Fantasy Baseball: MLB Daily Bullpen Usage and Depth Chart 5/20
Published: May 20, 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)âTook the loss and was charged with his second blown-save of the season Saturday after allowing five runs on three hits and two walks in the ninth inning. He recorded just one out in the appearance, throwing 32 pitches, and has now allowed seven earned-runs over his last two outings. 32 PC-15 ST (5/18/13)
(SU) Darren OâDay (R)âRecorded the final two outs of the ninth inning on Saturday after Jim Johnson let the game slip out of his hands. O'Day cleaned up the mess for the most part, but did allow one run on two hits and two walks, but the game was already out of reach at the point of his arrival. 17 PC-5 ST (5/18/13)
(MR) Pedro Strop (R)âRecorded the final two outs of the ninth inning Sunday in a non-save situation allowing one walk while striking out one batter. If Jim Johnson can't right the ship, Strop could be in line to see some save chances down the road, so in deep mixed leagues he should be added to your watch list. 12 PC-6 ST (5/19/13)
Boston Red Sox
(CL) Shaky  Junichi Tazawa (R)--Pitched a scoreless ninth inning Sunday in a non-save situation allowing two hits while striking out two batters. With Andrew Bailey starting his rehab assignment, Tazawa's fantasy value is going to be short-lived, but he has the chance to lock down some saves in the mean time. 16 PC-12 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Koji Uehara (R)âEarned his ninth hold of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning. Uehara loaded the bases in this contest, but struck out three batters to get out of the jam, needing 23 pitches to get the job done. 23 PC-14 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Andrew Miller (L)--Picked up his fourth hold of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless seventh inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. Miller added to his strikeout total in this contest, and is now sitting on 24 strikeouts through his first 14.0 innings of work. 10 PC-8 ST (5/19/13)
Injured-- Andrew Bailey (Biceps), Joel Hanrahan (Forearm)Chicago White Sox(CL) Solid Addison Reed (R)âRecorded his 14th save of the season Friday night after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning needing only 11 pitches to get the job done. Reed has now pitched consecutive days, and three of last for days, so there is a good chance he will get the day off on Saturday to keep his arm rested up for the long haul. 11 pC-7 ST (5/17/13)
(SU) Matt Thornton (L)âEarned his 10th hold of the season Wednesday after pitching 1.1 innings of relief retiring all four batters he faced in order. Thornton had it going in this contest, throwing first pitch strikes to three of the four batters he faced, striking out one batter while forcing two ground ball outs and one fly ball out to help in the White Sox victory. 13 PC-10 ST
(SU) Jesse Crain (R)âPicked up his 12th hold of the season Friday night after recording the final out of the eighth inning. Crain threw just five pitches in the appearance, so even though he has pitched back-to-back days, expect him to be available if needed on Saturday afternoon. 5 PC-3 ST (5/17/13)
Cleveland Indians
(CL) Solid Chris Perez (R)âPicked up the win on Saturday despite being charged with a blown-save after allowing two home runs in the ninth inning. Although his earned-run average may tell you he is pitching well this season, he has been able to get out of a lot of jams that he has caused, but like today, there are going to be instances where he is going to get bit, especially if he keeps giving up the long ball. 14 PC-10 ST (5/18/13)
(SU) Vinny Pestano (R)--Collected a win Friday night after pitching a scoreless 1oth inning allowing one walk while striking out one batter. Pestano was activated from the disabled list prior to Friday night's game, and appears to be back to his old ways, considering the way he pitched in this contest. 17 PC-12 ST (5/17/13)
(MR) Joe Smith (R)--Pitched 1.1 innings of relief on Sunday allowing one hit and one walk while striking out one batter on 20 pitches thrown. The Indians had a big lead in this one, so this outing was as easy as it could get for Smith, who was able to lock down the win for the Indians. 20 PC-12 ST (5/19/13)
Detroit Tigers
(CL) Solid Jose Valverde (R)âRecorded his fourth save of the season Friday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one walk on 15 pitches thrown. Valverde blew his first save of the season last Sunday, but since then has pitching two great outings, so any worries fantasy owners may have should be put to rest. 15 PC-9 ST (5/17/13)
(SU) Joaquin Benoit (R)âEarned his sixth hold of the season Friday night after pitching a scoreless eighth inning. Benoit made it interesting by allowing two hits, but worked through the jam forcing two ground ball outs and one fly ball out to pass the ball to Jose Valverde to lock down the victory for the Tigers. 7 PC-6 ST (5/17/13)
(MR) Phil Coke (L)--Pitched 0.2 innings of relief on Sunday allowing two runs on two hits, failing to get out of the seventh inning. Cook has now pitched back-to-back days so the scheduled day off on Monday will give him time to forget that he has allowed three runs in his last three appearances. 16 PC-14 ST (5/19/13)
Injuredâ Octavio Dotel (Shoulder)
Houston Astros
(CL) Shaky Jose Veras (R)âEarned his sixth save of the season Saturday after pitching a scoreless 11th inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. After a shaky start to the season, Veras has started to settled down, and has turned himself into a decent closer despite the lack of save opportunities. 12 PC-7 ST (5/18/13)
(SU) Wesley Wright (L)âFailed to record an out in his appearance on Saturday allowing the only batter he faced to get on base. Wright has now pitched back-to-back days, but considering he had low pitch counts in both games, he should be able to pitch on Sunday if needed. 2 PC-1 ST (5/18/13)
(MR) Hector Ambriz (R)--Pitched a scoreless eighth inning on Sunday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Ambriz struck out two batters while forcing one fly ball out on 14 pitches thrown, and has now put together two straight solid outings. 14 PC-8 ST (5/19/13)
InjuredâJosh Fields  (Forearm)
Kansas City Royals
(CL) Solid Greg Holland (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Wednesday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Holland has put to rest any questions about him losing his job, so those who are still thinking Kelvin Herrera is going to take the job at some point h this season, should think again. 15 PC-11 ST (5/15/13)
(SU) Kelvin Herrera (R)âTook the loss on Sunday after allowing the game-winning home run in the eighth inning. Herrera has has been a major disappointment this season, and it appears like the Royals are ready to take him out of the setup role, so he is now worth dropping in holds leagues. 11 PC-6 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Aaron Crow (R)âEarned his seventh hold of the season on Wednesday night after recording the final out of the sixth inning. Crow walked one batter in the appearance, but then forced the next batter to ground out to get out of the jam. 9 PC-3 ST (5/15/13)
Los Angeles Angels
(CL) Solid Ernesto Frieri (R)âRecorded his ninth save of the season Sunday despite allowing one run on three walks in 1.1 innings of work. Frieri has now recorded four-out saves in back-to-back games, as he continues to be used extensively out of the Angels bullpen. 27 PC-13 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Scott Downs (L)âEarned his ninth hold of the season Sunday after striking out the only batter he faced in the eighth inning. Downs threw just six pitches in the appearance, which was his first outing since last Thursday, so expect to see him used a lot over the next few days. 6 PC-3 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Mark Lowe (R)--Pitched one inning of relief on Wednesday allowing four runs on four hits and one walk. This was a terrible showing form Lowe, who has just a handful of appearances this season, so hopefully he will be able to forget about this one quick before his next appearance. 36 PC-19 ST (5/15/13)
Injured:  Ryan Madson (Elbow), Sean Burnett  (Forearm)Minnesota Twins(CL) Solid Glen Perkins (L)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Friday night in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Perkins entered in a tied ballgame and struck out two batters while forcing one ground ball out, but in the end the Twins blew the game, which would have been a win for Perkins had the found a way to score some runs int he 10th inning. 18 PC-12 ST (5/17/13)
(SU) Jared Burton (R)âWas used in the ninth inning on Sunday in a non-save situation allowing two runs on two hits and two walks while striking out one batter. Burton needed 34 pitches to get out of the inning, and may be unavailable to pitch on Monday due to the high pitch count. 34 PC-21 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Casey Fien (R)--Pitched one inning of relief on Saturday allowing one run on one hit while striking out one batter. Fien has now pitched back-to-back days, so don't expect to see him take the mound on Sunday. 18 PC-11 ST (5/18/13)New York Yankees(CL) Elite Mariano Rivera (R)âRecorded his 16th save of the season Tuesday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. With this appearance Rivera is now 16-for-16 in save opportunities this season, as he continues to dominate on his farewell tour. 11 PC-7 ST (5/14/13)
(SU) David Robertson (R)âWas used to pitch the eighth inning Saturday afternoon allowing one run on two hits while striking out one batter. The run allowed came via an Edwin Encarnacion home run, but luckily for Robertson there was no one on base, so the game remained out of reach.  17 PC-13 ST (5/18/13)
(MR) Boone Logan (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Saturday afternoon in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Logan has now strung together five straight scoreless relief appearances and appears to be aback on track after a shaky start to the season. 12 PC-8 ST (5/18/13)Oakland Athletics(CL) Solid Grant Balfour (R)âEarned his eighth save of the season Saturday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one walk on 14 pitches thrown. Balfour has now pitched back-to-back days, so there is a chance he will not be available to pitch on Sunday, so fantasy owners should plan accordingly. 14 PC-5 ST (5/18/13)
(SU) Ryan Cook (R)âRecorded his first save of the season Sunday with Gran Balfour unavailable, allowing two hits while striking out one batter. Cook got himself into some trouble, but was able to secure the one-run lead, which should earn him another chance like this if the situation arises. 21 PC-15 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Sean Doolittle (L)âPicked up his seventh hold of the season Saturday night after pitching a 1-2-3 eighth inning. Doolittle has now pitched back-t0-back days, so there is a chance he will be unavailable out of the Athletics bullpen on Sunday, leaving Ryan Cook the best option to close out the game if needed. 9 PC-9 ST (5/18/13)Seattle Mariners(CL) Solid Tom Wilhelmsen (R)âRecorded his 11th save of the season Thursday after pitching yet another scoreless ninth inning. Wilhelmsen has now pitched back-to-back days and may be unavailable to pitch on Friday, so fantasy owners will need to plan accordingly. 23 PC-13 ST (5/16/13)
(SU) Carter Capps (R)âPitched 1.2 innings of relief on Saturday retiring all five batters he faced in order. Capps needed 31 pitches to get through the appearance, and has now pitched consecutive days, so he will likely be unavailable to pitch on Saturday. 31 PC-21 ST (5/17/13)
(MR) Charlie Furbush (L)âPitched two innings of relief on Sunday retiring all six batters he faced in order. Furbush pitched great in this one, striking out three batters while forcing one ground ball out and two fly ball outs on 21 pitches, although it was in a losing effort. 21 PC-17 ST (5/19/13)InjuredâStephen Pryor (back)Tampa Bay Rays(CL) Solid Fernando Rodney (R)âCollected his eighth save of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. After a terrible performance on Thursday, Rodney bounced back nicely in this contest, but anyone who owns him should temper the expectations moving forward after a shaky start to the season. 10 PC-6 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Joel Peralta (R)âEarned his 11th hold of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. With this appearance Peralta is now sporting a 1.74 ERA, which makes him the best option in the Rays bullpen thus far in 2013. 10 PC-7 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Jake McGee (L)âPicked up his eighth hold of the season Thursday night after recording the final two outs of the seventh inning. He needed 13 pitches to get through the appearance forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out ans has now put together three straight solid relief appearances. 13 PC-8 ST (5/16/13)
Texas Rangers
(CL) Elite Joe Nathan (R)âRecorded his 13th save of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one walk while striking out one batter on 17 pitches thrown. Nathan has now pitched back-to-back days, but has low pitch counts in both games, so he should be available Monday if a save situation arises. 17 PC-12 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Tanner Scheppers (R)âPitched one inning of relief on Sunday night allowing one run on one hit and one walk. Scheppers allowed a home run to Miguel Cabrera in the eighth inning, which was his first allowed this season, and has now pitched back-to-back days, so a day off may be in store for him on Monday. 17 PC-9 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Jason Frasor (R)âEarned his first hold of the season Sunday despite allowing one run on one walk in the sixth inning. Frasor threw just 10 pitches in the appearance, so expect hi to be available out of the bullpen on Monday. 10 PC-4 ST (5/19/13)
Injuredâ Joakim Soria (Elbow)Toronto Blue Jays(CL) Solid Casey Janssen (R)âCollected his 10th save of the season Saturday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit on 10 pitches thrown. Wit this appearance Janssen is 10-for-10 in save chances this season, and even with Sergio Santos on his way back, he should not have to worry about losing the closer role. 10 PC-7 ST (5/11/13)
(SU) Steve Delabar (R)âPitched a scoreless seventh inning on Saturday retiring all three batters he faced in order. This appearance was his first outing in seven days, so expect him to be available for Sunday's series finale if needed. 16 PC-11 ST (5/18/13)
(MR) Esmil Rogers (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning Friday night allowing one hit while striking out two batters. Rogers has been very inconsistent this season, but outings like this show why the team has kept him around despite the early season struggles in the month of April. 23 PC-15 ST (5/17/13)
Injuredâ Sergio Santos (Triceps)Continue to Page 2 to view the National League Bullpen Report...
National League Bullpen ReportArizona Diamondbacks(CL) Shaky Heath Bell (R)âCollected his sixth save of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit while striking out one batter. After a blown-save on Sunday, Bell has now recorded saves in back-to-back games, so any doubt that he would be out as the teams closer should now be silenced. 15 PC-11 ST (5/15/13)
(SU) David Hernandez (R)âEarned his eighth hold of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one hit while striking out one batter. With Bell rolling in the ninth inning, it is tough to say Hernandez will get save chances down the road, but he is worth stashing considering Bell's track record. 14 PC-11 ST (5/15/13)
(MR) Matt Reynolds (L)--Collected his fourth hold of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless sixth inning allowing two hits while striking out one batter. Reynolds allowed his first runs of the season in Sunday's outing, but got right back on track in this one, as it doesn't look there are any lingering effects from his last showing. 18 PC-11 ST (5/15/13)
Injured: J.J. Putz (Elbow)
Atlanta Braves
(CL) Elite Craig Kimbrel (R)âRecorded his 14th save of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit while striking out three batters. Kimbrel has now pitched three consecutive days, so expect the Braves to give him the day off on Monday, considering they need to keep him fresh will all the injuries to their bullpen. 18 PC-13 ST (5/19/13)
(SU)  Cory Gearrin (R)--Picked up the win on Saturday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. With the recent injuries to both Jordan Walden and Eric O'Flaherty, Gearrin now has a chance to gain fantasy value in holds leagues, so keep an eye on his progression. 9 PC-5 ST (5/18/13)
(MR)  Luis Avilan (L)--Pitched up the win on Sunday after pitching a 1-2-3 eighth inning striking out one batter on 14 pitches. With the injuries to both Jordan Walden and Eric O'Flaherty, Avilan will see an increase in production, and in deep mixed leagues, he could be a solid add for those looking for help in the holds category. 14 PC-11 ST (5/19/13)
Injuredâ Jonny Venters (Elbow), Jordan Walden (Shoulder), Eric OâFlaherty (Elbow)
Chicago Cubs
(CL) Shaky Kevin Gregg (R)--Recorded the final two out of the ninth inning Wednesday night allowing one run (unearned) on two hits. The run allowed was scored after an error allowed a base runner, so Gregg's scoreless innings streak may be over, but has still yet to allow an earned-run. 17 PC-10 ST (5/15/13)
(SU) Kyuji Fujikawa (R)--Took the loss on Sunday after allowing one run on one hit while striking out two batters in the eighth inning. With this appearance Fujikawa falls to 1-1 on the season, and has yet to give any reason why he should be moved back in to the closer role. 22 PC-15 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Carlos Marmol (R)--Pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Sunday in a non-save situation allowing one hit while striking out two batters on 11 pitches thrown. This was Marmol's first appearance since last Monday, so expect to see a heavy dose of him over the net few days. 11 PC-9 ST (5/19/13)Cincinnati Reds(CL) Elite Aroldis Chapman (L)âTook the loss and was charged with his second blown-save of the season Sunday after surrendering back-to-back home runs in the bottom of the ninth inning. Chapman has shown signs of weakness over his last 10 appearances, allowing six runs over that span, so maybe hitters are starting to figure him out, or have just gotten lucky lately. 14 PC-6 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Jonathan Broxton (R)âPicked up his sixth hold of the season Sunday despite allowing one run on one hit and one walk in the eighth inning. Broxton failed to get out of the frame, but a least he left without giving up the lead. 19 PC-12 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Sean Marshall (L)--Earned his sixth hold of the season Sunday after recording the final out of the eighth inning. Marshall threw just two pitches in the appearance, both for strikes, and was able to get out of a jam in the appearance, although it didn't matter due to Chapman's meltdown in the ninth inning. 2 PC-2 ST (5/19/13)Colorado Rockies(CL) Solid Rafael Betancourt (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Sunday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Betancourt has just five saves over the last month of the season, but at least he as been able to continue his hot start in his non-save appearances. 11 PC-8 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Rex Brothers (L)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning Sunday allowing two hits on 14 pitches thrown. Brothers got himself into some trouble but showed some resilience to keep his scoreless innings streak intact. 14 PC-9 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Wilton Lopez (R)âPitched 1.1 innings of relief on Saturday night retiring all four batters he faced in order. Lopez has looked sharp inn his previous three outings, so maybe he has turn the corner from the shaky start to his first season with the Rockies. 12 PC-10 ST (5/18/13)Los Angeles Dodgers(CL) Shaky Brandon League (R)âWas charged a blown-save Sunday after allowing two runs (zero earned) on two hits and one walk while striking out one batter. There were talks that Kenley Jansen would soon take over the closer role, but he has been struggling as of late, so League appears to be safe for now. 19 PC-12 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Kenley Jansen (R)âTook the loss despite picking up his ninth hold of the season Sunday after allowing two runs on one hit and one walk in the eighth inning. Jansen has now taken the loss in back-to-back games, so a day off will definitely be in store for him on Monday. 14 PC-8 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Ronald Belisario (R)âEarned his fifth hold of the season Sunday after pitching one inning of scoreless relief, allowing one walk on 15 pitches thrown. Belisario has pitched well as of late, and with Kenley Jansen pitching back-to-back days, he may be used in the setup role on Monday. 15 PC-9 ST (5/19/13)Miami Marlins(CL) Shaky Steve Cishek (R)âEarned his first hold of the season Sunday after allowing one hit and one walk in the ninth inning. Cishek was pulled after allowing the two base runners, with Mike Dunn replacing him and earning his first save of the season, so maybe the team is starting to give up on Cishek. 14 PC-6 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Mike Dunn (L)âPicked up his first save of the season Sunday after recording the final out of the ninth inning in relief on Steve Cishek. This may be a sign that the team is starting to get frustrated with Steve Cishek, so in deep leagues, it may be time to start stashing Dunn. 13 PC-6 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) A.J. Ramos (R)--Was used to record the final out of the 10th inning on Thursday night, forcing the only batter he faced to ground out on five pitches. With Steve Cishek throwing 31 pitches on Thursday, there is a chance he will be unavailable to pitch on Friday, with Mike Dunn or Ramos being the likely candidates to fill in for Cishek if that is the case. 5 PC-3 ST (5/16/13)Milwaukee Brewers(CL) Solid Jim Henderson (R)âCollected his eighth save of the season Saturday after pitching a 1-2-3 10th inning. With all the pitcher in the Brewers bullpen being use heavily as of late, expect to see Henderson used on Sunday no matter the situation, after throwing only 10 pitches in his first appearance since Tuesday. 10 PC-6 ST (5/18/13)
(MR) John Axford (R)âPicked up the win on Saturday after pitching 1.1 innings of scoreless relief, allowing one hit and two walks while striking out three batters. Axford needed 33 pitches to get out of the jam, and has now pitched back-to-back days, so don't expect to see him take the mound on Sunday. 33 PC-13 ST (5/18/13)
(MR) Michael Gonzalez (L)âFailed to record an out in his appearance on Saturday allowing a hit to the only batter he faced in the sixth inning. Gonzalez has now pitched back-to-back days, but considering his low pitch counts, he should be able to pitch Sunday if needed. 5 PC-3 ST (5/18/13)New York Mets(CL) Shaky Bobby Parnell (R)âEarned his sixth save of the season on Sunday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out two batters on 14 pitches thrown. With the latest news on Frank Francisco's setback, Parnell's fantasy value will stay put for the time being, but at this point it would be hard for the Mets to take him out of the closer role considering how he has been pitching. 14 PC-9 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Brandon Lyon (R)âPicked up his fourth hold of the season Thursday after recording the final two outs of the eighth inning. He allowed one hit in the appearance, but was able to get out of the jam by forcing two ground ball outs on seven pitches. 7 PC-4 ST (5/16/13)
(MR) LaTroy Hawkins (R)--Was used in the eighth inning Wednesday night allowing one run on one hit and two walks while striking out two batters. Hawkins has now given up runs in three straight appearances dating back to last week, and will need to right the ship if he wants to stay in his current role. 27 PC-15 ST (5/15/13)
Injuredâ Frank Francisco (Elbow)Philadelphia Phillies(CL) Elite Jonathan Papelbon (R)âEarned his eighth save of the season Friday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one walk on 17 pitches thrown. Papelbon may not have the strikeout totals we had grown accustomed to seeing form him over the years, but he is still getting the job done, as a position riddled with failure, so consider yourself lucky if you drafted him this year. 17 PC-8 ST (5/17/13)
(SU) Mike Adams (R)âTook the loss Friday night after serving up the game-winning home run to Miguel Montero in the eighth inning. With this appearance Adams falls to 1-3 on the season with a 3.00 earned-run average over 15 innings of work. 11 PC-6 ST (5/10/13)
(MR) Antonio Bastardo (L)âPicked up his second win of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning in a non-save situation allowing one hit while striking out one batter. Bastardo owners got lucky in this contest, as it is not every day Aroldis Chapman allows two home runs in the same game. 10 PC-8 ST (5/19/13)Pittsburgh Pirates(CL) Elite Jason Grilli (R)âRecorded his 17th save of the season Sunday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out one batter. Grilli becomes the first closer to 17 saves, and continues to be the biggest surprise at his position and it doesn't appear like he will be slowing down anytime soon. 10 PC-8 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Mark Melancon (R)--Earned his 15th hold of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. Melancon scuffled in his previous appearance, but was able to get right back on track in this contest, and is now sporting a 0.78 ERA on the year. 13 PC-10 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Jose Contreras (R)--Pitched a scoreless ninth inning Thursday night in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Contreras looked good in this one, striking out tow batters while forcing one ground ball out to get the job done and seal the victory for the Pirates. 13 PC-8 ST (5/16/13)San Diego Padres(CL) Solid Huston Street (R)âEarned his 10th save of the season on Saturday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing two walks while striking out one batter. Street has now pitched back-to-back days, so it is likely you will see Luke Gregerson in the closer role on Sunday if one arises. 16 PC-5 ST (5/18/13)
(SU) Luke Gregerson (R)âPicked up the win on Tuesday after recording the final out of the eighth inning. Gregerson has been very effective this season, posting a 1.00 ERA and would be the first pick for the Padres to take over the closer role if something was to happen to Huston Street. 6 PC-3 ST (5/14/13)
(MR) Dale Thayer (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning Friday night retiring all three batters he faced in order. Thayer has pitched decent this season and if he continues to rack up strikeouts, he could be a solid add in deep holds leagues. 18 PC-15 ST (5/17/13)San Francisco Giants(CL) Elite Sergio Romo (R)âCollected his 13th save of the season Thursday night after striking out the only two batters he faced in the ninth inning. Romo has allowed three runs in his previous two outings, so it was nice to see him have a clean appearance as he got back on track to hold onto the lead for the Giants. 11 PC-7 ST (5/16/13)
(SU) Santiago Casilla (R)âPitched a scoreless seventh inning Friday night despite allowing one hit and two walks in the appearance. This wasn't the best showing from Casilla, but at least he escaped unharmed to keep the Giants in the ballgame. 26 PC-13 ST (5/17/13)
(MR) Javier Lopez (L)â Pitched a scoreless eighth inning Wednesday allowing one hit on 12 pitches thrown. This appearance marked the first time  in his last three outings that he pitching a full inning, and has done it just two times over his last 10 appearances, which has limited his fantasy value in holds leagues. 12 PC-7 ST (5/15/13)
St. Louis Cardinals
(CL) Solid Edward Mujica (R)âRecorded his 13th save of the season Sunday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning needing only 11 pitches to get the job done. Mujica has now pitched three consecutive days, so he will likely get the day off on Monday, so look for Fernando Salas to be used in the role if a save situation arises. 11 PC-9 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Trevor Rosenthal (R)--Earned his 13th hold of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one hit while striking out two batters. Like Edward Mujica, Rosenthal has now pitched three straight days, so expect to see Fernando Salas used in the closer role if a save situation arises on Monday. 12 PC-9 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Fernando Salas (R)--Pitched a scoreless sixth inning Saturday night retiring all three batters he faced in order. Salas bounced back nicely form a poor showing on Thursday, but is far too inconsistent to consider using in holds leagues at this point. 14 PC-10 ST (5/18/13)
Injuredâ Jason Motte (Elbow)Washington Nationals(CL) Elite Rafael Soriano (R)--Picked up the win on Friday night despite being charged with a blown-save after allowing two runs (non earned) on three hits in the ninth inning. Soriano didn't have his best stuff, but was able to limit the damage, which landed him and his fantasy owners a rare win. (5/17/13)
(SU) Drew Storen (R)âWas used in the eighth inning on Sunday allowing one run on two hits while striking out one batter. The run allowed was a solo-home run by Yonder Alonso, but the game was already completely out of reach, so it was not a major issue in this appearance. 14 PC-11 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Tyler Clippard (R)âPicked up his seventh hold of the season Friday night after pitching 1.1 innings of relief allowing one walk while striking out one batter. Clippard needed 21 pitches to get through the appearance, which was his third showing this week, so a day off on Saturday may be in store. 21 PC-13 ST (5/17/13)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.
American League Bullpen ReportBaltimore Orioles(CL) Solid Jim Johnson (R)âTook the loss and was charged with his second blown-save of the season Saturday after allowing five runs on three hits and two walks in the ninth inning. He recorded just one out in the appearance, throwing 32 pitches, and has now allowed seven earned-runs over his last two outings. 32 PC-15 ST (5/18/13)
(SU) Darren OâDay (R)âRecorded the final two outs of the ninth inning on Saturday after Jim Johnson let the game slip out of his hands. O'Day cleaned up the mess for the most part, but did allow one run on two hits and two walks, but the game was already out of reach at the point of his arrival. 17 PC-5 ST (5/18/13)
(MR) Pedro Strop (R)âRecorded the final two outs of the ninth inning Sunday in a non-save situation allowing one walk while striking out one batter. If Jim Johnson can't right the ship, Strop could be in line to see some save chances down the road, so in deep mixed leagues he should be added to your watch list. 12 PC-6 ST (5/19/13)
Boston Red Sox
(CL) Shaky  Junichi Tazawa (R)--Pitched a scoreless ninth inning Sunday in a non-save situation allowing two hits while striking out two batters. With Andrew Bailey starting his rehab assignment, Tazawa's fantasy value is going to be short-lived, but he has the chance to lock down some saves in the mean time. 16 PC-12 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Koji Uehara (R)âEarned his ninth hold of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning. Uehara loaded the bases in this contest, but struck out three batters to get out of the jam, needing 23 pitches to get the job done. 23 PC-14 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Andrew Miller (L)--Picked up his fourth hold of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless seventh inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. Miller added to his strikeout total in this contest, and is now sitting on 24 strikeouts through his first 14.0 innings of work. 10 PC-8 ST (5/19/13)
Injured-- Andrew Bailey (Biceps), Joel Hanrahan (Forearm)Chicago White Sox(CL) Solid Addison Reed (R)âRecorded his 14th save of the season Friday night after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning needing only 11 pitches to get the job done. Reed has now pitched consecutive days, and three of last for days, so there is a good chance he will get the day off on Saturday to keep his arm rested up for the long haul. 11 pC-7 ST (5/17/13)
(SU) Matt Thornton (L)âEarned his 10th hold of the season Wednesday after pitching 1.1 innings of relief retiring all four batters he faced in order. Thornton had it going in this contest, throwing first pitch strikes to three of the four batters he faced, striking out one batter while forcing two ground ball outs and one fly ball out to help in the White Sox victory. 13 PC-10 ST
(SU) Jesse Crain (R)âPicked up his 12th hold of the season Friday night after recording the final out of the eighth inning. Crain threw just five pitches in the appearance, so even though he has pitched back-to-back days, expect him to be available if needed on Saturday afternoon. 5 PC-3 ST (5/17/13)
Cleveland Indians
(CL) Solid Chris Perez (R)âPicked up the win on Saturday despite being charged with a blown-save after allowing two home runs in the ninth inning. Although his earned-run average may tell you he is pitching well this season, he has been able to get out of a lot of jams that he has caused, but like today, there are going to be instances where he is going to get bit, especially if he keeps giving up the long ball. 14 PC-10 ST (5/18/13)
(SU) Vinny Pestano (R)--Collected a win Friday night after pitching a scoreless 1oth inning allowing one walk while striking out one batter. Pestano was activated from the disabled list prior to Friday night's game, and appears to be back to his old ways, considering the way he pitched in this contest. 17 PC-12 ST (5/17/13)
(MR) Joe Smith (R)--Pitched 1.1 innings of relief on Sunday allowing one hit and one walk while striking out one batter on 20 pitches thrown. The Indians had a big lead in this one, so this outing was as easy as it could get for Smith, who was able to lock down the win for the Indians. 20 PC-12 ST (5/19/13)
Detroit Tigers
(CL) Solid Jose Valverde (R)âRecorded his fourth save of the season Friday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one walk on 15 pitches thrown. Valverde blew his first save of the season last Sunday, but since then has pitching two great outings, so any worries fantasy owners may have should be put to rest. 15 PC-9 ST (5/17/13)
(SU) Joaquin Benoit (R)âEarned his sixth hold of the season Friday night after pitching a scoreless eighth inning. Benoit made it interesting by allowing two hits, but worked through the jam forcing two ground ball outs and one fly ball out to pass the ball to Jose Valverde to lock down the victory for the Tigers. 7 PC-6 ST (5/17/13)
(MR) Phil Coke (L)--Pitched 0.2 innings of relief on Sunday allowing two runs on two hits, failing to get out of the seventh inning. Cook has now pitched back-to-back days so the scheduled day off on Monday will give him time to forget that he has allowed three runs in his last three appearances. 16 PC-14 ST (5/19/13)
Injuredâ Octavio Dotel (Shoulder)
Houston Astros
(CL) Shaky Jose Veras (R)âEarned his sixth save of the season Saturday after pitching a scoreless 11th inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. After a shaky start to the season, Veras has started to settled down, and has turned himself into a decent closer despite the lack of save opportunities. 12 PC-7 ST (5/18/13)
(SU) Wesley Wright (L)âFailed to record an out in his appearance on Saturday allowing the only batter he faced to get on base. Wright has now pitched back-to-back days, but considering he had low pitch counts in both games, he should be able to pitch on Sunday if needed. 2 PC-1 ST (5/18/13)
(MR) Hector Ambriz (R)--Pitched a scoreless eighth inning on Sunday retiring all three batters he faced in order. Ambriz struck out two batters while forcing one fly ball out on 14 pitches thrown, and has now put together two straight solid outings. 14 PC-8 ST (5/19/13)
InjuredâJosh Fields  (Forearm)
Kansas City Royals
(CL) Solid Greg Holland (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Wednesday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Holland has put to rest any questions about him losing his job, so those who are still thinking Kelvin Herrera is going to take the job at some point h this season, should think again. 15 PC-11 ST (5/15/13)
(SU) Kelvin Herrera (R)âTook the loss on Sunday after allowing the game-winning home run in the eighth inning. Herrera has has been a major disappointment this season, and it appears like the Royals are ready to take him out of the setup role, so he is now worth dropping in holds leagues. 11 PC-6 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Aaron Crow (R)âEarned his seventh hold of the season on Wednesday night after recording the final out of the sixth inning. Crow walked one batter in the appearance, but then forced the next batter to ground out to get out of the jam. 9 PC-3 ST (5/15/13)
Los Angeles Angels
(CL) Solid Ernesto Frieri (R)âRecorded his ninth save of the season Sunday despite allowing one run on three walks in 1.1 innings of work. Frieri has now recorded four-out saves in back-to-back games, as he continues to be used extensively out of the Angels bullpen. 27 PC-13 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Scott Downs (L)âEarned his ninth hold of the season Sunday after striking out the only batter he faced in the eighth inning. Downs threw just six pitches in the appearance, which was his first outing since last Thursday, so expect to see him used a lot over the next few days. 6 PC-3 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Mark Lowe (R)--Pitched one inning of relief on Wednesday allowing four runs on four hits and one walk. This was a terrible showing form Lowe, who has just a handful of appearances this season, so hopefully he will be able to forget about this one quick before his next appearance. 36 PC-19 ST (5/15/13)
Injured:  Ryan Madson (Elbow), Sean Burnett  (Forearm)Minnesota Twins(CL) Solid Glen Perkins (L)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Friday night in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Perkins entered in a tied ballgame and struck out two batters while forcing one ground ball out, but in the end the Twins blew the game, which would have been a win for Perkins had the found a way to score some runs int he 10th inning. 18 PC-12 ST (5/17/13)
(SU) Jared Burton (R)âWas used in the ninth inning on Sunday in a non-save situation allowing two runs on two hits and two walks while striking out one batter. Burton needed 34 pitches to get out of the inning, and may be unavailable to pitch on Monday due to the high pitch count. 34 PC-21 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Casey Fien (R)--Pitched one inning of relief on Saturday allowing one run on one hit while striking out one batter. Fien has now pitched back-to-back days, so don't expect to see him take the mound on Sunday. 18 PC-11 ST (5/18/13)New York Yankees(CL) Elite Mariano Rivera (R)âRecorded his 16th save of the season Tuesday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. With this appearance Rivera is now 16-for-16 in save opportunities this season, as he continues to dominate on his farewell tour. 11 PC-7 ST (5/14/13)
(SU) David Robertson (R)âWas used to pitch the eighth inning Saturday afternoon allowing one run on two hits while striking out one batter. The run allowed came via an Edwin Encarnacion home run, but luckily for Robertson there was no one on base, so the game remained out of reach.  17 PC-13 ST (5/18/13)
(MR) Boone Logan (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning Saturday afternoon in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Logan has now strung together five straight scoreless relief appearances and appears to be aback on track after a shaky start to the season. 12 PC-8 ST (5/18/13)Oakland Athletics(CL) Solid Grant Balfour (R)âEarned his eighth save of the season Saturday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one walk on 14 pitches thrown. Balfour has now pitched back-to-back days, so there is a chance he will not be available to pitch on Sunday, so fantasy owners should plan accordingly. 14 PC-5 ST (5/18/13)
(SU) Ryan Cook (R)âRecorded his first save of the season Sunday with Gran Balfour unavailable, allowing two hits while striking out one batter. Cook got himself into some trouble, but was able to secure the one-run lead, which should earn him another chance like this if the situation arises. 21 PC-15 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Sean Doolittle (L)âPicked up his seventh hold of the season Saturday night after pitching a 1-2-3 eighth inning. Doolittle has now pitched back-t0-back days, so there is a chance he will be unavailable out of the Athletics bullpen on Sunday, leaving Ryan Cook the best option to close out the game if needed. 9 PC-9 ST (5/18/13)Seattle Mariners(CL) Solid Tom Wilhelmsen (R)âRecorded his 11th save of the season Thursday after pitching yet another scoreless ninth inning. Wilhelmsen has now pitched back-to-back days and may be unavailable to pitch on Friday, so fantasy owners will need to plan accordingly. 23 PC-13 ST (5/16/13)
(SU) Carter Capps (R)âPitched 1.2 innings of relief on Saturday retiring all five batters he faced in order. Capps needed 31 pitches to get through the appearance, and has now pitched consecutive days, so he will likely be unavailable to pitch on Saturday. 31 PC-21 ST (5/17/13)
(MR) Charlie Furbush (L)âPitched two innings of relief on Sunday retiring all six batters he faced in order. Furbush pitched great in this one, striking out three batters while forcing one ground ball out and two fly ball outs on 21 pitches, although it was in a losing effort. 21 PC-17 ST (5/19/13)InjuredâStephen Pryor (back)Tampa Bay Rays(CL) Solid Fernando Rodney (R)âCollected his eighth save of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. After a terrible performance on Thursday, Rodney bounced back nicely in this contest, but anyone who owns him should temper the expectations moving forward after a shaky start to the season. 10 PC-6 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Joel Peralta (R)âEarned his 11th hold of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. With this appearance Peralta is now sporting a 1.74 ERA, which makes him the best option in the Rays bullpen thus far in 2013. 10 PC-7 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Jake McGee (L)âPicked up his eighth hold of the season Thursday night after recording the final two outs of the seventh inning. He needed 13 pitches to get through the appearance forcing one ground ball out and one fly ball out ans has now put together three straight solid relief appearances. 13 PC-8 ST (5/16/13)
Texas Rangers
(CL) Elite Joe Nathan (R)âRecorded his 13th save of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one walk while striking out one batter on 17 pitches thrown. Nathan has now pitched back-to-back days, but has low pitch counts in both games, so he should be available Monday if a save situation arises. 17 PC-12 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Tanner Scheppers (R)âPitched one inning of relief on Sunday night allowing one run on one hit and one walk. Scheppers allowed a home run to Miguel Cabrera in the eighth inning, which was his first allowed this season, and has now pitched back-to-back days, so a day off may be in store for him on Monday. 17 PC-9 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Jason Frasor (R)âEarned his first hold of the season Sunday despite allowing one run on one walk in the sixth inning. Frasor threw just 10 pitches in the appearance, so expect hi to be available out of the bullpen on Monday. 10 PC-4 ST (5/19/13)
Injuredâ Joakim Soria (Elbow)Toronto Blue Jays(CL) Solid Casey Janssen (R)âCollected his 10th save of the season Saturday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit on 10 pitches thrown. Wit this appearance Janssen is 10-for-10 in save chances this season, and even with Sergio Santos on his way back, he should not have to worry about losing the closer role. 10 PC-7 ST (5/11/13)
(SU) Steve Delabar (R)âPitched a scoreless seventh inning on Saturday retiring all three batters he faced in order. This appearance was his first outing in seven days, so expect him to be available for Sunday's series finale if needed. 16 PC-11 ST (5/18/13)
(MR) Esmil Rogers (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning Friday night allowing one hit while striking out two batters. Rogers has been very inconsistent this season, but outings like this show why the team has kept him around despite the early season struggles in the month of April. 23 PC-15 ST (5/17/13)
Injuredâ Sergio Santos (Triceps)Continue to Page 2 to view the National League Bullpen Report...
National League Bullpen ReportArizona Diamondbacks(CL) Shaky Heath Bell (R)âCollected his sixth save of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit while striking out one batter. After a blown-save on Sunday, Bell has now recorded saves in back-to-back games, so any doubt that he would be out as the teams closer should now be silenced. 15 PC-11 ST (5/15/13)
(SU) David Hernandez (R)âEarned his eighth hold of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one hit while striking out one batter. With Bell rolling in the ninth inning, it is tough to say Hernandez will get save chances down the road, but he is worth stashing considering Bell's track record. 14 PC-11 ST (5/15/13)
(MR) Matt Reynolds (L)--Collected his fourth hold of the season Wednesday after pitching a scoreless sixth inning allowing two hits while striking out one batter. Reynolds allowed his first runs of the season in Sunday's outing, but got right back on track in this one, as it doesn't look there are any lingering effects from his last showing. 18 PC-11 ST (5/15/13)
Injured: J.J. Putz (Elbow)
Atlanta Braves
(CL) Elite Craig Kimbrel (R)âRecorded his 14th save of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit while striking out three batters. Kimbrel has now pitched three consecutive days, so expect the Braves to give him the day off on Monday, considering they need to keep him fresh will all the injuries to their bullpen. 18 PC-13 ST (5/19/13)
(SU)  Cory Gearrin (R)--Picked up the win on Saturday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. With the recent injuries to both Jordan Walden and Eric O'Flaherty, Gearrin now has a chance to gain fantasy value in holds leagues, so keep an eye on his progression. 9 PC-5 ST (5/18/13)
(MR)  Luis Avilan (L)--Pitched up the win on Sunday after pitching a 1-2-3 eighth inning striking out one batter on 14 pitches. With the injuries to both Jordan Walden and Eric O'Flaherty, Avilan will see an increase in production, and in deep mixed leagues, he could be a solid add for those looking for help in the holds category. 14 PC-11 ST (5/19/13)
Injuredâ Jonny Venters (Elbow), Jordan Walden (Shoulder), Eric OâFlaherty (Elbow)
Chicago Cubs
(CL) Shaky Kevin Gregg (R)--Recorded the final two out of the ninth inning Wednesday night allowing one run (unearned) on two hits. The run allowed was scored after an error allowed a base runner, so Gregg's scoreless innings streak may be over, but has still yet to allow an earned-run. 17 PC-10 ST (5/15/13)
(SU) Kyuji Fujikawa (R)--Took the loss on Sunday after allowing one run on one hit while striking out two batters in the eighth inning. With this appearance Fujikawa falls to 1-1 on the season, and has yet to give any reason why he should be moved back in to the closer role. 22 PC-15 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Carlos Marmol (R)--Pitched a scoreless ninth inning on Sunday in a non-save situation allowing one hit while striking out two batters on 11 pitches thrown. This was Marmol's first appearance since last Monday, so expect to see a heavy dose of him over the net few days. 11 PC-9 ST (5/19/13)Cincinnati Reds(CL) Elite Aroldis Chapman (L)âTook the loss and was charged with his second blown-save of the season Sunday after surrendering back-to-back home runs in the bottom of the ninth inning. Chapman has shown signs of weakness over his last 10 appearances, allowing six runs over that span, so maybe hitters are starting to figure him out, or have just gotten lucky lately. 14 PC-6 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Jonathan Broxton (R)âPicked up his sixth hold of the season Sunday despite allowing one run on one hit and one walk in the eighth inning. Broxton failed to get out of the frame, but a least he left without giving up the lead. 19 PC-12 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Sean Marshall (L)--Earned his sixth hold of the season Sunday after recording the final out of the eighth inning. Marshall threw just two pitches in the appearance, both for strikes, and was able to get out of a jam in the appearance, although it didn't matter due to Chapman's meltdown in the ninth inning. 2 PC-2 ST (5/19/13)Colorado Rockies(CL) Solid Rafael Betancourt (R)âPitched a scoreless ninth inning on Sunday in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Betancourt has just five saves over the last month of the season, but at least he as been able to continue his hot start in his non-save appearances. 11 PC-8 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Rex Brothers (L)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning Sunday allowing two hits on 14 pitches thrown. Brothers got himself into some trouble but showed some resilience to keep his scoreless innings streak intact. 14 PC-9 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Wilton Lopez (R)âPitched 1.1 innings of relief on Saturday night retiring all four batters he faced in order. Lopez has looked sharp inn his previous three outings, so maybe he has turn the corner from the shaky start to his first season with the Rockies. 12 PC-10 ST (5/18/13)Los Angeles Dodgers(CL) Shaky Brandon League (R)âWas charged a blown-save Sunday after allowing two runs (zero earned) on two hits and one walk while striking out one batter. There were talks that Kenley Jansen would soon take over the closer role, but he has been struggling as of late, so League appears to be safe for now. 19 PC-12 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Kenley Jansen (R)âTook the loss despite picking up his ninth hold of the season Sunday after allowing two runs on one hit and one walk in the eighth inning. Jansen has now taken the loss in back-to-back games, so a day off will definitely be in store for him on Monday. 14 PC-8 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Ronald Belisario (R)âEarned his fifth hold of the season Sunday after pitching one inning of scoreless relief, allowing one walk on 15 pitches thrown. Belisario has pitched well as of late, and with Kenley Jansen pitching back-to-back days, he may be used in the setup role on Monday. 15 PC-9 ST (5/19/13)Miami Marlins(CL) Shaky Steve Cishek (R)âEarned his first hold of the season Sunday after allowing one hit and one walk in the ninth inning. Cishek was pulled after allowing the two base runners, with Mike Dunn replacing him and earning his first save of the season, so maybe the team is starting to give up on Cishek. 14 PC-6 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Mike Dunn (L)âPicked up his first save of the season Sunday after recording the final out of the ninth inning in relief on Steve Cishek. This may be a sign that the team is starting to get frustrated with Steve Cishek, so in deep leagues, it may be time to start stashing Dunn. 13 PC-6 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) A.J. Ramos (R)--Was used to record the final out of the 10th inning on Thursday night, forcing the only batter he faced to ground out on five pitches. With Steve Cishek throwing 31 pitches on Thursday, there is a chance he will be unavailable to pitch on Friday, with Mike Dunn or Ramos being the likely candidates to fill in for Cishek if that is the case. 5 PC-3 ST (5/16/13)Milwaukee Brewers(CL) Solid Jim Henderson (R)âCollected his eighth save of the season Saturday after pitching a 1-2-3 10th inning. With all the pitcher in the Brewers bullpen being use heavily as of late, expect to see Henderson used on Sunday no matter the situation, after throwing only 10 pitches in his first appearance since Tuesday. 10 PC-6 ST (5/18/13)
(MR) John Axford (R)âPicked up the win on Saturday after pitching 1.1 innings of scoreless relief, allowing one hit and two walks while striking out three batters. Axford needed 33 pitches to get out of the jam, and has now pitched back-to-back days, so don't expect to see him take the mound on Sunday. 33 PC-13 ST (5/18/13)
(MR) Michael Gonzalez (L)âFailed to record an out in his appearance on Saturday allowing a hit to the only batter he faced in the sixth inning. Gonzalez has now pitched back-to-back days, but considering his low pitch counts, he should be able to pitch Sunday if needed. 5 PC-3 ST (5/18/13)New York Mets(CL) Shaky Bobby Parnell (R)âEarned his sixth save of the season on Sunday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out two batters on 14 pitches thrown. With the latest news on Frank Francisco's setback, Parnell's fantasy value will stay put for the time being, but at this point it would be hard for the Mets to take him out of the closer role considering how he has been pitching. 14 PC-9 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Brandon Lyon (R)âPicked up his fourth hold of the season Thursday after recording the final two outs of the eighth inning. He allowed one hit in the appearance, but was able to get out of the jam by forcing two ground ball outs on seven pitches. 7 PC-4 ST (5/16/13)
(MR) LaTroy Hawkins (R)--Was used in the eighth inning Wednesday night allowing one run on one hit and two walks while striking out two batters. Hawkins has now given up runs in three straight appearances dating back to last week, and will need to right the ship if he wants to stay in his current role. 27 PC-15 ST (5/15/13)
Injuredâ Frank Francisco (Elbow)Philadelphia Phillies(CL) Elite Jonathan Papelbon (R)âEarned his eighth save of the season Friday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one walk on 17 pitches thrown. Papelbon may not have the strikeout totals we had grown accustomed to seeing form him over the years, but he is still getting the job done, as a position riddled with failure, so consider yourself lucky if you drafted him this year. 17 PC-8 ST (5/17/13)
(SU) Mike Adams (R)âTook the loss Friday night after serving up the game-winning home run to Miguel Montero in the eighth inning. With this appearance Adams falls to 1-3 on the season with a 3.00 earned-run average over 15 innings of work. 11 PC-6 ST (5/10/13)
(MR) Antonio Bastardo (L)âPicked up his second win of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless ninth inning in a non-save situation allowing one hit while striking out one batter. Bastardo owners got lucky in this contest, as it is not every day Aroldis Chapman allows two home runs in the same game. 10 PC-8 ST (5/19/13)Pittsburgh Pirates(CL) Elite Jason Grilli (R)âRecorded his 17th save of the season Sunday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out one batter. Grilli becomes the first closer to 17 saves, and continues to be the biggest surprise at his position and it doesn't appear like he will be slowing down anytime soon. 10 PC-8 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Mark Melancon (R)--Earned his 15th hold of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning retiring all three batters he faced in order. Melancon scuffled in his previous appearance, but was able to get right back on track in this contest, and is now sporting a 0.78 ERA on the year. 13 PC-10 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Jose Contreras (R)--Pitched a scoreless ninth inning Thursday night in a non-save situation retiring all three batters he faced in order. Contreras looked good in this one, striking out tow batters while forcing one ground ball out to get the job done and seal the victory for the Pirates. 13 PC-8 ST (5/16/13)San Diego Padres(CL) Solid Huston Street (R)âEarned his 10th save of the season on Saturday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing two walks while striking out one batter. Street has now pitched back-to-back days, so it is likely you will see Luke Gregerson in the closer role on Sunday if one arises. 16 PC-5 ST (5/18/13)
(SU) Luke Gregerson (R)âPicked up the win on Tuesday after recording the final out of the eighth inning. Gregerson has been very effective this season, posting a 1.00 ERA and would be the first pick for the Padres to take over the closer role if something was to happen to Huston Street. 6 PC-3 ST (5/14/13)
(MR) Dale Thayer (R)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning Friday night retiring all three batters he faced in order. Thayer has pitched decent this season and if he continues to rack up strikeouts, he could be a solid add in deep holds leagues. 18 PC-15 ST (5/17/13)San Francisco Giants(CL) Elite Sergio Romo (R)âCollected his 13th save of the season Thursday night after striking out the only two batters he faced in the ninth inning. Romo has allowed three runs in his previous two outings, so it was nice to see him have a clean appearance as he got back on track to hold onto the lead for the Giants. 11 PC-7 ST (5/16/13)
(SU) Santiago Casilla (R)âPitched a scoreless seventh inning Friday night despite allowing one hit and two walks in the appearance. This wasn't the best showing from Casilla, but at least he escaped unharmed to keep the Giants in the ballgame. 26 PC-13 ST (5/17/13)
(MR) Javier Lopez (L)â Pitched a scoreless eighth inning Wednesday allowing one hit on 12 pitches thrown. This appearance marked the first time  in his last three outings that he pitching a full inning, and has done it just two times over his last 10 appearances, which has limited his fantasy value in holds leagues. 12 PC-7 ST (5/15/13)
St. Louis Cardinals
(CL) Solid Edward Mujica (R)âRecorded his 13th save of the season Sunday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning needing only 11 pitches to get the job done. Mujica has now pitched three consecutive days, so he will likely get the day off on Monday, so look for Fernando Salas to be used in the role if a save situation arises. 11 PC-9 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Trevor Rosenthal (R)--Earned his 13th hold of the season Sunday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one hit while striking out two batters. Like Edward Mujica, Rosenthal has now pitched three straight days, so expect to see Fernando Salas used in the closer role if a save situation arises on Monday. 12 PC-9 ST (5/19/13)
(MR) Fernando Salas (R)--Pitched a scoreless sixth inning Saturday night retiring all three batters he faced in order. Salas bounced back nicely form a poor showing on Thursday, but is far too inconsistent to consider using in holds leagues at this point. 14 PC-10 ST (5/18/13)
Injuredâ Jason Motte (Elbow)Washington Nationals(CL) Elite Rafael Soriano (R)--Picked up the win on Friday night despite being charged with a blown-save after allowing two runs (non earned) on three hits in the ninth inning. Soriano didn't have his best stuff, but was able to limit the damage, which landed him and his fantasy owners a rare win. (5/17/13)
(SU) Drew Storen (R)âWas used in the eighth inning on Sunday allowing one run on two hits while striking out one batter. The run allowed was a solo-home run by Yonder Alonso, but the game was already completely out of reach, so it was not a major issue in this appearance. 14 PC-11 ST (5/19/13)
(SU) Tyler Clippard (R)âPicked up his seventh hold of the season Friday night after pitching 1.1 innings of relief allowing one walk while striking out one batter. Clippard needed 21 pitches to get through the appearance, which was his third showing this week, so a day off on Saturday may be in store. 21 PC-13 ST (5/17/13)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
{{item.text}}
{{item.ago}}
{{analysis.analysis}}
{{item.datetime}} (ET)
