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Your Latest News from the Back End of the Bullpen
We keep a close look on all the closers, saves and bullpen news and analysis twice a week so you can focus on the rest of your fantasy baseball teams. Find all the information you need on the back end of MLB bullpens right here at RotoBaller.com, and be sure to check out our up-to-date MLB fantasy baseball closer and saves depth charts.
Baltimore Orioles
If there were any questions as to who the new closer was in Baltimore, it was definitely answered this past weekend as Zach Britton earned two saves in back to back days.
His miniscule ERA (0.65) and WHIP (0.87) will keep him locked in that role going forward, and he can be a valuable contributor for all fantasy baseball teams. If he's somehow still available in your fantasy league, grab him off the waiver wire asap and reap the rewards of this dominant reliever.
New York Mets
Relievers have to be a little worried about blowing games as Jose Valverde and Kyle Farnsworth have been released in the last couple of weeks. The Mets recalled Vic Black from AAA. While Jenry Mejia is the closer for now, Vic Black has the repertoire to be the closer at some point.
Chicago White Sox
Ronald Belisario blew his second save of the year this past weekend and has allowed 6 runs on 8 hits in the 3 innings he has pitched since becoming the closer. His ERA (5.14) is incredibly high for a closer. Look for both Daniel Webb and Javy Guerra to get chances as well. Scott Downs could get a chance if the matchups favor a lefty pitcher.
St. Louis Cardinals
Jason Motte has returned to the Cardinals and will get a shot to be the 8th inning set up man for Trevor Rosenthal. Carlos Martinez was supposed to be that guy but he currently boasts a 3.95 ERA. If Rosenthal continues to falter, Motte could see save chances in the near future.
Identity Thieves
These are a few relievers who have a chance to steal the closer’s identity, or at least vulture a few saves in the short term.
Will Smith: K-Rod has pitched in back to back days including a 21 pitch blown save on Monday vs the Orioles.
Mark Melancon: Melancon earned saves both Sunday and Monday and will continue to get save chances here and there as Jason Grilli just returned from the DL and will be eased back into the role.
