James Karinchak
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2021Antiques3400033046.13322215434.27
2022Lightning00000000.0000000.00
2023Lightning3100023038.1189134032.11
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Mar 29 2024The Guardians placed Karinchak on the 60-day injured list Thursday with right shoulder inflammation. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: According to MLB.com, Karinchak reported to camp dealing with right shoulder fatigue, but he made enough progress to get clearance to begin a throwing program March 11. The Guardians' decision to have Karinchak open the season on the 60-day IL perhaps signals that his throwing sessions aren't going as well as hoped, as he won't be eligible to make his 2024 debut until late May. Karinchak will likely continue to build back up at the Guardians' spring training facility in Arizona over the next few weeks before potentially heading out on a minor-league rehab assignment.
Mar 11 2024Karinchak (shoulder) has been cleared to begin a throwing progression Monday, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak had been shut down from throwing all spring after he had been experiencing right shoulder fatigue prior to reporting to camp. Since he's projected to serve as a one-inning reliever for Cleveland once healthy, Karinchak won't require as extensive of a ramp-up program as a starting pitcher, but with Opening Day approximately two and a half weeks away, the right-hander may not be ready to go by the time the Guardians open the regular season. Provided that he navigates his throwing program free of setbacks, Karinchak should be in store for only a brief stint on the IL to begin the season if the Guardians opt not to include him on the Opening Day roster.
Feb 16 2024Karinchak is behind schedule due to right shoulder fatigue, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak came into camp with the issue and will be held out of workouts for a few days. The hope is that he can resume throwing before long and that this will wind up being just a little bump in the road.
Jan 11 2024Karinchak signed a one-year, $1.9 million contract with the Guardians on Thursday to avoid arbitration, Paul Hoynes of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak walked 28 batters across 39 innings in 2023, but he still managed a solid 3.23 ERA with 52 strikeouts. While Emmanuel Clase is almost certainly locked into the closer role in Cleveland, Karinchak could be a decent source of holds.
Sep 27 2023Karinchak (2-5) allowed a run on two hits and struck out one over two-thirds of an inning to take the loss Tuesday versus the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak had posted 3.2 scoreless innings over his first four appearances back in the majors before faltering in the fifth inning Tuesday. The right-hander is now at a 3.29 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 52:25 K:BB with 13 holds and two blown saves over 38.1 innings this season. Karinchak is mostly seeing low-leverage work to finish the campaign.
Sep 18 2023Karinchak was recalled from Triple-A Columbus on Monday, Zack Meisel of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak holds a 3.44 ERA with 46 strikeouts over 34 innings with the Guardians this season, though he's also walked 23 batters. He'll probably be used in middle relief over the final two weeks of the season.
Sep 2 2023Karinchak was optioned to Triple-A Columbus on Saturday, Zack Meisel of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Lucas Giolito will take Karinchak's place on the active roster. Karinchak had a 1.42 ERA, 1.42 WHIP and eight strikeouts in 6.1 innings over six appearances since being recalled Aug. 18.
Aug 17 2023Karinchak is expected to be recalled Friday from Triple-A Columbus, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak has struggled to a 5.12 ERA in 19.1 innings at the Triple-A level since the Guardians demoted him in early June, but he's needed as a replacement for Michael Kelly (back), who will head to the 15-day injured list in a corresponding move.
Jun 10 2023Karinchak was optioned to Triple-A Columbus on Saturday, Zack Meisel of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak's 32 appearances are tied for the league lead, and while he hasn't been as dominant this season, his 3.90 ERA is still a solid mark. He does have a career-high 16.1 percent walk rate, however, and while his 32.2 percent strikeout rate would be high for most pitchers, it's a career low in his case. His demotion may not be performance-related, however, as the Guardians may simply be looking to bring in some fresh arms. Karinchak has options remaining and has pitched on five of the last seven days, so he was unlikely to be an option for the next game or two. Tim Herrin was called up to take his place in the bullpen.
Jun 5 2023Karinchak (2-4) earned the win over the Twins on Sunday after tossing a scoreless sixth inning. He allowed a hit and struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak was the first name called out of the bullpen after Triston McKenzie's day was done following five dominant frames. He allowed a leadoff single but was able to get through the inning unscathed. The 29-year-old has not allowed a run over his last seven outings and has picked up two holds and a win over that span. For the year, Karinchak owns a 3.86 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, 36:16 K:BB and has 11 holds over 25.2 innings.
May 15 2023Karinchak (1-4) retired the only batter he faced to earn the win Sunday over the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Angels tied the game at 1-1 in the eighth inning when Gio Urshela hit into a fielder's choice against Tanner Bibee. Karinchak then stepped in and got Mike Trout to fly out as a pinch hitter to end the inning before Cleveland pulled ahead for good on Josh Naylor's three-run home run in the bottom half of the frame. Karinchak has strung together five scoreless appearances spanning 3.1 innings. It's been a rocky start to 2023 for the right-handed reliever, who has a 4.82 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 25:12 K:BB with nine holds and a blown save over 18.2 innings.
May 3 2023Karinchak (0-4) allowed a run on two hits and a walk with one strikeout in 1.1 innings, taking the loss and a blown save Tuesday versus the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak relieved starter Tanner Bibee with one out in the sixth inning and promptly allowed an inherited runner to score on Anthony Rizzo's single. Willie Calhoun added a one-out solo home run in the seventh, putting the Yankees ahead and saddling Karinchak with his fourth loss in 16 appearances. The right-handed reliever has given up six runs over 7.1 innings in his last seven appearances, and he now has a poor 5.87 ERA, 1.24 WHIP and 19:7 K:BB through 15.1 innings overall. To make matters worse, Karinchak's got a 6.89 FIP and .212 BABIP, which suggests that he's not a victim of bad luck here. He may be at risk of losing a high-leverage role once Sam Hentges (shoulder) is ready to return.
Apr 5 2023Karinchak (0-2) allowed a run on a hit and a walk with one strikeout over two-thirds of an inning, taking the loss against the Athletics on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's been a less-than-stellar start to the season for Karinchak, who has racked up two losses and two holds through four appearances. He walked the leadoff batter in the ninth inning Tuesday, then allowed a walkoff single to Tony Kemp after getting two outs. Karinchak has had some issues with walks, posting a 5:3 K:BB over three innings so far. The Guardians' bullpen has been a strength dating back to last season, so Karinchak could move down the hierarchy if he can't get his early struggles under control quickly.
Mar 31 2023Karinchak (0-1) allowed three runs on a hit, a walk and a hit batsman in one-third of an inning, taking the loss Thursday versus the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak was rattled early by a pitch-clock violation, and he then plunked Kolten Wong before Ty France took him deep in the eighth inning. After an uneven spring that saw Karinchak post a 12:5 K:BB and a 4.66 ERA over 9.2 innings, it's a little concerning to see him struggle in a high-leverage situation. The right-hander had a 2.08 ERA over 39 innings last season, but he also carried a 4.8 BB/9, which is something he'll need to get in check to continue to have success as a setup man. With the Guardians locking up Trevor Stephan on a four-year deal Wednesday, Karinchak's place as a setup man is far from guaranteed.
Feb 27 2023Karinchak allowed two runs on two hits and a walk with two strikeouts over one inning in Sunday's Cactus League loss to the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak enters 2023 after a sharp second half of the 2022 season. After recovering from a shoulder injury, the right-hander logged a 2.08 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, three saves, eight holds and 62 strikeouts over 39 innings. He is poised to again serve as a setup man to closer Emmanuel Clase, though Karinchak will need to clean up his early spring struggles to avoid losing his grip on a high-leverage role.
Sep 29 2022Karinchak (2-0) struck out the side to earn the extra-inning win over the Rays on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak needed 15 pitches (10 strikes) to keep the game tied at 1-1 in the 10th inning, and Amed Rosario delivered a walkoff single in the bottom half of the frame. Over his last six innings, Karinchak has a 9:1 K:BB and he's allowed only two hits without surrendering a run. The righty owns a 1.45 ERA, 1.02 WHIP and 59:19 K:BB with three saves, eight holds and a blown save through 37.1 innings this year.
Sep 14 2022Karinchak allowed one hit and struck out one across a scoreless ninth inning to earn the save Wednesday against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak was called upon to protect a two-run lead and did so successfully to earn his third save of the season. He won't see save opportunities regularly going forward, but Emmanuel Clase had worked two consecutive days and was likely unavailable. Karinchak owns an impressive 1.47 ERA and 49:18 K:BB across 30.2 innings for the season.
Sep 11 2022Karinchak picked up the save in Sunday's 4-1 win over the Twins. He struck out three in one scoreless inning with two walks and no hits allowed. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Emmanuel Clase unavailable after recording the save in each of the previous two games, Karinchak stepped in and shut the door for his second save. The 26-year-old allowed two runners to reach base via the walk, but he struck out the other three batters he faced, giving him 47 punchouts in just 28.2 innings. Karinchak owns a strong 1.57 ERA to go along with a 1.15 WHIP on the season.
Sep 7 2022Karinchak struck out two in a perfect inning to earn the save in Tuesday's 4-1 win over the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Regular closer Emmanuel Clase had pitched three straight days, so he was presumably unavailable Tuesday. Karinchak stepped up and needed just 12 pitches (eight strikes) to deliver his first save of the season. He had a rough return to the majors with three runs allowed in his first two appearances, but Karinchak has since rattled off a 24-inning scoreless streak with a save, four holds and a win in his last 22 outings. For the year, he has a 1.04 ERA, 0.96 WHIP and 43:13 K:BB through 26 innings while reclaiming a setup role in a strong Guardians bullpen.
Aug 15 2022Karinchak was reinstated from the restricted list Monday, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak will return to the team after missing the three-game series versus the Blue Jays while on the restricted list. The reliever has produced a 1.72 ERA and 1.02 WHIP with 28 strikeouts over 15.2 innings in 14 appearances since joining the big-league roster July 3.
Aug 12 2022Karinchak was placed on the restricted list Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak is unvaccinated and will be unable to travel with the Guardians for their weekend series in Toronto. The right-hander should rejoin the team ahead of Monday's series opener against the Tigers, while Peyton Battenfield's contract was selected to provide additional bullpen depth this weekend.
Jul 25 2022Karinchak struck out four in 1.2 perfect innings during Monday's 3-1 loss to the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak gave up three runs in his first two innings this season, but he's since settled down with 6.2 consecutive scoreless frames. Overall, he's pitched to a 3.12 ERA, 1.15 WHIP and 16:4 K:BB in 8.2 innings, though he's pitched in a low-leverage role. The dominance of Emmanuel Clase essentially rules out any chance of closing duties, but continued success could earn Karinchak more of a look as a setup man later in the year.
Jul 3 2022Karinchak was recalled from Triple-A Columbus on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A few short years ago, Karinchak was one of the hottest young relievers in the game. He fell apart in 2021, with Karinchak's downward trajectory coinciding with MLB's sticky-stuff crackdown. The hard-throwing righty has not pitched well at all with Columbus this year (5.73 ERA, 1.91 WHIP), but the Guardians need a fresh arm, so they will give Karinchak a look in the majors for the first time this season.
Jul 2 2022Karinchak (shoulder) was reinstated from the 60-day injured list and optioned to Triple-A Columbus on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak has been dealing with a shoulder strain since spring training but has been pitching in Columbus over the last month. He posted a 5.73 ERA and 1.91 WHIP in 11 innings over 12 relief appearances during his rehab assignment and will remain in the minors now that he's deemed fully healthy. If he joins the Guardians at some point, he should be in the mix for setup duties.
Jun 1 2022Karinchak (shoulder) will begin a rehab assignment at Triple-A Columbus on Wednesday, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak dealt with arm stiffness late in spring training and was shut down from throwing to begin the regular season after being diagnosed with a shoulder strain. The right-hander isn't eligible to return until next week since he's on the 60-day injured list, but his rehab assignment should be the final step in his recovery process. Karinchak converted 11 of 16 save chances last year but will likely work in a setup role for the Guardians once he's healthy since Emmanuel Clase has performed well as the team's closer in 2022.
May 16 2022Karinchak (shoulder) was transferred to the 60-day injured list Monday, Zack Meisel of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karnichak has been out all year with a strained shoulder. He remains without a clear timetable but will now be ineligible to return before early June. The move clears a 40-man roster spot for Yohan Ramirez, who was acquired in a trade with the Mariners on Monday.
Apr 24 2022Karinchak (shoulder) is expected to progress to bullpen work this weekend, Tom Withers of the Associated Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak was shut down from throwing in spring training, but Withers reports the reliever has thrown from 250 feet on flat ground without pain. He's still got a few more steps to go before potentially returning to the Guardians, and it's unclear at this time if the 26-year-old will require a rehab assignment.
Apr 2 2022Karinchak (shoulder) will begin the season on the injured list, Zack Meisel of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak is currently shut down from throwing as he recovers from a teres muscle strain in his right shoulder. He should resume throwing soon but presumably won't be ready for game action right away. His poor season last year and Emmanuel Clase's emergence put some distance between Karinchak and the closer role, though a bounce-back performance should at least position him to be one of the top options if Clase gets hurt.
Mar 26 2022Karinchak (shoulder) is likely to start the season on the injured list, Zack Meisel of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak was reportedly dealing with arm stiffness to begin spring training, though the injury has since been clarified as a right teres muscle strain. Regardless, he has now been shut down from throwing for an additional 7-to-10 days. Karinchak's status should only further cement Emmanuel Clase's role as Cleveland's closer.
Mar 22 2022Karinchak was scratched from his scheduled relief appearance in Tuesday's Cactus League game against the Padres after experiencing arm stiffness in his throwing session earlier in the day, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Guardians are describing Karinchak's removal from the pitching schedule as precautionary, so he could be ready to return to game action within the next few days if the stiffness subsides. After dominating in the first three months of last season and working himself into a closer timeshare with Emmanuel Clase, Karinchak faded badly from July 1 onward, delivering a 6.53 ERA and 1.55 WHIP over his final 20.2 innings in the majors. He may need a healthy, productive spring to avoid a demotion to Triple-A Columbus once the Guardians head north for the regular season.
Oct 1 2021Karinchak was recalled from Triple-A Columbus on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak has saved 11 games this season but pitched himself out of a job in late August after struggling to a 9.75 ERA over his last 12 innings of work. He's been good in seven Triple-A appearances, giving up two runs on three hits in six innings of work while striking out nine batters and walking three. It's not impossible that he could see a high-leverage chance or two in the final series of the season, but the team doesn't seem to have a ton of faith in him given his demotion.
Aug 28 2021Karinchak was optioned to Triple-A Columbus on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The righty allowed three runs without recording an out Friday and has posted a 9.75 ERA In 12 innings dating back to July 22. The demotion is shocking after Karinchak pitched to a 2.67 ERA and 53:16 K:BB in 2020, establishing himself as one of baseball's more dynamic setup relievers. He could find himself back with Cleveland soon enough, assuming he can resolve his command issues and regain some confidence at Triple-A. Bobby Bradley (knee) was activated from the 10-day injured list in a corresponding move.
Aug 27 2021Karinchak (7-4) took the loss Friday versus Boston. He failed to record an out while allowing three runs on two hits and a walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Called upon to protect a two-run lead in the eighth inning, Karinchak walked Christian Vazquez and allowed a single to Jarren Duran before Jonathan Arauz went deep. Consistency remains an issue for Karinchak, who has allowed runs in seven of his 18 appearances since the All-Star break. He owns a 4.14 ERA, 1.23 WHIP and 77:32 K:BB across 54.1 innings overall, but his recent struggles have led to Emmanuel Clase working more as a full-time closer late. Karinchak has 11 saves, five blown saves and 13 holds in 59 appearances.
Aug 23 2021Karinchak allowed a hit and two walks in one-third of an inning, earning a hold in Sunday's 3-0 win over the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander has somewhat rebounded from an ugly July, allowing three runs on five hits and four walks in 7.1 innings in August. Karinchak loaded the bases in the eighth inning Sunday, but Bryan Shaw was able to escape the jam on just two pitches. For the year, Karinchak has a 3.74 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 75:31 K:BB across 53 innings. He's added 11 saves, 12 holds, four blown saves and a 7-3 record, but Emmanuel Clase has emerged as a clearer favorite for ninth-inning duties since the All-Star break.
Aug 9 2021Karinchak struck out one in a perfect eighth inning to earn a hold in Sunday's 7-5 win over Detroit. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After a nightmarish July saw him allow nine runs in 11 innings, Karinchak has strung together three straight scoreless innings to begin August. The 25-year-old's slump last month did some damage to his ratios, which now sit at a 3.51 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 74:28 K:BB in 48.2 innings overall. He's added 11 saves and 10 holds in a high-leverage role, but it appears Emmanuel Clase, who pitched a scoreless inning to earn the save Sunday, has a slight edge for save chances under acting manager DeMarlo Hale.
Jul 31 2021Karinchak (7-3) took the loss Friday versus the White Sox. He allowed two runs on three hits, a walk and a hit batter while failing to record an out. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak lacked control throughout the appearance, and the White Sox were more than willing to capitalize. The 25-year-old was done after he threw an errant fastball with the bases loaded that hit Jose Abreu in the head, causing the benches to clear. It's another rough outing in a month full of them in Cleveland's bullpen. Karinchak has given up six runs in 10.2 innings with an 11:6 K:BB in July, pushing his season ERA up to 3.18 through 45.1 innings. With Cleveland acting as sellers at Friday's trade deadline, save chances for both Karinchak and Emmanuel Clase may be more rare over the last two months of the season.
Jul 25 2021Karinchak (7-2) allowed a walk in a scoreless inning, earning the win Sunday versus Tampa Bay. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak has had some unsteady performances lately, but he was fairly sharp Sunday. He kept Cleveland's deficit from growing, and then earned the win when the offense scraped together two runs in the bottom of the eighth inning. The 25-year-old has a 2.84 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 69:25 K:BB across 44.1 innings. He'll likely continue to share the late innings with Emmanuel Clase, who converted his 12th save Sunday. Karinchak has 11 saves, nine holds and three blown saves.
Jul 22 2021Karinchak allowed two runs on two hits and a walk with one strikeout in one inning, taking a blown save in Thursday's 5-4 extra-inning loss to Tampa Bay. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak was tasked with protecting a two-run lead in the ninth inning, but he allowed a solo home run to Yandy Diaz and and an RBI double to Brandon Lowe to tie the game. Through eight appearances in July, Karinchak has yielded four runs, seven hits and four walks while going 2-for-4 in save chances. The 25-year-old's ERA ticked up to 2.91 with a 1.06 WHIP and 69:24 K:BB through 43.1 innings. Both Karinchak and Emmanuel Clase have struggled in the ninth inning lately, which could leave more opportunities for Bryan Shaw or Nick Wittgren.
Jul 21 2021Karinchak fired a perfect ninth inning en route to earn the save in the win over the Astros on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak retired the side in the ninth inning Wednesday, getting all three batters to pop up in the infield. The 25-year-old recorded his 11th save, tying teammate Emmanuel Clase for most on the team. Cleveland's closing situation has been somewhat inconsistent and the save opportunities usually go to Clase or Karinchak depending on the matchup. Karinchak hasn't struck anyone out over his last three appearances, which is uncharacteristic considering his 14.5 K/9. The 25-year-old has 2.55 ERA and a 1.02 WHIP across 42.1 innings.
Jul 17 2021Karinchak allowed a run on two hits and a walk in one inning, earning the save in Saturday's 3-2 win over Oakland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak put the first two batters aboard and allowed a run on a sacrifice fly, but he was able to get out of trouble in the end. The right-hander presumably got the save chance due to Emmanuel Clase's recent struggles, although Clase pitched a clean inning for a hold in Saturday's contest. With both of Cleveland's top ninth-inning options a little shaky lately, manager Terry Francona will have to pick and choose based on matchups. Karinchak still has a solid 2.61 ERA, 1.04 WHIP and 68:23 K:BB across 41.1 innings this year, to go with 10 saves, nine holds and two blown saves.
Jul 9 2021Karinchak (6-2) allowed a hit and struck out two in a scoreless inning, earning the win Friday over Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander kept Kansas City off the board in the top of the ninth inning, and Bobby Bradley walked it off for Cleveland to earn Karinchak his second win in as many days. The 25-year-old has a 2.52 ERA, 1.02 WHIP and 68:22 K:BB through 39.1 innings this season. Emmanuel Clase took a blown save in the eighth inning Friday -- Karinchak seems to have a slight edge for closing duties lately, although it's expected the pair of relievers will continue to share the role.
Jul 8 2021Karinchak (5-2) blew the save Thursday against the Royals but registered the victory after allowing one run on two hits in one inning. He struck out a pair. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak was tasked with protecting a 4-3 lead in the ninth inning, but Carlos Santana blasted a leadoff home run to center field on a full-count pitch to tie things up. Cleveland turned Karinchak's blown save into a win when Franmil Reyes hit a walkoff three-run dinger in the bottom of the inning. It was only the second blown save in 11 opportunities for Karinchak, who owns a 2.58 ERA and 1.02 WHIP in 38.1 innings on the season. Opponents are hitting just .129 off the 25-year-old, who has racked up 66 strikeouts against 22 walks.
Jun 24 2021Karinchak allowed one hit in one inning and earned the save Thursday against the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak allowed a two-out double to Jorge Polanco, but secured the save by inducing groundouts from Nelson Cruz, Max Kepler and Alex Kiriloff. The 25-year-old Karinchak has been terrific all season, converting nine of 10 save opportunities with a 2.67 ERA, 1.01 WHIP and 58:19 K:BB over 33.2 innings. His lone blown save came way back on April 7 in his third appearance of the year.
Jun 20 2021Karinchak earned the save Sunday against the Pirates after tossing a scoreless ninth inning, walking one and striking out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak has gone 8-for-9 on save chances this season, but he had to work quite a lot to get the job done in this one -- he needed 23 pitches to close things out and only 13 of those were for strikes. The right-hander has notched his eight saves on a row and owns a 2.84 ERA on the season.
Jun 15 2021Karinchak (4-2) struck out the side in a perfect inning, and he was credited with the win Tuesday versus Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Starter Cal Quantrill lasted only four innings, and Karinchak was awarded the win as the most effective reliever in the contest. The right-hander has strung together 4.2 scoreless innings on the heels of a skid that saw him allow nine runs (eight earned) over four innings. For the year, Karinchak owns a 2.45 ERA, 0.92 WHIP and 53:14 K:BB across 29.1 innings. He's 7-for-8 in save chances with six holds.
Jun 12 2021Karinchak (3-2) earned the win in relief Saturday against the Mariners after tossing a scoreless inning, fanning two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak entered the game in the 10th inning after Cleveland scored three runs in the bottom of the ninth, and he carried that momentum into the mound -- he tossed eight of his 13 pitches for strikes and retired the side in order despite having a runner at second the whole time due to the new extra-innings rule. The right-hander has posted three straight scoreless outings and lowered his ERA to 2.67 as a result.
Jun 1 2021Karinchak earned the save Tuesday against the White Sox despite giving up two runs on four hits with one strikeout and one walk during the ninth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander only picked up the save since he was staked a three-run lead, and he escaped by inducing a bases-loaded groundout. Karinchak was electric through his first 21 outings of the season with a 0.44 ERA, 0.48 WHIP and 38:7 K:BB, but he's now surrendered nine runs (seven earned) on nine hits with a 6:6 K:BB across his past five appearances.
May 31 2021Karinchak (2-2) allowed three runs (two earned) on two hits and a walk in one inning during Monday's loss in Game 1 of a doubleheader against the White Sox. He struck out one and took the loss. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak started the eighth inning with Billy Hamilton on second and let him come around to score on a Jose Abreu sacrifice fly. He then coughed up a two-run shot to Adam Eaton shortly after. After allowing just one run in his first 21 appearances, Karinchak has now allowed seven runs (five earned) over his last four games. His ERA is up to 2.28 in 23.2 innings.
May 25 2021Karinchak earned the save Tuesday after tossing a scoreless inning against the Tigers. He allowed one hit and a walk while striking out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It wasn't the sharpest outing for the right-hander, who actually allowed an inherited runner to score after starting pitcher Aaron Civale was pulled in the ninth. Regardless, Karinchak worked out of a bases-loaded jam to slam the door on Detroit, picking up his sixth save of the year. While he doesn't hold the closer title in Cleveland, the 25-year-old has posted spectacular numbers otherwise, compiling a 1.25 ERA, 0.69 WHIP and 39:10 K:BB across 21.2 innings of work.
May 24 2021Karinchak (2-1) was tagged with the loss Sunday against the Blue Jays after allowing three runs (two earned) on one hit and a walk. He didn't record a single out before leaving the game. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak opened the 10th inning with the game tied at 5-5, but he was absolutely woeful and couldn't retire a single batter before stepping off the mound. He ended a streak of seven straight scoreless appearances, but he still owns a 2.70 ERA across 10 innings in the current month.
May 23 2021Karinchak (2-0) pitched 1.1 scoreless innings and struck out two to earn the extra-inning win over Minnesota on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander was called upon for the last out of the ninth inning in a tied game. Cleveland couldn't win it in the bottom of the ninth, but Karinchak stymied Minnesota in the 10th. Cesar Hernandez then launched a walkoff two-run home run to give Karinchak his second win of the season. The 25-year-old reliever has added five saves, five holds, a 0.44 ERA, 0.48 WHIP and 38:7 K:BB across 20.2 innings this season as a dominant option at the back of Cleveland's bullpen.
May 20 2021Karinchak earned his fifth save of the season in a 3-2 win over the Angels on Wednesday after throwing a hitless ninth while walking a batter and striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak was able to record two quick outs before walking Justin Upton, but he struck out Jose Rojas to end the game. Cleveland's closer situation is something worth paying attention to, as Emmanuel Clase still leads the team with seven saves and has been very good for a majority of the season but Karinchak has now tallied back-to-back saves.
May 19 2021Karinchak picked up the save Tuesday in a 6-5 win over the Angels. He did not allow a hit but walked and struck out a batter in an inning of work. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak was called upon to close out the game due to the fact that Emmanuel Clase has struggled with his control in his last two outings. The 25-year-old had a pretty smooth inning as he continued his dominant start to the 2021 season. Karinchak now owns a 0.49 ERA, a 34:6 K:BB and has given up just three hits over 18.1 innings.
May 12 2021Karinchak (1-0) pitched a scoreless 10th inning with one walk and two strikeouts to earn the extra-inning win Wednesday versus the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak kept the game tied at 1-1 in the top of the 10th, and Amed Rosario's walkoff single in the bottom half of the frame secured Cleveland's win. The 25-year-old Karinchak remains an effective option in the late innings with a 0.52 ERA, 0.46 WHIP and 33:5 K:BB across 17.1 innings this season. He's gone 3-for-4 in save chances and also owns five holds in 18 appearances.
May 11 2021Karinchak notched a hold with 1.1 scoreless innings, allowing one walk and striking out one in Tuesday's 3-2 win over the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak got the final out of the seventh inning after Shane Bieber exited the contest. The 25-year-old Karinchak stayed in for the eighth and walked Willson Contreras before retiring the next three batters. Karinchak has a strong 0.55 ERA, 0.43 WHIP and 31:4 K:BB across 16.1 innings. He's picked up three saves and five holds, but remains more of a setup man to Emmanuel Clase, who earned the save with a scoreless ninth inning Tuesday.
May 5 2021Karinchak recorded his third save of the season Wednesday against the Royals after pitching a scoreless ninth inning with two strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak tossed nine of his 14 pitches for strikes and didn't have problems slamming the door on Kansas City with a dominant ninth-inning performance. The right-hander has gone 3-for-4 in save opportunities this campaign but has converted his last three while also giving up just one run all season long -- that translates to a 0.64 ERA across 14 innings.
Apr 30 2021Karinchak pitched a perfect eighth inning with two strikeouts to earn a hold in Friday's 5-3 win over the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak was one of three relievers -- along with Bryan Shaw and Emmanuel Clase -- to log a scoreless inning for Cleveland following Shane Bieber's six-inning start. The 25-year-old Karinchak has allowed only two hits and two walks with 22 strikeouts across 10.2 innings this season. He has two saves, one blown save and four holds in 12 outings. Clase is still manager Terry Francona's preferred closer option, as he's converted five saves.
Apr 27 2021Karinchak had two strikeouts and didn't allow a baserunner over 1.1 innings to record the save during Tuesday's 7-4 win against Minnesota. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Emmanuel Clase pitched each of the past two days, so Karinchak was called upon for the four-out save Tuesday and delivered in short order against the Twins. Neither pitcher has surrendered an earned run through 21 combined innings this season, though Karinchak has been a bit more effective with only two hits allowed and a 20:2 K:BB. Both hurlers will continue to dominate the late-inning work for Cleveland, but Clase has the upper hand for early-season save opportunities.
Apr 17 2021Karinchak pitched a perfect inning with three strikeouts to earn a hold in Saturday's 3-2 extra-inning loss to the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak was in full control Saturday, needing just 11 pitches to complete the eighth inning. He's been the most effective late-inning reliever for Cleveland lately -- he's allowed just four baserunners over six innings while racking up 11 strikeouts. The right-hander has three holds, a save and a blown save in seven appearances and could see some ninth-inning assignments if Emmanuel Clase struggles. Clase blew a save in the ninth Saturday.
Apr 16 2021Karinchak pitched a scoreless inning with one hit and two strikeouts to earn a hold in Thursday's 4-2 win over the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak successfully protected a three-run lead in the eighth inning to pick up his second hold of the season. He's added one save and one blown save across five innings. The 25-year-old has a 0.00 ERA, 0.80 WHIP and 8:2 K:BB so far as a fixture in Cleveland's plans for the late innings. Emmanuel Clase had shakier outing in the ninth, allowing one unearned run.
Apr 13 2021Karinchak picked up the save against the White Sox on Tuesday, pitching a perfect inning and registering one strikeout. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After Cleveland ace Shane Bieber held Chicago scoreless over nine frames, the Tribe put up two in the top of the 10th inning to set the reigning AL Cy Young award winner up for a win. Karinchak was called upon to seal the deal, and he retired Chicago in order on 16 pitches. The save was the first of the season for the right-hander, who has yet to allow a run while striking out six across four innings this season.
Apr 11 2021Karinchak allowed one walk and struck out three in a scoreless eighth inning to earn a hold in Sunday's 5-2 win over the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak was effective in his inning of work despite needing 21 pitches. He's yet to allow a run in three innings this season. He's given up one hit and two walks with five strikeouts. The right-hander remains in the late-innings conversation, but he has yet to record a save. Emmanuel Clase has converted two saves and Nick Wittgren has one.
Apr 7 2021Karinchak allowed an inherited runner to score and a hit over two-thirds of an inning to take a blown save in Wednesday's 4-2 win over the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak allowed an RBI single to Royals shortstop Nicky Lopez. The run was charged to starter Shane Bieber, but Karinchak took a blown save officially. The 25-year-old Karinchak has yet to see a legitimate save chance this season -- he entered Wednesday's game with one out in the seventh inning. He's allowed a hit and a walk in two innings spanning three appearances. Emmanuel Clase earned the win Wednesday, while Nick Wittgren pitched a perfect ninth inning for the save.
Mar 29 2021Cleveland will use a committee of Karinchak, Emmanuel Clase and Nick Wittgren for save chances this season, manager Terry Francona told MLB.com. "The other thing we talked to them about is because there's so many days off early on, you want to keep workloads kind of even. So, there may be times they will pitch even when we're losing," he said. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak entered spring as the leading candidate for the closer role, but struggled with a 6.52 ERA and ten walks in 9.2 innings. He did have 19 strikeouts. It sounds like the closer situation could be in flux early in the season, so Karinchak could get a larger share of the save opportunities if he improves from his spring training performance.
Mar 16 2021Karinchak has made six appearances for Cleveland in Cactus League play, working 5.1 innings and giving up five runs (four earned) on six hits and five walks while striking out 11. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak's ability to rack up strikeouts at a prolific rate would likely make him a top-tier fantasy closer if manager Terry Francona hands him the job, but the skipper has yet to commit to any pitcher as the primary option for saves. While Karinchak still looks like the most appealing candidate, the walk issues he's experienced so far this spring could give Francona pause. Karinchak may need to show improved control in his final handful of Cactus League appearances to stave off the likes of Emmanuel Clase, Nick Wittgren and Blake Parker for closing duties.
Feb 22 2021Cleveland manager Terry Francona suggested Saturday that Karinchak will get the chance to vie for the team's closing job in spring training, Joe Noga of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports. "I know [Karinchak's] big goal this spring is to be pitching at the end of the game," Francona said. "We've got to see how our bullpen looks as it starts to come together and what makes our best bullpen." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Francona said that he isn't ready to define roles for his relievers this early in the spring, but Karinchak would seemingly represent the top internal candidate to replace last year's closer, Brad Hand, who signed with Washington this offseason after being non-tendered. Though Karinchak occasionally struggled with walks (14.7 BB%) in 2020 and saw his velocity drop a couple ticks from the year before, he was otherwise excellent in a setup role during his rookie campaign, submitting a 2.67 ERA in 27 innings while striking out 48.6 percent of the batters he faced. At a minimum, Karinchak should be locked into a high-leverage role out of the Cleveland bullpen in 2021, though he would lose some value if Francona prefers to use one of the veterans on the roster with prior closing experience (Nick Wittgren, Blake Parker, Heath Hembree and Bryan Shaw) as the team's main option in save situations.
Sep 27 2020Karinchak (1-2) pitched a perfect seventh inning with three strikeouts to earn the win Sunday versus the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak whiffed Josh Bell, Bryan Reynolds and Erik Gonzalez in the top of the seventh, and Cleveland rallied for the lead in the bottom half of the frame. The right-handed Karinchak pitched to a 2.67 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 53:16 K:BB and eight holds in 27 appearances this year. He will likely continue as a setup man to closer Brad Hand in the playoffs.
Aug 31 2020Karinchak (0-2) allowed two runs on a hit and two walks while recording his only out via strikeout to take the loss Monday versus the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak entered Monday's contest with Cleveland ahead 1-0, but he walked the first two batters he faced. A Maikel Franco single spelled the end of Karinchak's outing, and reliever Adam Cimber allowed an inherited runner to score. Karinchak still has a solid 2.00 ERA, 0.94 WHIP and 35:9 K:BB in 18 innings this year, but he's allowed three runs over his last two outings. The righty has five holds and a save in 17 appearances.
Aug 25 2020Karinchak struck out two as part of a perfect eighth inning Monday in the Indians' 3-2 loss to the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After struggling in his initial appearances this season, Brad Hand has been sharp of late to solidify his hold on the Indians' closer job, but Karinchak has nonetheless made a compelling case to warrant a roster spot in deeper mixed leagues thanks to the sterling ratios he's provided in a setup role. Through 14 outings this season, Karinchak has posted a 0.57 ERA, 0.64 WHIP and 30:6 K:BB to go with four holds and a save across 15.2 innings. His 53.6 percent strikeout rate is tops among all pitchers who have made more than one appearance this season.
Aug 4 2020Karinchak recorded the final out of the eighth inning Tuesday against the Reds via strikeout before giving way to Brad Hand for the save chance. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After Karinchak earned his first career save last week, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com speculated that Karinchak was "not going to be giving up that spot anytime soon." It now appears that manager Terry Francona still has faith in Hand, at least more than some believed, but Hand was shaky early on and Karinchak has some of the nastiest stuff in baseball. It's clear that the lefty Hand is on notice in the closer role.
Jul 30 2020Karinchak recorded his first career save in Thursday's 2-0 win over the Twins, striking out one while allowing no hits in a scoreless ninth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Thursday marked an impressive showing for the young right-hander, as he followed Shane Bieber's dazzling 13-strikeout performance with a clean, six-pitch ninth inning. Jeff Passan of ESPN.com has speculated that the 24-year old will dethrone Brad Hand as Cleveland's full-time closer, although many within the organization likely feel the veteran Hand deserves a longer leash after getting out of the gates slow to start 2020.
Jun 28 2020Karinchak will be a part of the Indians' 60-man player pool this season. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He was optioned to Triple-A in late March in a procedural move, but Karinchak was always expected to play a key role in Cleveland's bullpen this season. The 24-year-old flamethrower had a 36.4 percent strikeout rate in the majors and a 53.8 percent strikeout rate at Triple-A last season.
Sep 30 2019Karinchak made five appearances out of the Cleveland bullpen in September, allowing one run on three hits and a walk over 5.1 innings while striking out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Karinchak wasn't credited with a hold in any of his appearances, but the hard-throwing righty may have positioned himself for a high-leverage role to begin 2020 nonetheless. Before joining the big club as a September callup, the 24-year-old had been one of the most dominant relief arms in the high minors, racking up 74 strikeouts in just 30.1 innings between three stops. Karinchak has the look of a future closer, though he may not earn that assignment during the upcoming season with Brad Hand still on the books for Cleveland.
Sep 30 2019Karinchak made five appearances out of the Cleveland bullpen in September, allowing one run on three hits and a walk over 5.1 innings while striking out eight.
Sep 12 2019Karinchak's contract was purchased from Triple-A Columbus prior to Friday's game against the Twins, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The top relief-pitching prospect yet to make his big-league debut, Karinchak has logged comically absurd strikeout rates thanks to some deception, a bulldog mentality and pretty good stuff. The 23-year-old righty has a 2.67 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 74:17 K:BB in 30.1 innings, primarily at Double-A and Triple-A. With Brad Hand (arm) day-to-day, it's possible that Karinchak could immediately figure into the ninth-inning equation. He saved eight games in eight opportunities in the minors. While he should already be rostered in dynasty leagues, Karinchak has a chance to be valuable over the final 15 games of the season if his stuff translates.