Fantasy Baseball: MLB Daily Bullpen Usage and Depth Chart 5/2
Published: Apr 02, 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)âEarned his 10th save of the season Saturday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit. Johnson has now pitched back-to-back days and three of his last four, so there is a chance he may be given the day off Sunday considering the team is not off on Monday. 15 PC-9 ST (4/27/13)
(SU) Darren OâDay (R)âPitched a scoreless inning of relief on Tuesday night allowing one hit while striking out one batter. O'Day made it through the month of April allowing just one earned-run, and has now emerged as one of the best setup men in the American League. 22 PC-14 ST (4/30/13)
(MR) Pedro Strop (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning Wednesday night allowing two walks while striking out one batter. Strops struggles continued in this appearance, expect this time he did not allow any runs, but if he keeps allowing base runner at this clip, he is going to find himself in a lot of tough positions. 20 PC-8 ST (5/1/13)
Boston Red Sox
(CL) Shaky Andrew Bailey (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Sunday in a non-save situation allowing one hit on 13 pitches thrown. With Joel Hanrahan on a rehab assignment, Bailey's time at the closer could be coming to an end, but the team has yet to release who will be their closer, so owners will have to wait patiently to see if he holds any value moving forward. 13 PC-8 ST (4/28/13)
(SU) Joel Hanrahan (R)--In his first appearance since returning from the disabled list, Hanrahan allowed one run on two hits in the eighth inning. Prior to the game the Red Sox announced that Andrew Bailey would stay in the closer role, despite the return of Hanrahan, which means he has little to no fantasy value in standard leagues. 17 PC-10 ST (4/30/13)
(MR) Koji Uehara (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning Sunday allowing one hit while forcing one ground ball out and two fly ball outs to get the job done. The Red Sox are off on Monday, so Uehara and the rest of the team's bullpen will have an extra day to rest up before they open a series with the Blue Jays on Tuesday. 14 PC-12 ST (4/28/13)Chicago White Sox(CL) Solid Addison Reed (R)âCollected his ninth save of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless ninth frame, allowing one hit on 22 pitches thrown. Reed struck out two batters while forcing one fly ball out, and has now converted all nine of his save opportunities this season. 22 PC-15 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Matt Thornton (L)âEarned his seventh hold of the season Wednesday after recording the final out of the eighth inning. Jesse Crain got himself into a jam at the beginning of the inning, but Thornton was able to clean up his mess and secure the White Sox lead. 3 PC-3 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Jesse Crain (R)âPicked up his sixth hold of the season Wednesday after recording the first two outs of the eighth inning. It wasn't the cleanest of outings, considering he allowed two base runners, but he kept his cool forcing one fly ball out and striking out one batter before being relieved by Matt Thornton, who did not allow the base runners to cross home plate. 22 PC-17 ST (5/1/13)
Cleveland Indians
(CL) Solid Chris Perez (R)âWas used in  a non-save situation in Game 2 of Sunday's doubleheader, retiring the side in order. Perez has pitched well this season, but has just three saves to show for it, so unless the Indians start winning more games, it could be a long year for Perez owners. 16 PC-13 ST (4/28/13)
(SU) Vinnie Pestano (R)âPitched one inning of relief in Game 2 of Sunday's doubleheader allowing one run on one hit and two walks. The run allowed did not change the game at all, considering the Indians where up by so much, but it would have been nice to see a clean outing from him, since he last pitched on April 22. (4/28/13)
(MR) Bryan Shaw (R)âPitched 1.2 innings of relief on Wednesday allowing two hits and one walk while striking out two batters. Shaw got himself into a jam, but was able to work around it by forcing three ground ball outs, to keep a sub-1.00 earned-run average on the season. 39 PC-24 ST (5/1/13)Detroit Tigers(CL) Solid Jose Valverde (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Sunday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. It was a surprise to see Valverde take the mound in this contest, considering he pitched on Saturday, but he only threw six pitches, so he should be able to pitch, if needed, on Monday. 6 PC-5 ST (4/28/13)
(SU) Joaquin Benoit (R)âRetired the final two batters in Tuesday's win over the Twins, forcing one ground ball out and one strikeout. Benoit was used in a similar situation on Monday, so despite pitching back-to-back days, he should be able to pitch on Wednesday if needed. 12 PC-11 ST (4/30/13)
(MR) Phil Coke (L)âTook the loss on Thursday after surrendering four runs on one hit and four walks over 1.1 innings of work. The wheels have officially fallen off for Coke, who has now given up five runs over his last two appearances, factoring into his 0-3 start to the season. 33 PC-14 ST (4/25/13)
Injuredâ Octavio Dotel (Shoulder)
Houston Astros
(CL) Shaky Jose Veras (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Saturday retiring all three batters he faced in order striking out one. This is the type of outing we have grown accustomed to seeing from Veras, considering how poor the Astros have been playing, which has limited his fantasy value more than originally anticipated. 13 PC-9 ST (4/27/13)
(SU) Rhiner Cruz (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning Tuesday night allowing two hits while striking out one batter. Rhiner got himself into a jam, but worked through it to keep the Yankees lead within reach. 14 PC-10 ST (4/30/13)
(MR) Wesley Wright (L)âPitched 1.2 innings of relief on Wednesday allowing two hits on 20 pitches thrown. Wright has now pitched back-to-back days and will likely get the day off on Thursday. 20 PC-14 ST (5/1/13)
InjuredâJosh Fields  (Forearm)
Kansas City Royals
(CL) Solid Greg Holland (R)âCollected his seventh save of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. Holland has pitched great over his last few appearances, but was now used on back-to-back nights, so there is a good chance we will see Kelvin Herrera in the closer role on Thursday if a save situation was to arise. 14 PC-9 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Kelvin Herrera (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning Tuesday night allowing one hit while striking out one batter. Herrera has now pitched back-to-back days, and three of the last four, so don't expect to see him pitch on Wednesday. 19 PC-12 ST (4/30/13)
(MR) Aaron Crow (R)âEarned his fifth hold of the season Wednesday after pitching 1.1 innings of scoreless relief. Crow retired all four batters he faced in order, forcing one ground ball out, two fly ball outs and striking out one batter to pass the ball to closer Greg Holland to seal the victory for the Royals. 14 PCP-9 ST (5/1/13)
Los Angeles Angels
(CL) Shaky Ernesto Frieri (R)âEarned his fourth save of the season Wednesday after pitching the final 1.2 innings to hold onto a one run lead. Frieri threw a lot of pitches in this contest (35), so there is a good chance that you may see Sean Burnett used in the closer role on Thursday if a save situation arises. 35 PC-18 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Sean Burnett (L)âPicked up his third hold of the season Friday after recording the final two outs of the sixth inning. He needed only 10 pitches to get the job done, forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out, as he continues to be the best bridge between the Angels starters and Ernesto Frieri. 10 PC-5 ST (4/26/13)
(MR) Scott Downs (L)âEarned his fifth hold of the season Wednesday despite allowing one run on two hits in the eighth inning. Downs only recorded one out in the appearance, as he continues to struggle with his pitch location early in the season. 8 PC-6 ST (5/1/13)
Injured:  Ryan Madson (Elbow)Minnesota Twins(CL) Solid Glen Perkins (L)âWas used in a non-save situation on Wednesday allowing two hits while striking out one batter in the ninth inning. Perkins has been used in non-save situations in each of his last two appearances, which doesn't help his fantasy owners, but at least he as escaped unharmed in each contest. 13 PC-11 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Jared Burton (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Wednesday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Burton has been great in the setup role so far this season, and would be a great option for saves if something was to happen to Glen Perkins. 15 PC-8 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Casey Fien (R)âEarned his second hold of the season Wednesday after pitching a 1-2-3 seventh inning. Fien needed 17 pitches to get through the outing, forcing one ground ball out, one fly ball out and striking out one to help the Twins pull out the victory at the end of the series. 17 PC-11 ST (5/1/13)New York Yankees(CL) Elite Mariano Rivera (R)âRecorded his 11th save of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit while striking out one batter. Rivera has now pitched back-to-back days, but with a scheduled day off on Thursday he will be ready to go when the Yankees take on the Athletics on Friday. 7 PC-7 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) David Robertson (R)âPicked up his fifth hold of the season Wednesday after pitching a 1-2-3 eighth inning. Robertson limped off the mound after twisting his ankle on during his appearance, but is expected to be available on Friday. 12 PC-9 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Boone Logan (R)âPicked up the win Wednesday after pitching 1.1 innings of scoreless relief. Logan allowing one hit in the appearance, but forcing three ground ball outs and struck out one batter to secure the Yankees one run lead. 12 PC-10 ST (5/1/13)Oakland Athletics(CL) Solid Grant Balfour (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Tuesday night in a non-save situation needing 20 pitches to get through the appearance. Balfour has now pitched back-to-back days, including one two-inning performance, so there is a chance Ryan Cook will be used in the closer role on Wednesday. 20 PC-9 ST (4/30/13)
(SU) Ryan Cook (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Wednesday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. He struck out two batters while forcing one ground ball out, with Grant Balfour unavailable. 15 PC-11 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Sean Doolittle (L)âPitched 1.1 innings of relief on Tuesday night retiring all four batters he faced in order. Doolittle, who has now pitched back-to-back days, may be given the night off on Wednesday, so fantasy owners should plan accordingly. 18 PC-13 ST (4/30/13)Seattle Mariners(CL) Solid Tom Wilhelmsen (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Wednesday night retiring all three batters he faced in order in a non-save situation. Wilhelmsen has been dynamite this season, limiting his pitch counts and base runners, as he continues to emerge as one of the best closers in the American League. 9 PC-8 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Carter Capps (R)âPitched 1.2 innings of relief Wednesday allowing one run on three hits while striking out two batters. Capps has struggled this season with his location, and in this contest that resulted in a Manny Muchado solo-home run in the eighth inning, but it did not become a deciding factor, considering the Mariners big lead. 29 PC-19 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Charlie Furbush (L)âRecorded the final out of the eighth inning Wednesday forcing the only batter he faced to strike out on just four pitches thrown. Furbush hadn't pitched since last Friday, so the team decided to used him to force a lefty on lefty matchup, which he ended up winnings with ease. 4 PC-3 ST (5/1/13)InjuredâStephen Pryor (back)Tampa Bay Rays(CL) Solid Fernando Rodney (R)âWas used in a non-save situation Sunday allowing one walk while striking out two batters on 17 pitches. Since blowing his first save of the season back on April 3, Rodney has converted all three save chances, but over a month of baseball, that just doesn't cut it considering where he was drafted. 17 PC-10 ST (4/28/13)
(SU) Joel Peralta (R)âPitched  a scoreless eighth inning on Wednesday night retiring all three batters he faced in order. Peralta is off to a great start this season, and if he is available in holds leagues it would be wise to try and get him into your starting lineup, considering he is sporting a 1.69 earned-run average with five holds. 12 PC-7 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Jake McGee (L)âTook the loss and was charged with his third blown-save Wednesday after allowing five runs on five hits and one walk in the sixth inning. McGee has been up and down this season, and this appearance was clearly one of those down moments, so if you own him in a holds league, you should probably take him out of your starting lineup until he gets back on track. 26 PC-17 ST (5/1/13)
Texas Rangers
(CL) Elite Joe Nathan (R)âRecorded his eighth save Friday night despite allowing a three-run home run in the bottom of the ninth inning. Nathan was only responsible for one of the runs that scored, with the other two being charged to Joe Ortiz, so it didn't effect his earned-run average too much. 8 PC-7 ST (4/26/13)
(SU) Tanner Scheppers (R)âPitched one inning of relief on Tuesday night allowing his first earned-run of the season. The run cam via a Adam Dunn home run in the seventh inning, but the game was already out of reach for the White Sox. 16 PC-10 ST (4/30/13)
(MR) Jason Frasor (R)âPitched 1.1. innings of relief on Wednesday retiring all four batters he faced in order. This was Frasor's fist appearance since Sunday, so expect him to be available out of the bullpen Thursday when the Rangers wrap up their series with the White Sox. 20 PC-11 ST (5/1/13)
Injuredâ Joakim Soria (Elbow)Toronto Blue Jays(CL) Solid Casey Janssen (R)âEarned his seventh save of the season Tuesday night after pitching another 1-2-3 ninth inning. Janssen has been excellent to start the season, despite still suffering lingering effects from offseason shoulder surgery, allowing only one earned-run in the month of April. 12 PC-8 ST (4/30/12)
(SU) Steve Delabar (R)âPicked up the win despite being charged with a blown-save after allowing one run on one hit and one walk while striking out one batter. Delabar has pitched well through the first month of the season, and considering his strikeout potential, he is worth owning in holds leagues. 23 PC-11 ST (4/30/13)
(MR) Esmil Rogers (R)âRecorded only one out in his appearance on Wednesday after allowing three runs on two hits and one walk in the seventh inning. The runs came via a Mike Napoli three-run home run, which increased the Red Sox lead to 9-0, but the game was already out of reach before he entered, considering the way the Red Sox bullpen has been pitching lately. 18 PC-7 ST (5/1/13)
Injuredâ Sergio Santos (Triceps)Continue to Page 2 to view the National League Bullpen Reportâ¦
National League Bullpen ReportArizona Diamondbacks(CL) Shaky J.J. Putz (R)âTook the loss on Tuesday night after blowing his fourth save of the season after allowing a game-winning home run to Pablo Sandoval in the ninth inning. Putz has been far from consistent this season, and with both David Hernandez and Heath Bell lurking, his days as the team's closer could be numbered if he continues down this road. 13 PC-9 ST (4/30/13)
(SU) David Hernandez (R)âTook the loss and was charged with his third blown-save of the year Wednesday after surrendering three runs on one hit and two walks in the eighth inning. There was some speculation that the Diamondbacks might possibly move Hernandez to the closer role with the recent struggles of J.J. Putz, but outing like this will likely make the team reconsider. 31 PC-16 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Heath Bell (R)âRecorded only the first two outs of the ninth inning Wednesday allowing two runs on on hit and two walks. With the recent struggles of J.J. Putz, there is a chance Bell could find himself in the ninth inning role in the upcoming weeks, but outing like this surely don't help his cause. 23 PC-12 ST (5/1/13)
Atlanta Braves
(CL) Elite Craig Kimbrel (R)âRecorded his ninth save of the season Monday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out one batter. This was Kimbrel's first outing since recording his first blown-save last Wednesday, so it appears the rough outing did not effect him and he is right back on track. 10 PC-7 ST (4/29/13)
(SU) Eric OâFlaherty (R)âPicked up his eighth hold of the season Monday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. O'Flaherty needed 13 pitches to work through the appearance forcing one ground ball out while striking out tow batters to get the job done. 13 PC-8 ST (4/29/13)
(MR) Jordan Walden (R)âEarned a win Monday night after pitching 1.2 innings of scoreless relief. Walden faced the minimum amount of batters, forcing one ground ball out, one fly ball out and striking out three batters to be factored into his first decision of the season. 23 PC-15 ST (4/29/13)
Injuredâ Jonny Venters (Elbow)
Chicago Cubs
(CL) Shaky Kevin Gregg (R)--Collected his fourth save of the season Monday night after retiring the final four batters of the game in order. Gregg is now 4-for-4 in save chances this season, and at this point, he should be considered the team's closer until Kyuji Fujikawa returns from injury. 16 PC-12 ST (4/29/13)
(SU) Carlos Marmol (R)âEarned his second hold of the season Saturday after recording the final out of the eighth inning. In a strange turn of events, Kevin Gregg, not Marmol, was used in the ninth inning, so Gregg has now emerged as a contender in the Cubs closer committee. 6 PC-1 ST (4/27/13)
(MR) Shawn Camp (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Tuesday night in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. With the emergence of Kevin Gregg, Camp has little to no fantasy value outside of holds leagues, unless both Gregg and Carlos Marmol fail to hold onto the job. 18 PC-12 ST (4/30/13)
InjuredâKyuji Fujikawa (Forearm)Cincinnati Reds(CL) Elite Aroldis Chapman (L)âRecorded his sixth save of the season Monday night after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning. Chapman has now pitched back-to-back days, but considering his low pitch counts, he should be able to pitch on Tuesday if the club needs him to do so. 13 PC-10 ST (4/29/13)
(SU) Jonathan Broxton (R)âEarned his third hold of the season Monday night despite allowing one run on two hits in the eighth inning. Broxton has pitched poorly as of late, and now pitching back-to-back days, he should get a day off to clear his head. 13 PC-10 ST (4/29/13)
(MR) Sean Marshall (L)--Earned his second hold of the season Sunday after retiring the final two batters of the seventh inning. Marshall has now pitched each of the last two days since returning from the disabled list, so don't expect him to be used on Monday when the Reds take on the Cardinals. 12 PC-9 ST (4/28/13)Colorado Rockies(CL) Solid Rafael Betancourt (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Wednesday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Despite a big lead, the Rockies decided to go with Betancourt to seal the victory considering he hadn't pitched in a game since last Friday, so this was just a scheduled tune up. 21 PC-15 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Rex Brothers (L)âPitched a 1-2-3 eighth inning Wednesday night striking out two batters while forcing one ground ball out on 18 pitches thrown. Brothers has now pitched back-to-back days, but with a scheduled day off on Thursday, expect him to get ready to go on Friday. 18 PC-13 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Wilton Lopez (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Monday night in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Lopez looked sharp in this non-critical outing, but has struggled in meaningful appearances this season, so maybe this role is better suited for him. 11 PC-7 ST (4/29/13)Los Angeles Dodgers(CL) Shaky Brandon League (R)âEarned his eighth save of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. League was able to put his recent struggles behind him, forcing two ground ball outs and one fly ball out to get the job done. 8 PC-6 ST (4/28/13)
(SU) Kenley Jansen (R)âFailed to record an out in his appearance on Wednesday night, allowing two runs on two hits in the seventh inning. This appearance was unlike Jansen's normal outings, so hopefully the Dodgers scheduled day off on Thursday will help him clear his head and get back on track. 14 PC-10 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Ronald Belisario (R)âPitched 0.2 innings of relief on Wednesday allowing one hit and one walk while striking out one batter. After Kenley Jansen failed to record an out in the appearance, Belisario was called upon to get out of the inning, which he did, just not in normal fashion. 11 PC-6 ST (5/1/13)Miami Marlins(CL) Shaky Steve Cishek (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Monday night in a non-save situation allowing one hit and one walk while striking out one batter. Cishek has now pitched back-to-back days, and may get a day off on Tuesday, so fantasy owners should keep there eye out for the Marlins closer in the news. 17 PC-8 ST (4/29/13)
(SU) Mike Dunn (L)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Wednesday in a non-save situation allowing one hit and one walk while striking out one batter. Dunn was able to work out of the jam, to keep the Mets lead at one run, but it didn't matter considering the Marlins ended up losing the game anyway. 17 PC-9 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Jon Rauch (R)âEarned the win in Monday's game against the Mets after pitching three innings of relief. Rauch threw 60 pitches in the appearance, so there is a good chance he will be sidelined for a few days considering his pitch count. 60 PC-37 ST (4/29/13)Milwaukee Brewers(CL) Solid Jim Henderson (R)âPitched a 1-2-3 ninth inning on Tuesday night in a non-save situation needing only 13 pitches to get the job done. The Brewers had a comfortable four-run lead in the contest, so the team used Henderson to make sure that lead did not slip away, considering he hadn't pitched since Saturday. 13 PC-9 ST (4/30/13)
(SU) John Axford (R)âTook the loss and was charged with a blown-save Wednesday after allowing four runs (three earned) on four hits in the eighth inning. He failed to get through the inning, after allowing a two-run shot to Starling Marte, as his struggled continue in terms of allowing the long ball. 18 PC-14 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Michael Gonzalez (L)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Sunday allowing one hit while striking out one batter. Gonzalez has now pitched three of the last five days, so there is a chance he will be given a day off on Monday when the Brewers open up a series with the Pirates. 15 PC-11 ST (4/28/13)New York Mets(CL) Shaky Bobby Parnell (R)âCollected his third save of the season Wednesday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning. Parnell threw just seven pitches in the appearance forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out while striking out one batter to nail down the victory for the Mets. 7 PC-6 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Brandon Lyon (R)âWas charged with a blown-save Tuesday night after failing to record an out in the ninth inning. The Marlins walked away with the victory in this contest after Lyon thew a wild pitch, and will likely be given the day off Wednesday after pitching three straight days. 11 PC-3 ST (4/30/13)
(MR) LaTroy Hawkins (R)--Picked up his third hold of the season Wednesday after recording the first two outs of the eighth inning. Hawkins allowed one base runner in the appearance, but was able to forcing two ground ball outs to do his part in the Mets victory in this contest. 13 PC-9 ST (5/1/13)
Injuredâ Frank Francisco (Elbow)Philadelphia Phillies(CL) Elite Jonathan Papelbon (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Sunday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Papelbon forced three fly ball outs on nine pitches thrown in his first appearance since April 22. 9 PC-6 ST (4/28/13)
(SU) Mike Adams (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning Sunday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Adam forced one ground ball out and two fly ball outs to work a perfect eighth inning, rebounding nicely from a tough outing on Wednesday. 15 PC-11 ST (4/28/13)
(MR) Antonio Bastardo (L)âEarned his third hold of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless seventh inning allowing one hit on 15 pitches thrown. With this appearance Bastardo lowered his earned-run average to 0.96 on the season, which is the best among Phillies relievers. 15 PC-9 ST (4/28/13)Pittsburgh Pirates(CL) Elite Jason Grilli (R)âRecorded his 11th save of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit. Grilli is the first closer to reach 11 saves, and has yet to be charged with a blown save this season, making him one of the best values at his position. 19 PC-15 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Mark Melancon (R)âEarned his 10th hold of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one hit while striking out one batter. Melancon forced one ground ball out and one fly ball out to go along with his strikeout to keep the Pirates on top before appsing the ball to closer Jason Grilli. 16 PC-9 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Jared Hughes (R)âRecorded the final two outs of the eighth inning after Tony Watson allowed three runs in the inning. Hughes was able to clean up his mess, forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out to get out of the inning. 17 PC-10 ST (4/30/13)San Diego Padres(CL) Solid Huston Street (R)âRecorded his fifth save of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit while striking out one batter. Street has now pitched three straight days, so don't expect to see him take the mound on Monday when the Padres take on the Cubs.
(SU) Luke Gregerson (R)âEarned his fifth hold of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one walk on 18 pitches thrown. Like his teammate Huston Street, Gregerson has now pitched three consecutive days, so he will likely be unavailable to pitch on Monday. 18 PC-9 ST (4/28/13)
(MR) Dale Thayer (R)âPicked up his fourth hold of the season Tuesday night despite allowing a solo-home run to David DeJesus in the seventh inning. The Padres had a huge lead before handing the ball over to Thayer, so the one run wasn't much of a factor in this contest. 16 PC-10 ST (4/30/13)San Francisco Giants(CL) Elite Sergio Romo (R)âRecorded his 11th save of the season Wednesday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit while striking out one batter. This appearance marked the third straight day in which Romo was used, but since the Giants have a day off on Thursday, he should be available Friday when the Giants take on the Dodgers. 17 PC-11 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Santiago Casilla (R)â Earned his fifth hold of the season Wednesday after striking out the only batter he faced in the eighth inning. Casilla has now pitched three straight days, so a scheduled day off on Thursday will be just what he and the rest of the Giants bullpen will need before opening a series with the Dodgers. 6 PC-4 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Javier Lopez (L)â Recorded only one out in his appearance on Wednesday allowing one run on two hits in the sixth inning. Lopez has been far from great this season, but as the Giants primary left-handed reliever, he is going to have to figure it all out or else he could be looking for a new job. 10 PC-5 ST (5/1/13)
St. Louis Cardinals
(CL) Shaky Edward Mujica (R)âEarned his sixth save of the season Wednesday despite allowing a solo-home run to Brandon Phillips in the ninth inning. Mujica has now pitched back-to-back days, but with low pitch counts in both contests, there is a chance the Cardinals may turn to him again if a save situation arises on Thursday. 12 PC-10 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Trevor Rosenthal (R)--Collected his seventh hold of the season Wednesday after pitching a 1-2-3 eighth inning needing only seven pitches to get the job  done. With Edward Mujica pitching back-to-back days, there is a chance that Rosenthal will be used in the closer role on Thursday if one arises. 7 PC-6 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Mitchell Boggs (R)âPitched 0.2 innings of relief on Sunday surrendering three runs on two hits and one walk. The game was already out of reach prior to his entry into the game, but this is still a terrible thing to see, considering just two weeks ago he was the team's closer. 23 PC-16 ST (4/28/13)
Injuredâ Jason Motte (Elbow)Washington Nationals(CL) Elite Rafael Soriano (R)âCollected his eighth save of the season Wednesday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning. Soriano struck out one batter in the appearance while forcing two ground ball outs, and has looked great in his three appearances since returning from leave. 17 PC-11 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Drew Storen (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning Monday night retiring all three batters he faced in order. With Rafael Soriano back with the team, Storen's fantasy value will only be in holds leagues, where he had mixed results this season, with four holds and a 5.23 earned-run average. 9 PC-7 ST (4/29/13)
(SU) Tyler Clippard (R)âTook the loss Monday night after allowing one run on one hit and one walk in the seventh inning. Clippard entered in a 2-2 tied game, and failed to extend the game, after Stephen Strasburg exited in the sixth inning. 19 PC-10 ST (4/29/13)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) Shaky J.J. Putz (R)âTook the loss on Tuesday night after blowing his fourth save of the season after allowing a game-winning home run to Pablo Sandoval in the ninth inning. Putz has been far from consistent this season, and with both David Hernandez and Heath Bell lurking, his days as the team's closer could be numbered if he continues down this road. 13 PC-9 ST (4/30/13)
(SU) David Hernandez (R)âTook the loss and was charged with his third blown-save of the year Wednesday after surrendering three runs on one hit and two walks in the eighth inning. There was some speculation that the Diamondbacks might possibly move Hernandez to the closer role with the recent struggles of J.J. Putz, but outing like this will likely make the team reconsider. 31 PC-16 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Heath Bell (R)âRecorded only the first two outs of the ninth inning Wednesday allowing two runs on on hit and two walks. With the recent struggles of J.J. Putz, there is a chance Bell could find himself in the ninth inning role in the upcoming weeks, but outing like this surely don't help his cause. 23 PC-12 ST (5/1/13)
Atlanta Braves
(CL) Elite Craig Kimbrel (R)âRecorded his ninth save of the season Monday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out one batter. This was Kimbrel's first outing since recording his first blown-save last Wednesday, so it appears the rough outing did not effect him and he is right back on track. 10 PC-7 ST (4/29/13)
(SU) Eric OâFlaherty (R)âPicked up his eighth hold of the season Monday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. O'Flaherty needed 13 pitches to work through the appearance forcing one ground ball out while striking out tow batters to get the job done. 13 PC-8 ST (4/29/13)
(MR) Jordan Walden (R)âEarned a win Monday night after pitching 1.2 innings of scoreless relief. Walden faced the minimum amount of batters, forcing one ground ball out, one fly ball out and striking out three batters to be factored into his first decision of the season. 23 PC-15 ST (4/29/13)
Injuredâ Jonny Venters (Elbow)
Chicago Cubs
(CL) Shaky Kevin Gregg (R)--Collected his fourth save of the season Monday night after retiring the final four batters of the game in order. Gregg is now 4-for-4 in save chances this season, and at this point, he should be considered the team's closer until Kyuji Fujikawa returns from injury. 16 PC-12 ST (4/29/13)
(SU) Carlos Marmol (R)âEarned his second hold of the season Saturday after recording the final out of the eighth inning. In a strange turn of events, Kevin Gregg, not Marmol, was used in the ninth inning, so Gregg has now emerged as a contender in the Cubs closer committee. 6 PC-1 ST (4/27/13)
(MR) Shawn Camp (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Tuesday night in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. With the emergence of Kevin Gregg, Camp has little to no fantasy value outside of holds leagues, unless both Gregg and Carlos Marmol fail to hold onto the job. 18 PC-12 ST (4/30/13)
InjuredâKyuji Fujikawa (Forearm)Cincinnati Reds(CL) Elite Aroldis Chapman (L)âRecorded his sixth save of the season Monday night after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning. Chapman has now pitched back-to-back days, but considering his low pitch counts, he should be able to pitch on Tuesday if the club needs him to do so. 13 PC-10 ST (4/29/13)
(SU) Jonathan Broxton (R)âEarned his third hold of the season Monday night despite allowing one run on two hits in the eighth inning. Broxton has pitched poorly as of late, and now pitching back-to-back days, he should get a day off to clear his head. 13 PC-10 ST (4/29/13)
(MR) Sean Marshall (L)--Earned his second hold of the season Sunday after retiring the final two batters of the seventh inning. Marshall has now pitched each of the last two days since returning from the disabled list, so don't expect him to be used on Monday when the Reds take on the Cardinals. 12 PC-9 ST (4/28/13)Colorado Rockies(CL) Solid Rafael Betancourt (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Wednesday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Despite a big lead, the Rockies decided to go with Betancourt to seal the victory considering he hadn't pitched in a game since last Friday, so this was just a scheduled tune up. 21 PC-15 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Rex Brothers (L)âPitched a 1-2-3 eighth inning Wednesday night striking out two batters while forcing one ground ball out on 18 pitches thrown. Brothers has now pitched back-to-back days, but with a scheduled day off on Thursday, expect him to get ready to go on Friday. 18 PC-13 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Wilton Lopez (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Monday night in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Lopez looked sharp in this non-critical outing, but has struggled in meaningful appearances this season, so maybe this role is better suited for him. 11 PC-7 ST (4/29/13)Los Angeles Dodgers(CL) Shaky Brandon League (R)âEarned his eighth save of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. League was able to put his recent struggles behind him, forcing two ground ball outs and one fly ball out to get the job done. 8 PC-6 ST (4/28/13)
(SU) Kenley Jansen (R)âFailed to record an out in his appearance on Wednesday night, allowing two runs on two hits in the seventh inning. This appearance was unlike Jansen's normal outings, so hopefully the Dodgers scheduled day off on Thursday will help him clear his head and get back on track. 14 PC-10 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Ronald Belisario (R)âPitched 0.2 innings of relief on Wednesday allowing one hit and one walk while striking out one batter. After Kenley Jansen failed to record an out in the appearance, Belisario was called upon to get out of the inning, which he did, just not in normal fashion. 11 PC-6 ST (5/1/13)Miami Marlins(CL) Shaky Steve Cishek (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Monday night in a non-save situation allowing one hit and one walk while striking out one batter. Cishek has now pitched back-to-back days, and may get a day off on Tuesday, so fantasy owners should keep there eye out for the Marlins closer in the news. 17 PC-8 ST (4/29/13)
(SU) Mike Dunn (L)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Wednesday in a non-save situation allowing one hit and one walk while striking out one batter. Dunn was able to work out of the jam, to keep the Mets lead at one run, but it didn't matter considering the Marlins ended up losing the game anyway. 17 PC-9 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Jon Rauch (R)âEarned the win in Monday's game against the Mets after pitching three innings of relief. Rauch threw 60 pitches in the appearance, so there is a good chance he will be sidelined for a few days considering his pitch count. 60 PC-37 ST (4/29/13)Milwaukee Brewers(CL) Solid Jim Henderson (R)âPitched a 1-2-3 ninth inning on Tuesday night in a non-save situation needing only 13 pitches to get the job done. The Brewers had a comfortable four-run lead in the contest, so the team used Henderson to make sure that lead did not slip away, considering he hadn't pitched since Saturday. 13 PC-9 ST (4/30/13)
(SU) John Axford (R)âTook the loss and was charged with a blown-save Wednesday after allowing four runs (three earned) on four hits in the eighth inning. He failed to get through the inning, after allowing a two-run shot to Starling Marte, as his struggled continue in terms of allowing the long ball. 18 PC-14 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Michael Gonzalez (L)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Sunday allowing one hit while striking out one batter. Gonzalez has now pitched three of the last five days, so there is a chance he will be given a day off on Monday when the Brewers open up a series with the Pirates. 15 PC-11 ST (4/28/13)New York Mets(CL) Shaky Bobby Parnell (R)âCollected his third save of the season Wednesday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning. Parnell threw just seven pitches in the appearance forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out while striking out one batter to nail down the victory for the Mets. 7 PC-6 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Brandon Lyon (R)âWas charged with a blown-save Tuesday night after failing to record an out in the ninth inning. The Marlins walked away with the victory in this contest after Lyon thew a wild pitch, and will likely be given the day off Wednesday after pitching three straight days. 11 PC-3 ST (4/30/13)
(MR) LaTroy Hawkins (R)--Picked up his third hold of the season Wednesday after recording the first two outs of the eighth inning. Hawkins allowed one base runner in the appearance, but was able to forcing two ground ball outs to do his part in the Mets victory in this contest. 13 PC-9 ST (5/1/13)
Injuredâ Frank Francisco (Elbow)Philadelphia Phillies(CL) Elite Jonathan Papelbon (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Sunday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Papelbon forced three fly ball outs on nine pitches thrown in his first appearance since April 22. 9 PC-6 ST (4/28/13)
(SU) Mike Adams (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning Sunday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Adam forced one ground ball out and two fly ball outs to work a perfect eighth inning, rebounding nicely from a tough outing on Wednesday. 15 PC-11 ST (4/28/13)
(MR) Antonio Bastardo (L)âEarned his third hold of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless seventh inning allowing one hit on 15 pitches thrown. With this appearance Bastardo lowered his earned-run average to 0.96 on the season, which is the best among Phillies relievers. 15 PC-9 ST (4/28/13)Pittsburgh Pirates(CL) Elite Jason Grilli (R)âRecorded his 11th save of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit. Grilli is the first closer to reach 11 saves, and has yet to be charged with a blown save this season, making him one of the best values at his position. 19 PC-15 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Mark Melancon (R)âEarned his 10th hold of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one hit while striking out one batter. Melancon forced one ground ball out and one fly ball out to go along with his strikeout to keep the Pirates on top before appsing the ball to closer Jason Grilli. 16 PC-9 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Jared Hughes (R)âRecorded the final two outs of the eighth inning after Tony Watson allowed three runs in the inning. Hughes was able to clean up his mess, forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out to get out of the inning. 17 PC-10 ST (4/30/13)San Diego Padres(CL) Solid Huston Street (R)âRecorded his fifth save of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit while striking out one batter. Street has now pitched three straight days, so don't expect to see him take the mound on Monday when the Padres take on the Cubs.
(SU) Luke Gregerson (R)âEarned his fifth hold of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one walk on 18 pitches thrown. Like his teammate Huston Street, Gregerson has now pitched three consecutive days, so he will likely be unavailable to pitch on Monday. 18 PC-9 ST (4/28/13)
(MR) Dale Thayer (R)âPicked up his fourth hold of the season Tuesday night despite allowing a solo-home run to David DeJesus in the seventh inning. The Padres had a huge lead before handing the ball over to Thayer, so the one run wasn't much of a factor in this contest. 16 PC-10 ST (4/30/13)San Francisco Giants(CL) Elite Sergio Romo (R)âRecorded his 11th save of the season Wednesday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit while striking out one batter. This appearance marked the third straight day in which Romo was used, but since the Giants have a day off on Thursday, he should be available Friday when the Giants take on the Dodgers. 17 PC-11 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Santiago Casilla (R)â Earned his fifth hold of the season Wednesday after striking out the only batter he faced in the eighth inning. Casilla has now pitched three straight days, so a scheduled day off on Thursday will be just what he and the rest of the Giants bullpen will need before opening a series with the Dodgers. 6 PC-4 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Javier Lopez (L)â Recorded only one out in his appearance on Wednesday allowing one run on two hits in the sixth inning. Lopez has been far from great this season, but as the Giants primary left-handed reliever, he is going to have to figure it all out or else he could be looking for a new job. 10 PC-5 ST (5/1/13)
St. Louis Cardinals
(CL) Shaky Edward Mujica (R)âEarned his sixth save of the season Wednesday despite allowing a solo-home run to Brandon Phillips in the ninth inning. Mujica has now pitched back-to-back days, but with low pitch counts in both contests, there is a chance the Cardinals may turn to him again if a save situation arises on Thursday. 12 PC-10 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Trevor Rosenthal (R)--Collected his seventh hold of the season Wednesday after pitching a 1-2-3 eighth inning needing only seven pitches to get the job  done. With Edward Mujica pitching back-to-back days, there is a chance that Rosenthal will be used in the closer role on Thursday if one arises. 7 PC-6 ST (5/1/13)
(MR) Mitchell Boggs (R)âPitched 0.2 innings of relief on Sunday surrendering three runs on two hits and one walk. The game was already out of reach prior to his entry into the game, but this is still a terrible thing to see, considering just two weeks ago he was the team's closer. 23 PC-16 ST (4/28/13)
Injuredâ Jason Motte (Elbow)Washington Nationals(CL) Elite Rafael Soriano (R)âCollected his eighth save of the season Wednesday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning. Soriano struck out one batter in the appearance while forcing two ground ball outs, and has looked great in his three appearances since returning from leave. 17 PC-11 ST (5/1/13)
(SU) Drew Storen (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning Monday night retiring all three batters he faced in order. With Rafael Soriano back with the team, Storen's fantasy value will only be in holds leagues, where he had mixed results this season, with four holds and a 5.23 earned-run average. 9 PC-7 ST (4/29/13)
(SU) Tyler Clippard (R)âTook the loss Monday night after allowing one run on one hit and one walk in the seventh inning. Clippard entered in a 2-2 tied game, and failed to extend the game, after Stephen Strasburg exited in the sixth inning. 19 PC-10 ST (4/29/13)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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