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Most teams' bullpens are starting to take shape, meaning that you won't see many drastic changes unless there's an injury or an absolute implosion from the closer spot. There are, however, some nice waiver wire options in week 10 from the few teams still having issues late in games.
Hector Rondon and Pedro Strop (CHC)
Cubs closer Hector Rondon has had a decent season up to this point, with ten saves and a 3.09 ERA. In his most recent appearance however, he walked the first batter he faced, and then was immediately taken out by manager Joe Maddon in favor of Pedro Strop. Rondon has had some trouble recently, blowing two of his last four save chances.
Maddon didn’t explicitly say what Rondon’s role will be moving forward, but the fact that he didn’t give a strong vote of confidence makes me believe a change could be in order. Strop is a volatile pitcher but has strikeout potential, averaging more than one per inning over the course of his career. At only 7.2% owned in ESPN leagues, he is worth a look in deeper leagues. If Strop comes through in some big situations this week, we could see him get the bulk of the save chances moving forward.
Francisco Rodney and Carson Smith (SEA)
I’ve touched on Rodney in the past, but it may finally be time to just get rid of him while you can. Rodney has had an embarrassing stretch as the closer, giving up runs in seven of his last ten appearances. That absolutely cannot happen, and finally he has been removed from the closer role.
Carson Smith, whose had a great season, picked up the most recent save for the Mariners and may be in line for more. Smith has only allowed three runs in 25 innings this season and has 29 strikeouts to go along with it. Smith is 15.2% owned in ESPN leagues and is a great waiver wire target in all leagues.
Brett Cecil (TOR)
A very strange situation is occurring in Toronto, where Cecil hasn’t had a save opportunity in about a month. It really is a shame because after a rough start to the season, Cecil has righted the ship. In his last eight innings pitched, he’s given up only one run and come through with ten strikeouts. I think that Cecil owners should hold on to him and hope that this incredibly flukey stretch comes to an end. There are bound to be save opportunities moving forward and Cecil is definitely in the position to get the call. At only 28.5% owned in ESPN leagues, he is a sneaky waiver wire pickup this week.
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