PT TOMORROW: AL East—Casting call for BOS closer

Boston Red Sox

Despite reports that Jean Machi (RHP, BOS) would get the first chance to close games for the Red Sox in the absence of Koji Uehara (RHP, BOS), the first actual opportunity went to Junichi Tazawa (RHP, BOS), who promptly blew it (1 IP, 1 ER, 2 H). The performance continued a stretch in which Tazawa has been quite hittable (5 1/3 IP, 10 H, 5 ER in last five outings). Otherwise, Tazawa’s skills would seem to make him the team’s best option in the ninth inning, as detailed by Playing Time Today analyst Matt Dodge.

Machi's performance in a Red Sox uniform has been OK: 5 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 3 BB, 7 K. But, as Dodge noted, his larger body of work hardly screams "closer." The distance is growing between Machi and his 2013 Dom, and a 9%...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

With the return of Jake Burger and Evan Carter soon, the Rangers have a major platoon situation brewing.
Aug 12 2025 3:08am
Graham Pauley and the plucky Marlins try to keep riding the wave in Miami. Plus: Cacalli in WAS; Profar in ATL; Walker in PHI; SPs at NYM; more.
Aug 11 2025 3:08am
The best team in baseball is adding another arm with closing experience.
Aug 9 2025 3:07am
Bernabel should see regular playing time in COL; Thomas contributing in ARI; LA 2B update; rotation updates in SD; and a potential opportunity for Encarnación in SF
Aug 7 2025 3:10am
After the Red Sox did not acquire a first baseman at the trade deadline, could Kristian Campbell get another shot in the majors? Plus, two top prospects on the verge of promotions in Baltimore.
Aug 6 2025 3:05am

Tools