PT TOMORROW: NL Central—Grilli losing grip on closer role?

Pittsburgh Pirates

Jason Grilli (RHP, PIT) saved 33 games a season ago, and it was his second straight season with elite skills. But given his age, inconsistent track record prior to 2012, and strong Plan B behind him, there was reason to be a little skeptical that he would duplicate last year's success. So far this season, Grilli has a pedestrian 1.8 Cmd, and has blown three of seven save opportunities, including his last two. He's still the closer for now, but his leash is probably shorter than it was a week ago.

Mark Melancon (RHP, PIT) is one of the highest skilled setup men in the league, and has some closing experience, having saved 16 games last year. He combines an extremely high ground ball rate with excellent and improving...

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

Abner Uribe has all the elements of a closer, but Trevor Megill is the pitcher with 51 saves since 2024. Plus more looks around the NL Central.
Feb 27 2026 3:06am
The White Sox might carry three catchers on their roster in 2026—how might that play out? Plus, a look at right-handed hitter options in CLE, the outlook for Jace Jung and Matt Vierling in DET, 6th SPs in KC, and backup SS options in MIN.
Feb 26 2026 3:09am
The Angels have a 4-way battle for closer in spring training.
Feb 25 2026 3:06am
Marcelo Mayer's chances of breaking camp with the Red Sox may not be as strong as previously thought. Plus, Okamoto's role in TOR, early spring standouts, and more from around the AL East.
Feb 24 2026 3:03am
The Mets metamorphosis has many moving parts, not least at the infield corners. Plus: Wheeler at PHI; House at WAS; C at ATL and MIA; more.
FREE
Feb 23 2026 8:45am

Tools