Ben Joyce Unleashes 100+ MPH Heat for First Save
Joyce Shines in Return from Surgery, Emerging as Angels’ Future Closer
What Happened in Wednesday’s Game?
In a 5-2 win over the Texas Rangers, relief pitcher Joyce came in and did exactly what his team needed:
- Threw a perfect inning (no runners reached base)
- Struck out one batter
- Earned the save (finished the game to secure the win)
Important Point: A "save" happens when a relief pitcher finishes a game for the winning team under certain conditions—usually entering with a lead of 3 runs or fewer and pitching at least one inning without blowing the lead.
The Bigger Picture: Joyce’s Comeback Story
This wasn’t just a good outing—it was another strong sign that Joyce is fully healthy and ready for a major role. Here’s the timeline:
1. The Injury
Joyce missed significant time recovering from right shoulder surgery. Shoulder injuries are especially tricky for pitchers because the shoulder is the engine behind every throw.
2. The Return
Since coming back, Joyce has made 4 big-league appearances. In those games, his stat line looks like a video game highlight reel:
| Stat | Total |
|---|---|
| Innings Pitched | 4 |
| Runs Allowed | 0 |
| Hits Allowed | 1 |
| Walks Allowed | 1 |
| Strikeouts | 4 |
| Saves | 1 |
| Holds | 1 |
Quick Definitions:
- Hold: A reliever enters in a save situation, records at least one out, and leaves without giving up the lead—but doesn’t finish the game.
- Scoreless Innings: Innings where the other team scores zero runs.
Why Fantasy Managers Should Pay Attention
Even though the Los Angeles Angels are in last place (meaning they won’t win many games, so save chances will be limited), Joyce has tantalizing strikeout upside.
What "Strikeout Upside" Means for You
- More strikeouts = more fantasy points in most leagues
- High strikeout rates often signal a pitcher who can dominate, even on a bad team
- If he becomes the full-time closer, he’ll get the chance for saves—even if the team doesn’t create many
Important Point: On a bad team, closers often get fewer save opportunities because the team loses more games. But when the Angels do win, Joyce looks like the guy they’ll trust at the end.
What’s Next for Joyce?
Experts believe Joyce will emerge as the favorite to close games for the Angels long-term. Here’s why:
- He’s healthy – 4 scoreless innings post-surgery is a great sign
- He misses bats – 4 strikeouts in 4 innings = 9 K/9 (strikeouts per 9 innings), which is elite
- He throws strikes – Only 1 walk in 4 innings shows good control
- The job is open – The Angels don’t have a locked-in closer right now
Summary
- Joyce earned a save Wednesday with a perfect, 1-strikeout inning vs. the Rangers
- 4 appearances since shoulder surgery – 4 IP, 0 runs, 1 hit, 1 walk, 4 Ks
- Looking like the future closer for the Angels
- High fantasy upside thanks to strikeout ability—even on a last-place team
- Caveat: Save chances will be limited because the Angels don’t win often
FAQ
Who is Joyce?
Joyce is a relief pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels. He recently returned from right shoulder surgery and has looked dominant in his first few games back.
What is a "save" in baseball?
A save is awarded to a relief pitcher who finishes a game for the winning team, typically entering with a lead of 3 runs or fewer and pitching at least one inning without losing the lead.
Why does it matter that the Angels are in last place?
Teams that lose a lot don’t create many save situations—you can’t save a game you’re losing. So even a great closer on a bad team gets fewer chances to rack up saves.
What is "strikeout upside"?
It means a pitcher has the ability to strike out a lot of batters. In fantasy baseball, strikeouts are valuable points, so pitchers who miss bats are highly sought after.
Should I pick up Joyce in my fantasy league?
If you need saves and can be patient—yes. He has the stuff to be a high-strikeout closer, but the Angels’ record will limit his total save count. Great for deep leagues or as a high-upside stash.