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Hawks prep for six-game road 'test'
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By Rob Steingall
CSNChicago.com
Frank Francisco, Mets:
After a few hiccups in the early stages of May, Francisco has been rock solid,
converting his last five save chances without giving up a run. On the
season, he's 14-for-16, which is certainly effective. The Mets aren't an
offensive juggernaut
and will be in their share of close games, which should allow Francisco
to have a plenty of opportunities to pick up saves for the remainder of
the year.
Addison Reed, White Sox: There are always growing pains from rookies who
are thrust into ninth inning duty, but Reed has handled his first few
weeks as the White Sox closer exceptionally well. He's a perfect 7-for-7
in save chances, and he's striking out over
a batter per inning. While he doesn't have name value just yet, that
doesn't mean he can't net you a hefty profit the remainder of the
season.
Ernesto Frieri, Angels: Outside of the Reds' Aroldis Chapman, I don't
think there has been a more dominant reliever in the majors than Frieri.
His numbers are extraordinary (26 IP, 1.04 ERA, 48/15 K/BB), and now
he's picking up saves. He's good enough to lock
down this job and be one of the most dominant closers in the American
League.
Alfredo Aceves, Red Sox: The nice thing about Aceves is that manager
Bobby Valentine has no problem calling on him for multiple inning saves,
allowing him to collect more strikeouts and help your ratios. He picked
up two saves last week, and has a secure hold
on the ninth inning gig.
Hisashi Iwakuma, Mariners: With the saves landscape constantly changing,
you need to chase every last handshake, which brings us to Iwakuma. He
closed out two games last week, and while the Mariners bullpen situation
is in a state of flux, you have to go with
the hot hand.
