How Guardians Plan To Use Newest Reliever
The Cleveland Guardians offseason was full of several minor moves instead of one major one. However, they did make one transaction early in the fall that may be going under the radar.
This was acquiring RHP Scott Barlow from the San Diego Padres in exchange for Enyel De Los Santos.
Barlow has experience pitching in a variety of situations and roles when he was with the Padres and Kansas City Royals. But where exactly will he fit with the Guardians? Stephen Vogt weighed in on this on Wednesday.
"Obviously, with Scott, we see a got who can throw leverage innings," said Vogt. "We see a guy with tons of closing experience and someone who can partner with [Emmanuel Clase] at the back end. So, Scott's going to throw some meaningful innings for us this year, and we're excited he's here."
A one-two punch of Clase and Barlow in the eighth and ninth innings is just about as good as it gets. However, Vogt does still leave the door open to have Barlow close out a few games here and there.
This is no knock on Clase at all. Cleveland's current closer has led the league games finished each of the last two seasons which could partially be the reason that he suffered from intensities last season. Sometimes, a pitcher just needs a break.
Aug 7, 2023; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres relief pitcher Scott Barlow (58) throws a pitch against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the sixth inning at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
© Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
Barlow allows Vogt to give Clase a night off while still feeling comfortable with the pitcher he has on the mound in a potential game-saving situation.
It's a win-win move for everyone and improves not only the immediate needs but will station the longevity of the bullpen throughout the season.
