Fantasy Baseball: MLB Daily Bullpen Usage and Depth Chart 5/21
Published: May 21, 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.
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American League Bullpen ReportBaltimore Orioles(CL) Solid Jim Johnson (R)âWas charged with his third straight blown-save on Monday night after surrendering one run on two hits in the ninth inning. Due to his past he performances it is hard to say that the team will start exploring other options, but he has now allowed eight runs over his last 2.1 innings of relief, so it is going to be hard for the team to ignore. 24 PC-13 ST (5/20/13)
(SU) Darren OâDay (R)âEarned his sixth hold of the season Monday night after pitching a 1-2-3 eighth inning striking out two batters. With the recent struggles of Jim Johnson, there is an outside chance that O'Day could see work in the ninth inning in the near future, but at this point it appears Pedro Strop would be the front runner if a change was made in the closer role. 13 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Pedro Strop (R)âTook the loss on Monday night after allowing two runs on two hits and one walk in the 10th inning. Strop had pitched well over the last few outings prior to his appearance, so hopefully he will be able to bounce back form this rough one,m especially with teammate Jim Johnson hitting a rough patch as well. 14 PC-7 ST (5/20/13)
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 15th save of the season Monday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit while striking out one batter. Despite the struggles of the White Sox as a whole, Reed has been excellent this season and is now 15-for-16 in save opportunities, making him one of the better closers to own in all of baseball. 14 PC-11 ST (5/20/13)(SU) Jesse Crain (R)âEarned his 13th hold of the season Monday night after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one walk on 18 pitches thrown. Crain has officially taken over the eight inning duties from Matt Thronton after a great start to the season, and if the White Sox continue to play in a lot of close games, 30-plus holds is not out of the question by season's end. 18 PC-9 ST (5/20/13)(MR) Matt Thornton (L)âPitched one inning of relief on Monday surrendering two runs on one hit and one walk. After a few good outings, Thornton once again showed his inconsistency in this contest, and is not worth holding onto in holds leagues, unless you are desperate. 27 PC-14 ST (5/20/13)Cleveland Indians
(CL) Solid Chris Perez (R)âWas used in a non-save situation Monday allowing one run on one hit and two walks while striking out two batters in the ninth inning. Perez allowed a home run to Endy Chavez, which gave the Mariners the lead, but int he bottom half of the inning the Indians offense tied the game back up, saving Perez from being tagged with a loss. 28 PC-16 ST (5/20/13)
(SU) Vinny Pestano (R)--Was charged with his first blown-save of the season Monday after serving up a solo-home run to Kyle Seager in the eighth inning. This was just his second appearance since coming off the disabled list, so a little rust should be expected until he gets back in the swing of things. 22 PC-14 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Joe Smith (R)--Picked up the win on Monday despite allowing one run on one hit while striking out one batter in the 10th inning. Smith allowed a home run to Justin Smoak, which briefly gave the Mariners the lead, but that didn't last long once Charlie Furbush took the mound, allowing Smith to qualify for the win. 12 PC-11 ST (5/20/13)
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 seventh save of the season Monday night after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out two batters on 16 pitches thrown. Despite being overshadowed by a terrible team, Veras has pitched well as of late, and has only one less save than Jonathan Papelbon, who was drafted at least 10 rounds ahead of him. 16 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
(SU) Wesley Wright (L)âPicked up his third hold of the season Monday despite allowing one run on one hit in the eighth inning. He recorded just one out in the appearance, throwing just six pitches, so he should be used on Tuesday if needed. 6 PC-3 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Hector Ambriz (R)--Earned his seventh hold of the season Monday night after recording the final two outs of the eighth inning. He allowed one hit in the appearance, but was able to work around it to keep the Astros lead at one run, and has now pitched back-to-back days. 11 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
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)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Monday night retiring the side on just 12 pitches thrown. With the recent struggles of Kelvin Herrera, the team is considering moving Crow into the setup role, which will increase his fantasy value significantly in holds leagues. 12 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
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 17th save of the season Monday night after pitching a 1-2-3 10th inning striking out one batter. Make that 17-for-17 in save chances for Rivera in 2013, as he continues to dominate the opposition without the use of an overpowering fastball. 16 PC-10 ST (5/20/13)
(SU) David Robertson (R)âPicked up the win on Monday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit while striking out two batters. Robertson has now been used in the team's previous two games, but with a rain out on Sunday, it allowed him to get an extra day of rest, so he will be available to pitch on Tuesday. 14 PC-10 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Boone Logan (R)âRecorded the final two outs of the eighth inning on Monday night needing only 12 pitches to get the job done. After a shaky start to the season, Logan has started to put it together, and is now sitting on a 2.03 ERA on the year. 12 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)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)âWas charged with his first blown-save of the season Monday after allowing one run (unearned) on two hits in the ninth inning. After taking the lead in the top half of the inning, Wilhelmsen couldn't hold onto the lead, but fantasy owners can't be too disappointed, considering how well he has pitch this season prior to this performance. 22 PC-17 ST (5/20/13)
(SU) Carter Capps (R)âRecorded the final two outs of the eighth inning on Monday retiring both batters he faced in order. Capps needed only seven pitches to get out of the inning, and has now struck out three batter in his last 2.1 innings of work. 7 PC-5 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Charlie Furbush (L)âTook the loss on Monday after surrendering three runs (two earned) on tow hits in the 10th inning, without recording an out. Furbush has now pitched back-to-back days, so don't expect to see him used on Tuesday. 13 PC-7 ST (5/20/13)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)âPitched a scoreless sixth inning on Monday retiring all three batters he faced in order. McGee has pitched better as of late, but is still far off from being a pitcher we can trust to use in holds leagues, so don't let him last few appearances fool you. 11 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
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)âWas used in a non-save situation on Monday allowing two runs on three hits and one walk in the ninth inning. This was the first time Janssen took the mound since May 11, and appeared to be rusty, so hopefully he will be used more frequently in the upcoming days to prevent outings like this, when they matter the most. 26  PC-15 ST (5/20/13)
(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)--With Craig Kimbrel unavailable, Gearrin was used to get the final out of the ninth inning which earned him his first big league save. He forced the only batter he faced to fly out on two pitches, but should be back int he setup role on Tuesday if needed. 2 PC-1 ST (5/20/13)
(MR)  Luis Avilan (L)--Pitched 0.1 innings of relief on Monday allowing one hit while forcing one fly ball out in the eighth inning. Avilan needed nine pitches to get through the appearance and has now pitched back-to-back days, so don't expect to see him take the mound on Tuesday. 9 PC-5 ST (5/20/13)
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)âRecorded his ninth save of the season Monday night after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out two batters. Chapman took the loss on Sunday after allowing back-to-back home runs in the bottom of the ninth inning, so it was nice to see him bounce back from that performance in this game, proving why he is one of the best closers in baseball. 11 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
(SU) Jonathan Broxton (R)âPicked up his seventh hold of the season Monday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one hit while striking out one batter. Broxton has now pitched back-to-back days, so expect him to be given a day off and be a spectator on Tuesday night. 11 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Sean Marshall (L)--Earned his seventh hold of the season Monday night after recording the final two outs of the seventh inning. He faced only two batters in the appearance, forcing one ground ball out and one strikeout to get the job done. 12 PC-7 ST (5/20/13)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 a scoreless ninth inning Monday night in a non-save situation allowing two hits on 22 pitches thrown. Lopez has yet to be used in a role of any significance over the last few weeks, which has limited his fantasy value, despite pitching well as of late. 22 PC-16 ST (5/20/13)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)--Earned his fourth hold of the season Monday night after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one walk while striking out one batter. Ramos has pitched just two innings since last Thursday, so he should be expected to be used more frequently over the next few days. 13 PC-7 ST (5/20/13)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)âPitched a scoreless seventh inning on Monday night retiring all three batters he faced in order. Axford had been playing with fire in his previous few outings, allowing a lot of base runners, but that was not an issue in this contest, so maybe he can build off of this performance and try to salvage his season. 6 PC-4 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Michael Gonzalez (L)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Monday night retiring all three batters he faced in order. Gonzalez recorded three strikeouts in this outing, which was arguably his best performance of this young season. 14 PC-10 ST (5/20/13)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)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Monday night allowing one hit while striking out two batter on 17 pitches thrown. This was Lyon's first appearance since last Thursday, so expect to see him often over the next few days. 17 PC-12 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) LaTroy Hawkins (R)--Pitched a scoreless seventh inning on Monday night allowing two walks while striking out one batter needing 29 pitches to get the job done. Hawkins has been inconsistent this season, but that should be expected from a 40-year-old at the end of his career. 29 PC-14 ST (5/20/13)
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) 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)
(MR) Jeremy Horst (L)--Pitched 0.1 innings of relief on Monday night needing just seven pitches to record the first out of the eighth inning. Horst has been used in similar situations for most of the season, but may see an increase in usage with Mike Adams hitting the disabled list. 7 PC-6 ST (5/20/13)
Injured--Mike Adams (Back)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 11th save of the season Monday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning needing 12 pitches to get the job done. Street has now put together back-to-back solid outings since his last poor showing, so he appears to be back on track despite a bloated earned-run average (4.19 ERA). 12 PC-9 ST (5/20/13)
(SU) Luke Gregerson (R)âPicked up his 10th hold of the season Monday night after recording the final two outs of the eighth inning. This was Gregerson's first appearance in seven days, so expect to see a heavy workload over the next few days if the Padres continue to stay in games. 7 PC-6 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Dale Thayer (R)âEarned his eighth hold of the season Monday after recording the first two outs of the seventh inning. He allowed one hit and one walk in the appearance, but neither base runner cross home plate, so his earned-run average escaped Monday's contest unharmed. 15 PC-10 ST (5/20/13)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 eighth inning on Monday night allowing one walk  on just 12 pitches thrown. Casilla has now pitched only two innings over the last four games, so expect to see a heavier dose of him over the course of the next few days. 12 PC-4 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Javier Lopez (L)â Pitched 1.1 innings of relief on Monday recording three strikeouts while forcing one ground ball out on 19 pitches thrown. This was by far Lopez's best outing of the season, and it came at a great time, considering he relieved the injured Ryan Vogelsong, who was pitching great before his early exit. 19 PC-12 ST (5/20/13)
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 just 0.1 innings of relief on Monday night allowing one hit and one walk on 16 pitches thrown. He was charged with a blown-save in the appearance, but is was just a baseball technicality, so don't look too much into that decision. 16 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
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)âWas charged with his third straight blown-save on Monday night after surrendering one run on two hits in the ninth inning. Due to his past he performances it is hard to say that the team will start exploring other options, but he has now allowed eight runs over his last 2.1 innings of relief, so it is going to be hard for the team to ignore. 24 PC-13 ST (5/20/13)
(SU) Darren OâDay (R)âEarned his sixth hold of the season Monday night after pitching a 1-2-3 eighth inning striking out two batters. With the recent struggles of Jim Johnson, there is an outside chance that O'Day could see work in the ninth inning in the near future, but at this point it appears Pedro Strop would be the front runner if a change was made in the closer role. 13 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Pedro Strop (R)âTook the loss on Monday night after allowing two runs on two hits and one walk in the 10th inning. Strop had pitched well over the last few outings prior to his appearance, so hopefully he will be able to bounce back form this rough one,m especially with teammate Jim Johnson hitting a rough patch as well. 14 PC-7 ST (5/20/13)
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 15th save of the season Monday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit while striking out one batter. Despite the struggles of the White Sox as a whole, Reed has been excellent this season and is now 15-for-16 in save opportunities, making him one of the better closers to own in all of baseball. 14 PC-11 ST (5/20/13)(SU) Jesse Crain (R)âEarned his 13th hold of the season Monday night after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one walk on 18 pitches thrown. Crain has officially taken over the eight inning duties from Matt Thronton after a great start to the season, and if the White Sox continue to play in a lot of close games, 30-plus holds is not out of the question by season's end. 18 PC-9 ST (5/20/13)(MR) Matt Thornton (L)âPitched one inning of relief on Monday surrendering two runs on one hit and one walk. After a few good outings, Thornton once again showed his inconsistency in this contest, and is not worth holding onto in holds leagues, unless you are desperate. 27 PC-14 ST (5/20/13)Cleveland Indians
(CL) Solid Chris Perez (R)âWas used in a non-save situation Monday allowing one run on one hit and two walks while striking out two batters in the ninth inning. Perez allowed a home run to Endy Chavez, which gave the Mariners the lead, but int he bottom half of the inning the Indians offense tied the game back up, saving Perez from being tagged with a loss. 28 PC-16 ST (5/20/13)
(SU) Vinny Pestano (R)--Was charged with his first blown-save of the season Monday after serving up a solo-home run to Kyle Seager in the eighth inning. This was just his second appearance since coming off the disabled list, so a little rust should be expected until he gets back in the swing of things. 22 PC-14 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Joe Smith (R)--Picked up the win on Monday despite allowing one run on one hit while striking out one batter in the 10th inning. Smith allowed a home run to Justin Smoak, which briefly gave the Mariners the lead, but that didn't last long once Charlie Furbush took the mound, allowing Smith to qualify for the win. 12 PC-11 ST (5/20/13)
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 seventh save of the season Monday night after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out two batters on 16 pitches thrown. Despite being overshadowed by a terrible team, Veras has pitched well as of late, and has only one less save than Jonathan Papelbon, who was drafted at least 10 rounds ahead of him. 16 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
(SU) Wesley Wright (L)âPicked up his third hold of the season Monday despite allowing one run on one hit in the eighth inning. He recorded just one out in the appearance, throwing just six pitches, so he should be used on Tuesday if needed. 6 PC-3 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Hector Ambriz (R)--Earned his seventh hold of the season Monday night after recording the final two outs of the eighth inning. He allowed one hit in the appearance, but was able to work around it to keep the Astros lead at one run, and has now pitched back-to-back days. 11 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
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)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Monday night retiring the side on just 12 pitches thrown. With the recent struggles of Kelvin Herrera, the team is considering moving Crow into the setup role, which will increase his fantasy value significantly in holds leagues. 12 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
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 17th save of the season Monday night after pitching a 1-2-3 10th inning striking out one batter. Make that 17-for-17 in save chances for Rivera in 2013, as he continues to dominate the opposition without the use of an overpowering fastball. 16 PC-10 ST (5/20/13)
(SU) David Robertson (R)âPicked up the win on Monday night after pitching a scoreless ninth inning allowing one hit while striking out two batters. Robertson has now been used in the team's previous two games, but with a rain out on Sunday, it allowed him to get an extra day of rest, so he will be available to pitch on Tuesday. 14 PC-10 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Boone Logan (R)âRecorded the final two outs of the eighth inning on Monday night needing only 12 pitches to get the job done. After a shaky start to the season, Logan has started to put it together, and is now sitting on a 2.03 ERA on the year. 12 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)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)âWas charged with his first blown-save of the season Monday after allowing one run (unearned) on two hits in the ninth inning. After taking the lead in the top half of the inning, Wilhelmsen couldn't hold onto the lead, but fantasy owners can't be too disappointed, considering how well he has pitch this season prior to this performance. 22 PC-17 ST (5/20/13)
(SU) Carter Capps (R)âRecorded the final two outs of the eighth inning on Monday retiring both batters he faced in order. Capps needed only seven pitches to get out of the inning, and has now struck out three batter in his last 2.1 innings of work. 7 PC-5 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Charlie Furbush (L)âTook the loss on Monday after surrendering three runs (two earned) on tow hits in the 10th inning, without recording an out. Furbush has now pitched back-to-back days, so don't expect to see him used on Tuesday. 13 PC-7 ST (5/20/13)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)âPitched a scoreless sixth inning on Monday retiring all three batters he faced in order. McGee has pitched better as of late, but is still far off from being a pitcher we can trust to use in holds leagues, so don't let him last few appearances fool you. 11 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
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)âWas used in a non-save situation on Monday allowing two runs on three hits and one walk in the ninth inning. This was the first time Janssen took the mound since May 11, and appeared to be rusty, so hopefully he will be used more frequently in the upcoming days to prevent outings like this, when they matter the most. 26  PC-15 ST (5/20/13)
(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)--With Craig Kimbrel unavailable, Gearrin was used to get the final out of the ninth inning which earned him his first big league save. He forced the only batter he faced to fly out on two pitches, but should be back int he setup role on Tuesday if needed. 2 PC-1 ST (5/20/13)
(MR)  Luis Avilan (L)--Pitched 0.1 innings of relief on Monday allowing one hit while forcing one fly ball out in the eighth inning. Avilan needed nine pitches to get through the appearance and has now pitched back-to-back days, so don't expect to see him take the mound on Tuesday. 9 PC-5 ST (5/20/13)
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)âRecorded his ninth save of the season Monday night after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning striking out two batters. Chapman took the loss on Sunday after allowing back-to-back home runs in the bottom of the ninth inning, so it was nice to see him bounce back from that performance in this game, proving why he is one of the best closers in baseball. 11 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
(SU) Jonathan Broxton (R)âPicked up his seventh hold of the season Monday after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one hit while striking out one batter. Broxton has now pitched back-to-back days, so expect him to be given a day off and be a spectator on Tuesday night. 11 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Sean Marshall (L)--Earned his seventh hold of the season Monday night after recording the final two outs of the seventh inning. He faced only two batters in the appearance, forcing one ground ball out and one strikeout to get the job done. 12 PC-7 ST (5/20/13)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 a scoreless ninth inning Monday night in a non-save situation allowing two hits on 22 pitches thrown. Lopez has yet to be used in a role of any significance over the last few weeks, which has limited his fantasy value, despite pitching well as of late. 22 PC-16 ST (5/20/13)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)--Earned his fourth hold of the season Monday night after pitching a scoreless eighth inning allowing one walk while striking out one batter. Ramos has pitched just two innings since last Thursday, so he should be expected to be used more frequently over the next few days. 13 PC-7 ST (5/20/13)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)âPitched a scoreless seventh inning on Monday night retiring all three batters he faced in order. Axford had been playing with fire in his previous few outings, allowing a lot of base runners, but that was not an issue in this contest, so maybe he can build off of this performance and try to salvage his season. 6 PC-4 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Michael Gonzalez (L)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Monday night retiring all three batters he faced in order. Gonzalez recorded three strikeouts in this outing, which was arguably his best performance of this young season. 14 PC-10 ST (5/20/13)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)âPitched a scoreless eighth inning on Monday night allowing one hit while striking out two batter on 17 pitches thrown. This was Lyon's first appearance since last Thursday, so expect to see him often over the next few days. 17 PC-12 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) LaTroy Hawkins (R)--Pitched a scoreless seventh inning on Monday night allowing two walks while striking out one batter needing 29 pitches to get the job done. Hawkins has been inconsistent this season, but that should be expected from a 40-year-old at the end of his career. 29 PC-14 ST (5/20/13)
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) 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)
(MR) Jeremy Horst (L)--Pitched 0.1 innings of relief on Monday night needing just seven pitches to record the first out of the eighth inning. Horst has been used in similar situations for most of the season, but may see an increase in usage with Mike Adams hitting the disabled list. 7 PC-6 ST (5/20/13)
Injured--Mike Adams (Back)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 11th save of the season Monday after pitching a 1-2-3 ninth inning needing 12 pitches to get the job done. Street has now put together back-to-back solid outings since his last poor showing, so he appears to be back on track despite a bloated earned-run average (4.19 ERA). 12 PC-9 ST (5/20/13)
(SU) Luke Gregerson (R)âPicked up his 10th hold of the season Monday night after recording the final two outs of the eighth inning. This was Gregerson's first appearance in seven days, so expect to see a heavy workload over the next few days if the Padres continue to stay in games. 7 PC-6 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Dale Thayer (R)âEarned his eighth hold of the season Monday after recording the first two outs of the seventh inning. He allowed one hit and one walk in the appearance, but neither base runner cross home plate, so his earned-run average escaped Monday's contest unharmed. 15 PC-10 ST (5/20/13)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 eighth inning on Monday night allowing one walk  on just 12 pitches thrown. Casilla has now pitched only two innings over the last four games, so expect to see a heavier dose of him over the course of the next few days. 12 PC-4 ST (5/20/13)
(MR) Javier Lopez (L)â Pitched 1.1 innings of relief on Monday recording three strikeouts while forcing one ground ball out on 19 pitches thrown. This was by far Lopez's best outing of the season, and it came at a great time, considering he relieved the injured Ryan Vogelsong, who was pitching great before his early exit. 19 PC-12 ST (5/20/13)
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 just 0.1 innings of relief on Monday night allowing one hit and one walk on 16 pitches thrown. He was charged with a blown-save in the appearance, but is was just a baseball technicality, so don't look too much into that decision. 16 PC-8 ST (5/20/13)
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
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