September 10, 2014
Houston Astros — Interim manager Tom Lawless chose Josh Fields to close out the Seattle Mariners; after the game, we learned that Chad Qualls was day-to-day with a minor injury.
Hierarchy remains: Qualls | Sipp | Fields.
Minnesota Twins — With Glen Perkins still battling tingling in his shoulder and neck, Jared Burton earned Tuesday night’s save. Perkins hopes to return to action on Wednesday.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Burton | Fien.
New York Mets — When Jenrry Mejia loaded the bases on two hits and a walk, Terry Collins used lefty Josh Edgin and set-up guy Jeurys Familia to nail down the win. With Vic Black returning from the disabled list and Familia outpitching Mejia down the stretch, the Mets closer remains firmly on the Hot Seat.
Updated hierarchy: Mejia | Familia | Black.
Milwaukee Brewers — Milwaukee is now 1-13 over its last 14 games, with the latest loss coming on the strength of two two-out home runs surrendered by closer Francisco Rodriguez. K-Rod’s 14 home runs allowed are the highest in the league for a reliever.
Hierarchy remains: Rodriguez | Broxton | Smith.
VULTURE SAVE WATCH
1. Tyler Clippard, Washington Nationals — Drew Storen has earned three saves in three days, retiring all nine men he’s faced. Although he appears to be cementing his position as interim closer, he’ll be unavailable on Wednesday.
2. Josh Fields/Tony Sipp, Houston Astros — Chad Qualls is day-to-day with a minor injury.
3. Dale Thayer, San Diego Padres — Joaquin Benoit is presumably still hurting, and Kevin Quackenbush struggled in a 28-pitch outing last night.
4. Joe Smith, Los Angeles Angels — Huston Street was unavailable with a tight hamstring on Tuesday; although Mike Scioscia expects him back on Wednesday, you never know.