Anthony Bender

Anthony Bender blew a save in Wednesday's 8-7 loss to the Diamondbacks, allowing two runs on two hits while striking out two in one inning.

Fantasy Impact

Just when it looked like Bender might be securing the closer role for the Marlins, he gives up a two-run homer in the ninth inning of a one-run game Wednesday afternoon. The 27-year-old righty is now 6-for-8 in save opportunities on the year with a 5.79 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, and three home runs allowed across 9 1/3 innings. With Dylan Floro working his way back from injury and Cole Sulser pitching very well, Bender is likely on a short leash.

Anthony Bender allowed two hits and struck out two in a scoreless ninth inning on Saturday against the Mariners, earning his sixth save of the year.

Fantasy Impact

It's not always pretty with Bender, but he gets the job done nearly every time out. His two strikeouts were a bit of an anomaly, as he has struck out just 6.48 batters per nine innings thus far. But his groundball tendency and ability to pound the strike zone have allowed him to have success in the ninth-inning role, and he shows no signs of giving the job up at the moment.

Anthony Bender gave up one hit in 2/3 scoreless innings on Friday against the Mariners to earn his fifth save of the season.

Fantasy Impact

Bender entered the ninth inning with a four-run lead and runners on second and third. Although he allowed a single and both inherited runners to score, he ultimately got Ty France to hit into a fielder's choice to end the game. Bender won't wow you with his numbers and has just four strikeouts in 7 1/3 innings pitched. But he's got the Marlins' closer job on lockdown at the moment and should be in your starting lineup each and every week.

Anthony Bender pitched 1 1/3 scoreless innings on Wednesday against the Nationals, allowing one hit while striking out one. He converted his fourth save opportunity.

Fantasy Impact

Bender gave up some hard contact, but ultimately held the Marlins' one-run lead. Fantasy managers roster Bender for his role, not his numbers, so all that matters is that he continues to convert the majority of his save chances. Dylan Floro's return looms large, but for now, continue to leave Bender in your lineup.

Anthony Bender pitched a perfect ninth inning on Tuesday against the Nationals to earn his third save of the season.

Fantasy Impact

Bender had been unavailable over the weekend with hip soreness, but Don Mattingly had downplayed the injury. True to form, Bender got three groundball outs on just seven pitches. He's firmly entrenched as the Marlins' closer, at least until Dylan Floro returns. Whether he holds the job long-term is an open question.