The one-time closer and rock of the Diamondbacks bullpen, J.J. Putz, was designated for assignment on Friday wrapping up a four year stretch with the team consisting of 175 games, going 7-9 with 83 saves and a 2.81 ERA (50 ER in 160.1 IP).
Putz was lights out as closer for the exciting 2011 season with the Diamondbacks which ultimately resulted in them winning the NL West, only to fall in the divisional round to the Brewers in the playoffs. That season, he had a career-high 45 saves.
Putz’s time will also be remembered by how much he was liked in the Diamondbacks clubhouse. A very well-liked player by his teammates and coaching staff and also the fans. He was a very important figure for younger pitchers on the staff as well.
His 83 saves rank second on the D-backs’ all-time saves list and his 2.81 ERA is second best among D-backs pitchers all-time (minimum 50 games). Putz’s 189 career saves are 12th among all relievers since 2004 (he recorded his first save on August 7, 2004 for the Seattle Mariners in a 5-2 win @ Tampa Bay Devil Rays) and 51st in Major League history.
He stated after the announcement of him being designated for assignment that he will not go down to the minors and will look to begin with another major league squad’s bullpen this season.
In the process, the Diamondbacks call-up outfielder, Ender Inciarte.
Jared Cohen
