Oakland Athletics Ryan Madson: The Closer to Own
By Bill Pivetz
Oakland’s closer situation seems to have changed before our very eyes. If you need to add a closer, pick up Ryan Madson.
The Oakland Athletics began the 2016 season with their bullpen set. Sean Doolittle was, and still is, listed as the team’s closer. However, that hasn’t been the case recently. Manager Bob Melvin has turned to Ryan Madson over the weekend. If you are in need of saves, he should be picked up immediately.
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Doolittle was drafted as the No. 26 closer in the 22nd round of standard ESPN leagues. Because of the lack of talent in the A’s lineup and rotation, the opportunity for saves would be few and far between. He had a good first outing, going one inning and allowed one hit while striking out one.
He recorded a loss in his next appearance, giving up one run on two hits in 0.2 innings. He bounced back and got a win and save in his next two outings. Things would go south again when he blew a save. Doolittle gave up two runs on two hits and a walk. As a result of his struggles, Ryan Madson was given a chance to close, and didn’t disappoint.
On April 12, he gave up two runs on three hits, but was able to record the hold. He then recorded three saves between Saturday and Tuesday. He gave up two hits and a walk while striking out two in that span. He recorded two saves earlier in the season and now has five on the year. He has a 2.25 ERA and 1.00 WHIP.
Ryan Madson recorded three saves last season, but it’s the first time since 2011 that he’s been a consistent closer option. Despite the hiccup last week, he’s been able to lock it in and take over ninth-inning duties. Fantasy owners are jumping on board, too.
He’s been added in 8.1 percent of leagues over the last week while Doolittle’s ownership percentage has dropped 14.1 percent.
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It seems obvious, but some fantasy owners don’t seem to get it. Saves can be found late in drafts, and even on the waiver wire. The No. 1 closer in drafts, Kenley Jansen has five saves, the same amount as Madson, who went undrafted. Craig Kimbrel only has four saves. While the offense and starting pitching plays a part, it’s up to closer to do the job he’s signed to do.
Ryan Madson is someone to add as he’s been getting the call in the ninth inning.