Victor Vodnik: Everything you need to know

Vodnik (0-2) blew the save and took the loss Thursday against the Padres, allowing five runs on four hits and one walk in two-thirds of an inning. He struck out two. Summoned to protect an 8-5 lead in the ninth inning, Vodnik put forth his worst effort of the season so far. The right-hander gave up a season-high five runs and four knocks in what was his shortest appearance of 2026. Vodnik has a troublesome 7.59 ERA, 2.16 WHIP and 8:6 K:BB over 10.2 innings as Colorado's closer, so it wouldn't be surprising if the Rockies turned to someone like Jaden Hill or Seth Halvorsen the next time a save chance presents itself.

Vodnik picked up the save Saturday against the Dodgers, giving up no runs on two hits and no walks in the ninth inning. Vodnik did make things interesting, allowing the possible tying and go-ahead run to reach base, but he got Kyle Tucker to fly out to wrap up an upset victory. The last-time Rockies figure to be near the bottom of the standings in 2026, but Vodnik appears to be the club's clear-cut closer at this time. Through nine frames, the right-hander has a 2.00 ERA, 1.56 WHIP and 5:4 K:BB while converting three of his four save opportunities.

Vodnik secured his second save of the season Thursday, pitching a scoreless ninth inning against the Astros and allowing one walk with zero hits or strikeouts. The right-hander has converted his last two save chances, but perhaps more importantly, he's now on a roll of six straight outings in which he hasn't allowed an earned run. Vodnik isn't overpowering hitters, as he owns a 4:4 K:BB in 7.0 innings during his scoreless streak, but he's getting the job done. Should he stumble in the closing role, Jimmy Herget or Jaden Hill could be the next men up in the ninth inning.