Luke Gregerson (RP, OAK) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in Deeper Leagues

ANALYSIS: The Athletics announced yesterday that Jim Johnson has been removed from the closers role, as his early season struggles have caused concern.  At this point Oakland is saying they will use a closer by committee to replace him, but we are here chasing saves so let's take a look at the candidates. Luke Gregerson has been an elite setup man for years, owning a career stat line of 2.86 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, and 356 K in 352 IP. Based on his experience, being a righty, and his strong start to the season - Gregerson seems to have a strong chance at getting the first crack at save opportunities. Sean Doolittle has been great himself this year and over his career, but is a lefty, which normally means he won't assume the full-time closer's role. Ryan Cook is pitching in the 8th inning as we speak, with the Athletics up by 5 runs, so it certainly looks like Oakland is trying to ease him back into the mix as he was just activated from the DL on Monday. It would be surprising to see Cook used as the closer in the short term, but he may be the best long term fit if Johnson doesn't get the role back. For now, Gregerson is a solid flier in fantasy leagues and can be added off the waiver wire for those looking for saves.