Anthony Bender

Miami Marlins right-hander Anthony Bender recorded his second save of the season on Sunday, allowing one hit while striking out one batter in 24 pitches. Marlins' primary closer, Pete Fairbanks, has struggled so far this season, with a 7.41 ERA, 1.53 WHIP, and 10 walks in 17 innings pitched, and has converted on seven of his nine save opportunities, but with the struggling Fairbanks, it could open the door for Bender to get more opportunities down the stretch. Bender does have 16 career saves, so while he has not been primarily used as a closer in his five-year career, he does have some exposure to those situations. Bender has had a nice season himself, with a 0.86 WHIP and 3.04 ERA while striking out 29 batters in 26 2/3 innings pitched. Bender is worth a look in deeper formats, but for now, this situation is better viewed as a committee closer approach rather than a takeover by Bender.