Closer Monkey

Closer Monkey’s Top 75 for SOLDS

While those in saves formats try figuring out who will win camp competitions for the ninth inning, fantasy managers in SOLDS leagues can focus on the best relievers, preferably on winning teams, when building rosters. For example, relievers provide more SOLDS than saves, illustrated in this chart showing trends for the last three years:

There are at least ten relievers with more than 34 saves in each of the last three years and 12 last season. Here are the SOLDS leaders from 2024:

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

Top 75 for SOLDS

What separates SOLDS from saves in fantasy is that it rewards the best relievers like Griffin Jax, Bryan Abreu, and Cade Smith, even if they set up for closers on their respective teams. With this in mind, here is our Top 75 for SOLDS ahead of the last weekend of drafts, with our blended projections:

Rank	Reliever	Saves	Holds	SOLDS	WHIP	K-BB%
1	Emmanuel Clase	38	0	38	1.06	20.2%
2	Josh Hader	35	0	35	1.092	24.5%
3	Mason Miller	31	0	31	0.999	28.3%
4	Bryan Abreu	5	31	36	1.165	21%
5	Jhoan Durán	30	3	33	1.094	22.8%
6	Griffin Jax	6	27	33	1.094	22.1%
7	Raisel Iglesias	37	0	37	1.106	20.7%
8	Edwin Díaz	30	2	32	1.056	26.1%
9	Ryan Helsley	33	0	33	1.12	21.1%
10	Cade Smith	5	27	32	1.107	22.1%
11	Andrés Muñoz	28	2	30	1.102	22.9%
12	Tanner Scott	25	6	31	1.201	18.6%
13	Ryan Walker	28	2	30	1.154	20.6%
14	Devin Williams	30	1	31	1.152	21.6%
15	Jeff Hoffman	29	0	29	1.099	21.6%
16	Félix Bautista	28	0	28	1.047	26.4%
17	A.J. Puk	11	18	29	1.179	20.2%
18	Jason Adam	13	17	30	1.128	19.2%
19	Jeremiah Estrada	7	22	29	1.17	22%
20	Luke Weaver	8	23	31	1.184	18.5%
21	Aroldis Chapman	12	16	28	1.27	21%
22	Lucas Erceg	12	20	32	1.273	15.9%
23	Camilo Doval	5	21	26	1.257	17.7%
24	Blake Treinen	8	19	27	1.160	19%
25	José Alvarado	12	14	26	1.245	17.2%
26	Justin Martinez	19	4	23	1.296	17%
27	Yennier Cano	6	24	30	1.245	15.4%
28	David Bednar	31	0	31	1.245	16.4%
29	Orion Kerkering	5	18	23	1.121	20.6%
30	Edwin Uceta	10	19	29	1.214	16.7%
31	Yimi García	5	17	22	1.15	19.1%
32	Kirby Yates	8	19	27	1.243	17.5%
33	Jordan Romano	22	2	24	1.246	16.4%
34	Joel Payamps	5	22	27	1.206	15.9%
35	Keegan Akin	5	22	27	1.14	20.7%
36	Tyler Holton	7	16	23	1.145	15.2%
37	Ryan Pressly	26	2	28	1.204	17.4%
38	Kevin Ginkel	6	18	24	1.204	18%
39	Ben Joyce	8	18	26	1.236	17.4%
40	Carlos Estévez	22	7	29	1.27	15.4%
41	José Leclerc	5	22	27	1.262	16.7%
42	Fernando Cruz	1	20	21	1.194	21.3%
43	Kyle Finnegan	27	2	29	1.298	14%
44	Porter Hodge	8	18	26	1.314	14%
45	Tyler Rogers	2	27	29	1.251	11.8%
46	Chris Martin	16	6	22	1.119	19.7%
47	Robert Garcia	6	16	22	1.19	19%
48	Cole Sands	4	17	21	1.182	18.6%
49	Kenley Jansen	26	0	26	1.23	17.7%
50	Pete Fairbanks	19	3	22	1.191	18%
51	Trevor Megill	18	2	20	1.187	20%
52	Garrett Whitlock	7	12	19	1.169	18.7%
53	Colin Holderman	5	19	24	1.292	14.4%
54	Robert Suarez	17	4	21	1.202	16%
55	Justin Slaten	7	18	25	1.283	17.8%
56	Alex Vesia	0	18	18	1.223	19.6%
57	Scott Barlow	13	10	23	1.31	15.7%
58	Dennis Santana	4	21	25	1.323	13.1%
59	Chad Green	5	18	23	1.219	15.5%
60	JoJo Romero	0	19	19	1.25	15.3%
61	Garrett Cleavinger	3	13	16	1.273	16.7%
62	Mason Montgomery	7	16	23	1.259	14.7%
63	Hunter Harvey	2	19	21	1.207	17.5%
64	Alexis Díaz	18	2	20	1.316	13.9%
65	Reed Garrett	1	17	18	1.266	16.9%
66	Anthony Bender	10	13	23	1.261	16.1%
67	Aaron Bummer	2	17	19	1.254	17.4%
68	Ryan Fernandez	7	18	25	1.31	13.8%
69	Gregory Santos	3	18	21	1.193	17%
70	Nate Pearson	3	17	20	1.252	16.8%
71	A.J. Minter	2	15	17	1.143	19.1%
72	Hunter Gaddis	1	21	22	1.223	15.2%
73	Liam Hendriks	14	7	21	1.221	18.5%
74	Héctor Neris	5	15	20	1.286	17.5%
75	Beau Brieske	13	8	21	1.277	13.4%

This should also benefit those who play in leagues that separate saves and holds into two categories. With this in mind, this SPREADSHEET has our blended projections by SGP (Standings Gain Points), which will be slightly different than the rankings above.

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

Statistical Credits:

Steamer projections of Steamerprojections.com on Fangraphs

ATC projections courtesy of Ariel Cohen

ZiPS courtesy of Dan Szymborski

OOPSY projections courtesy of Jordan Rosenblum

Closer Monkey’s Top 40 Closers (1.0)

Although context and league trends can be as important as rankings, going through tiers helps identify how the positional landscape appears. It must be noted that there are four camp competitions for the ninth inning:

Arizona Diamondbacks: Justin Martinez, A.J. Puk, Kevin Ginkel
Boston Red Sox: Liam Hendriks, Aroldis Chapman, Justin Slaten
Colorado Rockies: Seth Halvorsen, Victor Vodnik, Tyler Kinley
Miami Marlins: Calvin Faucher, Jesús Tinoco, Anthony Bender

There are also muddled or potential timeshare situations for the following teams:

Detroit Tigers: Beau Brieske, Tyler Holton, Will Vest, Jason Foley
Kansas City Royals: Carlos Estévez, Lucas Erceg
Los Angeles Dodgers: Tanner Scott, Kirby Yates, Blake Treinen

With this in mind, and using tiers as our guide, our first run of a top 40 for closers.

Tier One

Josh Hader (HOU)
Mason Miller (ATH)
Emmanuel Clase (CLE)
Devin Williams (NYY)
Ryan Helsley (STL)
Edwin Díaz (NYM)
Raisel Iglesias (ATL)

No surprises here, and if one feels strongly about one reliever being above another, act accordingly in your draft or auction. Hader and Miller’s strikeout upside push them ahead of Clase, but volume keeps him near the top.

Tier Two

Jhoan Durán (MIN)
Andrés Muñoz (SEA)
Ryan Walker (SF)
Jeff Hoffman (TOR)
Tanner Scott (LAD)
Félix Bautista (BAL)

Whether it’s past performance, injury concerns, a lack of a track record, or a managed workload, this group presents many intriguing upside options as RP1s but resides below our first tier.

Tier Three

Jordan Romano (PHI)
Ryan Pressly (CHC)
David Bednar (PIT)
Kenley Jansen (LAA)
Carlos Estévez (KC)
Pete Fairbanks (TB)
Trevor Megill (MIL)
Robert Suarez (SD)

This tier features some relievers in shared roles, boring veterans, and two relievers (Megill and Suarez) on whom we remain lower than other sites.

Tier Four

Justin Martinez (ARI)
A.J. Puk (ARI)
Kyle Finnegan (WSH)
Alexis Díaz (CIN)
Chris Martin (TEX)

While Martinez and Puk remain locked in a spring battle for the role, Finnegan and Díaz will be their team’s closer, though ratios keep them in this tier. Martin may be terrific as the closer in Texas, but he’s worked primarily as a set-up reliever and enters his Age-39 season.

Tier Five

Aroldis Chapman (BOS)
Liam Hendriks (BOS)
Beau Brieske (DET)
Griffin Jax (MIN)
Jason Adam (SD)
Lucas Erceg (KC)
José Alvarado (PHI)

This group includes another camp competition at closer, perhaps Detroit’s preferred save option, and three highest-leveraged relievers (HLR) with ancillary save upside.

Tier Six

Mike Clevinger (CHW)
Victor Vodnik | Seth Halvorsen | Tyler Kinley (COL)
Calvin Faucher | Jesús Tinoco | Anthony Bender (MIA)
Cade Smith (CLE)
Bryan Abreu (HOU)
Luke Weaver (NYY)

Although he has not appeared on consecutive days, Clevinger’s first two spring appearances have been clean. Whichever reliever wins the role their respective teams slot below him and three more leverage relievers with strikeout upside, but fewer ancillary saves than the ones in the previous tier.

Because people prefer lists with numbers, here are the relievers with their blended projections and Closer Monkey’s projected save totals.

Rank	Reliever	Wins	Saves	K	IP	ERA	WHIP	K-BB%
1	Josh Hader	5.3	35	94.4	67.1	3.06	1.092	24.5%
2	Mason Miller	3.7	31	98.3	66.7	2.54	0.999	28.3%
3	Emmanuel Clase	4.6	39	72.2	70	2.62	1.06	20.2%
4	Devin Williams	3.8	30	76.3	56.7	2.87	1.152	21.6%
5	Ryan Helsley	4.9	33	80.8	65	2.94	1.12	21.1%
6	Edwin Díaz	4.3	31	88.9	62.3	2.76	1.056	26.1%
7	Raisel Iglesias	4.3	37	73.2	65.2	3.23	1.099	20.6%
8	Jhoan Durán	5.2	30	79.7	63.7	2.54	1.094	22.8%
9	Andrés Muñoz	4.5	28	83.4	62.7	2.61	1.102	22.9%
10	Ryan Walker	4.9	28	84.1	71.7	3.09	1.154	20.6%
11	Jeff Hoffman	3.7	29	80.4	65.7	2.95	1.099	21.6%
12	Tanner Scott	5.3	23	82	68	2.98	1.201	18.6%
13	Félix Bautista	3.9	28	84.8	59	2.64	1.047	26.4%
14	Jordan Romano	3.9	21	75.2	64.7	3.05	1.121	20.6%
15	Ryan Pressly	3.1	26	61.8	59.7	3.45	1.204	17.4%
16	David Bednar	3.8	33	68	64	3.70	1.245	16.4%
17	Kenley Jansen	3	25	62.6	56	3.83	1.23	17.7%
18	Carlos Estévez	3.7	22	59.1	60	3.96	1.27	15.4%
19	Pete Fairbanks	3.4	19	62.2	55	3.32	1.191	18%
20	Trevor Megill	2.8	17	69.3	57.3	3.36	1.187	20%
21	Robert Suarez	3.8	17	61.6	61	3.69	1.202	16%
22	Justin Martinez	4.6	19	89.4	71.7	3.11	1.296	17%
23	A.J. Puk	4.9	11	80.1	67.3	3.29	1.179	20.2%
24	Kyle Finnegan	4	26	55	64	3.94	1.298	14
25	Alexis Díaz	3.7	19	69	63.7	4.11	1.316	13.9%
26	Chris Martin	3.1	15	53.3	52.2	3.31	1.119	19.7%
27	Aroldis Chapman	3.9	12	87.4	60.3	3.21	1.27	21%
28	Liam Hendriks	3.1	14	59.7	54.3	3.70	1.221	18.5%
29	Beau Brieske	3.8	13	68.5	72.3	3.97	1.277	13.4%
30	Griffin Jax	4.9	6	86.2	72.3	3.05	1.094	22.1%
31	Jason Adam	4.2	13	76.7	67	3.32	1.128	19.2%
32	Lucas Erceg	3.9	12	68.8	62.7	3.47	1.273	15.9%
33	José Alvarado	3.2	12	75.4	62	3.15	1.19	18.7%
34	Mike Clevinger	3	16	59.6	57	3.79	1.275	16.3%
35	Victor Vodnik	3.4	9	65	68	4.41	1.466	10.7%
35	Seth Halvorsen	3.3	7	57.3	61	4.53	1.426	11.4%
35	Tyler Kinley	2.7	12	62.5	60.3	4.67	1.395	14%
36	Calvin Faucher	2.7	9	63.7	61	3.91	1.384	13.5%
36	Jesús Tinoco	3.1	9	66.1	64.3	3.70	1.277	15.3%
36	Anthony Bender	3	10	62.8	59.7	3.57	1.261	16.1%
37	Cade Smith	4.3	5	88.7	70.7	2.93	1.107	22.1%
38	Bryan Abreu	4	5	94.8	74	3.14	1.165	21%
39	Edwin Uceta	3.1	10	72.4	66.3	3.69	1.214	16.7%
40	Luke Weaver	3.9	8	81.1	74.3	3.74	1.184	18.5%

Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

Statistical Credits:

Updated 2025 Bullpen Hierarchies

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

American League East

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

Updated Hierarchy: Félix Bautista | Yennier Cano | Seranthony Domínguez

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

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

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

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

*= closer-by-committee

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

Updated Hierarchy: Devin Williams | Luke Weaver | Ian Hamilton

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

Updated Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Garrett Cleavinger

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

Updated Hierarchy: Jeff Hoffman | Yimi García | Chad Green

American League Central

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

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

*= closer-by-committee

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

Updated Hierarchy: Emmanuel Clase | Paul Sewald | Cade Smith

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

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

*= closer-by-committee

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

Updated Hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | Hunter Harvey

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

Updated Hierarchy: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands

American League West

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

Updated Hierarchy: Mason Miller | José Leclerc | Tyler Ferguson

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

Updated Hierarchy: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Forrest Whitley

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

Updated Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Ben Joyce | Brock Burke

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

Updated Hierarchy: Andrés Muñoz | Gregory Santos | Collin Snider

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

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

*= closer-by-committee

National League East

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

Updated Hierarchy: Raisel Iglesias | Pierce Johnson | Dylan Lee

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

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

*= closer-by-committee

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

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

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

Updated Hierarchy: Jordan Romano | Orion Kerkering | Matt Strahm

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

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

National League Central

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

Updated Hierarchy: Ryan Pressly | Porter Hodge | Ryan Brasier

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

Updated Hierarchy: Alexis Díaz | Scott Barlow | Tony Santillan

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

Updated Hierarchy: Trevor Megill | Joel Payamps | Abner Uribe

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

Updated Hierarchy: David Bednar | Dennis Santana | Colin Holderman

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

Updated Hierarchy: Ryan Helsley | Ryan Fernandez | Matthew Liberatore

National League West

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

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

*= closer-by-committee

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

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

*= closer-by-committee

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

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

*= closer-by-committee

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

Updated Hierarchy: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

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

Updated Hierarchy: Ryan Walker | Tyler Rogers | Camilo Doval

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

Statistical Credits:

Top 75 Relievers for SOLDS

Under the Hood: Alzolay and Hader outlooks moving forward

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

Adbert Alzolay, Chicago Cubs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Josh Hader, Houston Astros

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tiered Rankings for SOLDS, April 5

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

Tier One

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

Tier Two

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

Tier Three

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

Tier Four

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

Tier Five

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

Tiered Rankings for Saves, April 5

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

Tier One

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

Tier Two

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

Tier Three

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

Tier Four

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

Tier Five

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

Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community.

Monkey Bytes | March 18

Following his rough outing on Saturday, Alexis Díaz will make his next appearance in a minor league game per Mark Shelton on BlueSky:

At this career stage, Terry Francona does not have the patience for free passes by his closer. Díaz has not recorded a walk rate below 12.6 percent through three seasons. It may not require a demotion as Gordon Wittenmyer of Cincinnati.com suggests, but the door may be open for a reliever with veteran experience (Scott Barlow and Taylor Rogers were mentioned) to receive save chances early in 2025. This remains a developing situation.

Projected Hierarchy: Alexis Díaz | Scott Barlow | Emilio Pagán

Arizona Diamondbacks

There have been no updates regarding the closer competition in Arizona, but two of the relievers vying for the role appeared in the sixth inning of two split-squad contests on Monday. Justin Martinez fired a clean bottom of the fifth and recorded two strikeouts against the 6-7-8 lineup pocket of Kansas City. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He’s posted a 1.00 WHIP with nine strikeouts versus three walks (26.1 K-BB%) over six innings.

A.J. Puk notched his fourth hold, walking one and striking out one in a scoreless top of the sixth, facing 6-7-8-9 hitters for the Angels. He threw 18 pitches (11 strikes – 61.1 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He has a 1.00 WHIP with nine strikeouts against three walks (25 K-BB%) across six innings.

With no clear-cut winner, this remains Torey Lovullo’s decision as Opening Day draws nearer.

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

*= closer competition ongoing

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

In case you have missed them, our two rankings articles posted recently:

Top 40 Closers

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Monday’s spring slate.

Closer CliffsNotes

American League

Kansas City Royals

Logging his second spring appearance, Carlos Estévez allowed a lead-off triple by Jake McCarthy, induced a shallow flyout, and gave up an RBI groundout, resulting in an earned run. Estévez threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) without a whiff. His velocity remains down, but he’s two weeks behind his teammates, which makes his runway for Opening Day tight, though he feels good per reports.

Projected Hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | Hunter Harvey

Los Angeles Angels

Another impressive outing for Ben Joyce. He retired the side and recorded one strikeout while facing the top of the Diamondbacks lineup. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (30 SwStr%). He has a 1.17 WHIP with ten strikeouts versus three walks (27 K-BB%) across six innings.

Projected Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Ben Joyce | Brock Burke

Toronto Blue Jays

Pressed into action at the bottom of the fourth, Jeff Hoffman logged 1.1 scoreless frames. He allowed a hit and a walk while striking out three on 22 pitches (15 strikes – 68.2 Strike%) with four whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He’s posted a 1.20 WHIP with eight strikeouts versus two walks (28.6 K-BB%) through five innings.

Yimi García notched his third hold with a scoreless sixth, giving up a hit and striking out one.

Projected Hierarchy: Jeff Hoffman | Yimi García | Chad Green

National League

Miami Marlins

Taking over at the top of the seventh, Anthony Bender allowed a one-out walk and induced an inning-ending double play. He returned for the eighth and struggled, allowing a hit, two earned runs, and another walk, resulting in his first loss over 1.2 innings.
Calvin Faucher replaced him, letting his only inherited runner score on an RBI single. At the top of the ninth, he allowed two more hits, including a two-run home run and two walks, before being lifted. He finished with three hits, three earned runs, and two walks on his ledger while striking out one over two-thirds combined innings.

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

*= closer competition ongoing

Philadelphia Phillies

Summoned at the top of the seventh, Jordan Romano gave up a hit, hit a batter, and recorded one strikeout. He collected his first win, throwing 17 pitches (10 strikes – 58.8 Strike%) with five whiffs (29.4 SwStr%) over two-thirds of an inning. He has a 0.75 WHIP with eight strikeouts against one walk (25.9 K-BB%) through 6.2 innings.

Projected Hierarchy: Jordan Romano | José Alvarado | Orion Kerkering

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

Statistical Credits:

Monkey Bytes | March 17

Mason Miller allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts in his sixth appearance this spring. By my count, he threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (33.3 SwStr%). He has a 0.67 WHIP with eight strikeouts against one walk (31.9 K-BB%) through six innings. Per the broadcast, he was hitting 102 miles per hour on the stadium radar. He’s ready for Opening Day next week.

In this post by Noah Hiles of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Derek Shelton would not commit to David Bednar being the closer at this point of spring training. Despite the game results, He acknowledged his reliever threw the ball well on Saturday, as covered in our Monkey Bytes yesterday. Still, it’s something fantasy players must weigh when targeting the “Renegade” in drafts or auctions.

As intimated in our Top 40 Closers notes, Anne Rogers shared how the Royals may handle save situations in 2025 in this column for MLB.com:

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Sunday’s spring and exhibition slate.

Closer CliffsNotes

American League

Detroit Tigers

Entering at the top of the fifth, Will Vest allowed two hits, an earned run, and a walk on 21 pitches (12 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) with three whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).
John Brebbia tossed a scoreless sixth, walking and striking out one.
Tyler Holton navigated around two hits and recorded a strikeout in the seventh. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He has a 1.29 WHIP with four strikeouts in 4.2 innings.
Jason Foley retired the side at the top of the ninth on 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) while producing three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%). He’s posted a 1.50 WHIP with eight strikeouts over 5.1 innings.

Projected Hierarchy: *Beau Brieske | *Jason Foley | *Tyler Holton

*= closer-by-committee

Kansas City Royals

Lucas Erceg tossed a scoreless sixth, giving up a hit and striking out three. He threw 23 pitches (13 strikes – 56.5 Strike%) and produced seven whiffs (30.4 SwStr%). He has a 2.00 WHIP with nine strikeouts versus four walks (14.3 K-BB%) over seven innings.

Projected Hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | Hunter Harvey

Minnesota Twins

Working a clean top of the eighth, Griffin Jax allowed a hit and recorded three strikeouts. He threw 15 pitches (80 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (33.3 SwStr%). He has a 1.00 WHIP with seven strikeouts (46.7 K%) through four innings.

Projected Hierarchy: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands

Seattle Mariners

Andrés Muñoz notched his first hold with a scoreless seventh, walking one on 15 pitches (60 Strike%) with two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%). He’s posted a 1.20 WHIP with five strikeouts against two walks (13.6 K-BB%) in five innings.

Projected Hierarchy: Andrés Muñoz | Gregory Santos | Collin Snider

Tampa Bay Rays

In a split-squad game against the Yankees, Edwin Uceta served up two solo home runs and recorded a strikeout in two-thirds of the fourth, resulting in his first blown save. After seven games this spring, he has a 1.65 WHIP with seven strikeouts versus three walks (12.9 K-BB%) over 6.2 innings.
Garrett Cleavinger retired the side in the seventh. He’s posted a 0.56 WHIP with four strikeouts in 5.1 innings.

Projected HIerarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Garrett Cleavinger

National League

Arizona Diamondbacks

Amid a camp competition for the closer role, Kevin Ginkel fired a clean bottom of the sixth and recorded two strikeouts for his fourth hold. He threw 12 pitches (7 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (41.7 SwStr%). He’s posted a 0.56 WHIP with seven strikeouts against one walk (35.3 K-BB%) in 5.1 innings.

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

*= closer competition in camp

Colorado Rockies

Battling for the closer role, Seth Halvorsen tossed a scoreless top of the ninth while issuing one walk. He threw 23 pitches (14 strikes – 60.9 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (13 SwStr%). He’s struggled with his command (61.6 Strike%) this spring, resulting in a 1.95 WHIP with five strikeouts versus five walks in 6.2 innings.

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

*= closer competition in camp

Miami Marlins

Summoned at the top of the sixth, Jesús Tinoco logged 1.2 scoreless frames, allowing a hit and striking out one. He threw 25 pitches (64 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (8 SwStr%). He has a 1.77 WHIP with six strikeouts versus five walks (2.9 K-BB%) through 7.1 innings.

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

*= closer competition in camp

Washington Nationals

Making his second spring appearance, Kyle Finnegan allowed three hits, including a solo home run, and two earned runs at the top of the sixth.

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

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

Statistical Credits: