Bullpen Report: June 18, 2013
A slightly abbreviated report this evening:
• Chris Perez pitched for the AA Akron Aeros today on a rehab assignment and the results weren’t pretty. As far as rehab assignments go, having no set backs on your recovery is all that really matters, but Chris Perez allowed 5 runs on 5 hits, 3 HRs, 1 double and hit a batter just for show as well. On the bright side, he did get two strikeouts! In all seriousness, I wouldn’t put too much weight on this rehab performance as the important part is that he’s recovering from injury and should return to Cleveland soon, but those waiting to cut ties with Vinnie Pestano might want to hold a tad longer. Additionally, jokes made about how Perez is showing he’s in mid-season form are pretty good.
• Speaking of Pestano, Perez’ replacement recorded his second save of the season tonight against the Royals. Pestano threw a scoreless ninth but it wasn’t smooth sailing as he allowed four batters to reach base in the inning. Pestano has not been that sharp this year (5.31 FIP) but Francona will keep handing him the ball in the ninth with Perez on the shelf, who as of this writing is still scheduled to return to the Indians on Friday.
• Bobby Parnell recorded a four-out save today against the Braves today in the first game of the double header for his 10th of the year. Parnell’s name hasn’t been involved in many trade rumors but it was announced that the Mets will not be shopping Parnell at the deadline. Parnell would be more attractive pitching for another team in 2013 but he’s been solid with a 2.09 FIP this year.
• Andrew Bailey was awarded his third win of the season tonight but it was at the expense of his third blown save. Bailey, who has mostly been good this season when he’s pitched is in a little bit of a funk at the moment with five earned runs allowed and two blown saves in his last three appearances. Since returning from the DL, Bailey has seen his velocity decline which makes you wonder if Bailey could still be hurting or if he will be pitching with slightly less velocity from here on out. Any way you slice it, although Bailey remains closer in Boston, Junichi Tazawa gets a little more attractive in fantasy leagues.
Closer Grid:
[Green light, yellow light, red light: the colors represent the volatility of the bullpen order.]
When he's not focusing on every team's bullpen situation, Ben can be found blogging at Ben's Baseball Bias and on Twitter @BensBias
Aaaand Ollie Perez makes an appearance in the 7th.