Balf saves again

Grant Balfour is back in business after a small slip before the All Star break. He recorded his fourth save of the season today against the Toronto Blue Jays. Balf came in to the top of the 8th with 2 out, and a runner on 3, with the Rays clinging to a 2-1 lead. He got behind early, going to 3-0 against Alex Rios, but bounced back to strike him out swinging. He came out again in the top of the 9th and retired the side in order, with 2 strikeouts and 1 popout to third. He ended the day with the tidy figures of 1.1 inning pitched, 3 strikouts, no hits, no walks.

There are a couple of interesting articles about Balfour online at the moment. Tampa Bay Online reflects on Balf being DFA'd after spring training, and also considers what role he may play if and when the Rays' regular closer Troy Percival is healthy again. And if you are into fantasy baseball, or just want a slightly amusing take on Balfour as an Aussie, check out today's Closing Time from Yahoo fantasy baseball.