PT TOMORROW: AL Central—How secure is Axford’s status as closer?
Apr 22 2014
John Axford (RHP, CLE) had six saves in his first seven chances, but the numbers behind his performance raise a red flag. In his first 8 IP his xERA was 5.39. He had a 1.3 Cmd resulting from a K:BB ratio of 9:7. His BPV was -22. Eight innings is a small sample size, but major league managers make decisions about closers on small sample sizes. Axford lost his job last April with the Brewers and his underlying BPIs were actually better than they have been so far this year. The Indians have a strong alternative to Axford in Cody Allen (RHP, CLE). Allen has posted a 146 BPV in his first 8 IP (10 appearances) on the strength of a 12:4 K:BB ratio. This is no fluke. Last year Allen put up a 121 BPV for the season. He had an...
Almost!
You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!
Already a subscriber? Sign in here
More From PT Tomorrow
This week, we check in on young infielders with upside in S.F. and Arizona, are reintroduced to an old NL West friend in L.A.
Aug 29 2026 3:05am
Aug 29 2026 3:05am
Luke Adams, Cooper Hjerpe, Owen Ayers, and BJ Murray may be among the guys called up to make their MLB debut in the NL Central
Aug 28 2026 3:05am
Aug 28 2026 3:05am
Angel Genao has been getting plenty of playing time in Cleveland, often at the expense of Brayan Rocchio. Plus, the possible return of Drew Thorpe for CHW, the bullpen outlook in DET, Sal Perez's 2H rebound, and Joe Ryan's recovery in MIN.
Aug 27 2026 3:06am
Aug 27 2026 3:06am
The A's have been depleted by injuries, but are getting some needed outfield help soon.
Aug 26 2026 3:05am
Aug 26 2026 3:05am
Could George Springer's playing time continue to slip as his struggles continue? Plus, Blaze Alexander nearing a return for BAL, and rotation updates for TB, BOS, and NYY.
Aug 25 2026 3:05am
Aug 25 2026 3:05am
