3 years agoSan Diego Padres closer Mark Melancon recorded just one out before suffering a walk-off loss Sunday against the Washington Nationals. Tabbed to preserve a tie game, the veteran right-hander struck out the first batter before permitting a single and hit batter. Second baseman Alcides Escobar then singled to send the crowd home happy. After appearing like an offseason steal early in 2021, Melancon has looked extremely hittable, carrying a 4.60 ERA since June. With the Friars in the market for bullpen help, Melancon's firm grip in the ninth is gradually loosening. In-house, while reliever Emilio Pagan has faded (3.72 ERA), a healthy Drew Pomeranz could start earning save opportunities. Melancon still owns a respectable 2.25 ERA and 1.20 WHIP with an MLB-leading 27 saves, but lacks the swing-and-miss stuff demanded from a door-slammer. Time will tell how long the Friars stick with the wily 36-year-old in his current role.--Andrew Le - RotoBaller
Source: MLB