Closer Monkey

Monkey Bytes | July 13

Saturday’s slate featured a mix of blowouts (four) and games decided by two runs or fewer (nine), though one was a complete game shutout. Relievers recorded seven wins, one accompanied by a blown save (Daysbel Hernández), and six saves while suffering seven losses. Two relievers worked for a third straight contest: Raisel Iglesias (ATL) and Jeremiah Estrada (SD), yet recorded a save. Here are the saves in condensed form:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB	BF
Edwin Díaz	19	22	64%	13.6	1:1	6
Tanner Scott	19	12	58.3	16.7	2:0	3
Mason Miller	18	18	50	11.1	2:1	4
Raisel Iglesias	11	11	81.8	9.1	1:0	3
Daniel Palencia	11	9	77.8	33.3	1:0	2
Jeremiah Estrada	3	11	54.5	9.1	1:0	3

Because of usage patterns and being the last day before the All-Star break, there are limited vulture save options for today’s games:

Vulture Options for July 13

Pierce Johnson (ATL): Iglesias has pitched in three consecutive games, Lee and Hernández in three of the previous four.
Shawn Armstrong (TEX): He may be needed for multi-innings, but also could be in line for the save chance, if provided. Luke Jackson could also be in play, but on July 6, Armstrong notched the vulture save.

Under the Hood: Ryan Helsley

Taking over a tied game at the top of the ninth, Ryan Helsley allowed Nacho Alvarez Jr.’s lead-off single, who advanced to second base on a sacrifice bunt, followed by Drake Baldwin’s pinch-hit single, and an RBI fielder’s choice groundout by Jurickson Profar despite an 0-2 count. Helsley finished with two hits and an earned run, resulting in his first loss.

After a slow start, he has been better, but his monthly splits illustrate how WHIP has been an issue for most of the season:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/4U1Xf/1/

This can be tied to his batting average on balls in play (BAbip) being 30 points higher than last year and an increase in contact allowed:

Ryan Helsley	2024	2025	Difference	Career
Contact%	67	72.2	6.2	70.4
Z-Contact%	80.8	85.6	4.8	82.3
Hard Hit%	34.8	46.2	11.4	39.7

Count leverage has been a theme with relievers this season. However, Devin Williams has rebounded while Helsley continues struggling with his four-seam fastball. In 2025, the pitch has a .453 weighted on-base average (wOBA), a 1.043 on-base percentage plus slugging percentage (OPS) allowed, and a .451 BAbip, which is 164 points above last year.

When a batter is ahead in the count, they produce a .658 wOBA, a .567 expected wOBA (xwOBA), and of 19 balls in play, a 52.6 hard-hit percentage:

In 2024, he also recorded a negative K-BB percentage with the four-seam but managed contact results better. Here is this year’s heat map when he is behind in counts with the four-seam:

Hope can lie in a reliever’s ratio indicators. But Helsley’s current 3.38 ERA has a 3.48 SIERA and 3.90 xERA accompanying it, which suggests this may be as good as it gets this year. This presents a potential problem for him and his team. As a pending free agent, he may be traded ahead of the deadline, though his current results may yield a reduced return in prospect capital. Of a larger concern, he could end up as a setup reliever on a contender, but location will play a pivotal part in his rest-of-the-season projections from a fantasy perspective. Stay tuned, and monitor the trade rumors closely.

Closer CliffsNotes

Atlanta Braves – For a third straight game, Raisel Iglesias retired the side and recorded a strikeout. He capped his team’s rally at the top of the ninth, preserving the one-run lead while locking down his 11th save. Facing the Cardinals’ 9-1-2 hitters, he only needed 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff (9.1 SwStr%).

He extended his scoreless streak to 14 games, during which he has a 0.551 WHIP with 17 strikeouts versus one walk (35.6 K-BB%) across 12.2 innings.

Daysbel Hernández suffered his second blown save, issuing three walks and letting the game-tying run score on a wild pitch, but was awarded his fourth win courtesy of his team’s rally at the top of the ninth.
Dylan Lee gave up two hits, including Brendan Donovan’s RBI single at the bottom of the seventh. He has allowed a run in his last two appearances.

Updated Hierarchy: Raisel Iglesias | Dylan Lee | Daysbel Hernández

Chicago Cubs –Pressed into action with a runner on and one out at the bottom of the ninth, Daniel Palencia retired Jazz Chisolm Jr. via strikeout, then induced a game-ending groundout by Trent Grisham, preserving the three-run lead and securing his 11th save. He only needed nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).

Since his first save on May 21, he has converted all 11 save chances while posting a 0.847 WHIP with 22 strikeouts against four walks (26.8 K-BB%) through 17.2 innings.

Brad Keller turned a potential combined shutout into a save opportunity, allowing two hits, including Aaron Judge’s two-run home run, and hit Giancarlo Stanton before being removed during his one-third of the ninth. He has allowed multiple runs in two of his last three appearances.

Hierarchy Remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Ryan Pressly

Cincinnati Reds – After navigating around a lead-off walk and a single putting runners on the corners, Emilio Pagán bore down, recording consecutive strikeouts, followed by an inning-ending groundout, keeping his team within one run. He collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 19 pitches (63.2 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (21.1 SwStr%), and has been scoreless in six of his last seven, recording two wins and two saves with a 1.00 WHIP in seven innings.

Graham Ashcraft retired all five batters and stranded a runner at the top of the seventh on 18 pitches (61.1 Strike%) with three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Colorado Rockies – Handed a one-run lead, Victor Vodnik gave up Spencer Steer’s lead-off single, followed by Will Benson’s game-tying RBI triple, walked Jake Fraley, and suffered his third loss and fourth blown save when Noelvi Marte reached on a fielding error, scoring the game-winning run. Vodnik finished with two hits, two runs (one earned), and a walk without recording an out.

Juan Mejia notched his sixth hold, yielding a hit during a scoreless eighth.
Tyler Kinley allowed Marte’s solo home run at the bottom of the seventh, getting credit for his sixth hold.
Jimmy Herget stranded a runner, despite giving up a hit and a walk while retiring one batter at the bottom of the sixth for his second hold.

Hierarchy Remains: *Victor Vodnik | *Seth Halvorsen | Juan Mejia

Houston Astros – Although he let the “place” runner score on Adolis García’s single at the top of the 11th, Bennett Sousa earned his third win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the frame. He worked both extra innings, giving up a hit and an unearned run while striking out three.

Josh Hader suffered his first blown save, allowing a game-tying solo home run by Kyle Higashioka on a 3-1 count with two outs at the top of the ninth.

As for the home run:

Through four outings in July, he has allowed a home run in three, resulting in five earned runs during his five innings pitched in this limited sample.

Bryan Abreu was credited with his 23rd hold despite serving up Marcus Semien’s solo home run at the top of the eighth. He also recorded two strikeouts.
Bryan King notched his 19th hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bennett Sousa

Los Angeles Dodgers – Snapping his team’s losing streak and securing his 19th save, Tanner Scott fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts, preserving a one-run win over the Giants. He threw 12 pitches (58.3 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

It’s his first save since June 27 and his first clean appearance since June 17.

Alex Vesia stranded one of three runners, allowing a sacrifice fly while retiring both batters at the bottom of the eighth for his 17th hold.
Emmet Sheehan collected his first win pitching as the “bulk follower.” He logged 4.1 innings, giving up two hits, an earned run, and three walks while striking out three.

Hierarchy Remains: Tanner Scott | Kirby Yates | Alex Vesia

*= closer-by-committee with a preferred save share (Scott)

Milwaukee Brewers – Although he allowed a hit, an earned run, and two walks at the top of the ninth, Grant Anderson was credited with his second win following his team’s walk-off rally plating three runs at the bottom of the inning.

Abner Uribe suffered his second blown save, giving up two hits, including Brady House’s two-run home run at the top of the eighth, snapping his five-game scoreless streak while working 1.2 innings.

Nick Mears stranded two runners at the top of the sixth and allowed two hits during his two-thirds innings between the sixth and the seventh.
Jared Koenig tossed 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

New York Mets – Locking down his 19th save, Edwin Díaz recorded his first two-inning save since September 22, 2024. He allowed a walk and recorded a strikeout on 22 pitches (63.6 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to 12 games, spanning 12.2 innings, during which he has a 0.63 WHIP with 16 strikeouts against two walks (31.9 K-BB%).

Chris Devenski issued a walk during a scoreless seventh for his second hold.
Reed Garrett stranded an inherited runner while retiring all three batters at the bottom of the sixth, securing his 16th hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | Reed Garrett | Huascar Brazobán

San Diego Padres – For a third consecutive day, Jeremiah Estrada appeared during a high-leverage situation. Against the Phillies on Saturday, he preserved a one-run margin for his third save. He threw 11 pitches (54.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff (9.1 SwStr%).

This marked his first save since June 3, and extended his scoreless streak to 11 games, during which he has a 0.636 WHIP with 16 strikeouts against three walks (31.7 K-BB%).

Yuki Matsui stranded a runner despite giving up a hit during one-third of the eighth.
David Morgan logged a scoreless combined inning while yielding a hit. He was awarded his first win as a result.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

Texas Rangers – After stranding the “place” runner at the bottom of the tenth while retiring the side and striking out one, Robert Garcia returned for the 11th, and it did not go well.

He was pulled after issuing consecutive walks to load the bases.

Hoby Milner replaced him, allowing Christian Walker’s sacrifice fly and Zack Short’s walk-off RBI single, resulting in Garcia’s fifth loss and Milner’s fourth blown save.

Chris Martin allowed a hit during a scoreless ninth.
Luke Jackson tossed a scoreless eighth, walking and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Garcia | Chris Martin | Shawn Armstrong

The Athletics – Shutting the door on his 18th while preserving a one-run lead, Mason Miller worked around Joey Loperfido’s lead-off walk and a sacrifice bunt by striking out the next two batters. He threw 18 pitches (50 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%).

He extended his scoreless streak to seven games, during which he has converted all four saves while recording a 0.571 WHIP with 10 strikeouts versus three walks (29.2 K-BB%) in seven innings.

Sean Newcomb stranded a runner at the top of the eighth, striking out both batters for his first hold.
Michael Kelly allowed a hit, an earned run, and a walk while recording an out in the seventh and eighth innings for his fourth hold.
Elvis Alvarado notched his first hold, logging 1.2 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out four.

Hierarchy Remains: Mason Miller | Michael Kelly | Sean Newcomb

Quick Hits

Chicago White Sox: Entering at the top of the sixth, Jordan Leasure suffered his fifth loss. He allowed Kyle Manzardo’s go-ahead solo home run, issued a walk, and recorded a strikeout.
Cleveland Guardians: Closing out a four-run win over the White Sox, Matt Festa retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the bottom of the ninth. Cade Smith fired a clean eighth, striking out one, and secured his 18th hold. Erik Sabrowski retired all four batters faced via strikeout for his second hold.
Kansas City Royals: Appearing during a loss, Lucas Erceg allowed two hits and an earned run while striking out two over 1.1 innings.
Los Angeles Angels: Finishing a five-run win, Connor Brogdon retired the side at the top of the ninth. Sam Bachman let two of three inherited runners score on an infield hit and a walk, recording two outs, one via strikeout for his first hold in the eighth.
Miami Marlins: Completing a combined shutout, Anthony Bender issued a walk and recorded a strikeout. Ronny Henriquez faced the Orioles’ 9-1-2-3 hitters and worked around a hit, securing his 12th hold. He’s been scoreless in his last six and 12 of his last 13, posting a 0.787 WHIP with 19 strikeouts against two walks (37 K-BB%) through 12.2 innings.
Minnesota Twins: As the “bulk follower,” Travis Adams earned his first career win, logging four innings, giving up two hits, two runs (one earned), and a walk while striking out three.
Philadelphia Phillies: During an eventual one-run loss, Matt Strahm fired a clean bottom of the eighth and recorded two strikeouts. Jordan Romano stranded one of two inherited runners, allowing a sacrifice fly and striking out one during two-thirds of the seventh.
Pittsburgh Pirates: During a lopsided loss, David Bednar worked around Matt Wallner’s one-out single, tossing a scoreless bottom of the eighth. He threw 14 pitches (57.1 Strike%) without a whiff. He has not had a save chance since July 1 but extended his scoreless streak to seven games, during which he has posted a 1.00 WHIP with nine strikeouts against three walks.
San Francisco Giants: In an eventual one-run loss, Tyler Rogers gave up a hit during a scoreless top of the ninth. Ryan Walker retired the side in the eighth. Joey Lucchesi worked a clean seventh, striking out two. He has been scoreless in his last six relief outings and recorded nine strikeouts against two walks across seven innings.
Tampa Bay Rays: During a shutout loss, Edwin Uceta logged 1.2 scoreless frames, walking one and striking out four on 24 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with five whiffs (20.8 SwStr%).

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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Trade Deadline Primer | 7.8.2025

Because the standings do not yet provide clarity on which bubble teams will buy or sell, our first trade deadline will focus on which relievers may be “on the block” and potential stash candidates if they are traded. Following the All-Star break, we will provide updates for each league in our more traditional coverage, culminating in the July 31 deadline tracker.

In this post ($) by Jim Bowden, he polled front offices regarding which relievers are most likely to be moved before the trade deadline passes. There are no guarantees they will be. In order of their listing:

Aroldis Chapman (BOS)
David Bednar (PIT)
Dennis Santana (PIT)
Félix Bautista (BAL)
Mason Miller (ATH)
Ryan Helsley (STL)
Emmanuel Clase (CLE)
Jhoan Durán (MIN)
Griffin Jax (MIN)

By team:

Boston Red Sox: A decision on Aroldis Chapman will be difficult. He has been terrific this season, converting 15 of his first 16 save chances with a 0.78 WHIP, a 31.6 K-BB percentage, and a robust 20.7 percent swinging strike rate, currently a career best through his first 39 appearances. He’s on a one-year deal, and if the team’s trying to compete while building an optimal roster for 2026, trading him and bringing him back makes sense.

Jordan Hicks has emerged as the right-handed complement for Chapman and could be the main beneficiary of a trade since Justin Slaten has been progressing slowly during his rehab from a shoulder injury.

Pittsburgh Pirates: Rumors have circulated that the Pirates are willing to trade Bednar and Santana as a package, with the Phillies among the teams interested. Both are under team control through the end of next year, enhancing their appeal.

Isaac Mattson has posted a 0.72 WHIP with a 21.2 K-BB percentage. He has a swinging strike rate over ten percent with three pitches: four-seam fastball (11 percent), change-up (13.3 percent), and slider (18.5 percent). He needs to improve against left-handed hitters, but remains an intriguing stash candidate in the event his teammates are traded.

Baltimore Orioles: It’s challenging to ascertain if the Orioles are willing to move “The Mountain” or if teams are trying to talk it into existence. Bautista is under team control through 2027, rounding into past form after returning from Tommy John surgery. However, Seranthony Domínguez and Gregory Soto are pending free agents, making the likelihood they are moved much more certain, even if the Orioles go on a heater.

I think Bautista won’t be moved. If he is, Bryan Baker would be the last man standing for the second half.

The Athletics: Like Bautista above, teams may be more interested in acquiring Miller than the A’s are willing to trade him. They should listen, and if they get a deal they cannot refuse, he could be traded. However, this feels like a reach right now, but things can change rapidly over the next two weeks.

If Miller’s moved, Jack Perkins could be transitioned into a one-inning reliever. He has recorded two saves this season, both of which were three-inning outings, although one was a 3.1-inning appearance. Through three games and 9.1 innings, he has a 22.9 K-BB percentage with a 17.2 percent swinging strike rate.

St. Louis Cardinals: Pending free agent Ryan Helsley should be moved if the team remains committed to its rebuild.

Andre Granillo had a memorable day on June 19, recording his first career win and first career save during a doubleheader. He has returned to Triple-A but could be in the mix for save chances following the trade deadline. His 39.4 strikeout percentage from Triple-A has yet to translate, but with better command of his four-seam fastball, success may follow. Also of interest: Riley O’Brien and Matt Svanson.

Cleveland Guardians: There were undercurrents of discussions about Clase in the preseason, and talks about moving him may resurface. His $4.9 million salary this year rises to $6.4 million in 2026, followed by club options for $10 million in 2027 and 2028. He leads all relievers with 175 saves since 2021 but has posted a career worst 1.32 WHIP through his first 40 games this season.

Cade Smith lies in wait, though he has implosions. He has been scoreless in 33 of his 39 outings, but allowed four earned runs in two games, accounting for eight of his 13 earned runs through 36.2 innings.

Minnesota Twins: Trading one of Durán or Jax feels strange, but anything is possible depending on the return.

If either or both get moved, Louis Varland stands to benefit from a fantasy standpoint.

Also Available

Atlanta Braves: Raisel Iglesias has been scoreless in his last 11 appearances since June 9, posting a 0.722 WHIP with 14 strikeouts against one walk (36.1 K-BB%) across 9.2 innings. He is a free agent at the end of the year. Pierce Johnson has a club option for 2026, and Aaron Bummer will be a free agent in 2027.

Baltimore Orioles: Seranthony Domínguez and Gregory Soto are free agents at the end of the season. Andrew Kittredge and Bryan Baker could also be on the market if the team sells.

Colorado Rockies: Jake Bird not only has two options remaining, but he will not be a free agent until 2029, though his arbitration window opens at the end of 2025.

Miami Marlins: Anthony Bender will be under team control until the end of 2026, and Calvin Faucher will not be a free agent until 2030.

Washington Nationals: Kyle Finnegan will enter free agency at the end of the year, but should be moved before the deadline. With a new manager pending, usage patterns over the next two weeks will be pivotal to identify who gets the ninth. The team has signed Luis García, allowing him to enter the mix with Jose A. Ferrer, Brad Lord, and Mason Thompson for leverage opportunities.

Possibly Available

Arizona Diamondbacks: Shelby Miller will be a free agent at the end of the season. Kevin Ginkel would be the beneficiary if Miller’s moved.

**UPDATE: With Miller being placed on the injured list, his trade status will be in limbo based on the imaging results—more bad luck for this team.

Cincinnati Reds: If the Reds falter, Emilio Pagán and Taylor Rogers will be free agents at the end of 2025, and if moved, Graham Ashcraft should audition for the ninth.

St. Louis Cardinals: As mentioned above, Maton will be a free agent in 2026, as will Steven Matz; both should be traded if the team is in sell mode.

Texas Rangers: If the Rangers abandon chasing the playoffs, Chris Martin, Shawn Armstrong, and Hoby Milner will be free agents at the end of the season.

Check back after the All-Star break for updates by leagues with our buy+, buy, sell+, and sell recommendations.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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Closer Monkey’s Updated Rankings | 7.7.2025

Recognizing that ranking relievers can become outdated within hours, Closer Monkey’s updated rankings incorporate in-season results with rest-of-season potential, yielding a number often worth debating. Each week, we are providing saves, SOLDS, and holds rankings. They are a combination of season-to-date, last 14-day results, and rest-of-season projections, causing fluctuations in reliever valuation.

Relievers on the Rise

Jeff Hoffman (TOR): He is on a six-game scoreless streak since June 25, during which he has converted all five save opportunities while posting a 0.667 WHIP with seven strikeouts (31.8 K-BB%) across six innings.
Isaac Mattson (PIT): Across his last six games, he has logged 6.1 innings, recording a win and two holds with 10 strikeouts versus three walks (28 K-BB%) and a 0.95 WHIP. He may be the heir apparent when the Pirates trade David Bednar and Dennis Santana. Stay tuned.

Updated Top 40 Relievers for Saves

Rank	Relievers
1	Josh Hader
2	Edwin Díaz
3	Andrés Muñoz
4	Jeff Hoffman
5	Devin Williams
6	Aroldis Chapman
7	Carlos Estévez
8	Robert Suarez
9	Will Vest
10	Jhoan Durán
11	Emilio Pagán
12	Tanner Scott
13	Emmanuel Clase
14	Ryan Helsley
15	Trevor Megill
16	Félix Bautista
17	Pete Fairbanks
18	David Bednar
19	Mason Miller
20	Kenley Jansen
21	Daniel Palencia
22	Kyle Finnegan
23	Ronny Henriquez
24	Camilo Doval
25	Matt Strahm
26	Robert Garcia
27	Grant Taylor
28	Seth Halvorsen
29	Orion Kerkering
30	Bryan Abreu
31	Bennett Sousa
32	Jordan Hicks
33	Randy Rodríguez
34	Kirby Yates
35	Jason Adam
36	Dylan Lee
37	Matt Brash
38	Seranthony Domínguez
39	Alex Vesia
40	Kevin Ginkel

Save Stashes:

Jordan Hicks (BOS)
Graham Ashcraft (CIN)
Isaac Mattson (PIT)
Andre Granillo (STL)

Top 75 for SOLDS

Rank	Reliever
1	Josh Hader
2	Bryan Abreu
3	Andrés Muñoz
4	Aroldis Chapman
5	Jason Adam
6	Tyler Rogers
7	Edwin Díaz
8	Devin Williams
9	Abner Uribe
10	Randy Rodríguez
11	Jeff Hoffman
12	Emilio Pagán
13	Griffin Jax
14	Will Vest
15	Tanner Scott
16	Carlos Estévez
17	Jhoan Durán
18	Adrian Morejon
19	Jeremiah Estrada
20	Alex Vesia
21	Robert Suarez
22	Yariel Rodríguez
23	Matt Strahm
24	Matt Brash
25	Cade Smith
26	Trevor Megill
27	Daniel Palencia
28	David Bednar
29	Serathony Domínguez
30	Mason Miller
31	Félix Bautista
32	Kirby Yates
33	Orion Kerkering
34	Ryan Helsley
35	Ronny Henriquez
36	Phil Maton
37	Lucas Erceg
38	Tommy Kahnle
39	Louis Varland
40	Kyle Finnegan
41	Luke Weaver
42	Pete Fairbanks
43	Bennett Sousa
44	Jordan Hicks
45	Camilo Doval
46	Bryan King
47	Tony Santillan
48	Dennis Santana
49	Brad Keller
50	Edwin Uceta
51	Dylan Lee
52	Reid Detmers
53	Grant Taylor
54	Bryan Baker
55	Ryne Stanek
56	Braydon Fisher
57	Robert Garcia
58	Gregory Soto
59	Kenley Jansen
60	Reed Garrett
61	Chris Martin
62	Garrett Cleavinger
63	Isaac Mattson
64	Raisel Iglesias
65	Jared Koenig
66	Greg Weissert
67	JoJo Romero
68	Anthony Bender
69	Hunter Gaddis
70	Ryan Zeferjahn
71	Caleb Thielbar
72	Kevin Ginkel
73	Seth Halvorsen
74	Victor Vodnik
75	Kyle Backhus

Relievers on the Rise

Bennett Sousa (HOU): Since June 7, he has been scoreless in ten of 12 appearances with a 1-1 record, three saves, three holds, a 0.588 WHIP, and 19 strikeouts versus three walks across 15.1 innings.
Braydon Fisher (TOR): With Yimi García back on the injured list with an ankle issue, Fisher may continue logging high-leverage appearances. He has posted two wins and three holds with a 1.14 WHIP and eight strikeouts in his last seven innings. He’s more of a deep league play, but an intriguing arm in this bullpen.

Top 50 for Holds

Rank	Reliever
1	Bryan Abreu
2	Jason Adam
3	Tyler Rogers
4	Abner Uribe
5	Randy Rodríguez
6	Jeremiah Estrada
7	Adrian Morejon
8	Phil Maton
9	Griffin Jax
10	Cade Smith
11	Yariel Rodríguez
12	Alex Vesia
13	Seranthony Domínguez
14	Louis Varland
15	Reid Detmers
16	Matt Brash
17	Kirby Yates
18	Tommy Kahnle
19	Lucas Erceg
20	Ryne Stanek
21	Bryan Baker
22	Brad Keller
23	Luke Weaver
24	Reed Garrett
25	Bryan King
26	Braydon Fisher
27	Brendon Little
28	Dennis Santana
29	Tony Santillan
30	Gregory Soto
31	Ryan Zeferjahn
32	Greg Weissert
33	Anthony Bender
34	Victor Vodnik
35	Hoby Milner
36	Tyler Holton
37	Edwin Uceta
38	Chris Martin
39	Gabe Speier
40	Garrett Whitlock
41	Jared Koenig
42	Jake Bird
43	Scott Barlow
44	Mark Leiter Jr.
45	Jose A. Ferrer
46	Brad Lord
47	Garrett Cleavinger
48	Caleb Ferguson
49	Kevin Ginkel
50	Chase Lee

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Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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Closer Monkey Month in Review | June 2025

As the sample sizes grow and teams pass the halfway point of the season, it helps break down performance in monthly splits. Using underlying metrics and hard statistical data, some intriguing names emerge in the June leaderboards with the Trade Deadline fast approaching.

League Saves through June

2025: 632 saves
2024: 639 saves
2023: 636 saves

Blown saves through June

2025: 369
2024: 367
2023: 361

Save Opportunities through June

2025: 1,001
2024: 1,006
2023: 997

No matter how the relievers and team approaches change, the numbers remain consistent across the last three years. With this in mind, here are the save trends by individual relievers since 2023:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gFRE8/1/

Last year, Ryan Helsley (30) and Emmanuel Clase (25) had more than 24 saves, but they are the only two since 2023 to accomplish this feat.

Individual Results and Trends from June 2025

Mining the data from qualified relievers only in June, there were some relievers of interest, and some strong performances by relievers on the trade deadline radar. Beginning with the top performers by my four favorite categories, these relievers met the standards for all four of the following:

K-BB percentage greater than 20 percent, a swinging strike rate above 16 percent, a strike percentage over 66 percent, and a contact rate allowed below 66 percent:

Name	K-BB%	SwStr%	Strike%	Contact%
Aroldis Chapman	45.9%	26.3%	73.0%	57.9%
Josh Hader	42.9%	23.9%	68.7%	58.3%
Griffin Jax	40.0%	26.0%	68.5%	49.3%
Devin Williams	33.3%	20.4%	67.3%	60.5%
Bennett Sousa	31.7%	20.5%	70.9%	64.8%
Jason Adam	23.4%	19.3%	68.5%	62.9%
Reid Detmers	23.1%	16.5%	68.9%	65.7%

Aroldis Chapman will be a topic of debate. He’s signed to a one-year contract, and while his team maintains it’s going to finish better than last year, does keeping the potentially highly sought-after southpaw on the roster past the trade deadline make sense?
Devin Williams has taken a complete 180 from his rough start in New York. He’s a pending free agent and will continue adding to his allure this winter.

These relievers missed the cut but qualified in three of the four categorical requirements listed above:

Name	K-BB%	SwStr%	Strike%	Contact%
Bryan Abreu	39.6%	23.1%	61.5%	50.9%
David Bednar	36.1%	16.7%	66.7%	66.7%
Edwin Uceta	34.6%	20.9%	64.0%	58.9%
Edwin Diaz	33.3%	18.8%	63.2%	62.5%
Shelby Miller	33.3%	16.9%	71.1%	66.7%
Braydon Fisher	32.7%	15.0%	66.8%	65.0%
Dylan Lee	31.8%	17.2%	71.2%	68.5%
Will Vest	29.3%	16.5%	68.8%	67.4%
Nick Mears	26.8%	16.1%	72.5%	71.1%
Jeffrey Springs	25.5%	16.2%	68.6%	69.0%
Raisel Iglesias	22.0%	15.8%	68.5%	65.7%
Mason Montgomery	22.0%	19.3%	67.6%	66.1%

Bryan Abreu had a tremendous June and has been valuable as a ratio eraser despite not getting a save, finishing 25th in SGP.
Will this be the year David Bednar gets traded? I have advised against this in years past, but this year, the Pirates should be selling him and Dennis Santana.
Speaking of potential trade bait, Shelby Miller had a strong June. This was the iteration I was expecting last year, but I digress. If Arizona drifts further in the standings, Miller, on an expiring contract, should be moved.

Saves Leaders

Name	Saves
Josh Hader	9
Tanner Scott	8
Trevor Megill	8
Camilo Doval	7
Aroldis Chapman	6
Félix Bautista	6
Devin Williams	6
Emmanuel Clase	6
Jeff Hoffman	6
Carlos Estévez	6
David Bednar	5
Shelby Miller	5
Will Vest	5
Pete Fairbanks	5
Robert Suarez	5

Holds Leaders

Name	Holds
Abner Uribe	9
Jared Koenig	8
Jeremiah Estrada	7
Seranthony Domínguez	7
Tyler Rogers	7
Greg Weissert	6
Bryan Baker	6
Phil Maton	6
Ryan Thompson	6
Bryan Abreu	6
Gregory Soto	6
Hoby Milner	6
Anthony Bender	6

SOLDS Leaders

Name	Saves	Holds	SOLDS
Tanner Scott	8	2	10
Josh Hader	9	0	9
Greg Weissert	3	6	9
Abner Uribe	0	9	9
Bryan Baker	2	6	8
Trevor Megill	8	0	8
Jared Koenig	0	8	8
Jeremiah Estrada	1	7	8
Aroldis Chapman	6	1	7
Seranthony Domínguez	0	7	7
Devin Williams	6	1	7
Tyler Rogers	0	7	7
Shelby Miller	5	2	7
Camilo Doval	7	0	7

Strikeouts and Swinging Strike Percentage Leaders

Name	Strikeouts	Name	SwStr%
Bryan Abreu	26	Aroldis Chapman	26.3%
Edwin Uceta	23	Griffin Jax	26.0%
Josh Hader	22	Josh Hader	23.9%
Justin Wrobleski	21	Fernando Cruz	23.5%
Reid Detmers	20	Bryan Abreu	23.1%
Aroldis Chapman	19	Edwin Uceta	20.9%
Seranthony Domínguez	19	Bennett Sousa	20.5%
Braydon Fisher	19	Devin Williams	20.4%
Félix Bautista	19	Jason Adam	19.3%
Jason Adam	19	Mason Montgomery	19.3%
Fernando Cruz	19	Mason Miller	18.8%
Angel Zerpa	18	Edwin Díaz	18.8%
Griffin Jax	18	Phil Maton	18.8%
Hogan Harris	18	Grant Anderson	17.5%
Jake Bird	18	Tyler Kinley	17.4%
Casey Legumina	17	Brandon Eisert	17.3%
David Morgan	17	Dylan Lee	17.2%
Hoby Milner	17	Yuki Matsui	17.0%
Brendon Little	17	Shelby Miller	16.9%

K-BB Percentage and WHIP Leaders

Name	K-BB%	Name	WHIP
Aroldis Chapman	45.9%	Aroldis Chapman	0.36
Josh Hader	42.9%	Bennett Sousa	0.41
Griffin Jax	40.0%	Adrian Morejon	0.45
Bryan Abreu	39.6%	Alex Vesia	0.46
David Bednar	36.1%	Dylan Lee	0.47
Edwin Uceta	34.6%	Josh Hader	0.51
Fernando Cruz	34.2%	Dennis Santana	0.51
Felix Bautista	34.1%	Devin Williams	0.52
Devin Williams	33.3%	Shawn Armstrong	0.56
Edwin Diaz	33.3%	Mike Vasil	0.56
Shelby Miller	33.3%	Isaac Mattson	0.60
Braydon Fisher	32.7%	Matt Brash	0.60
Steven Okert	32.5%	Rafael Montero	0.62
Dylan Lee	31.8%	Will Vest	0.64
Bennett Sousa	31.7%	Yariel Rodriguez	0.64
Alex Vesia	31.3%	Braydon Fisher	0.68
Casey Legumina	31.1%	Casey Legumina	0.69
J.T. Ginn	30.6%	David Bednar	0.70
Will Vest	29.3%	2 tied with	0.71

Updated 2025 Leaderboards (through June 30)

Saves Leaders

Name	Saves
Josh Hader	23
Robert Suarez	23
Carlos Estévez	22
Jeff Hoffman	19
Andrés Muñoz	18
Kyle Finnegan	18
Trevor Megill	18
Emilio Pagán	18
Emmanuel Clase	18
Tanner Scott	18
Edwin Díaz	16
Félix Bautista	16
Ryan Helsley	16
Mason Miller	16
Pete Fairbanks	15
Kenley Jansen	15
Aroldis Chapman	14
Will Vest	13
Camilo Doval	13

Holds Leaders

Name	Holds
Abner Uribe	23
Bryan Abreu	20
Jason Adam	19
Tyler Rogers	18
Phil Maton	17
Tony Santillan	17
Gregory Soto	17
Jeremiah Estrada	17
Hunter Gaddis	17
Griffin Jax	17
Bryan King	16
Brendon Little	15
Cade Smith	15
Alex Vesia	15
Jared Koenig	15
Jose A. Ferrer	15
Lucas Erceg	14
Reed Garrett	14
Greg Weissert	14
Ryan Zeferjahn	14

SOLDS Leaders

Name	Saves	Holds	SOLDS
Tanner Scott	18	7	25
Abner Uribe	1	23	24
Josh Hader	23	0	23
Robert Suarez	23	0	23
Carlos Estévez	22	0	22
Bryan Abreu	0	20	20
Camilo Doval	13	7	20
Emilio Pagán	18	2	20
Jason Adam	0	19	19
Phil Maton	2	17	19
Tommy Kahnle	8	11	19
Tony Santillan	2	17	19
Emmanuel Clase	18	1	19
Jeremiah Estrada	2	17	19
Jeff Hoffman	19	0	19
Andrés Muñoz	18	0	18
Tyler Rogers	0	18	18
Shelby Miller	10	8	18
Cade Smith	3	15	18
Kyle Finnegan	18	0	18
Trevor Megill	18	0	18
Alex Vesia	3	15	18
Devin Williams	11	7	18

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Statistical Credits:

Closer Monkey Quarterly Review

With most teams reaching one-quarter of their 162 games played, it’s time to delve into results by their relievers. Our compiled statistics reflect outcomes from games played through May 14, 2025, and the last 365 days (the statistical year).

Before going through the team’s closer(s), some leaderboards for the last 365 days.

Last Statistical Year Leaders

Name	Saves
Emmanuel Clase	45
Ryan Helsley	45
Josh Hader	39
Robert Suarez	39
Kyle Finnegan	39
Carlos Estévez	32
Mason Miller	31
Raisel Iglesias	30
Andrés Muńoz	29
Pete Fairbanks	28
Jhoan Durán	28
Tanner Scott	27
Kirby Yates	27
Kenley Jansen	27
Edwin Díaz	24
Trevor Megill	22
Camilo Doval	22

Name	Saves	Holds	SOLDS
Emmanuel Clase	45	1	46
Ryan Helsley	45	0	45
Bryan Abreu	1	41	42
Tanner Scott	27	14	41
Robert Suarez	39	1	40
Josh Hader	39	0	39
Kyle Finnegan	39	0	39
Lucas Erceg	13	24	37
Cade Smith	4	33	37
Hunter Gaddis	0	37	37
Yennier Cano	3	33	36
Jason Adam	1	35	36
Tyler Rogers	1	35	36
Kirby Yates	27	8	35
Ryan Walker	17	18	35
Griffin Jax	5	30	35

Reliever	SwStr%	Name	K-BB%
Josh Hader	21.5%	Mason Miller	31.2%
Dylan Lee	19.6%	Griffin Jax	30.6%
Mason Miller	19.6%	Jeremiah Estrada	30.4%
Griffin Jax	19.2%	A.J. Puk	29.9%
Jeremiah Estrada	18.4%	Josh Hader	29.6%
Jason Adam	18.0%	Cade Smith	29.4%
Andrés Muñoz	17.1%	Jeff Hoffman	29.1%
Edwin Díaz	17.0%	Mark Leiter Jr.	28.5%
Kirby Yates	16.9%	Kirby Yates	28.3%
Fernando Cruz	16.9%	Chris Martin	28.0%
Mark Leiter Jr.	16.9%	Edwin Díaz	27.9%
Tanner Scott	16.6%	Dylan Lee	27.6%
Jeff Hoffman	16.6%	Aroldis Chapman	25.7%
José Leclerc	16.5%	Alex Vesia	25.6%
Angel Chivilli	16.5%	Tony Santillan	25.4%
Ryne Stanek	16.5%	David Robertson	25.0%
A.J. Puk	16.3%	Raisel Iglesias	24.3%
Raisel Iglesias	16.3%	Fernando Cruz	24.1%
Brendon Little	16.3%	Matt Strahm	23.5%
Ryan Helsley	16.2%	Edwin Uceta	23.4%
Luke Weaver	15.8%	Keegan Akin	23.3%

Name	SO	Name	WHIP
Jeremiah Estrada	114	Raisel Iglesias	0.79
Cade Smith	106	Hunter Gaddis	0.80
Josh Hader	104	A.J. Puk	0.81
Griffin Jax	102	Tyson Miller	0.81
Mason Miller	101	Josh Hader	0.85
Kirby Yates	99	Lucas Erceg	0.85
Bryan Abreu	99	Nick Martinez	0.85
Luke Weaver	98	Kyle Leahy	0.88
Fernando Cruz	97	Jason Adam	0.89
Aroldis Chapman	96	Matt Strahm	0.89
Alex Vesia	96	Brant Hurter	0.89
Keegan Akin	96	Emmanuel Clase	0.90
Jeff Hoffman	95	Tyler Holton	0.90
Jason Adam	93	Andrés Muñoz	0.91
Mark Leiter Jr.	92	Manuel Rodríguez	0.92

Reliever Breakdowns by Team

American League East

Baltimore Orioles

Closer: Félix Bautista

2025: 12 IP, 7 saves, 15:6 K:BB (18.8 K-BB%), 1.00 WHIP, 15.5 SwStr%, 61.5 Strike%
He’s not appeared in consecutive games yet, but his workload should increase by June.
Help may be on the way in the form of Andrew Kittredge by next week.

Bautista has been solid despite working with reduced velocity after returning from Tommy John surgery. His team’s early struggles have not affected his save total, even though he has not appeared in back-to-back games yet.

Boston Red Sox

Closer: Aroldis Chapman

2025: 16 IP, 6 saves, 22:6 K:BB (24.6 K-BB%), 1.00 WHIP, 19.4 SwStr%, 68.1 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 64 IP, 19 saves, 96:28 K:BB (25.7 K-BB%), 1.14 WHIP, 15.1 SwStr%, 66.3 Strike%

Chapman has performed well, but his leverage ladder has not.

New York Yankees

Luke Weaver

2025: 20 IP, 4 saves, 22:6 K:BB (22.2 K-BB%), 0.60 WHIP, 14.1 SwStr%, 68.1 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 78 IP, 8 saves, 98:28 K:BB (23 K-BB%), 0.95 WHIP, 15.8 SwStr%, 64.5 Strike%

Devin Williams

2025: 14 IP, 4 saves, 16:11 K:BB (7.4 K-BB%), 1.79 WHIP, 11.7 SwStr%, 60.4 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 35.2 IP, 18 saves, 54:22 K:BB (20.5 K-BB%), 1.29 WHIP, 15.1 SwStr%, 61.3 Strike%
Last 14 Days: 4 IP, 6:3 K:BB (16.7 K-BB%), 1.25 WHIP, 16.7 SwStr%, 65.2 Strike%

This represents one of the most intriguing bullpens for the remainder of the season. Quotes from Aaron Boone make it sound like he wants Williams in the ninth inning, but Weaver’s been the better pitcher over the last 365 days.

Tampa Bay Rays

Closer: Pete Fairbanks

2025: 17 IP, 8 saves. 16:9 K:BB (9.5 K-BB%), 1.29 WHIP, 11.8 SwStr%, 60.4 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 54.1 IP, 28 saves, 49:18 K:BB (14.1 K-BB%), 1.09 WHIP, 10.9 SwStr%, 64.9 Strike%

Will this be the year Tampa Bay trades Fairbanks? He could be cheaper target before the trade deadline, which feels like something the Cubs would be interested in.

Toronto Blue Jays

Closer: Jeff Hoffman

2025: 19.1 IP, 9 saves, 31:4 K:BB (33.3 K-BB%), 1.19 WHIP, 16.5 SwStr%, 70.6 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 67.2 IP, 17 saves, 95:14 K:BB (29.1 K-BB%), 1.05 WHIP, 16.6 SwStr%, 68.4 Strike%

There have been some bumps in the road during recent appearances, but his salary and numbers above suggest it’s a blip, not a trend.

American League Central

Chicago White Sox

Three different relievers have recorded the team’s three saves. Cam Booser could be a viable option for those in league-only formats, and they just traded for Miguel Castro, but this bullpen will be in constant flux. If Grant Taylor works as a reliever upon promotion, I will be interested.

Cleveland Guardians

Closer: Emmanuel Clase

2025: 18.1 IP, 9 saves, 19:4 K:BB (18.1 K-BB%), 1.58 WHIP, 17.3 SwStr%, 70.2 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 72.1 IP, 45 saves, 63:13 K:BB (17.7 K-BB%), 0.90 WHIP, 14.1 SwStr%, 71.4 Strike%

Clase has emerged from his early season slump by converting his last five save chances.

Detroit Tigers

Primary Save Share: Will Vest

2025: 20 IP, 4 saves, 23:7 K:BB (20.3 K-BB%), 1.05 WHIP, 13.8 SwStr%, 65.6 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 73.1 IP, 6 saves, 79:21 K:BB (19.4 K-BB%), 1.08 WHIP, 11.3 SwStr%, 66.4 Strike%

It appears the baton has been passed from Jason Foley to Tommy Kahnle, and now Vest is the preferred option for save chances by A.J. Hinch.

Kansas City Royals

Closer: Carlos Estévez

2025: 19.2 IP, 12 saves, 18:10 K:BB (9.4 K-BB%), 1.22 WHIP, 9.4 SwStr%, 62.3 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 63 IP, 32 saves, 54:22 K:BB (12.7 K-BB%), 0.98 WHIP, 11 SwStr%, 66.2 Strike%

HLR: Lucas Erceg

2025: 19 IP, 1 save, 14:1 K:BB (20.6 K-BB%), 0.47 WHIP, 11.2 SwStr%, 66.2 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 64.2 IP, 13 saves, 64:9 K:BB (22.1 K-BB%), 0.85 WHIP, 13.4 SwStr%, 65.8 Strike%

While fantasy managers await for Erceg to get save chances, Estévez keeps outperforming his underlying data. Will his recent uptick in velocity prevent regression? Stay tuned.

Minnesota Twins

Closer: Jhoan Durán

2025: 20.1 IP, 8 saves, 24:9 K:BB (18.5 K-BB%), 0.98 WHIP, 16 SwStr%, 67.7 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 67.2 IP, 82:23 K:BB (20.7 K-BB%). 1.18 WHIP, 14.9 SwStr%, 66 Strike%

He’s tweaked his arsenal and been solid this season.

American League West

Houston Astros

Closer: Josh Hader

2025: 18 IP, 10 saves, 26:5 K:BB (29.6 K-BB%), 0.89 WHIP, 19.4 SwStr%, 70.5 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 72 IP, 39 saves, 104:22 K:BB (29.6 K-BB%). 0.85 WHIP, 21.5 SwStr%, 68.2 Strike%

Hader remains an elite option in his position.

Los Angeles Angels

Closer: Kenley Jansen

2025: 11 IP, 7 saves, 11:3 K:BB (16.7 K-BB%), 1.45 WHIP, 11.5 SwStr%, 68.7 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 52 IP, 27 saves, 54:14 K:BB (19.3 K-BB%). 1.10 WHIP, 11.3 SwStr%, 69.3 Strike%

With Ben Joyce out for the season after undergoing shoulder surgery, Jansen will benefit from the return of Robert Stephenson. And if he struggles, “Bob-Steve” could assume closer duties after the All-Star break.

Seattle Mariners

Closer: Andrés Muñoz

2025: 19 IP, 25:8 K:BB (24.7 K-BB%), 0.79 WHIP, 17.4 SwStr%, 62.6 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 61.2 IP, 29 saves, 82:27 (22.8 K-BB%), 0.91 WHIP, 17.1 SwStr%, 63 Strike%

A healthy and productive Muñoz is terrific for Seattle and fantasy managers.

Texas Rangers

Closer: Luke Jackson

2025: 13 IP, 12:7 K:BB (8.6 K-BB%), 1.54 WHIP, 9.3 SwStr%, 62.4 Strike%

Sidelined recently by a comeback line drive, his peripheral results suggest he’s on thin ice as a closer. He allows too much contact, does not produce whiffs, and can be predictable when his command struggles. Heed the WHIP and take note of who emerges as potential replacements.

The Athletics

Closer: Mason Miller

2025: 15.1 IP, 30:6 K:BB (30.6 K-BB%). 0.98 WHIP, 21.5 SwStr%, 65.4 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 64 IP, 101:23 K:BB (31.2 K-BB%), 0.95 WHIP, 19.6 SwStr%, 66.6 Strike%

Showing no signs of slowing down as a top-tier closer. Use the last 365 days’ results as a template for expectations.

National League East

Atlanta Braves

Closer: Raisel Iglesias

2025: 16.1 IP, 19:4 K:BB (20.8 K-BB%), 1.41 WHIP, 14.9 SwStr%, 69 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 69.1 IP, 76:12 K:BB (24.3 K-BB%). 0.79 WHIP, 16.3 SwStr%, 70.8 Strike%

He has not performed well in terms of quality of contact this season, but his pedigree keeps him at the top of his hierarchy. Will Atlanta trade for his potential replacement if he does not bounce back?

Miami Marlins

Primary Save Share: Jesús Tinoco

2025: 13.2 IP, 9:6 K:BB (5.3 K-BB%). 1.24 WHIP, 7.8 SwStr%, 61.8 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 54.1 IP, 51:18 K:BB (15.1 K-BB%), 1.03 WHIP, 11 SwStr%, 64.7 Strike%

If Tinoco can carry over his last 365 days’ results for the remainder of the season, he could record 10 or more saves. Tread lightly if they do not.

New York Mets

Closer: Edwin Díaz

2025: 17 IP, 24:8 K:BB (22.9 K-BB%), 1.12 WHIP, 14.9 SwStr%, 59.9 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 54 IP, 83:22 K:BB (27.9 K-BB%). 1.09 WHIP, 17 SwStr%, 62.3 Strike%

As his dominant 2022 drifts from our memory banks, he’s still a very good closer, but that season may represent an outlier, not a level he can attain again.

Philadelphia Phillies

José Alvarado

2025: 19.1 IP, 24:4 K:BB (24.4 K-BB%), 1.24 WHIP, 10.5 SwStr%, 65.1 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 63.1 IP, 71:25 K:BB (17 K-BB%), 1.31 WHIP, 12.5 SwStr%, 61.5 Strike%
Last 14 Days: 4.2 IP, 3:2 K:BB (5 K-BB%), 1.50 WHIP, 7.5 SwStr%, 56.3 Strike%

Jordan Romano

2025: 15.1 IP, 17:6 K:BB (15.9 K-BB%), 1.57 WHIP, 12.9 SwStr%, 66 Strike%
Last 14 Days: 5 IP, 7:0 K:BB (38.9 K-BB%), 0.60 WHIP, 15.9 SwStr%, 68.3 Strike%

First, Rob Thomson’s “floating closer” caps the upside of any reliever for the Phillies. However, Romano has found his form in recent outings and could put together a burst of productivity like Craig Kimbrel did in 2023. Monitor both relievers’ outcomes closely over the next two weeks.

Washington Nationals

Closer: Kyle Finnegan

Last Statistcal Year: 63 IP, 39 saves, 60:23 K:BB (13.3 K-BB%), 1.48 WHIP, 10.2 SwStr%, 66.7 Strike%
2025: 15.2 IP, 13 saves, 16:7 K:BB (13.2 K-BB%), 1.40 WHIP. 8.9 SwStr%, 63.2 Strike%

If there was a poster boy for not sexy but productive at closer, it’s Finnegan, the “finnisher.”

National League Central

Chicago Cubs

Ryan Pressly

2025: 14.1 IP, 4 saves, 7:9 K:BB (-2.9 K-BB%), 1.88 WHIP, 7.1 SwStr%, 60.8 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 55.2 IP, 8 saves, 42:21 K:BB (8.8 K-BB%), 1.37 WHIP, 11 SwStr%, 64.5 Strike%

Porter Hodge

2025: 18.1 IP, 2 saves, 18:11 K:BB (8.8 K-BB%), 1.53 WHIP, 12 SwStr%, 63.8 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 61.1 IP, 11 saves, 70:30 K:BB (16.4 K-BB%), 1.08 WHIP, 13.2 SwStr%, 62.7 Strike%

Neither reliever has taken control of the closer position, making this one of the most unsettled bullpens in baseball. Can Pressly work in the strike zone and induce more whiffs? Will Hodge reduce his walk rates and not implode on occasion?

Cincinnati Reds

Closer: Emilio Pagán

2025: 20 IP, 22:6 K:BB (20.8 K-BB%), 0.85 WHIP, 15 SwStr%, 67.2 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 38.2 IP, 10 saves, 41:10 K:BB (20.3 K-BB%), 1.06 WHIP, 14.2 SwStr%, 68.9 Strike%
Last 14 Days: 5.2 IP, 1 saves, 8:4 K:BB (14.8 K-BB%), 1.76 WHIP, 16.4 SwStr%, 62.7 Strike%

Trusting Pagán comes with apprehension, but Terry Francona is loyal, helping his cause. Tony Santillan may get some ancillary save chances soon, and Luis Mey has performed well in lower-leveraged outings. Can he do the same in high-leverage ones?

Milwaukee Brewers

Closer: Trevor Megill

2025: 12.1 IP, 5 saves, 15:7 K:BB (15.1 K-BB%), 1.30 WHIP, 13.5 SwStr%, 63 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 49 IP, 22 saves, 57:18 K:BB (19.6 K-BB%), 1.10 WHIP, 14.3 SwStr%, 66.6 Strike%

His usage patterns and results have been sporadic. Can he log more than 50 innings throughout a season?

Pittsburgh Pirates

Dennis Santana

2025: 18.1 IP, 4 saves, 11:3 K:BB (11.8 K-BB%), 0.87 WHIP, 14.5 SwStr%, 71.9 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 72.1 IP, 5 saves, 67:17 K:BB (17.6 K-BB%), 1.01 WHIP, 14.4 SwStr%, 68.6 Strike%
Last 14 Days: 6 IP, 1 save, 4:0 K:BB (18.2 K-BB%), 0.83 WHIP, 13.2 SwStr%, 72.4 Strike%

David Bednar

2025: 12.2 IP, 3 saves, 19:3 K:BB (29.1 K-BB%), 1.34 WHIP, 16.4 SwStr%, 67.1 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 54.1 IP, 57:26 K:BB (12.8 K-BB%), 1.40 WHIP, 14 SwStr%, 66 Strike%
Last 14 Days: 5.2 IP, 0 saves, 10:0 K:BB (43.5 K-BB%), 0.88 WHIP, 13.7 SwStr%, 68.4 Strike%

Under Don Kelly, Santana has appeared in the ninth inning four times, but Bednar did receive a save chance against the Mets. This may be a match-up-based situation until clarity presents itself.

St. Louis Cardinals

Closer: Ryan Helsley

2025: 15 IP, 8 saves, 16:10 K:BB (9 K-BB%), 1.53 WHIP, 12.8 SwStr%, 64 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 62.1 IP, 74:22 K:BB (17.7 K-BB%), 1.28 WHIP, 16.2 SwStr%, 66.7 Strike%

Like Díaz above, his outlier season may have already taken place. Use his last 365 days’ results as a closer representation of his skills going forward.

National League West

Arizona Diamondbacks

A.J. Puk

Last Statistical Year: 65.1 IP, 7 saves, 88:13 K:BB (29.9 K-BB%), 0.81 WHIP, 16.3 SwStr%, 69.8 Strike%

Justin Martinez

2025: 10 IP, 3 saves, 11:6 K:BB (11.9 K-BB%), 1.10 WHIP, 10.4 SwStr%, 59.1 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 70 IP, 11 saves, 86:33 K:BB (17.8 K-BB%), 1.29 WHIP, 13.2 SwStr%, 62.4 Strike%

Shelby Miller

2025: 18.2 IP, 3 saves, 21:7 K:BB (18.4 K-BB%), 1.02 WHIP, 13.1 SwStr%, 66.3 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 58 IP, 5 saves, 55:14 K:BB (17.7 K-BB%), 0.97 WHIP, 11.6 SwStr%, 66.9 Strike%

It’s been a revolving door during save chances this season, and things may remain unsettled until Puk can return. Miller has been surprisingly solid and may stay in the mix even after the injured relievers return from the injured list.

Colorado Rockies

Seth Halvorsen

2025: 16.2 IP, 1 save, 17:7 K:BB (14.5 K-BB%), 1.26 WHIP, 16 SwStr%, 63.9 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 29 IP, 3 saves, 30:9 K:BB (18.3 K-BB%), 1.07 WHIP, 14.9 SwStr%, 65.2 Strike%

Zach Agnos

2025: 11 IP, 2 saves, 5:1 K:BB (9.1 K-BB%), 1.09 WHIP, 16.5 SwStr%, 62.2 Strike%

Just when it seemed like Agnos was taking over the preferred save share, the team changed managers, coinciding with Halvorsen’s improved performance in recent outings. He’s the preferred option right now for the few save chances this team generates.

Los Angeles Dodgers

Primary Save Share: Tanner Scott

2025: 19.2 IP, 9 saves, 19:1 K:BB (26.1 K-BB%), 0.76 WHIP, 12.9 SwStr%, 73 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 75.2 IP, 27 saves, 87:21 K:BB (22.8 K-BB%). 0.95 WHIP, 16.6 SwStr%, 70 Strike%

It’s been an intriguing transformation for Scott with his new team. He’s produced fewer strikeouts but is working with better command and has been very productive while receiving the “brunt” of save chances.

San Diego Padres

Closer: Robert Suarez

2025: 19 IP, 15 saves, 21:8 K:BB (18.6 K-BB%), 0.79 WHIP, 11.2 SwStr%, 66.4 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 65.2 IP, 64:20 K:BB (16.6 K-BB%), 1.10 WHIP, 11.9 SwStr%, 66.5 Strike%

His results tailed off in the second half of last year, and he proved his critics (me included) wrong with a hot start this season. However, note his previous 365-day WHIP and K-BB percentage; these are new baselines as we move forward.

San Francisco Giants

Closer: Ryan Walker

2025: 15 IP, 7 saves, 15:7 K:BB (11.6 K-BB%), 1.53 WHIP, 7.5 SwStr%, 59.9 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 73 IP, 17 saves, 84:21 K:BB (22 K-BB%), 0.95 WHIP, 10.9 SwStr%, 65.9 Strike%

Camilo Doval

2025: 19.2 IP, 5 saves, 14:7 K:BB (9.5 K-BB%). 0.76 WHIP, 12.8 SwStr%, 62.3 Strike%
Last Statistical Year: 62.2 IP, 22 saves, 71:35 K:BB (13 K-BB%), 1.37 WHIP, 13.3 SwStr%, 60.3 Strike%

In a terrific piece of irony, it feels like neither reliever performs well when the other does. Walker remains the closer, but if he struggles with contact in the coming weeks, his hold on the role will remain tenuous.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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Thanks for being part of the Closer Monkey community. Stay safe, and be well.

Statistical Credits:

Month in Review for Relievers | March/April 2025

Assessing reliever performances through the first month-plus comes with apprehension because small sample sizes can be misleading. Focusing on the data and some underlying indicators helps fantasy players remain ahead of the competition.

Total Saves

2025: 243 saves recorded between March and April
2024: 248 saves recorded between March and April
2023: 210 saves recorded between March and April

Blown Saves

2025: 126 blown saves between March and April
2024: 132 blown saves between March and April
2023: 118 blown saves between March and April

Save Chances

2025: 369 save chances between March and April
2024: 380 save chances between March and April
2023: 328 save chances between March and April

Saves and blown saves are slightly down when compared with last year, but offense has been on the rise, affecting ratios:

2025: 3,979 runs scored between March and April
2024: 3,408 runs scored between March and April
2023: 3,744 runs scored between March and April

Even worse news lies in how saves are being dispersed on many teams. This season, 85 different pitchers have recorded a save. Last year, 69 pitchers recorded at least one save in this timeframe; in 2023, 72 pitchers notched a save by the end of April.

Individual Results and Trends

At the end of April, there were four relievers with at least eight saves without a blown save:

Robert Suarez (SD) – 12
Andrés Muñoz (SEA) – 11
Mason Miller (ATH) – 9
Josh Hader (HOU) – 8

These four closers are off to strong starts. But did they all record a WHIP below one, a K-BB percentage greater than 23, a swinging strike percentage over 15, and a strike percentage above 66?

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ksTC3/1/

Miller and Hader met this criteria, but the other two did not. Some intriguing names on this list, including Aroldis Chapman, who has carried over his strong second half from last year into the first month-plus of this season.

Shifting into the leaders at the end of April, these relievers recorded the most SOLDS (saves plus holds):

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/blxo0/1/

And the leaders in holds:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/8ImQ9/1/

Two key indicators for sustained success by relievers are K-BB percentage and swinging strike rate. Leaders from each category are as follows:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/pPUv3/2/

Strikeouts and WHIP (walks plus hits per inning pitched) should also be monitored closely by fantasy managers. Here are the leaders in these categories during the first month-plus this season:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/L8jqW/1/

It’s been a tremendous first-month providing information for the Closer Monkey community. More volatility lies on the horizon, so stay safe and be well until these situations arise.

Statistical Credits:

Closer Monkey Updated Rankings | 4.7.2025

Rankings remain fluid, especially in the world of closers. However, we have updated rankings for saves and SOLDS before our second full week of contests ensues. But first, some risers and closers on the proverbial “hot seat.”

Three Relievers on the Rise

Robert Suarez (SD): Pitching with renewed vigor and a wider arsenal, he’s converted all four save chances with a miniscule 0.25 WHIP while striking out six against one walk (35.7 K-BB percentage) through four contests. He’s not allowed a run, and his 1.44 SIERA confirms his strong start.

José Alvarado (PHI): Healthy and throwing with improved velocity this season, Alvarado has emerged as the preferred save share for the Phillies. He’s already recorded a win, two saves, and one hold with 10 strikeouts against two walks (38.1 K-BB percentage) through five innings.

Luke Jackson (TEX): He’s converted his last five save chances while recording a 0.80 WHIP with four strikeouts against one walk over five innings. He’s attacking hitters in the strike zone, posting a 75 percent strike rate, and if he commands his four-seam fastball, it sets up his slider (14 SwStr%) and his curve (18.2 SwStr%).

Relievers on the “Hot Seat”

Ryan Pressly (CHC): After six appearances, the good news is that he’s recorded a win and three saves. However, his 4.50 ERA accompanies a 6.65 SIERA, a 2.50 WHIP, and a negative 13.3 K-BB percentage. He’s been tentative in the strike zone, and his 4.2 swinging strike percentage results in too much contact (88.6 percent contact rate allowed).

Jordan Romano (PHI): Highlighted in today’s Monkey Bytes, he’s working with reduced velocity and a bloated 15.75 ERA. Hope lies in his 4.46 SIERA, but that’s still substandard for a high-leverage reliever. He will work in lower leveraged situations, but Orion Kerkering may “Wally Pipp” him for the top right-handed leverage option in this leverage ladder.

Updated Top 40 for Saves

*Rank*	*Relievers*
1	Mason Miller
2	Josh Hader
3	Robert Suarez
4	Ryan Helsley
5	Emmanuel Clase
6	Devin Williams
7	Edwin Díaz
8	Raisel Iglesias
9	Ryan Walker
10	Jeff Hoffman
11	Tanner Scott
12	Andrés Muñoz
13	José Alvarado
14	Kenley Jansen
15	Pete Fairbanks
16	Trevor Megill
17	Aroldis Chapman
18	Jhoan Durán
19	Kyle Finnegan
20	Félix Bautista
21	Luke Jackson
22	Justin Martinez
23	A.J. Puk
24	Carlos Estévez
25	Seth Halvorsen
26	Ryan Pressly
27	Dennis Santana
28	Anthony Bender
29	Tommy Kahnle
30	Emilio Pagán
31	Blake Treinen
32	Jason Adam
33	Griffin Jax
34	Lucas Erceg
35	Porter Hodge
36	Bryan Abreu
37	Chris Martin
38	Yimi García
39	Yennier Cano
40	Luke Weaver

Just Missed:

Tony Santillan (CIN)
Ben Joyce (LAA)
Orion Kerkering (PHI)
Justin Slaten (BOS)
Jeremiah Estrada (SD)
Edwin Uceta (TB)
Mike Clevinger; Cam Booser (CHW)

Stash Candidates

Graham Ashcraft (CIN)
Abner Uribe (MIL)
Mason Montgomery (TB)
Justin Lawrence (PIT)

Updated Top 75 for SOLDS

*Rank*	*Reliever*
1	Mason Miller
2	Josh Hader
3	Robert Suarez
4	Ryan Helsley
5	Emmanuel Clase
6	Devin Williams
7	Edwin Díaz
8	Raisel Iglesias
9	Ryan Walker
10	Jeff Hoffman
11	José Alvarado
12	Jason Adam
13	Tanner Scott
14	Justin Martinez
15	A.J. Puk
16	Andrés Muñoz
17	Bryan Abreu
18	Jeremiah Estrada
19	Luke Weaver
20	Aroldis Chapman
21	Lucas Erceg
22	Griffin Jax
23	Yennier Cano
24	Ben Joyce
25	Yimi García
26	Chris Martin
27	Robert Garcia
28	Luke Jackson
29	Trevor Megill
30	Tyler Rogers
31	Orion Kerkering
32	Jhoan Durán
33	Cade Smith
34	Tony Santillan
35	Kenley Jansen
36	Pete Fairbanks
37	Mason Montgomery
38	Hunter Harvey
39	Carlos Estévez
40	Félix Bautista
41	Porter Hodge
42	Cole Sands
43	Kyle Finnegan
44	Phil Maton
45	JoJo Romero
46	Blake Treinen
47	Camilo Doval
48	Dennis Santana
49	Reed Garrett
50	Edwin Uceta
51	Matt Strahm
52	Alex Vesia
53	Justin Slaten
54	Tyler Holton
55	Tommy Kahnle
56	Anthony Banda
57	Justin Sterner
58	Kirby Yates
59	Chad Green
60	Erik Miller
61	Mark Leiter Jr.
62	Seranthony Domínguez
63	Shelby Miller
64	Ryan Pressly
65	Keegan Akin
66	A.J. Minter
67	Anthony Bender
68	Paul Sewald
69	Hunter Gaddis
70	Ben Casparius
71	Jacob Webb
72	Randy Rodríguez
73	Bryan King
74	Abner Uribe
75	Gabe Speier

Relievers on the Rise

Justin Sterner (ATH): He’s been earning more leverage outings and posted two holds through five appearances. In them, he has a 0.80 WHIP with eight strikeouts versus two walks (27.8 K-BB percentage) and a 20.4 swinging strike percentage. It’s a limited sample, but he has a swinging strike percentage over 18 with all three of his pitches: four-seam fastball (18.5 SwStr%), cutter (23.8 SwStr%), and his slider (22.2 SwStr%).

Matt Strahm (PHI): His underlying data has not been terrific, but he will receive more leverage work with Romano struggling. Last season, Strahm recorded six wins, three saves, and 18 holds with a 0.75 WHIP. If he were dropped in your SOLDS league, he’s worth adding.

Tony Santillan (CIN): While his usage patterns annoy those seeking saves in the Reds’ bullpen, he has been a reliable leverage option for first-year manager Terry Francona. He has a 0.75 WHIP with seven strikeouts versus two walks (26.3 K-BB percentage) through five games, spanning 5.1 innings.

Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community. Stay safe, and be well.

Statistical Credits:

Updated 2025 Bullpen Hierarchies

Roles may be changed or redefined, and injuries will alter a team’s bullpen hierarchy. However, with Spring Training games in full swing, it’s time for our updated hierarchies. These are subject to change and will be updated on our team pages until Opening Day.

American League East

Baltimore Orioles – “The Mountain” will return as the closer this season. Félix Bautista recorded 33 saves with 110 strikeouts against 26 walks (35.4 K-BB%) in 2023 before undergoing Tommy John surgery. He’s been throwing live bullpen sessions and will anchor this bullpen in 2025. His stock will rise appreciably with a strong spring, but fantasy managers will focus on his command.

Updated Hierarchy: Félix Bautista | Yennier Cano | Seranthony Domínguez

Boston Red Sox – Forecasting the Red Sox closer comes with apprehension. Although the team signed Liam Hendriks for the role in 2025, he suffered a setback with “forearm soreness,” preventing his return this season. Can he remain healthy throughout 2025? Will he be effective? Those in keeper leagues should stash Justin Slaten. He flourished as a Rule 5 pick with a 1.01 WHIP and 22.3 K-BB percentage as a rookie. A wild card in this mix could be Garrett Whitlock. His splits by role:

Whitlock as a SP: 109 IP, 102:23 K:BB (17.4 K-BB%), .328 weighted on-base average, 1.27 WHIP
Whitlock as an RP: 132.2 IP, 150:29 K:BB (22.7 K-BB%), .273 weighted on-base average, 1.05 WHIP

As of today, pedigree propels Hendriks atop the hierarchy, but his hold will be tenuous unless he’s terrific at Spring Training. The team also added Aroldis Chapman. Boston needs a left-handed reliever with velocity, and he could also factor into save situations if the team takes a match-up-based approach.

Updated Hierarchy: *Liam Hendriks | *Aroldis Chapman | *Justin Slaten

*= closer-by-committee

New York Yankees – Trading for Devin Williams clarifies the closer position, but he also helped change the team’s archaic facial hair policy. “The Airbender” was terrific after missing the first four months of the season but converted 14 of 15 save chances while being scoreless in 20 of his 22 regular season appearances, recording 38 strikeouts against 11 walks. Luke Weaver will be the stopper (HLR) with an adapted arsenal. He’s one of five relievers with at least 100 strikeouts this season. He’s also converted all four save chances with six wins and 22 holds through 61 appearances.

Updated Hierarchy: Devin Williams | Luke Weaver | Ian Hamilton

Tampa Bay Rays – Despite losing Pete Fairbanks, the Rays bullpen flourished in the second half. When he’s healthy, he remains the closer. He’s recorded 48 saves over the last two seasons but produced a reduced K-BB percentage and swinging strike rate in 2024. Health remains his hurdle. He begins 2025 as the closer, but change may be afoot as the season ensues. Dynasty league players should monitor Edwin Uceta and Hunter Bigge closely.

Updated Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Garrett Cleavinger

Toronto Blue Jays – Signing Jeff Hoffman to a three-year contract puts him atop the revamped hierarchy. He’s been one of baseball’s best relievers over the previous two seasons. Toronto also re-signed Yimi García and has Chad Green through the end of 2025, rounding out the high-leverage triumvirate.

Updated Hierarchy: Jeff Hoffman | Yimi García | Chad Green

American League Central

Chicago White Sox – After enduring the most losses in MLB history, prognosticating a closer for a team in this steep rebuilding process remains challenging. Justin Anderson ended the season as the highest-leveraged reliever. Since wins may be difficult again, getting a veteran reliever with “closer” experience would benefit the rebuilding. However, the team was not aggressive in the free-agent reliever market. Keeper league players hope Prelander Berroa (left his first spring outing with elbow soreness) or Jordan Leasure improve in 2025. Also keep tabs on non-roster invitees, James Karinchak and Mike Clevinger, who closed in college per Scott Merkin.

Updated Hierarchy: *Mike Clevinger | *Justin Anderson | *Fraser Ellard

*= closer-by-committee

Cleveland Guardians – Since the start of 2022, no reliever has recorded more saves than Emmanuel Clase. He’s secured 40-plus saves in the last three years with a 0.84 WHIP over 221.2 innings. Although he’s on a team-friendly deal, it escalates in 2025 and reaches ten million in 2027. For a franchise that prefers keeping payroll down, he could be moved when his stock’s at its peak. Stay tuned. Dynasty league players will track Cade Smith, Andrew Walters, and Franco Aleman.

Updated Hierarchy: Emmanuel Clase | Paul Sewald | Cade Smith

Detroit Tigers – A.J. Hinch mixed and matched with aplomb while getting his team into the playoffs. Jason Foley led the team with 28 saves. Tyler Holton recorded seven wins, eight saves, and 14 holds across 66 appearances. How far the team goes and how the bullpen performs may determine how it’s structured in 2025. Beau Brieske and Will Vest emerged as the preferred right-handed options in the playoffs. Detroit also signed Tommy Kahnle and John Brebbia in the off-season. Last, Alex Lange could regain the closer role if his rehab goes well and his command improves during his 60-day injured list stint.

Updated Hierarchy: *Beau Brieske | *Tommy Kahnle | *Jason Foley

*= closer-by-committee

Kansas City Royals – Although most believed Hunter Harvey would usurp James McArthur’s closer role, Lucas Erceg emerged after his acquisition. In his 23 games with the Royals, he converted 11 of his 13 save opportunities with 31 strikeouts against three walks across 25 innings. However, the team also signed Carlos Estévez to a two-year, $22.2 million contract and announced the team would share save situations in the upcoming season. We project Estévez as the preferred save share, with Erceg being the “stopper.”

Updated Hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | Hunter Harvey

Minnesota Twins – What felt like a slam dunk has become murky. Jhoan Durán took a step back, though it’s possible his oblique injury affected his performance throughout the season. He should get a mulligan for 2024, but his spring performance should be tracked closely. Griffin Jax emerged as a trusted high-leverage option, posting a robust 95 strikeouts against 15 walks (29 K-BB percentage) in 2024. Stay tuned.

Updated Hierarchy: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands

American League West

A’s – Many did not believe Mason Miller would be used as the closer this season. All he did was set the franchise record for saves by a rookie with 28, including throwing the last pitch at Oakland Coliseum. Reports indicate he will remain in this role moving forward, which makes him a terrific target for 2025. He recorded 104 strikeouts with a 0.88 WHIP through 65 innings across 55 appearances.

Updated Hierarchy: Mason Miller | José Leclerc | Tyler Ferguson

Houston Astros – With Josh Hader signed on a long-term deal, it’s no surprise he’s the projected closer for 2025. After trading Ryan Pressly, look for Bryan Abreu as the eighth-inning option, but the rest of the bullpen will be a work in progress.

Updated Hierarchy: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Forrest Whitley

Los Angeles Angels – Good news will come in two parts for 2025: an emerging Ben Joyce and the return of Robert Stephenson. Joyce introduced a “splinker” into his arsenal on June 16 and produced 25 scoreless appearances in his last 27 games with 33 strikeouts against 11 walks across 31 innings. The Angels signed Kenley Jansen to a one-year contract to provide Joyce with more runway for the future. He takes over as the closer and can tutor Joyce on the rigors of becoming one in the future.

Updated Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Ben Joyce | Brock Burke

Seattle Mariners – Forced into the closer role because of injuries throughout the leverage ladder, Andrés Muñoz converted 22 of 27 save chances with a 0.96 WHIP through 57.1 innings. He pitched through lingering back tightness and elbow soreness at the end of the season. Returns by Matt Brash and Gregory Santos will be pivotal for the team’s progress, but Muñoz remains atop the hierarchy, barring injury, on Opening Day.

Updated Hierarchy: Andrés Muñoz | Gregory Santos | Collin Snider

Texas Rangers – Forced into a complete rebuild in the bullpen, the team signed Chris Martin, traded for Robert Garcia, and hopes Marc Church can emerge as a leverage option in 2025. It feels like an offseason of half-measures for a team with playoff aspirations. Plan on Martin getting the first save chance, but another pitcher may emerge as the closer during the season. Jon Gray will be a wild card or flamethrower, and Emiliano Teodo may enter the picture later this year.

Updated Hierarchy: *Chris Martin | *Robert Garcia | Jacob Webb

*= closer-by-committee

National League East

Atlanta Braves – Since his debut with Atlanta on August 5, 2022, Raisel Iglesias has logged 150 appearances, posting a 1.86 ERA (second lowest in this timeframe) with 11 wins, 67 saves, and a 0.907 WHIP. He will be entering the final year of his contract in 2025, which means change may be coming at the closer position in 2026, but for next year, he remains a reliable target for saves. The bigger question is, who sets up for him with Joe Jiménez sidelined after undergoing knee surgery?

Updated Hierarchy: Raisel Iglesias | Pierce Johnson | Dylan Lee

Miami Marlins – After the team traded Tanner Scott, Calvin Faucher received the majority share of saves until he was sidelined with an injury. Jesús Tinoco took over as the most trusted high-leverage option over the last six weeks, and this may be a spring battle for roles. However, there’s no clear plan in place for the franchise, making the closer role speculative at best. Stay tuned.

Updated Hierarchy: *Calvin Faucher | Jesús Tinoco | Anthony Bender

*= closer-by-committee

New York Mets – Riding a second-half resurgence buoyed by throwing more four-seam fastballs and being less reliant on his slider, Edwin Díaz reestablished himself as a top-tier closer. Can he maintain this throughout the entirety of 2025? Here’s hoping so. He will be a top target in preseason drafts and rankings.

Updated Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | A.J. Minter | Reed Garrett

Philadelphia Phillies – After using the “floating closer” concept most of the season, Rob Thomson used Carlos Estévez as his closer after the trade deadline. However, Estévez and Jeff Hoffman departed via free agency. Taking a shot on Jordan Romano as the replacement appears risky. His velocity this spring will determine his effectiveness during save situations. If he struggles, will the Phillies turn to Orion Kerkering as the closer?

Updated Hierarchy: Jordan Romano | Orion Kerkering | Matt Strahm

Washington Nationals – In a surprise off-season move, the team declined arbitration on Kyle Finnegan, letting their closer enter free agency. Washington signed Jorge López and Lucas Sims to one-year, three-million-dollar deals. It also hopes Jose A. Ferrer will be ready as its high-leverage left-handed option, capable of closing out games when needed. (UPDATED 2/25) Per Robert Murray, the Nationals agreed on a one-year, six million dollar deal with Finnegan, who will resume his closer role with the team.

Updated Hierarchy: Kyle Finnegan | Jorge López | Jose A. Ferrer

National League Central

Chicago Cubs – Porter Hodge ended 2024 with 18 scoreless appearances over his last 19 games, converting eight of nine save chances with 26 strikeouts against nine walks. However, he projects as the HLR after the team traded for Ryan Pressly. He waived his no-trade clause for the chance at closing games on the precipice of free agency.

Updated Hierarchy: Ryan Pressly | Porter Hodge | Ryan Brasier

Cincinnati Reds – Streaky in his performances in high-leverage events and spotty at times with his command, Alexis Díaz remains a fantasy enigma. He’s recorded 55 saves in the last two years, but his declining K-BB percentage and rising WHIP do not foster trust from fantasy managers. He projects as the Opening Day closer, but his potential volatility makes him a risky investment for 2025. Keep tabs on Scott Barlow, Tony Santillan, and how the team uses Graham Ashcraft this season.

Updated Hierarchy: Alexis Díaz | Scott Barlow | Tony Santillan

Milwaukee Brewers – Trading Devin Williams paves the way for Trevor Megill as the closer entering 2025. He did struggle in the second-half but converted 20 of 22 save opportunities while his teammate was on the injured list last year. Abner Uribe remains on the periphery of the leverage ladder and if he improves his command, could be a factor for saves as the season progresses. Those in keeper leagues should track Craig Yoho and Jacob Miriorowski’s progress closely this spring.

Updated Hierarchy: Trevor Megill | Joel Payamps | Abner Uribe

Pittsburgh Pirates – What seemed like an easy prognostication at the beginning of 2024 has become much more complex as it has concluded. David Bednar was removed from the closer role and was ineffective this season after undergoing two oblique injuries. He’s dealt with side or back injuries in three of the past four seasons. Can he rebound? We side with yes, but a strong spring would ease concerns about 2025 for the “Renegade.”

Updated Hierarchy: David Bednar | Dennis Santana | Colin Holderman

St. Louis Cardinals – A revamped bullpen anchored by Ryan Helsley resulted in a franchise record 49 saves. Andrew Kittredge and JoJo Reyes performed well in set-up roles as well. Can Helsley repeat this production level in 2025, and will he be traded? More significant questions will be who sets up for him.

Updated Hierarchy: Ryan Helsley | Ryan Fernandez | Matthew Liberatore

National League West

Arizona Diamondbacks – Limping toward the finish line, there were more questions than answers about the bullpen at the end of 2024. A.J. Puk suffered an ugly loss in a “must-win” game, and Justin Martinez showed flashes of brilliance mixed with traffic-induced save situations. Based on in-season usage patterns, Martinez should open 2025 as the closer, but a match-up-based approach could also be deployed. Hopefully, clarity will emerge this spring.

Updated Hierarchy: *Justin Martinez | *A.J. Puk | Kevin Ginkel

*= closer-by-committee

Colorado Rockies – The Rockies had a revolving door at the closer position this season. At the beginning of the season, Justin Lawrence and Tyler Kinley were the top two relievers in the hierarchy. Victor Vodnik emerged as the closer in early July until he landed on the injured list in late August. Kinley reemerged, converting all six save chances until he was on the injured list in September. Rookie Seth Halvorsen took over the top of the hierarchy, and a spring battle will decide who gets the gig on Opening Day. Early reports speculate on a three-reliever camp competition between Halvorsen, Vodnik, and Kinley.

Updated Hierarchy: *Seth Halvorsen | *Victor Vodnik | *Tyler Kinley

*= closer-by-committee

Los Angeles Dodgers – Throwing caution into the wind, the team signed Tanner Scott to a four-year contract and announced he would receive the “brunt” of save opportunities. With injuries to Michael Kopech and Evan Phillips, Los Angeles also re-signed postseason hero Blake Treinen and free agent Kirby Yates. There is less fluidity in the leverage ladder, with only Alex Vesia possessing minor league options, but more depth at the onset of 2025.

Updated Hierarchy: *Tanner Scott | *Kirby Yates | Blake Treinen

*= closer-by-committee

San Diego Padres – Robert Suarez was dominant in the first half, throwing his four-seam fastball and converting 22 of his first 24 save chances. Fatigue and predictability affected his results in the second half. One should not run from the Padres closer, but a more diverse use of his arsenal will prevent further migration toward the mean. He will be the closer on Opening Day, but his runway was reduced slightly by the second-half struggles ahead of the playoffs and his potential opt-out clause at the end of 2025. Jason Adam and Jeremiah Estrada remain sneaky options for saves later this season.

Updated Hierarchy: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

San Francisco Giants – It’s too early to give up on Camilo Doval as a reliever, and it’s tough to trust him next season after struggling with a rising WHIP and declining K-BB percentage. Things become trickier with the emergence of Ryan Walker. He took over as the closer and converted all ten save chances from August 10-on with 28 strikeouts versus five walks during his last 17 appearances, spanning 19.2 innings. Doval may need a change of scenery, and Walker has been confirmed as the closer by manager, Bob Melvin.

Updated Hierarchy: Ryan Walker | Tyler Rogers | Camilo Doval

Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community. I am exploring hosting the premium subscriptions (ad-free) on an alternate site than Constant Contact, so please hold off on signing up until I know. The same goes for signing up for the free daily emails; I will know more by March 1.

Statistical Credits:

Under the Hood: Alzolay and Hader outlooks moving forward

This week’s under the hood sets its sights on the early struggles by Adbert Alzolay, removing him from the closer role in Chicago in the near-term, and Josh Hader suffering from some bad luck in his results.

Adbert Alzolay, Chicago Cubs

Not much has gone right for Alzolay, he’s already suffered more blown saves (four) in 2024 through 11 games than he did last year (three) over 58 appearances. He’s given up four home runs in only 31 batted ball events and gave up five all last year across 168 batted ball events. He’s matched last season’s home run total with his slider (three) in only 14 batted balls in play.

He’s not throwing with a drastic reduction in velocity and increased his first-strike percent rate. However, when diving into his results on Statcast, one notices an increase in sweet spot percentage by over five percentage points, a boost in his expected batting average (.278), and a 5.02 expected ERA (xERA).

In terms of quality of contact, he’s struggling:

3.2 solid percentage allowed plus 12.9 percent barrel rate = 16.1 good contact allowed
0 percent weak contact and 0 percent pop-ups = 0 percent poor contact-induced

Taking this a step further, here’s his 10-game rolling chart from beginning of last year through his last outing, using strikeout percentage, walk rate, swinging strike percentage, and contact rate allowed:

One notices some shifts in his outcomes during the second half before he landed on the injured list and at the start of this season. With this in mind, here are his splits in some key leverage categories:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/R2jww/1/

If he retakes the ninth inning for Cubs relies on his slider. Comparing his outcomes by pitch, the lack of whiffs, and increased expected results against his most used pitch accounts for his early struggles:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/vUjx0/2/

Focus on his slider over the next two weeks, and his usage patterns. It’s tough being patient with a struggling closer, but if he finds his past production with the pitch, better days may happen. However, it’s a tough needle for a reliever to thread during the season.

Josh Hader, Houston Astros

Expecting a repeat of his 1.28 ERA from 2023 would not be realistic, but seeing Hader’s 8.38 ERA entering game play on Monday, April 22 seems like some sort of cruel joke. While sorting out qualified relievers by ERA minus SIERA, he ranks eighth in bad luck with a 5.95 run difference between the metrics. He owns a 2.43 SIERA, almost in line with his 2.34 expected ERA (xERA) from last year.

In fact, his SIERA and 2024 xERA (3.35) set a nice baseline of expectations for his results going forward. Despite his inflated ERA, he owns a 25.6 K-BB percentage, a 14.9 percent swinging strike rate, and a 64.1 strike percentage through his first 11 appearances.

As upsetting as his ERA may be, his usage patterns under first year manager Joe Espada proves more confusing. Hader’s appeared in four games with a lead, in three tied games, and worked in four games with his team trailing. Using Baseball Reference’s leverage ratings, he’s turned in four high-leverage outings, two medium leverage appearances, and pitched in five low leverage contests. Not ideal.

Viewing his underlying data from Statcast, his barrel rate remains in line with last year but he’s allowed a spike in hard hit percentage (45.5 percent) versus his career 32.9 percent barrel rate allowed. Hope lies in his .223 xBA with the sinker against his current .375 batting average against with the pitch, and a .278 expected slugging (xSLG) versus a .458 slugging percent allowed by the pitch. Things migrate toward the mean, and his results will even out.

It’s tough seeing a closer with such a high price point struggle, but focus on his past production with his pitches, and know things will improve:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/SoiKP/1/

Houston gets a break with the schedule over the next two weeks, here’s hoping Hader and his leverage teammates turn the tide with regression working in their favor.

Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community, until next time, stay safe and be well.

Tiered Rankings for SOLDS, April 5

Once again, noting these rankings remain fluid, here’s an updated tiered look at relievers in SOLDS formats. Those in leagues with holds as a separate category can use this list as well.

Tier One

Emmanuel Clase (CLE)
Evan Phillips (LAD)
Edwin Díaz (NYM)
Andrés Muñoz (SEA)
David Bednar (PIT)
Raisel Iglesias (ATL)
Pete Fairbanks (TBR)
Ryan Helsley (STL)
Josh Hader (HOU)
Griffin Jax (MIN)

Tier Two

Craig Kimbrel (BAL)
Adbert Alzolay (CHC)
Robert Suarez (SDP)
Jason Foley (DET)
Carlos Estévez (LAA)
Clay Holmes (NYY)
Abner Uribe (MIL)
Kyle Finnegan (WSH)
Alexis Díaz (CIN)
Camilo Doval (SFG)
Kenley Jansen (BOS)
Kevin Ginkel (ARI)

Tier Three

José Alvarado (PHI)
Aroldis Chapman (PIT)
Chris Martin (BOS)
Tanner Scott (MIA)
A.J. Minter (ATL)
Giovanny Gallegos (STL)
Jason Adam (TBR)
Joel Payamps (MIL)
Jeff Hoffman (PHI)
Hunter Harvey (WSH)
Hector Neris (CHC)
Ryan Pressly (HOU)
Ian Hamilton (NYY)
Yennier Cano (BAL)
Bryan Abreu (HOU)
Mason Miller (OAK)

Tier Four

Pierce Johnson (ATL)
Lucas Sims (CIN)
Fernando Cruz (CIN)
Scott Barlow (CLE)
Daniel Hudson (LAD)
Justin Lawrence (COL)
Kirby Yates (TEX)
David Robertson (TEX)
José Leclerc (TEX)
Brock Stewart (MIN)
Tyler Rogers (SFG)
Shelby Miller (DET)
JoJo Romero (STL)
Andrew Chafin (DET)
Ryne Stanek (SEA)
Yimi García (TOR)
Taylor Rogers (SFG)

Tier Five

Michael Kopech (CWS)
Gabe Speier (SEA)
John Schreiber (KCR)
Ryan Borucki (PIT)
Will Smith (KCR)
Chad Green (TOR)
James McArthur (KCR)
Matt Moore (LAA)
Ryan Thompson (ARI)
Julian Merryweather (CHC)
Emilio Pagán (CIN)
Joe Kelly (LAD)
Josh Sborz (TEX)
Gregory Soto (PHI)

Tiered Rankings for Saves, April 5

Noting these rankings remain fluid, here’s an updated tiered look at relievers for saves-only formats entering the weekend.

Tier One

Emmanuel Clase (CLE)
Edwin Díaz (NYM)
Evan Phillips (LAD)
David Bednar (PIT)
Raisel Iglesias (ATL)
Pete Fairbanks (TBR)
Ryan Helsley (STL)
Josh Hader (HOU)

Tier Two

Craig Kimbrel (BAL)
Andrés Muñoz (SEA)
Adbert Alzolay (CHC)
Robert Suarez (SDP)
Carlos Estévez (LAA)
Clay Holmes (NYY)
Abner Uribe (MIL)
Jason Foley (DET)
Kyle Finnegan (WSH)
Alexis Díaz (CIN)
Camilo Doval (SFG)
Kenley Jansen (BOS)
Kevin Ginkel (ARI)

Tier Three

Griffin Jax (MIN)
José Alvarado (PHI)
Tanner Scott (MIA)
Mason Miller (OAK)
José Leclerc (TEX)
Michael Kopech (CWS)
Justin Lawrence (COL)
Aroldis Chapman (PIT)
Brock Stewart (MIN)
Joel Payamps (MIL)
Giovanny Gallegos (STL)
Daniel Hudson (LAD)
Will Smith (KCR)

Tier Four

Hunter Harvey (WSH)
Ian Hamilton (NYY)
Ryan Pressly (HOU)
Chris Martin (BOS)
Jason Adam (TBR)
Shelby Miller (DET)
David Robertson (TEX)
Kirby Yates (TEX)
Bryan Abreu (HOU)
Yennier Cano (BAL)
Chad Green (TOR)
Yimi García (TOR)
John Schreiber (KCR)
James McArthur (KCR)
Jeff Hoffman (PHI)
Scott Barlow (CLE)
Dany Jiménez (OAK)

Tier Five

A.J. Minter (ATL)
Lucas Sims (CIN)
Fernando Cruz (CIN)
Hector Neris (CHC)
José Soriano (LAA)
John Brebbia (CWS)
Anthony Bender (MIA)
Yuki Matsui (SDP)
Josh Sborz (TEX)

Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community.

Monkey Bytes | July 12

Friday’s 16-game slate resulted in eight reliever wins, with one accompanied by a blown save (Jake Bird), and converted six saves while suffering six losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB	BF
Robert Suarez	28	13	76.9	15.4	1:0	3
Emmanuel Clase	20	10	70	0	0:0	4
Camilo Doval	15	14	64.3	0	0:1	4
Jhoan Durán	15	16	68.8	25	2:0	4
Raisel Iglesias	10	14	57.1	0	1:0	3
Victor Vodnik	2	27	59.3	22.2	3:1	5

As a result of last night’s action, Atlanta’s and Colorado’s hierarchies have been adjusted, along with the Angels getting a slight tweak in its set-up relievers.

For the save streamers, a potentially busy day:

Vulture Save Options for July 12

Daysbel Hernández (ATL): Iglesias has pitched in back-to-back games.
Lucas Erceg (KC): Estévez has worked in three of the previous four days, throwing 43 pitches.
Yariel Rodríguez (TOR): Hoffman tossed 33 pitches during a non-save appearance last night.
Wandy Peralta (SD): All four leverage relievers (Suarez, Adam, Morejon, Estrada) have pitched in consecutive contests.

Vulture Save Stashes for July 13

Cole Sands (MIN): If Durán and Jax pitch today, it’s back-to-back games.
Randy Rodríguez (SF): If Doval gets used in today’s game, it will be consecutive appearances.
Ryan Zeferjahn (LAA): If Jansen works today, it will be back-to-back outings.

Here are the leverage events of interest from Friday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Atlanta Braves – Shutting the door on his tenth save and first since June 24, Raisel Iglesias retired the Cardinals’ 2-3-4 hitters in order, including a game-ending strikeout against Willson Contreras, sealing a one-run win. He threw 14 pitches (57.1 Strike%) without a whiff.

This extended his scoreless streak to 13 games, during which he’s posted a 0.598 WHIP with 16 strikeouts against one walk (35.7 K-BB%).

Pierce Johnson issued a walk during a scoreless eighth for his seventh hold.
Rafael Montero allowed a hit during a scoreless seventh, securing his sixth hold.
Austin Cox allowed a walk in a scoreless sixth, notching his first hold.
Enyel De Los Santos collected his third win, logging two scoreless frames and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: *Raisel Iglesias | *Dylan Lee | *Daysbel Hernández

*= closer-by-committee

Chicago White Sox – (Game 1) – Taking over a tied game at the top of the fifth, Tyler Alexander suffered his ninth loss, allowing two hits, including Carlos Santana’s two-run home run at the top of the sixth, while logging 3.1 innings.

(Game 2) – Mike Vasil logged three scoreless frames and stranded both “place” runners in extra innings, issuing three walks and striking out two. He earned his fourth win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the 11th.

Brandon Eisert retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the eighth.
Grant Taylor took over in the seventh versus the Guardians’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket, allowing Nolan Jones’ lead-off single, retiring José Ramírez via pop-out, but gave up another single, and Angel Martínez’s RBI double while recording two strikeouts. He threw 24 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (12.5 SwStr%).

Hierarchy Remains: *Grant Taylor | *Jordan Leasure | Steven Wilson

*= highest-leveraged reliever (Taylor)

Cleveland Guardians – (Game 1) – Working around Chase Meidroth’s lead-off single, Emmanuel Clase retired the next three batters, preserving the two-run lead while converting his 20th save. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) without a whiff.

He has whittled down his ratios after a rough patch in April and has been scoreless in nine of his last 11 appearances, securing five of six save chances with a 0.855 WHIP and eight strikeouts against two walks through 11.2 innings.

Hunter Gaddis notched his 19th hold, walking and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
Cade Smith tossed a clean seventh, recording his 17th hold.

(Game 2) – Matt Festa stranded a runner and retired his only batter in the seventh for his seventh hold. Paul Sewald entered at the bottom of the eighth, issuing a lead-off walk, followed by a one-out single, and a sacrifice fly, scored an unearned, game-tying run, resulting in his second blown save.

Nic Enright logged 1.1 clean frames and recorded three strikeouts.
Kolby Allard suffered his first loss. He worked 1.1 innings, yielding a hit, an unearned run, and issuing two intentional walks across the tenth and 11th innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Colorado Rockies – It was a white-knuckle ride, but Victor Vodnik held on for his second save, preserving a one-run win in Cincinnati. His outing began with Santiago Espinal’s lead-off double, followed by full count strikeouts against TJ Friedl and Matt McClain, an intentional walk to Elly De La Cruz, and a game-ending strikeout of Austin Hays. Vodnik threw 27 pitches (59.3 Strike%) and produced six whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). His illustrator:

And his results:

He extended his scoreless streak to 11 games, during which he has posted a 1.456 WHIP with 11 strikeouts versus eight walks (6.8 K-BB%) over 10.1 innings.

Juan Mejia notched his fifth hold, retiring the side and striking out one. He may be the sleeper worth tracking in this leverage ladder.
Jake Bird allowed two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one in the seventh. He was tagged with his fourth blown save and was awarded his third win as a result.

Updated Hierarchy: *Victor Vodnik | *Seth Halvorsen | Juan Mejia

Los Angeles Angels – With the score tied at the top of the ninth, Kenley Jansen worked around Ketel Marte’s lead-off single by inducing Geraldo Perdomo’s flyout and an inning-ending double play groundout by Lourdes Gurriel Jr. Jansen collected his third win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the frame. He threw 10 pitches (80 Strike%) without a whiff.

This extended his scoreless streak to all six games in July, during which he has recorded two wins, one save, and a 0.50 WHIP with nine strikeouts while issuing zero walks (45 K-BB%) across six innings.

Reid Detmers suffered his second blown save, giving up two hits, including Randal Grichuk’s game-tying solo home run at the top of the eighth.
José Fermin fired a clean seventh, striking out one, and secured his first hold.
Brock Burke turned in a clean sixth for his tenth hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Reid Detmers | José Fermin

Minnesota Twins – Locking down his 15th save, Jhoan Durán worked around a hit and recorded two strikeouts while preserving a one-run win over the Pirates. He threw 16 pitches (68.8 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (25 SwStr%).

This outing extended his scoreless streak to seven games, in which he has recorded a win, converted five saves, and a 0.857 WHIP with seven strikeouts against two walks (19.2 K-BB%).

Griffin Jax fired a clean eighth, striking out one, and secured his 20th hold.
Louis Varland allowed a hit during a scoreless seventh, notching his 16th hold.
Brock Stewart stranded a runner while retiring his only batter for his 13th hold in the sixth.
Danny Coulombe gave up a hit and struck out one during two-thirds of the sixth for his seventh hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Louis Varland

San Diego Padres – Nailing down his 28th save, Robert Suarez retired the side and recorded a strikeout against the Phillies’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket, preserving a two-run lead. He threw 13 pitches (76.9 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).

He has converted all five save opportunities in July and has been scoreless in his last five appearances.

Jason Adam escaped with a scoreless eighth, navigating around two hits and a walk for his 23rd hold.
Adrian Morejon notched his 13th hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the seventh.
Jeremiah Estrada was awarded his third win, working a clean seventh and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

San Francisco Giants – Facing the top of the Dodgers’ lineup with a one-run lead, Camilo Doval bent but did not break while recording his 15th save. He allowed Mookie Betts’ one-out single, a stolen base by pinch-runner Esteury Ruiz, and Freddie Freeman’s walk with a game-ending double play groundout induced against Will Smith. Doval threw 14 pitches (64.3 Strike%) without a whiff.

He has posted a save in his last two outings, but has not recorded a strikeout while issuing two walks, resulting in a 1.50 WHIP in them.

Tyler Rogers gave up a hit during a scoreless eighth, securing his 20th hold.
Randy Rodríguez logged 1.2 innings, giving up three hits and an earned run for his 13th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Camilo Doval | Randy Rodríguez | Tyler Rogers

Tampa Bay Rays – Summoned with a one-run lead at the bottom of the ninth in Boston, Pete Fairbanks issued a one-out walk, followed by Cedanne Rafaela’s walk-off two-run home run, resulting in his third loss and third blown save.

It’s the third time in his last ten appearances he has allowed multiple runs, during which he has a 1.30 WHIP with eight strikeouts versus three walks.

Garrett Cleavinger retired both batters via strikeout at the bottom of the eighth for his 13th hold.
Kevin Kelly allowed a hit during 1.1 scoreless frames, securing his fifth hold.
Joe Boyle worked as the “bulk follower,” giving up three hits, two earned runs, and two walks while striking out one across four innings.

Updated Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Bryan Baker | Garrett Cleavinger

Toronto Blue Jays – Entering with a four-run lead, Jeff Hoffman made things interesting against the A’s. He allowed Max Muncy’s solo home run after recording an out, issued a walk, followed by Denzel Clarke’s single. With two outs, he uncorked a wild pitch, scoring a run and advancing Clarke to second, cashed in by Brent Rooker’s RBI single ahead of a game-ending strikeout against Nick Kurtz. Hoffman finished with three hits, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out two in a non-save appearance.

Yariel Rodríguez retired both batters via strikeout at the bottom of the eighth.
Brendon Little stranded two runners in the seventh while logging a clean combined inning, striking out all three batters faced for his 17th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Yariel Rodríguez | Chad Green

Quick Hits

Arizona Diamondbacks: With the score tied at the bottom of the ninth, Kyle Backhus retired his batter, hit Logan O’Hoppe with a pitch, then allowed consecutive singles, including Travis d’Arnaud’s walk-off RBI one, resulting in his first loss.
Boston Red Sox: An impromptu bullpen game following an injury at the top of the second culminated in a walk-off rally, handing Chris Murphy his second win. He worked a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout against the Rays’ 1-2-3 lineup pocket. Jordan Hicks retired the side while striking out one in the eighth, throwing 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) with one whiff.
Cincinnati Reds: With the score tied, Scott Barlow fired a clean top of the seventh, striking out the side. Tony Santillan suffered his third loss, giving up two hits, an earned run on a wild pitch, and a walk while striking out three at the top of the eighth.
Kansas City Royals: After stranding a runner at the top of the seventh, retiring two batters, Steven Cruz did not record an out in the eighth, yielding a single and two walks before being removed. Carlos Estévez took over, but let all three inherited runners score on Mark Vientos’ bases-clearing double, resulting in his fourth blown save. He allowed a hit and an intentional walk while striking out two. Cruz suffered his first loss, getting tagged with three earned runs on his ledger.
Milwaukee Brewers: As the “bulk follower,” Quinn Priester recorded his seventh win, allowing four hits, two earned runs, and two walks while striking out five over six innings of relief.
New York Mets: Despite allowing four hits and two earned runs at the bottom of the seventh, Huascar Brazobán was awarded his fifth win. Reed Garrett retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the eighth, securing his 15th hold. Chris Devenski worked a clean ninth, finishing a five-run win over the Royals.
Texas Rangers: Making his first appearance since July 5, Robert Garcia retired the side and recorded a strikeout, closing a four-run win over Houston. He threw 13 pitches (69.2 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%).

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Monkey Bytes | July 11

Thursday’s slate was reduced by one following a postponement in Chicago, which results in a doubleheader this afternoon. In yesterday’s 10-game slate, relievers recorded five wins and three saves while suffering five losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB	BF
Robert Suarez	27	13	69.2	15.4	1:0	3
Félix Bautista	18	17	70.6	5.9	0:0	3
Aroldis Chapman	16	15	66.7	26.7	2:0	4

Another light schedule for the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for July 11

Luke Weaver (NYY): Williams has pitched in back-to-back games.
Matt Brash (SEA): Muñoz threw 31pitches last night.

Doubleheader Recommendations

Cleveland Guardians: Paul Sewald
Chicago White Sox: Jordan Leasure

Vulture Save Stash for July 12

Jordan Hicks (BOS): If Chapman pitches tonight, it will be consecutive appearances.

Here are the leverage events of interest from Thursday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Atlanta Braves – Taking over at the bottom of the 11th, Aaron Bummer recorded a strikeout, intentionally walked Miguel Andujar, followed by Tyler Soderstrom’s walk-off RBI single, resulting in his second loss.

Pierce Johnson retired the side while striking out one at the bottom of the tenth.
Raisel Iglesias fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded one strikeout, keeping the game tied. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (44.4 SwStr%). It flies below the radar, but he has been scoreless over his last 12 appearances, posting a 0.654 WHIP with 15 strikeouts against one walk (35.9 K-BB%).
Daysbel Hernández worked a clean eighth, striking out one.
Dylan Lee suffered his fourth blown save, giving up Nick Kurtz’s game-tying solo home run among his two hits, and recorded a strikeout between the seventh and eighth innings.

Updated Hierarchy: *Raisel Iglesias | *Dylan Lee | *Daysbel Hernández

Baltimore Orioles – (Game 1) – Félix Bautista locked down his 18th save, retiring the side against the Mets’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket on 17 pitches (70.5 Strike%) with one whiff.

He extended his scoreless streak to five games, and he has converted his last 11 save chances since May 26, posting a 0.778 WHIP with 31 strikeouts against nine walks (32.4 K-BB%) across 18 innings.

Grant Wolfram logged two scoreless innings, giving up a hit and striking out four. He earned his first win courtesy of a go-ahead home run at the bottom of the eighth.

(Game 2) – Preserving a four-run lead at the top of the ninth, Seranthony Domínguez navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out two.

Gregory Soto fired a clean eighth, striking out one.
Andrew Kittredge retired the side and recorded one strikeout in the seventh. Tidy auditions for contending teams searching for relievers.

Updated Hierarchy: Félix Bautista | Seranthony Domínguez | Gregory Soto

Boston Red Sox – Capping his team’s comeback rally, Aroldis Chapman secured his 16th save, working around Jake Mangum’s one-out single with consecutive strikeouts, preserving the one-run margin. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%).

He extended his scoreless streak to ten games, during which he has converted all five save chances while posting a 0.43 WHIP with 18 strikeouts against one walk (51.5 K-BB%) through 9.2 innings.

Garrett Whitlock notched his tenth hold, retiring the side and striking out two during the eighth.
Chris Murphy collected his first win, giving up a hit during a scoreless seventh, ahead of his team’s three-run rally at the bottom of the frame.

The team also faces a decision about what role Tanner Houck will fill when his minor league rehab assignment ends on July 17. He has been improving during his starts, but he also was a high-leverage reliever in 2022, converting eight of nine save chances with a 0.882 WHIP across 11.1 innings in save situations. Fantasy managers should monitor this closely, especially if the team sells high on Chapman. Here are quotes by Craig Breslow regarding his dominant closer.

Updated Hierarchy: Aroldis Chapman | Jordan Hicks | Garrett Whitlock

New York Yankees – Tasked with the top of the tenth, Devin Williams retired the side, stranding the “place” runner and recorded a strikeout. He collected his third win when his team produced a walk-off rally at the bottom of the frame. He threw seven pitches, all strikes, and induced one whiff (14.3 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in 11 of his last 12 appearances, going 1-1 while converting all seven save chances with a 0.513 WHIP while recording 15 strikeouts versus two walks (30.2 K-BB%) over 11.2 innings.

Ian Hamilton tossed a clean top of the ninth, striking out two.
JT Brubaker allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless eighth.

Updated Hierarchy: Devin Williams | Luke Weaver | Tim Hill

San Diego Padres – Shutting the door on his MLB-leading 27th save, Robert Suarez retired the side and recorded a strikeout against Arizona’s 2-3-4 lineup pocket, preserving a one-run lead. He threw 13 pitches (69.2 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).

He has allowed one baserunner over his last four appearances, during which he has converted three consecutive saves with five strikeouts (38.5 K-BB%).

Jeremiah Estrada secured his 19th hold, yielding a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
Jason Adam gave up two hits, an earned run, and a walk in the seventh, getting credit for his 22nd hold.
Adrian Morejon logged 1.2 scoreless frames, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out two. He was awarded his seventh win after taking over at the top of the fifth and stranding two runners.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

Seattle Mariners – Called upon at the bottom of the tenth with the game tied, Gabe Speier intentionally walked Paul Goldschmidt, walked Trent Grisham, and suffered his first loss on Aaron Judge’s walk-off sacrifice fly, scoring the “place” runner.

For only the second time in 36 appearances this season, Andrés Muñoz allowed multiple hits, allowing Grisham’s lead-off single, retiring Judge via flyout, followed by Cody Bellinger’s single, putting two on with one out. After retiring Jazz Chisolm Jr. on a flyout, Muñoz walked Ben Rice, loading the bases, and suffered his sixth blown save, giving up Austin Wells’ game-tying two-RBI single. He finished with three hits, two earned runs, and a walk. Muñoz labored through 31 pitches, and struggled commanding his four-seam fastball:

With the following results:

Matt Brash let his only inherited runner score, giving up Giancarlo Stanton’s pinch-hit two-run home run during his two-thirds of the eighth.

Updated Hierarchy: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

The Athletics – Keeping the “place” runner at bay with two clean frames, Justin Sterner earned his second win courtesy of a walk-off at the bottom of the 11th against Atlanta. He threw 26 pitches (69.2 Strike%) and produced six whiffs (23.1 SwStr%).

Mason Miller fired a clean top of the ninth, striking out one on 13 pitches (61.5 Strike%) with three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%). He has not recorded a save since July 1, but extended his scoreless streak to six games, during which he has a 0.50 WHIP and eight strikeouts against one walk (30 K-BB%).

Michael Kelly stranded a runner while retiring his only batter at the bottom of the eighth.
Sean Newcomb worked a scoreless combined inning, walking and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Mason Miller | Michael Kelly | Sean Newcomb

Quick Hits

Chicago Cubs: Finishing a seven-run win over the Twins, Daniel Palencia fired a clean bottom of the ninth, recording two strikeouts while throwing 12 pitches (75 Strike%) with six whiffs (50 SwStr%). He had not pitched since June 6 and has been scoreless in three of four outings in July, but he last recorded a save on July 2. Brad Keller worked around a hit and a walk while striking out two during a scoreless bottom of the eighth.
Miami Marlins: Appearing during a shutout loss, Ronny Henriquez stranded a runner while retiring all three batters via strikeout during the bottom of the sixth, facing the Reds’ 5-6-7 hitters. He threw 16 pitches (68.8 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (25 SwStr%). He has been scoreless in 11 of his last 12 since June 14, recording two wins, four saves, and two holds while posting a 0.769 WHIP with 19 strikeouts versus two walks (40.4 K-BB%) across 11.2 innings.
New York Mets: (Game 1) – Entering a tied game at the bottom of the eighth, Ryne Stanek issued four walks and gave up one hit, a go-ahead two-run home run by Gunnar Henderson, resulting in his fifth loss and a fourth blown save. (Game 2) – Appearing as the “bulk follower,” Justin Hagenman suffered his first loss. He allowed four hits, three runs (two earned), and a walk while striking out three during his two innings of relief.
St. Louis Cardinals: In order of appearance, Steven Matz notched his sixth hold, logging 1.1 clean frames and stranding his only inherited runner at the top of the sixth. Kyle Leahy allowed two hits, an earned run, and two walks while striking out one during the eighth and ninth innings.
Tampa Bay Rays: A less-than-auspicious team debut for Bryan Baker. He took over with a two-run lead at the bottom of the seventh and issued Trevor Story a lead-off walk, a leverage mortal sin. His command struggles continued, walking Romy Gonzalez, followed by a Marcelo Mayer RBI-double, and Cedanne Rafaela’s two-RBI single, resulting in Baker’s second loss and a fourth blown save. He finished with two hits, three earned runs, and two walks while striking out one.
Texas Rangers: During an extended relief outing, Jacob Latz notched his second hold, giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out six across 3.1 innings.
Washington Nationals: Pitching during an eventual seven-run loss, Kyle Finnegan retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the bottom of the eighth. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (20 SwStr%). The good news is that he extended his scoreless streak to eight games, spanning 7.1 innings. However, he has not recorded a save since June 6.

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