39 Jason Grilli, RP

Pirates closer Jason Grilli was back on the mound Thursday against the Cubs after getting a day off Wednesday. He set the Cubs down in order for his 19th save of the season.

Grilli induced a fly ball out on the first batter he faced, and then set down the next two on strikes to preserve a 4-2 win. Grilli needed just 14 pitches to end his outing and lower his ERA to 1.25.

Grilli has a league-leading 19 saves in 19 appearances, to go along with his sterling ERA. He has struck out 34 batters and walked just five in 21 2/3 innings. 

Pirates closer Jason Grilli has been lights out all season, but he showed Tuesday he is, in fact, mortal. Grilli allowed one run on two hits and a walk to the Cubs, however he still earned the save, in a 5-4 win.

Grilli struck out one batter en route to his 18th save of the season, giving him the most in the National League. The run was just the third he has allowed all season, and second in 9 2/3 innings in the month of May.

Grilli has a 1.31 ERA in 20 2/3 innings of work, with 11 hits, five walks and 32 strikeouts. 

Pirates closer Jason Grilli recorded his 17th save with a clean inning Sunday against Houston.

Grilli appears poised to cruise into the All-Star game. He recorded his 31st strikeout in 19 2/3 innings Sunday and he owns an absurd 0.92 ERA with just nine hits and four walks allowed.

Pirates closer Jason Grilli is not available Thursday against the Brewers.

Grilli has pitched two-consecutive games, and will not be used a third-straight day. Setup man Mark Melancon is in the same situation, so manager Clint Hurdle will have to turn to another pitcher if the team needs to close out the game. Grilli has been fantastic this season, with 16 saves and a 1.02 ERA.

Pirates closer Jason Grilli entered Wednesday's contest against the Brewers in the ninth inning with a two-run lead. The right-hander needed 14 pitches to retire the side in order and secure a 3-1 win.

Grilli also struck out one while earning his 16th save.