Santiago Casilla lost his job as the San Francisco Giants’ closer after blowing a league leading nine saves in 2016. That might have something to do with manager Bruce Bochy’s decision not to turn to the 13-year-veteran during last night’s disastrous ninth-inning meltdown, when five Giants relievers combined to spoil a 5-1 lead, handing the series to the Chicago Cubs in the process.
According to the San Jose Mercury News, Casilla was distraught after the game, feeling that he could’ve helped stop the bleeding if called upon last night, and wept as he expressed disappointment for not being given a chance in what may be his last game in a Giants uniform.
“I never had that moment before during five years here,” Casilla told the San Jose Mercury News. “I had a little struggle. But everybody [in the bullpen] has had their bad moments. I think they forgot all the great moments I’ve had here. I’ve pitched a lot in the playoffs and done my job. I know I am a good pitcher.”
Despite Casilla’s struggles this season, he’s been a valuable member of the Giants bullpen since their first World Series title in 2010, and has a lights-out postseason resume, posting a 0.92 ERA in 25 appearances.
“I’m a pitcher. I’m part of the bullpen. I know I have had some bad moments in September and during the season, but I have good numbers in the playoffs and I know I can pitch in that situation. “I know I can pitch in the big leagues.”
Derek Law, Javier Lopez and Sergio Romo were each tagged with an earned run in the ninth inning, each facing a single batter and each not being able to record a single out. Will Smith was credited with the blown save when Willson Contreras hit a two-run single to center tying the game at 5-5, and Hunter Strickland gave up the lead on a Javier Baez RBI single.
Casilla is a free agent this offseason.