Colorado Rockies Fantasy Baseball Daily Bullpen Updates and Closer Depth Chart
| Closer | 1st in line | 2nd in line | 2025 Closer | Updated | |
| COL | *Tyler Kinley | *Seth Halvorsen | Victor Vodnik | Jaden Hill | 9/21/24 |
| (IL) |
*= closer-by-committee
Previous updates:
Colorado Rockies – It was a revolving door at the closer position this season. At the beginning of the season, Justin Lawrence and Tyler Kinley were the top two relievers in the hierarchy. Victor Vodnik emerged as the closer in early July until he landed on the injured list in late August. Kinley reemerged, converting all six save chances until he was placed on the injured list in September. Rookie Seth Halvorsen took over the top of the hierarchy and it appears a spring battle will decide who gets the gig on Opening Day. Based on underlying indicators, plan on Kinley (if healthy) or Halvorsen, with Jaden Hill a potential contender by the second half of 2025.
September 26, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Capping his team’s comeback win, Seth Halvorsen secured his second save, allowing a two-out single and striking out one in a scoreless top of the ninth. He threw 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s made quite an impression as a rookie. Through his first 11 appearances, he’s been scoreless in ten with two wins and two saves.
- Angel Chivilli was awarded his second win despite giving up two hits, including Pedro Pagés two-run home run and striking out one.
- Victor Vodnik tossed a scoreless seventh, walking and striking out one.
- Jake Bird logged 1.2 scoreless innings, yielding a hit and striking out two.
Hierarchy remains: Seth Halvorsen | Angel Chivilli | Victor Vodnik
September 21, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Hanging on for his first career save, Seth Halvorsen worked around three walks while striking out one in a scoreless bottom of the ninth, sealing a three-run win over the Dodgers. It was baptism by fire for the rookie, taking over against the top of the lineup. He allowed Shohei Ohtani’s lead-off single, retired Mookie Betts, walked Freddie Freeman, retired Teoscar Hernández, and walked Tommy Edman before a game-ending Max Muncy strikeout. He entered this outing with no walks in his first eight games but struggled with his command, throwing 23 pitches (12 strikes – 52.2 Strike%) with three whiffs (13 SwStr%). He’s allowed one unearned run since his debut.
- Angel Chivilli tossed a scoreless eighth, walking and striking out one for his sixth hold.
- Victor Vodnik logged 1.2 scoreless frames and struck out one while collecting his fifth win.
Updated Hierarchy: *Seth Halvorsen | *Angel Chivilli | *Victor Vodnik
*= closer-by-committee
September 16, 2024
Colorado Rockies – After tossing two scoreless frames, giving up two hits, and striking out two, Seth Halvorsen collected his second win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the ninth. He threw 23 pitches (18 strikes – 78.3 Strike%) and induced two whiffs against Arizona. Since his promotion, he’s recorded eight scoreless appearances and a win in two of his last four.
- Luis Peralta navigated around a hit and a walk for a scoreless seventh.
- Anthony Molina logged three scoreless innings, yielding a hit and striking out two.
Hierarchy remains: Tyler Kinley | Victor Vodnik | Angel Chivilli
September 14, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Entering at the top of the tenth, Tyler Kinley carved up the Cubs’ 5-6-7 lineup pocket, retiring the side and striking out two, then collected his sixth win on a walk-off rally in the bottom of the frame. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). This extended his scoreless streak to six games, during which he’s converted five saves and this win while recording ten strikeouts against three walks.
- Jaden Hill allowed two hits, an earned run, and a hit batter while striking out one.
- Luis Peralta let one of two inherited runners score despite retiring both batters in the eighth.
- Jake Bird gave up two hits and an earned run while striking out one in one-third of the eighth.
Hierarchy remains: Tyler Kinley | Victor Vodnik | Angel Chivilli
September 13, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Recording a clean top of the ninth, Seth Halvorsen finished a four-run win over the Cubs. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s worked three consecutive clean appearances and been scoreless in six of seven games since his promotion.
- Victor Vodnik suffered his fourth blown save and was awarded his fourth win. He took over with a three-run lead at the top of the eighth, allowing consecutive singles ahead of Cody Bellinger’s game-tying three-run home run. Vodnik also issued a walk during his outing, ahead of his team’s four-run rally at the bottom of the inning.
- Jaden Hill notched his first hold, giving up a hit during a scoreless seventh.
Hierarchy remains: Tyler Kinley | Victor Vodnik | Angel Chivilli
September 12, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Finishing a two-run win in Detroit, Tyer Kinley worked around a one-out walk and a two-out infield single with a game-ending strikeout for his 12th save. He threw 25 pitches (68 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s been scoreless in seven of his last eight games since August 20 and converted all six save chances.
- Seth Halvorsen retired the side and recorded a strikeout, collecting his first major league win.
- Victor Vodnik tossed a scoreless seventh, allowing a walk and striking out one.
- Luis Peralta retired his only batter in the sixth via strikeout.
Updated Hierarchy: Tyler Kinley | Victor Vodnik | Angel Chivilli
September 8, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Preserving a three-run win, Tyler Kinley nailed down his 11th save, firing a clean bottom of the ninth and striking out one in Milwaukee. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (33.3 SwStr%). He’s converted all five save chances since August 26 and has been scoreless in six of his last seven appearances.
- Angel Chivilli notched his fifth hold, tossing a clean eighth and striking out one.
- Seth Halvorsen secured his second hold with a clean seventh and recorded one strikeout.
Updated Hierarchy: *Tyler Kinley | *Victor Vodnik | Angel Chivilli
*= closer-by-committee
September 6, 2024
Colorado Rockies – With a hat tip to his defense, Tyler Kinley notched his tenth save while preserving a one-run win in Milwaukee. He gave up a one-out walk, followed by a pinch-runner stealing second, then induced a Rhys Hoskins flyout with Brenton Doyle throwing out the runner at third for a game-ending double play. Kinley threw 17 pitches (9 strikes – 52.9 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in five of his last six outings and converted his last four saves.
- Angel Chivilli secured his fourth hold, issuing a walk and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
- Seth Halvorsen gave up two hits and an unearned run in the seventh, getting credit for his first hold.
Hierarchy remains: Tyler Kinley | Angel Chivilli | Justin Lawrence
September 5, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Shutting the door on his ninth save, Tyler Kinley took the baton from Austin Gomber and preserved a two-run win in Atlanta. Kinley retired the side and recorded two strikeouts against the 2-3-4 lineup pocket. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%). Since August 1, he’s converted three of four save chances with 18 strikeouts versus three walks across 13.2 innings.
Hierarchy remains: Tyler Kinley | Angel Chivilli | Justin Lawrence
August 31, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Bouncing back with a scoreless ninth, Tyler Kinley recorded his eighth save, working around a walk and striking out three during a two-run win over the Orioles. He threw 23 pitches (14 strikes – 60.9 Strike%) and generated seven whiffs (30.4 SwStr%) while facing the 8-9-1-2 hitters. He finished August with a win and converted three of four save opportunities while posting a 16:3 K:BB over 12.2 innings.
- Jeff Criswell collected his first win, allowing a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth, ahead of his team’s two-run rally in the bottom of the inning.
- Seth Halvorsen retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the seventh.
- Luis Peralta logged 1.1 scoreless, issuing a walk, and stranded two runners in the fifth.
Hierarchy remains: Tyler Kinley | Angel Chivilli | Justin Lawrence
August 26, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Locking down his seventh save, Tyler Kinley retired the side and recorded two strikeouts while preserving a one-run win over Miami. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and generated seven whiffs (46.7 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in 12 of 13 appearances since July 28, with 16 strikeouts against three walks through 14 innings.
- Angel Chivilli notched his third hold, giving up a hit and striking out two in a scoreless eighth.
- Justin Lawrence gave up a hit during a scoreless seventh, securing his fourth hold.
- Jake Bird collected his second win. He tossed a scoreless sixth, issuing a walk and striking out two.
Updated Hierarchy: Tyler Kinley | Angel Chivilli | Justin Lawrence
August 21, 2024
Colorado Rockies – After experiencing soreness in his shoulder warming for a save chance on Tuesday, Victor Vodnik was placed on the 15-day injured list with right biceps inflammation, backdated to August 19 per the team’s account. Fantasy managers seeking saves in this leverage ladder should prioritize Tyler Kinley. He’s been scoreless in 11 of his 12 outings since July 28 with 14 strikeouts against three walks and a 0.54 WHIP over 13 innings.
Updated Hierarchy: Tyler Kinley | Angel Chivilli | Lucas Gilbreath
August 20, 2024
Colorado: In a surprise move, Angel Chivilli recorded his first major league save, closing out a two-run win in Washington. He navigated around a one-out walk and Luis Garcia Jr.’s single with a pop-out and a game-ending groundout. He threw 19 pitches (14 strikes – 73.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (21.1 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless over his last four appearances.
- Tyler Kinley allowed a one-out double and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless eighth for his 14th hold, matching up with the top of the Nationals’ lineup.
- After the game, manager Bud Black confirmed Victor Vodnik started warming up but stopped with shoulder soreness.
Hierarchy remains: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Angel Chivilli
August 18, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Working around a one-out walk, Victor Vodnik preserved a one-run while securing his ninth save. He threw 18 pitches (55.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff during a scoreless top of the ninth against the Padres. He’s converted seven of eight save opportunities in the second half with 11 strikeouts against eight walks and a 1.47 WHIP over 14.1 innings.
- Tyler Kinley allowed Manny Machado’s solo home run and recorded a strikeout for his 13th hold in the eighth, matching up with the 4-5-6 lineup pocket.
- Angel Chivilli logged 1.1 clean frames and recorded his first major league win while striking out two.
Updated Hierarchy: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Angel Chivilli
August 16, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Wrapping up a four-run win, Victor Vodnik navigated an error and a single with a double play groundout, then issued a walk before inducing a game-ending groundout. He threw 17 pitches (9 strikes – 52.9 Strike%) and induced one whiff.
- Tyler Kinley stranded two runners in the seventh and worked 1.1 scoreless frames. He allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts for his 12th hold.
- In his season debut, Lucas Gilbreath issued a walk and retired two batters in the seventh.
- Angel Chivilli escaped with a scoreless sixth and second hold despite giving up a hit and two walks while striking out one.
Updated Hierarchy: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Lucas Gilbreath
August 13, 2024
Colorado Rockies – With a one-run lead, Victor Vodnik could secure the win in Arizona. He allowed a one-out Corbin Carroll triple and recorded a strikeout, but with two outs, things went awry. He issued consecutive walks to load the bases and gave up Jake McCarthy’s walk-off two-RBI single, resulting in his third loss and third blown save. He finished with two hits, two earned runs, and two walks while striking out one during his two-thirds of an inning. He’s logged seven appearances in August with five scoreless and converted four of five saves, but his 2.22 WHIP over 6.1 innings must be monitored.
- Tyler Kinley notched his 11th hold. He retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the eighth.
- Noah Davis navigated around a hit and a walk for a scoreless seventh and his first hold.
Hierarchy remains: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence
August 11, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Capping his team’s seven-run eighth-inning rally, Victor Vodnik navigated around a lead-off single in the top of the ninth by inducing a double play groundout and recording a game-ending strikeout of Travis d’Arnaud for his eighth save. He threw 17 pitches (11 strikes – 64.7 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (11.8 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in seven of his last eight and converted five saves.
- Jake Rogers was credited with his second win despite allowing three hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one over 1.2 innings.
- Justin Lawrence struggled once again. He gave up three hits, four earned runs, and a walk during one-third of the seventh.
Hierarchy remains: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence
August 9, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Securing his seventh save against his former franchise, Victor Vodnik tossed a scoreless ninth. He allowed a hit and produced a game-ending strikeout of Austin Riley, preserving the one-run lead. He’s converted seven of eight save chances since July 13.
- Tyler Kinley was awarded his fifth win, working a scoreless eighth. He gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout. He’s been scoreless over his last seven appearances.
- Angel Chivilli suffered his first blown save, allowing a game-tying Jorge Soler, scoring an inherited runner, and putting an earned run on his ledger.
- Justin Lawrence was credited with his third hold despite giving up two hits and two earned runs over 1.1 innings.
Hierarchy remains: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence
August 7, 2024
Colorado Rockies – In a rare meltdown, Victor Vodnik suffered his second loss. He allowed three hits, three earned runs, and two walks while striking out one in the top of the ninth. He threw 23 pitches (10 strikes – 43.5 Strike%) and did not induce a whiff.
- Justin Lawrence stranded two runners for him in the top of the ninth, retiring Pete Alonso via strikeout.
- Tyler Kinley tossed a scoreless eighth, issuing a walk and striking out one.
- Angel Chivilli worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one.
- Chasen Shreve debuted with a scoreless sixth, giving up a hit.
Hierarchy remains: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence
August 6, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Navigating around a lead-off single with three consecutive outs, Victor Vodnik secured his sixth save with a scoreless ninth. He threw 16 pitches (50 Strike%) without a whiff. Since July 6, he’s recorded six saves with 13 strikeouts against five walks while being scoreless in nine of 12 appearances.
- Tyler Kinley fired a clean eighth and recorded two strikeouts for his tenth hold.
- Angel Chivilli worked around two hits for a scoreless seventh and his first hold.
- Justin Lawrence collected his fourth win. He tossed 1.1 scoreless innings and stranded a runner in the fifth despite yielding two hits.
Hierarchy remains: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence
August 2, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Pitching for a third consecutive day, Victor Vodnik secured his fifth save with a scoreless ninth. He allowed a one-out walk by Jake Cronenworth but retired the next two batters, preserving a three-run win in San Diego. He threw 23 pitches (15 strikes – 65.2 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (13 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in seven of his last eight contests, recording a win and four saves with nine strikeouts against three walks.
- Tyler Kinley also logged a third straight appearance, securing his ninth hold with a clean eighth inning.
Hierarchy remains: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence
August 1, 2024
Colorado Rockies – With a one-run lead in the bottom of the tenth, Tyler Kinley retired the side and recorded a strikeout against the Angels’ 3-4-5 hitters despite uncorking a wild pitch. This marked his first save since June 11.
- Victor Vodnik collected his third win. He threw a scoreless ninth, allowing a walk and striking out one while his team trailed by one, then benefited from a game-tying two-run home run by Jake Cave. Vodnik tossed 18 pitches (55.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in six of his last seven appearances with eight strikeouts against two walks while converting this win and three saves.
- Angel Chivilli worked a clean seventh and recorded a strikeout.
Hierarchy remains: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence
July 31, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Locking down his fourth save, Victor Vodnik retired the side and recorded a strikeout while preserving a one-run win over the Angels. He threw eight pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Through 11 outings in July, he converted all four save chances with 13 strikeouts versus three walks and a 0.90 WHIP across 13.1 innings.
- Tyler Kinley notched his eighth hold with a scoreless eighth. He allowed a walk and struck out two.
Updated Hierarchy: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence
Closer CliffsNotes for Monkey
July 22, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Despite letting the “place” runner score in the top of the 12th, Justin Lawrence collected his third win following his team’s walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He logged two innings, allowing an RBI single and striking out one.
- Victor Vodnik gave up two hits and two runs (one earned) while recording a strikeout during his two-inning outing. He tossed a scoreless ninth and gave up both runs in the top of the tenth on a Dominic Smith double and a sacrifice fly.
- Jalen Beeks suffered his seventh blown save, giving up three hits, including a game-tying Connor Wong solo home run in the eighth.
- Nick Mears retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the seventh.
Updated Hierarchy: *Jalen Beeks | *Victor Vodnik | Nick Mears
*= closer-by-committee
July 20, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Securing his third save, Victor Vodnik retired the side and recorded a strikeout during a one-run win over the Giants. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He owns a three-game scoreless streak and has forged a save share at the onset of the second half.
- Nick Mears notched his eighth hold, logging two clean frames and striking out four on 26 pitches (19 strikes – 73.1 Strike%) with seven whiffs (26.9 SwStr%).
Updated Hierarchy: *Jalen Beeks | *Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley
*= closer-by-committee
July 19, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Capping a comeback rally, Victor Vodnik fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout in a four-run win over the Giants. He threw eight pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in five of seven outings in July while converting both save chances.
- Jalen Beeks collected his sixth win, retiring all four batters faced, two via strikeout, on 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) with one whiff. His big moment was stranded the bases loaded in the top of the seventh.
- Tyler Kinley allowed two hits and a walk while striking out two over two-thirds scoreless in the seventh.
Hierarchy remains: Jalen Beeks | Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley
July 18, 2024
Colorado Rockies – If they can move Jalen Beeks, the team will do so. Focus on relievers capable of operating in Coors with velocity and an arsenal suited for the ballpark would help moving forward.
Hierarchy remains: Jalen Beeks | Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley
July 14, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Summoned with one out and two runners on, Victor Vodnik took over in the bottom of the eighth and issued a walk to Francisco Lindor, induced a fielder’s choice groundout, scoring a run and an inning-ending lineout by Francisco Alvarez. In the ninth, he allowed consecutive one-out singles before recording back-to-back strikeouts, converting his second save. He worked 1.2 scoreless innings, allowing two hits and a walk while striking out two on 38 pitches (22 strikes – 57.9 Strike%) with five whiffs (13.2 SwStr%).
- Jalen Beeks gave up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one in one-third of the eighth.
Hierarchy remains: Jalen Beeks | Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley
July 10, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Hanging on for his ninth save, Jalen Beeks allowed Tyler Stephenson’s lead-off home run, consecutive singles, an RBI single by Santiago Espinal, and a sacrifice fly before recording a game-ending groundout by Elly De La Cruz. Beeks finished with three hits and two earned runs on 21 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with two whiffs. This snapped his three-game scoreless streak.
- Victor Vodnik recorded his sixth hold while giving up a solo home run by Jonathan India and striking out two in the eighth.
Updated Hierarchy: Jalen Beeks | Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley
July 6, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Navigating around a one-out single and a two-out walk, Victor Vodnik recorded his first major league save with a scoreless ninth, preserving a two-run win over the Royals. He threw 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs while striking out one in his outing. He owns a modest six-game scoreless streak with eight strikeouts against three walks.
- Tyler Kinley notched his sixth hold, allowing a hit during a scoreless eighth facing the top of the lineup and benefiting from Bobby Witt Jr. being picked off first base.
Hierarchy remains: Jalen Beeks | Tyler Kinley | Victor Vodnik
July 5, 2024
Colorado Rockies – After allowing consecutive singles leading off the top of the ninth, Jalen Beeks recovered with three quick outs and secured his eighth save. He recorded a strikeout against Garrett Hampson, induced a Dairon Blanco pop-out, and a game-ending Maikel Garcia groundout, preserving the two-run win. He threw 17 pitches (9 strikes – 52.9 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in his three July appearances and recorded a save on consecutive days.
- Victor Vodnik collected his second win, tossing a scoreless top of the eighth. He gave up a hit and struck out one ahead of his team’s two-run rally in the bottom of the inning.
Hierarchy remains: Jalen Beeks | Tyler Kinley | Victor Vodnik
July 4, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Preserving a one-run win, Jalen Beeks notched his seventh save and retired all four batters versus the Brewers. He entered in the eighth with two runners on against Garrett Mitchell via strikeout and retired Milwaukee’s top of the order in the ninth. He threw 22 pitches (14 strikes – 63.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff.
- Tyler Kinley recorded his fifth hold, logging 1.2 scoreless frames, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out two.
- Anthony Molina collected his first win and was tagged with his second blown save, giving up two hits, including a game-tying Jackson Chourio RBI double. His teammates retook the lead with the go-ahead run at the inning’s bottom.
Updated Hierarchy: Jalen Beeks | Tyler Kinley | Victor Vodnik
July 2, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Taking over with a one-run lead, Nick Mears suffered his fourth loss and second blown save. It began with a lead-off single by Andruw Monaterio, a Brice Turang walk, and a one-out single by Christian Yelich to load the bases. Mears allowed a game-tying sacrifice fly, issued a walk, and recorded a strikeout before his removal.
- Justin Lawrence took over the bases-loaded situation, hitting Rhys Hoskins, forcing across a run, striking out Blake Perkins, and ending the inning.
- Jalen Beeks was in line for the win after working a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit and striking out against the Brewers 5-6-7 lineup pocket.
- Ty Blach was tagged with his first blown save, giving up three hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one over two innings. The Rockies’ last save was on June 11 by Tyler Kinley.
Hierarchy remains: Jalen Beeks | Victor Vodnik | Justin Lawrence
July 1, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Tyler Kinley collected his fourth win. He navigated around a walk and two stolen bases with a fielder’s choice groundout erasing the “place” runner at home, followed by an inning-ending strikeout in a scoreless tenth inning.
- Victor Vodnik fired a clean top of the ninth, preserving the tie while facing Milwaukee’s top of the lineup.
- Justin Lawrence suffered his fourth blown save in the eighth. He let both inherited runners score, one on a sacrifice fly and one on an RBI single. He gave up two hits during his two-thirds inning.
- Anthony Molina was credited with his first hold. After tossing a scoreless seventh, he ran into trouble in the eighth, allowing a triple followed by two singles before being removed. He finished with three earned runs, three hits, and a walk while striking out two over 1.1 innings.
Updated Hierarchy: Jalen Beeks | Victor Vodnik | Justin Lawrence
June 30, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Although he suffered his sixth blown save in the bottom of the 13th, Jalen Beeks preserved a one-run lead in the 14th for his fifth win. He logged two innings, giving up two hits and an unearned run while striking out one.
- Tyler Kinley tossed two scoreless frames, issuing a walk and striking out one.
- Nick Mears also let the “place” runner score in the tenth, getting tagged with his first blown save.
- Justin Lawrence worked a scoreless ninth, yielding a hit and keeping the game tied.
- Victor Vodnik let one of three inherited runners score on a bases-loaded walk and recorded two strikeouts over 1.1 scoreless, resulting in his second blown save.
Updated Hierarchy: Jalen Beeks | Justin Lawrence | Victor Vodnik
June 23, 2024
(RP | COL): One day removed from recording a win, Jalen Beeks could not close out his save chance on Sunday. He allowed a lead-off single by Jacob Young, induced a fielder’s choice groundout, but advanced the runner with a wild pitch, followed by a game-tying RBI double by Lane Thomas, who promptly stole third. After a strikeout, Beeks gave up a go-ahead RBI single by Joey Meneses before inducing an inning-ending flyout by Eddie Rosario. His final line, three hits against and two earned runs with two strikeouts resulted in his fourth loss and a fifth blown save.
Hierarchy remains: *Jalen Beeks | *Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence
*= closer-by-committee (match-up-based)
June 22, 2024
(RP | COL): Benefiting from a walk-off walk, Jalen Beeks collected his fourth win. He tossed 1.1 clean frames and recorded a strikeout. He threw nine pitches (77.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He owns a seven-game scoreless streak, spanning nine innings while recording two wins and three holds.
Hierarchy remains: *Jalen Beeks | *Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence
*= closer-by-committee (match-up-based)
June 19, 2024
(RP | COL): After navigating around a two-out double, Jalen Beeks tossed a scoreless top of the ninth and recording a strikeout, keeping the game tied. He collected his third win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Benefiting from a walk-off rally in the bottom of the ninth, Jalen Beeks collected his third win. He allowed a two-out double by Andy Pages and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless appearance. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s amid a modest six-game scoreless streak spanning 7.2 innings. Jake Bird gave up a hit and a walk while striking out two in a scoreless eighth. Nick Mears logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out two.
Hierarchy remains: *Jalen Beeks | *Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence
*= closer-by-committee (match-up-based)
June 18, 2024
(RP | COL): Forced into action with a one-run lead in the top of the ninth, Victor Vodnik suffered his first loss and blown save, allowing two hits and a walk, including a three-run, go-ahead home run by Teoscar Hernández.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Concluding an epic meltdown in the top of the ninth, Victor Vodnik suffered his first loss and first blown save. He allowed two hits, including a go-ahead three-run home run by Teoscar Hernández, and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the ninth. Tyler Kinley entered with a five-run lead and struggled. He gave up two hits and two walks, culminating in a grand slam by Jason Heyward during his one-third of the ninth. He threw 27 pitches (14 strikes – 51.9 Strike%) and induced three whiffs. Jalen Beeks logged 1.1 scoreless frames, issuing two walks. This leverage ladder remains volatile, not only in usage patterns but also in its outcomes.
Hierarchy remains: *Jalen Beeks | *Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence
*= closer-by-committee (match-up-based)
June 17, 2024
(RP | COL): Colorado activated Justin Lawrence off the injured list. He reenters our hierarchy and time will tell if he can earn a save share.
Updated Hierarchy: *Jalen Beeks | *Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence
*= closer-by-committee (match-up-based)
June 11, 2024
(RP | COL): Taking over with a three-run lead, Tyler Kinley held on for his fifth save. He allowed two hits, including a two-run home run by Carlos Santana and recorded two strikeouts during an eventual one-run win.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Hanging on for his fifth save, Tyler Kinley allowed two hits, including a two-run home run by Carlos Santana, before a game-ending strikeout of Jose Miranda. Kinley finished with two hits against, two earned runs, and two strikeouts while throwing 20 pitches (75 Strike%) with five whiffs (25 SwStr%). He’s converted a save in his last three appearances and allowed multiple runs in two of five outings this month. Jalen Beeks logged 1.2 scoreless frames, yielding a hit. Victor Vodnik only recorded one out in the seventh, allowing two hits and a two-run home run by Byron Buxton. He also issued a walk and struck out one.
Hierarchy remains: *Jalen Beeks | *Tyler Kinley | Victor Vodnik
*= closer-by-committee (match-up-based)
June 8, 2024
(RP | COL): Entering with a one-run lead in the bottom of the ninth, Tyler Kinley worked around a one-out double for a scoreless outing, securing his fourth save and striking out one in St. Louis.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Matching up with Nolan Arenado’s lineup pocket, Tyler Kinley struck him out, allowed a double by Brendan Donovan, induced a lineout by Iván Herrera, and recorded a game-ending pop-out by Matt Carpenter for his fourth save. He preserved a one-run lead by throwing 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and producing two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in three of his last four with two saves and one hold. Jalen Beeks fired a clean bottom of the eighth, facing the Cardinals’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket, recording two strikeouts for his fourth hold. Victor Vodnik lost his six-game scoreless streak on a home run by Carpenter in the bottom of the seventh. Collecting his first win, Vodnik logged 1.2 innings, allowing two hits and an earned run while striking out two.
Hierarchy remains: *Jalen Beeks | *Tyler Kinley | Victor Vodnik
*= closer-by-committee (match-up-based)
June 7, 2024
(RP | COL): With the score tied in the eighth, Matt Carasiti suffered his first loss. In two-thirds of an inning, he allowed three hits, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out one.
Hierarchy remains: *Jalen Beeks | *Tyler Kinley | Victor Vodnik
*= closer-by-committee (match-up-based)
June 6, 2024
(RP | COL): Entering with two outs in the ninth, Tyler Kinley issued a walk then produced a game-ending strikeout for his third save while preserving a one-run win in St. Louis.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Bud Black’s wheel of high-leverage fortunes fell upon Tyler Kinley in St. Louis. He earned his third save, preserving a one-run win despite allowing a single by Paul Goldschmidt by recording a game-ending strikeout of Nolan Gorman. He was lined up against the right-handed 3-4-5 lineup pocket featuring Goldschmidt and Nolan Arenado. Jalen Beeks fired 1.2 clean frames, recording two strikeouts for his third hold. He threw 21 pitches (13 strikes – 61.9 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (19 SwStr%). Victor Vodnik extended his scoreless streak to six with 1.1 scoreless innings but issued two walks. He did strand two runners in the sixth for Matt Carasiti.
Hierarchy remains: *Jalen Beeks | *Tyler Kinley | Victor Vodnik
*= closer-by-committee (match-up-based)
June 5, 2024
(RP | COL): With a one-run lead and two outs, things went awry for Jalen Beeks. He allowed a go-ahead two-run home run and finished with three hits against, five earend runs, a walk, and a hit-batter during his two-thirds of the ninth. He suffered his third loss, and fourth blown save, while wreaking havoc on fantasy manager’s ratios.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Things went off the rails quickly in the ninth for the Rockies, resulting in a loss. Jalen Beeks entered with a one-run lead and hit leadoff batter TJ Friedl with a pitch before recording two outs. But Spencer Steer launched a go-ahead two-run home run followed by consecutive singles and a walk, prompting Beeks’ removal. Angel Chivilli took over, walked in a run, then allowed a Jonathan India grand slam, blowing the game open. In the eighth, Beeks suffered his third loss and his fourth blown save, allowing three hits and five earned runs over two-thirds of an inning. Tyler Kinley was credited with his fourth hold despite giving up a hit, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out two. Nick Mears recorded his sixth hold. Victor Vodnik logged 1.2 clean frames, striking out two. He’s a reliever worth tracking for save chances soon.
Hierarchy remains: *Jalen Beeks | *Tyler Kinley | Victor Vodnik
*= closer-by-committee (match-up-based)
May 31, 2024
(RP | COL): After stranding two runners in the eighth with a strikeout against Freddie Freeman, Jalen Beeks returned for the ninth, retiring the side en route to his sixth save.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Forced into duty in the bottom of the eighth with two runners on, Jalen Beeks stranded them by striking out Freddie Freeman. He returned for the ninth and retired the side for his sixth save, preserving a three-run win. He logged 1.1 clean frames and struck out two on 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) with two whiffs. He has allowed at least a run in five of 13 appearances in May while converting six of eight save chances with 13 strikeouts versus six walks over 12.2 innings. Victor Vodnik was credited with his fourth hold, allowing a hit and a walk during two-thirds scoreless in the eighth.
Updated Hierarchy: *Jalen Beeks | *Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence
*= closer-by-committee
May 29, 2024
(RP | COL): An odd ninth inning resulted in two earned runs on the ledger for Tyler Kinley. He finished with two hits against, two earned runs allowed, and recorded three strikeouts. But defensive indifference and a wild pitch were the culprits.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Closing out a win over the Guardians, Tyler Kinley let Johnathan Rodriguez reach after a strikeout on a wild pitch. With two outs, he gave up a single by Will Brennan, who scored him after he moved up to second on defensive indifference. Which Brennan also did ahead of a Brayan Rocchio single. Kinley issued Tyler Freeman a walk with two outs before striking out Andrés Giménez, preserving the three-run win. His final line was an inning pitched with two hits allowed, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out three on 28 pitches (64.3 Strike%) with six whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). Jalen Beeks retired the side in the eighth, striking out one against the 2-3-4 lineup pocket.
Hierarchy remains (match-up-based): *Tyler Kinley | *Jalen Beeks | Justin Lawrence
*= closer-by-committee
May 28, 2024
(RP | COL): Entering in the fifth, Peter Lambert suffered his fourth loss, giving up an earned run and a walk while striking out one over his two innings of relief.
Hierarchy remains (match-up-based): *Tyler Kinley | *Jalen Beeks | Justin Lawrence
*= closer-by-committee
May 27, 2024
(RP | COL): Closing out his fifth save, Jalen Beeks allowed two hits and an earned run while striking out two during a two-run win over the Guardians. He’s given up a run in four straight outings.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Despite allowing a run for a fourth straight appearance, Jalen Beeks held on for his fifth save, closing out a two-run win over Cleveland. He allowed a one-out double by Tyler Freeman and an RBI single by Andrés Giménez before striking out José Ramírez and inducing a game-ending pop-out by Josh Naylor. Beeks threw 18 pitches (13 strikes – 72.2 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). He’s converted five of seven save opportunities this month. Victor Vodnik turned in 1.1 scoreless innings, scattering two hits. Josh Rogers recorded his first win as the “bulk follower,” logging five innings, giving up four hits and two earned runs with two strikeouts.
Hierarchy remains (match-up-based): *Tyler Kinley | *Jalen Beeks | Justin Lawrence
*= closer-by-committee
May 26, 2024
(RP | COL): Resembling his team’s season, Tyler Kinley has improved of late and recorded his second save, closing out a three-run win over the Phillies, retiring the side against the 4-5-6 hitters on nine pitches.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Perhaps earning a larger leverage share, Tyler Kinley closed out his second save, retiring the side against the Phillies’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket. He threw nine pitches (66.7 Strike%) without a whiff. After giving up at least a run in two straight games, he’s produced two clean outings with a win and this save. This bullpen’s hierarchy is unclear, but Kinley could emerge as the primary save share over the next two weeks. Nick Mears secured his fifth hold, allowing a hit during a scoreless eighth. Matt Carasiti notched his first hold, giving up a hit and striking out two in a scoreless seventh.
This represents a tentative hierarchy since roles may undergo adjustments in the upcoming week.
Adjusted Hierarchy (match-up-based): *Tyler Kinley | *Jalen Beeks | Justin Lawrence
*= closer-by-committee
May 25, 2024
(RP | COL): Handed a save chance in the top of the ninth, Justin Lawrence let his only inherited runner score on an RBI triple, allowing three hits total, three earned runs, and a walk over two-thirds of the inning, resulting in his third loss and third blown save.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Another day, another wasted opportunity by the bullpen. During the ninth, John Curtiss took over with two runners and two outs, giving up a three-run home run by Bryce Harper, an Alec Bohm double, and an RBI single by Nick Castellanos, who was thrown out at second, representing his only out in the appearance. Justin Lawrence suffered his third loss and third blown save, giving up three hits, three earned runs, and a walk during his two-thirds of the ninth. He also let an inherited runner score on an RBI triple. Jalen Beeks was credited with his second hold. He entered in the seventh and stranded a runner despite giving up a single. He also worked a clean eighth. But his manager used him in the ninth, his second up-down, and Beeks walked Brandon Marsh, who scored, putting a run on his ledger during his 1.1 innings. Victor Vodnik recorded two outs and issued a walk during his two-thirds of the seventh for his second hold.
This represents a tentative hierarchy since roles may undergo adjustments in the upcoming week.
Adjusted Hierarchy (match-up-based): *Jalen Beeks | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence
*= closer-by-committee
May 24, 2024
(RP | COL): Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Tyler Kinley collected his third win after retiring the side in the top of the 11th, recording two strikeouts against the Phillies.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Not only did Tyler Kinley retire the side in the top of the 11th while recording two strikeouts, but he also collected his third win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 12 pitches (83.3 Strike%) without a whiff facing the Phillies’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket, though Johan Rojas replaced Bryce Harper. Nick Mears logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out two. Matt Carasiti tossed 1.1 scoreless innings, allowing a hit and striking out one.
Hierarchy remains: Jalen Beeks | Justin Lawrence | Tyler Kinley
May 23, 2024
(RP | COL): In an eventual loss in the 11th inning, Jalen Beeks suffered his third blown save, giving up a game-tying lead-off, solo home run by Daz Cameron in the bottom of the ninth.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Issuing a walk-off walk, Peter Lambert suffered his third loss. He allowed two hits, an earned run, and two walks (one intentional) while striking out one over two-thirds of the 11th inning. Matt Koch opened the 11th with a four-run lead and gave up three hits, including a two-run home run and four runs (three earned) without recording an out. Justin Lawrence logged 1.1 innings, allowing a hit, an unearned run, and two walks. Jalen Beeks was tagged with his third blown save, serving up a game-tying solo home run by Daz Cameron leading off the bottom of the ninth. Beeks finished with two hits against, one earned run, and one strikeout during his two-thirds of an inning. Tyler Kinley was credited with his third hold but gave up two hits, including a two-run home run, and struck out one in the eighth.
Hierarchy remains: Jalen Beeks | Justin Lawrence | Tyler Kinley
May 22, 2024
(RP | COL): Outlasting the A’s in a 12-inning contest, Matt Koch issued a walk and induced a game-ending flyout with two runners on for his first save of the season.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Completing a back-and-forth contest, Matt Koch recorded his first save of the season. After issuing a walk, he induced a game-ending flyout, stranding a runner and preserving the one-run win in the bottom of the 12th. Nick Mears collected his first win, giving up a hit, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out three over 1.2 innings. Victor Vodnik fired a clean tenth, striking out one. Jalen Beeks suffered his second blown save. It began with a one-out single by Brent Rookier, replaced by pinch runner Esteury Ruiz, a two-out walk, and an RBI single by Zack Gelof, scoring the game-tying run. This outing snapped his modest five-game scoreless streak.
Hierarchy remains: Jalen Beeks | Justin Lawrence | Tyler Kinley
May 21, 2024
(RP | COL): In the eighth inning during a tied game, Tyler Kinley served up a lead-off solo home run by Abraham Toro, among his two hits and a walk, while striking out two, resulting in his first loss.
Hierarchy remains: Jalen Beeks | Justin Lawrence (HLR) | Tyler Kinley
May 14, 2024
(RP | COL): Extending his team’s win streak to six games, Tyler Kinley closed out his first save with a clean bottom of the ninth.
Hierarchy remains: Jalen Beeks | Justin Lawrence (HLR) | Jake Bird
May 13, 2024
(RP | COL): Hanging on for his fourth save, Jalen Beeks navigated around three walks with a game-ending double play groundout, closing out a one-run win in San Diego.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies -Confirming his status as the team’s preferred save share, Jalen Beeks held on for his fourth save despite issuing three walks and a wild pitch in the bottom of the ninth courtesy of a game-ending double play ground out by Manny Machado. He threw 23 pitches (10 strikes – 43.4 Strike%) and produced one whiff. This was his fourth outing in five days, and he’s recorded a game-finished in each of his last seven. Justin Lawrence notched his second hold, tossing two scoreless innings, allowing three walks, and striking out one. He also stranded two runners. Jake Bird retired one in the sixth but gave up a hit, an earned run on a solo home run, and two walks in his one-third combined innings.
Updated Hierarchy: Jalen Beeks | Justin Lawrence (HLR) | Jake Bird
May 12, 2024
(RP | COL): Securing his third save, and a sweep against Texas, Jalen Beeks worked around two hits for a scoreless top of the ninth, preserving a two-run win.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Closing out a sweep of Texas, Jalen Beeks recorded his third save, navigating around two hits for a scoreless ninth, preserving a 3-1 win. He threw 20 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted a save in three of his last four outings and five straight games-finished. Tyler Kinley notched his second hold, walking one during a scoreless eighth. Victor Vodnik logged two scoreless frames, allowing a walk and striking out one for his first hold.
Updated Hierarchy: *Jalen Beeks | *Justin Lawrence (HLR) | Jake Bird
*= closer-by-committee
May 11, 2024
(RP | COL): Benefiting from a six-run outburst by his teammates in the bottom of the seventh, Tyler Kinley collected his second win, firing 1.1 clean frames and striking out one against Texas.
Updated Hierarchy: *Justin Lawrence | *Jake Bird | *Jalen Beeks
*= closer-by-committee
May 10, 2024
(RP | COL): Preserving a two-run win, Jalen Beeks recorded his second save, retiring the side in the top of the ninth against Texas.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Putting the bow on a late rally, Jalen Beeks secured his second save, retiring the 7-8-9 Rangers’ lineup pocket in the top of the ninth, preserving a two-run win. He threw nine pitches (4 strikes – 44.4 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s been scoreless in three of his last four and recorded a save in two of three outings. Jake Bird collected his first win, firing a clean eighth and striking out two. Justin Lawrence entered in the seventh with two runners on but let one score on a bases-loaded walk. He issued two walks and struck out one over one-third of the seventh, throwing 16 pitches (43.8 Strike%).
Updated Hierarchy: *Justin Lawrence | *Jake Bird | *Jalen Beeks
*= closer-by-committee
May 3, 2024
(RP | COL): Wrapping up an eight-run win, Jalen Beeks retired all four batters faced and recorded two strikeouts. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).
Hierarchy remains: Justin Lawrence | Jake Bird | Jalen Beeks
May 4, 2024
(RP | COL): Entering a scoreless tie in the bottom of the ninth, Nick Mears suffered his third loss, allowing two hits, including a game-winning RBI single by Jack Suwinski, scoring the games only run. Mears gave up two hits, an earned run, and two walks (one intentional) over two-thirds of an inning.
Hierarchy remains: Justin Lawrence | Jake Bird | Jalen Beeks
May 3, 2024
(RP | COL): After serving up a two-run home run by Oneil Cruz scoring an inherited runner, Jalen Beeks retired the next two batters via strikeout for his first save of the season.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Although he let his only inherited runner score on a home run by Oneil Cruz, Jalen Beeks was credited with his first save while logging two-thirds of an inning in the bottom of the ninth. This represents his first save since May 31 last year. He threw 10 pitches (90 Strike%) and induced four whiffs (40 SwStr%). Jake Bird was credited with his third hold, issuing two walks resulting in an earned run and recording a strikeout over his two-thirds combined innings.
Hierarchy remains: Justin Lawrence | Jake Bird / Jalen Beeks
May 2, 2024
(RP | COL): Despite recording three strikeouts over two combined innings, Justin Lawrence suffered his first loss when the “place” runner scored on a walk-off single in the bottom the tenth, scoring as an inherited runner.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Taking over with a runner on, and one out, Jalen Beeks let the game-winning run score on a walk-off, RBI single by Jesús Luzárdo in the bottom of the tenth, letting his only inherited runner score. Beeks also issued a walk and retired one during his appearance. Justin Lawrence suffered his second loss, allowing an unearned run and striking out three over two combined innings. He threw 22 pitches (15 strikes – 68.2 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%). Ty Blach logged four scoreless frames as the “bulk follower”, scattering three hits and striking out two.
After the game, the team placed Lawrence on paternity leave, he could be activated later this weekend.
Updated hierarchy: Justin Lawrence | Jake Bird / Jalen Beeks
April 30, 2024
(RP | COL): Taking over in the ninth with two runners on, Justin Lawrence could not stem the tide, giving up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk over his one-third of an inning, resulting in his first blown save.
Analysis
Colorado Rockies – Death, taxes, and high-leverage meltdowns by the Rockies bullpen. Entering in the bottom of the ninth, Justin Lawrence took over with two runners on and issued a walk, allowing a two-RBI single, another single, hit a batter (Jesús Sánchez), and a sacrifice fly, tying the game, then was removed. Lawrence let both inherited runners score, giving up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk during his one-third of an inning, resulting in his first blown save. Jalen Beeks took over, recording a strikeout, issuing an intentional walk, and induced an inning-ending flyout. He returned for the tenth, giving up an RBI double by Bryan De La Cruz scoring the “place” runner and a walk-off single, handing him his second loss.
Hierarchy remains: Justin Lawrence | Jake Bird / Nick Mears
April 25, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Capping a six-run rally in the bottom of the eight, Justin Lawrence locked down his second save, firing a clean ninth, and striking out one. He threw 14 pitches (8 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted saves in his last two contests and been scoreless in four of his last five outings. Tyler Kinley collected his first win despite giving up three hits and an earned run while striking out one in the eighth. Nick Mears gave up two hits and two earned runs while striking out two in the seventh. Peter Lambert logged 2.2 scoreless frames.
Updated hierarchy: Justin Lawrence | Jake Bird / Nick Mears
April 23, 2024
Colorado Rockies – In attack mode, Justin Lawrence recorded his first save of the season, navigating around a two-out single by Jake Cronenworth with a game-ending flyout by Jurickson Profar. Lawrence threw 10 pitches (80 Strike%) without producing a whiff. This marks his first save since September 12 of last year. Jake Bird tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and striking out one. Jalen Beeks collected his second win, logging three scoreless frames, walking one, and striking out two.
Updated hierarchy: *Justin Lawrence | *Nick Mears | Jake Bird
*= closer-by-committee
Colorado Rockies – (Game 1): Benefiting from a walk-off rally in the bottom of the tenth, Justin Lawrence collected his first win despite giving up an RBI single in the top of the inning by J.P. Crawford, scoring the “place” runner. Lawrence also recorded two strikeouts while throwing 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and producing four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). Nick Mears tossed a scoreless ninth, allowing a hit and striking out one, keeping the game tied. Jake Bird logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out three.
(Game 2): During a lopsided loss, Tyler Kinley fired a clean top of the ninth, striking out two on 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) with two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%).
Hierarchy remains: *Nick Mears | *Justin Lawrence (HLR) | Jake Bird
*= closer-by-committee
April 15, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Suffering his first loss, Jake Bird allowed a walk-off RBI single by Christian Pache, scoring the “place” runner in the bottom of the tenth. Nick Mears logged 1.1 clean frames, striking out one on 13 pitches (11 strikes – 84.6 Strike%) and producing one whiff. Jalen Beeks walked one and struck out one over two-thirds scoreless in the eighth. Justin Lawrence worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one.
Updated hierarchy: *Nick Mears | *Justin Lawrence (HLR) | Jake Bird
*= closer-by-committee
April 10, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Taking over a tied game in the top of the ninth against the top of Arizona’s lineup, Justin Lawrence suffered his first loss. His outing started with a lead-off walk, a high-leverage mortal sin. After recording two outs, he walked Christian Walker then allowed a go-ahead two-RBI double by Eugenio Suárez before an inning-ending fly-out. Lawrence threw 25 pitches (48 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. Nick Mears escaped with a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and a walk. Jake Bird was tagged with his first blown save, yielding two hits and an earned run in the seventh.
Updated hierarchy: *Justin Lawrence (HLR) | Nick Mears | Jake Bird
*= closer-by-committee
April 8, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Closing out a two-run win, Jake Bird stranded the bases loaded by inducing a game-ending fly-out, recording his first career save. Nick Mears received his first save chance, but it was a rough ride in high leverage. He allowed a hit, an earned run, and three walks while striking out one over two-thirds of the ninth for his third hold. Justin Lawrence notched his first hold, working a scoreless eighth while matching up with Arizona’s 4-5-6 lineup pocket, walking one and striking out two. He threw 18 pitches (55.6 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%). Peter Lambert logged two scoreless frames, walking one and striking out one while collecting his first win.
Updated hierarchy: *Justin Lawrence (HLR) | Nick Mears | Jake Bird
*= closer-by-committee
April 6, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Back in the saddle after a rough outing on Friday, Justin Lawrence took over with the bases loaded and two outs in the eighth. He induced a groundball which took a wicked hop, resulting in a two-RBI single scoring two of the three inherited runners. He rebounded quickly with an inning-ending groundout and a scoreless ninth, retiring the side in order while recording two strikeouts. He threw 25 pitches (64 Strike%) and produced two whiffs. Jalen Beeks suffered his first loss and first blown save, giving up a hit, two earned runs, and two walks along with letting his inherited runner score. Tyler Kinley got credit for his first hold despite allowing three hits and three earned runs. Jake Bird gave up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk in the seventh.
Hierarchy remains: Justin Lawrence | Nick Mears | Jake Bird
April 5, 2024
Colorado Rockies – A walk-off rally featuring a Ryan McMahon grand slam, handing Jalen Beeks his first win of the season. He let his only inherited runner score in the ninth while retiring two of three batters faced. Justin Lawrence turned in an inauspicious debut, allowing a hit to five of the six batters he faced, resulting in five runs against, four earned over one-third of the ninth. Nick Mears notched his second hold, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out two in a scoreless eighth. Jake Bird worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out two for his first hold. Peter Lambert logged two scoreless frames, scattering two hits and walking one while striking out two.
Updated Hierarchy: Justin Lawrence | Nick Mears | Jake Bird
March 30, 2024
Colorado Rockies – During a non-save outing, Justin Lawrence worked around a lead-off walk by inducing a ground ball double play and a game-ending fly out while facing Arizona’s 2-3-4 batters. He threw 15 pitches (8 strikes – 53.3 Strike%) without a whiff. Tyler Kinley tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one. Nick Mears retired all three batters faced in the seventh, stranding two runners and recording a strikeout for his first hold. Jalen Beeks issued two walks and recorded one out in a combined one-third of an inning for his first hold. Peter Lambert collected his first win, logging a scoreless combined innings, navigating around a hit and two walks.
March 26, 2024
Colorado Rockies – In Patrick Saunders’ bullpen preview for the Denver Post, he wrote Justin Lawrence is “penciled” in as the closer with Tyler Kinley projected as the primary set-up reliever in the eighth inning role. It’s been a camp competition for the ninth inning, but as it stands, plan on this adjustment in the leverage ladder unless Bud Black suggests otherwise.
March 25, 2024
Colorado Rockies – In a bullpen rife with opportunity, Tyler Kinley gave up three hits and an earned run in the sixth against the Brewers. After nine outings this spring, he owns a 1.32 WHIP with nine strikeouts versus four walks.
March 23, 2024
Colorado Rockies – With the closer competition still active, Tyler Kinley fired a clean sixth, striking out one. By my count, he threw seven pitches (85.7 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (42.9 SwStr%). He owns a 1.09 WHIP with nine strikeouts against four walks through 7.1 innings. Jake Bird retired the side in order in the seventh. Justin Lawrence worked a scoreless eighth, walking one and striking out one. He threw 13 pitches (6 strikes – 46.1 Strike%) with one whiff. He’s posted a 1.92 WHIP with 11 strikeouts versus four walks over 8.1 innings. Following their results in this contest, each relievers updated spring statistics appear as such:
- Justin Lawrence: 9 games, 8.1 innings, 11:4 K:BB, 17.5 K-BB%, 1.92 WHIP, 63.9 Strike%, 9 SwStr%
- Tyler Kinley: 8 games, 7.1 innings, 9:4 K:BB, 16.7 K-BB%, 1.09 WHIP, 59 Strike%, 14.2 SwStr%
March 23, 2024
Colorado Rockies – With both candidates slated to pitch on Saturday against the Reds, their results may sway how Bud Black structures his leverage ladder. Their respective results this spring so far:
- Justin Lawrence: 8 games, 7.1 innings, 10:3 K:BB, 19.4 K-BB%, 2.05 WHIP, 64.5 Strike%, 9.7 SwStr%
- Tyler Kinley: 7 games, 6.1 innings, 8:4 K:BB, 14.8 K-BB%, 1.26 WHIP, 58.3 Strike%, 13.2 SwStr%
March 19, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Still in competition for the “closer” role, Justin Lawrence completed a scoreless sixth, working around a hit and a walk. Following eight outings this spring, he owns a 2.05 WHIP with 10 strikeouts against three walks. In the other split-squad game, Tyler Kinley gave up three hits, three earned runs, and two walks while striking out one during one-third of the seventh. This moved his WHIP to 1.26 and he owns an 8:4 K:BB through 6.1 innings. From a fantasy lens, maybe there is no winner.
March 17, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Perhaps a pivotal day in the “closer” competition. During Saturday’s contest, Tyler Kinley retired the side in order in the sixth inning. He owns a 0.50 WHIP with seven strikeouts against two walks over six innings. Justin Lawrence went nuclear in one-third of the eighth. He allowed five hits, six runs (five earned), and a walk while striking out one. This spiked his WHIP to 2.05 with 10 strikeouts versus two walks through 6.1 innings this spring. Patrick Saunders, of the Denver Post, penned in his game recap, Kinley “continues to show why he’s likely to begin the season as the closer”.
March 12, 2024
Colorado Rockies – As each game passes, the “closer” competition heats up. On Tuesday, Tyler Kinley notched his first hold this spring, firing a clean seventh, striking out one. He threw 11 pitches (54.5 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He owns a 0.60 WHIP with seven strikeouts versus two walks over five innings. Justin Lawrence also worked a clean outing in the eighth, recording a strikeout for his second hold on 12 pitches (50 Strike%) with one whiff. He’s made six appearances this spring, posting a 1.17 WHIP with nine strikeouts against one walk through six innings.
March 10, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Another impressive outing this spring by Jaden Hill, identified by Closer Monkey as the “closer” of the future, turned in another scoreless outing on Sunday. He’s also featured by Thomas Harding of MLB.com as a “lights out reliever” in the making. He’s racked up six strikeouts this spring over four appearances allowing one hit (a solo home run) and two walks (0.75 WHIP).
March 6, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Updating the camp battle for “closer“, Patrick Saunders posted about their spring results so far in his game recap for The Denver Post. As of Wednesday’s game, here are their results:
- Tyler Kinley: 3 games, 3 IP, 4:2 K:BB, 0.67 WHIP
- Justin Lawrence: 4 games, 4 IP, 7:0 K:BB, 1.50 WHIP
February 29, 2024
Colorado Rockies – Thomas Harding, of MLB.com, published his Rockies roster projection which does not contain many surprises. It also does not provide insight on which reliever may be leading for the first save chance in 2024, leaving fantasy players with a choice between Tyler Kinley and Justin Lawrence, or perhaps what’s behind door number three?
February 22, 2024
Colorado Rockies – With Daniel Bard sidelined at Spring Training, it will be a camp competition for “closer” between Justin Lawrence and Tyler Kinley, covered by Thomas Harding of MLB.com.
September 17, 2023
Colorado Rockies – In game 2 of their doubleheader yesterday, Tyler Kinley pitched a scoreless 9th inning to pick up his 4th save of the season. Kinley recorded a pair of saves last week after Justin Lawrence vultured one and he seems to still be the clear option in the 9th for now. In game 1 of their doubleheader, Gavin Hollowell earned a very interesting save by coming on in the 7th inning with the tying run on deck and pitching the final 2.2 innings. Hollowell gave up a couple runs but was able to finish off the victory for his first save.
Hierarchy remains: Kinley | Lawrence | Bird.
September 13, 2023
Colorado Rockies – It looks like Justin Lawrence is back in the high-leverage mix for the Rockies, as he closed out Tuesday night’s win with his 11th save of the season. Tyler Kinley was likely down after two straight days of work, but we’ll keep an eye on this to see if it turns into a committee.
Updated hierarchy: Kinley | Lawrence | Bird.
September 6, 2023
Colorado Rockies – We thought Justin Lawrence might get a second straight night off after a heavy workload this past weekend. We were right, though it seems like Lawrence is going to see some extended time off, at least from the ninth inning. The man to replace him? None other than Tyler Kinley, who tossed a 1-2-3 inning for his second save in his last three appearances. Jake Bird pitched a perfect eighth yesterday and Matt Koch retired all three batters he faced in the seventh.
Updated hierarchy: Kinley | Bird | Koch.
September 4, 2023
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard was placed on the IL over the weekend; we’ll see if this means more high-leverage chances for Tyler Kinley, who was recently activated and got a save on Saturday.
Updated hierarchy: Lawrence | Koch | Kinley.
September 3, 2023
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies were up 3 heading into the 9th inning and called upon their closer Justin Lawrence to finish off the win. Lawrence walked the first batter he faced and then gave up a triple to cut the lead to two. He seemed to settle by getting the next two batters outs but then things really fell apart. Lawrence allowed another run to score on a wild pitch and loaded the bases with two walks and a hit by pitch. He was finally pulled and replaced by Tyler Kinley, who struck out the only batter he faced for his first save of the season. Lawrence has given up 10 earned runs over his last six appearances and his ERA is almost up to 4.00 on the season. We will see if the Rockies continue to send Lawrence out there is save chances or if they look at switching things up.
Hierarchy remains: Lawrence | Bard | Koch.
August 24, 2023
Colorado Rockies – Justin Lawrence’s rough stretch continued on Wednesday, as he suffered his third blown save over his last five appearances. Lawrence may have been a bit unlucky on Tuesday, but he’s now allowed eight earned runs over his last three outings. We’ll see just how long a leash the Rockies give Lawrence, but you have to imagine it’s getting shorter and shorter.
Updated hierarchy: Lawrence | Bard | Koch.
August 15, 2023
Colorado Rockies – Matt Koch continued his run of excellence with a scoreless 8th inning, earning the win when the Rockies rallied in the bottom half. The journeyman, who has posted a 1.64 ERA and 0.64 WHIP since his callup in late June, has made his way on to the hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Lawrence | Bard | Koch.
August 2, 2023
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies shipped Brad Hand to the Braves on Tuesday, which means Jake Bird returns to the hierarchy. One name to keep an eye on is Tyler Kinley, who was activated from the IL on Tuesday after recovering from Tommy John surgery. Kinley was one of the Rockies’ best relievers last season before his injury and may very well return to high-leverage situations this year.
Updated hierarchy: *Lawrence | Bard | Bird.
* = closer-by-committee
July 26, 2023
Colorado Rockies — With Pierce Johnson now with Atlanta, Brad Hand enters the Colorado hierarchy. Hand earned a seventh-inning hold on Tuesday ahead of what turned out to be a disastrous eighth inning for Justin Lawrence in which he blew a three-run lead against the top of the Nationals order.
Updated hierarchy: *Lawrence | Bard | Hand.
* = closer-by-committee
July 23, 2023
Colorado Rockies — After the Rockies took the lead in the top of the 9th, they sent Justin Lawrence out there for the bottom of the inning to close out the win. Lawrence responded with a scoreless inning for his 7th save of the season. Lawrence is riding a seven appearance scoreless streak and has recorded the last two saves for the Rockies. If Lawrence can keep this going, he will kick the asterisk.
Hierarchy remains: *Lawrence | Bard | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
July 8, 2023
Colorado Rockies — With a 3 run lead in the 8th inning the Rockies gave the ball to Justin Lawrence, which left the 9th inning for Daniel Bard. Bard converted for his first save on the year and his first since October of 2022. This wasn’t purely matchup based, as Lawrence got the 8-9-1 hitters while Bard got heart of the order. Bard started the year on the IL while dealing with anxiety, but has pitched very well since his return, sporting a tidy 1.76 ERA (although walking hitters at a much higher rate than usual). Bard was the presumptive closer to start the year, so if this signals a shift in how the Rockies view their bullpen he may be worth a speculative add if you’re chasing saves. Lawrence hasn’t done anything to really lose the job though, so we will leave him at the top of this committee for now.
Hierarchy remains: *Lawrence | Bard | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
July 1, 2023
Colorado Rockies — After being removed from the closers role a few weeks back, Pierce Johnson has rebounded nicely for the Rockies. Over his last 4 appearances he has a win, 2 holds and a clean save from last night, where he came in to protect a 3 run lead. It wasn’t the most difficult of save chances, but that does give him 13 total saves on the year, and he is consistently pitching in the late innings with leads, which is enough to get back into the hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: *Lawrence | Bard | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
June 22, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Jake Bird started Wednesday’s game, but only as a fill-in opener when an injury call-up couldn’t make it to Cincinnati in time. He should keep getting high-leverage looks for the Rockies.
Hierarchy remains: *Lawrence | Bard | Bird.
* = closer-by-committee
June 14, 2023
Colorado Rockies – Matt Carasiti nearly got his second Major League save 24 hours after securing his first Major League save, but he had to settle for a 10th-inning hold instead. After Carasiti allowed a leadoff homer that brought Boston within one, he induced a groundout and issued a walk. Bud Black then summoned the recently demoted Pierce Johnson to the mound. Johnson got the job done, working around a wild pitch and retiring both batters he faced for the save. Daniel Bard put together a perfect ninth inning against the top of the Boston order to send the game to extras, while Justin Lawrence got the Rockies out of a one-out jam in the seventh, stranding runners on second and third to keep the game tied.
Updated hierarchy: *Lawrence | Bard | Bird.
* = closer-by-committee
June 13, 2023
Colorado Rockies – Matt Carasiti was drafted by the Rockies in 2012. Then, in late 2022, he was re-signed by the Rockies to a minor league contract. In the 10 years in between, he had two cups of coffee in the bigs (2016 and 2019) amidst stops in eight other places, including the Tokyo Yakult Swallows and the Long Island Ducks. And yesterday, in his 8th outing of the season, he picked up his first Major League save, closing out a 10th-inning victory against the Red Sox. Congratulations, Matt – it was a long time coming.
Hierarchy remains: *Lawrence | Bird | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
June 10, 2023
Colorado Rockies — On Friday Bud Black made good on his promise to address the closer situation, kind of. He formally removed Pierce Johnson from the closer’s role, but wouldn’t name a consistent ninth inning arm going forward. The clear top pick is Justin Lawrence, who currently leads our committee, but if you believe Black will employ a committee going forward the other options are Jake Bird, who was named as a possible option, and Daniel Bard who has long time Colorado closing experience.
Updated hierarchy: *Lawrence | Bard | Hand.
* = closer-by-committee
June 9, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Pierce Johnson was given a save chance with a one-run lead and he blew it, giving up three runs on two walks and two hits. He threw 30 pitches in the ugly outing, which inflated his ERA to 7.50. After the game, manager Bud Black said he would “address” the closer situation. We’ve already taken Johnson out of the role and we have to imagine Black is intending to do the same. We’ll slide Johnson down in anticipation that a committee led by Justin Lawrence will take over. Keep an eye on Daniel Bard and Brad Hand, too.
Updated hierarchy: *Lawrence | Bard | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
June 8, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Justin Lawrence was used as a fireman on Wednesday, coming in with two on in the seventh with a one-run lead. When he escaped that jam, he stayed in for the eighth, but gave up the go-ahead run on a squeeze bunt. If Lawrence keeps getting summoned in high-leverage spots before the ninth, his asterisk could be a permanent appendage.
Hierarchy remains: *Lawrence | Johnson | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
June 4, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Justin Lawrence picked up his second straight save and this was a little more conventional. Lawrence came on to get the last out of the 8th inning with the Rockies up 3 and stuck around to pitch the 9th and close out the win. Pierce Johnson has really struggled recently ( 7 earned runs over his last 4 appearances) and since Lawrence got the save chance over him yesterday, we will move Lawrence to the head of this committee. We will see if Lawrence and his devastating sweeper can take over this job for good or if Johnson will stay in the mix.
Hierarchy remains: *Lawrence | Johnson | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
June 3, 2023
Colorado Rockies — The Vulture Save Watch predicted that Justin Lawrence would get the save last night, and that’s what happened, although it wasn’t a very conventional. Colorado entered the 9th with a 5 run lead, but after Daniel Bard loaded the bases with 2 outs they went to Lawrence. As all bullpen junkies know rule 9.19 says that a save is recorded when a pitcher (1) finishes the game, (2) is not the winning pitcher and (3) meets one of the “save criteria” the second of which is entering the game, regardless of score, with the tying run either on base, at bat or on deck. Congratulations to the vulture save watch and to Justin Lawrence for his 5 run lead, 1 batter save.
Hierarchy remains: *Johnson | Lawrence | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
June 2, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Pierce Johnson failed to protect the Rockies’ lead Thursday, yielding two runs to blow the save and take the loss, leaving him with a 6.85 ERA and 1.88 WHIP. Yikes. How long can this go on? Former closer Daniel Bard has been awesome this year in limited action (0.57 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 11 Ks over 15 IP), and as soon as he’s ready for more higher leverage work, you’d have to think a change is coming.
Hierarchy remains: *Johnson | Lawrence | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
May 26, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Pierce Johnson had a nightmare appearance Thursday, recording just two outs and yielding four runs on four hits (two HRs) and a walk. He has 10 saves but his ERA is now 6.59 with an ugly 1.89 WHIP. Yeesh. Justin Lawrence looms as an option for saves, but don’t sleep on Daniel Bard, who continues to pitch in lower leverage but has been impressive (0.69 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 10 Ks in 13.0 IP).
Hierarchy remains: *Johnson | Lawrence | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
May 11, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Pierce Johnson picked up his sixth save of the season on Wednesday, and Justin Lawrence seems to be his full-time setup man at this point. One more save for Johnson and we’ll probably pull his asterisk.
Updated hierarchy: *Johnson | Lawrence | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
May 7, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Pierce Johnson pitched a scoreless 9th inning with a pair of strikeouts for his 5th save of the season. Daniel Bard still has not allowed a run since returning but continues to be used in low-leverage situations. Johnson is clearly the guy to own right now but we will see if Bard can work his way back to save situations or if Johnson will run away with the job.
Hierarchy remains: *Johnson | Bard | Lawrence.
* = closer-by-committee
May 4, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Daniel Bard pitched in the seventh on Wednesday with a four-run lead, and that’s enough for us to swap him with Pierce Johnson at the top of the Colorado closer committee. Justin Lawrence (four holds, 1.65 ERA) and lefty Brent Suter are also in the mix, along with Bard and Brad Hand.
Updated hierarchy: *Johnson | Bard | Lawrence.
* = closer-by-committee
May 3, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Save chances have been few and far between for the Rockies, but when they got one last night it went to Pierce Johnson, who recorded his fourth save of the season. Daniel Bard has only pitched four times since his return from the injured list, and while he has allowed just one hit in 4.1 scoreless innings, didn’t seem to be available last night with a lead to protect. We’ll slap an asterisk on this hierarchy for now and hope for some more clarity on this bullpen, but Johnson appears to be the guy to own in Colorado right now.
Updated hierarchy: *Bard | Johnson | Hand.
* = closer-by-committee
April 20, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Daniel Bard returned from the injured list and had an uneventful eighth inning with the Rockies up 11. He should immediately resume his role as Colorado’s regular closer.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Johnson | Hand.
April 7, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Pierce Johnson has the first two saves for the Rockies this season, including one Thursday night against the Nationals. Another save for Johnson could lead us to drop the asterisk here, too, at least until Daniel Bard, who is working on his mechanics during side sessions but is not yet ready for game action, returns.
Hierarchy remains: *Johnson | Hand | Lamet.
* = closer-by-committee
April 1, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Colorado held a 4 run lead last night, so we did get to see the committee in action. Brad Hand took the 8th inning and surrendered a run, leaving a save situation for Pierce Johnson. Johnson struck out 2 on the way to his first career save. As with all committees, this one will likely be flexible, but Johnson seems to have the inside track for now.
Hierarchy remains: *Johnson | Hand | Lamet.
* = closer-by-committee
March 31, 2023
Colorado Rockies — After placing Daniel Bard on the injured list so he can deal with anxiety issues, the Rockies held a 5-run lead on Opening Day, so committee leaders Pierce Johnson and Brad Hand were not used. This situation is very fluid so stay tuned.
Hierarchy remains: *Johnson | Hand | Lamet.
* = closer-by-committee
March 30, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Closer Daniel Bard was placed on the injured list Thursday because of anxiety issues. In his place, expect Pierce Johnson and Brad Hand to handle save chances. Dinelson Lamet slides into the hierarchy, too, and could factor in.
Updated hierarchy: *Johnson | Hand | Lamet.
* = closer-by-committee
March 16, 2023
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard remains as the Rockies’ closer, but the rest of the bullpen is intriguing with newcomers Pierce Johnson and Brad Hand expected to be in the late-innings mix. Justin Lawrence is also someone that has a good chance to pitch in high-leverage spots. One name to keep an eye on is Tyler Kinley, who was having a terrific season in 2022 before suffering a season-ending injury. He is expected to return midseason.
Starting 2023 hierarchy: Bard | Johnson | Hand.
Holds candidates: Johnson, Hand, Lawrence, Brent Suter.
October 4, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Justin Lawrence got his first save of the season, locking down a 1-run victory. Daniel Bard had pitched two innings on Sunday and got the day off.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Lamet | Lawrence.
September 28, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Carlos Estevez was placed on the COVID IL Tuesday. Bud Black said that Estevez has flu-like symptoms and that he hopes that Estevez will bounce back quickly.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Lamet | Bird.
August 28, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Alex Colome has been activated from the IL, while Lucas Gilbreath has been placed on the IL with a left elbow strain.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Estevez | Colome.
August 14, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Alex Colome has been placed on the IL. Lucas Gilbreath will slide into Colome’s spot in the hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Estevez | Gilbreath.
August 13, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard threw 30 pitches on Thursday which earned him a night off on Friday. This left the save chance to Carlos Estevez, who converted for his second of the year. Daniel Bard is in no danger of losing his job, but lately it has been Estevez getting the high leverage chances over Alex Colome. This is enough to put him first in line for the Rockies.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Estevez | Colome.
July 15, 2022
Colorado Rockies – As an astute follower of the Vulture Save Watch, this is news you already know since he was in your lineup. But for those who didn’t heed the advice… Carlos Estevez pitched a scoreless ninth Thursday for his first save. Daniel Bard had gone in three of four, and Alex Colome battled hamstring cramps earlier this week and is day to day.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Colome | Estevez.
July 13, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Alex Colome left last night’s game in the middle of the eighth inning with a hamstring cramp. The Rockies will know more today on the severity of Colome’s injury.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Colome | Estevez.
July 9, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Vulture Save Watch readers knew that Daniel Bard had pitched in two straight games, so the 9th inning fell to Alex Colome. He gave up a run, but successfully converted the save chance. Bard should be back in action today.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Colome | Estevez.
June 15, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Tyler Kinley is on the IL with an elbow injury and unfortunately the prognosis isn’t good, with Tommy John surgery a possibility. We’ll add Carlos Estevez back to the hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Colome | Estevez.
June 10, 2022
Colorado Rockies – With Daniel Bard, Alex Colome, and Tyler Kinley all having pitched in two straight games, it wasn’t clear who the Rockies would go with if they had a lead in the 9th, but it turns out that of the group, Colome was apparently the most ready for a third straight day. The veteran’s durability meant he was able to pick up his third save of the season.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Colome | Kinley.
June 8, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Tyler Kinley pitched a scoreless seventh on Tuesday to earn his team-leading 10th hold of the season and lower his ERA to 0.78.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Colome | Kinley.
April 24, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Alex Colome made things interesting in the 9th inning yesterday but ultimately was able to lock down his second save. Daniel Bard was unavailable yesterday, but it wasn’t due to usage since he hasn’t pitched since Tuesday. We will keep an eye on this and see if Bard will miss additional time.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Colome | Kinley.
April 19, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Alex Colome picked up his first save of the season on Monday, and through 10 games, the surprising Rockies have the best bullpen ERA (1.88) in baseball. Daniel Bard’s absence was curious, but given his early success and the lack of any postgame notes, we’re assuming for now that the Rockies wanted to give the 36-year-old righty two consecutive days off after pitching him in 5 of their first 8 games. If Colome (or Carlos Estevez) picks up another save, however, the committee tag will return.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Colome | Estevez.
April 17, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard pitched a scoreless 9th last night for his 4th save of the season. Neither Alex Colome nor Carlos Estevez has any saves so far and that’s enough to kick the committee tag here. A fun note about the Rockies so far is that all eight of their games have resulted in saves.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Colome | Estevez.
April 13, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard bounced back from Monday’s blown save by closing out Tuesday’s win. Bard continues to look like the guy to own in Colorado. Carlos Estevez pitched the eighth on Tuesday, as Alex Colome got the day off after throwing 49 pitches over the past three games.
Hierarchy remains: *Bard | Colome | Estevez.
* = closer-by-committee
April 12, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Ashton Goudeau pitched the 10th inning in Colorado’s win on Monday, earning his first career save. The rest of the hierarchy had already appeared earlier in the game, so this doesn’t figure to amount to much.
Hierarchy remains: *Bard | Colome | Estevez.
* = closer-by-committee
April 11, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Ty Blach, who hadn’t pitched in the bigs since 2019, earned the rarely-seen four-inning save for the Rockies on Sunday, posting four scoreless frames — at home against the hard-hitting Dodgers, no less. Welcome back to the bigs, Ty!
Hierarchy remains: *Bard | Colome | Estevez.
* = closer-by-committee
April 10, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard struck out the side in a perfect 9th inning to record the Rockies’ first save of the season. Alex Colome struggled in the 8th inning ahead of Bard and manager Bud Black acknowledged he would prefer Colome to pitch at a faster pace. Bard moves to the head of the committee and at least one beat writer thinks Bard will be the closer going forward. We are a little skeptical given Bard’s struggles in the role last year, but if he can convert a couple more saves early in the season, he will kick the asterisk.
Updated hierarchy: *Bard | Colome | Estevez
*= closer-by-committee
April 4, 2022
Colorado Rockies – When the Rockies signed Alex Colome, it seemed on that bringing in an established closer on a guaranteed contract would establish that there’s one closing candidate in Colorado. That’s not necessarily true, according to manager Bud Black. Colome, Daniel Bard and Carlos Estevez are seen as strong late-inning options. He says he the team will have a “guy in mind” for the ninth once the season begins, but until it does, let’s go ahead and apply the committee tag.
Updated hierarchy: Colome* | Bard | Estevez
*= closer-by-committee
March 24, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Alex Colome’s solid groundball rate should make him a fair candidate to find closing success at Coors Field. If he runs into trouble, he’ll be backed up by last year’s main (and mediocre) options: Carlos Estevez and Daniel Bard.
Starting 2022 hierarchy: Colome | Estevez | Bard.
Holds candidates: Estevez, Bard, Robert Stephenson.
September 16, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Robert Stephenson’s first outing in eight days was a tenth-inning save, the second of his career (you know we covered the first). Stephenson’s save also gives us the opportunity to recognize that Daniel Bard has fallen out of the hierarchy, with Jhoulys Chacin locking down the eighth and Tyler Kinley owning the seventh.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Chacin | Kinley.
August 28, 2021
Colorado Rockies – We warned you on Thursday and alerted you last night; Daniel Bard has been replaced by Carlos Estevez — at least for now — in Colorado.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Bard | Chacin.
August 27, 2021
Colorado Rockies – As we noted on Wednesday, Daniel Bard’s recent struggles were getting too big to ignore. Bard had a long talk with manager Bud Black before today’s game, and when the Rockies had a 1 run over the Dodgers lead going into the late innings, Bard took the 8th and Carlos Estevez got the 9th for his 3rd save on the year. Estevez wasn’t perfect, but he struck out the side and only gave up a leadoff single. Bard may work through this slump, but for now Estevez is the top choice in Colorado.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Bard | Chacin.
August 26, 2021
Colorado Rockies — With a three-run homer that would have been an out in any stadium but Wrigley, Daniel Bard blew his eighth save of the year and put his position as Colorado’s closer in serious danger. The Rockies came back to win the game, but Bud Black said the coaching staff will talk over what to do going into Thursday’s off day. We’d give Carlos Estevez (two saves, 8.74 K/9, 4.14 FIP) an edge over Jhoulys Chacin (no career saves, 6.89 K/9, 4.76 FIP) if you’re looking to speculate in the meantime.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Estevez | Chacin.
July 31, 2021
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies held on to their closer Daniel Bard at the trade deadline, but they did trade away their set-up man, Mychal Givens. Carlos Estevez and former starter Jhoulys Chacin should see more time in the later innings with Givens gone.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Estevez | Chacin.
July 24, 2021
Colorado Rockies — Daniel Bard wasn’t able to hold a one-run lead in the ninth, sending Friday’s game to extra innings. When Colorado scored three in the top of the tenth, they turned to Lucas Gilbreath to close, and he got the job done for his first career save. Gilbreath is having an up and down rookie season and won’t be cracking the hierarchy anytime soon.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Givens | Estevez.
July 7, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Mychal Givens has been activated from the injured list and will move right back into high-leverage work for the Rockies.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Givens | Estevez.
June 18, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Mychal Givens has a lower back strain and was placed on the IL on Thursday.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Estevez | Kinley.
May 25, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard got the night off on Monday after pitching two straight, and the Rockies went to Carlos Estevez to hold a one-run lead in the 9th. Estevez converted, which pushes him up to the handcuff spot for Colorado.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Estevez | Givens.
May 3, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Having been used sparingly in recent weeks, the Rockies went to closer Daniel Bard in a tie game in the 8th inning on Sunday. Bard seemed to have good stuff, hitting 99 on the gun, but the result was a disastrous outing that ballooned his ERA to 9.00. After the game, Bard said he had to look at sequencing and/or whether he’s tipping pitches, but we have to think that he’s on shaky ground right now. Mychal Givens is the likely handcuff.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Givens | Stephenson.
April 28, 2021
Colorado Rockies – After Daniel Bard blew a save in the ninth inning, Carlos Estevez came on in the 10th to earn the save after Colorado retook the lead in the top half of the frame. Estevez hasn’t really factored into the Rockies’ high-leverage plans, but neither has Yency Almonte, who was curiously absent from last night’s action. Robert Stephenson has put together five straight scoreless outings, and while he doesn’t have a hold yet, he’s probably a better option than Almonte is right now.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Givens | Stephenson.
April 1, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Scott Oberg will be out indefinitely after undergoing surgery to remove blood clots. Yency Almonte should see more time in the later innings with Oberg sidelined.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Givens | Almonte.
March 13, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Bud Black said that Daniel Bard will start the season as the Rockies’ closer. Scott Oberg made his spring debut on Friday, and the plan is to have him pitch in eight different outings and see how he feels after each one. That will determine whether he begins the season on the active roster. We’ll keep him in the hierarchy for now and see how he progresses through the rest of March.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Givens | Oberg.
March 5, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Scott Oberg is healthy again, which is good news for a bullpen that posted a 6.77 ERA last year. Oberg and Daniel Bard are the two guys competing for the ninth inning. Mychal Givens closed in Baltimore but struggled when he arrived in Denver via trade last year. Yency Almonte wasn’t bad last year and may see some more high-leverage looks.
Starting 2021 hierarchy: Oberg | Bard | Givens.
Holds candidates: Bard, Givens, Almonte.
September 25, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Jairo Diaz picked up his fourth save of the season Thursday, but only because Daniel Bard and Mychal Givens had already pitched. Bard threw 2.2 innings to earn the win. Diaz (8.05 ERA) hadn’t pitched in a Rockies win since Aug. 26, suggesting he’s far away from the ninth-inning job, especially with only a few days to go in the season.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Givens | Almonte.
September 21, 2020
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies asked Daniel Bard to get the last four outs of the game on Sunday, but a few hits and walks pushed his pitch count up, and so Mychal Givens came on for the final hitter, needing just one pitch to notch his first save of the year. Bard should still be the closer for the season’s final week.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Givens | Almonte.
September 19, 2020
Colorado Rockies — With four runs allowed in two-thirds of an inning on Friday, Wade Davis saw his ERA balloon to 20.77. At this rate, we can’t see Davis getting a save chance anytime soon.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Givens | Almonte.
September 13, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Wade Davis has been activated from the injured list. Daniel Bard has been solid as the closer, converting all six of his chances, and Davis will not take his job at this point. However, the Rockies bullpen as a whole has struggled this year so Davis could see some late-inning action pretty quickly if he can pitch well.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Givens | Davis.
September 8, 2020
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies held the Padres scoreless without a run through 8 innings via Kyle Freeland, Yency Almonte, and Mychel Givens, but Carlos Estevez couldn’t keep the game scoreless, allowing hits to the first two hitters he faced. We suspect that Estevez, who now has an ERA of 6.41, has likely fallen down the hierarchy given his struggles in recent weeks.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Givens | Almonte.
September 6, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard struck out a pair in a scoreless inning yesterday to pick up his 5th save of the season. Bard has now recorded the last two Rockies’ saves and four of the last five and that is enough to kick the committee tag.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Estevez | Givens.
August 31, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Jairo Diaz’s struggles continued, as he allowed 3 runs in a lopsided loss to the Padres. The recently-acquired Mychal Givens should see some action in the late innings here.
Updated hierarchy: *Bard | Estevez | Givens.
* = closer-by-committee
August 27, 2020
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies were cruising with a 5 run lead going into the 9th, but when Tyler Kinley allowed the first two batters to reach base, he was pulled for vulture save watch pick Jairo Diaz. Diaz got two quick outs (and let an inherited runner score) before the wheels really came off. A hit batsman and two singles left the tying run on third, and saw Diaz pulled for Jeff Hoffman. Hoffman walked the bases loaded, but got a strikeout to end the game and earn his first career save. Hoffman is not typically a late inning arm for the Rockies, and this was a game where a couple of their top arms were unavailable, so we don’t see Hoffman cracking the hierarchy anytime soon.
Hierarchy remains: *Bard | Estevez | Diaz.
* = closer-by-committee
August 25, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Protecting a one-run lead from the 5th inning onward, the Rockies first tapped Carlos Estevez to get out of a sticky situation in the 7th, leaving him in for the 8th after he escaped the jam. That left the 9th to Daniel Bard, who converted the save, his second of the season. Jairo Diaz did not appear, so it seems Bard and Estevez have jumped him in this committee.
Updated hierarchy: *Bard | Estevez | Diaz.
* = closer-by-committee
August 17, 2020
Colorado Rockies – After a rocky outing from Jairo Diaz on Sunday — Carlos Estevez bailed him out for his first save of the year — Bud Black said he would no longer have a designated 9th inning reliever. We were already treating this as a committee, but now that we’ve gotten confirmation, look for Diaz, Estevez, and Daniel Bard to share opportunities.
Updated hierarchy: *Diaz | Estevez | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
August 12, 2020
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies seemingly had Tuesday’s game locked up after a six-run eighth inning spotted them an 8-2 lead, but Phillip Diehl and Jairo Diaz could only muster one out apiece as Arizona cut the lead to 8-7. That set the stage for Daniel Bard to come in and strike out Stephen Vogt to strand two runners and earn his first save since June 5, 2011, when Bard was with the Red Sox.
Hierarchy remains: *Diaz | Estevez | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
August 5, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Yency Almonte needed just one pitch to induce an inning-ending double play and preserve a 5-2 lead in Tuesday’s eighth inning. He came back out for the ninth and got another double play en route to collecting his first big-league save. Both Jairo Diaz and Carlos Estevez were unavailable, and manager Bud Black wanted to avoid using Daniel Bard unless it was absolutely necessary, which paved the way for Almonte’s opportunity.
Hierarchy remains: *Diaz | Estevez | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
August 3, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Wade Davis was placed on the 10-day IL Sunday with a right shoulder strain. Jairo Diaz picked up the 1-out save in his absence, following a somewhat shaky inning of work from Carlos Estevez, who allowed three inherited runners to score in the 8th and an additional run in the 9th. Still, he’s probably second to Diaz in this hierarchy. With this shakeup, we’d also like to tip our cap to Daniel Bard, who claims the record for “longest stretches between appearances on a Closer Monkey hierarchy,” as we’re adding him at 2nd in line. Bard last appeared on a hierarchy in the November 2011 — the fifth month of this site’s existence — when he was briefly elevated to the closer role for the Red Sox (behind him: Alfredo Aceves and Franklin Morales) in the short period between the departure of Jonathan Papelbon and the signing of Mark Melancon. Bard would shift to the rotation soon after, and though the Sox did put him back in the bullpen before releasing him — and while he had short minor league stints with four other teams (as well as a career eulogy on one of our All Star Break shitposts) — he never made it back to a hierarchy. Until now. A heartfelt congratulations, Daniel.
Updated hierarchy: *Diaz | Estevez | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
August 2, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Wade Davis was placed on the 10-day IL Sunday with a right shoulder strain. We expect Jairo Diaz and Carlos Estevez to be the early frontrunners for the ninth inning.
Updated hierarchy: *Diaz | Estevez | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
July 26, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Wade Davis gave up a run but was still able to record his first save of the season. However, the biggest story of the night was Daniel Bard. Pitching in the majors for the first time in a long time, Bard threw 1.1 scoreless innings to pick up the win. We aren’t quite ready to put Bard on the hierarchy yet, but he did hit 99 on the radar gun.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Diaz | Estevez.
July 24, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Scott Oberg was a popular pick for teams looking to bet against Wade Davis making it all the way through the season as the Rockies’ closer. However, Oberg himself is beginning the shortened season on the IL with a lower back strain. Bud Black expressed confidence that he could count on both Jairo Diaz and Carlos Estevez in the late innings.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Diaz | Estevez.
February 26, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Going into spring training, Bud Black would like to see Wade Davis in the closer’s role, but he is certain to be on a short leash given his woeful 2019 campaign. While some of that could be chalked up to Davis pitching through injuries, it’s hard to ignore a final ERA over 8. Scott Oberg was quite effective for most of the year, but ended the season with surgery to fix a blood clot in his arm. Oberg is healthy for spring training and looks to be a top setup option for the Rockies. Jairo Diaz finished the season in the closers role, and will likely be a late-inning arm for Colorado this season as well. Veterans Jake McGee and Bryan Shaw, both of whom have closing experience, will also be in the mix. A dark horse for saves later in the year is Carlos Estevez. Estevez has a triple-digit fastball and is a low-cost reliever with team control through 2022; if the Rockies sell at some point he could ascend to the closer’s role. For now we trust Black when he says he wants Davis as the closer, but expect some volatility from the Rockies as they compete in a tough division.
Starting 2020 hierarchy: Davis | Oberg | Diaz.
Holds candidates: Oberg, Diaz, McGee, Estevez, Shaw.
September 25, 2019
Colorado Rockies – The Colorado Rockies and San Francisco Giants set a major league record by using a combined 25 pitchers on Tuesday. The 25th pitcher of the night was Bryan Shaw and he pitched a scoreless bottom of the 16th for his first save of the season. Jairo Diaz and Carlos Estevez were two of the other 24 pitchers used earlier in the game.
Hierarchy remains: Diaz | Estevez | Shaw.
September 15, 2019
Colorado Rockies – Jesus Tinoco recorded his first career save yesterday as the Rockies rested both Jairo Diaz and Carlos Estevez. This was extrmely surprising as Tinoco has only one hold this season and before yesterday had given up at least one earned run in 5 straight appearances and and 7 of his last 8.
Hierarchy remains: Diaz | Estevez | Shaw.
September 11, 2019
Colorado Rockies – Jairo Diaz picked up a 2-inning save on Tuesday and clearly Bud Black’s go-to guy in Colorado. We’ll kick away his asterisk.
Updated hierarchy: Diaz | Estevez | Shaw.
September 7, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Jairo Diaz earned his first save since taking over as head of the Rockies’ closer committee, and is the guy to own for the rest of the season in Colorado.
Hierarchy remains: *Diaz | Estevez | Shaw.
* = closer-by-committee
August 27, 2019
Colorado Rockies – Jairo Diaz got the first Rockies save chance since the demotion of Wade Davis and promptly gave up the game-tying run. The Rockies walked off in the bottom half of the inning, though, so this wasn’t a total failure for Diaz. We’ll bump him to the top of the committee and see what the Rockies do next.
Updated hierarchy: *Diaz | Estevez | Shaw.
* = closer-by-committee
August 20, 2019
Colorado Rockies – Summoned in a tie game in the 8th inning, Wade Davis gave up 3 earned runs for the second straight night. Jake McGee got the final out of the inning. We’re bumping Davis from this hierarchy temporarily until he has a good outing.
Updated hierarchy: *Estevez | Diaz | Shaw.
* = closer-by-committee
August 19, 2019
Colorado Rockies – On Sunday morning, the Rockies placed Scott Oberg on the IL with a blood clot in his arm — reportedly, his season is over — and it took all of several hours for his replacement, Wade Davis, to blow the first subsequent Rockies save chance. We figured Davis would get the first look, but what happens now is anyone’s guess. Jake McGee, Carlos Estevez, and Bryan Shaw have all closed at various points in their career; of those three, only Estevez has pitched well as of late. Jairo Diaz could also get a look, as he’s got a high strikeout rate. We’ll slide Estevez to the top of the committee for now with the caveat that this is an educated guess at best. Complicating matters is that Estevez has gone three innings in the last two days and won’t pitch today; if someone else has success then they could easily vault him.
Updated hierarchy: *Estevez | Diaz | Davis.
* = closer-by-committee
August 18, 2019
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies placed Scott Oberg on the IL with a blood clot in his arm. It seems likely that Wade Davis will return to the closer role in Oberg’s absence, though Bryan Shaw or Jake McGee could also factor in.
Updated hierarchy: *Davis | Shaw | McGee
* = closer-by-committee
August 3, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Bud Black announced that Scott Oberg will take over as closer “for the time being,” and that Wade Davis will move to the middle innings. Oberg got his first opportunity in his new role last night, coming in to protect a one-run lead. He gave up a pair of singles before inducing a game-ending double play to earn his fourth save on the year. Oberg has been excellent this year, including as a fill-in closer when Davis injured his oblique. Davis has had a frustrating year, posting a remarkable 0.68 ERA on the road but an ugly 11.29 at Coors Field, with a five-run meltdown on Wednesday serving as the last straw.
Updated hierarchy: Oberg | Shaw | Davis.
August 2, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Bud Black announced today that Scott Oberg will take over as closer “for the time being.” Black said that Wade Davis will move to the middle innings.
Updated hierarchy: Oberg | Shaw | Davis.
August 1, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis pitched at home on Wednesday, so you know what happened next: two dingers and five earned runs. Davis’s splits continue to be otherworldly, and it’s anyone’s guess how long Bud Black can keep running him out there instead of Scott Oberg.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
July 26, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis has struggled recently, but he looked sharp Thursday against the Nationals in DC, striking out the side while allowing a lone walk to record the save. It’s very simple for fantasy owners: start Davis on the road (0.68 ERA, .178 BAA, 7 saves) and absolutely avoid him at Coors Field (0-4, 9.53 ERA, .301 BAA). Scott Oberg (1.65 ERA, 1.00 WHIP), who has been good everywhere, looms as a viable replacement for Davis in the ninth.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
July 17, 2019
Colorado Rockies — With four straight scoreless outings, things had been quiet on the Wade Davis beat. Maybe too quiet. Last night, the Rockies rallied from three down against Will Smith to tie the score — then brought in Davis, who gave it all back and then some. Maybe Davis should pitch exclusively on the road, where his ERA (0.79) is 12 times better than at Coors Field (9.53).
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 30, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis struck out a pair in a perfect ninth inning yesterday to pick up the save. Davis threw nine of his twelve pitches for strikes and it was especially encouraging because the game was in Colorado, where he has really struggled this year. It’s worth noting that Scott Oberg was unavailable on Saturday night. We will see what the Rockies do next but yesterday’s appearance could allow Davis to hold off Oberg at least for now.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 29, 2019
Colorado Rockies — After Thursday’s brutal outing, Bud Black has said that the Rockies are “contemplating a few things” with regards to Wade Davis’ role in the bullpen, specifically pointing to his walk rate as a concern. Meanwhile, Scott Oberg’s excellent year continued last night, as he pitched a scoreless ninth in a four-run game. It is possible that Davis still has the closer’s role, as he would have been unavailable yesterday after having pitched in back-to-back games and three of the last four. We told you yesterday that Scott Oberg was a good speculative add; today he looks like a must get, although he is likely unavailable today after pitching three in a row and five of the last six.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 28, 2019
Colorado Rockies — It was a rough night for Wade Davis, who entered a tie game in the ninth and allowed four runs on an RBI single and a three-run blast. Davis now has a 6.00 ERA and a 1.83 WHIP. Yuck! Stash Scott Oberg if you haven’t already. For what it’s worth, manager Bud Black pointed to Davis’s resume and suggested that he’ll be fine.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 25, 2019
Colorado Rockies – Wade Davis pitched a 1-2-3 inning last night for his second save since returning from the IL, but count us among those who are still concerned about his recent performance. Since returning, he’s posted a 9.82 ERA, a 2.32 WHIP over 7.1 innings, and he has struck out six batters against five walks. Perhaps most concerning of all is that his velocity is down, suggesting that his poor performance isn’t just bad luck. Scott Oberg might be worth a roster spot if he’s available in your league.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 21, 2019
Colorado Rockies — When the Rockies took the lead in the tenth inning on Thursday, manager Bud Black stuck with Scott Oberg for a second inning, and he slammed the door to earn the win. Where was struggling Wade Davis? Apparently unavailable, which Black mentioned before stressing that Oberg is not the new closer. Davis has allowed runs in every appearance since returning from the IL, and has a WHIP (1.80) more than 50 points higher than Hyun-Jin Ryu’s ERA (1.26)! Okay, that might not be fair — Ryu is nasty. Anyway, this Oberg-Davis situation bears watching, so stay tuned.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 20, 2019
Colorado Rockies – The struggling Wade Davis got a chance to right the ship on Wednesday when he entered the ninth inning with a three-run lead. He struck out the first batter he faced before allowing a solo home run. Davis bounced back with another strikeout and then stranded a runner at second to end the game, but he has now allowed an earned run in four straight appearances. Meanwhile, Scott Oberg cruised through 1.2 innings of work to get the ball to Davis. The Rockies pay Davis a lot of money to close games, but if he keeps giving up runs they soon could find it more productive to pay him a lot of money to watch Oberg close games instead.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 17, 2019
Colorado Rockies – The Padres managed to win a game on Sunday in which their starter allowed 9 runs in 1.1 innings, and it was in part due to another brutal outing from Wade Davis, who has now allowed 7 earned runs in 4.1 innings since returning from the IL. Scott Oberg, meanwhile, continues to cruise along with a 1.67 ERA. Davis could be on thin ice.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 8, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis returned from the IL to pitch the ninth inning in a four-run game. He gave up a pair of hits, but no runs. Davis returns right back to the top of this hierarchy, while Scott Oberg and Bryan Shaw will slide back to their earlier spots.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 7, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis is feeling good and could return to action as early as this weekend. Scott Oberg nailed down his third save Thursday and has filled in admirably, but will give the job back to Davis when the time comes.
Hierarchy remains: Oberg | Shaw | Estevez.
June 2, 2019
Colorado Rockies — After a ninth-inning error extended the game and a double cut the Rockies lead to two, Scott Oberg was summoned for the last out of the game. He was able to induce a ground out from the only batter he faced to pick up his second save of the season. Meanwhile, Wade Davis had no problems after his bullpen session, which was the first since his injury. Although there is no exact timetable for his return, it should be relatively soon barring any setbacks.
Hierarchy remains: Oberg | Shaw | Estevez.
June 1, 2019
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies won in a blowout last night, but the news from the bullpen is that Wade Davis is close to returning. He has started a throwing program and threw a bullpen session. Davis will resume closing for the Rockies once he returns, so it’s time to squeeze any last value out of Scott Oberg and company.
Hierarchy remains: Oberg | Shaw | Estevez.
May 29, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Chad Bettis retired three of the four hitters he faced in the eighth inning to keep the Rockies ahead, 4-2. When Colorado added two more runs in the ninth, Bettis returned to the hill and used a 1-2-3 inning to earn his first career save. Bettis, who began the year in the rotation, has turned in six scoreless outings over his last seven appearances out of the bullpen. He may be in line for more holds, especially multi-inning holds, if he continues to pitch well. He certainly came through for a tired Rockies bullpen on Tuesday, with Scott Oberg and Bryan Shaw desperately needing an off day.
Hierarchy remains: Oberg | Shaw | Estevez.
May 23, 2019
Colorado Rockies — As we told you yesterday, Scott Oberg will fill in as the Rockies’ closer while Wade Davis recovers from an oblique injury. Davis’s injury is not believed to be severe.
Updated hierarchy: Oberg | Shaw | Estevez.
May 22, 2019
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies placed Wade Davis on the IL with an oblique strain. Look for Scott Oberg to close in his place for the time being.
Updated hierarchy: Oberg | Shaw | Estevez.
May 13, 2019
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies were hoping that a struggling Seunghwan Oh could close out a 7-run blowout on Sunday, but the righty struggled, and needed Scott Oberg’s help to finish out the game. Oh now has a 10.05 ERA on the year, and we’d expect the Rockies to give more chances to Bryan Shaw and Carlos Estevez until Oh returns to form.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
February 21, 2019
Colorado Rockies – With Adam Ottavino and his Bambino-baffling slider off to the Bronx, the Rockies will rely on veterans like Scott Oberg, Seunghwan Oh, and Bryan Shaw to get the ball to $18 million closer Wade Davis. Mike Dunn and Jake McGee are still around too, hoping to move past their disappointing 2018 seasons and finally give Colorado a bullpen that produces in line with its high price tag.
Starting 2019 hierarchy: Davis | Oberg | Oh.
Holds candidates: Oberg, Oh, Shaw, Chris Rusin.
September 28, 2018
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies, Dodgers, and Cardinals are fighting for two available playoff spots (well, the Cardinals have a shot at only one of them, as either the Cubs or Brewers will win the NL Central). Expect the next three games to be pseudo-playoff games, featuring the team’s best bullpen arms. So a rested Wade Davis, who nabbed a save Thursday night, may be used plenty this weekend for the Rockies.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
September 6, 2018
Colorado Rockies — There was only one vulture save option on the board yesterday, but it was a profitable one, as Adam Ottavino did in fact secure a save in Wade Davis’s absence.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
August 19, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis converted his 34th save of the season on Saturday night. Since giving up three runs on August 9th, Davis has strung together four straight scoreless appearances, picking up a win and two saves during that time. He may be back on track and seems to have cooled down his hot seat for now.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
August 11, 2018
Colorado Rockies — One night after Wade Davis had another rough outing, Adam Ottavino shut the door in the ninth inning for his fifth save of the year. Ottavino’s ERA now sits nearly four full runs better than Davis’. Davis has taken the loss in three of his last four appearances, though he claims to have found some easy fixes to his issues. Bud Black still has not officially made a change at closer, but the Rockies still have playoff ambitions and Ottavino’s numbers are too good to ignore. You should pick Ottavino up if he is still available in case Black finally makes a decision and removes Davis from the ninth inning.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
August 10, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis’s days as Rockies closer are numbered — or they should be, after Thursday night’s loss sent his ERA soaring to 5.51 and turned the Rockies’ official Twitter account into a group therapy session. Adam Ottavino has been dynamite this year and would likely have the job all to his lonesome if Davis is removed from the role.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
August 6, 2018
Colorado Rockies – Wade Davis got a second day off after blowing consecutive games on Thursday and Friday, but Adam Ottavino couldn’t hold the 9th inning lead in his place. Instead, the Rockies needed an extra-inning rally, leaving the save chance to Seung-Hwan Oh, who converted.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
August 4, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis was given a lead for the second night in a row, and for the second night in a row he blew the save and took the loss in walk-off fashion. Last night it was a three-run homer by Eric Thames that handed Davis his 6th blown save of the year. It may not be his last blown save, though, as after the game Bud Black said that Davis will remain closer and that he will be fine. We’ll see just how long Black keeps his faith in Davis and his 5.09 ERA though, as Adam Ottavino pitched a clean 8th and has a sparkling 1.35 ERA. With the Rockies trying desperately to hang in the playoff race, Davis should be on a short leash.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
July 28, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino shut the door on Oakland last night to pick up his fourth save of the year. After the game, manager Bud Black said that Wade Davis was getting some extra rest after a couple tough outings against the Astros. We expect that Davis will be available today.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
July 26, 2018
Colorado Rockies — We expect newly-acquired Seung-Hwan Oh to shore up the seventh inning for the Rockies. Oh might not be “The Final Boss” anymore, but he’s still a pretty tough one: think Mouser or Bald Bull.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
July 21, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino got the last out of the 8th inning and stuck around for the 9th to record his third save of the year. Wade Davis was recovering from an illness and had been sent back to the hotel prior to the game. Bud Black did not indicate how serious the illness was, so we expect Davis to be day-to-day going forward.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
July 12, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Bryan Shaw is back from the disabled list and predicting a return to form commensurate with his large contract.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
July 1, 2018
Colorado Rockies — As predicted by the Vulture Save Watch, Wade Davis got the day off on Saturday and Adam Ottavino recorded his second save of the season. Ottavino should continue to see save chances when Davis is unavailable.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
June 22, 2018
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies bullpen has been taxed lately, so (as predicted) manager Bud Black took his chances with an overworked Jake McGee with a lead in the ninth. McGee allowed a run but delivered his first save of the season. He has now pitched in four of five. Adam Ottavino and Wade Davis (who each previously pitched in three out of four) were held out. Score a second partial win for the Vulture Save Watch!
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
June 20, 2018
Colorado Rockies – Wade Davis’ struggles continued on Tuesday as he allowed two runs (one earned) in an eventual 10-8 win. Davis now sports a 4.71 ERA (14.29 in June) and his owners should remain concerned that Adam Ottavino (0.85 ERA) will soon be taking over as closer.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
June 18, 2018
Colorado Rockies – After allowing four runs in a walkoff loss to the Rockies, Wade Davis now has a 15.43 ERA across six outings in June. With Adam Ottavino fresh off the DL and still pitching like an All Star, Davis needs to start looking over his shoulder, and his owners should consider handcuffing with Ottavino, if he’s available.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
June 15, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Ace reliever Adam Ottavino was activated from the disabled list on Thursday and should immediately return to his spot setting up closer Wade Davis.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
May 29, 2018
Colorado Rockies – Bryan Shaw has not been good lately in place of the injured Adam Ottavino. In his last eight appearances, Shaw owns a 16.71 ERA. That includes Tuesday’s disastrous ninth inning in which he allowed three runs on five hits before Wade Davis bailed him out to clinch a 9-6 win. Shaw will probably still get some high-leverage work in Ottavino’s absence, but the slightly less worse Jake McGee has surpassed Shaw for now in the Colorado bullpen.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | McGee | Shaw.
May 29, 2018
Colorado Rockies – Adam Ottavino has been placed on the disabled list with a sore left oblique. The team considers the injury to be minor, so he’ll likely be back in two weeks or so. Look for Bryan Shaw and Jake McGee to see their share of holds increase.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Shaw | McGee.
May 19, 2018
Colorado Rockies – With a three-run lead on Friday, the Rockies turned to Bryan Shaw in the 7th inning. Shaw stayed on to pitch a clean 8th to pick up his 10th hold of the year. Shaw has only given up one run in his last 10 appearances, lowering his ERA from 7.11 to 4.43. Meanwhile, Jake McGee has been left out of some close games recently. Both McGee and Shaw have been subject to some pretty severe home-road splits (even for Colorado), but it seems that Shaw is slightly ahead of McGee in Bud Black’s mind for now.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Ottavino | Shaw.
May 7, 2018
Colorado Rockies – With Wade Davis getting the afternoon off, Adam Ottavino picked up his first save of the season. Ottavino has quietly been maybe the single best reliever in all of baseball thus far, with 35 Ks in 19 innings and only one earned run allowed all season, and should be owned in virtually every format.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
April 28, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino has remained lights-out this season (0.60 ERA; 0.47 WHIP; 28 K in 15 IP), and the Rockies are using him to set up Wade Davis, with Jake McGee relegated to the seventh-inning role.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
April 14, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino has been on fire to start the season, racking up 18 strikeouts in his 8.2 innings, and he picked up his third hold of the season by closing out the eighth Friday night. Bryan Shaw has been good, pitching a clean seventh inning ahead of Ottavino, but Ottavino’s recent usage suggests he’s ahead of Shaw at this point.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | McGee | Ottavino.
April 3, 2018
Colorado Rockies – Jake McGee got his second hold of the year on Monday, pitching the 8th inning in a 3-run game. The season is only a few days old, but early usage suggests McGee is the clear handcuff for offseason acquisition Wade Davis.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | McGee | Shaw.
February 28, 2018
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies have the most expensive bullpen in baseball after they signed Wade Davis to a three-year, $52 million contract. They also snagged righty Bryan Shaw in the offseason and re-signed lefty Jake McGee to hefty contracts, and we’ll see if the Rockies get the bang for their buck that they expect. Those three guys are the key arms, but Adam Ottavino and Mike Dunn will also be in the mix for some holds during the season.
Starting 2018 hierarchy: Davis | Shaw | McGee.
Holds candidates: Shaw, McGee, Ottavino, Dunn.
September 13, 2017
Colorado Rockies – The Vulture Save Watch correctly predicted that Greg Holland would be unavailable on Tuesday. However, the Rockies also rested Jake McGee and Pat Neshek. Scott Oberg pitched the eighth inning and then got the first out of the ninth before ceding to Chris Rusin. The lefty recorded the final two outs for his second career save. Bud Black calls Rusin the team’s “Swiss Army knife,” and while he hasn’t officially cracked our hierarchy, don’t be too surprised if he gets more high-leverage looks over the final weeks of the season.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | McGee | Neshek.
September 12, 2017
Colorado Rockies – After being temporarily demoted to committee status, Greg Holland seems to have worked out his issues and last night collected his fourth save in seven days. Given his recent issues, a few hiccups could lead to a quick re-installation of the committee, but for the time being, we don’t see anyone else in the Colorado bullpen getting save opps as long as Holland is rested.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | McGee | Neshek.
August 28, 2017
Colorado Rockies – With Greg Holland unavailable due to a scheduled rest day, the Rockies went with Jake McGee in the 9th inning to close out a 3-0 victory over the Braves. If Holland is unable to make his slider great again, McGee seems like the guy to replace him at this point. He has closing experience, of course, and while Pat Neshek is having a better year, the 36-year-old seems more content to stay in a set-up role — as he did when a similar situation arose with the Phillies earlier this season. Since Holland was not going to pitch yesterday, we can’t yet say for certain that he’s no longer the lead option for saves, but this situation remains very fluid, with the next few outings key to how things shake out.
Hierarchy remains: *Holland | McGee | Neshek.
* = closer-by-committee
August 27, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Greg Holland entered the ninth inning last night trying to protect a three run lead. He recorded only one out, while giving up a two runs on three hits. Jake McGee replaced Holland and got a double play to end the game. Holland’s month of August has been atrocious. His ERA for the month is 15.12, and he has three blown saves (plus he was on his way to a fourth blown save last night). Bud Black said after the game that they would talk about replacing Holland in the closer’s role, but no changes have been confirmed yet. Given how bad he has been this month, we figure the Rockies have to back off Holland, at least temporarily. We will slap the committee on there for now, and slide McGee up to first in line with the thought that the Rockies might keep Neshek in his eighth inning role like the Phillies did earlier this season. If anything more definitive is announced today, we will be sure to let you know.
Updated hierarchy: *Holland | McGee | Neshek.
* = closer-by-committee
August 25, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Greg Holland, reeling after an awful month, pitched a clean ninth Thursday, retiring the side on just seven pitches. It’s an encouraging sign for Holland owners, who probably have benched him by now until he shows he consistently has his act together. Another encouraging sign? Manager Bud Black said he’ll remain closer (for now). Another blow-up or two, however, could prompt a change at the back end.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Neshek | McGee.
August 24, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Greg Holland had a rough Wednesday against his former club, giving up three runs as he recorded his third blown save this month in a walk-off loss to the Royals. After the game, Bud Black said that his initial instinct is to keep Holland as his closer, though he will talk about it. Holland’s last two outings have been disastrous, as he also allowed three earned runs on August 19. Nearly untouchable over the first three months of the season, Holland has now given up nine earned runs in August and is firmly on the hot seat in Colorado.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Neshek | McGee.
August 10, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Even though Wednesday’s game went 12 innings, Bud Black managed to rest Greg Holland and Pat Neshek. Jake McGee pitched in the eighth and ninth, and Tyler Chatwood made his first appearance since being moved to the bullpen, picking up his first save in five years. Chatwood is the only pitcher this season with both a save and a shutout, and he’s the first guy to do it since — *drum roll* — Matt Andriese in 2016. That answer is kind of a letdown, I’ll be honest with you.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Neshek | McGee.
August 9, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Jake McGee is no longer on the DL, but he has still yet to pitch since July 25. It was a bit curious that McGee wasn’t summoned at all in a 1-0 game last night, especially when the Rockies twice played the matchups against left-handed hitters, but perhaps Bud Black is hoping to ease McGee back into the late innings.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Neshek | McGee.
August 3, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Day-to-day with a cut on his pitching hand (the knuckle of the forefinger) after a kitchen accident, Greg Holland pitched in a tie game in the ninth inning Thursday and got the win when the Rockies scored in the bottom half. Manager Bud Black was willing to wait for Holland to heal, but said he wasn’t too worried, as the two had a conversation about an upcoming roast instead of the cut before Thursday’s game.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Neshek | Dunn.
August 3, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Greg Holland cut his index finger in a kitchen mishap on Tuesday and is day-to-day.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Neshek | Dunn.
August 1, 2017
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies already made their bullpen-bolstering move, adding Pat Neshek a few days ago, and as it turned out, the move couldn’t have come at a better time, as Jake McGee felt his back tighten up over the weekend and will need a short DL stint. Lefty Mike Dunn has settled in as of late (only 1 ER in 10 July appearances) and might get some matchup-based looks in the 7th and 8th in McGee’s absence.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Neshek | Dunn.
July 27, 2017
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies added some much-needed bullpen depth with the acquisition of Pat Neshek from the Phillies. Neshek brings an impressive resume (1.12 ERA, 0.82 WHIP, 10.04 K/9) to Coors Field, where he will immediately see high-leverage work and potentially a save chance with Greg Holland on paternity leave. Holland will be back sometime during the Rockies’ series against the Nationals, and Bud Black was mum on who would close in Holland’s absence before the Neshek deal. We’ll see how Black plays the new-look bullpen when that series begins on Friday.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Neshek | McGee.
July 5, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino had an abysmal June and his struggles have continued into July. On Tuesday, he allowed two homers in the eighth inning of a blowout loss. Ottavino has given up 12 runs over his last six appearances and seen his ERA shoot up to 6.00. Hard to think at this point that if Greg Holland needed a day off it’d be Ottavino and not Jake McGee getting the call for the ninth inning. McGee had struggled a bit at the end of June but has since lowered his ERA to 2.83 with four straight scoreless appearances.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | McGee | Ottavino.
June 10, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino was activated from the DL and immediately saw action in the eighth inning ahead of Greg Holland. Ottavino looked healthy, pitching a perfect inning with 2 Ks and picking up his 16th hold of the season. A healthy Ottavino is the best option behind Holland for the Rockies, moving Jake McGee back to second in line.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Ottavino | McGee.
June 9, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Setup man Adam Ottavino says he’s ready to return, and the expectation is that he’ll be activated from the disabled list as early as Friday. The move isn’t official yet, but it’s coming.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | McGee | Rusin.
June 2, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Former closer Jake McGee has been really impressive lately, having not allowed a run since May 12 or a walk since May 4 (1.66 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, 30 Ks). He picked up his fourth hold Thursday, pitching the eighth inning in Adam Ottavino’s absence. He’ll likely get any save opportunity when closer Greg Holland is unavailable.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | McGee | Rusin.
May 31, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino was placed on the 10-day DL thanks to shoulder inflammation. The Rockies called up Carlos Estevez from Triple-A and he rewarded the club by giving up five hits and three earned runs on Tuesday in a low-leverage spot during an eventual 10-4 loss. Chris Rusin and Jake McGee (1.74 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, 12.63 K/9) will serve as the bridge to Greg Holland, with McGee riding a stretch of seven straight scoreless appearances and earning the praise of manager Bud Black.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Rusin | McGee.
May 26, 2017
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies lost Thursday, but the team got a chance to put on display its stable of solid relievers in a tight game. Lately, lefty Mike Dunn (5.79 ERA, 1.57 WHIP) is not one of those pitchers, despite his 10 holds this season. In fact, in his last outing on Wednesday, Dunn allowed two earned runs on a walk and two hits while facing just four batters. We like Chris Rusin, who after another scoreless outing Thursday, has a 2.00 ERA and a 0.85 WHIP. He has recorded a few holds lately, too.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Ottavino | Rusin.
May 24, 2017
Colorado Rockies — One name to keep an eye on is Chris Rusin. He pitched a scoreless 7th inning in an 8-2 win on Tuesday and has now allowed just one run in his last 11 appearances, striking out 15 and walking just two in that span. The lefty is versatile enough to also serve as a long reliever when necessary, but if he continues to pitch well, don’t be surprised to see him pick up some more high-leverage work.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Ottavino | Dunn.
May 7, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Chris Rusin picked up a three inning save on Saturday.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Ottavino | Dunn.
May 4, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Mike Dunn is back with the Rockies and should return to his seventh-inning role.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Ottavino | Dunn.
April 27, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Back spasms sent Mike Dunn to the 10-day DL, backdated to Sunday. Chad Qualls was activated to replace him, but it looks like Jake McGee will slide into his role, with Qualls and Carlos Estevez also late-inning hold options.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Ottavino | McGee.
April 8, 2017
Colorado Rockies – With the Rockies bullpen having been put to work early this season, it was Jake McGee who got the call to pick up the vulture save. McGee is feeling healthy, and he looked awesome, striking out the side on 14 pitches. With the rest of the bullpen needing rest, we’d like to see McGee in a couple more high leverage spots before he cracks the hierarchy again, but if the former closer can pitch like he did yesterday, he won’t stay out long.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Ottavino | Dunn.
April 5, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Mike Dunn pitched a clean eighth inning ahead of Greg Holland on Tuesday. This comes after a strong seventh inning on Monday. He has struck out five of the seven batters he has faced and has yet to allow a hit this season. This has come after an outstanding spring. Meanwhile, Jake McGee’s 2017 debut on Tuesday consisted of one batter faced and one hit allowed.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Ottavino | Dunn.
March 30, 2017
Colorado Rockies — It’s a guessing game in Colorado, where neither Greg Holland nor Adam Ottavino is having a lights-out spring. We continue to believe that it’ll be Holland closing out games for the Rockies.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Ottavino | McGee.
March 22, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Greg Holland has looked healthy so far in his spring training appearances, and local reporters seem confident that he will start the season as the closer, moving Adam Ottavino into an eighth-inning role.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Ottavino | McGee.
March 1, 2017
Colorado Rockies — None of this newfangled bullpen fluidity for Bud Black: the Colorado manager is a traditionalist who likes his beer cold, his TV loud, and his closers strictly identified, “dog.” Although that article suggests that Black wants Greg Holland to return to his past ninth-inning greatness, the former Royal has yet to appear in a spring training game, continuing rehab from his 2015 Tommy John surgery. Based on that uncertainty, we’ll give the tentative edge to Adam Ottavino, whose new two-seam fastball looked good in a small sample size last season. Jake McGee and Mike Dunn are likely to fill late-inning roles, with old friends Jason Motte, Chad Qualls, and Carlos Estevez also hanging around (at least for now).
Starting 2017 hierarchy: Ottavino | Holland | McGee.
Holds candidates: Holland, McGee, Mike Dunn.
September 29, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Boone Logan got the first shot at Wednesday’s save, against a lefty-heavy lineup, but when he put two men on, Adam Ottavino was summoned for the last out.
Hierarchy remains: Ottavino | Logan | McGee.
September 12, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Jake McGee got the 9th inning of a tie game on Sunday, and pitched a scoreless inning with two strikeouts. He’s now logged seven straight scoreless appearances and has fought his way back on to the Rockies hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Logan | McGee.
September 9, 2016
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies activated Jason Motte from the 15-day disabled list. He had been on the DL since late July with a rotator cuff strain. We’ll monitor how Walt Weiss uses Motte (5.66 ERA) in the coming days.
Hierarchy remains: Ottavino | Logan | Estevez.
August 28, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Up until yesterday, Adam Ottavino’s ERA for 2015 and 2016 matched his jersey number; 0. Ottavino blew the save on Saturday while giving up his first run since September 2014. Ottavino had the longest active scoreless streak in the majors, but it was ended by the Washington Nationals, who ended Zach Britton’s streak just a few days earlier.
Hierarchy remains: Ottavino | Logan | Estevez.
August 23, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Right-hander Scott Oberg was placed on the 15-day disabled list with the very scary sounding condition “axillary artery thrombosis.” Carlos Estevez, who closed for the Rockies for a time despite a 5+ ERA, was recalled from Triple-A to replace Oberg. Boone Logan has been fantastic this year, so we expect him to get the 8th ahead of Ottavino going forward, while Estevez’s former experience in the closer role pushes him on to the depth chart right away.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Logan | Estevez.
August 18, 2016
Colorado Rockies — We knew Adam Ottavino was likely to get a night off, but it was a bit surprising to see Scott Oberg earn the save. It’s been a revolving door in front of Ottavino, with Oberg, Jake McGee, and Carlos Estevez each pitching an eighth inning in front of the closer this past week. Oberg’s numbers aren’t great — and he gave up a home run on Wednesday night — but we’ve got to put him somewhere. Just know that we don’t recommend anyone in this pen past Ottavino.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Oberg | Logan.
August 12, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Adam Ottavino picked up his first save of the season Thursday. It was his first since April 24, 2015, before he was shelved and had to undergo Tommy John surgery. Ottavino will likely remain the Rockies closer for the rest of the year.
Hierarchy remains: Ottavino | Logan | McGee.
August 10, 2016
Colorado Rockies — As we had been predicting for a while, Walt Weiss decided to go back to Adam Ottavino “for the most part” in the closer’s role. Carlos Estevez will slip back to at least fourth-chair, behind Ottavino, Boone Logan, and Jake McGee.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Logan | McGee.
August 9, 2016
Colorado Rockies — As we’ve been predicting for a while, Walt Weiss has decided to go back to Adam Ottavino in the closer’s role. Carlos Estevez will slip back to at least fourth-chair, behind Ottavino, Boone Logan, and Jake McGee.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Logan | McGee.
August 9, 2016
Colorado Rockies — This might be the last straw for Carlos Estevez’s job as the Rockies’ closer. Following a couple of miserable outings last week, Estevez melted down last night at Coors Field, coughing up three runs in one-third of an inning for his fifth blown save of the year. After the game, Walt Weiss said he was “not going to talk about roles after the game.” When he does talk about roles, especially whether Adam Ottavino will step in as closer, we’ll let you know.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Ottavino | Logan.
August 6, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Carlos Estevez had a rough outing last night, giving up four runs and recording only one out while trying to protect a two-run lead. This meltdown, which snapped a six-game scoreless streak for Estevez, was his second blown save in 13 attempts, and has led to speculation that Adam Ottavino will get the next save opportunity. Ottavino has been outstanding in 14 scoreless appearances since his return from Tommy John surgery; in fact, he hasn’t given up a run in exactly 23 months (25.1 IP). Walt Weiss said in July that he wanted to work Ottavino back into the closer’s role, and this game may serve as a catalyst. This may be your last shot to grab Ottavino before he officially takes over as the closer.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Ottavino | Logan.
July 29, 2016
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies could be close to dealing reliever Boone Logan to the Blue Jays, but no deal is in place as of yet. Several other teams are interested in the lefty.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Ottavino | Logan.
July 28, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Jason Motte returned to the disabled list on Wednesday with another right shoulder strain. Walt Weiss still doesn’t seem to fully trust Jake McGee, so we’ll elevate fellow lefthander Boone Logan into the hierarchy — but note that Logan has been mentioned in some trade rumors.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Ottavino | Logan.
July 19, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Between the emergence of Carlos Estevez, the recent returns of Jake McGee and Boone Logan from the disabled list, and the activation of Adam Ottavino after Tommy John surgery, the Rockies suddenly have a bunch of competent relievers to get them through the late innings. But even with all those arms available, it’s been Jason Motte pitching the 8th inning in close games over the last two days. Ottavino has been used in the 7th in his last two appearances, and McGee has only pitched one third of an inning over the past week, despite Walt Weiss explaining before the All-Star break that he intended to “work him back in” to the late inning mix. We expect Weiss to keep going with what works for now, especially following last night’s win.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Ottavino | Motte.
July 10, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino maintained a pristine 0.00 ERA in his third appearance since returning from Tommy John surgery. Walt Weiss has said that Ottavino is a “big league closer,” and that he will try to get Ottavino back into that role, so if you’re looking for a speculative add, you could do a lot worse. He seems to have moved ahead of Jake McGee, but still has some work to do in order to pass Carlos Estevez.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Ottavino | McGee.
July 10, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Jordan Lyles picked up the second three inning save of Saturday in a Rockies’ five run victory. Lyles does not figure into the Rockies’ regular late inning plans.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | McGee | Ottavino.
July 6, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino officially made his return from Tommy John surgery on Tuesday in his first appearance since April 25, 2015. He struck out the only batter he faced in a 7-3 victory. Ottavino is expected to ease back into game action, but manager Walt Weiss said it won’t be long before the righty is pitching in high-leverage situations.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | McGee | Ottavino.
July 3, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Jake McGee was activated from the DL on Saturday. He started the seventh inning with the Rockies down three runs, and struck out the first batter he faced. Unfortunately, he gave up a double and walk to the next two batters and got pulled after throwing 22 pitches. Manager Walt Weiss has not said whether or not McGee would regain the closer’s role. Carlos Estevez has pitched well in McGee’s absence, and we will leave him in the closer spot for now (and as of this post, Denver Post readers agree). We will continue to monitor this and let you know when Weiss announces his plans moving forward.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | McGee | Motte.
June 30, 2016
Colorado Rockies — After two rehab outings, Jake McGee is expected to return from the disabled list on Saturday — but Walt Weiss refused to commit to a set role for the lefthander going forward, calling the Rockies’ bullpen situation “ever-evolving.” If Gigalith hits the hierarchy, don’t say he didn’t warn you.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Motte | Germen.
June 26, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Gonzalez Germen recorded his first save of the season yesterday. Germen came on to get the last out the eighth inning and stayed on for the ninth after the Rockies added some insurance runs. Boone Logan has been used as a LOOGY lately, he has gone less than a full inning in his last seven appearances so German could continue to see more time in the later innings for the Rockies until Jake McGee returns.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Motte | Germen.
June 13, 2016
Colorado Rockies – A day after being named closer, Carlos Estevez needed a night off due to recent workload. In his stead, the Rockies played matchups in the 9th, with Jason Motte starting off the inning and then Boone Logan picking up the last out for his first save of the year. You can expect to see something similar on nights when Estevez isn’t available in the future.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Motte | Logan.
June 12, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Jake McGee was placed on the DL yesterday and rookie Carlos Estevez recorded the save in his place. Jason Motte was originally sent out for the 9th but after he allowed a double and hit a batter, he was pulled for Estevez. After the game, manager Walt Weiss named Estevez the closer while McGee is out.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Motte | Logan.
June 11, 2016
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies have placed closer Jake McGee on the disabled list. They have yet to name a replacement, but a committee led by flamethrower Carlos Estevez and Boone Logan is a possibility. Chad Qualls is having a bad year, but also has the experience. Check back for updates.
Updated hierarchy: *Estevez | Logan | Qualls.
* = closer-by-committee
June 11, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Jake McGee got two quick outs with a two-run lead before giving up four straight hits, including a three-run homer, to blow his third save of the year. Before Friday night, McGee had given up only one run in his last 12 appearances, but his peripheral numbers have been weak. His K rate is nearly half of what it’s usually been and his velocity has continued to drop, so it’s not a surprise that opponents are batting over .300 against him. McGee’s job is probably safe for now, but with Carlos Estevez pitching well and Adam Ottavino planning a return at the All-Star break, he shouldn’t get too comfortable.
Hierarchy remains: McGee | Estevez | Logan.
June 7, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Boone Logan has been reinstated from the DL following a stint with a strained shoulder. Twenty-one year old flamethrower Miguel Castro was sent down to Triple-A Albuquerque to make room for Logan’s return.
Updated hierarchy: McGee | Estevez | Logan.
May 26, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Jason Motte is back from the disabled list, but taking his place will be Boone Logan (strained shoulder). Walt Weiss intends to ease Motte back into things, so for now, Miguel Castro moves to second in line.
Updated hierarchy: McGee | Estevez | Castro.
May 22, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Carlos Estevez pitched the eighth inning of a tie game last night and ended up getting the win after the Rockies scored four runs in the top of the ninth. Estevez now has a win and five holds in his last six appearances. In other Rockies’ bullpen news, Miguel Castro was activated from the DL a few days ago and could work his way back onto the hierarchy shortly.
Updated hierarchy: McGee | Estevez | Logan.
May 18, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Carlos Estevez converted his fifth straight hold on Tuesday while Chad Qualls has not pitched since a blown save on May 11. Estevez, who has closing experience from over two decades ago, has allowed just two hits and one earned run in his last six appearances.
Updated hierarchy: McGee | Logan | Estevez.
April 30, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Jason Motte had a good bullpen session on Friday in his rehabilitation from a sore shoulder, and will travel with the team on its upcoming road trip. There’s still no target date for his return, however.
Hierarchy remains: McGee | Qualls | Logan.
April 23, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Miguel Castro joined Jason Motte on the disabled list Friday, caused by inflammation in his right shoulder. It ain’t pretty, what’s left behind Jake McGee in the Rockies pen: new set-up guy Chad Qualls has a 6.35 ERA, Justin Miller averages two baserunners an inning, and Christian Bergman is giving up hits to everyone he doesn’t strike out. We’ll give the slot to lefty Boone Logan for now, but callup Gonzalez Germen could make it his before long.
Updated hierarchy: McGee | Qualls | Logan.
March 31, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Jason Motte, who was in contention to close for the Rockies, will likely start the season on the disabled list. Jake McGee should still get the first shot at closing games, but Miguel Castro and Chad Qualls are also options.
Updated hierarchy: McGee | Castro | Qualls.
March 24, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Manager Walt Weiss is in no rush to name a closer, but while the ninth inning is no closer to being decided upon, hard-throwing Miguel Castro may have impressed enough this spring to get a shot in the seventh inning.
Updated hierarchy: McGee | Motte | Castro.
March 2, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Jake McGee came to Colorado in an offseason trade, and should slot in as the team’s closer after Adam Ottavino hit the 60-day DL. The team also signed veterans Jason Motte and Chad Qualls to bolster the bullpen. In addition, the Rockies have two young arms, in Jairo Diaz and Justin Miller, who throw hard and impressed last season.
Starting 2016 hierarchy: McGee | Motte | Qualls.
Holds candidates: Motte, Qualls, Miller.
September 16, 2015
Colorado Rockies — In a 16-inning affair that saw the Rockies use a major league record 13 pitchers, it was Gonzalez Germen who eventually got the save. He may not factor into Colorado’s late-inning plans, but he certainly factors into their late-late-inning plans.
Hierarchy remains: Axford | Diaz | Miller.
September 12, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Justin Miller, who spent July and much of August getting high-leverage work for Colorado, has been moved back into that role since returning from Albuquerque. Miller pitched the seventh after Scott Oberg on Thursday, and entered a tight eighth on Friday night to strike out Nelson Cruz.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Diaz | Miller.
September 8, 2015
Colorado Rockies — The only bright spot in the Rockies’ car wreck of a bullpen lately has been Jairo Diaz, a 24-year-old righty who has allowed only 1 run in 8 innings of work this season. His peripherals aren’t great, but any form of production means that Walt Weiss gives you a shot, and yesterday, Weiss combined Diaz with lefty specialist Boone Logan to get through the 8th inning. Good enough for us.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Diaz | Oberg.
September 3, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Justin Miller, who was recalled from Triple-A prior to Wednesday’s game, was used to protect a three-run lead in the 8th inning, then stayed on for the 9th to pick up his first save after the Rockies scored two more in the bottom half of the frame.
Hierarchy remains: Axford | Oberg | Diaz.
August 29, 2015
Colorado Rockies — John Axford has pitched well since regaining the closer role, but the rest of the Colorado bullpen continues to stink. Friday, the team sent Tommy Kahnle down to Albuquerque, leaving Scott Oberg as the only remaining pedigreed reliever — and he celebrated by giving up two runs in a tied eighth to pick up the loss. With no hope of playoff baseball, the Rockies are trying some new guys in the ‘pen, including big-armed Venezuelan Jairo Diaz, who has a 100+ MPH fastball and a plus slider.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Oberg | Diaz.
August 21, 2015
Colorado Rockies — The resurgent John Axford earned his first save since July 10 after shutting down the Nationals Thursday night. What’s more remarkable is that Axford had four blown saves (and three wins) in between his two most recent converted attempts. Scott Oberg pitched the eighth inning ahead of the Ax Man, and has two holds over the last week.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Kahnle | Oberg.
August 19, 2015
Colorado Rockies — John Axford will again close for the Rockies. Walt Weiss announced the move before Tuesday’s game, saying that Axford looked like himself again. Tommy Kahnle will slide down to the set-up role, though he struggled on Tuesday, allowing four earned runs on one hit and three walks.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Kahnle | Miller.
August 18, 2015
Colorado Rockies – John Axford will again close for the Rockies. Walt Weiss announced the move before Tuesday’s game, saying that Axford looked like himself again. Tommy Kahnle slides down to the set-up role.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Kahnle | Miller.
August 10, 2015
Colorado Rockies – John Axford finished off the 7th inning of a tie game, and then stayed on to pitch the 8th, ultimately earning the win when the Rockies pushed a couple runs across against Drew Storen. In a bullpen as shaky as this, that’s good enough for a place on the hierarchy — Axford moves back ahead of Rafael Betancourt, who coughed up the lead in the 6th.
Updated hierarchy: Kahnle | Miller | Axford.
August 9, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Manager Walt Weiss was impressed by Tommy Kahnle’s first save and said he wants him pitching in the ninth inning more often. We will remove the asterisk for now and hope we don’t jinx him like we seemingly did for Carson Smith when we removed his asterisk.
Hierarchy remains: Kahnle | Miller | Betancourt.
August 8, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Tommy Kahnle continues to look like the best bet for saves going forward for the Rockies; he picked up the first one of his career to celebrate his 26th birthday on Friday night.
Hierarchy remains: *Kahnle | Miller | Betancourt.
* = closer-by-committee
August 6, 2015
Colorado Rockies – So much for John Axford sneaking back in to the closer conversation in Colorado — he gave up 2 runs in the 7th inning last night, and was on the hook for the loss until Fernando Rodney blew the save. His ERA now sits at an ugly 4.59, after being at 0.47 through his first 20 appearances.
Updated hierarchy: *Kahnle | Miller | Betancourt.
* = closer-by-committee
August 5, 2015
Colorado Rockies – Tommy Kahnle was held out of a 10-4 Rockies loss on Tuesday while committee-mates Rafael Betancourt and Justin Miller were both used. Betancourt was knocked around, and drops out of contention for now, while Kahnle continues to look like Walt Weiss’s first choice for saves, and might run with the job if he can close out his first opportunity or two. Another outside possibility is that the Rockies go so long without a save chance that John Axford sneaks back into contention — he’s pitched two scoreless innings since his demotion.
Updated hierarchy: *Kahnle | Miller | Axford.
* = closer-by-committee.
August 3, 2015
Colorado Rockies – We’re three days into the Colorado closer committee, and looking more and more like Tommy Kahnle is Walt Weiss’s first choice. He got the last four outs of a four-run victory on Saturday, and then was held out of Sunday’s game, while Justin Miller and Rafael Betancourt pitched the 6th and 7th innings. Scott Oberg eventually blew it and took the loss. We’ll continue to monitor the situation.
Hierarchy remains: *Kahnle | Betancourt | Miller.
* = closer-by-committee
July 31, 2015
Colorado Rockies — As we predicted Friday morning, John Axford lost his job as Rockies closer after a string of five straight miserable appearances. Walt Weiss said that he had not yet decided who would take over, but name-checked Tommy Kahnle, Rafael Betancourt, and Justin Miller, who had six saves at AAA Albuquerque this season.
Updated hierarchy: *Kahnle | Betancourt | Miller.
* = closer-by-committee
July 31, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Closer John Axford is in what he calls the “ABSOLUTE WORST” stretch of his career now after blowing his fourth straight save Thursday night. He walked in the winning run, throwing just eight of his 25 pitches for strikes in a rough 9th inning. Manager Walt Weiss offered his support for Axford after the game, saying the closer has had a tough week. No kidding. Axford is on the hottest of seats, and if he’s pulled from the closer’s role (which may happen as early as Friday), we expect a committee approach, with Tommy Kahnle in line for the first crack, and Rafael Betancourt and Boone Logan other potential options.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Kahnle | Betancourt.
July 28, 2015
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies picked up Miguel Castro in the Troy Tulowitzki deal, and given the state of their bullpen, he might get summoned to the big leagues soon. For now, though, we suspect that LaTroy Hawkins’s absence means more holds for Rafael Betancourt and Tommy Kahnle. Keep an eye on Betancourt in particular, who has come around as of late, having allowed only one run in his last nine innings pitched; he’s becoming an appealing alternative to closer John Axford, who destroyed his trade value by allowing 12 ERs in his last 11 innings. Axford blew the save last night after the Rockies staged a big rally to take the lead in the top of the 9th.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Betancourt | Kahnle.
July 4, 2015
Colorado Rockies — John Axford returned to the team on Friday and is likely to be reactivated for Saturday’s game. During an incredibly stressful season, Axford has found baseball to be a peaceful haven.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Hawkins | Kahnle.
July 1, 2015
Colorado Rockies –John Axford was placed on the personal inactive list Tuesday night in order to take care of things at home, though thankfully it seems as if his son, who was bit by a rattlesnake earlier this year, is fine. By rule, Axford’s absence must last a minimum of three days, and the Rockies will go to a committee during that time. LaTroy Hawkins, Tommy Kahnle and Scott Oberg were mentioned by manager Walt Weiss as committee members, with Hawkins getting the first chance on Tuesday. The 42-year-old earned his second save of the season and his first since April 7. He has allowed just one earned run in nine appearances since returning to the Rockies’ roster and is the leading candidate for saves in Axford’s stead. Boone Logan was up in the ‘pen if a lefty got into the game for the A’s in the 9th, meaning Weiss is willing to play matchups as well.
Updated hierarchy: *Hawkins | Kahnle | Oberg.
* = closer-by-committee.
June 27, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Rafael Betancourt was activated from the disabled list and immediately pitched the seventh inning in a close game. He will immediately return to high-leverage setup work in front of John Axford, and should soon be considered for vulture save work.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Betancourt | Logan.
June 21, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Tommy Kahnle got the call last night with the Rockies protecting a two run lead in the 7th inning and two men on base. He got a double play ball to get out the inning and then came back to pitch a scoreless 8th. Kahnle was called up at the beginning of June and has recorded a couple holds to go along with an ERA under 1.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Logan | Kahnle.
June 19, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Righty Brooks Brown was placed on the 15-day disabled list with shoulder inflammation, and Scott Oberg (5.55 ERA) had his second awful outing in three games, allowing three runs in an inning on Thursday night. So, who should slot in after John Axford in one of the worst bullpens in the major leagues? Mike Hampton? Pedro Astacio? Jose Jimenez? We’ll go with Boone Logan — who leads the team in holds (13) and averages 11.2 K/9 — and former closer LaTroy Hawkins, who tossed a scoreless inning with two strikeouts Thursday. It’s also worth keeping an eye on Tommy Kahnle, who has impressed since his major league callup on June 1.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Logan | Hawkins.
June 12, 2015
Colorado Rockies — LaTroy Hawkins was activated from the disabled list and immediately pitched against the Marlins Thursday, allowing two hits and picking up a strikeout in a scoreless inning with the Rockies down six. Let’s see Hawkins get some work when the Rockies have the lead before we bring him back into the hierarchy.
Hierarchy remains: Axford | Oberg | Brown.
June 9, 2015
Colorado Rockies – Having battled a sinus infection and vertigo symptoms for weeks, Rafael Betancourt will spend some time on the disabled list. Throughout his three-week-long illness, Betancourt has struggled mightily, culminating with an on-field tantrum on Saturday. While Betancourt takes time to recover, 29-year-old Brooks Brown should slide in to take his place, but he may not be there for long as LaTroy Hawkins is close to returning to the roster.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Oberg | Brown.
June 8, 2015
Colorado Rockies – A week after Scott Oberg picked up his first career save, he pitched the 8th inning in a tie game (John Axford would pitch the 9th). In the near-term, Oberg seems like the most likely option to get saves when Axford is unavailable, especially with Rafael Betancourt struggling with fatigue.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Oberg | Betancourt.
June 5, 2015
Colorado Rockies — You probably thought you’d never read this name again in the annals of Closer Monkey, but 42-year-old reliever LaTroy Hawkins, who began the season as the Rockies closer, isn’t done yet. Recovering from right biceps tendinitis, Hawkins pitched a 1-2-3 sixth inning for the Triple-A Albuquerque Isotopes Thursday night, striking out Cubs super prospect Javier Baez in the process. Hawkins is scheduled to make at least one more appearance in AAA before a possible promotion back to the big leagues, where he could once again factor into the back-end of the Rockies bullpen.
Hierarchy remains: Axford | Betancourt | Oberg.
June 1, 2015
Colorado Rockies – John Axford needed a night off, so Scott Oberg picked up his first career save. Oberg certainly wouldn’t have been our first choice — the 25-year-old rookie has all of 19 big league appearances (3 holds) and hasn’t been especially impressive — but he’s only allowed 1 run in his last eight appearances, so maybe Walt Weiss was playing the hot hand. We’ll tentatively welcome him to the hierarchy and keep an eye on his usage going forward.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Betancourt | Oberg.
May 9, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Two-year-old Jameson Axford, still recovering from what his doctors called the worst rattlesnake bite they had ever seen, threw out the first pitch at Friday night’s game. Jameson has the stuff to challenge for a late-inning role in 2036, when the rest of us will all be so, so impossibly old.
Hierarchy remains: Axford | Betancourt | Logan.
May 5, 2015
Colorado Rockies – Confirming what many had already suspected, Adam Ottavino needs Tommy John surgery and will miss the rest of 2015.
Hierarchy remains: Axford | Betancourt | Logan.
May 1, 2015
Colorado Rockies – As a fantasy owner, these are words you do not want to hear from an injured closer due back soon: “I’m definitely worried,” Adam Ottavino told reporters. “It’s kind of weird. I haven’t had any elbow/triceps issues in my whole career.” Ottavino also revealed he will be shut down for a while and is “in a holding pattern.” It could be at least a few weeks before we see him again, and by then, John Axford could have the job secured.
Hierarchy remains: Axford | Betancourt | Logan.
April 28, 2015
Colorado Rockies — As we told you last night, John Axford was first in line to get a save opportunity with Adam Ottavino headed to the disabled list. Rafael Betancourt could also get some chances, but if you must ride with a Rockies closer, the Ax Man is the choice. And we’re sorry.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Betancourt | Logan.
April 27, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino has been placed on the 15-day DL with right triceps inflammation. Expect John Axford to get the most save chances in the short term.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Betancourt | Logan.
April 25, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino returned from his brief rest and earned an uneventful save on Friday night.
Hierarchy remains: Ottavino | Axford | Betancourt.
April 24, 2015
Colorado Rockies — John Axford, back from dealing with his son’s snake bite, earned his second save of the season on Thursday, shutting down the Padres in the 9th. After the game, regular closer Adam Ottavino said that he had asked for the day off due to “usual pitcher soreness.” All indications are that Ottavino is fine and will remain the closer moving forward, but Axford will play an important role as well. In other news, former closer LaTroy Hawkins has been placed on the DL with tendinitis in his biceps. This is Hawkins’s final season in what has been a $47 million career; his next appearance in one of our updates may be as part of a front office.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Axford | Betancourt.
April 15, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Prior to Tuesday’s game, Walt Weiss told Adam Ottavino that he would be the closer going forward; Ottavino responded by striking out the side to pick up his first save.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Betancourt | Logan.
April 14, 2015
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt was the freshest option in the bullpen for Walt Weiss last night after LaTroy Hawkins was unceremoniously sacked; Betancourt threw a perfect 9th inning with 2 Ks in recording the save. Adam Ottavino still could be the favorite for saves going forward, but Betancourt will also get consideration going forward after his spotless work on Monday.
Updated hierarchy: *Ottavino | Betancourt | Logan.
* = closer-by-committee
April 13, 2015
Colorado Rockies – LaTroy Hawkins has been removed from the closer role, manager Walt Weiss announced. Adam Ottavino might be the best bet to get saves going forward, but due to recent usage, he’s unavailable tonight. Rafael Betancourt will get the save opp, if there is one, and if he converts, he’s suddenly in the conversation.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Betancourt | Logan.
April 12, 2015
Colorado Rockies – John Axford has left the Rockies for a while to be with his son, who just had surgery following a rattlesnake attack. His absence may be poorly timed for Axford owners, as LaTroy Hawkins just blew his second save in a row and remains firmly on the Hot Seat. With Axford away, Adam Ottavino and Boone Logan are the relievers who could benefit if the Rockies are looking to give Hawkins a break.
Hierarchy remains: Hawkins | Ottavino | Logan.
April 9, 2015
Colorado Rockies – John Axford got the save in the 10th inning after Latroy Hawkins blew his bid in the ninth. Adam Ottavino had already pitched, but Axford is a former closer, and that experience could get him some more high leverage spots in the future.
Hierarchy remains: Hawkins | Ottavino | Logan.
April 6, 2015
Colorado Rockies – In a surprising bit of news, Walt Weiss named Boone Logan the team’s primary 8th inning reliever. Logan is no LOOGY — he’s shown his whole career that he can get both lefties and righties out — and he had an excellent spring, posting a 1.04 ERA and 13 strikeouts in 8.2 IPs. The odd thing is that righty Adam Ottavino has been even MORE dominant (0.00 ERA, 15 Ks, 8.1 IPs), and just a few weeks ago, Weiss said that Ottavino would be the guy when closer LaTroy Hawkins is unavailable. Both things can be true, of course — this might be one of those situations where the 8th inning guy isn’t the one to get the call on nights when the closer is unavailable. But it certainly bears watching, as Hawkins, already no one’s pick to keep his job all year, had a pretty rough spring. In other Rockies bullpen news, John Axford’s son was bitten by a rattlesnake, and the righty is likely to miss a few games to start the season.
Updated hierarchy: Hawkins | Ottavino | Logan.
March 26, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Walt Weiss told reporters that Adam Ottavino will be the club’s top vulture save option when 42-year-old closer LaTroy Hawkins is fatigued, or watching Matlock reruns.
Updated hierarchy: Hawkins | Ottavino | Axford.
March 8, 2015
Colorado Rockies – Yes, the Rockies still employ a closer that began his major league career (1995!) before some of our faithful Closer Monkey readers were born! I’m looking at YOU, LaTroy Hawkins. At 42, Hawkins will be the oldest active player in the big leagues this year, which will be his 21st and final season in Major League Baseball. Don’t let his age fool you. Hawkins had a solid year in Denver last season, collecting 23 saves and a 3.31 ERA. Still, keep an eye on the other late-inning relievers, including heir apparent John Axford, and last year’s up-and-down set-up duo, Adam Ottavino and Rex Brothers.
Starting 2015 hierarchy: Hawkins | Axford | Ottavino.
Holds candidates: Axford, Ottavino.
July 31, 2014
Colorado Rockies — A 27-pitch outing by LaTroy Hawkins on Tuesday was tiring enough to require the services of Adam Ottavino as closer on Wednesday.
Hierarchy remains: Hawkins | Ottavino | Brothers.
July 30, 2014
Colorado Rockies — LaTroy Hawkins is coveted by five or six teams as a set-up guy, but his strong influence in the clubhouse makes him very unlikely to move this week.
Hierarchy remains: Hawkins | Ottavino | Brothers.
July 29, 2014
Colorado Rockies – Trade rumors are swirling around Rockies closer LaTroy Hawkins, and since it’s extremely unlikely that he closes should he land somewhere like Pittsburgh, the fantasy spotlight has turned to what he’ll be leaving behind in the Colorado bullpen. Unfortunately, the Rockies haven’t been winning very much at all lately, so there isn’t a very big sample size to look at, in terms of July usage. Rex Brothers has been the “closer of the future” seemingly forever, and he did get the ball in the 8th inning of a tie game on Sunday. But in that appearance, he allowed two home runs and took the loss, the latest in a string of mediocre appearances for the lefty. So it might be righty Adam Ottavino who gets the first nod should Hawkins be traded. Ottavino had a tough June but has rebounded, posting a 2.00 in 10 July appearances. Our best bet is probably the dreaded committee, with Ottavino getting save opps against righties and Brothers getting the call against lefties, but either way, Ottavino is probably worth an add if you’re hunting for saves in a deep league.
Updated hierarchy: Hawkins | Ottavino | Brothers.
July 16, 2014
Colorado Rockies – Colorado’s owner has insisted that the team will not be selling at the trade deadline; even apart from a deal, you have to figure that LaTroy Hawkins will step aside soon for Rex Brothers. TRADE DEADLINE BUY: Rex Brothers. SELL: LaTroy Hawkins.
June 21, 2014
Colorado Rockies – It’s been a rough month for Adam Ottavino, who, after allowing yet another earned run on Friday, has seen his ERA climb from 1.46 at the end of May to 4.13 today. With Ottavino struggling, Rex Brothers has reclaimed his 8th inning role thanks to a recent scoreless stretch that has spanned eight outings.
Updated hierarchy: Hawkins | Brothers | Ottavino.
June 5, 2014
Colorado Rockies – Colorado led 8-5 when Rex Brothers entered in the eighth inning. But Rex yielded four singles and a walk, and all five of those batters came around to score, increasing his ERA to 19.29 over his last six appearances. The Rockies wound up losing 16-8. Although there was immediate speculation that Brothers might get sent down to AAA to clear a roster spot for prospect Eddie Butler, Walt Weiss wouldn’t confirm the rumor. We’d slide Matt Belisle into his hierarchy slot, but he gave up five runs of his own in the ninth, so Rex stays one more day.
Hierarchy remains: Hawkins | Ottavino | Brothers.
May 24, 2014
Colorado Rockies – Walt Weiss has said that LaTroy Hawkins is still their closer but he also mentioned that Adam Ottavino could be an option to close down the road. Hawkins has given up 22 hits, with only 6 strikeouts, in his 16 innings of work so far this year so Weiss might be forced to give Ottavino a shot at closing sooner rather than later.
Hierarchy remains: Hawkins | Ottavino | Brothers.
May 21, 2014
Colorado Rockies – LaTroy Hawkins blew his first save of the season on Sunday, and he followed it up by giving up the go-ahead run in a tied ninth last night. In his last nine appearances, Hawkins has given up seven earned runs in seven innings — and, more importantly, has surrendered 16 hits with only 2 strikeouts. With Adam Ottavino and Rex Brothers each pitching well, Hawkins might not have many more shots at the ninth.
LaTroy Hawkins to Hot Seat.
May 1, 2014
Colorado Rockies – Rather than pitch LaTroy Hawkins on three straight days, Colorado called on Rex Brothers with a two-run lead. He couldn’t get the job done, sending the game into extra innings. No hierarchy change.
April 30, 2014
Colorado Rockies – The oldest player in the National League just keeps on rolling, racking up his ninth save in as many attempts. BMWs for everyone! No hierarchy change.
April 23, 2014
Colorado Rockies – It seems Rex has returned from the doghouse, entering with two on and one out in a one-run eighth and immediately inducing a pivotal double play. Brothers’s heroics allowed Adam Ottavino’s shutout streak to continue. Walt Weiss stuck with the lefty against Brandon Belt to start the ninth, and he again came through. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to 2nd in line, replacing Boone Logan.
April 16, 2014
Colorado Rockies – Rex Brothers has been awful this year, and Walt Weiss has decided to give the lefty a few days off. Boone Logan, who escaped a bases-loaded jam in the seventh on Tuesday night, should reap some high-leverage rewards. For his part, Adam Ottavino has been practically unhittable. Hierarchy change: Adam Ottavino to Set-up, Boone Logan to 2nd in line.
April 6, 2014
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies went to Adam Ottavino in the seventh inning last night, protecting a 2 run lead. He proceeded to strike out the side in a scoreless inning and now has 8 Ks in 3 innings of work so far this season. Hierarchy change: Adam Ottavino to 2nd in line, replacing Boone Logan.
March 13, 2014
Colorado Rockies — How long will the Rockies be able to keep Rex Brothers — who was three years old when LaTroy Hawkins was drafted — in an eighth-inning role? Hawkins is ranked #29 in our preseason closer rankings.
March 7, 2014
Colorado Rockies – Rex Brothers’s quest to become the full-time Rockies closer will have to wait for at least a little while, as the Rockies signed the 41-year-old LaTroy Hawkins in the offseason. Walt Weiss has already named Hawkins the closer, though the aging righty will probably need to be rested from time to time, making Brothers an appealing option for vulture saves. Returning to the Colorado bullpen behind them are Matt Belisle and Wilton Lopez, though former Yankee Boone Logan has the early edge for the 2nd in line job after a solid 2013 campaign. Starting 2014 hierarchy: Closer – LaTroy Hawkins, Set-up – Rex Brothers, 2nd in line – Boone Logan.
September 19, 2013
Colorado Rockies – With the game still close in the 8th inning yesterday, the Rockies went to lefty Adam Ottavino, who pitched a clean inning to lower his ERA to 2.77, nearly a point and a half lower than Wilton Lopez. Lopez, the former closer for the Astros, never really got it together this year and has been a disappointment for Colorado all year long. Hierarchy change: Adam Ottavino to 2nd in line, replacing Wilton Lopez.
August 22, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt left Thursday’s game with an elbow injury and will likely miss the rest of the season. Rex Brothers will resume closing in his place. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to Closer, Matt Belisle to Set-up, Wilton Lopez to 2nd in line, Rafael Betancourt injured.
August 22, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt’s third outing since returning from the DL ended in a blown save. Betancourt has been reliable all year, and had posted two scoreless appearances since his return. But he’s also 38 years old, and the Rockies are well out of the playoff race. With Rex Brothers flourishing in Betancourt’s absence, the Rockies might not need much incentive to turn the keys over to their future closer. Rafael Betancourt to Hot Seat.
August 21, 2013
Colorado Rockies — Rafael Betancourt got his first save since his emergency appendectomy in a 1-2-3 ninth. No hierarchy change.
August 18, 2013
Colorado Rockies — Rafael Betancourt returned and pitched the ninth inning in a four-run loss; Walt Weiss is on the record saying that the next save chance will belong to the big righthander. Hierarchy change: Rafael Betancourt to Closer, Rex Brothers to Set-up, Matt Belisle to 2nd in line.
August 17, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt started his rehab assignment recently, and though Rex Brothers has pitched well in the injured closer’s stead, a Rockies beat writer expects that Betancourt will take over the 9th inning role again upon his return, which will likely be inside a week or so. No hierarchy change.
July 22, 2013
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies responded to Rafael Betancourt’s incapacitation by summoning a blast from the National League past: Mitchell Boggs. Reports suggest that Colorado will use him in front of Matt Belisle, and Boggs insists that his time in double-A exile has helped him return to last season’s impressive form. Hierarchy change: Mitchell Boggs to 2nd in line, replacing Wilton Lopez.
July 20, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt has been placed on the DL with appendicitis. The move is retroactive to July 15. Rex Brothers will close in his absence. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to Closer, Matt Belisle to Set-up, Wilton Lopez to 2nd in line, Rafael Betancourt to DL.
July 18, 2013
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies might move Rafael Betancourt in exchange for a starting pitcher, at which point Rex Brothers would again ascend to close. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: BUY Rex Brothers, SELL Rafael Betancourt.
July 9, 2013
Colorado Rockies — Matt Belisle pitched a perfect eighth in a close game on Monday, and Walt Weiss seems to again prefer him to Wilton Lopez in higher-leverage situations. Hierarchy change: Matt Belisle to 2nd in line, replacing Wilton Lopez.
June 28, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt returns from the DL today and will resume closing immediately. His return means that Rex Brothers can return to his 8th inning role, and Matt Belisle can be mercifully relegated to a less meaningful role. Last night, Belisle blew the game in the 8th inning, and has now given up 12 ERs in his last 6.2 innings. Hierarchy change: Rafael Betancourt to Closer, Rex Brothers to Set-up.
June 5, 2013
Colorado Rockies — Now that Rex Brothers seems safely ensconced as the Rockies’ interim closer, it’s less likely that Wilton Lopez will be called upon in that role. Hierarchy change: Matt Belisle to Set-up, Wilton Lopez to 2nd in line.
June 2, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt hit the DL on Sunday, meaning more save chances for Rex Brothers. Brothers, who is having a remarkable season so far (0.36 ERA), assumed his role immediately last night, pitching the 9th inning of a tie game. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to Closer, Wilton Lopez to Set-up, Matt Belisle to 2nd in line, Rafael Betancourt to DL.
June 1, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt has been placed on the disabled list with the same groin injury that has been nagging him over the past two weeks. Rex Brothers will close in his absence. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to Closer, Wilton Lopez to Set-up, Matt Belisle to 2nd in line, Rafael Betancourt to DL.
May 23, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rex Brothers pitched a scoreless ninth for his first save of the season. It appears Rafael Betancourt will avoid the disabled list and could be back tomorrow. However, Betancourt has a history of groin injuries so we will wait and see if he is actually ready to go that soon. No hierarchy change.
May 22, 2013
Colorado Rockies — Rafael Betancourt left Tuesday night’s game with what the team immediately described as a “tight right groin” — no real surprise given its recent workload. Betancourt was initially listed as day-to-day, but if Wednesday’s MRI leads to a DL stint, it’s likely that Rex Brothers will take over the closer role. Wilton Lopez is another option if Walt Weiss wants to play matchups or reduce the injury’s impact on the eighth inning. Hierarchy change: Rafael Betancourt injured, Rex Brothers to Closer, Wilton Lopez to Set-up.
April 14, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rex Brothers continues to pitch well out of the Rockies bullpen. He pitched a scoreless 9th last night with the Rockies up 4 to lower his ERA to 1.42 on the season. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to set-up, Matt Belisle to 2nd in line.
April 13, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Former Astros closer Wilton Lopez continued his awful start to the season, allowing two more runs in the 7th inning to push his ERA to 12.46. Rex Brothers got the win after throwing a clean 8th and has been pitching alongside Matt Belisle in high-leverage spots for the Rockies thus far. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to 2nd in line, replacing Wilton Lopez.
February 24, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Starting 2013 hierarchy: Closer- Rafael Betancourt, Set-up- Matt Belisle, 2nd in line- Wilton Lopez.
October 2, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Josh Roenicke picked up his first career save on Monday, retiring the final two batters in extra innings. Roenicke was the sixth man out of the pen. No hierarchy change.
August 28, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Matt Belisle picked up his second save of the season on Monday. He finished off the top of the 8th inning in a 3-run game, then stayed on for the ninth after the Rockies scored 7 runs in the interim. No hierarchy change.
August 24, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Matt Belisle picked up the save on Thursday, as Rafael Betancourt was given the night off after pitching in three of the previous four games. No hierarchy change.
July 12, 2012
Colorado Rockies – ESPN’s Buster Olney has reported that the Rockies would have to be overwhelmed in a deal for either Rafael Betancourt or Matt Belisle, so there isn’t much chance that either will move before the trade deadline. At 32-51, the Rockies are obviously not buyers, either. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: None.
June 22, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Sent to the minors after some early season struggles, Rex Brothers returned to the big leagues earlier this month and has since been dominant. Yesterday, he finished off the 7th inning, and has now allowing just 2 hits and 1 run in 8.2 innings, while striking out 14. Adam Ottavino, meanwhile, has struggled as of late, allowing 6 runs in his last 6.2 innings. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to 2nd in line, replacing Adam Ottavino.
May 24, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Adam Ottavino pitched the 7th inning in a close game on Wednesday, and now has 6 scoreless innings with 9 Ks since being called up. Hierarchy change: Adam Ottavino to 2nd in line, replacing Matt Reynolds.
May 23, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Rex Brothers, who closed for a short time last year but has struggled throughout 2012, was sent to the minors on Tuesday. Matt Belisle (2.86 ERA, 17 Ks/2 BBs) is the most likely candidate for 8th inning work. Hierarchy change: Matt Belisle to Set-up, Matt Reynolds to 2nd in line.
May 5, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Matt Belisle pitched a clean 7th inning on Friday, preserving a tie game for the Rockies; Edgmer Escalona took the loss in extras. Hierarchy change: Matt Belisle to 2nd in line, replacing Edgmer Escalona.
May 1, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Edgmer Escalona has been used as the late-innings righty out of the Rockies bullpen over the past week, helping to bridge the gap to Rafael Betancourt twice in the last two days. Hierarchy change: Edgmer Escalona to 2nd in line, replacing Matt Belisle.
April 12, 2012
Colorado Rockies- Long reliever Tyler Chatwood recorded a three-inning save in a Rockies blowout on Wednesday. No hierarchy change.
March 18, 2012
Colorado Rockies- With Huston Street gone, Rafael Betancourt is firmly entrenched in the closer role. Rex Brothers will likely get first crack at saves should Betancourt struggle. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Huston Street, Set-up- Rex Brothers, 2nd in line- Matt Belisle.
Sept. 12, 2011
Colorado Rockies- Long reliever Jason Hammel picked up a four-inning save in the Rockies blowout win yesterday. No hierarchy change.
Sept. 11, 2011
Colorado Rockies- Huston Street is unlikely to return to the closer role in the season’s final weeks, but he does appear to have ascended to the 8th inning role, which is where he pitched yesterday. Hierarchy change: Street to Set-up, Brothers to 2nd in line.
Sept. 4, 2011
Colorado Rockies- After announcing that Huston Street would be eased back in to the role, Jim Tracy said last night that it would be “asinine” to remove Betancourt from the closer role, given the job he’s done. He suggested that Betancourt could even head in to the winter as the closer, and if he falters, then Brothers will likely get an audition. Hierarchy change: Betancourt to Closer, Brothers to Set-up, Street to 2nd in line.
Sept. 3, 2011
Colorado Rockies- Rafael Betancourt got the save for the Rockies last night, who are still easing Huston Street back in to the role. Street should get the next, and most of the remaining, save opps. No hierarchy change.
Aug. 29, 2011
Colorado Rockies- Rafael Betancourt recorded the save last night, as Jim Tracy said he would be easing Huston Street back in to his closer role. Street should assume the job any day now. However, Matt Lindstrom may not return to his former role for a while, as Rex Brothers pitched the 8th last night and has been hot lately. Hierarchy change: Brothers to 2nd in line, replacing Lindstrom.
Aug. 28, 2011
Colorado Rockies- Huston Street pitched a scoreless 8th inning yesterday and Rafael Betancourt blew the save in the 9th. Manager Jim Tracy said he was going to ease Street back in the closer role but expect to see Street closing out games very soon especially after Betancourt’s blown save last night. Matt Lindstrom was also taken off the DL and moves to 2nd in line but should re-claim his set up job shortly. Lindstrom to 2nd in line, replacing Rex Brothers.
Aug. 26, 2011
Colorado Rockies– Huston Street is returning from the 15-day DL and should be activated for the game today against Los Angeles. Although Betancourt has pitched well in Street’s absence, expect Street to reclaim the closer job for the stretch run. Hierarchy change: Street to Closer, Betancourt to Set-Up, Brothers to 2nd in line.
Aug. 24, 2011
Colorado Rockies- Rex Brothers got the save last night because Betancourt had pitched 3 days in a row. His strong outing, however, combined with his recent work has made Brothers a strong 8th inning option. Hierarchy change: Brothers to Set-Up, Reynolds to 2nd in line.
Aug. 18, 2011
Colorado Rockies- With both Street and Lindstrom out, Matt Reynolds has emerged as primary set-up man, as he pitched 1.1 innings to close out a 5-run victory yesterday. Should he and Betancourt both go down, the Rockies will likely turn to Matt Belisle for save opportunities. Hierarchy change: Reynolds to Set-Up, Belisle to 2nd in line.
With Daniel Bard sidelined at Spring Training, it will be a camp competition for “closer” between Justin Lawrence and Tyler Kinley, covered by Thomas Harding of MLB.com.
September 17, 2023
Colorado Rockies – In game 2 of their doubleheader yesterday, Tyler Kinley pitched a scoreless 9th inning to pick up his 4th save of the season. Kinley recorded a pair of saves last week after Justin Lawrence vultured one and he seems to still be the clear option in the 9th for now. In game 1 of their doubleheader, Gavin Hollowell earned a very interesting save by coming on in the 7th inning with the tying run on deck and pitching the final 2.2 innings. Hollowell gave up a couple runs but was able to finish off the victory for his first save.
Hierarchy remains: Kinley | Lawrence | Bird.
September 13, 2023
Colorado Rockies – It looks like Justin Lawrence is back in the high-leverage mix for the Rockies, as he closed out Tuesday night’s win with his 11th save of the season. Tyler Kinley was likely down after two straight days of work, but we’ll keep an eye on this to see if it turns into a committee.
Updated hierarchy: Kinley | Lawrence | Bird.
September 6, 2023
Colorado Rockies – We thought Justin Lawrence might get a second straight night off after a heavy workload this past weekend. We were right, though it seems like Lawrence is going to see some extended time off, at least from the ninth inning. The man to replace him? None other than Tyler Kinley, who tossed a 1-2-3 inning for his second save in his last three appearances. Jake Bird pitched a perfect eighth yesterday and Matt Koch retired all three batters he faced in the seventh.
Updated hierarchy: Kinley | Bird | Koch.
September 4, 2023
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard was placed on the IL over the weekend; we’ll see if this means more high-leverage chances for Tyler Kinley, who was recently activated and got a save on Saturday.
Updated hierarchy: Lawrence | Koch | Kinley.
September 3, 2023
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies were up 3 heading into the 9th inning and called upon their closer Justin Lawrence to finish off the win. Lawrence walked the first batter he faced and then gave up a triple to cut the lead to two. He seemed to settle by getting the next two batters outs but then things really fell apart. Lawrence allowed another run to score on a wild pitch and loaded the bases with two walks and a hit by pitch. He was finally pulled and replaced by Tyler Kinley, who struck out the only batter he faced for his first save of the season. Lawrence has given up 10 earned runs over his last six appearances and his ERA is almost up to 4.00 on the season. We will see if the Rockies continue to send Lawrence out there is save chances or if they look at switching things up.
Hierarchy remains: Lawrence | Bard | Koch.
August 24, 2023
Colorado Rockies – Justin Lawrence’s rough stretch continued on Wednesday, as he suffered his third blown save over his last five appearances. Lawrence may have been a bit unlucky on Tuesday, but he’s now allowed eight earned runs over his last three outings. We’ll see just how long a leash the Rockies give Lawrence, but you have to imagine it’s getting shorter and shorter.
Updated hierarchy: Lawrence | Bard | Koch.
August 15, 2023
Colorado Rockies – Matt Koch continued his run of excellence with a scoreless 8th inning, earning the win when the Rockies rallied in the bottom half. The journeyman, who has posted a 1.64 ERA and 0.64 WHIP since his callup in late June, has made his way on to the hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Lawrence | Bard | Koch.
August 2, 2023
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies shipped Brad Hand to the Braves on Tuesday, which means Jake Bird returns to the hierarchy. One name to keep an eye on is Tyler Kinley, who was activated from the IL on Tuesday after recovering from Tommy John surgery. Kinley was one of the Rockies’ best relievers last season before his injury and may very well return to high-leverage situations this year.
Updated hierarchy: *Lawrence | Bard | Bird.
* = closer-by-committee
July 26, 2023
Colorado Rockies — With Pierce Johnson now with Atlanta, Brad Hand enters the Colorado hierarchy. Hand earned a seventh-inning hold on Tuesday ahead of what turned out to be a disastrous eighth inning for Justin Lawrence in which he blew a three-run lead against the top of the Nationals order.
Updated hierarchy: *Lawrence | Bard | Hand.
* = closer-by-committee
July 23, 2023
Colorado Rockies — After the Rockies took the lead in the top of the 9th, they sent Justin Lawrence out there for the bottom of the inning to close out the win. Lawrence responded with a scoreless inning for his 7th save of the season. Lawrence is riding a seven appearance scoreless streak and has recorded the last two saves for the Rockies. If Lawrence can keep this going, he will kick the asterisk.
Hierarchy remains: *Lawrence | Bard | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
July 8, 2023
Colorado Rockies — With a 3 run lead in the 8th inning the Rockies gave the ball to Justin Lawrence, which left the 9th inning for Daniel Bard. Bard converted for his first save on the year and his first since October of 2022. This wasn’t purely matchup based, as Lawrence got the 8-9-1 hitters while Bard got heart of the order. Bard started the year on the IL while dealing with anxiety, but has pitched very well since his return, sporting a tidy 1.76 ERA (although walking hitters at a much higher rate than usual). Bard was the presumptive closer to start the year, so if this signals a shift in how the Rockies view their bullpen he may be worth a speculative add if you’re chasing saves. Lawrence hasn’t done anything to really lose the job though, so we will leave him at the top of this committee for now.
Hierarchy remains: *Lawrence | Bard | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
July 1, 2023
Colorado Rockies — After being removed from the closers role a few weeks back, Pierce Johnson has rebounded nicely for the Rockies. Over his last 4 appearances he has a win, 2 holds and a clean save from last night, where he came in to protect a 3 run lead. It wasn’t the most difficult of save chances, but that does give him 13 total saves on the year, and he is consistently pitching in the late innings with leads, which is enough to get back into the hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: *Lawrence | Bard | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
June 22, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Jake Bird started Wednesday’s game, but only as a fill-in opener when an injury call-up couldn’t make it to Cincinnati in time. He should keep getting high-leverage looks for the Rockies.
Hierarchy remains: *Lawrence | Bard | Bird.
* = closer-by-committee
June 14, 2023
Colorado Rockies – Matt Carasiti nearly got his second Major League save 24 hours after securing his first Major League save, but he had to settle for a 10th-inning hold instead. After Carasiti allowed a leadoff homer that brought Boston within one, he induced a groundout and issued a walk. Bud Black then summoned the recently demoted Pierce Johnson to the mound. Johnson got the job done, working around a wild pitch and retiring both batters he faced for the save. Daniel Bard put together a perfect ninth inning against the top of the Boston order to send the game to extras, while Justin Lawrence got the Rockies out of a one-out jam in the seventh, stranding runners on second and third to keep the game tied.
Updated hierarchy: *Lawrence | Bard | Bird.
* = closer-by-committee
June 13, 2023
Colorado Rockies – Matt Carasiti was drafted by the Rockies in 2012. Then, in late 2022, he was re-signed by the Rockies to a minor league contract. In the 10 years in between, he had two cups of coffee in the bigs (2016 and 2019) amidst stops in eight other places, including the Tokyo Yakult Swallows and the Long Island Ducks. And yesterday, in his 8th outing of the season, he picked up his first Major League save, closing out a 10th-inning victory against the Red Sox. Congratulations, Matt – it was a long time coming.
Hierarchy remains: *Lawrence | Bird | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
June 10, 2023
Colorado Rockies — On Friday Bud Black made good on his promise to address the closer situation, kind of. He formally removed Pierce Johnson from the closer’s role, but wouldn’t name a consistent ninth inning arm going forward. The clear top pick is Justin Lawrence, who currently leads our committee, but if you believe Black will employ a committee going forward the other options are Jake Bird, who was named as a possible option, and Daniel Bard who has long time Colorado closing experience.
Updated hierarchy: *Lawrence | Bard | Hand.
* = closer-by-committee
June 9, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Pierce Johnson was given a save chance with a one-run lead and he blew it, giving up three runs on two walks and two hits. He threw 30 pitches in the ugly outing, which inflated his ERA to 7.50. After the game, manager Bud Black said he would “address” the closer situation. We’ve already taken Johnson out of the role and we have to imagine Black is intending to do the same. We’ll slide Johnson down in anticipation that a committee led by Justin Lawrence will take over. Keep an eye on Daniel Bard and Brad Hand, too.
Updated hierarchy: *Lawrence | Bard | Johnson.
* = closer-by-committee
June 8, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Justin Lawrence was used as a fireman on Wednesday, coming in with two on in the seventh with a one-run lead. When he escaped that jam, he stayed in for the eighth, but gave up the go-ahead run on a squeeze bunt. If Lawrence keeps getting summoned in high-leverage spots before the ninth, his asterisk could be a permanent appendage.
Hierarchy remains: *Lawrence | Johnson | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
June 4, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Justin Lawrence picked up his second straight save and this was a little more conventional. Lawrence came on to get the last out of the 8th inning with the Rockies up 3 and stuck around to pitch the 9th and close out the win. Pierce Johnson has really struggled recently ( 7 earned runs over his last 4 appearances) and since Lawrence got the save chance over him yesterday, we will move Lawrence to the head of this committee. We will see if Lawrence and his devastating sweeper can take over this job for good or if Johnson will stay in the mix.
Hierarchy remains: *Lawrence | Johnson | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
June 3, 2023
Colorado Rockies — The Vulture Save Watch predicted that Justin Lawrence would get the save last night, and that’s what happened, although it wasn’t a very conventional. Colorado entered the 9th with a 5 run lead, but after Daniel Bard loaded the bases with 2 outs they went to Lawrence. As all bullpen junkies know rule 9.19 says that a save is recorded when a pitcher (1) finishes the game, (2) is not the winning pitcher and (3) meets one of the “save criteria” the second of which is entering the game, regardless of score, with the tying run either on base, at bat or on deck. Congratulations to the vulture save watch and to Justin Lawrence for his 5 run lead, 1 batter save.
Hierarchy remains: *Johnson | Lawrence | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
June 2, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Pierce Johnson failed to protect the Rockies’ lead Thursday, yielding two runs to blow the save and take the loss, leaving him with a 6.85 ERA and 1.88 WHIP. Yikes. How long can this go on? Former closer Daniel Bard has been awesome this year in limited action (0.57 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 11 Ks over 15 IP), and as soon as he’s ready for more higher leverage work, you’d have to think a change is coming.
Hierarchy remains: *Johnson | Lawrence | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
May 26, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Pierce Johnson had a nightmare appearance Thursday, recording just two outs and yielding four runs on four hits (two HRs) and a walk. He has 10 saves but his ERA is now 6.59 with an ugly 1.89 WHIP. Yeesh. Justin Lawrence looms as an option for saves, but don’t sleep on Daniel Bard, who continues to pitch in lower leverage but has been impressive (0.69 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 10 Ks in 13.0 IP).
Hierarchy remains: *Johnson | Lawrence | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
May 11, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Pierce Johnson picked up his sixth save of the season on Wednesday, and Justin Lawrence seems to be his full-time setup man at this point. One more save for Johnson and we’ll probably pull his asterisk.
Updated hierarchy: *Johnson | Lawrence | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
May 7, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Pierce Johnson pitched a scoreless 9th inning with a pair of strikeouts for his 5th save of the season. Daniel Bard still has not allowed a run since returning but continues to be used in low-leverage situations. Johnson is clearly the guy to own right now but we will see if Bard can work his way back to save situations or if Johnson will run away with the job.
Hierarchy remains: *Johnson | Bard | Lawrence.
* = closer-by-committee
May 4, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Daniel Bard pitched in the seventh on Wednesday with a four-run lead, and that’s enough for us to swap him with Pierce Johnson at the top of the Colorado closer committee. Justin Lawrence (four holds, 1.65 ERA) and lefty Brent Suter are also in the mix, along with Bard and Brad Hand.
Updated hierarchy: *Johnson | Bard | Lawrence.
* = closer-by-committee
May 3, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Save chances have been few and far between for the Rockies, but when they got one last night it went to Pierce Johnson, who recorded his fourth save of the season. Daniel Bard has only pitched four times since his return from the injured list, and while he has allowed just one hit in 4.1 scoreless innings, didn’t seem to be available last night with a lead to protect. We’ll slap an asterisk on this hierarchy for now and hope for some more clarity on this bullpen, but Johnson appears to be the guy to own in Colorado right now.
Updated hierarchy: *Bard | Johnson | Hand.
* = closer-by-committee
April 20, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Daniel Bard returned from the injured list and had an uneventful eighth inning with the Rockies up 11. He should immediately resume his role as Colorado’s regular closer.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Johnson | Hand.
April 7, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Pierce Johnson has the first two saves for the Rockies this season, including one Thursday night against the Nationals. Another save for Johnson could lead us to drop the asterisk here, too, at least until Daniel Bard, who is working on his mechanics during side sessions but is not yet ready for game action, returns.
Hierarchy remains: *Johnson | Hand | Lamet.
* = closer-by-committee
April 1, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Colorado held a 4 run lead last night, so we did get to see the committee in action. Brad Hand took the 8th inning and surrendered a run, leaving a save situation for Pierce Johnson. Johnson struck out 2 on the way to his first career save. As with all committees, this one will likely be flexible, but Johnson seems to have the inside track for now.
Hierarchy remains: *Johnson | Hand | Lamet.
* = closer-by-committee
March 31, 2023
Colorado Rockies — After placing Daniel Bard on the injured list so he can deal with anxiety issues, the Rockies held a 5-run lead on Opening Day, so committee leaders Pierce Johnson and Brad Hand were not used. This situation is very fluid so stay tuned.
Hierarchy remains: *Johnson | Hand | Lamet.
* = closer-by-committee
March 30, 2023
Colorado Rockies — Closer Daniel Bard was placed on the injured list Thursday because of anxiety issues. In his place, expect Pierce Johnson and Brad Hand to handle save chances. Dinelson Lamet slides into the hierarchy, too, and could factor in.
Updated hierarchy: *Johnson | Hand | Lamet.
* = closer-by-committee
March 16, 2023
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard remains as the Rockies’ closer, but the rest of the bullpen is intriguing with newcomers Pierce Johnson and Brad Hand expected to be in the late-innings mix. Justin Lawrence is also someone that has a good chance to pitch in high-leverage spots. One name to keep an eye on is Tyler Kinley, who was having a terrific season in 2022 before suffering a season-ending injury. He is expected to return midseason.
Starting 2023 hierarchy: Bard | Johnson | Hand.
Holds candidates: Johnson, Hand, Lawrence, Brent Suter.
October 4, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Justin Lawrence got his first save of the season, locking down a 1-run victory. Daniel Bard had pitched two innings on Sunday and got the day off.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Lamet | Lawrence.
September 28, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Carlos Estevez was placed on the COVID IL Tuesday. Bud Black said that Estevez has flu-like symptoms and that he hopes that Estevez will bounce back quickly.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Lamet | Bird.
August 28, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Alex Colome has been activated from the IL, while Lucas Gilbreath has been placed on the IL with a left elbow strain.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Estevez | Colome.
August 14, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Alex Colome has been placed on the IL. Lucas Gilbreath will slide into Colome’s spot in the hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Estevez | Gilbreath.
August 13, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard threw 30 pitches on Thursday which earned him a night off on Friday. This left the save chance to Carlos Estevez, who converted for his second of the year. Daniel Bard is in no danger of losing his job, but lately it has been Estevez getting the high leverage chances over Alex Colome. This is enough to put him first in line for the Rockies.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Estevez | Colome.
July 15, 2022
Colorado Rockies – As an astute follower of the Vulture Save Watch, this is news you already know since he was in your lineup. But for those who didn’t heed the advice… Carlos Estevez pitched a scoreless ninth Thursday for his first save. Daniel Bard had gone in three of four, and Alex Colome battled hamstring cramps earlier this week and is day to day.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Colome | Estevez.
July 13, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Alex Colome left last night’s game in the middle of the eighth inning with a hamstring cramp. The Rockies will know more today on the severity of Colome’s injury.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Colome | Estevez.
July 9, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Vulture Save Watch readers knew that Daniel Bard had pitched in two straight games, so the 9th inning fell to Alex Colome. He gave up a run, but successfully converted the save chance. Bard should be back in action today.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Colome | Estevez.
June 15, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Tyler Kinley is on the IL with an elbow injury and unfortunately the prognosis isn’t good, with Tommy John surgery a possibility. We’ll add Carlos Estevez back to the hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Colome | Estevez.
June 10, 2022
Colorado Rockies – With Daniel Bard, Alex Colome, and Tyler Kinley all having pitched in two straight games, it wasn’t clear who the Rockies would go with if they had a lead in the 9th, but it turns out that of the group, Colome was apparently the most ready for a third straight day. The veteran’s durability meant he was able to pick up his third save of the season.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Colome | Kinley.
June 8, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Tyler Kinley pitched a scoreless seventh on Tuesday to earn his team-leading 10th hold of the season and lower his ERA to 0.78.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Colome | Kinley.
April 24, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Alex Colome made things interesting in the 9th inning yesterday but ultimately was able to lock down his second save. Daniel Bard was unavailable yesterday, but it wasn’t due to usage since he hasn’t pitched since Tuesday. We will keep an eye on this and see if Bard will miss additional time.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Colome | Kinley.
April 19, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Alex Colome picked up his first save of the season on Monday, and through 10 games, the surprising Rockies have the best bullpen ERA (1.88) in baseball. Daniel Bard’s absence was curious, but given his early success and the lack of any postgame notes, we’re assuming for now that the Rockies wanted to give the 36-year-old righty two consecutive days off after pitching him in 5 of their first 8 games. If Colome (or Carlos Estevez) picks up another save, however, the committee tag will return.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Colome | Estevez.
April 17, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard pitched a scoreless 9th last night for his 4th save of the season. Neither Alex Colome nor Carlos Estevez has any saves so far and that’s enough to kick the committee tag here. A fun note about the Rockies so far is that all eight of their games have resulted in saves.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Colome | Estevez.
April 13, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard bounced back from Monday’s blown save by closing out Tuesday’s win. Bard continues to look like the guy to own in Colorado. Carlos Estevez pitched the eighth on Tuesday, as Alex Colome got the day off after throwing 49 pitches over the past three games.
Hierarchy remains: *Bard | Colome | Estevez.
* = closer-by-committee
April 12, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Ashton Goudeau pitched the 10th inning in Colorado’s win on Monday, earning his first career save. The rest of the hierarchy had already appeared earlier in the game, so this doesn’t figure to amount to much.
Hierarchy remains: *Bard | Colome | Estevez.
* = closer-by-committee
April 11, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Ty Blach, who hadn’t pitched in the bigs since 2019, earned the rarely-seen four-inning save for the Rockies on Sunday, posting four scoreless frames — at home against the hard-hitting Dodgers, no less. Welcome back to the bigs, Ty!
Hierarchy remains: *Bard | Colome | Estevez.
* = closer-by-committee
April 10, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard struck out the side in a perfect 9th inning to record the Rockies’ first save of the season. Alex Colome struggled in the 8th inning ahead of Bard and manager Bud Black acknowledged he would prefer Colome to pitch at a faster pace. Bard moves to the head of the committee and at least one beat writer thinks Bard will be the closer going forward. We are a little skeptical given Bard’s struggles in the role last year, but if he can convert a couple more saves early in the season, he will kick the asterisk.
Updated hierarchy: *Bard | Colome | Estevez
*= closer-by-committee
April 4, 2022
Colorado Rockies – When the Rockies signed Alex Colome, it seemed on that bringing in an established closer on a guaranteed contract would establish that there’s one closing candidate in Colorado. That’s not necessarily true, according to manager Bud Black. Colome, Daniel Bard and Carlos Estevez are seen as strong late-inning options. He says he the team will have a “guy in mind” for the ninth once the season begins, but until it does, let’s go ahead and apply the committee tag.
Updated hierarchy: Colome* | Bard | Estevez
*= closer-by-committee
March 24, 2022
Colorado Rockies – Alex Colome’s solid groundball rate should make him a fair candidate to find closing success at Coors Field. If he runs into trouble, he’ll be backed up by last year’s main (and mediocre) options: Carlos Estevez and Daniel Bard.
Starting 2022 hierarchy: Colome | Estevez | Bard.
Holds candidates: Estevez, Bard, Robert Stephenson.
September 16, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Robert Stephenson’s first outing in eight days was a tenth-inning save, the second of his career (you know we covered the first). Stephenson’s save also gives us the opportunity to recognize that Daniel Bard has fallen out of the hierarchy, with Jhoulys Chacin locking down the eighth and Tyler Kinley owning the seventh.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Chacin | Kinley.
August 28, 2021
Colorado Rockies – We warned you on Thursday and alerted you last night; Daniel Bard has been replaced by Carlos Estevez — at least for now — in Colorado.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Bard | Chacin.
August 27, 2021
Colorado Rockies – As we noted on Wednesday, Daniel Bard’s recent struggles were getting too big to ignore. Bard had a long talk with manager Bud Black before today’s game, and when the Rockies had a 1 run over the Dodgers lead going into the late innings, Bard took the 8th and Carlos Estevez got the 9th for his 3rd save on the year. Estevez wasn’t perfect, but he struck out the side and only gave up a leadoff single. Bard may work through this slump, but for now Estevez is the top choice in Colorado.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Bard | Chacin.
August 26, 2021
Colorado Rockies — With a three-run homer that would have been an out in any stadium but Wrigley, Daniel Bard blew his eighth save of the year and put his position as Colorado’s closer in serious danger. The Rockies came back to win the game, but Bud Black said the coaching staff will talk over what to do going into Thursday’s off day. We’d give Carlos Estevez (two saves, 8.74 K/9, 4.14 FIP) an edge over Jhoulys Chacin (no career saves, 6.89 K/9, 4.76 FIP) if you’re looking to speculate in the meantime.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Estevez | Chacin.
July 31, 2021
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies held on to their closer Daniel Bard at the trade deadline, but they did trade away their set-up man, Mychal Givens. Carlos Estevez and former starter Jhoulys Chacin should see more time in the later innings with Givens gone.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Estevez | Chacin.
July 24, 2021
Colorado Rockies — Daniel Bard wasn’t able to hold a one-run lead in the ninth, sending Friday’s game to extra innings. When Colorado scored three in the top of the tenth, they turned to Lucas Gilbreath to close, and he got the job done for his first career save. Gilbreath is having an up and down rookie season and won’t be cracking the hierarchy anytime soon.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Givens | Estevez.
July 7, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Mychal Givens has been activated from the injured list and will move right back into high-leverage work for the Rockies.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Givens | Estevez.
June 18, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Mychal Givens has a lower back strain and was placed on the IL on Thursday.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Estevez | Kinley.
May 25, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard got the night off on Monday after pitching two straight, and the Rockies went to Carlos Estevez to hold a one-run lead in the 9th. Estevez converted, which pushes him up to the handcuff spot for Colorado.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Estevez | Givens.
May 3, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Having been used sparingly in recent weeks, the Rockies went to closer Daniel Bard in a tie game in the 8th inning on Sunday. Bard seemed to have good stuff, hitting 99 on the gun, but the result was a disastrous outing that ballooned his ERA to 9.00. After the game, Bard said he had to look at sequencing and/or whether he’s tipping pitches, but we have to think that he’s on shaky ground right now. Mychal Givens is the likely handcuff.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Givens | Stephenson.
April 28, 2021
Colorado Rockies – After Daniel Bard blew a save in the ninth inning, Carlos Estevez came on in the 10th to earn the save after Colorado retook the lead in the top half of the frame. Estevez hasn’t really factored into the Rockies’ high-leverage plans, but neither has Yency Almonte, who was curiously absent from last night’s action. Robert Stephenson has put together five straight scoreless outings, and while he doesn’t have a hold yet, he’s probably a better option than Almonte is right now.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Givens | Stephenson.
April 1, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Scott Oberg will be out indefinitely after undergoing surgery to remove blood clots. Yency Almonte should see more time in the later innings with Oberg sidelined.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Givens | Almonte.
March 13, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Bud Black said that Daniel Bard will start the season as the Rockies’ closer. Scott Oberg made his spring debut on Friday, and the plan is to have him pitch in eight different outings and see how he feels after each one. That will determine whether he begins the season on the active roster. We’ll keep him in the hierarchy for now and see how he progresses through the rest of March.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Givens | Oberg.
March 5, 2021
Colorado Rockies – Scott Oberg is healthy again, which is good news for a bullpen that posted a 6.77 ERA last year. Oberg and Daniel Bard are the two guys competing for the ninth inning. Mychal Givens closed in Baltimore but struggled when he arrived in Denver via trade last year. Yency Almonte wasn’t bad last year and may see some more high-leverage looks.
Starting 2021 hierarchy: Oberg | Bard | Givens.
Holds candidates: Bard, Givens, Almonte.
September 25, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Jairo Diaz picked up his fourth save of the season Thursday, but only because Daniel Bard and Mychal Givens had already pitched. Bard threw 2.2 innings to earn the win. Diaz (8.05 ERA) hadn’t pitched in a Rockies win since Aug. 26, suggesting he’s far away from the ninth-inning job, especially with only a few days to go in the season.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Givens | Almonte.
September 21, 2020
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies asked Daniel Bard to get the last four outs of the game on Sunday, but a few hits and walks pushed his pitch count up, and so Mychal Givens came on for the final hitter, needing just one pitch to notch his first save of the year. Bard should still be the closer for the season’s final week.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Givens | Almonte.
September 19, 2020
Colorado Rockies — With four runs allowed in two-thirds of an inning on Friday, Wade Davis saw his ERA balloon to 20.77. At this rate, we can’t see Davis getting a save chance anytime soon.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Givens | Almonte.
September 13, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Wade Davis has been activated from the injured list. Daniel Bard has been solid as the closer, converting all six of his chances, and Davis will not take his job at this point. However, the Rockies bullpen as a whole has struggled this year so Davis could see some late-inning action pretty quickly if he can pitch well.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Givens | Davis.
September 8, 2020
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies held the Padres scoreless without a run through 8 innings via Kyle Freeland, Yency Almonte, and Mychel Givens, but Carlos Estevez couldn’t keep the game scoreless, allowing hits to the first two hitters he faced. We suspect that Estevez, who now has an ERA of 6.41, has likely fallen down the hierarchy given his struggles in recent weeks.
Updated hierarchy: Bard | Givens | Almonte.
September 6, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Daniel Bard struck out a pair in a scoreless inning yesterday to pick up his 5th save of the season. Bard has now recorded the last two Rockies’ saves and four of the last five and that is enough to kick the committee tag.
Hierarchy remains: Bard | Estevez | Givens.
August 31, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Jairo Diaz’s struggles continued, as he allowed 3 runs in a lopsided loss to the Padres. The recently-acquired Mychal Givens should see some action in the late innings here.
Updated hierarchy: *Bard | Estevez | Givens.
* = closer-by-committee
August 27, 2020
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies were cruising with a 5 run lead going into the 9th, but when Tyler Kinley allowed the first two batters to reach base, he was pulled for vulture save watch pick Jairo Diaz. Diaz got two quick outs (and let an inherited runner score) before the wheels really came off. A hit batsman and two singles left the tying run on third, and saw Diaz pulled for Jeff Hoffman. Hoffman walked the bases loaded, but got a strikeout to end the game and earn his first career save. Hoffman is not typically a late inning arm for the Rockies, and this was a game where a couple of their top arms were unavailable, so we don’t see Hoffman cracking the hierarchy anytime soon.
Hierarchy remains: *Bard | Estevez | Diaz.
* = closer-by-committee
August 25, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Protecting a one-run lead from the 5th inning onward, the Rockies first tapped Carlos Estevez to get out of a sticky situation in the 7th, leaving him in for the 8th after he escaped the jam. That left the 9th to Daniel Bard, who converted the save, his second of the season. Jairo Diaz did not appear, so it seems Bard and Estevez have jumped him in this committee.
Updated hierarchy: *Bard | Estevez | Diaz.
* = closer-by-committee
August 17, 2020
Colorado Rockies – After a rocky outing from Jairo Diaz on Sunday — Carlos Estevez bailed him out for his first save of the year — Bud Black said he would no longer have a designated 9th inning reliever. We were already treating this as a committee, but now that we’ve gotten confirmation, look for Diaz, Estevez, and Daniel Bard to share opportunities.
Updated hierarchy: *Diaz | Estevez | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
August 12, 2020
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies seemingly had Tuesday’s game locked up after a six-run eighth inning spotted them an 8-2 lead, but Phillip Diehl and Jairo Diaz could only muster one out apiece as Arizona cut the lead to 8-7. That set the stage for Daniel Bard to come in and strike out Stephen Vogt to strand two runners and earn his first save since June 5, 2011, when Bard was with the Red Sox.
Hierarchy remains: *Diaz | Estevez | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
August 5, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Yency Almonte needed just one pitch to induce an inning-ending double play and preserve a 5-2 lead in Tuesday’s eighth inning. He came back out for the ninth and got another double play en route to collecting his first big-league save. Both Jairo Diaz and Carlos Estevez were unavailable, and manager Bud Black wanted to avoid using Daniel Bard unless it was absolutely necessary, which paved the way for Almonte’s opportunity.
Hierarchy remains: *Diaz | Estevez | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
August 3, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Wade Davis was placed on the 10-day IL Sunday with a right shoulder strain. Jairo Diaz picked up the 1-out save in his absence, following a somewhat shaky inning of work from Carlos Estevez, who allowed three inherited runners to score in the 8th and an additional run in the 9th. Still, he’s probably second to Diaz in this hierarchy. With this shakeup, we’d also like to tip our cap to Daniel Bard, who claims the record for “longest stretches between appearances on a Closer Monkey hierarchy,” as we’re adding him at 2nd in line. Bard last appeared on a hierarchy in the November 2011 — the fifth month of this site’s existence — when he was briefly elevated to the closer role for the Red Sox (behind him: Alfredo Aceves and Franklin Morales) in the short period between the departure of Jonathan Papelbon and the signing of Mark Melancon. Bard would shift to the rotation soon after, and though the Sox did put him back in the bullpen before releasing him — and while he had short minor league stints with four other teams (as well as a career eulogy on one of our All Star Break shitposts) — he never made it back to a hierarchy. Until now. A heartfelt congratulations, Daniel.
Updated hierarchy: *Diaz | Estevez | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
August 2, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Wade Davis was placed on the 10-day IL Sunday with a right shoulder strain. We expect Jairo Diaz and Carlos Estevez to be the early frontrunners for the ninth inning.
Updated hierarchy: *Diaz | Estevez | Bard.
* = closer-by-committee
July 26, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Wade Davis gave up a run but was still able to record his first save of the season. However, the biggest story of the night was Daniel Bard. Pitching in the majors for the first time in a long time, Bard threw 1.1 scoreless innings to pick up the win. We aren’t quite ready to put Bard on the hierarchy yet, but he did hit 99 on the radar gun.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Diaz | Estevez.
July 24, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Scott Oberg was a popular pick for teams looking to bet against Wade Davis making it all the way through the season as the Rockies’ closer. However, Oberg himself is beginning the shortened season on the IL with a lower back strain. Bud Black expressed confidence that he could count on both Jairo Diaz and Carlos Estevez in the late innings.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Diaz | Estevez.
February 26, 2020
Colorado Rockies – Going into spring training, Bud Black would like to see Wade Davis in the closer’s role, but he is certain to be on a short leash given his woeful 2019 campaign. While some of that could be chalked up to Davis pitching through injuries, it’s hard to ignore a final ERA over 8. Scott Oberg was quite effective for most of the year, but ended the season with surgery to fix a blood clot in his arm. Oberg is healthy for spring training and looks to be a top setup option for the Rockies. Jairo Diaz finished the season in the closers role, and will likely be a late-inning arm for Colorado this season as well. Veterans Jake McGee and Bryan Shaw, both of whom have closing experience, will also be in the mix. A dark horse for saves later in the year is Carlos Estevez. Estevez has a triple-digit fastball and is a low-cost reliever with team control through 2022; if the Rockies sell at some point he could ascend to the closer’s role. For now we trust Black when he says he wants Davis as the closer, but expect some volatility from the Rockies as they compete in a tough division.
Starting 2020 hierarchy: Davis | Oberg | Diaz.
Holds candidates: Oberg, Diaz, McGee, Estevez, Shaw.
September 25, 2019
Colorado Rockies – The Colorado Rockies and San Francisco Giants set a major league record by using a combined 25 pitchers on Tuesday. The 25th pitcher of the night was Bryan Shaw and he pitched a scoreless bottom of the 16th for his first save of the season. Jairo Diaz and Carlos Estevez were two of the other 24 pitchers used earlier in the game.
Hierarchy remains: Diaz | Estevez | Shaw.
September 15, 2019
Colorado Rockies – Jesus Tinoco recorded his first career save yesterday as the Rockies rested both Jairo Diaz and Carlos Estevez. This was extrmely surprising as Tinoco has only one hold this season and before yesterday had given up at least one earned run in 5 straight appearances and and 7 of his last 8.
Hierarchy remains: Diaz | Estevez | Shaw.
September 11, 2019
Colorado Rockies – Jairo Diaz picked up a 2-inning save on Tuesday and clearly Bud Black’s go-to guy in Colorado. We’ll kick away his asterisk.
Updated hierarchy: Diaz | Estevez | Shaw.
September 7, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Jairo Diaz earned his first save since taking over as head of the Rockies’ closer committee, and is the guy to own for the rest of the season in Colorado.
Hierarchy remains: *Diaz | Estevez | Shaw.
* = closer-by-committee
August 27, 2019
Colorado Rockies – Jairo Diaz got the first Rockies save chance since the demotion of Wade Davis and promptly gave up the game-tying run. The Rockies walked off in the bottom half of the inning, though, so this wasn’t a total failure for Diaz. We’ll bump him to the top of the committee and see what the Rockies do next.
Updated hierarchy: *Diaz | Estevez | Shaw.
* = closer-by-committee
August 20, 2019
Colorado Rockies – Summoned in a tie game in the 8th inning, Wade Davis gave up 3 earned runs for the second straight night. Jake McGee got the final out of the inning. We’re bumping Davis from this hierarchy temporarily until he has a good outing.
Updated hierarchy: *Estevez | Diaz | Shaw.
* = closer-by-committee
August 19, 2019
Colorado Rockies – On Sunday morning, the Rockies placed Scott Oberg on the IL with a blood clot in his arm — reportedly, his season is over — and it took all of several hours for his replacement, Wade Davis, to blow the first subsequent Rockies save chance. We figured Davis would get the first look, but what happens now is anyone’s guess. Jake McGee, Carlos Estevez, and Bryan Shaw have all closed at various points in their career; of those three, only Estevez has pitched well as of late. Jairo Diaz could also get a look, as he’s got a high strikeout rate. We’ll slide Estevez to the top of the committee for now with the caveat that this is an educated guess at best. Complicating matters is that Estevez has gone three innings in the last two days and won’t pitch today; if someone else has success then they could easily vault him.
Updated hierarchy: *Estevez | Diaz | Davis.
* = closer-by-committee
August 18, 2019
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies placed Scott Oberg on the IL with a blood clot in his arm. It seems likely that Wade Davis will return to the closer role in Oberg’s absence, though Bryan Shaw or Jake McGee could also factor in.
Updated hierarchy: *Davis | Shaw | McGee
* = closer-by-committee
August 3, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Bud Black announced that Scott Oberg will take over as closer “for the time being,” and that Wade Davis will move to the middle innings. Oberg got his first opportunity in his new role last night, coming in to protect a one-run lead. He gave up a pair of singles before inducing a game-ending double play to earn his fourth save on the year. Oberg has been excellent this year, including as a fill-in closer when Davis injured his oblique. Davis has had a frustrating year, posting a remarkable 0.68 ERA on the road but an ugly 11.29 at Coors Field, with a five-run meltdown on Wednesday serving as the last straw.
Updated hierarchy: Oberg | Shaw | Davis.
August 2, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Bud Black announced today that Scott Oberg will take over as closer “for the time being.” Black said that Wade Davis will move to the middle innings.
Updated hierarchy: Oberg | Shaw | Davis.
August 1, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis pitched at home on Wednesday, so you know what happened next: two dingers and five earned runs. Davis’s splits continue to be otherworldly, and it’s anyone’s guess how long Bud Black can keep running him out there instead of Scott Oberg.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
July 26, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis has struggled recently, but he looked sharp Thursday against the Nationals in DC, striking out the side while allowing a lone walk to record the save. It’s very simple for fantasy owners: start Davis on the road (0.68 ERA, .178 BAA, 7 saves) and absolutely avoid him at Coors Field (0-4, 9.53 ERA, .301 BAA). Scott Oberg (1.65 ERA, 1.00 WHIP), who has been good everywhere, looms as a viable replacement for Davis in the ninth.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
July 17, 2019
Colorado Rockies — With four straight scoreless outings, things had been quiet on the Wade Davis beat. Maybe too quiet. Last night, the Rockies rallied from three down against Will Smith to tie the score — then brought in Davis, who gave it all back and then some. Maybe Davis should pitch exclusively on the road, where his ERA (0.79) is 12 times better than at Coors Field (9.53).
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 30, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis struck out a pair in a perfect ninth inning yesterday to pick up the save. Davis threw nine of his twelve pitches for strikes and it was especially encouraging because the game was in Colorado, where he has really struggled this year. It’s worth noting that Scott Oberg was unavailable on Saturday night. We will see what the Rockies do next but yesterday’s appearance could allow Davis to hold off Oberg at least for now.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 29, 2019
Colorado Rockies — After Thursday’s brutal outing, Bud Black has said that the Rockies are “contemplating a few things” with regards to Wade Davis’ role in the bullpen, specifically pointing to his walk rate as a concern. Meanwhile, Scott Oberg’s excellent year continued last night, as he pitched a scoreless ninth in a four-run game. It is possible that Davis still has the closer’s role, as he would have been unavailable yesterday after having pitched in back-to-back games and three of the last four. We told you yesterday that Scott Oberg was a good speculative add; today he looks like a must get, although he is likely unavailable today after pitching three in a row and five of the last six.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 28, 2019
Colorado Rockies — It was a rough night for Wade Davis, who entered a tie game in the ninth and allowed four runs on an RBI single and a three-run blast. Davis now has a 6.00 ERA and a 1.83 WHIP. Yuck! Stash Scott Oberg if you haven’t already. For what it’s worth, manager Bud Black pointed to Davis’s resume and suggested that he’ll be fine.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 25, 2019
Colorado Rockies – Wade Davis pitched a 1-2-3 inning last night for his second save since returning from the IL, but count us among those who are still concerned about his recent performance. Since returning, he’s posted a 9.82 ERA, a 2.32 WHIP over 7.1 innings, and he has struck out six batters against five walks. Perhaps most concerning of all is that his velocity is down, suggesting that his poor performance isn’t just bad luck. Scott Oberg might be worth a roster spot if he’s available in your league.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 21, 2019
Colorado Rockies — When the Rockies took the lead in the tenth inning on Thursday, manager Bud Black stuck with Scott Oberg for a second inning, and he slammed the door to earn the win. Where was struggling Wade Davis? Apparently unavailable, which Black mentioned before stressing that Oberg is not the new closer. Davis has allowed runs in every appearance since returning from the IL, and has a WHIP (1.80) more than 50 points higher than Hyun-Jin Ryu’s ERA (1.26)! Okay, that might not be fair — Ryu is nasty. Anyway, this Oberg-Davis situation bears watching, so stay tuned.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 20, 2019
Colorado Rockies – The struggling Wade Davis got a chance to right the ship on Wednesday when he entered the ninth inning with a three-run lead. He struck out the first batter he faced before allowing a solo home run. Davis bounced back with another strikeout and then stranded a runner at second to end the game, but he has now allowed an earned run in four straight appearances. Meanwhile, Scott Oberg cruised through 1.2 innings of work to get the ball to Davis. The Rockies pay Davis a lot of money to close games, but if he keeps giving up runs they soon could find it more productive to pay him a lot of money to watch Oberg close games instead.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 17, 2019
Colorado Rockies – The Padres managed to win a game on Sunday in which their starter allowed 9 runs in 1.1 innings, and it was in part due to another brutal outing from Wade Davis, who has now allowed 7 earned runs in 4.1 innings since returning from the IL. Scott Oberg, meanwhile, continues to cruise along with a 1.67 ERA. Davis could be on thin ice.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 8, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis returned from the IL to pitch the ninth inning in a four-run game. He gave up a pair of hits, but no runs. Davis returns right back to the top of this hierarchy, while Scott Oberg and Bryan Shaw will slide back to their earlier spots.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
June 7, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis is feeling good and could return to action as early as this weekend. Scott Oberg nailed down his third save Thursday and has filled in admirably, but will give the job back to Davis when the time comes.
Hierarchy remains: Oberg | Shaw | Estevez.
June 2, 2019
Colorado Rockies — After a ninth-inning error extended the game and a double cut the Rockies lead to two, Scott Oberg was summoned for the last out of the game. He was able to induce a ground out from the only batter he faced to pick up his second save of the season. Meanwhile, Wade Davis had no problems after his bullpen session, which was the first since his injury. Although there is no exact timetable for his return, it should be relatively soon barring any setbacks.
Hierarchy remains: Oberg | Shaw | Estevez.
June 1, 2019
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies won in a blowout last night, but the news from the bullpen is that Wade Davis is close to returning. He has started a throwing program and threw a bullpen session. Davis will resume closing for the Rockies once he returns, so it’s time to squeeze any last value out of Scott Oberg and company.
Hierarchy remains: Oberg | Shaw | Estevez.
May 29, 2019
Colorado Rockies — Chad Bettis retired three of the four hitters he faced in the eighth inning to keep the Rockies ahead, 4-2. When Colorado added two more runs in the ninth, Bettis returned to the hill and used a 1-2-3 inning to earn his first career save. Bettis, who began the year in the rotation, has turned in six scoreless outings over his last seven appearances out of the bullpen. He may be in line for more holds, especially multi-inning holds, if he continues to pitch well. He certainly came through for a tired Rockies bullpen on Tuesday, with Scott Oberg and Bryan Shaw desperately needing an off day.
Hierarchy remains: Oberg | Shaw | Estevez.
May 23, 2019
Colorado Rockies — As we told you yesterday, Scott Oberg will fill in as the Rockies’ closer while Wade Davis recovers from an oblique injury. Davis’s injury is not believed to be severe.
Updated hierarchy: Oberg | Shaw | Estevez.
May 22, 2019
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies placed Wade Davis on the IL with an oblique strain. Look for Scott Oberg to close in his place for the time being.
Updated hierarchy: Oberg | Shaw | Estevez.
May 13, 2019
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies were hoping that a struggling Seunghwan Oh could close out a 7-run blowout on Sunday, but the righty struggled, and needed Scott Oberg’s help to finish out the game. Oh now has a 10.05 ERA on the year, and we’d expect the Rockies to give more chances to Bryan Shaw and Carlos Estevez until Oh returns to form.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Oberg | Shaw.
February 21, 2019
Colorado Rockies – With Adam Ottavino and his Bambino-baffling slider off to the Bronx, the Rockies will rely on veterans like Scott Oberg, Seunghwan Oh, and Bryan Shaw to get the ball to $18 million closer Wade Davis. Mike Dunn and Jake McGee are still around too, hoping to move past their disappointing 2018 seasons and finally give Colorado a bullpen that produces in line with its high price tag.
Starting 2019 hierarchy: Davis | Oberg | Oh.
Holds candidates: Oberg, Oh, Shaw, Chris Rusin.
September 28, 2018
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies, Dodgers, and Cardinals are fighting for two available playoff spots (well, the Cardinals have a shot at only one of them, as either the Cubs or Brewers will win the NL Central). Expect the next three games to be pseudo-playoff games, featuring the team’s best bullpen arms. So a rested Wade Davis, who nabbed a save Thursday night, may be used plenty this weekend for the Rockies.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
September 6, 2018
Colorado Rockies — There was only one vulture save option on the board yesterday, but it was a profitable one, as Adam Ottavino did in fact secure a save in Wade Davis’s absence.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
August 19, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis converted his 34th save of the season on Saturday night. Since giving up three runs on August 9th, Davis has strung together four straight scoreless appearances, picking up a win and two saves during that time. He may be back on track and seems to have cooled down his hot seat for now.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
August 11, 2018
Colorado Rockies — One night after Wade Davis had another rough outing, Adam Ottavino shut the door in the ninth inning for his fifth save of the year. Ottavino’s ERA now sits nearly four full runs better than Davis’. Davis has taken the loss in three of his last four appearances, though he claims to have found some easy fixes to his issues. Bud Black still has not officially made a change at closer, but the Rockies still have playoff ambitions and Ottavino’s numbers are too good to ignore. You should pick Ottavino up if he is still available in case Black finally makes a decision and removes Davis from the ninth inning.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
August 10, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis’s days as Rockies closer are numbered — or they should be, after Thursday night’s loss sent his ERA soaring to 5.51 and turned the Rockies’ official Twitter account into a group therapy session. Adam Ottavino has been dynamite this year and would likely have the job all to his lonesome if Davis is removed from the role.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
August 6, 2018
Colorado Rockies – Wade Davis got a second day off after blowing consecutive games on Thursday and Friday, but Adam Ottavino couldn’t hold the 9th inning lead in his place. Instead, the Rockies needed an extra-inning rally, leaving the save chance to Seung-Hwan Oh, who converted.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
August 4, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Wade Davis was given a lead for the second night in a row, and for the second night in a row he blew the save and took the loss in walk-off fashion. Last night it was a three-run homer by Eric Thames that handed Davis his 6th blown save of the year. It may not be his last blown save, though, as after the game Bud Black said that Davis will remain closer and that he will be fine. We’ll see just how long Black keeps his faith in Davis and his 5.09 ERA though, as Adam Ottavino pitched a clean 8th and has a sparkling 1.35 ERA. With the Rockies trying desperately to hang in the playoff race, Davis should be on a short leash.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
July 28, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino shut the door on Oakland last night to pick up his fourth save of the year. After the game, manager Bud Black said that Wade Davis was getting some extra rest after a couple tough outings against the Astros. We expect that Davis will be available today.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
July 26, 2018
Colorado Rockies — We expect newly-acquired Seung-Hwan Oh to shore up the seventh inning for the Rockies. Oh might not be “The Final Boss” anymore, but he’s still a pretty tough one: think Mouser or Bald Bull.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Ottavino | Oh.
July 21, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino got the last out of the 8th inning and stuck around for the 9th to record his third save of the year. Wade Davis was recovering from an illness and had been sent back to the hotel prior to the game. Bud Black did not indicate how serious the illness was, so we expect Davis to be day-to-day going forward.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
July 12, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Bryan Shaw is back from the disabled list and predicting a return to form commensurate with his large contract.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
July 1, 2018
Colorado Rockies — As predicted by the Vulture Save Watch, Wade Davis got the day off on Saturday and Adam Ottavino recorded his second save of the season. Ottavino should continue to see save chances when Davis is unavailable.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
June 22, 2018
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies bullpen has been taxed lately, so (as predicted) manager Bud Black took his chances with an overworked Jake McGee with a lead in the ninth. McGee allowed a run but delivered his first save of the season. He has now pitched in four of five. Adam Ottavino and Wade Davis (who each previously pitched in three out of four) were held out. Score a second partial win for the Vulture Save Watch!
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
June 20, 2018
Colorado Rockies – Wade Davis’ struggles continued on Tuesday as he allowed two runs (one earned) in an eventual 10-8 win. Davis now sports a 4.71 ERA (14.29 in June) and his owners should remain concerned that Adam Ottavino (0.85 ERA) will soon be taking over as closer.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
June 18, 2018
Colorado Rockies – After allowing four runs in a walkoff loss to the Rockies, Wade Davis now has a 15.43 ERA across six outings in June. With Adam Ottavino fresh off the DL and still pitching like an All Star, Davis needs to start looking over his shoulder, and his owners should consider handcuffing with Ottavino, if he’s available.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
June 15, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Ace reliever Adam Ottavino was activated from the disabled list on Thursday and should immediately return to his spot setting up closer Wade Davis.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
May 29, 2018
Colorado Rockies – Bryan Shaw has not been good lately in place of the injured Adam Ottavino. In his last eight appearances, Shaw owns a 16.71 ERA. That includes Tuesday’s disastrous ninth inning in which he allowed three runs on five hits before Wade Davis bailed him out to clinch a 9-6 win. Shaw will probably still get some high-leverage work in Ottavino’s absence, but the slightly less worse Jake McGee has surpassed Shaw for now in the Colorado bullpen.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | McGee | Shaw.
May 29, 2018
Colorado Rockies – Adam Ottavino has been placed on the disabled list with a sore left oblique. The team considers the injury to be minor, so he’ll likely be back in two weeks or so. Look for Bryan Shaw and Jake McGee to see their share of holds increase.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Shaw | McGee.
May 19, 2018
Colorado Rockies – With a three-run lead on Friday, the Rockies turned to Bryan Shaw in the 7th inning. Shaw stayed on to pitch a clean 8th to pick up his 10th hold of the year. Shaw has only given up one run in his last 10 appearances, lowering his ERA from 7.11 to 4.43. Meanwhile, Jake McGee has been left out of some close games recently. Both McGee and Shaw have been subject to some pretty severe home-road splits (even for Colorado), but it seems that Shaw is slightly ahead of McGee in Bud Black’s mind for now.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Ottavino | Shaw.
May 7, 2018
Colorado Rockies – With Wade Davis getting the afternoon off, Adam Ottavino picked up his first save of the season. Ottavino has quietly been maybe the single best reliever in all of baseball thus far, with 35 Ks in 19 innings and only one earned run allowed all season, and should be owned in virtually every format.
Hierarchy remains: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
April 28, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino has remained lights-out this season (0.60 ERA; 0.47 WHIP; 28 K in 15 IP), and the Rockies are using him to set up Wade Davis, with Jake McGee relegated to the seventh-inning role.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | Ottavino | McGee.
April 14, 2018
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino has been on fire to start the season, racking up 18 strikeouts in his 8.2 innings, and he picked up his third hold of the season by closing out the eighth Friday night. Bryan Shaw has been good, pitching a clean seventh inning ahead of Ottavino, but Ottavino’s recent usage suggests he’s ahead of Shaw at this point.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | McGee | Ottavino.
April 3, 2018
Colorado Rockies – Jake McGee got his second hold of the year on Monday, pitching the 8th inning in a 3-run game. The season is only a few days old, but early usage suggests McGee is the clear handcuff for offseason acquisition Wade Davis.
Updated hierarchy: Davis | McGee | Shaw.
February 28, 2018
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies have the most expensive bullpen in baseball after they signed Wade Davis to a three-year, $52 million contract. They also snagged righty Bryan Shaw in the offseason and re-signed lefty Jake McGee to hefty contracts, and we’ll see if the Rockies get the bang for their buck that they expect. Those three guys are the key arms, but Adam Ottavino and Mike Dunn will also be in the mix for some holds during the season.
Starting 2018 hierarchy: Davis | Shaw | McGee.
Holds candidates: Shaw, McGee, Ottavino, Dunn.
September 13, 2017
Colorado Rockies – The Vulture Save Watch correctly predicted that Greg Holland would be unavailable on Tuesday. However, the Rockies also rested Jake McGee and Pat Neshek. Scott Oberg pitched the eighth inning and then got the first out of the ninth before ceding to Chris Rusin. The lefty recorded the final two outs for his second career save. Bud Black calls Rusin the team’s “Swiss Army knife,” and while he hasn’t officially cracked our hierarchy, don’t be too surprised if he gets more high-leverage looks over the final weeks of the season.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | McGee | Neshek.
September 12, 2017
Colorado Rockies – After being temporarily demoted to committee status, Greg Holland seems to have worked out his issues and last night collected his fourth save in seven days. Given his recent issues, a few hiccups could lead to a quick re-installation of the committee, but for the time being, we don’t see anyone else in the Colorado bullpen getting save opps as long as Holland is rested.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | McGee | Neshek.
August 28, 2017
Colorado Rockies – With Greg Holland unavailable due to a scheduled rest day, the Rockies went with Jake McGee in the 9th inning to close out a 3-0 victory over the Braves. If Holland is unable to make his slider great again, McGee seems like the guy to replace him at this point. He has closing experience, of course, and while Pat Neshek is having a better year, the 36-year-old seems more content to stay in a set-up role — as he did when a similar situation arose with the Phillies earlier this season. Since Holland was not going to pitch yesterday, we can’t yet say for certain that he’s no longer the lead option for saves, but this situation remains very fluid, with the next few outings key to how things shake out.
Hierarchy remains: *Holland | McGee | Neshek.
* = closer-by-committee
August 27, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Greg Holland entered the ninth inning last night trying to protect a three run lead. He recorded only one out, while giving up a two runs on three hits. Jake McGee replaced Holland and got a double play to end the game. Holland’s month of August has been atrocious. His ERA for the month is 15.12, and he has three blown saves (plus he was on his way to a fourth blown save last night). Bud Black said after the game that they would talk about replacing Holland in the closer’s role, but no changes have been confirmed yet. Given how bad he has been this month, we figure the Rockies have to back off Holland, at least temporarily. We will slap the committee on there for now, and slide McGee up to first in line with the thought that the Rockies might keep Neshek in his eighth inning role like the Phillies did earlier this season. If anything more definitive is announced today, we will be sure to let you know.
Updated hierarchy: *Holland | McGee | Neshek.
* = closer-by-committee
August 25, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Greg Holland, reeling after an awful month, pitched a clean ninth Thursday, retiring the side on just seven pitches. It’s an encouraging sign for Holland owners, who probably have benched him by now until he shows he consistently has his act together. Another encouraging sign? Manager Bud Black said he’ll remain closer (for now). Another blow-up or two, however, could prompt a change at the back end.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Neshek | McGee.
August 24, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Greg Holland had a rough Wednesday against his former club, giving up three runs as he recorded his third blown save this month in a walk-off loss to the Royals. After the game, Bud Black said that his initial instinct is to keep Holland as his closer, though he will talk about it. Holland’s last two outings have been disastrous, as he also allowed three earned runs on August 19. Nearly untouchable over the first three months of the season, Holland has now given up nine earned runs in August and is firmly on the hot seat in Colorado.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Neshek | McGee.
August 10, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Even though Wednesday’s game went 12 innings, Bud Black managed to rest Greg Holland and Pat Neshek. Jake McGee pitched in the eighth and ninth, and Tyler Chatwood made his first appearance since being moved to the bullpen, picking up his first save in five years. Chatwood is the only pitcher this season with both a save and a shutout, and he’s the first guy to do it since — *drum roll* — Matt Andriese in 2016. That answer is kind of a letdown, I’ll be honest with you.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Neshek | McGee.
August 9, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Jake McGee is no longer on the DL, but he has still yet to pitch since July 25. It was a bit curious that McGee wasn’t summoned at all in a 1-0 game last night, especially when the Rockies twice played the matchups against left-handed hitters, but perhaps Bud Black is hoping to ease McGee back into the late innings.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Neshek | McGee.
August 3, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Day-to-day with a cut on his pitching hand (the knuckle of the forefinger) after a kitchen accident, Greg Holland pitched in a tie game in the ninth inning Thursday and got the win when the Rockies scored in the bottom half. Manager Bud Black was willing to wait for Holland to heal, but said he wasn’t too worried, as the two had a conversation about an upcoming roast instead of the cut before Thursday’s game.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Neshek | Dunn.
August 3, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Greg Holland cut his index finger in a kitchen mishap on Tuesday and is day-to-day.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Neshek | Dunn.
August 1, 2017
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies already made their bullpen-bolstering move, adding Pat Neshek a few days ago, and as it turned out, the move couldn’t have come at a better time, as Jake McGee felt his back tighten up over the weekend and will need a short DL stint. Lefty Mike Dunn has settled in as of late (only 1 ER in 10 July appearances) and might get some matchup-based looks in the 7th and 8th in McGee’s absence.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Neshek | Dunn.
July 27, 2017
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies added some much-needed bullpen depth with the acquisition of Pat Neshek from the Phillies. Neshek brings an impressive resume (1.12 ERA, 0.82 WHIP, 10.04 K/9) to Coors Field, where he will immediately see high-leverage work and potentially a save chance with Greg Holland on paternity leave. Holland will be back sometime during the Rockies’ series against the Nationals, and Bud Black was mum on who would close in Holland’s absence before the Neshek deal. We’ll see how Black plays the new-look bullpen when that series begins on Friday.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Neshek | McGee.
July 5, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino had an abysmal June and his struggles have continued into July. On Tuesday, he allowed two homers in the eighth inning of a blowout loss. Ottavino has given up 12 runs over his last six appearances and seen his ERA shoot up to 6.00. Hard to think at this point that if Greg Holland needed a day off it’d be Ottavino and not Jake McGee getting the call for the ninth inning. McGee had struggled a bit at the end of June but has since lowered his ERA to 2.83 with four straight scoreless appearances.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | McGee | Ottavino.
June 10, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino was activated from the DL and immediately saw action in the eighth inning ahead of Greg Holland. Ottavino looked healthy, pitching a perfect inning with 2 Ks and picking up his 16th hold of the season. A healthy Ottavino is the best option behind Holland for the Rockies, moving Jake McGee back to second in line.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Ottavino | McGee.
June 9, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Setup man Adam Ottavino says he’s ready to return, and the expectation is that he’ll be activated from the disabled list as early as Friday. The move isn’t official yet, but it’s coming.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | McGee | Rusin.
June 2, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Former closer Jake McGee has been really impressive lately, having not allowed a run since May 12 or a walk since May 4 (1.66 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, 30 Ks). He picked up his fourth hold Thursday, pitching the eighth inning in Adam Ottavino’s absence. He’ll likely get any save opportunity when closer Greg Holland is unavailable.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | McGee | Rusin.
May 31, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino was placed on the 10-day DL thanks to shoulder inflammation. The Rockies called up Carlos Estevez from Triple-A and he rewarded the club by giving up five hits and three earned runs on Tuesday in a low-leverage spot during an eventual 10-4 loss. Chris Rusin and Jake McGee (1.74 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, 12.63 K/9) will serve as the bridge to Greg Holland, with McGee riding a stretch of seven straight scoreless appearances and earning the praise of manager Bud Black.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Rusin | McGee.
May 26, 2017
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies lost Thursday, but the team got a chance to put on display its stable of solid relievers in a tight game. Lately, lefty Mike Dunn (5.79 ERA, 1.57 WHIP) is not one of those pitchers, despite his 10 holds this season. In fact, in his last outing on Wednesday, Dunn allowed two earned runs on a walk and two hits while facing just four batters. We like Chris Rusin, who after another scoreless outing Thursday, has a 2.00 ERA and a 0.85 WHIP. He has recorded a few holds lately, too.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Ottavino | Rusin.
May 24, 2017
Colorado Rockies — One name to keep an eye on is Chris Rusin. He pitched a scoreless 7th inning in an 8-2 win on Tuesday and has now allowed just one run in his last 11 appearances, striking out 15 and walking just two in that span. The lefty is versatile enough to also serve as a long reliever when necessary, but if he continues to pitch well, don’t be surprised to see him pick up some more high-leverage work.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Ottavino | Dunn.
May 7, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Chris Rusin picked up a three inning save on Saturday.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Ottavino | Dunn.
May 4, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Mike Dunn is back with the Rockies and should return to his seventh-inning role.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Ottavino | Dunn.
April 27, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Back spasms sent Mike Dunn to the 10-day DL, backdated to Sunday. Chad Qualls was activated to replace him, but it looks like Jake McGee will slide into his role, with Qualls and Carlos Estevez also late-inning hold options.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Ottavino | McGee.
April 8, 2017
Colorado Rockies – With the Rockies bullpen having been put to work early this season, it was Jake McGee who got the call to pick up the vulture save. McGee is feeling healthy, and he looked awesome, striking out the side on 14 pitches. With the rest of the bullpen needing rest, we’d like to see McGee in a couple more high leverage spots before he cracks the hierarchy again, but if the former closer can pitch like he did yesterday, he won’t stay out long.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Ottavino | Dunn.
April 5, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Mike Dunn pitched a clean eighth inning ahead of Greg Holland on Tuesday. This comes after a strong seventh inning on Monday. He has struck out five of the seven batters he has faced and has yet to allow a hit this season. This has come after an outstanding spring. Meanwhile, Jake McGee’s 2017 debut on Tuesday consisted of one batter faced and one hit allowed.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Ottavino | Dunn.
March 30, 2017
Colorado Rockies — It’s a guessing game in Colorado, where neither Greg Holland nor Adam Ottavino is having a lights-out spring. We continue to believe that it’ll be Holland closing out games for the Rockies.
Hierarchy remains: Holland | Ottavino | McGee.
March 22, 2017
Colorado Rockies — Greg Holland has looked healthy so far in his spring training appearances, and local reporters seem confident that he will start the season as the closer, moving Adam Ottavino into an eighth-inning role.
Updated hierarchy: Holland | Ottavino | McGee.
March 1, 2017
Colorado Rockies — None of this newfangled bullpen fluidity for Bud Black: the Colorado manager is a traditionalist who likes his beer cold, his TV loud, and his closers strictly identified, “dog.” Although that article suggests that Black wants Greg Holland to return to his past ninth-inning greatness, the former Royal has yet to appear in a spring training game, continuing rehab from his 2015 Tommy John surgery. Based on that uncertainty, we’ll give the tentative edge to Adam Ottavino, whose new two-seam fastball looked good in a small sample size last season. Jake McGee and Mike Dunn are likely to fill late-inning roles, with old friends Jason Motte, Chad Qualls, and Carlos Estevez also hanging around (at least for now).
Starting 2017 hierarchy: Ottavino | Holland | McGee.
Holds candidates: Holland, McGee, Mike Dunn.
September 29, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Boone Logan got the first shot at Wednesday’s save, against a lefty-heavy lineup, but when he put two men on, Adam Ottavino was summoned for the last out.
Hierarchy remains: Ottavino | Logan | McGee.
September 12, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Jake McGee got the 9th inning of a tie game on Sunday, and pitched a scoreless inning with two strikeouts. He’s now logged seven straight scoreless appearances and has fought his way back on to the Rockies hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Logan | McGee.
September 9, 2016
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies activated Jason Motte from the 15-day disabled list. He had been on the DL since late July with a rotator cuff strain. We’ll monitor how Walt Weiss uses Motte (5.66 ERA) in the coming days.
Hierarchy remains: Ottavino | Logan | Estevez.
August 28, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Up until yesterday, Adam Ottavino’s ERA for 2015 and 2016 matched his jersey number; 0. Ottavino blew the save on Saturday while giving up his first run since September 2014. Ottavino had the longest active scoreless streak in the majors, but it was ended by the Washington Nationals, who ended Zach Britton’s streak just a few days earlier.
Hierarchy remains: Ottavino | Logan | Estevez.
August 23, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Right-hander Scott Oberg was placed on the 15-day disabled list with the very scary sounding condition “axillary artery thrombosis.” Carlos Estevez, who closed for the Rockies for a time despite a 5+ ERA, was recalled from Triple-A to replace Oberg. Boone Logan has been fantastic this year, so we expect him to get the 8th ahead of Ottavino going forward, while Estevez’s former experience in the closer role pushes him on to the depth chart right away.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Logan | Estevez.
August 18, 2016
Colorado Rockies — We knew Adam Ottavino was likely to get a night off, but it was a bit surprising to see Scott Oberg earn the save. It’s been a revolving door in front of Ottavino, with Oberg, Jake McGee, and Carlos Estevez each pitching an eighth inning in front of the closer this past week. Oberg’s numbers aren’t great — and he gave up a home run on Wednesday night — but we’ve got to put him somewhere. Just know that we don’t recommend anyone in this pen past Ottavino.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Oberg | Logan.
August 12, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Adam Ottavino picked up his first save of the season Thursday. It was his first since April 24, 2015, before he was shelved and had to undergo Tommy John surgery. Ottavino will likely remain the Rockies closer for the rest of the year.
Hierarchy remains: Ottavino | Logan | McGee.
August 10, 2016
Colorado Rockies — As we had been predicting for a while, Walt Weiss decided to go back to Adam Ottavino “for the most part” in the closer’s role. Carlos Estevez will slip back to at least fourth-chair, behind Ottavino, Boone Logan, and Jake McGee.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Logan | McGee.
August 9, 2016
Colorado Rockies — As we’ve been predicting for a while, Walt Weiss has decided to go back to Adam Ottavino in the closer’s role. Carlos Estevez will slip back to at least fourth-chair, behind Ottavino, Boone Logan, and Jake McGee.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Logan | McGee.
August 9, 2016
Colorado Rockies — This might be the last straw for Carlos Estevez’s job as the Rockies’ closer. Following a couple of miserable outings last week, Estevez melted down last night at Coors Field, coughing up three runs in one-third of an inning for his fifth blown save of the year. After the game, Walt Weiss said he was “not going to talk about roles after the game.” When he does talk about roles, especially whether Adam Ottavino will step in as closer, we’ll let you know.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Ottavino | Logan.
August 6, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Carlos Estevez had a rough outing last night, giving up four runs and recording only one out while trying to protect a two-run lead. This meltdown, which snapped a six-game scoreless streak for Estevez, was his second blown save in 13 attempts, and has led to speculation that Adam Ottavino will get the next save opportunity. Ottavino has been outstanding in 14 scoreless appearances since his return from Tommy John surgery; in fact, he hasn’t given up a run in exactly 23 months (25.1 IP). Walt Weiss said in July that he wanted to work Ottavino back into the closer’s role, and this game may serve as a catalyst. This may be your last shot to grab Ottavino before he officially takes over as the closer.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Ottavino | Logan.
July 29, 2016
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies could be close to dealing reliever Boone Logan to the Blue Jays, but no deal is in place as of yet. Several other teams are interested in the lefty.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Ottavino | Logan.
July 28, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Jason Motte returned to the disabled list on Wednesday with another right shoulder strain. Walt Weiss still doesn’t seem to fully trust Jake McGee, so we’ll elevate fellow lefthander Boone Logan into the hierarchy — but note that Logan has been mentioned in some trade rumors.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Ottavino | Logan.
July 19, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Between the emergence of Carlos Estevez, the recent returns of Jake McGee and Boone Logan from the disabled list, and the activation of Adam Ottavino after Tommy John surgery, the Rockies suddenly have a bunch of competent relievers to get them through the late innings. But even with all those arms available, it’s been Jason Motte pitching the 8th inning in close games over the last two days. Ottavino has been used in the 7th in his last two appearances, and McGee has only pitched one third of an inning over the past week, despite Walt Weiss explaining before the All-Star break that he intended to “work him back in” to the late inning mix. We expect Weiss to keep going with what works for now, especially following last night’s win.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Ottavino | Motte.
July 10, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino maintained a pristine 0.00 ERA in his third appearance since returning from Tommy John surgery. Walt Weiss has said that Ottavino is a “big league closer,” and that he will try to get Ottavino back into that role, so if you’re looking for a speculative add, you could do a lot worse. He seems to have moved ahead of Jake McGee, but still has some work to do in order to pass Carlos Estevez.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Ottavino | McGee.
July 10, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Jordan Lyles picked up the second three inning save of Saturday in a Rockies’ five run victory. Lyles does not figure into the Rockies’ regular late inning plans.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | McGee | Ottavino.
July 6, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino officially made his return from Tommy John surgery on Tuesday in his first appearance since April 25, 2015. He struck out the only batter he faced in a 7-3 victory. Ottavino is expected to ease back into game action, but manager Walt Weiss said it won’t be long before the righty is pitching in high-leverage situations.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | McGee | Ottavino.
July 3, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Jake McGee was activated from the DL on Saturday. He started the seventh inning with the Rockies down three runs, and struck out the first batter he faced. Unfortunately, he gave up a double and walk to the next two batters and got pulled after throwing 22 pitches. Manager Walt Weiss has not said whether or not McGee would regain the closer’s role. Carlos Estevez has pitched well in McGee’s absence, and we will leave him in the closer spot for now (and as of this post, Denver Post readers agree). We will continue to monitor this and let you know when Weiss announces his plans moving forward.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | McGee | Motte.
June 30, 2016
Colorado Rockies — After two rehab outings, Jake McGee is expected to return from the disabled list on Saturday — but Walt Weiss refused to commit to a set role for the lefthander going forward, calling the Rockies’ bullpen situation “ever-evolving.” If Gigalith hits the hierarchy, don’t say he didn’t warn you.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Motte | Germen.
June 26, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Gonzalez Germen recorded his first save of the season yesterday. Germen came on to get the last out the eighth inning and stayed on for the ninth after the Rockies added some insurance runs. Boone Logan has been used as a LOOGY lately, he has gone less than a full inning in his last seven appearances so German could continue to see more time in the later innings for the Rockies until Jake McGee returns.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Motte | Germen.
June 13, 2016
Colorado Rockies – A day after being named closer, Carlos Estevez needed a night off due to recent workload. In his stead, the Rockies played matchups in the 9th, with Jason Motte starting off the inning and then Boone Logan picking up the last out for his first save of the year. You can expect to see something similar on nights when Estevez isn’t available in the future.
Hierarchy remains: Estevez | Motte | Logan.
June 12, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Jake McGee was placed on the DL yesterday and rookie Carlos Estevez recorded the save in his place. Jason Motte was originally sent out for the 9th but after he allowed a double and hit a batter, he was pulled for Estevez. After the game, manager Walt Weiss named Estevez the closer while McGee is out.
Updated hierarchy: Estevez | Motte | Logan.
June 11, 2016
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies have placed closer Jake McGee on the disabled list. They have yet to name a replacement, but a committee led by flamethrower Carlos Estevez and Boone Logan is a possibility. Chad Qualls is having a bad year, but also has the experience. Check back for updates.
Updated hierarchy: *Estevez | Logan | Qualls.
* = closer-by-committee
June 11, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Jake McGee got two quick outs with a two-run lead before giving up four straight hits, including a three-run homer, to blow his third save of the year. Before Friday night, McGee had given up only one run in his last 12 appearances, but his peripheral numbers have been weak. His K rate is nearly half of what it’s usually been and his velocity has continued to drop, so it’s not a surprise that opponents are batting over .300 against him. McGee’s job is probably safe for now, but with Carlos Estevez pitching well and Adam Ottavino planning a return at the All-Star break, he shouldn’t get too comfortable.
Hierarchy remains: McGee | Estevez | Logan.
June 7, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Boone Logan has been reinstated from the DL following a stint with a strained shoulder. Twenty-one year old flamethrower Miguel Castro was sent down to Triple-A Albuquerque to make room for Logan’s return.
Updated hierarchy: McGee | Estevez | Logan.
May 26, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Jason Motte is back from the disabled list, but taking his place will be Boone Logan (strained shoulder). Walt Weiss intends to ease Motte back into things, so for now, Miguel Castro moves to second in line.
Updated hierarchy: McGee | Estevez | Castro.
May 22, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Carlos Estevez pitched the eighth inning of a tie game last night and ended up getting the win after the Rockies scored four runs in the top of the ninth. Estevez now has a win and five holds in his last six appearances. In other Rockies’ bullpen news, Miguel Castro was activated from the DL a few days ago and could work his way back onto the hierarchy shortly.
Updated hierarchy: McGee | Estevez | Logan.
May 18, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Carlos Estevez converted his fifth straight hold on Tuesday while Chad Qualls has not pitched since a blown save on May 11. Estevez, who has closing experience from over two decades ago, has allowed just two hits and one earned run in his last six appearances.
Updated hierarchy: McGee | Logan | Estevez.
April 30, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Jason Motte had a good bullpen session on Friday in his rehabilitation from a sore shoulder, and will travel with the team on its upcoming road trip. There’s still no target date for his return, however.
Hierarchy remains: McGee | Qualls | Logan.
April 23, 2016
Colorado Rockies — Miguel Castro joined Jason Motte on the disabled list Friday, caused by inflammation in his right shoulder. It ain’t pretty, what’s left behind Jake McGee in the Rockies pen: new set-up guy Chad Qualls has a 6.35 ERA, Justin Miller averages two baserunners an inning, and Christian Bergman is giving up hits to everyone he doesn’t strike out. We’ll give the slot to lefty Boone Logan for now, but callup Gonzalez Germen could make it his before long.
Updated hierarchy: McGee | Qualls | Logan.
March 31, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Jason Motte, who was in contention to close for the Rockies, will likely start the season on the disabled list. Jake McGee should still get the first shot at closing games, but Miguel Castro and Chad Qualls are also options.
Updated hierarchy: McGee | Castro | Qualls.
March 24, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Manager Walt Weiss is in no rush to name a closer, but while the ninth inning is no closer to being decided upon, hard-throwing Miguel Castro may have impressed enough this spring to get a shot in the seventh inning.
Updated hierarchy: McGee | Motte | Castro.
March 2, 2016
Colorado Rockies – Jake McGee came to Colorado in an offseason trade, and should slot in as the team’s closer after Adam Ottavino hit the 60-day DL. The team also signed veterans Jason Motte and Chad Qualls to bolster the bullpen. In addition, the Rockies have two young arms, in Jairo Diaz and Justin Miller, who throw hard and impressed last season.
Starting 2016 hierarchy: McGee | Motte | Qualls.
Holds candidates: Motte, Qualls, Miller.
September 16, 2015
Colorado Rockies — In a 16-inning affair that saw the Rockies use a major league record 13 pitchers, it was Gonzalez Germen who eventually got the save. He may not factor into Colorado’s late-inning plans, but he certainly factors into their late-late-inning plans.
Hierarchy remains: Axford | Diaz | Miller.
September 12, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Justin Miller, who spent July and much of August getting high-leverage work for Colorado, has been moved back into that role since returning from Albuquerque. Miller pitched the seventh after Scott Oberg on Thursday, and entered a tight eighth on Friday night to strike out Nelson Cruz.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Diaz | Miller.
September 8, 2015
Colorado Rockies — The only bright spot in the Rockies’ car wreck of a bullpen lately has been Jairo Diaz, a 24-year-old righty who has allowed only 1 run in 8 innings of work this season. His peripherals aren’t great, but any form of production means that Walt Weiss gives you a shot, and yesterday, Weiss combined Diaz with lefty specialist Boone Logan to get through the 8th inning. Good enough for us.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Diaz | Oberg.
September 3, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Justin Miller, who was recalled from Triple-A prior to Wednesday’s game, was used to protect a three-run lead in the 8th inning, then stayed on for the 9th to pick up his first save after the Rockies scored two more in the bottom half of the frame.
Hierarchy remains: Axford | Oberg | Diaz.
August 29, 2015
Colorado Rockies — John Axford has pitched well since regaining the closer role, but the rest of the Colorado bullpen continues to stink. Friday, the team sent Tommy Kahnle down to Albuquerque, leaving Scott Oberg as the only remaining pedigreed reliever — and he celebrated by giving up two runs in a tied eighth to pick up the loss. With no hope of playoff baseball, the Rockies are trying some new guys in the ‘pen, including big-armed Venezuelan Jairo Diaz, who has a 100+ MPH fastball and a plus slider.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Oberg | Diaz.
August 21, 2015
Colorado Rockies — The resurgent John Axford earned his first save since July 10 after shutting down the Nationals Thursday night. What’s more remarkable is that Axford had four blown saves (and three wins) in between his two most recent converted attempts. Scott Oberg pitched the eighth inning ahead of the Ax Man, and has two holds over the last week.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Kahnle | Oberg.
August 19, 2015
Colorado Rockies — John Axford will again close for the Rockies. Walt Weiss announced the move before Tuesday’s game, saying that Axford looked like himself again. Tommy Kahnle will slide down to the set-up role, though he struggled on Tuesday, allowing four earned runs on one hit and three walks.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Kahnle | Miller.
August 18, 2015
Colorado Rockies – John Axford will again close for the Rockies. Walt Weiss announced the move before Tuesday’s game, saying that Axford looked like himself again. Tommy Kahnle slides down to the set-up role.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Kahnle | Miller.
August 10, 2015
Colorado Rockies – John Axford finished off the 7th inning of a tie game, and then stayed on to pitch the 8th, ultimately earning the win when the Rockies pushed a couple runs across against Drew Storen. In a bullpen as shaky as this, that’s good enough for a place on the hierarchy — Axford moves back ahead of Rafael Betancourt, who coughed up the lead in the 6th.
Updated hierarchy: Kahnle | Miller | Axford.
August 9, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Manager Walt Weiss was impressed by Tommy Kahnle’s first save and said he wants him pitching in the ninth inning more often. We will remove the asterisk for now and hope we don’t jinx him like we seemingly did for Carson Smith when we removed his asterisk.
Hierarchy remains: Kahnle | Miller | Betancourt.
August 8, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Tommy Kahnle continues to look like the best bet for saves going forward for the Rockies; he picked up the first one of his career to celebrate his 26th birthday on Friday night.
Hierarchy remains: *Kahnle | Miller | Betancourt.
* = closer-by-committee
August 6, 2015
Colorado Rockies – So much for John Axford sneaking back in to the closer conversation in Colorado — he gave up 2 runs in the 7th inning last night, and was on the hook for the loss until Fernando Rodney blew the save. His ERA now sits at an ugly 4.59, after being at 0.47 through his first 20 appearances.
Updated hierarchy: *Kahnle | Miller | Betancourt.
* = closer-by-committee
August 5, 2015
Colorado Rockies – Tommy Kahnle was held out of a 10-4 Rockies loss on Tuesday while committee-mates Rafael Betancourt and Justin Miller were both used. Betancourt was knocked around, and drops out of contention for now, while Kahnle continues to look like Walt Weiss’s first choice for saves, and might run with the job if he can close out his first opportunity or two. Another outside possibility is that the Rockies go so long without a save chance that John Axford sneaks back into contention — he’s pitched two scoreless innings since his demotion.
Updated hierarchy: *Kahnle | Miller | Axford.
* = closer-by-committee.
August 3, 2015
Colorado Rockies – We’re three days into the Colorado closer committee, and looking more and more like Tommy Kahnle is Walt Weiss’s first choice. He got the last four outs of a four-run victory on Saturday, and then was held out of Sunday’s game, while Justin Miller and Rafael Betancourt pitched the 6th and 7th innings. Scott Oberg eventually blew it and took the loss. We’ll continue to monitor the situation.
Hierarchy remains: *Kahnle | Betancourt | Miller.
* = closer-by-committee
July 31, 2015
Colorado Rockies — As we predicted Friday morning, John Axford lost his job as Rockies closer after a string of five straight miserable appearances. Walt Weiss said that he had not yet decided who would take over, but name-checked Tommy Kahnle, Rafael Betancourt, and Justin Miller, who had six saves at AAA Albuquerque this season.
Updated hierarchy: *Kahnle | Betancourt | Miller.
* = closer-by-committee
July 31, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Closer John Axford is in what he calls the “ABSOLUTE WORST” stretch of his career now after blowing his fourth straight save Thursday night. He walked in the winning run, throwing just eight of his 25 pitches for strikes in a rough 9th inning. Manager Walt Weiss offered his support for Axford after the game, saying the closer has had a tough week. No kidding. Axford is on the hottest of seats, and if he’s pulled from the closer’s role (which may happen as early as Friday), we expect a committee approach, with Tommy Kahnle in line for the first crack, and Rafael Betancourt and Boone Logan other potential options.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Kahnle | Betancourt.
July 28, 2015
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies picked up Miguel Castro in the Troy Tulowitzki deal, and given the state of their bullpen, he might get summoned to the big leagues soon. For now, though, we suspect that LaTroy Hawkins’s absence means more holds for Rafael Betancourt and Tommy Kahnle. Keep an eye on Betancourt in particular, who has come around as of late, having allowed only one run in his last nine innings pitched; he’s becoming an appealing alternative to closer John Axford, who destroyed his trade value by allowing 12 ERs in his last 11 innings. Axford blew the save last night after the Rockies staged a big rally to take the lead in the top of the 9th.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Betancourt | Kahnle.
July 4, 2015
Colorado Rockies — John Axford returned to the team on Friday and is likely to be reactivated for Saturday’s game. During an incredibly stressful season, Axford has found baseball to be a peaceful haven.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Hawkins | Kahnle.
July 1, 2015
Colorado Rockies –John Axford was placed on the personal inactive list Tuesday night in order to take care of things at home, though thankfully it seems as if his son, who was bit by a rattlesnake earlier this year, is fine. By rule, Axford’s absence must last a minimum of three days, and the Rockies will go to a committee during that time. LaTroy Hawkins, Tommy Kahnle and Scott Oberg were mentioned by manager Walt Weiss as committee members, with Hawkins getting the first chance on Tuesday. The 42-year-old earned his second save of the season and his first since April 7. He has allowed just one earned run in nine appearances since returning to the Rockies’ roster and is the leading candidate for saves in Axford’s stead. Boone Logan was up in the ‘pen if a lefty got into the game for the A’s in the 9th, meaning Weiss is willing to play matchups as well.
Updated hierarchy: *Hawkins | Kahnle | Oberg.
* = closer-by-committee.
June 27, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Rafael Betancourt was activated from the disabled list and immediately pitched the seventh inning in a close game. He will immediately return to high-leverage setup work in front of John Axford, and should soon be considered for vulture save work.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Betancourt | Logan.
June 21, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Tommy Kahnle got the call last night with the Rockies protecting a two run lead in the 7th inning and two men on base. He got a double play ball to get out the inning and then came back to pitch a scoreless 8th. Kahnle was called up at the beginning of June and has recorded a couple holds to go along with an ERA under 1.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Logan | Kahnle.
June 19, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Righty Brooks Brown was placed on the 15-day disabled list with shoulder inflammation, and Scott Oberg (5.55 ERA) had his second awful outing in three games, allowing three runs in an inning on Thursday night. So, who should slot in after John Axford in one of the worst bullpens in the major leagues? Mike Hampton? Pedro Astacio? Jose Jimenez? We’ll go with Boone Logan — who leads the team in holds (13) and averages 11.2 K/9 — and former closer LaTroy Hawkins, who tossed a scoreless inning with two strikeouts Thursday. It’s also worth keeping an eye on Tommy Kahnle, who has impressed since his major league callup on June 1.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Logan | Hawkins.
June 12, 2015
Colorado Rockies — LaTroy Hawkins was activated from the disabled list and immediately pitched against the Marlins Thursday, allowing two hits and picking up a strikeout in a scoreless inning with the Rockies down six. Let’s see Hawkins get some work when the Rockies have the lead before we bring him back into the hierarchy.
Hierarchy remains: Axford | Oberg | Brown.
June 9, 2015
Colorado Rockies – Having battled a sinus infection and vertigo symptoms for weeks, Rafael Betancourt will spend some time on the disabled list. Throughout his three-week-long illness, Betancourt has struggled mightily, culminating with an on-field tantrum on Saturday. While Betancourt takes time to recover, 29-year-old Brooks Brown should slide in to take his place, but he may not be there for long as LaTroy Hawkins is close to returning to the roster.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Oberg | Brown.
June 8, 2015
Colorado Rockies – A week after Scott Oberg picked up his first career save, he pitched the 8th inning in a tie game (John Axford would pitch the 9th). In the near-term, Oberg seems like the most likely option to get saves when Axford is unavailable, especially with Rafael Betancourt struggling with fatigue.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Oberg | Betancourt.
June 5, 2015
Colorado Rockies — You probably thought you’d never read this name again in the annals of Closer Monkey, but 42-year-old reliever LaTroy Hawkins, who began the season as the Rockies closer, isn’t done yet. Recovering from right biceps tendinitis, Hawkins pitched a 1-2-3 sixth inning for the Triple-A Albuquerque Isotopes Thursday night, striking out Cubs super prospect Javier Baez in the process. Hawkins is scheduled to make at least one more appearance in AAA before a possible promotion back to the big leagues, where he could once again factor into the back-end of the Rockies bullpen.
Hierarchy remains: Axford | Betancourt | Oberg.
June 1, 2015
Colorado Rockies – John Axford needed a night off, so Scott Oberg picked up his first career save. Oberg certainly wouldn’t have been our first choice — the 25-year-old rookie has all of 19 big league appearances (3 holds) and hasn’t been especially impressive — but he’s only allowed 1 run in his last eight appearances, so maybe Walt Weiss was playing the hot hand. We’ll tentatively welcome him to the hierarchy and keep an eye on his usage going forward.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Betancourt | Oberg.
May 9, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Two-year-old Jameson Axford, still recovering from what his doctors called the worst rattlesnake bite they had ever seen, threw out the first pitch at Friday night’s game. Jameson has the stuff to challenge for a late-inning role in 2036, when the rest of us will all be so, so impossibly old.
Hierarchy remains: Axford | Betancourt | Logan.
May 5, 2015
Colorado Rockies – Confirming what many had already suspected, Adam Ottavino needs Tommy John surgery and will miss the rest of 2015.
Hierarchy remains: Axford | Betancourt | Logan.
May 1, 2015
Colorado Rockies – As a fantasy owner, these are words you do not want to hear from an injured closer due back soon: “I’m definitely worried,” Adam Ottavino told reporters. “It’s kind of weird. I haven’t had any elbow/triceps issues in my whole career.” Ottavino also revealed he will be shut down for a while and is “in a holding pattern.” It could be at least a few weeks before we see him again, and by then, John Axford could have the job secured.
Hierarchy remains: Axford | Betancourt | Logan.
April 28, 2015
Colorado Rockies — As we told you last night, John Axford was first in line to get a save opportunity with Adam Ottavino headed to the disabled list. Rafael Betancourt could also get some chances, but if you must ride with a Rockies closer, the Ax Man is the choice. And we’re sorry.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Betancourt | Logan.
April 27, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino has been placed on the 15-day DL with right triceps inflammation. Expect John Axford to get the most save chances in the short term.
Updated hierarchy: Axford | Betancourt | Logan.
April 25, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Adam Ottavino returned from his brief rest and earned an uneventful save on Friday night.
Hierarchy remains: Ottavino | Axford | Betancourt.
April 24, 2015
Colorado Rockies — John Axford, back from dealing with his son’s snake bite, earned his second save of the season on Thursday, shutting down the Padres in the 9th. After the game, regular closer Adam Ottavino said that he had asked for the day off due to “usual pitcher soreness.” All indications are that Ottavino is fine and will remain the closer moving forward, but Axford will play an important role as well. In other news, former closer LaTroy Hawkins has been placed on the DL with tendinitis in his biceps. This is Hawkins’s final season in what has been a $47 million career; his next appearance in one of our updates may be as part of a front office.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Axford | Betancourt.
April 15, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Prior to Tuesday’s game, Walt Weiss told Adam Ottavino that he would be the closer going forward; Ottavino responded by striking out the side to pick up his first save.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Betancourt | Logan.
April 14, 2015
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt was the freshest option in the bullpen for Walt Weiss last night after LaTroy Hawkins was unceremoniously sacked; Betancourt threw a perfect 9th inning with 2 Ks in recording the save. Adam Ottavino still could be the favorite for saves going forward, but Betancourt will also get consideration going forward after his spotless work on Monday.
Updated hierarchy: *Ottavino | Betancourt | Logan.
* = closer-by-committee
April 13, 2015
Colorado Rockies – LaTroy Hawkins has been removed from the closer role, manager Walt Weiss announced. Adam Ottavino might be the best bet to get saves going forward, but due to recent usage, he’s unavailable tonight. Rafael Betancourt will get the save opp, if there is one, and if he converts, he’s suddenly in the conversation.
Updated hierarchy: Ottavino | Betancourt | Logan.
April 12, 2015
Colorado Rockies – John Axford has left the Rockies for a while to be with his son, who just had surgery following a rattlesnake attack. His absence may be poorly timed for Axford owners, as LaTroy Hawkins just blew his second save in a row and remains firmly on the Hot Seat. With Axford away, Adam Ottavino and Boone Logan are the relievers who could benefit if the Rockies are looking to give Hawkins a break.
Hierarchy remains: Hawkins | Ottavino | Logan.
April 9, 2015
Colorado Rockies – John Axford got the save in the 10th inning after Latroy Hawkins blew his bid in the ninth. Adam Ottavino had already pitched, but Axford is a former closer, and that experience could get him some more high leverage spots in the future.
Hierarchy remains: Hawkins | Ottavino | Logan.
April 6, 2015
Colorado Rockies – In a surprising bit of news, Walt Weiss named Boone Logan the team’s primary 8th inning reliever. Logan is no LOOGY — he’s shown his whole career that he can get both lefties and righties out — and he had an excellent spring, posting a 1.04 ERA and 13 strikeouts in 8.2 IPs. The odd thing is that righty Adam Ottavino has been even MORE dominant (0.00 ERA, 15 Ks, 8.1 IPs), and just a few weeks ago, Weiss said that Ottavino would be the guy when closer LaTroy Hawkins is unavailable. Both things can be true, of course — this might be one of those situations where the 8th inning guy isn’t the one to get the call on nights when the closer is unavailable. But it certainly bears watching, as Hawkins, already no one’s pick to keep his job all year, had a pretty rough spring. In other Rockies bullpen news, John Axford’s son was bitten by a rattlesnake, and the righty is likely to miss a few games to start the season.
Updated hierarchy: Hawkins | Ottavino | Logan.
March 26, 2015
Colorado Rockies — Walt Weiss told reporters that Adam Ottavino will be the club’s top vulture save option when 42-year-old closer LaTroy Hawkins is fatigued, or watching Matlock reruns.
Updated hierarchy: Hawkins | Ottavino | Axford.
March 8, 2015
Colorado Rockies – Yes, the Rockies still employ a closer that began his major league career (1995!) before some of our faithful Closer Monkey readers were born! I’m looking at YOU, LaTroy Hawkins. At 42, Hawkins will be the oldest active player in the big leagues this year, which will be his 21st and final season in Major League Baseball. Don’t let his age fool you. Hawkins had a solid year in Denver last season, collecting 23 saves and a 3.31 ERA. Still, keep an eye on the other late-inning relievers, including heir apparent John Axford, and last year’s up-and-down set-up duo, Adam Ottavino and Rex Brothers.
Starting 2015 hierarchy: Hawkins | Axford | Ottavino.
Holds candidates: Axford, Ottavino.
July 31, 2014
Colorado Rockies — A 27-pitch outing by LaTroy Hawkins on Tuesday was tiring enough to require the services of Adam Ottavino as closer on Wednesday.
Hierarchy remains: Hawkins | Ottavino | Brothers.
July 30, 2014
Colorado Rockies — LaTroy Hawkins is coveted by five or six teams as a set-up guy, but his strong influence in the clubhouse makes him very unlikely to move this week.
Hierarchy remains: Hawkins | Ottavino | Brothers.
July 29, 2014
Colorado Rockies – Trade rumors are swirling around Rockies closer LaTroy Hawkins, and since it’s extremely unlikely that he closes should he land somewhere like Pittsburgh, the fantasy spotlight has turned to what he’ll be leaving behind in the Colorado bullpen. Unfortunately, the Rockies haven’t been winning very much at all lately, so there isn’t a very big sample size to look at, in terms of July usage. Rex Brothers has been the “closer of the future” seemingly forever, and he did get the ball in the 8th inning of a tie game on Sunday. But in that appearance, he allowed two home runs and took the loss, the latest in a string of mediocre appearances for the lefty. So it might be righty Adam Ottavino who gets the first nod should Hawkins be traded. Ottavino had a tough June but has rebounded, posting a 2.00 in 10 July appearances. Our best bet is probably the dreaded committee, with Ottavino getting save opps against righties and Brothers getting the call against lefties, but either way, Ottavino is probably worth an add if you’re hunting for saves in a deep league.
Updated hierarchy: Hawkins | Ottavino | Brothers.
July 16, 2014
Colorado Rockies – Colorado’s owner has insisted that the team will not be selling at the trade deadline; even apart from a deal, you have to figure that LaTroy Hawkins will step aside soon for Rex Brothers. TRADE DEADLINE BUY: Rex Brothers. SELL: LaTroy Hawkins.
June 21, 2014
Colorado Rockies – It’s been a rough month for Adam Ottavino, who, after allowing yet another earned run on Friday, has seen his ERA climb from 1.46 at the end of May to 4.13 today. With Ottavino struggling, Rex Brothers has reclaimed his 8th inning role thanks to a recent scoreless stretch that has spanned eight outings.
Updated hierarchy: Hawkins | Brothers | Ottavino.
June 5, 2014
Colorado Rockies – Colorado led 8-5 when Rex Brothers entered in the eighth inning. But Rex yielded four singles and a walk, and all five of those batters came around to score, increasing his ERA to 19.29 over his last six appearances. The Rockies wound up losing 16-8. Although there was immediate speculation that Brothers might get sent down to AAA to clear a roster spot for prospect Eddie Butler, Walt Weiss wouldn’t confirm the rumor. We’d slide Matt Belisle into his hierarchy slot, but he gave up five runs of his own in the ninth, so Rex stays one more day.
Hierarchy remains: Hawkins | Ottavino | Brothers.
May 24, 2014
Colorado Rockies – Walt Weiss has said that LaTroy Hawkins is still their closer but he also mentioned that Adam Ottavino could be an option to close down the road. Hawkins has given up 22 hits, with only 6 strikeouts, in his 16 innings of work so far this year so Weiss might be forced to give Ottavino a shot at closing sooner rather than later.
Hierarchy remains: Hawkins | Ottavino | Brothers.
May 21, 2014
Colorado Rockies – LaTroy Hawkins blew his first save of the season on Sunday, and he followed it up by giving up the go-ahead run in a tied ninth last night. In his last nine appearances, Hawkins has given up seven earned runs in seven innings — and, more importantly, has surrendered 16 hits with only 2 strikeouts. With Adam Ottavino and Rex Brothers each pitching well, Hawkins might not have many more shots at the ninth.
LaTroy Hawkins to Hot Seat.
May 1, 2014
Colorado Rockies – Rather than pitch LaTroy Hawkins on three straight days, Colorado called on Rex Brothers with a two-run lead. He couldn’t get the job done, sending the game into extra innings. No hierarchy change.
April 30, 2014
Colorado Rockies – The oldest player in the National League just keeps on rolling, racking up his ninth save in as many attempts. BMWs for everyone! No hierarchy change.
April 23, 2014
Colorado Rockies – It seems Rex has returned from the doghouse, entering with two on and one out in a one-run eighth and immediately inducing a pivotal double play. Brothers’s heroics allowed Adam Ottavino’s shutout streak to continue. Walt Weiss stuck with the lefty against Brandon Belt to start the ninth, and he again came through. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to 2nd in line, replacing Boone Logan.
April 16, 2014
Colorado Rockies – Rex Brothers has been awful this year, and Walt Weiss has decided to give the lefty a few days off. Boone Logan, who escaped a bases-loaded jam in the seventh on Tuesday night, should reap some high-leverage rewards. For his part, Adam Ottavino has been practically unhittable. Hierarchy change: Adam Ottavino to Set-up, Boone Logan to 2nd in line.
April 6, 2014
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies went to Adam Ottavino in the seventh inning last night, protecting a 2 run lead. He proceeded to strike out the side in a scoreless inning and now has 8 Ks in 3 innings of work so far this season. Hierarchy change: Adam Ottavino to 2nd in line, replacing Boone Logan.
March 13, 2014
Colorado Rockies — How long will the Rockies be able to keep Rex Brothers — who was three years old when LaTroy Hawkins was drafted — in an eighth-inning role? Hawkins is ranked #29 in our preseason closer rankings.
March 7, 2014
Colorado Rockies – Rex Brothers’s quest to become the full-time Rockies closer will have to wait for at least a little while, as the Rockies signed the 41-year-old LaTroy Hawkins in the offseason. Walt Weiss has already named Hawkins the closer, though the aging righty will probably need to be rested from time to time, making Brothers an appealing option for vulture saves. Returning to the Colorado bullpen behind them are Matt Belisle and Wilton Lopez, though former Yankee Boone Logan has the early edge for the 2nd in line job after a solid 2013 campaign. Starting 2014 hierarchy: Closer – LaTroy Hawkins, Set-up – Rex Brothers, 2nd in line – Boone Logan.
September 19, 2013
Colorado Rockies – With the game still close in the 8th inning yesterday, the Rockies went to lefty Adam Ottavino, who pitched a clean inning to lower his ERA to 2.77, nearly a point and a half lower than Wilton Lopez. Lopez, the former closer for the Astros, never really got it together this year and has been a disappointment for Colorado all year long. Hierarchy change: Adam Ottavino to 2nd in line, replacing Wilton Lopez.
August 22, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt left Thursday’s game with an elbow injury and will likely miss the rest of the season. Rex Brothers will resume closing in his place. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to Closer, Matt Belisle to Set-up, Wilton Lopez to 2nd in line, Rafael Betancourt injured.
August 22, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt’s third outing since returning from the DL ended in a blown save. Betancourt has been reliable all year, and had posted two scoreless appearances since his return. But he’s also 38 years old, and the Rockies are well out of the playoff race. With Rex Brothers flourishing in Betancourt’s absence, the Rockies might not need much incentive to turn the keys over to their future closer. Rafael Betancourt to Hot Seat.
August 21, 2013
Colorado Rockies — Rafael Betancourt got his first save since his emergency appendectomy in a 1-2-3 ninth. No hierarchy change.
August 18, 2013
Colorado Rockies — Rafael Betancourt returned and pitched the ninth inning in a four-run loss; Walt Weiss is on the record saying that the next save chance will belong to the big righthander. Hierarchy change: Rafael Betancourt to Closer, Rex Brothers to Set-up, Matt Belisle to 2nd in line.
August 17, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt started his rehab assignment recently, and though Rex Brothers has pitched well in the injured closer’s stead, a Rockies beat writer expects that Betancourt will take over the 9th inning role again upon his return, which will likely be inside a week or so. No hierarchy change.
July 22, 2013
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies responded to Rafael Betancourt’s incapacitation by summoning a blast from the National League past: Mitchell Boggs. Reports suggest that Colorado will use him in front of Matt Belisle, and Boggs insists that his time in double-A exile has helped him return to last season’s impressive form. Hierarchy change: Mitchell Boggs to 2nd in line, replacing Wilton Lopez.
July 20, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt has been placed on the DL with appendicitis. The move is retroactive to July 15. Rex Brothers will close in his absence. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to Closer, Matt Belisle to Set-up, Wilton Lopez to 2nd in line, Rafael Betancourt to DL.
July 18, 2013
Colorado Rockies – The Rockies might move Rafael Betancourt in exchange for a starting pitcher, at which point Rex Brothers would again ascend to close. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: BUY Rex Brothers, SELL Rafael Betancourt.
July 9, 2013
Colorado Rockies — Matt Belisle pitched a perfect eighth in a close game on Monday, and Walt Weiss seems to again prefer him to Wilton Lopez in higher-leverage situations. Hierarchy change: Matt Belisle to 2nd in line, replacing Wilton Lopez.
June 28, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt returns from the DL today and will resume closing immediately. His return means that Rex Brothers can return to his 8th inning role, and Matt Belisle can be mercifully relegated to a less meaningful role. Last night, Belisle blew the game in the 8th inning, and has now given up 12 ERs in his last 6.2 innings. Hierarchy change: Rafael Betancourt to Closer, Rex Brothers to Set-up.
June 5, 2013
Colorado Rockies — Now that Rex Brothers seems safely ensconced as the Rockies’ interim closer, it’s less likely that Wilton Lopez will be called upon in that role. Hierarchy change: Matt Belisle to Set-up, Wilton Lopez to 2nd in line.
June 2, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt hit the DL on Sunday, meaning more save chances for Rex Brothers. Brothers, who is having a remarkable season so far (0.36 ERA), assumed his role immediately last night, pitching the 9th inning of a tie game. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to Closer, Wilton Lopez to Set-up, Matt Belisle to 2nd in line, Rafael Betancourt to DL.
June 1, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rafael Betancourt has been placed on the disabled list with the same groin injury that has been nagging him over the past two weeks. Rex Brothers will close in his absence. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to Closer, Wilton Lopez to Set-up, Matt Belisle to 2nd in line, Rafael Betancourt to DL.
May 23, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rex Brothers pitched a scoreless ninth for his first save of the season. It appears Rafael Betancourt will avoid the disabled list and could be back tomorrow. However, Betancourt has a history of groin injuries so we will wait and see if he is actually ready to go that soon. No hierarchy change.
May 22, 2013
Colorado Rockies — Rafael Betancourt left Tuesday night’s game with what the team immediately described as a “tight right groin” — no real surprise given its recent workload. Betancourt was initially listed as day-to-day, but if Wednesday’s MRI leads to a DL stint, it’s likely that Rex Brothers will take over the closer role. Wilton Lopez is another option if Walt Weiss wants to play matchups or reduce the injury’s impact on the eighth inning. Hierarchy change: Rafael Betancourt injured, Rex Brothers to Closer, Wilton Lopez to Set-up.
April 14, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Rex Brothers continues to pitch well out of the Rockies bullpen. He pitched a scoreless 9th last night with the Rockies up 4 to lower his ERA to 1.42 on the season. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to set-up, Matt Belisle to 2nd in line.
April 13, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Former Astros closer Wilton Lopez continued his awful start to the season, allowing two more runs in the 7th inning to push his ERA to 12.46. Rex Brothers got the win after throwing a clean 8th and has been pitching alongside Matt Belisle in high-leverage spots for the Rockies thus far. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to 2nd in line, replacing Wilton Lopez.
February 24, 2013
Colorado Rockies – Starting 2013 hierarchy: Closer- Rafael Betancourt, Set-up- Matt Belisle, 2nd in line- Wilton Lopez.
October 2, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Josh Roenicke picked up his first career save on Monday, retiring the final two batters in extra innings. Roenicke was the sixth man out of the pen. No hierarchy change.
August 28, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Matt Belisle picked up his second save of the season on Monday. He finished off the top of the 8th inning in a 3-run game, then stayed on for the ninth after the Rockies scored 7 runs in the interim. No hierarchy change.
August 24, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Matt Belisle picked up the save on Thursday, as Rafael Betancourt was given the night off after pitching in three of the previous four games. No hierarchy change.
July 12, 2012
Colorado Rockies – ESPN’s Buster Olney has reported that the Rockies would have to be overwhelmed in a deal for either Rafael Betancourt or Matt Belisle, so there isn’t much chance that either will move before the trade deadline. At 32-51, the Rockies are obviously not buyers, either. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: None.
June 22, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Sent to the minors after some early season struggles, Rex Brothers returned to the big leagues earlier this month and has since been dominant. Yesterday, he finished off the 7th inning, and has now allowing just 2 hits and 1 run in 8.2 innings, while striking out 14. Adam Ottavino, meanwhile, has struggled as of late, allowing 6 runs in his last 6.2 innings. Hierarchy change: Rex Brothers to 2nd in line, replacing Adam Ottavino.
May 24, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Adam Ottavino pitched the 7th inning in a close game on Wednesday, and now has 6 scoreless innings with 9 Ks since being called up. Hierarchy change: Adam Ottavino to 2nd in line, replacing Matt Reynolds.
May 23, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Rex Brothers, who closed for a short time last year but has struggled throughout 2012, was sent to the minors on Tuesday. Matt Belisle (2.86 ERA, 17 Ks/2 BBs) is the most likely candidate for 8th inning work. Hierarchy change: Matt Belisle to Set-up, Matt Reynolds to 2nd in line.
May 5, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Matt Belisle pitched a clean 7th inning on Friday, preserving a tie game for the Rockies; Edgmer Escalona took the loss in extras. Hierarchy change: Matt Belisle to 2nd in line, replacing Edgmer Escalona.
May 1, 2012
Colorado Rockies – Edgmer Escalona has been used as the late-innings righty out of the Rockies bullpen over the past week, helping to bridge the gap to Rafael Betancourt twice in the last two days. Hierarchy change: Edgmer Escalona to 2nd in line, replacing Matt Belisle.
April 12, 2012
Colorado Rockies- Long reliever Tyler Chatwood recorded a three-inning save in a Rockies blowout on Wednesday. No hierarchy change.
March 18, 2012
Colorado Rockies- With Huston Street gone, Rafael Betancourt is firmly entrenched in the closer role. Rex Brothers will likely get first crack at saves should Betancourt struggle. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Huston Street, Set-up- Rex Brothers, 2nd in line- Matt Belisle.
Sept. 12, 2011
Colorado Rockies- Long reliever Jason Hammel picked up a four-inning save in the Rockies blowout win yesterday. No hierarchy change.
Sept. 11, 2011
Colorado Rockies- Huston Street is unlikely to return to the closer role in the season’s final weeks, but he does appear to have ascended to the 8th inning role, which is where he pitched yesterday. Hierarchy change: Street to Set-up, Brothers to 2nd in line.
Sept. 4, 2011
Colorado Rockies- After announcing that Huston Street would be eased back in to the role, Jim Tracy said last night that it would be “asinine” to remove Betancourt from the closer role, given the job he’s done. He suggested that Betancourt could even head in to the winter as the closer, and if he falters, then Brothers will likely get an audition. Hierarchy change: Betancourt to Closer, Brothers to Set-up, Street to 2nd in line.
Sept. 3, 2011
Colorado Rockies- Rafael Betancourt got the save for the Rockies last night, who are still easing Huston Street back in to the role. Street should get the next, and most of the remaining, save opps. No hierarchy change.
Aug. 29, 2011
Colorado Rockies- Rafael Betancourt recorded the save last night, as Jim Tracy said he would be easing Huston Street back in to his closer role. Street should assume the job any day now. However, Matt Lindstrom may not return to his former role for a while, as Rex Brothers pitched the 8th last night and has been hot lately. Hierarchy change: Brothers to 2nd in line, replacing Lindstrom.
Aug. 28, 2011
Colorado Rockies- Huston Street pitched a scoreless 8th inning yesterday and Rafael Betancourt blew the save in the 9th. Manager Jim Tracy said he was going to ease Street back in the closer role but expect to see Street closing out games very soon especially after Betancourt’s blown save last night. Matt Lindstrom was also taken off the DL and moves to 2nd in line but should re-claim his set up job shortly. Lindstrom to 2nd in line, replacing Rex Brothers.
Aug. 26, 2011
Colorado Rockies– Huston Street is returning from the 15-day DL and should be activated for the game today against Los Angeles. Although Betancourt has pitched well in Street’s absence, expect Street to reclaim the closer job for the stretch run. Hierarchy change: Street to Closer, Betancourt to Set-Up, Brothers to 2nd in line.
Aug. 24, 2011
Colorado Rockies- Rex Brothers got the save last night because Betancourt had pitched 3 days in a row. His strong outing, however, combined with his recent work has made Brothers a strong 8th inning option. Hierarchy change: Brothers to Set-Up, Reynolds to 2nd in line.
Aug. 18, 2011
Colorado Rockies- With both Street and Lindstrom out, Matt Reynolds has emerged as primary set-up man, as he pitched 1.1 innings to close out a 5-run victory yesterday. Should he and Betancourt both go down, the Rockies will likely turn to Matt Belisle for save opportunities. Hierarchy change: Reynolds to Set-Up, Belisle to 2nd in line.
