PT TOMORROW: NL Central—Grilli losing grip on closer role?

Pittsburgh Pirates

Jason Grilli (RHP, PIT) saved 33 games a season ago, and it was his second straight season with elite skills. But given his age, inconsistent track record prior to 2012, and strong Plan B behind him, there was reason to be a little skeptical that he would duplicate last year's success. So far this season, Grilli has a pedestrian 1.8 Cmd, and has blown three of seven save opportunities, including his last two. He's still the closer for now, but his leash is probably shorter than it was a week ago.

Mark Melancon (RHP, PIT) is one of the highest skilled setup men in the league, and has some closing experience, having saved 16 games last year. He combines an extremely high ground ball rate with excellent and improving...

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