Impact Joyce has collected two saves over his last five appearances, though he's also allowed three runs across five innings in that span. The flamethrower threw all five of his fastballs between 102-104 mph Friday and needed just 14 total pitches (10 strikes) to get his five outs. With a lack of save opportunities, it's tough to tell who has the lead in the Angels' closer committee. Hunter Strickland was initially given a chance to close but blew two saves to begin August, while Joyce (two) and Roansy Contreras (one) have since taken care of business when given the chance. Joyce still needs to work on control -- he has a 2.54 ERA, but his 1.27 WHIP and 24:14 K:BB through 28.1 innings shows he hasn't yet fully harnessed his velocity. Joyce should be a fixture in the late innings over the final six weeks of the season even if he doesn't emerge as a full-time closer.
AUGUST 17 • ROTOWIRE
