RADIO
The two main closer stories over the past few days have come from surprising candidates, while the gift that keeps on giving up runs (Jays Bullpen) comes through again.
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Huston Street (LAA)
Veteran closer Street has had a great season so far, with 34 strikeouts in 33.2 innings and recording 24 saves. In his last appearance on July 8th, he did injure his groin and is expected to sit out until at least the All-Star break. His owners should definitely monitor this situation and hope that it's simply a tweak and nothing serious. In the meantime, Joe Smith and hard-thrower Trevor Gott will be in line for save appearances. Both are available in most leagues and either one of these guys are decent waiver wire options if you're in need of immediate closer help leading up to the All-Star break.
Brad Boxberger (TB)
Boxberger has now blown two consecutive saves after allowing a walk-off grand slam to the Royals in his last save opportunity. Before these last two appearances he had been great, racking up 45 strikeouts and 20 saves in only 33 innings. While it doesn't necessarily seem like his job is in jeopardy, they do have Jake Mcgee waiting in the wings who hasn't allowed a run since May 26th. He's primarily only been brought in to face lefties this season, however, if Boxberger continues to struggle he may get a shot closing games. At only 36.7% owned in ESPN leagues, this is a guy who could become a great waiver wire option down the road.
Roberto Osuna (TOR)
Of course the Blue Jays need to be included in this. Osuna came into his last game with the score tied at 6 and proceeded to give up a walk-off home run on two pitches. It's safe to say that the Jays bullpen is not what anyone envisioned coming into this season. All three closing options in Cecil, Delabar, and Osuna have been battered around without any consistency. I still feel that Osuna is their best closing candidate at this point and that it'd be smart to allow the 20-year-old to get intense experience at the Major League level. At this point as fantasy options, any of these three guys should only be picked up if you're in extremely desperate need for an arm. Anything other than desperation and the Jays bullpen should be avoided at all costs.
