Putz still the closer in Arizona: J.J. Putz blew his third save of the season for the Diamondbacks on Tuesday night against the Dodgers but manager Kirk Gibson said Wednesday that the right-hander will remain the team's closer. “Oh, yeah. No question," Gibson told the Arizona Republic. "I just think he’s the guy. He’s our closer. Nothing has changed. Simple as that.” Putz has a 9.82 ERA in eight appearances in May. (Updated 05/23/2012)
Injury Report
No information available at this time (Updated 5/25/12).
Fantasy Analysis
After posting an ERA under 3.00 over the last two seasons, Putz has a 7.20 mark so far in 2012 while going 9 for 12 in save chances. He also has 17 strikeouts compared to just three walks in 15 innings pitched but his 20 hits allowed -- including four homers -- have caused the damage. The Diamondbacks will continue to roll with the 35-year-old for the time being so continue to view Putz as a viable option in deeper mixed leagues. David Hernandez could step into the closer's role if Putz continues to struggle, however. (Updated 05/23/2012).
05/23/2012 01:40 De Jesus clutch in ninth, Dodgers win
Ivan De Jesus hit a two-run double with two outs in the ninth to give the Dodgers the lead and Dee Gordon went airborne to turn a game-ending double play as the Los Angeles Dodgers rallied past the Arizona Diamondbacks 8-7 on Tuesday night.
05/23/2012 00:59 The Lineup: Wainwright wows, Cubs crater
St. Louis got reacquainted with an old friend, the Cubs reached new depths, and a certain Met and a certain Brave enjoyed career nights. Oh, and get ready for Cole and Bryce, Part II.
05/17/2012 19:58 D-Backs win on Upton's blast in ninth
Justin Upton hit a two-out, two-run homer off closer Rafael Betancourt in the ninth inning to help the Arizona Diamondbacks beat the Colorado Rockies 9-7 on Thursday in a game that was briefly delayed by a swarm of bees.
05/09/2012 12:27 Dear Mr. Fantasy: New world order for closers
The relief pitching landscape sure has changed on a dime since opening day. Who are the right replacements to target? Our Scott White re-ranks his top closer options and answers your questions in Dear Mr. Fantasy.
After a couple of injury-plagued seasons and a year of purgatory as the White Sox's set-up man, J.J. Putz reemerged as a quality closer in 2011, converting 45 of 49 save opportunities with the Diamondbacks. The Michigan native was back in prime form, striking out more than a batter per inning while walking only 12 hitters over his 58 innings. While Putz was one of the most productive relievers in Fantasy, he reminded owners of his vulnerability, as he missed nearly all of July with elbow tendinitis. There should be few questions about Putz's ability to shut down hitters, but his persistent elbow problems could put a damper on expectations come Draft Day. Putz could perform like an elite closer when he is healthy, but injury concerns should keep him from being one of first closers taken. (Updated 2/21/12)
Actual 
AccuScore Projections) Note: Points are rounded down.
= probable start