Since returning from a bout with Covid-19, things have been a bit rocky for Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman. In his first 5 outings, the flamethrowing lefty has an ERA of 9.00 and a WHIP of 1.75 while blowing 2 saves and picking up a loss. His stuff looks fine for the most part, so what’s been the problem?
As Yoan Moncada just pointed out yesterday, his “body hasn’t felt the same after the virus”, which is an important reminder that this virus can still affect players even after they have recovered. I’m not saying this is the reason for Chapmans struggles, but I think we need to take into consideration that, for one reason or another, a player returning from Covid may still not be at 100% for a while.
Notes
- Zack Britton returned to the Yankees bullpen on Tuesday and while he’s quickly picked up 2 holds, the results on the mound have been mixed. I was originally planning on him being near the end of tier 2, but after last nights 3 hit, 1 walk, 2 ER outing, I pushed him down a little bit in case there are still some lasting effects from that groin injury.
- Nick Wittgren hit a bit of a rough patch in the early/middle part of August, but has allowed just 4 baserunners over his past 7 outings. Even with James Karinchak and Brad Hand dominating the latter innings, expect Wittgren to see plenty of hold chances the rest of the way.
- While Will Smith hasn’t quite made the impact the Braves were hoping for, Chris Martin and Shane Greene have been great this season. Over 28 combined innings, the two have allowed just 3 runs while walking only 5 batters.
- Two relievers, Mark Melancon and Ryan Pressly, had 3 SV+HD’s this past week. Melancon in particular had a great week, not allowing a baserunner in his 3 outings while striking out 3. He may not generate swings and misses at a high rate, but the groundball specialist has been highly effective ever since the second half of last season.
Photo by Gregory Fisher/Icon Sportswire | Adapted by Justin Paradis (@freshmeatcomm on Twitter)
