Bullpen Report: May 8, 2014

Another relatively slow night here at the Bullpen Report. Here are a few updates regarding closers returning from the disabled list, Darren O’Day and Fernando Rodney.

-The end of Casey Janssen’s rehab stint could be near. Sounds like the right-hander will take the next few days off, then pitch on Saturday for Double-A New Hampshire. According to John Gibbons, Janssen could be back with the Blue Jays as early as Sunday or Monday, but the brass will likely make that decision following Saturday’s scheduled outing. Janssen made appearances in two consecutive games earlier this week for New Hampshire, going two innings without allowing an earned run or a walk, fanned two and surrendered three hits. In Janssen’s absence, Sergio Santos, Brett Cecil and Aaron Loup have combined to go 9-for-14 in save opportunities.

-Like Jannsen, Aroldis Chapman is looking to return from the horrific accident during Spring Training that has kept his from making his 2014 major league debut. Unlike Janssen, Chapman is experiencing some “difficulties” during his stop at Triple-A Louisville. The southpaw has appeared in two contests, pitched one full inning, allowing eight earned runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out just two opponents. Yes, you read that right. Eight earned runs. Chapman’s velocity appeared to look good. Reports out of the Reds’ camp indicate that the lefty “sat between 97-101, but lacked some control.” Those sources don’t seem to be too worried regarding the control issue and place the blame on the possible lack of adrenaline in at a level in which Chapman has nothing to prove. Maybe you can use the whole “he allowed eight earned runs in his last two outings” routine to try and pry Chapman from his owner in your fantasy league?

-With Tommy Hunter unavailable this evening, the Orioles sent right-hander Darren O’Day to the hill to finish off the Rays in the bottom half of the ninth. O’Day surrendered consecutive singles to start the inning, but induced a double-play ball off the bat of Desmond Jennings and a ground out to Matt Joyce to escape the ninth-inning jam and secure the 3-1 victory for the O’s. O’Day is 2-of-3 in save chances this season with a 0.60 ERA (4.25 FIP). As Colin noted last night, Tommy Hunter’s job should be safe for the time being despite some recent hiccups, so no need to run out and add O’Day for the time being.

–Quick Hits: Fernando Rodney notched his 10th save of the season despite allowing two free passes in a 1-0 Mariners victory over the Royals.

Closer Grid:

[Green light, yellow light, red light: the colors represent the volatility of the bullpen order.]