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MLB: Relief Pitchers Who Could Close if Given the Chance

By Greg Goldstein

Aug 5, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Brad Brach (35) throws against the Chicago White Sox during the seventh inning at U.S. Cellular Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 5, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Brad Brach (35) throws against the Chicago White Sox during the seventh inning at U.S. Cellular Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports /
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RHP Raisel Iglesias (Cincinnati Reds)

Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports /

2016 Stats: 2.13 ERA/9.8 SO9/3.0 BB9/0.9 HR9/3.29 FIP/1.137 WHIP/2.5 WAR

With so much uncertainty regarding Anthony DeSclafani and his injuries, the Cincinnati Reds turned to Raisel Iglesias to start the first game of the 2016 season. A former international signee from Cuba, Iglesias got his first taste of the MLB last season, when he pitched to a 4.15 ERA in 18 appearances, 16 of which were starts. And while his numbers were not eye-popping, the 26 year-old did flash some of his potential during his Major League debut.

This potential gave manager Bryan Price even reason to turn to the young right hander for the start on opening day. The experiment was a success early on as Iglesias allowed a total of three runs in his first couple outings. However, things turned sour quickly for him.

After only getting through the sixth inning in one start since opening day, the Reds sent him to the disabled list for the entire month of May and almost all of June. When he did return on June 21, Iglesias was no longer a starter, he was tasked with pitching out of the bullpen.

This has looked like the right move for a pitcher that may not be meant to provide the stamina and stability that a quality starting pitcher is supposed to provide when he could be an elite reliever. Iglesias has looked elite, allowing just four runs over 20 appearances, many of which were multiple innings per game.

Iglesias can throw his fastball in the mid 90s, especially now that he is coming into the game as a reliever. His slider is probably his best pitch as he usually throws it in late in counts to put hitters away. He also throws from a lower angle, which seems more reputable when he is only throwing a few innings in every appearance.

He may be new to the relief pitching role, but it looks like he may have found his role in the MLB. He strikes out even hitters, he has been very productive in his short time in the bullpen and he may just unseat Tony Cingrani as the man late in the game.

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