Bullpen
Craig Kimbrel – A+
In 2016 a Kimbrel appearance would result in a spike of Jack Daniels sales. The 5.1 BB/9 made comparisons to Heathcliff Slocumb possible, but Kimbrel still could not be hit with a .151 average against him. What a difference a year makes. The numbers are historic.
Joe Kelly – B
Great theater when he starts to go three digits on the speed gun. Kelly still has the wobbles as he continues to walk far too many with a 4.01 BB/9. Kelly’s 89 LOB% is third best in the American League. Danger point? Kelly’s FIP is close to two higher than his ERA.
Matt Barnes – C+
Who shows up? The Barnes with a 4.7 BB/9 or the Barnes that tosses a clutch 11 pitch three K performance? When on you have a guy that gives up very few hits (6.6 H/9).
The bad news is Hembree has a 10.9 H/9. The good news is a 1.7 BB/9. Like Barnes, he can bring the heat. ERA (3.65) and FIP (3.85) almost identical.
Robby Scott – B
Cost Robbie Ross his job. Classic lefty specialist with left-handed hitters batting an anemic .094 against Scott.
Fernando Abad – B
Surprise that Abad made the team, but has performed better than expected. Got a very rare three-inning save against Toronto. Very effective against lefties at .176.