AL West: Yates settles in ... for now
May 2 2024
Kirby Yates has been very good since getting the chance to close out Rangers games starting on April 15: 7 IP, 2H, 0 ER, 2 BB, 9 K. That pitching has resulted in 1 win and 5 saves and he’s seemingly locked down the role as the Rangers’ stopper. But if anything, Yates’ vast history of injury and inconsistency makes us at least consider what alternatives manager Bruce Bochy could turn to should this run come to a close.
José Leclerc is always a possibility should the job re-open. After losing the closer job, Leclerc has pitched fairly well: 5 appearances, 6 IP, 2 H and 0 ER. He has issued 4 walks over that span, but 8 Ks as well. Granted, those outings have been lower leverage, but Leclerc is definitely in that “done...
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