Mariners' Matt Brash: Moves into top setup role

Brash is in line to see more eighth-inning opportunities as part of the domino effect of Paul Sewald's trade to the Diamondbacks on Monday, and he could also be a candidate for some save chances, Daniel Kramer of MLB.com reports.

Analysis:

Brash happens to be coming off what manager Scott Servais has termed as "probably the best month of his career," as the hard-throwing right-hander finished July with a 2-0 record, eight holds and a 13.9 K/9 without giving up a home run across 11 innings (12 appearances). Brash has been more successful as a reliever since transitioning to the bullpen and is exhibiting improved control this season. With a fastball that averages 98 mph and a 15.3 K/9 across 52 appearances, he's projected to see a nice bump in setup work, at minimum, in front of projected primary closer Andres Munoz.