 9th, he only recorded one out while allowing a hit and hitting a player with a pitch. De la Rosa then entered and allowed both of the inherited runners to score, saddling Frieri with the loss. This whole bullpen is still on the Hot Seat, though Kevin Jepsen was nowhere to be found during this mess, having pitched in back to back games prior to Sunday. Maybe he’ll get the call next time. No hierarchy change.
July 31, 2013
Los Angeles Angels — In a wild game characterized by awful relief by both teams, Ernesto Frieri blew another save. Frieri has retired only 6 of the last 20 batters he’s faced, and although Dane de la Rosa and Kevin Jepsen were even worse last night, Frieri’s seat is getting hot enough for Mike Scioscia to discuss the possibility of playing matchups in the ninth going forward. No hierarchy change.
July 30, 2013
Los Angeles Angels — Scott Downs was traded to Atlanta on Monday, and Ernesto Frieri had his second terrible outing in his last three appearances, blowing the save and catching the loss. If Frieri keeps this up, Dane de la Rosa and Kevin Jepsen would be Mike Scioscia’s next options to close. Jepsen has a longer track record with the team, but de la Rosa has been picking up some important holds — he pitched the eighth on Monday, while Jepsen has often come in with the team trailing. Keep an eye on this fluid situation if you’re relying on Frieri. Hierarchy change: Dane de la Rosa to Set-up, Ernesto Frieri to Hot Seat.
July 17, 2013
Los Angeles Angels — It’s been a disappointing year for the Angels and it’s unlikely that any exciting bullpen trade news will spark a second-half renaissance. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: None.
July 8, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – Scott Downs had become an out-and-out LOOGY for the better part of two months, but he’s been pitching so well that the Angels have returned him to a full-time set-up role. He hasn’t allowed an earned run in 24 straight appearances dating back to May 1, a stretch which has lowered his ERA to 1.42, and he got the call in the 8th last night, where he pitched a clean inning against the top of the Red Sox lineup. Hierarchy change: Scott Downs to Set-up, Kevin Jepsen to 2nd in line.
June 26, 2013
Los Angeles Angels — Garrett Richards has not collected a hold in the month of June, and he’s allowed eight earned runs over his last five outings (10.1 IP). Scott Downs has 14 holds and saved nine games for the Angels last year; he’s been facing more than just lefties too, although his splits against right-handed hitters are unimpressive. Hierarchy change: Scott Downs to 2nd in line, replacing Garrett Richards.
June 15, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – Kevin Jepsen pitched a scoreless eighth inning ahead of Ernesto Frieri last night. Since coming off the DL on May 26th, Jepsen has pitched 8.2 scoreless innings while only giving up 4 hits. Hierarchy change: Kevin Jepsen to Set-up, Garrett Richards to 2nd in line.
June 6, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – The Angels bullpen has been a real point of strength lately. Converted starter Garrett Richards has taken to his new relief role, and Robert Coello’s WTF pitch has him seeing more higher-leverage innings as well. Also, recently returning from injury was one of Mike Scioscia’s favorite arms from a year ago, Kevin Jepsen. In five appearances since coming off the DL, Jepsen has the following line: 4.2 IP, 7 Ks, 2 hits, 1 walk, 0.00 ERA (and the walk was intentional). Scott Downs might still be an occasional match-up play for a vulture save, but Jepsen is looking like his 2012 self and should start to see more late inning work, as he did last night, pitching the 8th in a tie game. Hierarchy change: Kevin Jepsen to 2nd in line, replacing Scott Downs.
May 31, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – Garrett Richards has pitched the 8th inning ahead of Ernesto Frieri three times in the past week and has moved ahead of Scott Downs on the depth chart. Richards now has five holds on the season, four of which have come in the last eight days. Hierarchy change: Garrett Richards to Set-up, Scott Downs to 2nd in line.
May 25, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri got a night off last night after throwing 35 pitches on Thursday, and Garrett Richards picked up a 1.2 inning save in his absence. No hierarchy change.
May 24, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – Ernesto Frieri got knocked around in the 9th inning last night, allowing four baserunners before being lifted for Robert Coello, who got the game’s final out to pick up his first save. Frieri has now allowed runs in three straight appearances, though he only has one blown save on the season, and with yet another Ryan Madson setback this week, he’s not in danger of losing his job. Coello’s stats, meanwhile, are worth a peek if you haven’t seen what he’s been doing since being called up in mid-May: 7.1 innings, 12 Ks/0 BBs, 0 ERA, 0.28 WHIP, 1 win, 1 save. He’s not on the hierarchy just yet, but with those numbers, the Angels might start giving him some hold opportunities soon. No hierarchy change.
May 15, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – Ryan Madson had a successful rehab appearance on Monday. If all goes well in his next game on Wednesday, he may return from the DL this weekend — although he will not start off as the team’s closer. No hierarchy change.
May 12, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – Garrett Richards pitched a perfect 8th inning with the Angels up one on Saturday. Richards was recently moved to the bullpen and it looks like he will move into a late inning role. Also, Ryan Madson could begin a rehab assignment on Monday and, if everything goes well, be back with the Angels by the end of the week. Hierarchy change: Garret Richards to 2nd in line, replacing Dane De La Rosa.
April 24, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – With Kevin Jepsen on the disabled list with a strained triceps, Scott Downs has been pitching the eighth inning in front of Ernesto Frieri. Downs blew a save last night, the result of an error, but Dane De La Rosa earned the win with two perfect innings of work. Hierarchy change: Kevin Jepsen to DL, Scott Downs to Set-Up, Dane De La Rosa to 2nd in line.
March 20, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – Ryan Madson, who the Angels hoped would be ready for the start of the season, suffered a setback in his rehabilitation last Thursday. Ernesto Frieri will close games until Madson gets healthy, at which point the Angels will have to decide with reliever is better suited for the 9th. No hierarchy change.
February 24, 2013
Los Angeles Angels – Starting 2013 hierarchy: Closer- Ernesto Frieri, Set-up- Kevin Jepsen, 2nd in line- Scott Downs.
September 17, 2012
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.
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.
August 25, 2012
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.
August 19, 2012
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.
August 1, 2012
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.
July 31, 2012
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.
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.
July 24, 2012
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.
July 16, 2012
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.
July 13, 2012
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. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: None.
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.
July 3, 2012
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.
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.
June 21, 2012
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, he’s been used exclusively as a set-up man. The platoon is over; it’s now Frieri’s job for good. No hierarchy change.
June 11, 2012
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.
June 2, 2012
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 get some chances based on match-ups but Frieri should see the majority of save opps going forward. No hierarchy change.
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,” said Mike Scioscia 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.
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.
May 24, 2012
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.
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 Register after 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.
May 12, 2012
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.
May 7, 2012
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.
May 6, 2012
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.
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.
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.
April 17, 2012
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.
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.
March 28, 2012
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.
Sept. 21, 2011
Los Angeles Angels- The Angels were up 5 runs going into the 9th inning last night, but Garrett Richards got in a little trouble, allowing a run and several baserunners before Scott Downs got a one-out save, his first of the season. No hierarchy change.
Aug. 28, 2011
Los Angeles Angels- Jordan Walden loaded the bases with 1 out and a 4 run lead last night and was pulled for Hisanori Takahashi. Takahashi picked up the save by getting a game ending double play. Walden is still the closer and Downs had already pitched the 8th but Takahashi moves ahead of Fernando Rodney. Takahasi to 2nd in line, replacing Rodney.
