Sleeper Watch

More cheap saves: Jason Isringhausen is hurt once again, this time with a strained muscle that landed him on the 15-day disabled list. With Isringhausen, who was putting up very solid April numbers, on the shelf, Julian Tavarez will step in and handle the closing duties for the Cardinals (although Ray King may also see a save opportunity or two).

Whether you need to replace Isringhausen or simply want to snare a few saves on the cheap, Tavarez should be a solid pickup. With a 1.18 WHIP, a 2.38 ERA and seven wins last year, the righthander wasn’t a bad player to have on deeper roto rosters even as a middle reliever. Don’t be scared off by his 5.40 ERA so far this season. Most of that damage stems from the season’s first week; since then, Tavarez has allowed just one earned run in seven appearances. The key to his success is his improved control. After posting a dismal 0.91 K/BB ratio as a starter with Florida in 2002, he improved that value to 1.44 after being moved to the bullpen by Pittsburgh the following season, and to an impressive 2.53 in 2004, his first year with the Cardinals. So far this year, his K/BB rate stands at 2.75 (11 K, 4 BB in 11 IP).

Tavarez’ debut as St. Louis’ fireman was an auspicious one as the veteran fanned three Brewers, giving up just one hit in the process, to seal a 6-3 Cardinals victory. His stint as a closer presumably won’t last very long, but if you have a roster spot to spare, he’s well worth adding to your bullpen until Isringhausen returns.