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Our first and hopefully only major injury occurred last weekend and this will definitely shake up some rosters. No trades have happened yet, but you never know what will go down during All-Star week.
Editor's Note: Bookmark our MLB Closers & Saves Depth Charts for the latest look at all the current closers, setup men, longshots and relief pitcher waiver wire adds.
Jason Grilli (ATL)
Terrible news for Grilli owners this week as he suffered a season ending Achilles injury attempting to cover first base. This is heartbreaking for one of the best closers in baseball over the past few years. Grilli's year will come to an end with 24 saves and 45 strikeouts in 33.2 innings. Obviously all Grilli owners should drop him at their earliest convenience and hit the waiver wire.
The immediate replacement for Grilli is likely veteran closer Jim Johnson. Johnson is only 37.9% owned in ESPN leagues so Grilli owners should try to pick him up as soon as possible if he's available. Johnson has actually had a really nice season so far with a 2.09 ERA in 43 innings. While he doesn't strike batters out at Grilli's level, he is an excellent ground ball pitcher, forcing hitters into ground balls 60% of the time according to Fangraphs. Johnson is a great waiver wire pickup in all leagues.
Reliever Luis Avilan should also see an increase to the amount of important innings that he appears in with Johnson moving into the closer role. Avilan is really not a fantasy option at this point but would appear to be the main setup option for the Braves going forward.
Jonathan Papelbon (PHI)
The veteran closer came out Monday and stated publicly that he'd like to be traded. A trade at this point would improve his value, as he'd certainly be going to a team with more save opportunities than the Phillies. Possible destinations could include Toronto, Seattle, or even the Chicago Cubs. He's had a great year with a 1.60 ERA and better than a strikeout per inning average. With a ton of big game experience, he'd be a great addition for any team.
If a trade with Papelbon occurs, keep an eye on Ken Giles who would most likely step in as the new closer. A flame thrower who has touched 103 MPH, Giles would instantly become a great waiver wire option. He has 48 strikeouts in only 38.2 innings and has allowed no runs in 14 of his last 15 appearances. Giles is only 23.9% owned in ESPN leagues so if this trade with Papelbon occurs, make sure you're the first person in your league to scoop up Giles.
All Star Break
Some shout-outs to closers who were great in the first half:
Mark Melancon (PIT) for leading the league in saves with 29. Glen Perkins (MIN) for his 100% save percentage, recording 28 saves without a blown save. Andrew Miller (NYY) for holding batters to an unreal .097 average. And lastly, Kenley Jansen (LAD) for his crazy 19/1 K/BB ratio.
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