Maurer -- who was used in the eighth inning Wednesday -- is still in the mix for save opportunities despite Brad Hand getting the nod in the ninth inning of a 6-5 win over the Mets, MLB.com's AJ Cassavell reports.
With a 6.50 ERA and two blown saves through 18 innings, it is no surprise that manager Andy Green is exploring other options at the tail end of his bullpen. Despite Hand being clearly the superior option, it appears that the San Diego's skipper will play matchups in the ninth like he did Wednesday against the lefty-heavy portion of the Mets' lineup. Owners chasing saves have no choice but to hang on to Maurer until he is officially removed from the closer role.