[sv_hlds_list list_id=”17238″ include_stats=”1″ season=”2018″]
Following up on our weekly Closers and Holds articles will be our Top 100 RP’s for SV+HD leagues every Friday. Use this list to get a feel for the current reliever market and to gauge value for trades, waiver adds, etc.
NOTES
- I havn’t talked about Aroldis Chapman much since the start of the season, but I think it’s worth pointing out his early numbers so far. He’s ranking in the top 10 among relievers in SwStr% and Z-Contact% which is a good indicator he can still be that 2012-2016 Chapman. The only difference being his velocity is down a couple ticks, but he is throwing his slider a career high 30.8% which is helping to keep hitters more off balance. That number hasn’t been over 20% since 2014 so it’ll be interesting to see how that usage looks going forward.
- The Cubs have yet to use Brandon Morrow in anything but a save situation since he faced one batter in their 17th inning loss to the Marlins back on March 30th. He went a whole week until his next appearance, and the fact that he’s been used sparingly makes me think they are going to preserve him for save situations only. That could mean he doesn’t see more than 40/50 innings this season, limiting his counting stat value.
- Nate Jones saw the last save opportunity for the White Sox, which may be a sign the team is starting to favor him in that role, especially with Joakim Soria’s inconsistencies. I know they had announced the two would split chances at the beginning of the season, but Jones (when healthy) is a much better option, past 9th inning struggles and all.
- Despite short stints as their respective teams closers, I’m still optimistic about Dominic Leone and to a lesser degree Blake Parker’s outlook this season. Leone has had some bad luck (.455 BABIP, 3 HR in 5.2 IP after allowing 6 over 70+ last season). Parker has had some walk issues, which is uncharacteristic of himself.
- Still waiting on the Emilio Pagan’s strikeout numbers we were promised. They should come with time, but for now it’s at least nice to see him working closer to a setup role for the A’s.
