MLB Closers and Saves Update for June 4th

Your Latest News from the Back End of the Bullpen

We keep a close look on all the closers, saves and bullpen news and analysis twice a week so you can focus on the rest of your fantasy baseball teams.  Find all the information you need on the back end of MLB bullpens right here at RotoBaller.com, and be sure to check out our up-to-date MLB fantasy baseball closer and saves depth charts.

Detroit Tigers

Manager Brad Ausmus said he will not publicly address the closing situation without first speaking to the key players involved.  Incumbent closer Joe Nathan has allowed eight earned runs in his last three, totaling 1.1 innings; his ERA has consequently shot up to an ugly 6.86.

While Nathan is sinking, Joba Chamberlain has 10 straight scoreless innings, during which time he's allowed only three walks and seven hits over 9.2 innings.  Ausmus might give Nathan some rest and let him try again in a few days, or he could just give the job to Chamberlain outright.  Either way, grab Chamberlain now, if he is even still available.

New York Yankees

David Robertson had one of his worst outings on Sunday, giving up five ER in less than an inning; his ERA has jumped up to 4.26.  Despite this outing, Robertson still has a firm grip on the closer’s role.  Adam Warren struggled last night, giving up three ER, equaling his earned run total for the entire month of May.  Dellin Betances continues to impress, but manager Joe Girardi likes him in that late-inning relief role, where he has flourished.

Oakland Athletics

Set-up man Ryan Cook was activated from the disabled list and should return to the 7th-inning role.  He warmed up in the seventh last night, but was not used.

Identity Thieves

These are a few relievers who have a chance to steal the closer’s identity, or at least vulture a few saves in the short term:

Brad Ziegler - Addison Reed has pitched in three out of the last four days, and he could use a day of rest.

John Axford - Cody Allen has been a workhorse for the Indians recently, pitching on six of the last eight days.  It would be wise for Terry Francona to give him some rest.  With Bryan Shaw’s recent usage and lack of success, Axford might get that chance he has been looking for to close.

Be sure to also take a look at our MLB closers depth charts here.