What It Means:

Mackanin noted the top options for the ninth inning at this point are Dalier Hinojosa and David Hernandez. Andrew Bailey had been mentioned as a possible option to close, but he's struggled a bit of late in Grapefruit League play after a strong start. Hernandez entered camp as the favorite for the job but fell behind due to triceps tendinitis. However, he's healthy now and has looked good the last few times out. He's probably the best bet over the long haul for saves in Philly.

Hernandez posted a 4.13 xFIP in 33 2/3 innings pitched for the Arizona Diamondbacks last season, and his 22.9 strikeout percentage was above the league average of 20.4 percent. We project him to record a 4.32 ERA and a 21.9 strikeout percentage in 2016. Hinojosa posted a 0.73 in 24 2/3 innings last season with the Boston Red Sox and the Phillies, but his xFIP of 4.34 was significantly higher. We project him to record a 3.08 ERA with a 22.7 strikeout percentage in 2016.