Closer Monkey

Philadelphia Phillies

ATC projections courtesy of Ariel Cohen

Updated National League Closers | 2026

Catching up with the recent news cycles, there have been numerous free agent signings and alterations to bullpen hierarchies in the National League. As of this writing on January 26, roles can change, but here are our adjusted outlooks for the upcoming season.

Arizona Diamondbacks

Additions: Jonathan Loáisiga (NRI), Taylor Clarke
Projected 2026 Closer: Committee
Watch List: Kevin Ginkel, Loáisiga

Justin Martinez and A.J. Puk are projected to return by the second half, though reports suggest Puk is ahead of Martinez in their rehab return to play protocols. Andrew Saalfrank led the team in saves after the trade deadline, but his underlying data hints at pending regression, especially in his ERA. Loáisiga could be a “bridge” option at closer with a strong camp, just like Shelby Miller last year.

Hierarchy Remains: *Kevin Ginkel | *Andrew Saalfrank | Ryan Thompson

*= closer-by-committee

Atlanta Braves

Additions: Raisel Iglesias (re-signed to a 1-year deal); Robert Suarez, Tyler Kinley
Projected 2026 Closer: Raisel Iglesias

There may be further additions to the leverage ladder, but Iglesias signed a one-year, $16 million contract and has been named the closer despite the team signing Suarez to a three-year deal. But the leash for Iglesias will be much shorter this season, especially if he goes through another rough patch.

Hierarchy Remains: Raisel Iglesias | Robert Suarez | Dylan Lee

Chicago Cubs

Additions: Phil Maton; Hoby Milner, Hunter Harvey, Jacob Webb, Hoby Milner
Projected 2026 Closer: Daniel Palencia
Wild Card: Harvey

As currently constructed, the Cubs likely slot Palencia into the closer role, but staying there depends on how he performs this season and his health. His health history has been checkered, but Hunter Harvey could work his way into save chances like Brad Keller did last year under Tyler Zombro’s guidance. Monitor their results this spring closely.

Updated Hierarchy: Daniel Palencia | Hunter Harvey | Phil Maton

Cincinnati Reds

Additions: Emilio Pagan (re-signed to a two-year deal), Brock Burke, Pierce Johnson
Projected 2026 Closer: Emilio Pagan
Sleeper: Graham Ashcraft

After emerging as the closer in 2025, can Pagan repeat his success?

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Colorado Rockies

Projected 2026 Closer: Victor Vodnik
Wild Card: Seth Halvorsen
Sleeper: Juan Mejia

Under new management and with relievers of interest from the trade deadline last year, could the Rockies restock their minor leagues by trading relief pitchers? A healthy Seth Halvorsen and improvements by his teammates may make this leverage ladder better than years past.

Hierarchy Remains: Victor Vodnik | Seth Halvorsen | Jimmy Herget

Los Angeles Dodgers

Addition: Edwin Diaz (signed a three-year contract)
Projected 2026 Closer: Edwin Diaz

Andrew Friedman is not once bitten and twice shy. Following mixed results by Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates last season, the team added Diaz to the highest average annual value for a reliever in MLB history. Scott will be a set-up reliever in 2026.

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Tanner Scott | Alex Vesia

Miami Marlins

Projected 2026 Closer: Pete Fairbanks

Fairbanks stabilized a fluid match-ups based approach in Tampa Bay, and should do the same for the Marlins this season. In 2024 and 2025, he recorded 50 of the Rays’ 86 saves. However, he did not fit within the team’s financial constraints.

Miami represents an ideal landing spot for the oft-injured reliever with Raynaud’s Syndrome. Here are his results and aggregate average for the last three seasons:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/nI8if/1/
This represents a baseline for 2026, and if he surpasses 50 innings, he could record 25 saves, barring a trade. (Updated on January 26, 2026)

Updated Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Calvin Faucher | Anthony Bender

Milwaukee Brewers

Projected 2026 Closer: Trevor Megill (for now)
Wild Card: Abner Uribe

Part of the smaller market philosophy remains trading players at their peak value. Megill has been in the rumor mill over the last two weeks, and could be traded since the team believes Abner Uribe is ready to take over as the closer. He recorded seven saves and a major league-leading 37 holds in 2025. If Megill’s traded, Uribe takes over as the closer.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

New York Mets

Additions: Devin Williams, Luke Weaver, Luis García, Craig Kimbrel (NRI)
Projected 2026 Closer: Devin Williams

If the team re-signed Díaz, Williams was slated for a set-up role. However, the pathway has been cleared for his ascension as the Mets’ closer. The team has backfilled with relievers capable of closing in case the “Airbender” struggles, but he’s primed and motivated to bounce back in 2026. A.J. Minter will enter the hierarchy, but reports suggest he will not be ready on Opening Day.

Updated Hierarchy: Devin Williams | Luke Weaver | Brooks Raley

Addition: Brad Keller
Projected 2026 Closer: Jhoan Duran

Acquiring Jhoan Duran at the trade deadline has rendered the “floating closer” concept useless. He converted 15 of 17 save chances after joining the Phillies and stabilized the bullpen. He will be one of the first relievers taken in drafts this year.

Updated Hierarchy: Jhoan Duran | Brad Keller | José Alvarado

Pittsburgh Pirates

Additions: Gregory Soto, Mason Montgomery
Projected 2026 Closer: Dennis Santana

Santana remains the preferred save option. If the team struggles, Santana could be moved ahead of the trade deadline. He’s an unrestricted free agent at the end of 2026.

Updated Hierarchy: Dennis Santana | Gregory Soto | Justin Lawrence

San Diego Padres

Projected 2026 Closer: Mason Miller

Miller posted a 0.77 ERA in 22 games for San Diego with 45 strikeouts versus ten walks. He also led the team with the most 100 miles per hour or faster pitches (158) despite his 23.1 innings after his acquisition. Jason Adam may not be ready for Opening Day, but he will enter the hierarchy upon activation this season.

Updated Hierarchy: Mason Miller | Jeremiah Estrada | Adrian Morejon

San Francisco Giants

Additions: Gregory Santos (NRI), Jason Foley
Projected 2026 Closer: Ryan Walker

It’s tough endorsing Walker as the closer when seeing these splits:

During save situations, he owned a 7.04 ERA but posted a 2.50 ERA across his 44 non-save appearances.
He also had a 2.35 ERA at home versus a 5.87 ERA during road contests.

As the roster stands, he’s slotted in as the closer. However, it would not be a surprise to see the team bring in competition for the ninth inning, and Tony Vitello has indicated he may run a match-up-based approach this season.

Hierarchy Remains (for now): Ryan Walker | José Buttó | Erik Miller

St. Louis Cardinals

Projected 2026 Closer: Riley O’Brien or a committee
Wild Card: Matt Svanson

In 19 of his 20 appearances after the All-Star break, O’Brien entered during the eighth or ninth inning. He recorded 12 games finished, including six in his last seven outings in 2025. He finished with a 3-1 record while converting six of nine save opportunities.

However, repeating breakouts with a K-BB percentage below 12 (11.6 in 2025) and a swinging strike rate below 11 percent may be difficult. It can happen, but here are the relievers with a K-BB percentage below 12 and 20 or more saves since 2021:

Link: https://www.sports-reference.com/stathead/tiny/BJWyi

Another wrinkle in this bullpen, the team has had JoJo Romero on the trade block, but he has not been moved. This may change by spring; if not, it means last year’s shared save situation with him, and O’Brien continues.

Hierarchy Remains: *Riley O’Brien | *JoJo Romero | Matt Svanson

*= closer-by-committee

Washington Nationals

Additions: Gus Varland (waiver claim), Griff McGarry (Rule 5)
Projected 2026 Closer: Clayton Beeter (primary save share)

Trading Jose A. Ferrer to Seattle sent this leverage ladder into a shared save situation. Clayton Beeter, PJ Poulin, and Cole Henry worked in high-leverage situations at the end of 2025. Jackson Rutledge could also be in the mix for saves during a spring competition.

Updated Hierarchy: *Clayton Beeter | *Cole Henry | *PJ Poulin

*= closer-by-committee

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Statistical Credits:

Updated American League Closers | 2026

Catching up with the recent news cycles, there have been numerous free agent signings and alterations to bullpen hierarchies in the American League. As of January 26, roles may change, but here are our updated outlooks for the upcoming season.

Baltimore Orioles

Additions: Ryan Helsley, Andrew Kittredge
Projected 2026 Closer: Ryan Helsley

Baltimore believes it can help Helsley overcome the pitch tipping issue he struggled with in New York. He has converted 70 saves over the last two seasons, but must improve his results with his four-seam fastball for a bounce back in 2026:

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

Updated Hierarchy: Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | Keegan Akin

Boston Red Sox

Additions: Jovani Morán, Ryan Watson (Rule 5)
Projected 2026 Closer: Aroldis Chapman

Chapman was one of the best bargains in fantasy last season, based on return on investment versus his draft capital. However, can he repeat last year’s results in his Age-38 season?

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Garrett Whitlock | Justin Slaten

Chicago White Sox

Additions: Seranthony Domínguez, Alexander Alberto (Rule 5), Jadixson Paez (Rule 5)
Projected 2026 Closer: Seranthony Domínguez (primary save share)

After shedding Luis Robert Jr.’s contract, the team addressed its bullpen by adding Domínguez. The White Sox suffered 36 one-run losses last season. He has experience as a closer, and velocity upside, but he struggled against left-handed hitters last year. Adding a split-fingered fastball helped and his splits in save situations for his career suggest he can be a capable closer for 2026, just temper expectations about his ratio statistics:

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

Updated Hierarchy: Seranthony Domínguez | Jordan Leasure | Grant Taylor

Cleveland Guardians

Additions: Shawn Armstrong, Connor Brogdon, Colin Holderman, Payton Pallette
Projected 2026 Closer: Cade Smith

With Emmanuel Clase’s situation unresolved and understanding he may not pitch in an MLB game again, the team has removed his poster outside the stadium and replaced it with Smith’s. Fantasy managers should be doing the same for Cleveland saves in 2026. He filled in capably down the stretch, going 4-1 while converting 13 of 16 save chances following his teammates’ placement on administrative leave.

Updated Hierarchy: Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis | Shawn Armstrong

Detroit Tigers

Additions: Kyle Finnegan, Kenley Jansen
Projected 2026 Closer: Kenley Jansen (primary save share)

When forecasting roles, follow the money. Finnegan signed a two-year contract first, but Jansen’s one-year deal with a team option has the higher AAV, putting him at the top of our projected hierarchy. If he struggles with left-handed hitters again this season, Finnegan may carve out some save opportunities against an opponent’s best left-handed hitter in the ninth. Still, Jansen should be the primary save share, even if A.J. Hinch does not name him his closer for the upcoming season.

Hinch remains adamant there are no roles in the bullpen, which leaves save distribution open to interpretation. Jansen should lead the team in them, but he will not be the designated closer fantasy managers crave.

Updated Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Kyle Finnegan | Will Vest

Houston Astros

Additions: Nate Pearson, Roddery Muñoz (Rule 5)
Projected 2026 Closer: Josh Hader

Targeting Hader at a reduced price point depends on one’s aversion to risk. He finished 2025 on the injured list with a shoulder capsule strain. Because of this, he will work one-inning outings almost exclusively this season. His health this spring will determine if his average draft position rises or falls. Anyone taking him should be targeting Bryan Abreu on their roster, just in case.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bryan King

Kansas City Royals

Additions: Matt Strahm, Nick Mears, Alex Lange
Projected 2026 Closer: Carlos Estevez

Not only did Estévez lead the majors in saves last season, but he suppressed his batting average on balls in play for a second consecutive year. Can this continue with a declining whiff rate and a K-BB percentage below 12 percent? It’s tough trusting a reliever with a 2.45 ERA, a 3.69 xERA, and a 4.43 SIERA, but he has proven critics wrong in the past. Are you feeling lucky?

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | Matt Strahm

Los Angeles Angels

Additions: Kirby Yates, Drew Pomeranz, Jordan Romano
Projected 2026 Closer: Robert Stephenson
Wild Card: Ben Joyce

After allowing Jansen to leave via free agency, the Angels hope Stephenson and, eventually, Joyce will be healthy enough to pitch in high-leverage innings. If they are not, they hope Romano can find his past form. If all of this goes awry, a reliever like Kirby Yates may be needed for saves. This situation feels like a trap based on hope.

Updated Hierarchy: Robert Stepheson | Kirby Yates | Jordan Romano

Minnesota Twins

Addition: Taylor Rogers
Projected 2026 Closer: Committee

Ahead of the trade deadline, the team gutted its leverage ladder, trading Jhoan Duran, Griffin Jax, and Louis Varland. From August on, Minnesota only converted eight saves by five different relievers, with only Justin Topa (four) recording more than one. Remember, this covered a two-month span, so four saves occurring sporadically does not scream roster me.

Updated Hierarchy: *Justin Topa | *Kody Funderburk | *Cole Sands

*= closer-by-committee

New York Yankees

Addition: Cade Winquest (Rule 5)
Projected 2026 Closer: David Bednar

Following a tough debut in the Bronx, Bednar finished strong, including time in Pittsburgh. Over his final 61 appearances, he went 6-3 with 23 saves, a 1.90 ERA, and 85 strikeouts across 61.2 innings. But, if he struggles, can Camilo Doval or Fernando Cruz display enough command to replace him?

Hierarchy Remains: David Bednar | Camilo Doval | Fernando Cruz

Seattle Mariners

Addition: Jose A. Ferrer, Cooper Criswell
Projected 2026 Closer: Andrés Muñoz

Muñoz went 3-3 with a career-high 38 saves, a 1.73 ERA, a 1.03 WHIP, and 83 strikeouts versus 28 walks across 62.1 innings. Can he produce a near repeat? Should fantasy players be nervous about his velocity?

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Jose A. Ferrer

Tampa Bay Rays

Additions: Steven Wilson, Yoendrys Gómez
Projected 2026 Closer: Committee

When the team declined an option for Pete Fairbanks, it signalled a return to past practice during high-leverage innings. Per reports by multiple beat writers, the Rays are comfortable sharing saves between Griffin Jax, Garrett Cleavinger, and Edwin Uceta this season. One could emerge as the preferred save share, and if that happens, we hedge toward Jax.

Hierarchy Remains: *Griffin Jax | *Garrett Cleavinger | *Edwin Uceta

*= closer-by-committee

Texas Rangers

Additions: Tyler Alexander, Alexis Diaz, Chris Martin, Josh Sborz (NRI)
Projected 2026 Closer: Committee
Wild Card: Emiliano Teodo

More relievers may be added before spring training; however, for now, reports indicate the team could open the year with Díaz as its closer, given the 65 he recorded between 2023 and 2024. Does this ensure future success? It does not. Monitor his usage patterns, the news cycle, and his velocity reports this spring closely before dipping one’s toes in the water.

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/KhD79/2/

Updated Hierarchy: *Robert Garcia | *Alexis Díaz | *Chris Martin

*= closer-by-committee

The Athletics

Additions: Mark Leiter Jr.
Projected 2026 Closer: Committee

The team went 28 – 23 (.549) from August 1 until the end of 2025 after trading Mason Miller. In one-run games, they were 7 – 6 (.538), but in games decided by two runs or fewer, they were 8 – 9 (.471). In this timeframe, the team recorded 10 saves, dispersed as follows:

Hogan Harris (4)
Michael Kelly and Sean Newcomb (2 each)
Osvaldo Bido and Tyler Ferguson (1 each)

Of the ten saves, four required four or more outs, including two by Harris. Even though Justin Sterner did not record a save over the last two months in 2025, he led the team in K-BB percentage (29.9) while posting a 16.3 percent swinging strike rate. He, Harris, and Leiter Jr. project as the high-leverage triumvirate, but the team can still add relievers.

Hierarchy Remains: *Mark Leiter Jr. | *Hogan Harris | *Justin Sterner

*= closer-by-committee

Toronto Blue Jays

Additions: Tyler Rogers
Projected 2026 Closer: Jeff Hoffman

Within two outs from its first World Championship since 1993, Hoffman allowed a game-tying solo home run by Miguel Rojas. Hoffman had not allowed a home run during the entire postseason despite giving up 15 during the regular season. He had peaks and valleys during the season, illustrated by his splits:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/6Tzfs/5/

Still, among American League relievers, ranked third in saves and ninth in strikeouts (84). He also ranked third in the AL in chase rate (34.7 percent), trailing only Griffin Jax (37.8 percent) and Garrett Whitlock (35 percent).

Updated Hierarchy: Jeff Hoffman | Yimi García | Tyler Rogers

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Statistical Credits:

Player Profile 2026 | Carlos Estévez

It has been a quiet news cycle for closers in the new year. However, Tuesday featured an announcement by the Royals that they will be moving in the fences at Kauffman Field:

Carlos Estévez was already a candidate for regression in 2026, and this news does not help. His PullAIR percentage rose by almost three percentage points last season while working with reduced velocity (AIR is a Statcast metric that combines fly balls and line drives). Beginning with his spray chart during home games on line drives and fly balls in 2025:

If he continues allowing most of his fly balls to dead center, there may not be a rise in home runs allowed. In terms of a spray chart, these events appear as such:

Taking this a step further, his batted ball events with a distance greater than 350 feet are illustrated below:

And a list of each event:

After watching the videos of each event, four could be home runs with the adjusted dimensions:

Daulton Varsho
Denzel Clarke
Jeff McNeil
Gabriel Arias

Of these, only one would not have been a solo shot, but simply adding five earned runs to his home ERA has a causative effect. In 2025, he posted a 2.48 ERA at home, and with these potential changes, it would have been 3.72. It’s not as extreme when viewing a rise from his 2025 ERA of 2.45 to 3.14 with five more earned runs, but it moves closer toward his 3.69 xERA and 4.43 SIERA.

Only two more qualified pitchers allowed more AIR (fly balls plus line drives) than his 74.6 percent in 2025. If he allows more pulled fly balls, the advantage he had during home games disappears. It went from 18.8 in 2024 to 21.7 last season; another three percentage-point rise would be less than ideal.

He may be the poster player for fades in 2026, especially for the skills-over-role crowd. He’s insulated by a defined role with a patient manager after leading the majors with 42 saves last season.

But Estévez was the only qualified reliever with more than 20 saves and a swinging strike rate below ten percent. Only eight relievers had a higher contact rate allowed. The trends in his underlying data cannot be ignored when he’s being taken in the first 100 picks of NFBC drafts:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/GV1Rg/1/

There were some valleys in his production when viewing strikeouts, but saves never waned. For our purposes, his splits by four-seam velocity last year, though there is some pitch overlap when using Statcast’s search engine. My chart reflects 594 four-seams, but he only threw 558 last year. Still, it’s worth sharing:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/sbs3z/1/

His average draft position was depressed because many fantasy managers did not trust that he would be the Royals’ closer. This year, he’s the tenth reliever taken in early drafts, according to Fantasy Pros.

His early projection sets agree on migration to the mean, and OOPSY upped his ratios following the ballpark adjustments in his home stadium:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/LT21Q/1/

In my estimation, Estévez has earned a long leash with the Royals, but has a club option for 2027, which would increase his salary from $10.1 million to $13 million. If he struggles with velocity or performance, he could lose his grip on the closer role and the option for next year.

Last year, he was a buy at his ADP. This year, he represents a fade based on the underlying data. He could repeat his save total, but it’s a fickle statistic. His lack of strikeout upside, combined with the ratio risks at his current price point, may be a deadly combination for fantasy players. Let someone else take the bait on his save total from 2025.

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

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/LT21Q/1/

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

Closer Monkey’s Emails

Going forward, the daily emails have changed. Those interested in daily free updates with links should subscribe to our Substack page.

Statistical Credits:

Steamer projections of Steamerprojections.com on Fangraphs

ZiPS courtesy of Dan Szymborski

OOPSY projections courtesy of Jordan Rosenblum

Closer Monkey Update | Emmanuel Clase

Despite our warnings, Emmanuel Clase has a 284.36 ADP through the first 11 NFBC Draft Champions leagues drafted for the 2026 season. In these drafts, he has a minimum pick of 89 and a maximum selection at 585th overall. After finishing 2025 on non-disciplinary leave, he was indicted for his involvement with gamblers.

Beginning with Jeff Passan’s article for ESPN:

And continues:

Noting innocence before being proven guilty, things do not look great for Clase. As Zach Meisel of The Athletic notes, a lifetime ban could ensue:

It’s possible he threw his last pitch for the organization on July 28 while recording his 24th save of the season, and his 181st for the Guardians. No reliever has recorded more since 2021, with Josh Hader (165) and Kenley Jansen (164) a distant second and third in the category despite Clase’s season being cut short.

In the same 11 drafts, Cade Smith has a 61.73 ADP with a minimum pick of 49 and a maximum pick of 84, but this news may make his price point in this format rise in the coming weeks. He is one of three relievers with at least 100 strikeouts in the last two seasons, joining Mason Miller and Bryan Abreu. Smith also posted a 4-1 record while converting 13 of 16 save chances following his teammates’ placement on administrative leave. During this timeframe, he ranked sixth in saves, seventh in innings pitched (29), sixth in strikeouts (39), third in K-BB percentage (33.6 percent), third in SIERA (1.80), and 25th in swinging strike rate (15.6 percent).

Clarity should emerge before the start of the upcoming season, but Cleveland will be moving on from Clase; fantasy owners should follow suit.

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

Statistical Credits:

2025 Tout Wars Summary | OBP/IP/SOLDS

It’s an honor to be part of the Tout Wars community. After competing in the Head-to-Head auction league since 2021 and being the league champion in 2023, I switched to the online 15-team live draft this year. There are caveats in this league that intrigued me. It uses on-base percentage instead of batting average, innings pitched rather than wins, and SOLDS in the place of saves. As a relief pitcher expert, participating in a league with SOLDS enhances my content, which is why I made the change.

Many of the experts in this league were returning from the previous season, making things challenging since I was not sure how players, especially relievers, would be valued in this format. For the online draft, each expert chose their draft spot in order of their respective finish in the previous season. The first-place team had the first choice of draft position, and I secured the fifth spot based on qualifying for the playoffs in the head-to-head league in 2024, and I chose the fifth spot in the draft, near the middle, which can work well.

With the format using on-base percentage, I had Aaron Judge and José Ramírez as my preferred options, and Cleveland’s talented third baseman was available, making him my first pick in this league. He was also on my first head-to-head team in 2021. I was shocked to see so many hitters being taken, and with my pick approaching in the second round, Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes remained on the board. There was not a bad choice in this format since wins were not part of the equation, and I went with Skubal, putting two NFBC first round picks on my Tout squad.

This helped mitigate some rookie mistakes in the draft, such as passing on Kyle Schwarber for Brent Rooker at utility. However, a solid base of hitters was amassed, which will be illustrated shortly. As for relievers, they drifted, as they should, because SOLDS should make the most talented and productive relievers more available. I reached for Griffin Jax when closers began to be taken. My background covering relievers makes it easier to let them drift in this type of format and as you can see, I only accrued five points in SOLDS from my drafted roster:

In fact, SOLDS and on-base percentage were my two weak points based on this summary. Sparing all of us from victory laps, because I made mistakes throughout the season, the focal point should be about the format and planning for success in leagues with SOLDS moving forward.

During the three seasons preceding 2025, here are the Main Event averages for relievers (saves) from the top-25 teams in the overall competition as a baseline:

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

In a 15-team league with weekly free agent acquisitions (FAAB), one needs around 67 saves to finish in the top 25 in this format. Not all teams are built the same, but it provides insight into how they handle this category.

As for MLB teams, here are recent trends from the previous three years:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/J9RAU/1/

How does this same chart look for SOLDS? I am happy you asked:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/7xb7w/1/

As Ron Burgundy would say, things escalated quickly. Fantasy players in this format are not concerned about who may get the next save for the Marlins or White Sox. They can focus on the best relievers on the best teams based on the spike in volume that saves-plus-holds provide. Here are the top-10 teams by SOLDS from 2025, nine were teams with a winning percentage greater than five hundred:

Team	W	L	Win%	Saves	Holds	SOLDS
LAD	93	69	.574	46	124	170
CLE	88	74	.543	47	111	158
CHC	92	70	.568	44	109	153
SDP	90	72	.556	49	103	152
MIL	97	65	.599	45	105	150
CIN	83	79	.512	41	104	145
NYY	94	68	.580	43	100	143
BAL	75	87	.463	38	105	143
NYM	83	79	.512	40	100	140
TOR	94	68	.580	42	95	137

Relievers can be an asset in SOLDS leagues based on usage patterns, not solely reliant on a team’s win percentage. Here are the relievers with at least 30 SOLDS from 2025:

Name	Saves	Holds	SOLDS
Abner Uribe	7	37	44
Carlos Estévez	42	0	42
Robert Suarez	40	0	40
Tony Santillan	7	33	40
Andrés Muñoz	38	0	38
Hunter Gaddis	3	35	38
Aroldis Chapman	32	4	36
Cade Smith	16	19	35
Emilio Pagán	32	2	34
Jeff Hoffman	33	0	33
Jhoan Duran	32	1	33
Devin Williams	18	15	33
Ronny Henriquez	7	26	33
Jeremiah Estrada	3	30	33
Mason Miller	22	10	32
Jose A. Ferrer	11	21	32
JoJo Romero	8	24	32
Bryan Abreu	7	25	32
Tyler Rogers	0	32	32
Raisel Iglesias	29	2	31
David Bednar	27	4	31
Tanner Scott	23	8	31
Brendon Little	1	30	31
Trevor Megill	30	0	30
Alex Vesia	5	25	30

As the season progressed, I added Tony Santillan and Emilio Pagán from this group. Will Vest just missed, but was also a source of SOLDS from the waiver wire. Jose A. Ferrer was a late-season stream option, but was benched for the last week of the season. I also picked up Brad Keller for September’s stretch run, helping my team finish fourth in SOLDS, a net gain of six standings points in the category:

Sometimes, you have to burn and churn your way up the standings, and for SOLDS, I was able to accomplish this feat, which will be noted for next year.

However, as my team entered contention, some tough roster decisions were made on a weekly basis. Ryan Boyer jumped out to a commanding lead, but my team was able to creep closer in the standings, eventually taking the lead in mid-September. There was a logjam in the innings category, so I couldn’t deploy more relievers to protect the ratios; I had to keep seven starters in the active lineup. This was made easier by a mid-season free agency addition of Trevor Rogers for $36.

Additionally, having no injured list cap allowed Yu Darvish and Shane Bieber to be protected from the live draft for use down the stretch. My biggest mistake was Trevor Story. After having him active through a rough patch, I gave up on him and dropped him, before his tremendous finish to the season. If I finished second in the league, this would have haunted me.

At the end of the season, my roster spots were filled as such:

Catcher

Drake Baldwin and Gabriel Moreno (both added via free agency pick-ups)
J.T. Realmuto on the bench (he was drafted)

Corner Infielders

Vinnie Pasquantino and Pete Alonso at 1B and CI (both were drafted)
José Ramírez at 3B (draft)
Yandy Díaz at utlity (acquired via trade)

Middle Infielders

Brandon Lowe at 2B (drafted)
Colson Montgomery at SS (added via free agency)
Xander Bogaerts at MI (drafted)

Outfield

Brent Rooker (drafted)
Dominic Canzone, Gavin Sheets, Daylen Lile, and Will Benson (all added via free agency)

Starting Pitcher

Tarik Skubal, Logan Webb, Tanner Bibee, Ryan Pepiot, Yu Darvish, Shane Bieber (all drafted)
Trevor Rogers (added via free agency)

Relief Pitcher

Emilio Pagán, Brad Keller, Will Vest, Jose A. Ferrer (all added via free agency)

It was a learning experience, and I need to improve my targeting of on-base percentage players in 2026. However, the league was entertaining and represents my second Tout Wars title since 2021. Thanks for reading and here’s hoping for more success in the years to come.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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

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

Statistical Credits:

Under the Hood | 2025 2H vs. 1H Gainers in K-BB% and SwStr%

This process can be challenging due to the sample size, but adjustments or breakouts do occur after the All-Star break. Our first segment features qualified relievers with the highest gains by percentage points in K-BB and swinging strike rate. There will be some overlap between relievers who appear on both lists, but relievers of interest for 2026 will be highlighted in each category.

K-BB% Gainers

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gqfG6/1/

Relievers of Interest

Jordan Leasure (CHW)

2H Results: 3-1 record, five saves in six opportunities, five holds, 30.1 IP, 41:9 K:BB, 0.792 WHIP
Notable: Allowed 15 hits in the second half; six were home runs.

Unlike many on the list, there were no discernible changes in arsenal or approach. However, his splits by month and half-season illustrate that he improved his strike percentage after the All-Star break, which enhances his results:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/df5Lt/1/

Carrying over these gains and his role will determine his fantasy impact in 2026.

Pete Fairbanks (TB)

2H Results: 0-2 record, 12 saves in 14 save opportunities, 24.1 IP, 28:3 K:BB, 0.905 WHIP
Notable: Allowed 19 hits in the second half; six were home runs.

Remaining healthy for a full season represents a win for those who took him as a fallback option at closer this season. His second half provides mixed results and may make him too costly for the Rays since his incentives will drive his team option for 2026 over $11 million. For our purposes, his splits by month and half-season:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/L9Xpf/1/

He could surprise the fantasy community once again, but if he’s traded, destination and role will determine how many saves he will accrue. I do not plan on paying to find out for next season.

Kyle Finnegan (WSH/DET)

2H Results: 3-1 record, six saves in seven opportunities, 22.1 IP, 28:6 K:BB, 0.987 WHIP
Notable: Will he retain the pitch mix tweak from the Tigers?

During the preseason, I did a deep dive on Finnegan which concluded he should be throwing more four-seam fastballs in the upper-third of the strike zone.

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

With this in mind, his usage patterns shifted after being traded to Detroit:

More importantly, he threw more elevated four-seam fastballs from August forward:

Which paired well with his split-fingered fastball locations, attacking hitters at the top and the bottom of the strike zone:

Which resulted in much improved results with the Tigers:

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

Fantasy managers must determine if this was a hot stretch or an alteration which will be maintained next season. As a free agent, he represents a potential bridge option as the closer until a replacement becomes available.

Brad Keller (CHC)

2H Results: 1-1 record, 3 saves and 11 holds, 27.2 IP, 35:8 K:BB, 0.578 WHIP
Notable: Was scoreless in 27 of 28 appearances following the All-Star break, allowing one earned run on a solo home run.

A former starting pitcher, Keller effectively transitioned to relieving in the second half, utilizing five different pitches. His improvement lay in attacking the strike zone more frequently (64.1 strike percentage), resulting in a 12.1 percent swinging strike rate. This chart displays how he attacks hitters by handedness:

Getting this template honed unlocked his second-half results and sets him up for a potential payday. He signed a one-year, $1.5 million contract with the Cubs and will be a free agent at the end of the postseason.

Mason Miller (ATH/SD)

2H Results: Three saves in four save opportunities, 10 holds, 26 IP, 47:11 K:BB, 0.692 WHIP
Notable: Finished the regular season on a 20-game scoreless streak, spanning 21.1 innings.

For starters, he threw more sliders than fastballs after joining the Padres:

It was a slow process, but fueled his strong finish, highlighted above. Here were his splits by pitch with San Diego:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ilmK1/1/

He is a dominant force during high-leverage events and if Robert Suarez invokes his opt-out and Miller does not get stretched out for a rotation spot next spring, Miller will be the first reliever taken in most drafts.

Jhoan Duran (MIN/PHI)

2H Results: 2-2 record, 17 saves in 20 opportunities, 26.2 IP, 31:3 K:BB, 1.049 WHIP
Notable: Notched 16 of these saves with the Phillies.

If Miller is the first reliever taken, Duran will not be far behind. An improved team concept and a secure role in the ninth inning will put an end to the team’s “floating closer” concept from years past. There were slight tweaks in his pitch usage after joining the Phillies:

Here are his pitch splits by team this season:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/WF8Kz/1/

With health, 40 saves and 90-plus strikeouts could be in store next year.

SwStr% Gainers

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/d35fE/1/

Relievers of Interest

Garrett Whitlock (BOS)

2H Results: 2-2, 13 holds, 26.2 IP, 34:5 K:BB, 0.899 WHIIP
Notable: Ended 2025 on a 13-game scoreless streak, during which he recorded 22 strikeouts versus two walks across 14.1 innings.

As the year progressed, Whitlock’s outings became more streamlined. He recorded more than three outs in 14 contests during the first half, but only worked extended outings in four games after the All-Star break. This helped his whiff rates rise, along with slight adjustments to his arsenal:

He ramped up his change-up during the second half, yielding the following splits by half-season:

Second Half 2025

Sinker: 46.2 percent usage, 20.7 swinging strike percentage, 33.6 percent whiff rate
Slider: 36.3 percent usage, 21.2 swinging strike percentage, 36.2 percent whiff rate
Change-up: 21.2 percent usage, 21.3 swinging strike percentage, 32.7 percent whiff rate

First Half 2025

Sinker: 47.6 percent usage, 14.4 swinging strike percentage, 29.6 percent whiff rate
Slider: 26.4 percent usage, 17.9 swinging strike percentage, 38 percent whiff rate
Change-up: 20.7 percent usage, 16.9 swinging strike percentage, 30.8 percent whiff rate

Plan on his second half patterns persisting in the postseason and next year. He remains a alluring target for those in SOLDS formats or draft and hold leagues.

Devin Williams (NYY)

2H Results: 1-3 record, five saves in eight opportunities, eighth holds, 26.2 IP, 44:11 K:BB, 1.161 WHIP
Notable: Finished the regular season on a nine-game scoreless streak, recording 12 strikeouts verus two walks while posting a 0.556 WHIP.

There will not be a varied arsenal chart for the reliever, though Statcast did credit him with two cutters during the second half. I found this video by Trevor May very interesting about Williams, which may be a key toward a bounce back in 2026. Where he signs will directly impact his fantasy status coming off a down year.

For our purposes, his splits by half-season:

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

Through 241 appearances with the Brewers, he owned a 1.023 WHIP with 375 strikeouts versus 112 walks across 235.2 innings. Steamer will foretell a rebound, if he’s near these numbers, 30-plus saves could be in the offing, but it’s highly unlikely he will be back with the Yankees.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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

Statistical Credits:

American League Closer Preview | 2026

Understanding this process does not guarantee that a pitcher will be his team’s closer next year. This post will assess the potential candidates after players can enter free agency, which helps set the stage for which relievers may be at the top of their hierarchy on Opening Day. It will include pending free agents and relievers with options once the World Series transpires.

As the season winds down, tips help offset costs. If we have helped out, please return the favor. If you would like to leave a tip, please use this link for PayPal. Venmo can be sent to @gjewett9.

Baltimore Orioles

No pending free agents or relievers with options on the 2025 roster
Projected 2026 Closer: Not on the current roster

This season has been disappointing for the Orioles, and if the team plans to contend, it will need to restock its bullpen. Félix Bautista suffered a significant shoulder injury and will miss a large portion of the upcoming season. The team could opt for a veteran with closer experience on a one-year deal as a bridge to Bautista’s eventual return, which makes sense. Adding a reliable right-handed set-up reliever should also be a priority for 2026.

Boston Red Sox

Pending free agent: Justin Wilson
Reliever with an option: Liam Hendriks (Mutual for $12 million)
Projected 2026 Closer: Aroldis Chapman

Removing speculation about next year, the team extended Aroldis Chapman. There will be games he’s deployed against an opponent’s best hitting pocket if it contains a left-handed hitter, but through games played on September 21, he has recorded 31 of his team’s 43 saves.

Chicago White Sox

Pending free agent: Tyler Alexander
Projected 2026 Closer: Jordan Leasure
Watch List: Peyton Pallette

In the team’s first 156 games, eight different relievers have recorded 24 saves under first-year manager Will Venable. Only two (Jordan Leasure and Grant Taylor) have posted at least five. Usage patterns have remained unpredictable throughout the season, making it challenging to designate anyone a closer under his guidance. There is also a chance Taylor could be stretched out for a spot in the rotation next year, similar to how the franchise has developed Chris Sale and Garrett Crochet in the past. Amid a rebuild, paying top dollar for a closer does not fit the team’s modus operandi.

As for Leasure, he has recorded a win, three saves, and two holds while posting a 0.364 WHIP with 10 strikeouts against two walks across 11 scoreless frames. Can he build on this momentum next year?

Cleveland Guardians

Pending free agent: Jakob Junis
Projected 2026 Closer: Cade Smith

It has not all been smooth sailing for Cade Smith since taking over as the closer. However, he has recorded triple-digit strikeouts in each of the last two seasons and converted 12 of 15 saves since August 4. Entering the off-season, planning on Emmanuel Clase not pitching again in the majors remains a possibility. If he does get cleared for a return, it is likely to be with a different franchise.

Detroit Tigers

Pending free agents: Kyle Finnegan, Tommy Kahnle, Rafael Montero
Reliever with an option: Paul Sewald (Mutual for $10 million)
Projected 2026 Closer: TBD

Prefacing this with A.J. Hinch’s preference for not labeling his relievers as closers, the Tigers would be better off pushing all their chips in this winter and reinforcing the bullpen. Continued half-measures in free agency and churning through veterans in hopes of rebounds have not worked. Could Finnegan return on a team-friendly deal below market value at closer? Absolutely. But more must be done in the team’s evaporating “Skubal window.”

Houston Astros

No pending free agents or relievers with options on the 2025 roster
Projected 2026 Closer: Josh Hader
Watch List: Brett Gillis

Not only did Josh Hader rebound in 2025, but he was also elite until a shoulder issue sidelined him on August 15. Shoulder injuries can be scary, which makes him a reliever fantasy managers will monitor closely this winter. If you are risk-averse, he may not be on your radar for 2026. It also may make Bryan Abreu a must-handcuff or sneaky late-round target.

Kansas City Royals

Pending Free Agent: Hunter Harvey
Projected 2026 Closer: Carlos Estévez
Watch List: Dennis Colleran

Exceeding anyone’s expectations with his first 40-save campaign, Carlos Estévez will return as the closer in 2026. This year, he was a value in the preseason; next year, fantasy players will pay full price for his save total, making him riskier from a price point perspective.

Los Angeles Angels

Pending Free Agents: Kenley Jansen, Andrew Chafin, Luis García
Projected 2026 Closer: TBD
Watch List: Najer Victor

A reunion of Kenley Jansen and the Angels feels inevitable as he pursues 500 career saves. This lets Ben Joyce and Robert Stephenson return to full health without the pressure of being the closer.

Minnesota Twins

No pending free agents
Reliever with an option: Justin Topa (Club for $2 million)
Projected 2026 Closer: David Festa

Remember when Jhoan Duran was an oft-injured starting pitcher prospect who remained healthy and thrived as a reliever? In 25 career major league appearances, David Festa‘s splits by these two pitches:

Change-up: 28 K-BB%, .268 weighted on-base average (wOBA), 20.4 SwStr%
Slider: 22.3 K-BB%, .266 weighted on-base average (wOBA), 14.4 SwStr%

Health and his eventual role will determine how prescient this will be, but crazier things have happened.

New York Yankees

Pending Free Agents: Devin Williams, Luke Weaver
Relievers with options: Jonathan Loáisiga (Club for $5 million), Tim Hill (Club for $3 million)
Projected 2026 Closer: David Bednar

Since his acquisition, David Bednar has converted eight of 11 save opportunities with 14 games finished of 19 appearances, spanning 21.2 innings. He has posted a 0.923 WHIP with 30 strikeouts against seven walks (27.1 K-BB%) and a 15.5 swinging strike percentage.

Seattle Mariners

Pending Free Agent: Caleb Ferguson
Reliever with an option: Andrés Muñoz (Club for $6 million)
Projected 2026 Closer: Andrés Muñoz

Faced with a decision even a caveman can handle, the Mariners will trigger their option to retain Muñoz. Once again, the team should target veterans capable of setting up for him, but they do well making the most of their bullpen options.

Tampa Bay Rays

No pending free agents
Reliever with an option: Pete Fairbanks (Club for $11 million)
Projected 2026 Closer: TBD

Hitting his contract bonuses this season, Fairbanks has raised his potential salary from $7 million to over $11 million by virtue of his career highs in innings (58.1) and saves (27). But if the team picks up his option, which goes against how the Rays construct a bullpen, Fairbanks will be a free agent at the end of 2026. He’s a likely candidate for a trade before the season begins.

If this happens, and Griffin Jax does not enter the rotation, he’s my pick for closer next year. However, if Jax is stretched out as a starter, our preference shifts to Edwin Uceta, although it could revert to a matchup-based bullpen.

Texas Rangers

Pending Free Agents: Shawn Armstrong, Phil Maton, Chris Martin, Hoby Milner, Danny Coulombe
Projected 2026 Closer: TBD
Watch List: Eric Loomis

A massive roster overhaul looms for this franchise. Can Emiliano Teodo and Marc Church step up while remaining healthy next year? Will Josh Sborz return? Will they bring in a veteran on an incentive-based deal? From a fantasy perspective, does it matter?

The Athletics

Pending Free Agent: Sean Newcomb, José Leclerc
Projected 2026 Closer: TBD

Since trading Mason Miller, five different relievers have combined for ten saves in a match-up-based approach by Mark Kotsay. Next year’s preferred save share is not on the roster.

Toronto Blue Jays

Pending Free Agent: Seranthony Domínguez
Projected 2026 Closer: Jeff Hoffman

To say the least, it’s been a tumultuous first season as a closer for Jeff Hoffman. Through his team’s first 156 games, he has suffered seven blown saves and allowed 15 home runs while converting 32 saves. His results have varied by month, and he’s entering the postseason with diminished velocity:

He will be an intriguing reliever for debate this winter regarding his fantasy value.

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

Statistical Credits:

Closer Monkey Month in Review | June 2025

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

League Saves through June

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

Blown saves through June

2025: 369
2024: 367
2023: 361

Save Opportunities through June

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

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

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

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

Individual Results and Trends from June 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saves Leaders

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

Holds Leaders

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

SOLDS Leaders

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

Strikeouts and Swinging Strike Percentage Leaders

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

K-BB Percentage and WHIP Leaders

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

Updated 2025 Leaderboards (through June 30)

Saves Leaders

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

Holds Leaders

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

SOLDS Leaders

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

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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

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

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

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

Statistical Credits:

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:

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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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.

Closer Monkey Rankings | Second Run (1.19.2026)

Although the top free agents have signed, there will be more roster changes across the league. Fantasy managers prefer clarity, but committees or match-up-based bullpens make ranking some relievers challenging. In the second run of the top 40 relievers for saves-only leagues, there will be multiple relievers from some teams, while others may not be represented. Rankings remain imperfect, but here goes.

(Updated on January 23, 2026)

Tier One

Mason Miller (SD)
Edwin Diaz (LAD)
Jhoan Duran (PHI)
Cade Smith (CLE)
Devin Williams (NYM)
David Bednar (NYY)
Aroldis Chapman (BOS)

No changes yet for The Seven Samurai.

Tier Two

Andrés Muñoz (SEA)
Ryan Helsley (BAL)
Josh Hader (HOU)
Jeff Hoffman (TOR)
Pete Fairbanks (MIA)
Raisel Iglesias (ATL)
Daniel Palencia (CHC)
Emilio Pagán (CIN)
Carlos Estévez (KC)

This tier remained mostly stable, with Helsley moving up a spot while the fantasy community awaits health updates regarding Hader. He will be one of the most polarizing players this season. Either he’s a tremendous bargain with a reduced price point, or he will be a bust if his shoulder issues require surgery.

Tier Three

Abner Uribe (MIL)
Trevor Megill (MIL)
Griffin Jax (TB)
Dennis Santana (PIT)
Kenley Jansen (DET)
Seranthony Domínguez (CHW)
Ryan Walker (SF)

Another slight tweak with Uribe moving ahead of Megill. Their roles changed after Megill’s late-season injury. Is this a trend? Will the Brewers move him? Stay tuned; it will create ripples in the closer pool. Jax may be a solid floor option with upside despite the team maintaining a closer-by-committee approach for the upcoming season. He’s one of four relievers who finished 2025 with an ERA over four but a SIERA below three.

Tier Four

Bryan Abreu (HOU)
Robert Suarez (ATL)
Jeremiah Estrada (SD)
Robert Stephenson (LAA)
Garrett Cleavinger (TB)
Edwin Uceta (TB)

If Hader does miss time with an injury, pending free agent Abreu will be securing a potential payday in free agency at the end of the year. Suarez could usurp Iglesias for saves in Atlanta if the proclaimed closer undergoes a rough patch like last season. Estrada is one trade from fantasy relevance. He’s not a sleeper, just waiting for a chance as a closer.

Tier Five

Alexis Díaz (TEX)
Robert Garcia (TEX)
Riley O’Brien (STL)
Clayton Beeter (WSH)
Mark Leiter Jr. (ATH)
Kevin Ginkel (ARI)
Kyle Finnegan (DET)
Will Vest (DET)
Tanner Scott (LAD)
Kirby Yates (LAA)
Garrett Whitlock (BOS)

This tier will shift continually as the news cycle progresses and spring reports on roles and health emerge.

Unranked free agents who could close depending on where they sign:

Michael Kopech
Scott Barlow

Just missed the Top-40 but are intriguing:

Hunter Harvey (CHC)
Matt Brash (SEA)
Matt Svanson (STL)
Jonathan Loáisiga (ARI)
Gregory Soto (PIT)

Teams without a reliever ranked:

Colorado
Minnesota

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Statistical Credits: