Fantasy Baseball: MLB Daily Bullpen Usage and Depth Chart 4/12
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 fourth save of the season Thursday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning. Johnson worked around one hit to get the job done and has now pitched back-to-back days for the first time this season. 18 PC-11 ST (4/11/13)
(SU) Pedro Strop (R)âPicked up his first hold of the season Thursday after pitching a scoreless seventh inning giving up just one hit in the appearance. Strop has really got it going over his last three inning, and has allowed just one hit in those appearances. 13 PC-10 ST (4/11/13)
(MR) Darren O'Day (R)--Picked up his second hold of the season Thursday after pitching a 1-2-3 eighth inning. O'Day has yet to give up an earned-run this season extending his scoreless innings streak to five innings to start the season. 9 PC-8 ST (4/11/13)
Boston Red Sox
(CL) Solid Joel Hanrahan (R)âWas charged with the loss and his first blown-save Wednesday after surrendering five earned-run on three hits and two walks in the ninth inning. He served up two home runs, which caused the damage and forced Hanrahan out fo the game without making it through the inning. 31 PC-17 ST (4/10/13)
(SU) Andrew Bailey (R)âPicked up his fourth hold of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning. He allowed one walk in the appearance while striking out two batters and forcing on fly ball out to get the job done. 18 PC-9 ST (4/10/13)
(MR) Koji Uehara (R)âPitched 0.1 innings of relief on Thursday allowing one hit and one walk recording the final out of the seventh inning. Uehara was called upon to work out of a jam, then made the situation even worse by allowing two base runners, but was able to escape unharmed while pitching on back-to-back days. 8 PC-4 ST (4/11/13)Chicago White Sox(CL) Solid Addison Reed (R)âPicked up a win on Sunday after pitching a scoreless 10th inning in a tied game, giving up one hit and one walk on 25 pitches thrown. Reed got himself into trouble, but was able to work out of the jam by forcing two fly ball outs and striking out one batter. (4/7/13)
(SU) Matt Thornton (L)âRecorded the final two outs of the eighth inning but did not escape unharmed. Thornton gave up one run on three hits, one hit being a home run, and has now given up an earned-run in back-to-back games. 13 PC-8 ST (4/9/13)
(MR) Jesse Crain (R)âPitched one inning of relief on Thursday giving up one run on two hits while striking out one batter on 18 pitches thrown. This was Crain's first outing in which he gave up an earned-run, but even when he is pitching well he isn't much of a fantasy option outside of deep holds leagues. 18 PC-13 ST (4/11/12)
Cleveland Indians
(CL) Solid Chris Perez (R)âWas used in a non-save situation on Monday giving up one hit in the ninth inning. The Indians hadn't used Perez since last Wednesday, so they decided to used him in the ninth inning despite the fact that they were down by five runs, that way he could still get some work in for the day. 19 PC-12 ST (4/8/13)
(SU) Vinnie Pestano (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Sunday in a non-save situation giving up one hit and two walks while striking out two batters. He got himself into a bit of a jam, but with a 13 run lead it really didn't matter. (4/7/13)
(MR) Bryan Shaw (R)âPitched two innings of relief on Friday night giving up one run while striking out three batters on 23 pitches thrown. Shaw has pitched well through his first few appearances with the Indians, and should continue to be used in meaningful spots, for those of you in holds leagues. (4/5/13)Detroit Tigers(CL) Committee Joaquin Benoit (R)âPitched one inning of relief on Tuesday allowing one run on two hits in a non-save situation. Benoit surrendered another long ball, which has been a problem of his the last two seasons, and if that continues when in save situations, it could take him out of the closer role. 20 PC-13 ST (4/9/13)
(CL) Committee Phil Coke (L)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Wednesday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Prior to Wednesday's outing, Coke had given up three runs over his last two appearances, but this outing proved that he  has gotten over his rough patch and should be good to insert back in fantasy lineups in holds leagues. 10 PC-9 ST (4/10/13)
(MR) Octavio Dotel (R)âWas charged with his first blown-save of the season on Wednesday after allowing two hits and one walk in 1.2 innings of relief. Dotel had just two appearances prior to Wednesday's contest, so it is tough to evaluate just how good our bad he is going to do this season, but he should  not be in fantasy consideration outside of deep holds leagues. 31 PC-21 ST (4/10/13)
Houston Astros
(CL) Shaky Jose Veras (R)âWas used in the ninth inning Wednesday in a non-save situation giving up one hit while striking out one batter. Veras has been shaky this season, but has yet to be used in a meaningful situation, so it is hard judge say how he will do once in a save situation, so owners should hold onto him for the time being. 10 PC-7 ST (4/10/13)
(SU) Josh Fields (R)âRetired the only batter he faced in the seventh inning on Wednesday on four pitches forcing a fly ball out. Through two appearances this season, Fields has looked sharp and has yet to give up an earned run. (4/3/13)
(MR) Rhiner Cruz (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Wednesday allowing one hit and one walk on 22 pitches thrown. It is tough to say if any Astros reliever will have any fantasy value this season, but the way it looks now both saves and holds will be tough to come by, so it will be tough for them to hold fantasy value despite their solid efforts on the mound. 22 PC-13 ST (4/10/13)
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)âRecorded his second save of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit while striking out three batters. It was announced prior to the game that Herrera would be the closer for this contest, due to Holland's high pitch count from the night before, but the team has to like their Plan B if they choose to go that way. 21 PC-13 ST (4/10/13)
(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)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Wednesday in a non-save situation giving up one hit and one walk on 15 pitches thrown. Frieri has been used in only one save situation so far this season, and is expected to return to the setup role once Ryan Madson is ready to return to the team. 15 PC-8 ST (4/10/13)
(SU) Sean Burnett (L)--Pitched one inning of relief on Thursday allowing one run on two hits and one walk while working through the seventh inning. This was Burnett's first game in which he allowed an earned-run, ending his scoreless innings streak at 3.2 innings of relief. 24 PC-12 ST (4/11/13)
(MR) Scott Downs (L)âPicked up his first hold of the season Tuesday despite allowing one urn on one hit in the seventh inning. Downs has had a rough start to the 2013 season, and if he continues down this road, he will be delegated to cleanup roles when the Angels either have huge leads or are getting blown out. (4/9/13)
Injured:  Ryan Madson (Elbow)Minnesota Twins(CL) Solid Glen Perkins (L)âRecorded his second save of the season Sunday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out two batters. Perkins had it going Sunday, needing only 11 pitches to get through the appearance and has now pitched back-to-back days. (4/7/13)
(SU) Jared Burton (R)âPitched 0.1 innings of relief on Monday, giving up one hit and one walk in the appearance. Burton has now pitched back-to-back days, but due to low pitch counts, he should be available out of the bullpen on Tuesday. 9 PC-4 ST (4/8/13)
(MR) Casey Fien (R)âPitched 1.2 innings of relief on Wednesday allowing one hit and two walks in the appearance. Due to his high pitch count, Fien will likely get the next few days off, so don't expect him to take the mound until Saturday. 35 PC-23 ST (4/10/13)New York Yankees(CL) Elite Mariano Rivera (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Sunday in a non-save situation giving up two hits while striking out one batter. This marked Rivera's second appearance of the season, and has currently given up one earned run, three hits and recorded two strikeouts in two innings of work. (4/7/13)
(SU) David Robertson (R)âWas used in the eighth inning on Sunday giving up two hits while striking out two batters on 20 pitches thrown. Robertson threw a first-pitch strike to four of the five batters he faced, which is encouraging, but it is never good to have multiple base runners in any situation. (4/7/13)
(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 Tuesday night in a non-save situation giving up one hit and one walk in the appearance. It wasn't the best of outings, but at least Balfour escaped unharmed after allowing two base runners in the final frame. 21 PC-11 ST (4/9/13)
(SU) Ryan Cook(R)âPicked up the win on Tuesday after pitching 1.2 innings of relief allowing just one hit while striking out three batters. Cook threw 30 pitches in this appearance, so it hard to believe the Athletics will want to put him back on the mound, if needed on Wednesday. (4/9/13)
(MR) Sean Doolittle (L)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Tuesday night retiring all three batters he faced in order. Doolittle remains perfect on the season after Tuesday's outing, and has been able to keep relatively low pitch counts in all of his appearances thus far this season. 15 PC-11 ST (4/9/13)Seattle Mariners(CL) Solid Tom Wilhelmsen (R)âRecorded his third save of the season Monday night after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning. After early issues with allowing base runners early last week, it appears Wilhelmsen has worked on his control and is attacking more at the plate, so any concerns should now be washed away. 12 PC-8 ST (4/8/13)
(SU) Stephen Pryor (R)âWas called upon to record the final two outs of the ninth inning on Thursday and was able to strike out both batters he faced on 10 pitches thrown. Pryor has now pitched back-to-back days and may be unavailable to pitch, if needed on Friday night. 10 PC-8 ST (4/11/13)
(MR) Charlie Furbush (L)âPitched two innings of relief on Tuesday night allowing two runs on two hits and three walks. He needed 48 pitches to get through the appearance, which is really high, so don't expect to see Furbush out there for at least one or two games after this one. 48 PC-27 ST (4/9/13)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)âPicked up his second hold of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning. H allowed two base runners in the appearance, but was able to make it through the appearance by forcing two fly ball outs. 12 PC-10 ST (4/10/13)
(MR) Jake McGee (L)âEarned his first hold of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless seventh inning. He allowed one walk while striking out one batter and has now pitched back-to-back days. 24 PC-14 ST (4/10/13)
Texas Rangers
(CL) Elite Joe Nathan (R)âRecorded his third save of the season Thursday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out one batter. This was Nathan's first appearance since notching save No. 300 for this career, and looked sharp for save No. 301 against a mediocre Mariners lineup. 11 PC-7 ST (4/11/13)
(SU) Jason Frasor (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Tuesday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Frasor forced one ground ball out and two fly ball out to work through the appearance in what was a nice bounce back game from his two-runs allowed in Saturday's game. 12 PC-10 ST (4/9/13)
(MR) Tanner Scheppers (R)âEarned his second hold of the season Thursday after pitching 0.2 innings of scoreless relief. It wasn't the cleanest of outings, allowing two base runners, but his scoreless innings streak was extended to 5.1 innings. 21 PC-11 ST (4/11/13)
Injuredâ Joakim Soria (Elbow)Toronto Blue Jays(CL) Shaky Casey Janssen (R)âRecorded his second save of the season Wednesday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out two batters. Janssen was lights out in this contest, and has now struck out five batters in his last three innings to start the 2013 season.  11 PC-8 ST (4/10/13)
(SU) Sergio Santos (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Saturday in a non-save situation giving up one hit on 14 pitches thrown. Santos looked solid in this outing striking out one batter while forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out to get the job done. (4/6/13)
(MR) Steve Delabar (R)âWas used to pitch two innings on Thursday giving up one run on three hits. Delabar has now pitched back-to-back days, so it is unlikely he will be available out of the Blue Jays bullpen when they take on the Royals on Friday. 38 PC-28 ST (4/11/13)Continue to Page 2 to view the National League Bullpen Report...
National League Bullpen ReportArizona Diamondbacks(CL) Solid J.J. Putz (R)âWas used in a non-save situation on Wednesday pitching a scoreless ninth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. He struck out three batters in the appearance and has now recorded at least two strikeouts in each of his first three appearances this season. 18 PC-11 ST (4/10/13)
(SU) David Hernandez (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Tuesday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Hernandez has been lights out to start the season and has now recorded seven strikeouts through his first five innings this season. 8 PC-8 ST (4/9/13)
(MR) Heath Bell (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Tuesday night allowing one hit while striking out one batter. This was a nice bounce back outing from Bell, who had a rough appearance on Sunday, but he still needs to show more consistency before he becomes a staple in holds leagues. 18 PC-12 ST (4/9/13)Atlanta Braves(CL) Elite Craig Kimbrel (R)âRecorded his fourth save of the season Tuesday after pitching yet another scoreless ninth inning. Kimbrel as now pitched back-to-back days, along with Eric O'Flaherty, so if there is a save opportunity on Wednesday look for Jordan Walden to get the call. 12 PC- 5 ST (4/9/13)
(SU) Eric OâFlaherty (R)âPicked up his third hold of the season on Tuesday despite allowing one run on one hit and two walks in the eighth inning. O'Flaherty has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely get the day off on Wednesday, especailly if you consider his high pitch count. 24 PC-10 ST (4/9/13)
(MR) Jordan Walden (R)âWas used in the ninth inning on Sunday in a non-save situation, retiring all three batters he faced via strikeout. Walden looked good in this one, and has now put together back-to-back solid outings, and appears to have settled into his new role with his new team. (4/7/13)
Injuredâ Jonny Venters (Elbow)Chicago Cubs(CL) Shaky Kyuji Fujikawa (R)âRecorded his second save of the season Tuesday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing just one hit while striking out two batters. Fujikawa worked through the heart of the Brewers lineup and was successful in his first appearance as the team's closer. (4/9/13)
(SU) James Russell (L)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Thursday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order via strikeout. With Kyuji Fujikawa promoted to closer, James Russell will now be the team's primary setup man and be next in line if Fujikawa was to falter. 19 PC-13 ST (4/11/13)
(MR) Carlos Marmol (R)âPicked up the win on Tuesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning giving up one just hit on nine pitches thrown. Marmol has now logged two straight solid outings, and appears to have settled into his new role outside of the ninth inning, where he was unsuccessful. 9 PC-7 ST (4/9/13)Cincinnati Reds(CL) Elite Aroldis Chapman (L)âRecorded his second save of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning, striking out two batters on 17 pitches thrown. Chapman has now pitched back-to-back days and three of the last four games, so a day off is likely for this flamethrower on Monday. (4/7/13)
(SU) Jonathan Broxton (R)âPicked up his first hold of the season on Sunday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. He struck out one batter in the appearance while forcing two fly ball outs on only 10 pitches thrown to remain perfect through his first three innings of work. (4/7/13)
(MR) J.J. Hoover (R)--Pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Monday in a non-save situation giving up one walk while striking out two batters. This was a nice bounce back outing for Hoover, who gave up two runs in his previous appearance, and will need to learn to get over outings like that quick if he wants to be successful in the  big leagues. 21 PC-12 ST (4/8/13)
Injured--Sean Marshall (Shoulder)Colorado Rockies(CL) Solid Rafael Betancourt (R)âPitching for the second straight day, Betancourt recorded his third save of the season Saturday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning. Betancourt gave up one hit in the appearance, but was able to work around the base runner, forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball to end it. (4/6/13)
(SU) Rex Brothers (L)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Wednesday allowing one hit and two walks while striking out one batter. Brothers got himself into trouble, but was able to work through the jam by forcing two fly ball outs. 32 PC-16 ST (4/10/13)
(MR) Wilton Lopez (R)âPitched one inning of relief on Tuesday night allowing one run on three hits while striking out one batter. Lopez was the last of three relievers used in this game to give up at least one run, so most of the damage was done prior to him entering the game. 21 PC-15 ST (4/9/13)Los Angeles Dodgers(CL) Shaky Brandon League (R)âRecorded his third save of the season Thursday despite allowing two runs on three hits in the ninth inning. Only one run was earned, but League did not look good, needing 34 pitches to get the job done, leaving his availability for Thursday in question. 34 PC-23 ST (4/10/13)
(SU) Kenley Jansen (R)âEarned his first save of the season on Thursday with Brandon League unavailable due to a high pitch count. Jansen retired all three batters he faced in order, but after pitching back-to-back days, it is unlikely we will see him take the mound of Friday. 13 PC-8 ST (4/11/13)
(MR) Ronald Belisario (R)âPicked up his third hold of the season Thursday after recording the first two outs of the eighth inning. He allowed one hit in the inning, which was a close game, or else the Dodgers probably would have kept him in the game, instead of playing the matchups. 11 PC-8 ST (4/11/13)Miami Marlins(CL) Solid Steve Cishek (R)âTook the loss and was charged with his first blown-save Sunday after allowing two runs on two hits and two walks in the ninth inning. This was his first save chance of the season, and considering how bad the Marlins offense/pitching staff are, there aren't going to be many chances this season. (4/7/13)
(SU) Jon Rauch (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Tuesday night in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Rauch as looked good his last two appearances, but in terms of fantasy, he will have a tough time gaining any value due to the team he plays for. 7 PC-6 ST (4/9/13)
(MR) Mike Dunn (L)âPitched one inning of relief on Wednesday allowing one hit while striking out one batter on 11 pitches thrown. Through his last three appearances, Dunn as recorded four strikeouts, and has looked good out of the Marlins bullpen early on this season. 11 PC-8 ST (4/10/13)Milwaukee Brewers(CL) Shaky Jim Henderson (R)âRecorded his first save of the season on Monday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning giving up one hit while striking out two batters. Although the team still considers John Axford to be the closer, he is only one or two home runs allowed away from being removed from the role, so Henderson could take over the closer role sooner than later. 30 PC-22 ST (4/8/13)
(SU) John Axford (R)âTook the loss on Tuesday night after surrendering three runs on one hit and two walks in 0.2 innings of work. Axford has just lost the closer role earlier in the day, and after this showing, it appearance he has lost all confidence in his pitches and himself. 16 PC-4 ST (4/9/13)
(MR) Michael Gonzalez (L)âPitched a scoreless 11th inning Sunday giving up one hit while striking out one batter. He needed 16 pitches to get through the appearance forcing one ground ball out to get through the appearance. (4/7/13)New York Mets(CL) Shaky Bobby Parnell (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Wednesday retiring all three batters he faced in order recording two strikeouts. This was Parnell's third appearance of the season, but has yet to be used in a save-situation, which has limited his fantasy value early on. 10 PC-9 ST (4/10/13)
(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)âWas used in a non-save situation on Wednesday allowing one run while striking out one batter in the ninth inning. This was Papelbon's first appearance in almost a week, and with a day off on Thursday the team wanted him to get some work in before their series with the Marlins starting Friday. 7 PC-6 ST (4/10/13)
(SU) Mike Adams (R)âPitched one inning of relief on Wednesday allowing one run on one hit, which was a home run by Lucas Duda. Besides the one pitch that got away, Adams looked great, striking out three batters and now has five strikeouts over his last 2.1 innings of relief. 19 PC-11 ST (4/10/13)
(MR) Antonio Bastardo (L)âPitched a scoreless seventh inning Wednesday allowing one hit while forcing one ground ball out and two fly ball outs to get the job done. Through his first three appearances, Bastrado has yet to give up an earned run, but has allowed at least one base runner in those contests, which means the runs are coming if this trend continues. 21 PC-11 ST (4/10/13)Pittsburgh Pirates(CL) Solid Jason Grilli (R)--Recorded his third save of the season Tuesday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning giving up one hit while striking out one batter. With this outing Grilli remains perfect on the season, but has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely get the day off on Wednesday. 17 PC-11 ST (4/9/13)
(SU) Mark Melancon (R)âPicked up his second hold of the season Tuesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. Melancon has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely get the day off on Wednesday. 7 PC-6 ST (4/9/13)
(MR) Jared Hughes (R)âPitched two innings of relief on Wednesday, retiring all six batters he faced in order. With both Mark Melancon and Jason Grilli unavailable to Pirates turned to Hughes to hold off the onslaught, and he was able to get the job done with ease. 23 PC-17 ST (4/10/13)San Diego Padres(CL) Solid Huston Street (R)âWas used in a non-save situation Thursday night allowing one hit in a scoreless ninth inning. This was Street's first appearance in seven days, so the team wanted him to get some game action before he gets too rusty, even though there was nothing on the line. 19 PC-13 ST (4/11/13)
(SU) Luke Gregerson (R)âTook the loss on Thursday after giving up a game-winning home run to Juan Uribe in the eighth inning. The earned-run given up by Gregerson was the first run he has allowed this season, ending his scoreless inning streak before the end of Week 2. 18 PC-13 ST (4/11/13)
(MR) Dale Thayer (R)âPicked up his second hold of the season Tuesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. He struck out two batters while forcing one fly ball out to get the job done and remain perfect through the first week of the season. 18 PC-12 ST (4/9/13)San Francisco Giants(CL) Elite Sergio Romo (R)âRecorded his sixth save of the season Thursday after pitching yet another scoreless ninth inning. Not only has Romo converted all sic of his save chances, he has been a strikeout machine, fanning 10 batters through his first six innings pitched. 15 PC-12 ST (4/11/13)
(SU) Javier Lopez (L)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Wednesday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Lopez struck out one batter while forcing two ground ball outs on just nine pitches thrown in the outing. 9 PC-7 ST (4/10/13)
(MR) Santiago Casilla (R)âPicked up his second hold of the season Thursday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning giving up one hit while striking out one batter on 15 pitches thrown. After a shaky start to the season, Casilla has put together three straight solid outings and could be a nice option in holds leagues moving forward. 15 PC-9 ST (4/11/13)St. Louis Cardinals(CL) Shaky Mitchell Boggs (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Tuesday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Boggs rebounded nicely from a nightmare outing on Monday and appears to have a grasp on the ninth inning role for the time being. 12 PC-8 ST (4/9/13)
(SU) Edward Mujica (R)âPicked up his fourth hold of the season on Tuesday after pitching a 1-2-3 seventh inning. With all the talks swirling around the Cardinals bullpen, Mujica's name hasn't been mentioned in regards to the closer role if Mitchell Boggs was to falter, so expect him to continue to keep his value only in holds leagues. 11 PC-9 ST (4/9/12)
(MR) Trevor Rosenthal (R)--Picked up his first hold of the season Tuesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning giving up one hit while striking out one batter. Rosenthal appears to be in line to become the next closer for the Cardinals, if Mitchell Boggs can't get the job done, so may be wise to pick him up and stash him now to take a wait-and-see approach with this situation. 11 PC-7 ST (4/9/13)
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)âPicked up his third hold of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one hit on 15 pitches thrown. Storen has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely get the day off on Thursday, so if you have another option it would be wise to bench him until Friday. 15 PC-9 ST (4/10/13)
(SU) Tyler Clippard (R)âPicked up his second hold of the season Thursday after pitching a 1-2-3 eighth inning. There was speculation that Clippard may get the call to close the ninth inning with both Drew Storen and Rafael Soriano having pitched back-to-back days, but he was only used in a setup role, which shows how the team feels about him moving forward. 11 PC-7 ST (4/11/13)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)âWas used in a non-save situation on Wednesday pitching a scoreless ninth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. He struck out three batters in the appearance and has now recorded at least two strikeouts in each of his first three appearances this season. 18 PC-11 ST (4/10/13)
(SU) David Hernandez (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Tuesday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Hernandez has been lights out to start the season and has now recorded seven strikeouts through his first five innings this season. 8 PC-8 ST (4/9/13)
(MR) Heath Bell (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Tuesday night allowing one hit while striking out one batter. This was a nice bounce back outing from Bell, who had a rough appearance on Sunday, but he still needs to show more consistency before he becomes a staple in holds leagues. 18 PC-12 ST (4/9/13)Atlanta Braves(CL) Elite Craig Kimbrel (R)âRecorded his fourth save of the season Tuesday after pitching yet another scoreless ninth inning. Kimbrel as now pitched back-to-back days, along with Eric O'Flaherty, so if there is a save opportunity on Wednesday look for Jordan Walden to get the call. 12 PC- 5 ST (4/9/13)
(SU) Eric OâFlaherty (R)âPicked up his third hold of the season on Tuesday despite allowing one run on one hit and two walks in the eighth inning. O'Flaherty has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely get the day off on Wednesday, especailly if you consider his high pitch count. 24 PC-10 ST (4/9/13)
(MR) Jordan Walden (R)âWas used in the ninth inning on Sunday in a non-save situation, retiring all three batters he faced via strikeout. Walden looked good in this one, and has now put together back-to-back solid outings, and appears to have settled into his new role with his new team. (4/7/13)
Injuredâ Jonny Venters (Elbow)Chicago Cubs(CL) Shaky Kyuji Fujikawa (R)âRecorded his second save of the season Tuesday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing just one hit while striking out two batters. Fujikawa worked through the heart of the Brewers lineup and was successful in his first appearance as the team's closer. (4/9/13)
(SU) James Russell (L)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Thursday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order via strikeout. With Kyuji Fujikawa promoted to closer, James Russell will now be the team's primary setup man and be next in line if Fujikawa was to falter. 19 PC-13 ST (4/11/13)
(MR) Carlos Marmol (R)âPicked up the win on Tuesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning giving up one just hit on nine pitches thrown. Marmol has now logged two straight solid outings, and appears to have settled into his new role outside of the ninth inning, where he was unsuccessful. 9 PC-7 ST (4/9/13)Cincinnati Reds(CL) Elite Aroldis Chapman (L)âRecorded his second save of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning, striking out two batters on 17 pitches thrown. Chapman has now pitched back-to-back days and three of the last four games, so a day off is likely for this flamethrower on Monday. (4/7/13)
(SU) Jonathan Broxton (R)âPicked up his first hold of the season on Sunday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. He struck out one batter in the appearance while forcing two fly ball outs on only 10 pitches thrown to remain perfect through his first three innings of work. (4/7/13)
(MR) J.J. Hoover (R)--Pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Monday in a non-save situation giving up one walk while striking out two batters. This was a nice bounce back outing for Hoover, who gave up two runs in his previous appearance, and will need to learn to get over outings like that quick if he wants to be successful in the  big leagues. 21 PC-12 ST (4/8/13)
Injured--Sean Marshall (Shoulder)Colorado Rockies(CL) Solid Rafael Betancourt (R)âPitching for the second straight day, Betancourt recorded his third save of the season Saturday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning. Betancourt gave up one hit in the appearance, but was able to work around the base runner, forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball to end it. (4/6/13)
(SU) Rex Brothers (L)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Wednesday allowing one hit and two walks while striking out one batter. Brothers got himself into trouble, but was able to work through the jam by forcing two fly ball outs. 32 PC-16 ST (4/10/13)
(MR) Wilton Lopez (R)âPitched one inning of relief on Tuesday night allowing one run on three hits while striking out one batter. Lopez was the last of three relievers used in this game to give up at least one run, so most of the damage was done prior to him entering the game. 21 PC-15 ST (4/9/13)Los Angeles Dodgers(CL) Shaky Brandon League (R)âRecorded his third save of the season Thursday despite allowing two runs on three hits in the ninth inning. Only one run was earned, but League did not look good, needing 34 pitches to get the job done, leaving his availability for Thursday in question. 34 PC-23 ST (4/10/13)
(SU) Kenley Jansen (R)âEarned his first save of the season on Thursday with Brandon League unavailable due to a high pitch count. Jansen retired all three batters he faced in order, but after pitching back-to-back days, it is unlikely we will see him take the mound of Friday. 13 PC-8 ST (4/11/13)
(MR) Ronald Belisario (R)âPicked up his third hold of the season Thursday after recording the first two outs of the eighth inning. He allowed one hit in the inning, which was a close game, or else the Dodgers probably would have kept him in the game, instead of playing the matchups. 11 PC-8 ST (4/11/13)Miami Marlins(CL) Solid Steve Cishek (R)âTook the loss and was charged with his first blown-save Sunday after allowing two runs on two hits and two walks in the ninth inning. This was his first save chance of the season, and considering how bad the Marlins offense/pitching staff are, there aren't going to be many chances this season. (4/7/13)
(SU) Jon Rauch (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Tuesday night in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Rauch as looked good his last two appearances, but in terms of fantasy, he will have a tough time gaining any value due to the team he plays for. 7 PC-6 ST (4/9/13)
(MR) Mike Dunn (L)âPitched one inning of relief on Wednesday allowing one hit while striking out one batter on 11 pitches thrown. Through his last three appearances, Dunn as recorded four strikeouts, and has looked good out of the Marlins bullpen early on this season. 11 PC-8 ST (4/10/13)Milwaukee Brewers(CL) Shaky Jim Henderson (R)âRecorded his first save of the season on Monday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning giving up one hit while striking out two batters. Although the team still considers John Axford to be the closer, he is only one or two home runs allowed away from being removed from the role, so Henderson could take over the closer role sooner than later. 30 PC-22 ST (4/8/13)
(SU) John Axford (R)âTook the loss on Tuesday night after surrendering three runs on one hit and two walks in 0.2 innings of work. Axford has just lost the closer role earlier in the day, and after this showing, it appearance he has lost all confidence in his pitches and himself. 16 PC-4 ST (4/9/13)
(MR) Michael Gonzalez (L)âPitched a scoreless 11th inning Sunday giving up one hit while striking out one batter. He needed 16 pitches to get through the appearance forcing one ground ball out to get through the appearance. (4/7/13)New York Mets(CL) Shaky Bobby Parnell (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Wednesday retiring all three batters he faced in order recording two strikeouts. This was Parnell's third appearance of the season, but has yet to be used in a save-situation, which has limited his fantasy value early on. 10 PC-9 ST (4/10/13)
(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)âWas used in a non-save situation on Wednesday allowing one run while striking out one batter in the ninth inning. This was Papelbon's first appearance in almost a week, and with a day off on Thursday the team wanted him to get some work in before their series with the Marlins starting Friday. 7 PC-6 ST (4/10/13)
(SU) Mike Adams (R)âPitched one inning of relief on Wednesday allowing one run on one hit, which was a home run by Lucas Duda. Besides the one pitch that got away, Adams looked great, striking out three batters and now has five strikeouts over his last 2.1 innings of relief. 19 PC-11 ST (4/10/13)
(MR) Antonio Bastardo (L)âPitched a scoreless seventh inning Wednesday allowing one hit while forcing one ground ball out and two fly ball outs to get the job done. Through his first three appearances, Bastrado has yet to give up an earned run, but has allowed at least one base runner in those contests, which means the runs are coming if this trend continues. 21 PC-11 ST (4/10/13)Pittsburgh Pirates(CL) Solid Jason Grilli (R)--Recorded his third save of the season Tuesday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning giving up one hit while striking out one batter. With this outing Grilli remains perfect on the season, but has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely get the day off on Wednesday. 17 PC-11 ST (4/9/13)
(SU) Mark Melancon (R)âPicked up his second hold of the season Tuesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. Melancon has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely get the day off on Wednesday. 7 PC-6 ST (4/9/13)
(MR) Jared Hughes (R)âPitched two innings of relief on Wednesday, retiring all six batters he faced in order. With both Mark Melancon and Jason Grilli unavailable to Pirates turned to Hughes to hold off the onslaught, and he was able to get the job done with ease. 23 PC-17 ST (4/10/13)San Diego Padres(CL) Solid Huston Street (R)âWas used in a non-save situation Thursday night allowing one hit in a scoreless ninth inning. This was Street's first appearance in seven days, so the team wanted him to get some game action before he gets too rusty, even though there was nothing on the line. 19 PC-13 ST (4/11/13)
(SU) Luke Gregerson (R)âTook the loss on Thursday after giving up a game-winning home run to Juan Uribe in the eighth inning. The earned-run given up by Gregerson was the first run he has allowed this season, ending his scoreless inning streak before the end of Week 2. 18 PC-13 ST (4/11/13)
(MR) Dale Thayer (R)âPicked up his second hold of the season Tuesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. He struck out two batters while forcing one fly ball out to get the job done and remain perfect through the first week of the season. 18 PC-12 ST (4/9/13)San Francisco Giants(CL) Elite Sergio Romo (R)âRecorded his sixth save of the season Thursday after pitching yet another scoreless ninth inning. Not only has Romo converted all sic of his save chances, he has been a strikeout machine, fanning 10 batters through his first six innings pitched. 15 PC-12 ST (4/11/13)
(SU) Javier Lopez (L)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Wednesday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Lopez struck out one batter while forcing two ground ball outs on just nine pitches thrown in the outing. 9 PC-7 ST (4/10/13)
(MR) Santiago Casilla (R)âPicked up his second hold of the season Thursday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning giving up one hit while striking out one batter on 15 pitches thrown. After a shaky start to the season, Casilla has put together three straight solid outings and could be a nice option in holds leagues moving forward. 15 PC-9 ST (4/11/13)St. Louis Cardinals(CL) Shaky Mitchell Boggs (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Tuesday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Boggs rebounded nicely from a nightmare outing on Monday and appears to have a grasp on the ninth inning role for the time being. 12 PC-8 ST (4/9/13)
(SU) Edward Mujica (R)âPicked up his fourth hold of the season on Tuesday after pitching a 1-2-3 seventh inning. With all the talks swirling around the Cardinals bullpen, Mujica's name hasn't been mentioned in regards to the closer role if Mitchell Boggs was to falter, so expect him to continue to keep his value only in holds leagues. 11 PC-9 ST (4/9/12)
(MR) Trevor Rosenthal (R)--Picked up his first hold of the season Tuesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning giving up one hit while striking out one batter. Rosenthal appears to be in line to become the next closer for the Cardinals, if Mitchell Boggs can't get the job done, so may be wise to pick him up and stash him now to take a wait-and-see approach with this situation. 11 PC-7 ST (4/9/13)
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)âPicked up his third hold of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one hit on 15 pitches thrown. Storen has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely get the day off on Thursday, so if you have another option it would be wise to bench him until Friday. 15 PC-9 ST (4/10/13)
(SU) Tyler Clippard (R)âPicked up his second hold of the season Thursday after pitching a 1-2-3 eighth inning. There was speculation that Clippard may get the call to close the ninth inning with both Drew Storen and Rafael Soriano having pitched back-to-back days, but he was only used in a setup role, which shows how the team feels about him moving forward. 11 PC-7 ST (4/11/13)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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