Closing Time 8/21: Ranking the Top 30 Closers Every Tuesday

[closing_time list_id=”24575″ season=”2018″ include_stats=”1″]

• With every converted save by Josh Hader or Jeremy Jeffress, the Brewers appear more and more at peace with the idea Corey Knebel will not be closing out any games for them the rest of the season. Knebel has been used just twice over the past week, with his latest outing resulting in 2 runs (1 earned) on a hit and a walk while pitching in the 6th inning with the Brewers down 3. Jeffress and Hader are the only two relievers to own in Milwaukee right now, as Knebel has a long ways to go to reclaim his job.
• A.J. Minter could be on his way out of the closers role as well, as Dan Winkler worked the 9th with a one run lead last night despite the fact Minter hadnt pitched since Saturday. That outing Saturday was pretty awful (4 hits, 3 runs, while recording 2 outs), and with the Braves announcing Minter has been dealing with some back tightness as well as a cut to his thumb, this situation could get dicier very quickly. Minter was awesome since the All-Star break prior to Saturdays outing, but if his back/thumb are an issue, Winkler will likely see more chances in the short term.
• Koda Glover is now closing for the Nationals but isn’t worth your time in most leagues with Kelvin Herrera likely due back this weekend. Kenley Jansen made a quicker than expected return to the Dodgers bullpen and should pick up where he left of prior to his DL stint.
• Jose Leclerc, Wade Davis, Ken Giles and Bud Norris led the week in saves with 3 apiece. Leclerc has been ridiculous over the past month (19/2 K/BB ratio!) and is really thriving in his role as the Rangers closer. It was an encouraging week from Davis as well, as it’s nice to see him get his ERA back under 5.