The Reverse Closer: A Next Step in Specializing Pitchers

Shawn Kelley, New York Yankees

David Robertson and Dellin Betances have been a rock-solid 1-2 punch at the end of games, especially with Robertson’s 22-save streak that ended late last month. As a result, Shawn Kelley hasn’t been as big of a factor as he can be. Kelley has played closer six times this season, blowing two of the leads, and is fourth on the team in holds. His 4.24 ERA is a little bit of a problem, but his 2.54 FIP shows that he has been an effective pitcher for the Yanks.

Kelley’s 3.32 K/BB displays that he’s a competitor, with his decent 1.22 WHIP on top of that. His 12.2 K/9 might be his most impressive stat on his line and show that he can shut down the tough batters in the early goings.