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Catching up with some former Astros
Mark Melancon (USA Today Sports Images)
Melancon has had perhaps the best season among all of the former Astros. Mark has bounced back nicely from a 2012 season that he would like to forget. To say Melancon got out of the gates slowly in Boston would be an understatement. After an early season demotion to AAA, Mark posted a 6.20 ERA in 41 appearances with the Red Sox.
Melancon was traded to Pittsburgh over the winter and has re-established himself as a dependable reliever with the Pirates. Working as a setup man, Melancon earned a trip to this year’s All-Star Game. In the second half of the season Melancon has been filling in for injured closer and fellow All-Star Jason Grilli. Mark has converted 15 of 17 save opportunities and put up some incredible numbers. Melancon’s 1.09 ERA, 0.89 WHIP and 65/8 K/BB ratio in 66 1/3 innings could mean he will continue as the Pirates’ closer right into the postseason.