Fantasy Baseaball: MLB Daily Bullpen Usage and Depth Chart 4/16
Published: Apr 01, 2013
Closer Rating System: EliteâPlayers with the strongest hold on their role in bullpen; SolidâPlayers that could lose their job/teamâs with solid backup in place; ShakyâPlayers that could lose their job at any moment; CommitteeâPlayers that are sharing the role with one or more teammates.
*Individual player pitch counts have now been added to each player update starting April 9, 2013 to help fantasy owners determine when a given pitcher will be available to take the mound next. The format will listed as pitch count-strikes.
Get all your latest up-to-date daily bullpen news by following @mlbdailybullpen.American League Bullpen ReportBaltimore Orioles(CL) Solid Jim Johnson (R)âRecorded his fifth save of the season on Saturday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Johnson was up to his usual ways in this appearance, forcing three ground ball outs on just six pitches thrown to remain perfect on the season through six innings of work. 6 PC-4 ST (4/13/13)
(SU) Pedro Strop (R)âWas used to record the final out of the seventh inning on Friday night needing seven pitches to force a ground ball out to get the job done. Despite pitching back-to-back days, there is a good chance Strop will be available on Saturday since he had low pitch counts in his previous two outings. 7 PC-5 ST (4/12/13)
(MR) Darren O'Day (R)--Picked up his third hold of the season on Saturday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning. O'Day made it interesting by allowing two base runners, but was able to work out of the jam to secure the Orioles lead. 16 PC-11 ST (4/13/13)
Boston Red Sox
(CL) Solid Joel Hanrahan (R)âFailed to record an out in his appearance on Saturday giving up two walks before being replaced by Koji Uehara. Reports out of Boston also noted that Hanrahan is suffering from soreness in his legs, which may force the Red Sox to use Andrw Bailey in save situations, giving Hanrahan additional rest over the next few days. 12 PC-4 ST (4/13/13)
(SU) Andrew Bailey (R)â Picked up the win on Monday despite being charged with a blown-save in his first appearance as the team's closer, while Joel Hanrahan gets a few days off. Bailey allowed one run on two hits in the ninth inning, but since the Rays couldn't hold off the Red Sox offense, Bailey escaped with a victory despite it being a mediocre outing. 26 PC-16 ST (4/15/13)
(MR) Koji Uehara (R)âPicked up his third hold of the season Monday after pitching a 1-2-3 eighth inning. He struck out one batter while forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out to get the job done and keep the Red Sox in the lead. 12 PC-9 ST (4/15/13)Chicago White Sox(CL) Solid Addison Reed (R)âRecorded his fourth save of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning walking one batter in the appearance. Reed has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely have the day off on Monday considering how early it is in the season. 19 PC-12 ST (4/14/13)
(SU) Matt Thornton (L)âPicked up his fourth hold of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning giving up one hit while striking out one batter. With Addison Reed pitching back-to-back days, Thornton may be used in a save situation on Monday if one was to arise when the team takes on the Blue Jays. 20 PC-12 (4/14/13)
(MR) Jesse Crain (R)âTook the loss on Friday night after allowing one run on two hits and one walk in the ninth inning. He failed to get the job done in a tied game and has now pitched back-to-back days, so he will likely be unavailable Saturday. 16 PC-7 ST (4/12/13)
Cleveland Indians
(CL) Solid Chris Perez (R)âWas used in a non-save situation on Sunday retiring all three batters he faced in order in the ninth inning. He struck out one batter while forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out on just nine pitches thrown. 9 PC-7 ST (4/14/13)
(SU) Vinnie Pestano (R)âPitched one inning of relief on Sunday allowing a home run to Alejandro De Aza to increase the White Sox's lead to 3-1 in the eighth inning. Pestano needed 28 pitches to would through the inning, but with a day off on Monday, he will be ready to go for the team's next game. 28 PC-20 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) Bryan Shaw (R)âPitched a 1-2-3 seventh inning on Sunday striking out two batters while forcing one fly ball out to get the job done. Shaw has now pitched back-to-back days, but with a day off on Monday he will be ready to go on Tuesday when the Indains take on the Red Sox. 15 PC-9 ST (4/14/13)Detroit Tigers(CL) Committee Joaquin Benoit (R)âPitched 1.2 innings of relief on Saturday in a non-save situation giving up one hit and two walks while striking out four batters. Despite being in a ninth inning committee, Benoit has yet to earn a save this season, but saves could be expected in the neat future. 36 PC-18 ST (4/13/13)
(CL) Committee Phil Coke (L)âPitched 0.2 innings of relief on Saturday giving up one hit while striking out one batter. This was Coke's first appearance since Wednesday, so he will be available on Sunday and will likely be used in the closer role due to Joaquin Benoit's high pitch count on Saturday. 15 PC-9 ST (4/13/13)
(MR) Octavio Dotel (R)âPitched 0.2 innings of relief on Friday night retiring both batters he faced in order on five pitches thrown. It was reported prior to Opening Day that Dotel would be part of the Tigers closer committee, but he has yet to be used in a save situation, so anyone holding onto hope with him should reconsider owning him. 5 PC-4 ST (4/12/13)
Houston Astros
(CL) Shaky Jose Veras (R)âTook the loss and was charged with his first blown-save of the season Saturday after surrendering two runs on two hits and one walk in the ninth inning. Save chances are few and far between for Veras, so when he fails to convert, it is hard to have him on your fantasy team. 19 PC-11 ST (4/13/13)
(SU) Rhiner Cruz (R)âPitched one inning of relief on Sunday allowing two runs on two hits and one walk. This was Cruz's third straight day he was used in relief, so it was no surprise he wasn't at his best, so expect him to get the day off on Monday. 17 PC-8 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) Wesley Wright (L)--Pitched one inning of relief on Monday allowing two runs on two hits and one walk while striking out one batter. This was not the type of outing the Astros wanted to see from Wright, but at least the game was already out of reach before he entered the game. 23 PC-12 ST (4/15/13)
Injured--Josh Fields  (Forearm)
Kansas City Royals
(CL) Shaky Greg Holland (R)âRecorded his second save of the season on Tuesday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning. Holland allowed three base runners in the appearance and was able to work through the jam to lock down a win for the Royals, but it is only a matter of time before all the base runners he allows to start turning into runs for the other team. 27 PC-15 ST (4/9/13)
(SU) Kelvin Herrera (R)âPicked up the win on Sunday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning in a non-save situation . Herrera continued his hot start on Sunday, now totaling 11 strikeouts and has yet to give up an earned-run this season. 18 PC-13 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) Aaron Crow (R)âRecorded his first save of the season on Monday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning giving up one walk while striking out one batter. It should be noted that both Greg Holland and Kelvin Herrera had pitched back-t-back days leading up to this game, so they were likely unavailable to pitch, so don't expect to see Crow in this type of situation too often. 16 PC-10 ST (4/8/13)
Los Angeles Angels
(CL) Shaky Ernesto Frieri (R)âRecorded his second save of the season on Sunday after recording the final four outs of the game. All four of his outs were via the strikeout, which is his specialty and the Astros worst enemy, so it was a nice pairing that favored Frieri in this one. 24 PC-15 ST (4/14/13)
(SU) Sean Burnett (L)--Picked up his first hold of the season Sunday after pitching a 1-2-3 seventh inning. Burnett has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely be given a day of rest on Monday. 11 PC-7 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) Scott Downs (L)âPicked up his second hold of the season Sunday after pitching 0.2 innings of relief. Downs allowed two base runners and was pulled before any damage could be done, as he continues to struggle early on this season. 20 PC-12 ST (4/14/13)
Injured:  Ryan Madson (Elbow)Minnesota Twins(CL) Solid Glen Perkins (L)âPitched  one inning of relief on Friday allowing two runs on two hits and one walk in a non-save situation. This was his first appearance since Sunday, so the Twins wanted him to get some work in before he is needed in a save situation. 23 PC-14 ST (4/12/13)
(SU) Jared Burton (R)âPicked up his third hold of the season Monday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning. Burton allowed one hit in the appearance, but worked through it by forcing two ground ball outs while striking out one batter to continue his scoreless innings streak. 14 PC-10 ST (4/15/13)
(MR) Casey Fien (R)âWas used to record the final three outs of the game Tuesday night retiring all three batters he faced in order. The Twins had a big lead in this contest, so they wanted to give Fien some extra work, and he was able to get the job done and seal the deal for the Twins. 12 PC-8 ST (4/15/13)New York Yankees(CL) Elite Mariano Rivera (R)âRecorded his second save of the season Friday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning. He allowed one hit in the appearance, but was able to get through the appearance by forcing three fly ball outs in the first time taking the mound since last Sunday. 15 PC-9 ST (4/12/13)
(SU) David Robertson (R)âWas used in the ninth inning on Saturday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. This was Robertson's first appearance since last Sunday, so this was likely an appearance to keep him fresh for when they need him in a more important situation. 10 PC-7 ST (4/13/13)
(MR) Boone Logan (R)âPitched 1.1 innings of relief on Monday allowing one hit and one walk while striking out two batters. This was Logan's better performance of the season, also his longest, but if he continues to allow base runners at this clip, it will only lead to trouble down the road. 18 PC-12 ST (4/8/13)Oakland Athletics(CL) Solid Grant Balfour (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Monday retiring all three batters he faced in order in a non-save situation . Balfour's last two appearances have now been non-save situations, but at least he is staying fresh and looking good when he takes the mound. 20 PC-12 ST (4/15/13)
(SU) Ryan Cook(R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Sunday in a non-save situation allowing one walk on 13 pitches thrown. The Athletics didn't want to go with Grant Balfour in this one since it wan't a save situation, so Cook got some extra work and was ablel to hold the Tigers from scoring any more in this one. 13 PC-6 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) Sean Doolittle (L)âPicked up his second hold of the season Monday after pitching 0.2 innings of relief. He allowed one walk in the appearance, but was able to not let that effect him by striking out one batter while forcing a fly ball out to work out of the jam and extend his scoreless innings streak. 13 PC-8 ST (4/15/13)Seattle Mariners(CL) Solid Tom Wilhelmsen (R)âRecorded his fifth save of the season Sunday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out one batter. Wilhemlsen has come out the gate firing this season and has only one outing thus far that he would want to take back, so his job security is pretty good right now. 9 PC-7 ST (4/14/13)
(SU) Stephen Pryor (R)âPicked up his third hold of the season Sunday after pitching 1.1 innings of relief. He allowed one walk while striking out two batters, and has yet to give up an earned-run this season. 28 PC-16 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) Charlie Furbush (L)âFailed to record an out in his appearance on Friday after giving up one hit and one walk in the seventh inning. Furbush now has back-to-back rough outings, which could lead to less meaningful appearances in the near future. 5 PC-1 ST (4/12/13)Tampa Bay Rays(CL) Solid Fernando Rodney (R)âRecorded his first save of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning. Rodney allowed one hit while striking out one batter, in what was his first appearance in which he didn't give up an earned-run. 15 PC-10 ST (4/10/13)
(SU) Joel Peralta (R)âTook the loss on Monday after giving up one run on one hit and one walk in the ninth inning. Peralta surrendered a game-winning double to Mike Napoli with one out in the ninth inning, which scored Dustin Pedroia to seal the victory for the Red Sox. 16 PC-10 ST (4/15/13)
(MR) Jake McGee (L)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Monday giving up one walk while striking out two batters. It was a clean inning for McGee, but he needed 27 pitches to get the job done, and until he learns to pitch to contact, he is going to have a lot high pitch counts in his early years. 27 PC-15 ST (4/15/13)
Texas Rangers
(CL) Elite Joe Nathan (R)âRecorded his fourth save of the season Saturday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning. Nathan needed only 10 pitches to work through the Mariners lineup, and is now 4-for-4 in save opportunities this season. 10 PC-6 ST (4/13/13)
(SU) Jason Frasor (R)âPitched 0.1 innings of relief on Friday night allowing two hits on eight pitches thrown. This is the type of situation Frasor has started to be used in for the Rangers, and if it continues, it will limit his fantasy upside. 8 PC-7 ST (4/12/13)
(MR) Tanner Scheppers (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Sunday retiring all three batters he faced in order. With this appearance Scheppers remains perfect on the season as he continues the transformation from a starter to a reliever. 13 PC-8 ST (4/14/13)
Injuredâ Joakim Soria (Elbow)Toronto Blue Jays(CL) Shaky Casey Janssen (R)âRecorded his fourth save of the season Monday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out two batters. Janssen has been solid through the first two weeks of the season, and now with Sergio Santos on the disabled- list, there is no competition for the closer role. 15 PC-9 ST (4/15/13)
(SU) Steve Delabar (R)âPitched 1.1 innings of relief on Sunday allowing one hit and one walk while striking out one batter. This was a nice bounce back appearance for Delabar, who surrendered a run in his previous outing, and continues to be a solid middle reliever for the Blue Jays. 21 PC-13 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) Esmil Rogers (R)--Picked up his second hold of the season Monday after pitching one inning of relief, facing only three batters. With Sergio Santos landing on the disabled-list, Rogers now moves up one spot in the depth chart and should get plenty of hold opportunities moving forward. 7 PC-4 ST (4/15/13)
Injured-- Sergio Santos (Triceps)Continue to Page 2 to view the National League Bullpen Report...
National League Bullpen ReportArizona Diamondbacks(CL) Solid J.J. Putz (R)âPicked up the win on Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing just one walk while striking out one batter. Putz hasn't done much for his fantasy owners through the first two weeks of the season, so it was nice to see him notch a victory at the very least. 15 PC-7 ST (4/14/13)
(SU) David Hernandez (R)âPicked up his third hold of the season Friday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning. Hernandez allowed one hit and one walk in the outing, but was able to get the job done by forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out to go along with another strikeout to add to his growing total. 18 PC-11 ST (4/12/13)
(MR) Heath Bell (R)âPitched 0.2 innings of relief on Saturday giving up one hit while striking out two batters in a non-save situation. Bell has yet to be used in a meaningful role this season, but that could change with a few more outings like this one. 16 PC-10 ST (4/13/13)Atlanta Braves(CL) Elite Craig Kimbrel (R)âRecorded his sixth save of the season on Saturday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning. Kimbrel has now pitched back-to-back days, but has limited his pitch count in each contest, so there is a chance the Braves would allow him to pitch again on Sunday. 10 PC-8 ST (4/13/13)
(SU) Eric OâFlaherty (R)âPicked up his fourth hold of the season after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. Like Kimbrel, O'Flaherty has now pitched back-to-back days, but hasn't thrown many pitches, so he may still be able to pitch if needed on Sunday. 6 PC-5 ST (4/13/13)
(MR) Jordan Walden (R)âPitched one inning of relief on Friday night giving up two hits on 11 pitches thrown. Walden got himself into a jam, but was able to work through the base runners by forcing three ground ball outs to get through the outing. 11 PC-8 ST (4/12/13)
Injuredâ Jonny Venters (Elbow)Chicago Cubs(CL) Committee James Russell (L)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Saturday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. With Kjuji Fujikawa on the disabled list, Russell and Shawn Camp will likely slpit the closer role, giving Russell some added fantasy value until Fujikawa is healthy enough to return. 13 PC-8 ST (4/13/13)
(CL) Committee Shawn Camp (R)--Took the loss and was charged with his first blown-save of the season Sunday after allowing four runs on five hits in 1.2 innings of relief. This was not the type of outing Camp wanted as his first since being mentioned as part of a closer-committee, so give Jame Russell the early nod after this meltdown. 39 PC-24 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) Carlos Marmol (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Sunday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Marmol has found his control since being removed from the ninth inning role, but it is unlikely the Cubs look to him to take over the role if both Shawn Camp and James Russell struggle. 10 PC-6 ST (4/14/13)
Injured--Kyuji Fujikawa (Forearm)Cincinnati Reds(CL) Elite Aroldis Chapman (L)âRecorded his third save of the season Monday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out two batters. Chapman has now pitched back-to-back days, but threw just 0.1 innings of relief on Sunday, so he should still be able to pitch if needed on Tuesday for a save situation. 14 PC-9 ST (4/15/13)
(SU) Jonathan Broxton (R)--Suffered his worst outing of the season on Sunday surrendering six runs on three walks and three hits, two of which were home runs. With this appearance Broxton falls to 0-1 on the season and now has two blown-save through the first two weeks of the season. 31 PC-13 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) J.J. Hoover (R)--Pitched 1.2 innings of relief on Saturday giving up two hits while striking out one batter on 27 pitches thrown. Hoover has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely be unavailable to pitch on Sunday. 27 PC-17 ST (4/13/13)
Injured--Sean Marshall (Shoulder)Colorado Rockies(CL) Solid Rafael Betancourt (R)âRecorded his fifth save of the season Sunday despite giving up one run on two walks in the ninth inning. This marked the first appearance in which he allowed an earned-run, but it wasn't enough to stop him from sealing the deal and converting his fifth save in a row. 20 PC-10 ST (4/14/13)
(SU) Rex Brothers (L)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Saturday night in a non-save situation giving up one hit while striking out one batter. Brothers has now pitched back-to-back days and may get the day off on Sunday. 7 PC-6 ST (4/13/13)
(MR) Wilton Lopez (R)âPicked up his first hold of the season Sunday after pitching a 1-2-3 seventh inning. He struck out two batters in the appearance while forcing the other batter to ground out, needing 17 pitches to work through the inning. 17 PC-12 ST (4/14/13)Los Angeles Dodgers(CL) Shaky Brandon League (R)âRecorded his fourth save of the season on Saturday retiring all three batters he faced in order. League was able to keep him pitch count low in this contest, so he will be available for the series finale on Sunday. 14 PC-9 ST (4/13/13)
(SU) Kenley Jansen (R)âEarned his fourth hold of the season despite giving up two runs on three hits in one inning of relief. Jansen needed 27 pitches to work out of the jam, and will probably get the day off on Sunday due to a high pitch count. 27 PC-16 ST (4/13/13)
(MR) Ronald Belisario (R)âTook the loss on Monday night after allowing two runs on one hit and two walks in the seventh inning.l Belisario failed to record an out in the appearance, throwing only 14 pitches, and now falls to 0-2 which isn't a good way to start the year. 14 PC-6 ST (4/15/13)Miami Marlins(CL) Solid Steve Cishek (R)âPicked up the win on Saturday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. It is nice to see Cishek finally benefit his fantasy owners giving them a win, considering he has yet to earn a save through the first two weeks of the season. 13 PC-8 ST (4/13/13)
(SU) Jon Rauch (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Monday in a non-save situation giving up one hit in the outing. After giving up runs in each of his last two appearances, Rauch settled down in this one, and having now pitched back-to-back days, it looks like he will get the day off on Tuesday. 14 PC-11 ST (4/15/13)
(MR) Mike Dunn (L)âPitched one inning of relief on Saturday giving up one hit and one walk while striking out one batter. Dunn has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely be unavailable to pitch on Sunday. 23 PC-18 ST (4/13/13)Milwaukee Brewers(CL) Shaky Jim Henderson (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Sunday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Henderson has yet to have a save opportunity since taking over the closer role, but the chances will come eventually, so fantasy owners should not panic at this point. 10 PC-8 ST (4/14/13)
(SU) John Axford (R)âPitched a scoreless seventh inning on Saturday retiring all three batters he faced in order striking out one batter. It was nice to see a clean outing from Axford, but the damage has already been done and may not get a chance to earn the closer role back in Jim Henderson is successful. 15 PC-8 ST (4/13/13)
(MR) Michael Gonzalez (L)âPicked up his first hold of the season Sunday after recording only one out in the 10th inning. The Brewers decided to go with pitcher/hitter matchups in the final frame, and it worked out as the Brewers escaped with the win. 7 PC-2 ST (4/14/13)New York Mets(CL) Shaky Bobby Parnell (R)âRecorded his first save of the season on Saturday despite giving up one run on two hits while striking out two batters. It wasn't the type of appearance that fantasy owners wanted to see, but at least he was able to finally record a save this season. 17 PC-14 ST (4/13/13)
(SU) Brandon Lyon (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Tuesday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Lyon has looked great so far this season and now has four strikeouts over 3.1 innings of scoreless relief. 10 PC- 7 ST (4/9/13)
(MR) Josh Edgin (L)âPitched two innings of relief on Wednesday allowing one hit while striking out four batters. Edgin allowed just one base runner in the appearance, and will likely get the day off on Friday after finishing with a high pitch count. 29 PC-21 ST (4/10/13)
Injuredâ Frank Francisco (Elbow)Philadelphia Phillies(CL) Elite Jonathan Papelbon (R)âRecorded his third save of the season on Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing only one walk on 22 pitches thrown. Papelbon is now 3-for-3 in save opportunities this season and continues to prove why he is one of the best closers in all of baseball. 22 PC-11 ST (4/14/13)
(SU) Mike Adams (R)âPitched 0.2 innings of relief on Monday giving up two hits while striking out one batter. Adams went in the game in relief of Jeremy Horst, who was charged with two earned-runs in the inning, and was able to limit the damage done, but it wasn't enough for the Phillies to escape with the victory. 15 PC-9 ST (4/15/13)
(MR) Antonio Bastardo (L)âPitched a scoreless seventh inning on Saturday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Bastardo has yet to give up an earned-run this season and has now pitched back-to-back days. 11 PC-8 ST (4/13/13)Pittsburgh Pirates(CL) Solid Jason Grilli (R)--Recorded his fifth save of the season on Saturday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning. Grilli remains perfect on the season and is now 5-for-5 in save opportunities, but has now pitched back-to-back days. 18 PC-13 ST (4/13/13)
(SU) Mark Melancon (R)âPitched one inning of relief on Sunday allowing one run on one hit while striking out two batters. The run given up by Melancon was his first of the season, and he has now pitched three straight days and will not be available to pitch on Monday. 13 PC-9 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) Jared Hughes (R)âPicked up the win on Sunday despite allowing one run on three hits in the eighth inning. Hughes can thank Jonathan Broxton for the win, after he imploded in the bottom half of the inning or else this would have been a negative appearance for him. 20 PC-14 ST (4/14/13)San Diego Padres(CL) Solid Huston Street (R)âRecorded his second save of the season Monday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning. Street had blown his last appearance by surrendering two runs, but this time around he looked sharp, forcing one ground ball out and two fly ball outs to get the job done. 17 PC-10 ST (4/15/13)
(SU) Luke Gregerson (R)âPicked up his second hold of the season Monday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning. He allowed two base runners in the inning, but was able to work out of the jam by forcing three ground ball outs. 17 PC-8 ST (4/15/13)
(MR) Dale Thayer (R)âTook the loss on Sunday after surrendering two runs on one hit and one walk in the seventh inning. The runs came via a pinch-hit home run by  Todd Helton which gave the Rockies the lead and eventually the victory in a very low scoring game. 25 PC-15 ST (4/14/13)San Francisco Giants(CL) Elite Sergio Romo (R)âRecorded his seventh save of the season on Sunday after pitching a scoreless 10th inning. This was Romo's first appearance since recording his first blown-save, so it was nice to see him get back on track without it turning into a cold streak. 9 PC-8 ST (4/14/13)
(SU) Javier Lopez (L)âWalked the only batter that he faced in the ninth inning faling to record an out in a tight game. This was Lopez's first appearance since Wednesday, which proves why he isn't more than a flier in deep holds leagues since he is not used as often as most setup men. 10 PC-6 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) Santiago Casilla (R)âPitched 0.2 innings of relief on Sunday retiring both batters he faced in order. Casilla needed just six pitched to forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out getting the job done to end the eighth inning. 6 PC-4 ST (4/14/13)St. Louis Cardinals(CL) Shaky Mitchell Boggs (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Monday in a non-save situation allowing one hit and one walk while striking out one batter. Boggs has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely be given the day off on Tuesday, considering his recent struggles. 22 PC--14 ST (4/15/13)
(SU) Edward Mujica (R)âPitched 0.2 innings of relief on Sunday retiring both batters he faced in order. The Cardinals bullpen as a whole has been shaky this season, but Mujica has been the one player that has been consistent throughout, making him a solid pitcher for those in holds leagues. 8 PC-4 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) Trevor Rosenthal (R)--Picked up his third hold of the season despite allowing two runs on two hits in the eighth inning. Rosenthal is expected to be the closer-in-waiting for the Cardinals, with Mitchell Boggs struggling, but if he can't keep runner from scoring himself it may take longer for him to take over the role. 21 PC-15 ST (4/14/13)
Injuredâ Jason Motte (Elbow)Washington Nationals(CL) Elite Rafael Soriano (R)âDespite pitching back-to-back days, the Nationals decided to go with Soriano in the ninth inning on Thursday to lock down the win and record his fifth save of the season. After pitching three straight days now, there is no way we will see Soriano take the mound when the team's starts a series with the Braves on Friday. 24 PC-17 ST (4/11/13)
(SU) Drew Storen (R)âWas charged with his first blown-save of the season Friday after allowing two runs on three hits and one walk in 1.1 innings of relief. With Rafael Soriano unavailable, the Nationals called upon Storen to close out the game, but he failed to get the job done, so maybe the team with think twice when using him in that situation in the future. 24 PC-15 ST (4/12/13)
(SU) Tyler Clippard (R)âEarned his third save of the season Friday night despite giving up one run on one hit and three walks in 0.2 innings of relief. Clippard threw 5 pitches in this appearance and has now pitched back-to-back days, so he will likely be unavailable to pitch on Saturday. 35 PC-18 ST (4/12/13)Matthew Beck is a Fantasy Sports Columnist for Rotoinfo.com. If you have any questions or comments feel free to e-mail him at matthewbeck@rotoinfo.com. Also follow him on Twitter @MatthewRBeck for up-to-date Q&A and fantasy information. And, to make setting your Fantasy Baseball lineup easy, be sure to And, to utilize RotoInfo.comâs new MLB Lineup Grids.

National League Bullpen ReportArizona Diamondbacks(CL) Solid J.J. Putz (R)âPicked up the win on Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing just one walk while striking out one batter. Putz hasn't done much for his fantasy owners through the first two weeks of the season, so it was nice to see him notch a victory at the very least. 15 PC-7 ST (4/14/13)
(SU) David Hernandez (R)âPicked up his third hold of the season Friday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning. Hernandez allowed one hit and one walk in the outing, but was able to get the job done by forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out to go along with another strikeout to add to his growing total. 18 PC-11 ST (4/12/13)
(MR) Heath Bell (R)âPitched 0.2 innings of relief on Saturday giving up one hit while striking out two batters in a non-save situation. Bell has yet to be used in a meaningful role this season, but that could change with a few more outings like this one. 16 PC-10 ST (4/13/13)Atlanta Braves(CL) Elite Craig Kimbrel (R)âRecorded his sixth save of the season on Saturday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning. Kimbrel has now pitched back-to-back days, but has limited his pitch count in each contest, so there is a chance the Braves would allow him to pitch again on Sunday. 10 PC-8 ST (4/13/13)
(SU) Eric OâFlaherty (R)âPicked up his fourth hold of the season after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. Like Kimbrel, O'Flaherty has now pitched back-to-back days, but hasn't thrown many pitches, so he may still be able to pitch if needed on Sunday. 6 PC-5 ST (4/13/13)
(MR) Jordan Walden (R)âPitched one inning of relief on Friday night giving up two hits on 11 pitches thrown. Walden got himself into a jam, but was able to work through the base runners by forcing three ground ball outs to get through the outing. 11 PC-8 ST (4/12/13)
Injuredâ Jonny Venters (Elbow)Chicago Cubs(CL) Committee James Russell (L)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Saturday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. With Kjuji Fujikawa on the disabled list, Russell and Shawn Camp will likely slpit the closer role, giving Russell some added fantasy value until Fujikawa is healthy enough to return. 13 PC-8 ST (4/13/13)
(CL) Committee Shawn Camp (R)--Took the loss and was charged with his first blown-save of the season Sunday after allowing four runs on five hits in 1.2 innings of relief. This was not the type of outing Camp wanted as his first since being mentioned as part of a closer-committee, so give Jame Russell the early nod after this meltdown. 39 PC-24 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) Carlos Marmol (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Sunday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Marmol has found his control since being removed from the ninth inning role, but it is unlikely the Cubs look to him to take over the role if both Shawn Camp and James Russell struggle. 10 PC-6 ST (4/14/13)
Injured--Kyuji Fujikawa (Forearm)Cincinnati Reds(CL) Elite Aroldis Chapman (L)âRecorded his third save of the season Monday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out two batters. Chapman has now pitched back-to-back days, but threw just 0.1 innings of relief on Sunday, so he should still be able to pitch if needed on Tuesday for a save situation. 14 PC-9 ST (4/15/13)
(SU) Jonathan Broxton (R)--Suffered his worst outing of the season on Sunday surrendering six runs on three walks and three hits, two of which were home runs. With this appearance Broxton falls to 0-1 on the season and now has two blown-save through the first two weeks of the season. 31 PC-13 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) J.J. Hoover (R)--Pitched 1.2 innings of relief on Saturday giving up two hits while striking out one batter on 27 pitches thrown. Hoover has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely be unavailable to pitch on Sunday. 27 PC-17 ST (4/13/13)
Injured--Sean Marshall (Shoulder)Colorado Rockies(CL) Solid Rafael Betancourt (R)âRecorded his fifth save of the season Sunday despite giving up one run on two walks in the ninth inning. This marked the first appearance in which he allowed an earned-run, but it wasn't enough to stop him from sealing the deal and converting his fifth save in a row. 20 PC-10 ST (4/14/13)
(SU) Rex Brothers (L)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Saturday night in a non-save situation giving up one hit while striking out one batter. Brothers has now pitched back-to-back days and may get the day off on Sunday. 7 PC-6 ST (4/13/13)
(MR) Wilton Lopez (R)âPicked up his first hold of the season Sunday after pitching a 1-2-3 seventh inning. He struck out two batters in the appearance while forcing the other batter to ground out, needing 17 pitches to work through the inning. 17 PC-12 ST (4/14/13)Los Angeles Dodgers(CL) Shaky Brandon League (R)âRecorded his fourth save of the season on Saturday retiring all three batters he faced in order. League was able to keep him pitch count low in this contest, so he will be available for the series finale on Sunday. 14 PC-9 ST (4/13/13)
(SU) Kenley Jansen (R)âEarned his fourth hold of the season despite giving up two runs on three hits in one inning of relief. Jansen needed 27 pitches to work out of the jam, and will probably get the day off on Sunday due to a high pitch count. 27 PC-16 ST (4/13/13)
(MR) Ronald Belisario (R)âTook the loss on Monday night after allowing two runs on one hit and two walks in the seventh inning.l Belisario failed to record an out in the appearance, throwing only 14 pitches, and now falls to 0-2 which isn't a good way to start the year. 14 PC-6 ST (4/15/13)Miami Marlins(CL) Solid Steve Cishek (R)âPicked up the win on Saturday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. It is nice to see Cishek finally benefit his fantasy owners giving them a win, considering he has yet to earn a save through the first two weeks of the season. 13 PC-8 ST (4/13/13)
(SU) Jon Rauch (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Monday in a non-save situation giving up one hit in the outing. After giving up runs in each of his last two appearances, Rauch settled down in this one, and having now pitched back-to-back days, it looks like he will get the day off on Tuesday. 14 PC-11 ST (4/15/13)
(MR) Mike Dunn (L)âPitched one inning of relief on Saturday giving up one hit and one walk while striking out one batter. Dunn has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely be unavailable to pitch on Sunday. 23 PC-18 ST (4/13/13)Milwaukee Brewers(CL) Shaky Jim Henderson (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Sunday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Henderson has yet to have a save opportunity since taking over the closer role, but the chances will come eventually, so fantasy owners should not panic at this point. 10 PC-8 ST (4/14/13)
(SU) John Axford (R)âPitched a scoreless seventh inning on Saturday retiring all three batters he faced in order striking out one batter. It was nice to see a clean outing from Axford, but the damage has already been done and may not get a chance to earn the closer role back in Jim Henderson is successful. 15 PC-8 ST (4/13/13)
(MR) Michael Gonzalez (L)âPicked up his first hold of the season Sunday after recording only one out in the 10th inning. The Brewers decided to go with pitcher/hitter matchups in the final frame, and it worked out as the Brewers escaped with the win. 7 PC-2 ST (4/14/13)New York Mets(CL) Shaky Bobby Parnell (R)âRecorded his first save of the season on Saturday despite giving up one run on two hits while striking out two batters. It wasn't the type of appearance that fantasy owners wanted to see, but at least he was able to finally record a save this season. 17 PC-14 ST (4/13/13)
(SU) Brandon Lyon (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Tuesday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Lyon has looked great so far this season and now has four strikeouts over 3.1 innings of scoreless relief. 10 PC- 7 ST (4/9/13)
(MR) Josh Edgin (L)âPitched two innings of relief on Wednesday allowing one hit while striking out four batters. Edgin allowed just one base runner in the appearance, and will likely get the day off on Friday after finishing with a high pitch count. 29 PC-21 ST (4/10/13)
Injuredâ Frank Francisco (Elbow)Philadelphia Phillies(CL) Elite Jonathan Papelbon (R)âRecorded his third save of the season on Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing only one walk on 22 pitches thrown. Papelbon is now 3-for-3 in save opportunities this season and continues to prove why he is one of the best closers in all of baseball. 22 PC-11 ST (4/14/13)
(SU) Mike Adams (R)âPitched 0.2 innings of relief on Monday giving up two hits while striking out one batter. Adams went in the game in relief of Jeremy Horst, who was charged with two earned-runs in the inning, and was able to limit the damage done, but it wasn't enough for the Phillies to escape with the victory. 15 PC-9 ST (4/15/13)
(MR) Antonio Bastardo (L)âPitched a scoreless seventh inning on Saturday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Bastardo has yet to give up an earned-run this season and has now pitched back-to-back days. 11 PC-8 ST (4/13/13)Pittsburgh Pirates(CL) Solid Jason Grilli (R)--Recorded his fifth save of the season on Saturday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning. Grilli remains perfect on the season and is now 5-for-5 in save opportunities, but has now pitched back-to-back days. 18 PC-13 ST (4/13/13)
(SU) Mark Melancon (R)âPitched one inning of relief on Sunday allowing one run on one hit while striking out two batters. The run given up by Melancon was his first of the season, and he has now pitched three straight days and will not be available to pitch on Monday. 13 PC-9 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) Jared Hughes (R)âPicked up the win on Sunday despite allowing one run on three hits in the eighth inning. Hughes can thank Jonathan Broxton for the win, after he imploded in the bottom half of the inning or else this would have been a negative appearance for him. 20 PC-14 ST (4/14/13)San Diego Padres(CL) Solid Huston Street (R)âRecorded his second save of the season Monday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning. Street had blown his last appearance by surrendering two runs, but this time around he looked sharp, forcing one ground ball out and two fly ball outs to get the job done. 17 PC-10 ST (4/15/13)
(SU) Luke Gregerson (R)âPicked up his second hold of the season Monday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning. He allowed two base runners in the inning, but was able to work out of the jam by forcing three ground ball outs. 17 PC-8 ST (4/15/13)
(MR) Dale Thayer (R)âTook the loss on Sunday after surrendering two runs on one hit and one walk in the seventh inning. The runs came via a pinch-hit home run by  Todd Helton which gave the Rockies the lead and eventually the victory in a very low scoring game. 25 PC-15 ST (4/14/13)San Francisco Giants(CL) Elite Sergio Romo (R)âRecorded his seventh save of the season on Sunday after pitching a scoreless 10th inning. This was Romo's first appearance since recording his first blown-save, so it was nice to see him get back on track without it turning into a cold streak. 9 PC-8 ST (4/14/13)
(SU) Javier Lopez (L)âWalked the only batter that he faced in the ninth inning faling to record an out in a tight game. This was Lopez's first appearance since Wednesday, which proves why he isn't more than a flier in deep holds leagues since he is not used as often as most setup men. 10 PC-6 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) Santiago Casilla (R)âPitched 0.2 innings of relief on Sunday retiring both batters he faced in order. Casilla needed just six pitched to forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out getting the job done to end the eighth inning. 6 PC-4 ST (4/14/13)St. Louis Cardinals(CL) Shaky Mitchell Boggs (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Monday in a non-save situation allowing one hit and one walk while striking out one batter. Boggs has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely be given the day off on Tuesday, considering his recent struggles. 22 PC--14 ST (4/15/13)
(SU) Edward Mujica (R)âPitched 0.2 innings of relief on Sunday retiring both batters he faced in order. The Cardinals bullpen as a whole has been shaky this season, but Mujica has been the one player that has been consistent throughout, making him a solid pitcher for those in holds leagues. 8 PC-4 ST (4/14/13)
(MR) Trevor Rosenthal (R)--Picked up his third hold of the season despite allowing two runs on two hits in the eighth inning. Rosenthal is expected to be the closer-in-waiting for the Cardinals, with Mitchell Boggs struggling, but if he can't keep runner from scoring himself it may take longer for him to take over the role. 21 PC-15 ST (4/14/13)
Injuredâ Jason Motte (Elbow)Washington Nationals(CL) Elite Rafael Soriano (R)âDespite pitching back-to-back days, the Nationals decided to go with Soriano in the ninth inning on Thursday to lock down the win and record his fifth save of the season. After pitching three straight days now, there is no way we will see Soriano take the mound when the team's starts a series with the Braves on Friday. 24 PC-17 ST (4/11/13)
(SU) Drew Storen (R)âWas charged with his first blown-save of the season Friday after allowing two runs on three hits and one walk in 1.1 innings of relief. With Rafael Soriano unavailable, the Nationals called upon Storen to close out the game, but he failed to get the job done, so maybe the team with think twice when using him in that situation in the future. 24 PC-15 ST (4/12/13)
(SU) Tyler Clippard (R)âEarned his third save of the season Friday night despite giving up one run on one hit and three walks in 0.2 innings of relief. Clippard threw 5 pitches in this appearance and has now pitched back-to-back days, so he will likely be unavailable to pitch on Saturday. 35 PC-18 ST (4/12/13)Matthew Beck is a Fantasy Sports Columnist for Rotoinfo.com. If you have any questions or comments feel free to e-mail him at matthewbeck@rotoinfo.com. Also follow him on Twitter @MatthewRBeck for up-to-date Q&A and fantasy information. And, to make setting your Fantasy Baseball lineup easy, be sure to And, to utilize RotoInfo.comâs new MLB Lineup Grids. Player News
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