The Closer Report: July 3, 2009

Saves: 8

Save Opportunities: 8

Frank Francisco gets first save since June 3rd, while Broxton gets his 20th save.
By Todd Farino, www.thecloserreport.com

Frank Francisco finally got his lucky thirteenth save and believe it or not, only needed 13 pitches to dispose of the Rays. He struck out one and looked very sharp tonight. A far cry from his last appearance.

Mariano Rivera is absolutely on fire since June 16. He got his 21st save of the season beating the Blue Jays 4-2. He struck out two and his WHIP has dropped down to 0.92 and his ERA (2.67) is at its lowest point since June fourth.

Today was Rafael Soriano's turn to get the save for the Braves. Mike Gonzalez came in the eighth inning and looked great striking out the side, but I can't say the same for Soriano. He was all over the place Friday night, starting the inning with back-to-back walks. Before it was all over he gave up two runs, but held on for his eight save.

Ryan Franklin continues to get results with his 20th save of the season, but made it exciting for his owners. He walked the bases loaded before finally getting the final out. He had a calming 3-run lead and surprisingly he got a pair of strike outs. He now has 21 strikeouts on the season.

Jonathan Broxton finally joined the 20-something group of closers. His 20th save was outstanding as he struck out two batters and only needed ten pitches for the save. When Broxton pitches like this, which is most of the time, he is by far the most dominating closer in baseball.

Other Appearances:

Mark Lowe (1)- Got the save because David Aardsma was resting.

George Sherrill (18) - Another clean and easy save for Sherrill. He is on pace for 37 right now.

Scott Linebrink (2) - Pitched 1.2 innings to earn his second save of the season.
Kevin Gregg - Pitched two innings for the win. He continues to get better and stronger.

Joe Nathan - Struck out two in an inning of a tied game.

Fernando Rodney - Pitched two perfect innings in a tie game.