Monkey Bytes | July 10

Wednesday’s slate was reduced by one game, as the contest in Baltimore was postponed. Across the 14 games, six were decided by five or more runs while five were within two runs or fewer. Relievers recorded three wins and six saves against four losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BBBF
Carlos Estévez251669%12.51:04
Kenley Jansen161369.25.41:04
Jhoan Durán14862.500:03
Devin Williams131266.733.32:03
Jordan Leasure21872.216.72:04
Paul Sewald2887.512.51:03

One of yesterday’s vulture saves hit (Paul Sewald), but it’s slim pickings today based on usage patterns and ten teams getting a travel day:

Vulture Save Options for July 10

Doubleheader Plays

  • New York Mets – Preferred play: Huascar Brazobán; YOLO: Ryne Stanek
  • Baltimore Orioles – Preferred play: Seranthony Domínguez; YOLO: Andrew Kittredge

Vulture Save Stashes for July 11

  • Griffin Jax (MIN): If Durán pitches today, it’s back-to-back games. 
  • Anthony DeSclafani (ARI): If Ginkel appears today, it’s consecutive contests. 

Under the Hood: Tanner Scott

Tanner Scott took over with a runner on and two outs at the bottom of the eighth, retiring Christian Yelich on one pitch. However, returning for the ninth, he allowed a lead-off single by Isaac Collins, recorded a strikeout, then allowed consecutive singles, including a game-tying RBI pinch-hit single by Andrew Vaughn. Scott finished his 1.1 innings with three hits and an earned run while striking out two during his sixth blown save. His illustrator from yesterday’s appearance:

He has continued attacking in the strike zone throughout the season. And his results:

Contact remains an issue for him, though his pitches were located well in this chart. He has allowed three hits in back-to-back games and given up multiple hits in four of his last seven, resulting in a 1.918 WHIP with 11 hits across 34 batters faced with a .400 batting average on balls in play (BAbip). His rolling game graph displays that he had improved his contact rates before these contests:

He has had pockets of results like this during the first half and rebounded with strong stretches, but it remains frustrating. There are subtle differences in his splits by pitch, updated below:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/cFOhP/3/

One notes the spike in hard-hit percentage against the four-seam fastball and the rise in BAbip versus his slider. Could he be throwing too many strikes? Fantasy managers happily accept his 24.1 K-BB percentage, fueled by an eight percent decrease in walk rate. His WHIP remains almost in line with last year. However, subtle changes in batted ball results are causing him issues. Trading ground balls for line drives has shifted his poor contact versus good contact allowed this season per Statcast:

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

He has already allowed more barrels (10) this season in fewer batted ball events than last year. As for his contact trends:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Lok8n/3/

Whether it’s bad luck or sequencing, a slight adjustment with more sliders may be necessary. When hitters are ahead in the count, they have posted a .333 batting average, a .941 xSLG, and a .570 expected weighted on-base average (xwOBA) against his four-seam fastball. He has shown the ability to bounce back since 2023, but he may be ceding more save chances soon.

Blake Treinen began his rehab outing at Triple-A yesterday, throwing eight of 12 pitches for strikes (66.7 Strike%) with three whiffs:

With Michael Kopech landing on the 60-day injured list after undergoing surgery to repair his meniscus, Treinen may emerge as the right-handed complement to Scott during the late innings. Before being placed on the injured list, Treinen recorded two saves in his first eight appearances. Stay tuned, the second half could be an intriguing one for the Dodgers.

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Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Wednesday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Chicago White Sox – Called upon with a one-run lead at the top of the ninth against Toronto’s 4-5-6 lineup pocket, Jordan Leasure worked around Alejandro Kirk’s two-out single with a game-ending lineout by Myles Straw, securing his second save, first since May 20. He threw 18 pitches (72.2 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts.

Grant Taylor took over at the top of the eighth, facing pinch-hitter George Springer and the top of the lineup, the highest-leveraged match-up of the contest. He allowed Bo Bichette’s two-out double but quelled the rally, getting Vlad Guerrero Jr. to ground out, preserving the one-run lead. Taylor threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) and produced one whiff (8.3 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in his last two appearances.

It’s not ideal, and fantasy managers must adjust their expectations with this bullpen, especially for a first-year manager trying to make his mark:

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

*= highest-leveraged reliever and preferred save share (Taylor)

Cleveland Guardians – With his bullpen running on fumes, Paul Sewald filled in capably, firing a clean bottom of the ninth and striking out one for his second save. He threw eight pitches (87.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff (12.5 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in all three outings since returning from the injured list, and this marked his first save since March 27.

  • Jakob Junis let his only inherited runner score on an RBI hit by Jose Altuve and recorded a strikeout during the bottom of the eighth for his fourth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Kansas City Royals – Capping his team’s go-ahead rally during the bottom of the eighth, Carlos Estévez protected the one-run lead while securing his AL-leading 25th save. He allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout facing the Pirates’ 6-7-8-9 hitters, throwing 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) with two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%).

Since June 5, he has converted all eight save chances with a 1-1 record, posting 0.752 WHIP with eight strikeouts against two walks (12.8 K-BB%) through 13.1 innings.

  • Lucas Erceg collected his fourth win, firing a clean top of the eighth and recording one strikeout.
  • John Schreiber logged 1.1 scoreless innings, yielding a hit and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber

Los Angeles Angels – Called upon with a three-run lead against the top of the Rangers’ lineup, Kenley Jansen worked around Corey Seager’s one-out double with a flyout and a game-ending strikeout of Adolis García for his 16th save. He threw 13 pitches (69.2 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).

This was his first save since June 18, and the outing extended his scoreless streak in July to six games, during which he has posted a 0.40 WHIP with nine strikeouts against zero walks (52.9 K-BB%) in five innings.

  • José Fermin retired the side at the top of the eighth and collected his second win when his teammates scored three at the bottom of the inning.
  • Connor Brogdon retired his only batter faced in the seventh via strikeout.
  • Reid Detmers allowed a hit batter and Marcus Semien’s two-run home run during the seventh inning.
  • Sam Bachman suffered his second blown save, yielding two hits and an earned run during two-thirds of the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Reid Detmers | Ryan Zeferjahn

Milwaukee Brewers – Carving through the Dodgers’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket at the top of the tenth, Trevor Megill struck out the side on 13 pitches (11 strikes – 84.6 Strike%) while generating four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%).

He collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. Through four scoreless appearances this month, he has converted three saves, posting a 0.50 WHIP with eight strikeouts against one walk (50 K-BB%).

  • Abner Uribe stranded an inherited runner and retired both batters at the top of the ninth, one via strikeout.
  • Jared Koenig allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts between the seventh and eighth innings.
  • Grant Anderson gave up a hit while yielding a hit during two-thirds of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

Minnesota Twins – Showing no lingering effects from his illness, Jhoan Durán locked down his 14th save, retiring the side against the Cubs’ 4-5-6 hitters on eight pitches (62.5 Strike%) without a whiff.

He owns a five-game scoreless streak, during which he has recorded a win and four saves, posting a 0.833 WHIP with five strikeouts against two walks across six innings.

  • Louis Varland notched his 15th hold with a clean top of the eighth, striking out one.
  • Brock Stewart worked a clean seventh and recorded a strikeout for his 12th hold.
  • Danny Coulombe allowed a hit and struck out one over two-thirds of the sixth, securing his sixth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Louis Varland

New York Yankees – Shutting the door on his 13th save, Devin Williams fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts against Seattle’s 7-8-9 lineup pocket. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).

Since May 27, he has converted all nine save chances, posting a 0.769 WHIP with 17 strikeouts versus two walks (27.3 K-BB%) over 14.1 innings.

  • Luke Weaver logged 1.2 clean frames, striking out three for his eighth hold.
  • Jonathan Loáisiga let his only inherited runner score and gave up two home runs among his three hits, resulting in three earned runs during his combined inning of relief.

Hierarchy Remains: Devin Williams | Luke Weaver | Jonathan Loáisiga

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: Sealing a six-run win over the Padres, Kevin Ginkel fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded a strikeout on 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) with three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%). He has been scoreless in five of his last six outings, posting a 0.833 WHIP with six strikeotus versus one walk.
  • Atlanta Braves: Wrapping up a seven-run win over the A’s, Rafael Montero allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless bottom of the ninth. Daysbel Hernández fired a clean eighth, striking out one. Dylan Lee stranded a runner and retired his only batter in the seventh via strikeout. 
  • Cincinnati Reds: Pitching in a non-save situation against the Marlins, Emilio Pagán had his modest five-game scoreless streak snapped, serving up Connor Norby’s solo home run and recording two strikeotus at the top of the ninth, finishing a five-run win. Tony Santillan stranded a runner while retiring his only batter at the top of the eighth.
  • Colorado Rockies: Suffering the dreaded getting in work during a non-save situation implosion, Seth Halvorsen did not record an out, allowing four hits, including two home runs, five earned runs, and a walk against Boston in the bottom of the eighth inning. He had been scoreless in four of his previous games, converting all three save chances.
  • Detroit Tigers: During the fateful top of the sixth, Brant Hurter allowed a hit and an earned run while striking out one of his two outs recorded. Chase Lee took over, letting his only inherited runner score, giving up five hits and four earned runs, resulting in his first loss and first blown save.
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Entering a tied game at the bottom of the eighth, Isaac Mattson allowed two hits, including Salvador Perez’s go-ahead solo home run, and a walk while striking out one, resulting in his first loss. Braxton Ashcraft worked 2.1 scoreless frames, scattering three hits and striking out three.
  • Tampa Bay Rays: Finishing a four-run win over the Tigers, Pete Fairbanks gave up Colt Keith’s two-out single during a scoreless bottom of the ninth. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff while recording a strikeout. He has been scoreless in seven of his last eight appearances, posting a 0.843 WHIP with seven strikeouts against one walk (19.4 K-BB%) over 8.1 innings.
  • Texas Rangers: Taking over a tied game at the bottom of the eighth, Luke Jackson suffered his fifth loss, giving up four hits, including Jorge Soler’s go-ahead two-run home run, and three earned runs. Chris Martin was charged with his second blown save, letting both inherited runners score on Taylor Ward’s two-RBI single during his two-thirds of the seventh.
  • Washington Nationals: Making his team debut and finishing the first win of Miguel Cairo’s MLB managerial career, Luis García retired the side and recorded two strikeouts against the Cardinals’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket. Jackson Rutledge tossed a clean eighth, striking out one.

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Monkey Bytes | July 9

Tuesday’s full slate featured a walk-off inside-the-park home run and seven games decided by five or more runs (blowout). Still, relievers recorded six wins and five saves while suffering five losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BBBF
Robert Suarez26205501:03
Trevor Megill211471%21.42:03
Ryan Helsley182055100:05
Will Vest151376.915.43:04
Huascar Brazobán21172.718.21:03

There are some intriguing vulture save options, but only for the American League today:

Vulture Save Options for July 9

  • Bryan Abreu (HOU): Hader logged 1.2 innings, throwing 32 pitches last night. 
  • Tommy Kahnle (DET): Vest has pitched in consecutive contests. 
  • Paul Sewald (CLE): Clase and Gaddis have pitched in three straight, Smith in three of the past four. 
  • Louis Varland (MIN): Jax has appeared in three of the last four; Jhoan Durán was sent home sick on Tuesday. 

Vulture Save Stashes for July 10

  • Seranthony Domínguez (BAL): If Bautista pitches today, it would be back-to-back outings. 
  • Kyle Leahy (STL): If the Cardinals’ leverage triumvirate all appear again today, it will be consecutive outings for Helsley, Romero, and Maton. 

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Under the Hood: Philadelphia’s “floating closer” concept lacks reliable options

Almost any publication regarding the upcoming trade deadline highlights the Phillies’ need for reliever depth. With Orion Kerkering unavailable on Tuesday after throwing 25 pitches on Monday, Jordan Romano tried to record four or more outs for the first time all season. He did not accomplish this feat. He stranded both runners on a pop-out and an inning-ending flyout. Returning for the ninth with a two-run lead, he allowed Casey Schmitt’s lead-off double and Wilmer Flores’ one-out single before a walk-off inside-the-park home run by Patrick Bailey, resulting in Romano’s fourth loss and a third blown save. He allowed three hits and three earned runs over 1.1 innings.

Using Baseball-Reference’s team relief pitching table, Philadelphia has accrued 43 save opportunities this season, tied for the second most in the majors. However, the team’s 17 blown saves following last night’s loss are tied for the third most. The relievers also rank 23rd in ERA (4.42) and 15th in SIERA (3.82) per Fangraphs.

Romano (16), Kerkering (24), and Matt Strahm (21) have recorded 61 of the team’s 95 high-leverage appearances, which may be putting a strain on the team since Rob Thomson truly trusts two relievers, not the one who suffered the blown save in the walk-off loss. This trade deadline will be a tough needle for Dave Dombrowski to thread. His team has a limited window but overpaid for relievers at last year’s deadline, and may be forced into a similar situation in three weeks. In a shortened series in the playoffs, the team can use a pitcher like Jesús Luzardo in the seventh inning, but targeting a reliable closer and shifting the “floating closer” into a “match-up-based” setup situation may be necessary for a team with championship aspirations.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Tuesday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Baltimore Orioles – Tasked with the top of the tenth, Yennier Cano allowed two hits, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out one, resulting in his fifth loss.

Félix Bautista tossed a scoreless ninth, walking one and striking out three, keeping the game tied. He threw 19 pitches (9 strikes – 47.4 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (15.8 SwStr%).

  • Andrew Kittredge took over at the top of the eighth, retiring all three batters, one on a strikeout.
  • Bryan Baker struggled, allowing four hits, including two home runs, and four earned runs without recording an out in the eighth.
  • Seranthony Dominguez tossed a scoreless seventh, walking one and striking out for his 12th hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: Félix Bautista | Seranthony Domínguez | Bryan Baker

Cleveland Guardians – Preserving his team’s four-run rally during the top of the tenth, Emmanuel Clase retired the side while striking out one at the bottom of the inning, appearing in a third straight game. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (20 SwStr%).

  • Jakob Junis earned his second win, yielding a hit and striking out during a scoreless bottom of the ninth.
  • Hunter Gaddis allowed three hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one at the bottom of the eighth.
  • Cade Smith logged 1.1 scoreless frames, walking two and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Detroit Tigers – Slamming the door on his 15th save, Will Vest allowed Chandler Simpson’s two-out single while recording all three outs via strikeout during a scoreless top of the ninth. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to seven games, during which he has a 0.857 WHIP with 11 strikeouts against three walks (29.6 K-BB%) through seven innings.

  • Tyler Holton retired the side at the top of the eighth, recording his tenth hold.
  • Tommy Kahnle stranded a runner while recording two outs at the top of the seventh and was awarded his first win.

Hierarchy Remains: Will Vest | Tommy Kahnle | Tyler Holton

Houston Astros – Summoned at the top of the ninth during a tied contest, Josh Hader allowed a two-out single. He returned for the tenth, recording an out on a sacrifice bunt, intentionally walked José Ramírez, who promptly stole second, then issued another walk to load the bases. Hader retired the pinch-hitter via strikeout, and with two outs, gave up Angel Martínez’s go-ahead grand slam, putting four runs (three earned) on his ledger, resulting in his second loss. He threw 32 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (18.8 SwStr%). Here are his pitches from this extended outing:

And his results, noting the home run likely was a byproduct of fatigue:

This marked his fifth multi-inning outing this season and only the second time he has thrown more than 30 pitches.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bennett Sousa

Kansas City Royals – Despite allowing Ke’Bryan Hayes’ one-out double, Carlos Estévez worked a scoreless top of the ninth and collected his third win following a rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) without a whiff.

He has been scoreless in three of four appearances in July.

  • Lucas Erceg allowed a hit, an earned run, and two walks during his third blown save at the top of the eighth.
  • Angel Zerpa retired the side, striking out two at the top of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber

Milwaukee Brewers – Locking down his 21st save, Trevor Megill fired a clean top of the ninth while striking out two, finishing a two-run win over the Dodgers. Facing the 3-4-5 lineup pocket, he threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%).

He has only permitted two baserunners through three saves in July while recording five strikeouts versus one walk.

  • Abner Uribe secured his MLB-leading 26th hold, retiring the side and recording a strikeout in the eighth.
  • Jared Koenig tossed a clean seventh, notching his 16th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

Minnesota Twins – In order of appearance, Danny Coulombe allowed a hit and a walk while striking out one at the top of the sixth, getting credit for his fifth hold.

  • Brock Stewart stranded both inherited runners, retiring his only batter via strikeout and securing his 11th hold.
  • Cole Sands tossed a clean seventh for his eighth hold.
  • Griffin Jax navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out two for a scoreless eighth, notching his 19th hold.
  • Joey Wentz finished the game but could not complete the combined shutout, allowing Justin Turner’s solo home run during the seven-run win.

With Jhoan Durán sent home because of sickness, it appears Louis Varland would have been in line for the save chance before his teammates scored six runs at the bottom of the eighth. 

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Louis Varland

New York Mets – After his teammates scored the “place” runner at the top of the tenth, Huascar Brazobán retired the side while striking out one at the bottom of the inning for his second save. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).

Edwin Diaz fired a clean ninth, striking out one on 10 pitches (50 Strike%) with three whiffs, and collected his fourth win.

This extends his scoreless streak to 11 games, during which he has converted all five save chances with a 0.686 WHIP and 15 strikeouts against one walk (36.9 K-BB%) through 10.2 innings.

  • Reed Garrett worked around a hit and a walk for a scoreless eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Ryne Stanek | Reed Garrett

San Diego Padres – Completing a combined shutout, Robert Suarez nailed down his MLB-leading 26th save, retiring the side and striking out one. He threw 20 pitches (55 Strike%) without a whiff.

Suarez has been scoreless over his last three appearances and has converted all three save opportunities across four outings in July.

  • Jason Adam allowed a hit during a scoreless eighth, securing his 21st hold.
  • Adrian Morejon stranded two runners despite issuing a walk and recorded a strikeout at the top of the seventh. He was awarded his sixth win as a result.
  • Jeremiah Estrada stranded a runner during the sixth and issued a walk while striking out three during his combined inning of relief. 

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

St. Louis Cardinals – Sealing a two-run lead, Ryan Helsley navigated around Josh Bell’s lead-off walk and Riley Adams’ two-out single with a game-ending fielder’s choice groundout for his 18th save. He threw 20 pitches (55 Strike%) and induced two whiffs.

This extended his scoreless streak to six, and he has converted all five saves with a 0.667 WHIP during it.

  • JoJo Romero recorded his 13th hold, giving up a hit and striking out two in a scoreless eighth.
  • Phil Maton retired the side in the seventh, securing his 18th hold.
  • Steven Matz escaped with a scoreless sixth, allowing a hit and a walk for his fifth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Ryan Helsley | Phil Maton | JoJo Romero

Quick Hits

  • Chicago Cubs: Rough outing alert for Porter Hodge. He gave up five hits, including three home runs, six earned runs, and a walk, while striking out one during one-third of the bottom of the eighth.
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: Appearing during an eventual loss, Kirby Yates allowed two hits, including Sal Frelick’s solo home run, and issued a walk while striking out two at the bottom of the eighth. Alex Vesia retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the bottom of the seventh.
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Entering a tied game at the bottom of the eighth, Dennis Santana retired the side, one via strikeout. Returning for the ninth, he allowed consecutive singles leading off the inning and was removed after retiring Jac Caglinone on a flyout. Isaac Mattson replaced him and gave up a walk-off RBI single by Nick Loftin, handing Santana his second loss.
  • San Francisco Giants: Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Ryan Walker collected his second win, throwing an efficient one pitch and inducing an inning-ending groundout by Alec Bohm, stranding two runners at the top of the ninth.
  • Tampa Bay Rays: Taking over a tied game at the bottom of the seventh, Edwin Uceta allowed a walk and a go-ahead two-run home run by Colt Keith, resulting in his second loss. He has given up at least a run in three of four outings in July and five of his last eight since June 19. 
  • Washington Nationals: Making his second appearance of the year, Mason Thompson allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout at the top of the ninth, throwing 16 pitches (75 Strike%) with two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%). Andrew Chafin retired the side in the eighth.

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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:

  1. Aroldis Chapman (BOS)
  2. David Bednar (PIT)
  3. Dennis Santana (PIT)
  4. Félix Bautista (BAL)
  5. Mason Miller (ATH)
  6. Ryan Helsley (STL)
  7. Emmanuel Clase (CLE)
  8. Jhoan Durán (MIN)
  9. 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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Statistical Credits:

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BrooksBaseball.net

Monkey Bytes | July 8

Things seemed tranquil on Monday until Arizona announced Shelby Miller was being placed on the 15-day injured list with forearm tightness. In the postgame comments, Torey Lovullo shared that the reliever will undergo imaging:

Although fantasy managers prefer clarity, it appears the team will deploy a match-up-based approach:

As for Monday’s 10-game slate, relievers recorded three wins and converted four saves while suffering two losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BBBF
Emmanuel Clase191469.27.10:03
Camilo Doval142360.800:13
Anthony Bender2310066.71:01
Kevin Ginkel21145.59.10:13

For the save streamers:

Vulture Options for July 8

  • Randy Rodríguez (SF): Doval has pitched in back-to-back games, throwing 42 pitches and Rogers has appeared in three-straight. 
  • Cade Smith (CLE): Clase and Gaddis have pitched in consecutive contests. 

Vulture Stashes for July 9

  • Ryan Zeferahn (LAA): If Jansen pitches tonight, it’s back-to-back games and four in five days. 
  • Anthony DeSclafani (ARI): If Ginkel pitches on Tuesday, he will have worked in consecutive games. 

Adjusted Hierarchy: Arizona Diamondbacks

In the first game without Shelby Miller, Kevin Ginkel navigated around Fernando Tatis Jr.’s lead-off walk, benefiting from a terrific catch by Alek Thomas, followed by a game-ending double play groundout by Manny Machado for his second save, first since May 8. He threw 11 pitches (45.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

He has been scoreless in four of his last five appearances and will be part of a potential committee for saves. Juan Morillo stranded an inherited runner despite issuing two walks and striking out one during two-thirds of the eighth, getting his fifth hold after arriving at the ballpark just before the seventh inning. Kyle Backhus allowed two hits, including Machado’s solo home run, two runs (one earned), and a walk during 1.1 innings for his fifth hold.

Monday’s structure will be our hierarchical template, but could other relievers be in the mix for saves? First, Fangraphs’ win probability added chart from the last 30 days for Arizona:

Seeing the top three, it makes sense that they were deployed in Monday’s win. Jalen Beeks has closed games in his career, and there could be a dark horse if Anthony DeSclafani transitions into a one-inning reliever. For the visual crowd, the relievers’ results over the last 30 days:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/OVy8H/1/

Usage patterns will be monitored closely. Ginkel may emerge as the preferred save option, but performance and health will determine if this transpires. For now:

Adjusted Hierarchy: *Kevin Ginkel | *Juan Morillo | *Kyle Backhus

*= closer-by-committee

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Monday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Cleveland Guardians – Ensuring his team snapped its ten-game losing streak, Emmanuel Clase retired the side while recording his 19th save, preserving a two-run lead in Houston. He threw 14 pitches (9 strikes – 64.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff while facing the 5-6-7 lineup pocket.

This marked his first save since June 22.

  • Hunter Gaddis worked a clean eighth for his 18th hold.
  • Paul Sewald tossed a clean seventh, striking out one for his fourth hold.
  • Matt Festa allowed Victor Caratini’s solo home run and issued a walk during his 1.1 innings. He was awarded his second win after taking over in the bottom of the fifth.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Los Angeles Angels – Keeping the game tied at the top of the ninth, working around a batter reaching on an error by inducing a double play groundout and a strikeout, Kenley Jansen collected his second win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the frame. He threw seven pitches (85.7 Strike%) without a whiff.

He remains scoreless through four appearances this month, posting a 0.25 WHIP.

  • Brock Burke stranded a runner and retired his only batter at the top of the eighth.
  • Sam Bachman allowed Jake Burger to reach on a wild pitch during a strikeout, followed by Josh Smith’s game-tying double, resulting in his first blown save.
  • Reid Detmers gave up a hit during a scoreless seventh for his seventh hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Reid Detmers | Ryan Zeferjahn

Miami Marlins – Entering with runners on the corners and two outs leading by four, Anthony Bender secured his second save, striking out Austin Hays on three pitches, all strikes. It’s his first save since April 1, and he extended his scoreless streak to eight games.

  • Lake Bachar logged 2.2 scoreless frames, scattering two hits and striking out three.

Hierarchy Remains: *Ronny Henriquez | Calvin Faucher | Anthony Bender

*= highest-leverage reliever and the preferred save share

Philadelphia Phillies – Taking over a tied game at the bottom of the eighth, Orion Kerkering had some command issues. He hit Willy Adames leading off the inning, allowed Matt Chapman’s single, then hit Wilmer Flores to load the bases. The go-ahead run scored on a fielder’s choice groundout, as did the second run of the inning, prompting his removal. Kerkering suffered his fourth loss, giving up a hit and two earned runs over two-thirds of an inning while throwing 25 pitches (52 Strike%), inducing one whiff. His illustrator:

And his results:

This marks six consecutive games he has entered during the eighth inning and the second time in his last five he has incurred a loss, posting a 1.628 WHIP across 4.1 innings.

  • Max Lazar stranded both inherited runners while retiring both batters in the eighth, one via strikeout.

Hierarchy Remains: *Matt Strahm | *Orion Kerkering | Jordan Romano

*= “floating closer” concept

San Francisco Giants – Capping his team’s go-ahead rally at the bottom of the eighth, Camilo Doval secured his 14th save despite issuing a lead-off walk at the top of the ninth, inducing a lineout, followed by a game-ending double play groundout by Bryson Stott. Doval threw 23 pitches (14 strikes – 60.8 Strike%) without a whiff. His illustrator:

And his results:

It’s his first save since June 27 and his second consecutive outing without a whiff.

  • Tyler Rogers collected his fourth win, giving up a hit during a scoreless top of the eighth.
  • Joey Lucchesi tossed a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one.
  • Ryan Walker worked a clean sixth, striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Camilo Doval | Randy Rodríguez | Tyler Rogers

Texas Rangers – Called upon with the bases loaded and one out at the bottom of the ninth, Hoby Milner issued a walk-off walk to Nolan Schanuel. Chris Martin suffered his fifth loss. He worked a scoreless bottom of the eighth, but allowed a lead-off double by Luis Rengifo in the ninth, recorded a strikeout, a second single by Kevin Newman, and intentionally walked Zach Neto before being removed. He finished with two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one during 1.1 innings.

  • Jacob Webb fired a clean seventh, striking out two.
  • Shawn Armstrong gave up three hits and two earned runs, getting tagged with his third blown save in the sixth. 

There was no explanation about not using Robert Garcia other than Martin saying he felt great while making his first multi-inning outing since April 30. Texas has now lost three of its first four games on a pivotal road trip.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Garcia | Chris Martin | Shawn Armstrong

Quick Hits

  • Detroit Tigers: Preserving a four-run lead, Will Vest worked around a two-out walk with a flyout against the Rays’ 2-3-4-5 hitters. He threw 19 pitches (12 strikes – 63.2 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (21.1 SwStr%) while recording one strikeout. This extended his scoreless streak to six games, during which he has converted both saves with a 0.833 WHIP and eight strikeouts against three walks (21.8 K-BB%) across six innings.
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Summoned with two outs at the bottom of the eighth, David Bednar retired Tyler Tolbert, his only batter faced, via strikeout on four pitches, all strikes, and produced two whiffs (50 SwStr%). He has been scoreless in his last six appearances but last recorded a save on July 1.
  • Toronto Blue Jays: Closing a four-run win against the White Sox, Chad Green navigated around two hits for a scoreless bottom of the ninth. Nick Sandlin stranded two runners and retired both batters in the eighth, one via strikeout for his fifth hold.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

This year, the daily emails will change. Those interested in daily free updates with links should subscribe to our page at Substack. Subscribers to the former site will not transfer over; readers must register using the new link.

Premium subscribers can still use this link for daily, ad-free content or submit a $25 payment via Venmo to @gjewett9.

If you would like to leave a tip, please use this link for PayPal. Venmo can be sent to the address above.

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

Statistical Credits:

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BrooksBaseball.net

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

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

Save Stashes:

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

Top 75 for SOLDS

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

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

Monkey Merch

Closer Monkey t-shirts, long-sleeve tees, polos, a quarter-zip, and trucker hats are available for order through July 10 at this LINK.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

This year, the daily emails will change. Those interested in daily free updates with links should subscribe to our page at Substack. Subscribers to the former site will not transfer over; readers must register using the new link.

Premium subscribers can still use this link for daily, ad-free content or submit a $25 payment via Venmo to @gjewett9.

If you would like to leave a tip, please use this link for PayPal. Venmo can be sent to the address above.

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

BaseballSavant.com

BrooksBaseball.net