It’s been just over a month, but if Fangraphs can clump March and April together in its splits, Closer Monkey can too. Chaos reigned supreme, with fluid bullpens, a multitude of injuries, and performance-based changes shifting roles across the closer ecosystem. Using the last three years as a guide, results using league statistics for relievers at the end of April:
- 2026: 242 saves, 150 blown saves, 392 save opportunities (61.7 percent success rate)
- 2025: 243 saves, 126 blown saves, 369 save opportunities (65.9 percent success rate)
- 2024: 248 saves, 132 blown saves, 380 save opportunities (65.3 percent success rate)
While the save totals are not very different, the success rate and blown saves are noticeable this season. However, not as much as this statistical circumstance:
This year represents a 21.5 percent rise in the number of relievers with at least one save by April’s conclusion. Taking this a step further, here are the trends by relief pitches through the end of April, compared with last year:
Individual Results of Interest
While these data points are not easy to attain, they help identify which relievers are performing at a high level. The following pitchers recorded a K-BB percentage of 20 percent or better, a swinging strike percentage above 15, posted a contact rate allowed of 66 percent or lower, and a strike rate of at least 66 percent:
- Mason Miller (SD): He’s been a force of nature since the WBC tournament began.
- Raisel Iglesias (ATL): Was off to a fast start before a shoulder issue landed him on the injured list. His velocity should be monitored closely when he’s activated.
- Jeff Hoffman (TOR): What happens when your underlying data does not match performance? A demotion in a leverage role. His three blown saves at the end of April were tied for the most among his peers.
- Dylan Lee (ATL): Continues popping up on these metrics, but will not be closing games anytime soon.
- Bryan Baker (TB): One of the early-season league-winner potential additions. He converted seven of nine save opportunities with 13 strikeouts versus three walks across 10.2 innings.
These relievers only missed one of the qualifying factors identified above:
- Erik Sabrowski (CLE): Led all relievers in holds (12) and SOLDS at the end of April.
- Jack Perkins (ATH): Rode his strong peripherals into a potential primary save share with the A’s.
- Rico Garcia (BAL): With Ryan Helsley on the injured list, Garcia could secure some ancillary saves.
- Tanner Scott (LAD): The terrific irony is that if he started like this last year, the fantasy community would be much more interested in him with Edwin Díaz out for at least two months.
Leaderboards
Saves
SOLDS Leaders
Holds Leaders
K-BB Percentage and Swinging Strike Rate
Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community. Stay safe, and be well.
Statistical Credits: