If there were a comeback reliever of the year award, I’d imagine the honor would go to Trevor Rosenthal (with Daniel Bard not far behind) following his dominant (short) season. Rosenthal was able to get back to his 2017 self after missing all of 2o18 and struggling mightily over 15.1 IP last year. His 38.8% K rate ranks 10th amongst all qualified relievers this year and he’s also in the top 10% in many xStat categories. After signing a minor league contract this past offseason, it will be interesting to see what Rosenthal commands on the open market this winter.
Notes
- Rosenthal’s replacement in Kansas City, Greg Holland, had been lights out since taking over as the teams closer. Over the past 30 days he has a 18/1 K/BB rate while allowing just 6 hits over 12.1 IP. However, he is dealing with an oblique injury, so look for the Royals to turn to Jesse Hahn or Scott Barlow if they are in a save situation this weekend against Detroit.
- Stefan Crichton finishes of the season with 4 games at home against the Rockies, which should set up as a pretty safe bet for one, maybe two more saves from him. Crichton has admirably filled in as the Diamondbacks closer following the trade of Archie Bradley, and I wonder if the organization feels comfortable about him returning to the role for 2021.
- The White Sox bullpen has gotten some reinforcements in the past week, first with the promotion of 2020 draft pick Garret Crochet and then getting Aaron Bummer back yesterday after a lengthy IL stint. Crochet has electric stuff, especially from the left side, as he sits at 100 MPH but I’m not sure if he will see any hold situations before the season ends. Bummer will likely be eased back into action and may not see a hold situation this weekend, either, making both options a gamble for those needing saves or holds.
- Mike Mayers and Justin Wilson led all relievers this past week with 3 SV+HLDs. Mayers has been fantastic this season and is now finally starting to see SV+HLD usage. Unfortunately, the Angels get the Dodgers this weekend to end the year, but perhaps the Dodgers, who have clinched the top NL seed, will sit some of their regulars.
Photo by Gregory Fisher/Icon Sportswire | Adapted by Justin Paradis (@freshmeatcomm on Twitter)
Thanks for everything this season! Who’s the best bet for a couple SV/HLDs this weekend? Options are Mayers, Andriese, Martin, Hahn, and Brasier
I love what Mayers has been doing, but Hahn and Martin have the better matchups. I doubt any one gets 2 SV+HLD’s so I’m still leaning towards Mayers and hoping the Angels can take one from the Dodgers.