Closer Monkey

Monkey Bytes | May 22

Wednesday’s slate had another weather postponement but still yielded eight wins for relievers and four saves against five losses. A blown save accompanied one win (Bryan Baker) during an extra-inning contest in Milwaukee. As for the saves:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB
Andrés Muñoz	16	16	56.3	18.8	0:0
Taner Scott	10	14	85.7	14.3	2:0
Dennis Santana	5	12	83.3	25	2:0
Daniel Palencia	1	13	61.5	7.7	0:0

Unlike the weather patterns near me, a light forecast for vulture saves:

Vulture Save Options for May 22

Andrew Kittredge (BAL): Bautista appeared on consecutive days for the first time yesterday and will be unavailable today, and potentially tomorrow in Boston.
Devin Williams (NYY): Weaver has pitched in back-to-back games, albeit only eight pitches total, but this does not account for warm-up tosses getting ready. Aaron Boone prefers not to use relievers in three consecutive contests.

Three Takeaways

(1) Megill and pending regression: Entering at the top of the tenth against Baltimore, Trevor Megill gave up two hits and an unearned run. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s posted a 1.24 WHIP with 17 strikeouts over 15.1 innings. When viewing his underlying data at Fangraphs, there are no discernible differences in his contact rates allowed or swinging strike percentage. However, when one notes his 2.35 ERA has a 3.77 SIERA and a 5.73 xERA, there may be reason for concern. Since xERA accounts for quality of contact, here are his updated batted ball results since 2022:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Ry1Y0/2/

Given his good contact rate of 30 percent this year, compared to a poor contact rate of 15 percent, combined with his 13.8 K-BB percentage, this should raise some concern. In yesterday’s outing, here were his pitch illustrator results:

His four-seam fastball currently has a .348 xBA and a .462 expected weighted on-base average (xwOBA). His contact struggles will persist if he falls behind in counts and is forced to throw pitches in the strike zone. It’s why Abner Uribe remains on our stash lists for future saves.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Nick Mears

(2) Luke Jackson edging toward the hot seat: He recorded his last save on April 25 and has not had many opportunities since, whether it’s game flow or being sidelined by a comeback line drive off his arm. He’s allowed at least a run in three of his seven appearances since the 25th, with two of his six hits allowed being home runs. Over his last four innings since April 27, he’s suffered two losses, including last night’s walk-off in New York, while recording five strikeouts against five walks with a 2.75 WHIP. It’s a limited sample, but he has a 63.6 hard-hit percentage and a Z-Contact (in the strike zone) percentage of 90 percent, which one can observe in this rolling game chart from Fangraphs:

With Chris Martin on the injured list and Robert Garcia struggling in recent appearances, there is no clear replacement on the roster. Shawn Armstong filled in for two saves but has inherent risk as a high-leverage option. It was intimated during the spring Jon Gray could have been an option at closer and this may resurface as he nears a return in three to four weeks. Another name worth tracking may be Kumar Rocker. He’s struggled to remain healthy as a starting pitcher but could cut his teeth for the remainder of the season as a high-leverage reliever. This may be fluid soon, but planning on Jackson as the closer in mid-June may be a mistake.

Hierarchy remains: Luke Jackson | Robert Garcia | Shawn Armstrong

(3) “The Mountain” works in back-to-back games: Félix Bautista made his first appearance on consecutive days since returning from Tommy John surgery, but it did not go as planned. He issued a one-out walk, followed by another with two outs, and Caleb Durbin’s game-tying RBI single, handing him his first blown save. Bautista threw 24 pitches (45.8 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). Here is his pitch illustrator:

He’s allowed at least a run in four straight games since posting a save on May 9. In these 3.2 innings, he has allowed two home runs among his five hits, five earned runs, and five walks while striking out three. Of more significant concern, he’s only thrown 50 percent of his pitches as strikes. For the season, he has a 43.8 first-strike percentage, down almost 15 percent compared to 2023 and his 9.4 K-BB% and 1.43 WHIP are hurting his fantasy managers. How he responds in June may be telling about his rest-of-the-season statistics.

Updated Hierarchy: Félix Bautista | Andrew Kittredge | Gregory Soto

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Wednesday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Chicago Cubs – Handed a one-run lead, Daniel Palencia shut the door on his first save, retiring the side against Miami’s 6-7-8 lineup pocket. He threw 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

He’s been the preferred save choice since Porter Hodge was placed on the injured list and has been scoreless in 11 of his last 12 games with a 0.917 WHIP and 13 strikeouts against five walks.

Brad Keller collected his first win, retiring all four batters faced and stranded a runner with a double play groundout during his 1.2 clean frames.
Caleb Thielbar worked a scoreless combined inning and issued a walk.

Adjusted Hierarchy: *Daniel Palencia | *Brad Keller | *Drew Pomeranz

*= closer-by-committee

Cleveland Guardians – (SSP Game) – Cade Smith entered a tied game at the bottom of the ninth and allowed a hit batter, then two hits, including Kody Clemens’ walk-off RBI double, resulting in his second loss.

During the regularly scheduled contest, Emmanuel Clase worked around a hit and finished a four-run win with a scoreless bottom of the ninth. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s allowed one unearned run during seven appearances in May with seven strikeouts versus two walks.

Hunter Gaddis retired the side and recorded one strikeout for his 12th hold in the eighth.
Tim Herrin issued a walk and tossed a scoreless seventh, securing his eighth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Los Angeles Angels – Taking over at the bottom of the seventh with two runners on and no outs, Héctor Neris retired The Athletics’ 9-1-2 hitters in order on eight pitches (75 Strike%) without a whiff. He was awarded his second win as a result.

Ryan Zeferjahn recorded his seventh hold, giving up a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
Connor Brogdon closed the five-run victory with a clean bottom of the ninth.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Héctor Neris | Ryan Zeferjahn

Los Angeles Dodgers – Locking down his tenth save, Tanner Scott fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts, preserving a two-run win over Arizona. He threw 14 pitches (85.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).

He has a 0.81 WHIP with 25 strikeouts versus one walk (28.6 K-BB%) through 23.1 innings.

Lou Trivino notched his second hold, logging 1.1 clean frames and striking out one.
Jack Dreyer allowed two hits and recorded two outs at the top of the seventh, getting credit for his third hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Tanner Scott | Ben Casparius | Alex Vesia

Minnesota Twins – During the conclusion of the suspended game from Monday, Jhoan Durán could not stem the tide at the top of the ninth, letting both inherited runners score. He took over with no outs and two runners on and induced a groundout followed by Nolan Jones’ RBI single, then moved runners into scoring position with a wild pitch. After recording a strikeout, Durán gave up Bo Naylor’s game-tying RBI double before an inning-ending groundout, resulting in his first blown save. However, he collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 23 pitches (14 strikes – 60.9 Strike%) and induced three whiffs.

He has a 1.07 WHIP with 26 strikeouts versus nine walks (18.3 K-BB%) through 22.1 innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Louis Varland

New York Yankees – Remaining efficient, Luke Weaver entered at the top of the ninth with a runner on first and no outs. He retired Wyatt Langford on a lineout and Josh Jung on a flyout and benefited from an inning-ending caught stealing, stranding his runner. Weaver collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off home run. He threw six pitches (66.7 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s recorded two saves and a win in his last three appearances while throwing 10 pitches between them. On the season, he’s posted a 0.55 WHIP with 22 strikeouts versus six walks (20.2 K-BB%) through 21.2 innings.

Updated Hierarchy: Luke Weaver | Devin Williams | Jonathan Loásiga

Pittsburgh Pirates – Securing his fifth save, Dennis Santana retired the side and recorded two strikeouts while finishing a two-run win in Cincinnati. He threw 12 pitches (83.3 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (25 SwStr%) against the 4-5-6 lineup pocket.

He’s been scoreless in 10 of his last 11 appearances with a 0.68 WHIP and nine strikeouts against zero walks through 10.1 innings.

Caleb Ferguson notched his sixth hold, logging 1.1 clean frames and striking out one.
Tanner Rainey recorded two outs and hit a batter for his first hold in the seventh.
Chase Shugart worked a scoreless sixth, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one for his second hold.

Hierarchy Remains: *David Bednar | *Dennis Santana | Caleb Ferguson

*= match-up-based approach

Seattle Mariners – Recording his MLB-leading 16th save, Andrés Muñoz navigated around Andrew Vaughn’s lead-off single by retiring the next three White Sox batters, preserving the one-run margin. He threw 16 pitches (9 strikes – 56.3 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%).

He owns a 0.74 WHIP with 28 strikeouts against eight walks (23.3 K-BB%) across 21.2 innings.

Carlos Vargas tossed a clean bottom of the eighth and recorded a strikeout for his sixth hold.
Casey Legumina collected his fourth win. He gave up a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two during the bottom of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Casey Legumina | Matt Brash

Tampa Bay Rays -Closing a four-run win, Pete Fairbanks tossed a scoreless top of the ninth, allowing a hit and striking out two. He threw 20 pitches (55 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He last recorded a save on May 4 and has posted a 1.20 WHIP with 20 strikeouts through 20 innings.

Edwin Uceta was credited with his seventh hold despite giving up two solo home runs and recording two strikeouts in the eighth.
Garrett Cleavinger notched his fifth hold, firing a clean seventh while striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Mason Montgomery

Quick Hits

Boston Red Sox: After retiring both batters at the top of the sixth via strikeout, Liam Hendriks suffered his first loss, giving up three hits, resulting in three earned runs during the seventh. Brennan Bernardino let all three inherited runners score, yielding a hit and a walk.
Colorado Rockies: Appearing in a loss, Zach Agnos retired the Phillies’ 6-7-8 lineup pocket in order on six pitches (83.3 Strike%) without a whiff.
Detroit Tigers: Against St. Louis, Chase Lee took over at the bottom of the fourth and logged two clean frames while recording two strikeouts. As a result, he was awarded his first win.
Kansas City Royals: Appearing with a six-run lead, Lucas Erceg allowed two hits, including Heliot Ramos’ two-run home run and a walk, while striking out one during the bottom of the ninth. This snapped his 12-game scoreless streak, but he’s still posted a 0.65 WHIP with 16 strikeouts over 21.2 innings. As the first reliever out of the bullpen, Jonathan Bowlan collected his first career win, logging 1.1 innings across the second and third innings, giving up two hits and an earned run while striking out one.
Miami Marlins: With the score tied at the top of the eighth, Anthony Bender issued Matt Shaw a lead-off walk, a leverage mortal sin, induced a flyout, and allowed the game-winning run score on Kyle Tucker’s RBI single, resulting in his third loss.

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:

Closer Monkey Updated Rankings | 5.19.2025

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.

Relievers on the Rise

Jordan Romano (PHI): His role as the preferred save share combined with José Alvarado’s ill-timed suspension and Romano’s eight-game scoreless streak, during which he has posted a 0.50 WHIP with 11 strikeouts against one walk (37 K-BB%) in eight innings.
Porter Hodge (CHC): He has not recorded a save since May 10. However, all usage signs pointed toward him being in line for the save on Saturday while Ryan Pressly pitched during the seventh inning on Sunday. Can Hodge capture this moment and cement his role? Stay tuned.
Devin Williams (NYY): Since April 28, he’s been scoreless in eight of his nine appearances with two wins, three holds, a 0.75 WHIP, and 12 strikeouts versus four walks (30 K-BB%) across eight innings.

Closer Concerns

Raisel Iglesias (ATL): Since May 6, he has had two wins and a loss while converting two of three save chances with an 8.44 ERA and a 2.44 WHIP. His .500 batting average on balls in play will improve, but he’s still allowing too much contact across his arsenal, resulting in a 1.060 on-base plus slugging percentage in these 5.1 innings with a 10.3 K-BB percentage. Still, his rolling graph tells the story:

Updated Top 40 Closers

*Updated on 5.20.2025

Rank	Relievers
1	Andrés Muñoz
2	Josh Hader
3	Robert Suarez
4	Mason Miller
5	Edwin Díaz
6	Emmanuel Clase
7	Tanner Scott
8	Jhoan Durán
9	Jeff Hoffman
10	Aroldis Chapman
11	Emilio Pagán
12	Ryan Helsley
13	Luke Weaver
14	Trevor Megill
15	Pete Fairbanks
16	Kenley Jansen
17	Carlos Estévez
18	Ryan Walker
19	Will Vest
20	Jordan Romano
21	Félix Bautista
22	Raisel Iglesias
23	Kyle Finnegan
24	Dennis Santana
25	Shelby Miller
26	Luke Jackson
27	Camilo Doval
28	Devin Williams
29	Jason Adam
30	Lucas Erceg
31	Yimi García
32	Cade Smith
33	Matt Strahm
34	Brad Keller
35	Drew Pomeranz
36	Orion Kerkering
37	Cam Booser
38	Zach Agnos
39	Calvin Faucher
40	Anthony Bender

Save Stashes

Abner Uribe (MIL)
Justin Martinez and A.J. Puk (ARI)
Brad Keller (CHC)
Drew Pomeranz (CHC)
Daniel Palencia (CHC)

Updated Top 75 for SOLDS

Rank	Reliever
1	Andrés Muñoz
2	Josh Hader
3	Robert Suarez
4	Jason Adam
5	Jhoan Durán
6	Lucas Erceg
7	Emmanuel Clase
8	Edwin Díaz
9	Mason Miller
10	Tanner Scott
11	Bryan Abreu
12	Jeremiah Estrada
13	Camilo Doval
14	Cade Smith
15	Luke Weaver
16	Emilio Pagán
17	Jeff Hoffman
18	Kyle Leahy
19	Pete Fairbanks
20	Tyler Rogers
21	Aroldis Chapman
22	Ryan Walker
23	Trevor Megill
24	Devin Williams
25	Ryan Helsley
26	Tony Santillan
27	Jordan Romano
28	Griffin Jax
29	Kenley Jansen
30	Will Vest
31	Bryan King
32	Abner Uribe
33	Nick Mears
34	Robert Garcia
35	Raisel Iglesias
36	Edwin Uceta
37	Fernando Cruz
38	Hunter Gaddis
39	Yimi García
40	Carlos Estévez
41	Félix Bautista
42	Kyle Finnegan
43	Louis Varland
44	Shelby Miller
45	Brendon Little
46	Dylan Lee
47	Tommy Kahnle
48	Daniel Palencia
49	Phil Maton
50	Ryne Stanek
51	Alex Vesia
52	Huascar Brazobán
53	Brad Keller
54	Garrett Cleavinger
55	Mason Montgomery
56	Daysbel Hernández
57	Justin Slaten
58	Matt Strahm
59	Tyler Holton
60	Tim Herrin
61	Ryan Pressly
62	Luke Jackson
63	Dennis Santana
64	Kevin Ginkel
65	Orion Kerkering
66	Pierce Johnson
67	Brock Stewart
68	JoJo Romero
69	Greg Weissert
70	Jonathan Loáisiga
71	Gabe Speier
72	Shawn Armstrong
73	Matt Brash
74	David Bednar
75	Reed Garrett

Relievers on the Rise

Daniel Palencia (CHC)
Huascar Brazobán (NYM)
Jonathan Loáisiga (NYY)

Top 50 for Holds

Rank	Reliever
1	Jason Adam
2	Cade Smith
3	Lucas Erceg
4	Tyler Rogers
5	Camilo Doval
6	Abner Uribe
7	Bryan Abreu
8	Griffin Jax
9	Kyle Leahy
10	Jeremiah Estrada
11	Tony Santillan
12	Devin Williams
13	Bryan King
14	Hunter Gaddis
15	Brendon Little
16	Fernando Cruz
17	Yimi García
18	Daniel Palencia
19	Nick Mears
20	Robert Garcia
21	Louis Varland
22	Alex Vesia
23	Tommy Kahnle
24	Matt Strahm
25	Dylan Lee
26	Edwin Uceta
27	Gabe Speier
28	Phil Maton
29	Garrett Cleavinger
30	Mason Montgomery
31	Daysbel Hernández
32	Jonathan Loáisiga
33	Graham Ashcraft
34	Tyler Holton
35	Brad Keller
36	Jose A. Ferrer
37	Orion Kerkering
38	Tim Herrin
39	Chad Green
40	Jalen Beeks
41	Kevin Ginkel
42	Justin Slaten
43	Shawn Armstrong
44	Dennis Santana
45	Jared Koenig
46	Pierce Johnson
47	Ryan Zeferjahn
48	Greg Weissert
49	Drew Pomeranz
50	John Schreiber

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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

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

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

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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)

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Monkey Bytes | May 21

There was another postponement in Minnesota, but the 14-game slate on Tuesday yielded a bevy of high-leverage events. Relievers recorded four wins, ten saves, and six losses, with two recording their first save of the season. Here are the saves in condensed form:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB
Kyle Finnegan	15	10	100	20	0:0
Jeff Hoffman	10	9	88.9	22.2	1:0
Kenley Jansen	10	20	70	15	2:0
Ryan Walker	9	8	62.5	0	0:0
Aroldis Chapman	8	6	83.3	16.7	0:0
Tommy Kahnle	6	12	66.7	8.3	1:0
Luke Weaver	6	2	50	0	0:0
David Bednar	4	16	62.5	0	0:0
Jordan Leasure	1	23	56.5	8.7	2:0
Abner Uribe	1	15	73.3	20	3:0

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for May 21

Garrett Whitlock (BOS): Chapman, Slaten, and Weissert pitched the previous two days.
Brad Keller (CHC): If there is a save chance, he may emerge as a preferred option.
Kendall Graveman (ARI): Miller has worked in three consecutive games, and Ginkel has pitched in four of the last five. (The only caveat: Justin Martinez could be activated after pitching at Triple-A last night.)
Bryan Baker (BAL): Bautista pitched during last night’s loss and has not appeared in back-to-back games this season.
Beau Brieske (DET): Vest has appeared three times in the previous four days, and Kahnle has pitched in two of the last three.
Héctor Neris (LAA): Jansen has logged an appearance in back-to-back contests and four of the last five days.

Suspended Game continuation aided doubleheader options

Cleveland: YOLO – Matt Festa
Minnesota: YOLO – Cole Sands

Vulture Save Stashes for May 22

Yimi García (TOR): If Hoffman pitches today, it’s consecutive appearances.

Three Takeaways

(1) Perplexed by Pittsburgh no more: Going through the game logs and batters faced by batting order, things become clearer in the usage patterns with Don Kelly as manager. In the chart, David Bednar has appeared in six games since May 8 and Dennis Santana in five; the top line reflects hitters in their batting order with the number of times each reliever has faced them below:

Batting Order Position	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9
David Bednar	4	5	6	4	2	2	0	0	2
Dennis Santana	1	0	0	0	2	1	4	5	4

Bednar has matched against the opponent’s third hitter in each game, whereas Santana has faced the other team’s eighth hitter in all of his. Who gets the save will depend on which reliever will be available and which lineup pocket bats in the eighth or ninth inning. Last night, Bednar worked around TJ Friedl’s lead-off single with a double play groundout and an Elly De La Cruz flyout, resulting in his fourth save. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) without a whiff. This marked his first save since April 30 and he faced the 1-2-3 lineup pocket. Dennis Santana retired the side against the 7-8-9 lineup pocket, throwing 10 pitches (60 Strike%) with one whiff for his fifth hold. He’s been scoreless in six of seven outings in May with a win, a save, and a hold.

(2) Uribe provides an alluring sneak preview: Appearing in a third straight game, Abner Uribe fired a clean top of the ninth while striking out the side for his first save this season and first since April 2 last year. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to 13 games, during which he’s posted a 1.083 WHIP with 21 strikeouts against five walks (32.7 K-BB%) across 12 innings. Those with room should have him stashed for save chances later this season.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Nick Mears

(3) J-Mart’s return may be imminent: Pitching at Triple-A for Reno, Justin Martinez allowed a hit during a scoreless inning, throwing 13 pitches (7 strikes – 53.8 Strike%) and inducing two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).

More importantly, he recorded five pitches with triple-digit velocity:

He could be activated for the next series and resume a high-leverage role for the Diamondbacks. His workload will be managed, but seeing the velocity rebound after his time off is encouraging.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Tuesday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Arizona Diamondbacks – Entering at the bottom of the tenth with a two-run lead, Shelby Miller suffered his first loss and a third blown save. He allowed Tommy Edman’s lead-off double, scoring the “place” runner, intentionally walked Shohei Ohtani, induced a Mookie Betts’ flyout, and then intentionally walked Freddie Freeman, loading the bases. However, he scored the tying run, hitting Will Smith with a pitch and the walk-off run on a sacrifice fly. Miller finished with a hit, three runs (two earned), and two walks (both intentional) over his two-thirds of an inning.

Kevin Ginkel worked a scoreless ninth, walking two and striking out two.
Jalen Beeks gave up a hit during a scoreless eighth.
Kendall Graveman tossed a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remain: Shelby Miller | Kevin Ginkel | Jalen Beeks

Boston Red Sox – Finishing a combined shutout, Aroldis Chapman retired the side at the top of the ninth, facing the Mets’ 5-6-7 lineup pocket for his eighth save. He only needed six pitches (83.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff (16.7 SwStr%).

He has a 1.00 WHIP with 26 strikeouts against seven walks (25 K-BB%) through 19 innings. Justin Slaten logged 1.2 clean frames and stranded a runner in the seventh for his second hold. Greg Weissert allowed a hit during two-thirds scoreless of the seventh, securing his seventh hold. Justin Wilson worked two-thirds scoreless, walking one and striking out two. Garrett Whitlock collected his second win, yielding two hits and striking out one during a scoreless fifth.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Justin Slaten | Greg Weissert

Chicago White Sox – Preserving a 1-0 win and securing his first save, Jordan Leasure worked around Donovan Solano’s two-out double with a game-ending strikeout. Leasure recorded two strikeouts while throwing 23 pitches (13 strikes – 56.5 Strike%) with two whiffs.

During his seven appearances in May, he has a 1.132 WHIP with nine strikeouts versus one walk (38.1 K-BB%), this save, and five holds across 5.1 innings.

Cam Booser stranded two runners while allowing a walk and striking out one during two-thirds of the eighth for his second hold.
Steven Wilson was credited with his sixth hold despite giving up a hit and hitting a batter over one-third of the eighth.
Brandon Eisert tossed a clean seventh and recorded a strikeout for his second hold.

Updated Hierarchy: *Cam Booser | *Jordan Leasure | *Steven Wilson

*= closer-by-committee

Detroit Tigers – Handed a one-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, Tommy Kahnle retired the side and recorded a strikeout en route to his sixth save. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. This represents his first save since April 30, and he owns a 0.81 WHIP with 20 strikeouts through 19.2 innings.

Will Vest collected his fourth win despite issuing two walks and striking out one during a scoreless bottom of the eighth.
Tyler Holton gave up a hit and an earned run.
Tyler Holton suffered his second blown save, giving up a hit and an earned run during the seventh.
Brenan Hanifee stranded a runner, allowing two hits before the bottom of the sixth.

Updated Hierarchy: *Will Vest | *Tommy Kahnle | Tyler Holton

*= closer-by-committee

Los Angeles Angels – After appearing for the fourth time in five days, Kenley Jansen recorded his tenth save. He did allow Lawrence Butler’s two-out single, who moved up to third on defensive indifference and scored on a Seth Brown single before a game-ending strikeout, preserving the two-run win. Jansen threw 20 pitches (70 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (15 SwStr%) while striking out two.

He has a 1.37 WHIP with 15 strikeouts across 15.1 innings.

Brock Burke retired his only batter in the eighth for his sixth hold.
Hunter Strickland worked a clean combined inning, securing his first hold.
Reid Detmers stranded a runner and allowed a hit while striking out one during his scoreless combined inning.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Héctor Neris | Ryan Zeferjahn

Los Angeles Dodgers – Called upon with two outs and a runner on first, Anthony Banda retired his only batter (Josh Naylor) on three pitches, then collected his fourth win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the tenth.

Tanner Scott suffered his third blown save, allowing a game-tying Gabriel Montero solo home run at the top of the ninth. He returned for the tenth, giving up Corbin Carroll’s one-out, two-run home run, and finished with four hits, three runs (two earned), and two strikeouts over his 1.2 innings. He threw 28 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (10.7 SwStr%).

Ben Casparius retired his only batter via strikeout, stranding all three inherited runners at the top of the eighth for his fourth hold.
Alex Vesia gave up two hits and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the eighth, getting credit for his 11th hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Ben Casparius | Alex Vesia

New York Yankees – Inheriting a runner on third with two outs, Luke Weaver induced a game-ending Josh Smith pop-out and recorded his sixth save, throwing two pitches. He’s been scoreless in his last five appearances and has posted consecutive one-out saves. He owns a 0.58 WHIP with 22 strikeouts versus six walks (21.6 K-BB%) through 20.2 innings.

Ian Hamilton gave up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk during two-thirds of the ninth.
Devin Williams navigated around Wyatt Langford’s one-out double and a wild pitch while striking out two for his fourth hold.
Mark Leiter Jr. tossed 1.1 scoreless frames and recorded two strikeouts.

Hierarchy Remains: Luke Weaver | Devin Williams | Fernando Cruz

San Francisco Giants – Closing a one-run win over the Royals, Ryan Walker notched his ninth save, retiring the 4-5-6 lineup pocket in order on eight pitches (62.5 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s converted a save in his last two appearances and is riding a modest four-game scoreless streak. He’s posted a 1.28 WHIP with 16 strikeouts versus seven walks (11.5 K-BB%) through 18 innings.

Camilo Doval let his only inherited runner score on a Bobby Witt Jr. RBI single and recorded a strikeout over two-thirds scoreless in the eighth for his seventh hold.
Kyle Harrison worked 1.1 innings, giving up a hit and an earned run while striking out two for his first hold.
Randy Rodríguez secured his fourth hold, walking one and striking out three in a scoreless sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Ryan Walker | Camilo Doval | Tyler Rogers

Tampa Bay Rays -After losing yesterday, Manuel Rodríguez benefited from a walk-off rally and recorded his first win. He worked a scoreless top of the ninth, yielding a hit, striking out one on 12 pitches (58.3 Strike%), and induced one whiff.

Pete Fairbanks tossed a scoreless eighth, keeping the game tied, allowing a hit, and striking out two against the Astros’ 4-5-6-7 hitters.
Garrett Cleavinger walked one and struck out two during a scoreless seventh.
Edwin Uceta retired the side and recorded two strikeouts in the sixth.

Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Mason Montgomery

Toronto Blue Jays – Nailing down his tenth save, Jeff Hoffman fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded one strikeout while preserving a combined shutout against San Diego. He threw nine pitches (88.9 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

He has a 1.13 WHIP with 32 strikeouts versus five walks (31.1 K-BB%) across 21.1 innings.

Yariel Rodríguez retired the side and recorded his sixth hold in the eighth. He’s riding a seven-game scoreless streak, during which he has a 0.515 WHIP with a 10:1 K:BB across 9.2 innings.

Brendon Little gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless seventh, securing his ninth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Yimi García | Chad Green

Washington Nationals – Slamming the door on his 15th save, Kyle Finnegan retired the side on ten pitches, all strikes, preserving a two-run win over Atlanta. He faced the 4-5-6 lineup pocket. He has converted six straight save opportunities and been scoreless in five.

Jorge López worked a clean eighth, notching his fourth hold.
Jose A. Ferrer gave up a hit during two-thirds scoreless in the seventh.
Cole Henry recorded his first hold, working a clean combined inning.

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

Quick Hits

Baltimore Orioles: As the “bulk follower,” Chayce McDermott suffered his first loss, allowing four hits, three earned runs, and five walks while striking out two over 4.2 innings. Félix Bautista took over at the bottom of the eighth, his first appearance since May 16, and allowed two hits, including Rhys Hoskin’s solo home run, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the inning. He has allowed at least a run in three consecutive contests.
Cincinnati Reds: Rookie Luis Mey tossed a scoreless bottom of the seventh, giving up a hit, a walk, and a hit batter while striking out one.
Houston Astros: Pressed into action at the bottom of the eighth, Kaleb Ort stranded a runner, keeping the score tied. He returned for the ninth, issuing Christopher Morel a lead-off walk, followed by Brandon Lowe’s pinch-hit double and a game-ending one-out sacrifice fly against Taylor Walls, resulting in his first loss.
Miami Marlins: Taking over a tied game at the top of the sixth, Calvin Faucher allowed five hits, some with low exit velocities, six earned runs, and a walk without recording an out, resulting in his second loss. Lake Bachar let both inherited runners score, allowing three hits and two earned runs with a strikeout in the sixth.
St. Louis Cardinals: Entering a tied game at the top of the eighth, Kyle Leahy issued a walk and induced an inning-ending lineout. During the ninth, he allowed Zach McKinstry’s lead-off single and Riley Greene’s go-ahead RBI double, then retired the next three batters, resulting in his first loss.

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Monkey Bytes | May 20

Monday’s 12-game slate was reduced to an 11-game slate, with one game suspended due to weather. Relievers recorded five wins and seven saves while suffering two losses. There were two 1-out saves and a tough injury announcement after the Cubs’ walk-off loss. Here are the seven saves from last night:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB
Andrés Muñoz	15	4	75	25	1:0
Carlos Estévez	14	9	100	11.1	1:0
Josh Hader	12	11	63.6	0	0:0
Kenley Jansen	9	16	56.3	6.3	1:0
Aroldis Chapman	7	7	85.7	14.3	1:0
Trevor Megill	7	11	54.5	9.1	0:1
Shelby Miller	5	4	75	25	0:0

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for May 20

Lucas Erceg (KC): Estévez has pitched in back-to-back games.
Joel Payamps (MIL): All three relievers in the high-leverage triumvirate have pitched the previous two days.
Kevin Ginkel (ARI): Miller has worked in consecutive contests.
Graham Ashcraft (CIN): Emilio Pagán and Tony Santillan worked three straight games over the weekend and could use a second day off, but it’s not guaranteed.
Bryan King (HOU): Hader and Abreu have appeared in back-to-back games.

Vulture Save Stashes for May 21

Shaun Anderson (LAA): Jansen has pitched in three of the previous four games and will be off on Wednesday if he’s used tonight.

Three Takeaways

(1) Cubs placing Hodge on the IL: When Daniel Palencia took over at the bottom of the ninth with a one-run lead, the fantasy community, including myself, was confused. After the game, this tweet emerged:

Palencia suffered his first loss and a first blown save. After retiring the first two batters, he hung a slider against Derek Hill, resulting in a ground-rule double, walked the number nine hitter, Javier Sanoja, and gave up Jesús Sánchez’s walk-off, two-RBI hit, snapping his ten-game scoreless streak, and nerves potentially played a part. Drew Pomeranz worked a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit and striking out one for his second hold. Ryan Pressly tossed a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and striking out one for his second hold. Caleb Thielbar stranded a runner, retiring all four batters faced, one via strikeout. Brad Keller had pitched in the two previouas games and was unavailable, but until clarity emerges:

Adjusted Hierarchy: *Brad Keller | *Daniel Palencia | *Drew Pomeranz

*= closer-by-committee

(2) Miami’s usage patterns remain a mystery: Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Vincente Bellozo collected his first win. He logged three scoreless frames, allowing two hits and a walk while striking out one. Ronny Henriquez let his only inherited runner score, allowing a hit and a walk with one strikeout in two-thirds of the sixth. Jesús Tinoco suffered his second blown save, giving up four hits, four earned runs, and a walk during one-third of the sixth, nuking his fantasy managers’ ratios. Say it with me: there is no closer in Miami.

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

*= closer-by-committee

(3) Leave Colorado’s saves to someone else: The Rockies have won eight games and produced six saves by four relievers. It’s one thing when saves are sparse; it’s another when fantasy players have no idea who will be in line for them. Last night, with a one-run lead at the top of the eighth, Seth Halvorsen entered against the Phillies’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket. Things did not go well. He allowed a lead-off single, uncorked a wild pitch moving Nick Castellanos to second, recorded a strikeout, then served up Alec Bohm’s go-ahead two-run home run. As the inning continued, he gave up three more hits and two more earned runs on Trea Turner’s two-RBI double before inducing an inning-ending groundout by Bryce Harper. Halvorsen gets tagged with his first loss and second blown save, giving up five hits and four earned runs while striking out one. Jake Bird logged 1.2 innings, yielding a hit and an unearned run for his fourth hold.

Updated Hierarchy: *Zach Agnos | *Seth Halvorsen | Jake Bird

*= closer-by-committee

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Monday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Arizona Diamondbacks – Pressed into action at the bottom of the ninth, Shelby Miller took over with two runners on and two outs. He recorded his fifth save of the season by inducing a game-ending Hyeseong Kim groundout, throwing four pitches (75 Strike%) with one whiff. He’s been scoreless in three of his last four outings while recording a save in each.

Ryan Thompson allowed three hits, two earned runs, and a walk during two-thirds of the ninth.
Scott McGough worked a clean eighth while striking out one.
Juan Morillo tossed a clean seventh, striking out one.

Hierarchy Remain: Shelby Miller | Kevin Ginkel | Jalen Beeks

Boston Red Sox – Securing his seventh save, Aroldis Chapman worked around a one-out single with a game-ending double play groundout, closing a two-run win over the Mets. He threw seven pitches (85.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff (14.3 SwStr%) while striking out one.

He has a 1.06 WHIP with 26 strikeouts versus seven walks (26 K-BB%) through 18 innings.

Justin Slaten stranded two runners at the top of the seventh and logged 1.1 clean frames, striking out one for his first hold.
Greg Weissert notched his sixth hold, stranding a runner in the sixth and working around a hit and a walk while striking out two during his combined inning.
Justin Wilson collected his second win, working a combined inning, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one. He also stranded two runners at the top of the fifth.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Justin Slaten | Greg Weissert

Houston Astros – Despite Chandler Simpson reaching via catcher’s interference at the top of the ninth, Josh Hader recorded his 12th save. He induced a groundout, and the runner reached third on a stolen base but was stranded on a failed bunt attempt pop-out and a game-ending pop-out. Hader threw 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) without a whiff during a scoreless appearance.

He’s posted a 0.81 WHIP with 29 strikeouts against five walks (29.3 K-BB%) across 21 innings.

Bryan Abreu recorded his 12th hold, working 1.1 scoreless frames and giving up a hit.
Bryan King collected his second win, tossing 1.1 scoreless innings, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bryan King

Kansas City Royals – Working around a one-out single, Carlos Estévez notched his 14th save with a scoreless ninth, including a game-ending strikeout against Mike Yastrzemski. He threw nine pitches, all strikes, and induced one whiff (11.1 SwStr%).

He’s been scoreless in 10 of his 11 appearances since April 24, converting his last nine save chances with a 1.121 WHIP and nine strikeouts versus one walk (18.2 K-BB%) across 10.2 innings.

John Schreiber let one of two inherited runners score, allowing a hit and striking out one in two-thirds scoreless during the bottom of the eighth for his fourth hold.
Daniel Lynch IV gave up two hits and an earned run during one-third of the eighth, getting credit for his third hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | Daniel Lynch IV

Los Angeles Angels – Closing out his ninth save, Kenley Jansen navigated around Jacob Wilson’s two-out single with a game-ending strikeout against Tyler Soderstrom, preserving a one-run win over The Athletics. He threw 16 pitches (9 strikes – 56.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

He has a 1.33 WHIP with 13 strikeouts against three walks (16.4 K-BB%) through 14.1 innings.

Héctor Neris worked a clean eighth, striking out one and securing his third hold.
Ryan Zeferjahn notched his sixth hold, walking one during a scoreless seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Héctor Neris | Ryan Zeferjahn

Milwaukee Brewers – Navigating around a lead-off walk and a stolen base with one out, Trevor Megill secured his seventh save with an attempted bunt pop-out, followed by consecutive flyouts. He threw 11 pitches (54.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

He’s converted his last five saves and been scoreless in his previous eight appearances, spanning seven innings, with eight strikeouts against four walks (14.3 K-BB%) and a 1.00 WHIP.

Abner Uribe collected his second win, working around a hit and a walk while striking out three at the top of the eighth.
Jared Koenig stranded a runner, striking out his only batter in the seventh.
Nick Mears suffered his second blown save, letting both inherited runners score on Cedric Mullins’ game-tying three-run home run, and issued a walk while striking out one in one-third of the seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Nick Mears

Philadelphia Phillies – In order of appearance, Joe Ross worked a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit, and was awarded his second win following his team’s four-run rally at the top of the eighth.

Carlos Hernández notched his first hold, retiring the side and striking out one in the eighth.
Tanner Banks tossed a clean ninth, finishing the six-run win.
Orion Kerkering was warming up simultaneously for the save chance, but the Phillies scored three more runs at the top of the ninth.

Hierarchy Remains: Jordan Romano | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

*= floating closer concept with a preferred save share (Romano)

Seattle Mariners – Forced into action at the bottom of the ninth with the bases loaded, Andrés Muñoz retired Michael A. Taylor via strikeout for his 15th save. He only needed four pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff (25 SwStr%) during his one-out save. He owns a 0.73 WHIP with 28 strikeouts versus eight walks (25.6 K-BB%) through 20.2 innings.

Troy Taylor allowed two hits, an earned run, and two walks during two-thirds of the ninth.
Collin Snider retired the side and recorded two strikeouts in the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Casey Legumina | Matt Brash

Quick Hits

Chicago White Sox: Inheriting a runner with one out at the top of the eighth, Cam Booser allowed a walk and two hits, including Julio Rodriguez’s grand slam, putting three earned runs on his ledger during one-third of an inning. This snapped a four-game scoreless streak.
Los Angeles Dodgers: As the “opener,” Jack Dreyer suffered his second loss, giving up three hits, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out one during two innings against Arizona.
Pittsburgh Pirates: David Bednar allowed three hits and two earned runs while striking out two in two-thirds of the eighth. He’s not the closer for Don Kelly.
San Francisco Giants: During a tied game at the top of the eighth, Tyler Rogers allowed Jonathan India’s one-out double and Vinnie Pasquantino’s go-ahead two-run home run, resulting in his second loss.
Tampa Bay Rays: Taking over a tied game at the top of the seventh, Manuel Rodríguez allowed three hits, including Jake Meyers’ go-ahead solo home run, resulting in his second loss. Eric Orze tossed a clean eighth and recorded a strikeout. Mason Montgomery retired the side at the top of the ninth.
The Athletics: Recording his best relief appearance since being activated, Michel Otañez fired two clean frames and recorded three strikeouts on 30 pitches (19 strikes – 63.3 Strike%) with four whiffs (13.3 SwStr%).

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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

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

Statistical Credits: