Mark Melancon (RP, PIT) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add Immediately

ANALYSIS: Racking up saves is 50% opportunity and 50% talent. Mark Melancon has always had the talent, and he's about to get his 2nd 2014 opportunity. After racking up 10 saves while Grilli landed on the DL, Melancon had been relegated to setup duties. All he did over his last 10 outings was throw 9.1 IP with an 11:1 K:BB ratio and 1 run allowed.  His 1.89 ERA, .78 WHIP and 1 HR allowed in 33.1 IP are as dominant as any closer out there.  So we know he's got the talent.  As for the opportunity, he has it now: Grilli allowed runs in 3 of his last 4 appearances, including 2 HR over his last two outings that have led to a loss and a blown save. More importantly, after showing some resurgent strikeout ability upon his return from the DL, Grilli hadn't K'd a single batter in his last 6 appearances. He can't put hitters away, and a closer who can't put hitters away isn't really a closer at all. In the words of the great Hawk Harrelson, "HE GONE!". Melancon will be closing games for the Bucs and is an immediate waiver wire pickup in all leagues.