Chicago White Sox

Chicago White Sox Fantasy Baseball Daily Bullpen Updates and Closer Depth Chart

Closer1st in line2nd in line2025 CloserUpdated
CHWJustin AndersonFraser EllardPrelander BerroaEric Adler9/25/24
ILDominic LeoneJordan LeasureJimmy Lambert

* = closer-by-committee

Previous updates:

Chicago White Sox – After enduring the most losses in MLB history, prognosticating a closer for a team in this steep of a rebuild remains difficult. Justin Anderson ended the season as the highest-leveraged reliever. However, since wins may be difficult once again, getting a veteran reliever with “closer” experience would benefit the rebuild. It’s probable the saves leader is not on the current roster. Keeper league players hope Prelander Berroa or Jordan Leasure can take a step forward in 2025. 

September 29, 2024

Chicago White SoxSummoned with the bases loaded and two outs at the bottom of the eighth, Enyel De Los Santos induced an inning-ending groundout. He returned for the ninth and worked around a one-out single with a game-ending double play groundout for his second save. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and produced one whiff.

  • Prelander Berroa allowed a hit, an earned run, and three walks over two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Gus Varland retired the side in the seventh.
  • Fraser Ellard secured his second hold, tossing a scoreless sixth, walking, and striking out one. 

Projected 2025 Hierarchy: Justin Anderson | Fraser Ellard | Prelander Berroa

September 25, 2024

Chicago White SoxAfter tossing a scoreless top of the tenth despite issuing a walk, Jared Shuster collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning.

  • Fraser Ellard retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the ninth.
  • Justin Anderson suffered his fifth blown save, giving up three hits, an earned run, and a walk in the eighth, taking over against the 5-6-7 lineup pocket.
  • Enyel De Los Santos notched his ninth hold, working around a hit and a walk for a scoreless seventh.
  • Michael Soroka logged 2.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out five.

Hierarchy remains: Justin Anderson | Fraser Ellard | Prelander Berroa

September 24, 2024

Chicago White SoxCapping a comeback rally, Justin Anderson recorded his first save of the season and first since May 26, 2019. He worked around a walk and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless top of the ninth, preserving a one-run win over the Angels. He threw 18 pitches (50 Strike%) without a whiff.

  • Prelander Berroa collected his first win despite allowing a solo home run and a walk while striking out two in the eighth.
  • Gus Varland gave up a hit, an earned run, and a walk with one strikeout in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Justin Anderson | Fraser Ellard | Prelander Berroa

September 20, 2024

Chicago White SoxWith the score tied at the bottom of the tenth, Justin Anderson allowed a walk-off RBI double by Fernando Tatis Jr., driving in the “place” runner, resulting in his second loss.

  • Fraser Ellard navigated around two hits for a scoreless ninth, keeping the game tied.
  • Jairo Iriarte walked one and tossed a scoreless eighth.
  • Chad Kuhl gave up a hit in a scoreless seventh.
  • Gus Varland allowed four hits and two earned runs while striking out one in the sixth.
  • Prelander Berroa worked into and out of trouble, giving up a hit and two walks while striking out one in a scoreless fifth.

Updated Hierarchy: Justin Anderson | Fraser Ellard | Prelander Berroa

September 18, 2024

Chicago White SoxTaking over a tied game at the bottom of the 13th, Jairo Iriarte suffered his first loss, allowing Jordyn Adams’ walk-off single, scoring the “place” runner. Enyel De Los Santos logged 1.2 scoreless innings, stranding two runners in the 11th while walking and striking out two. Chad Kuhl was tagged with his third blown save, yielding two hits, two unearned runs, and two walks with one strikeout over his 1.1 innings. Fraser Ellard worked 1.1 scoreless, walking and striking out one. Justin Anderson gave up a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the eighth, resulting in his fourth blown save. Prelander Berroa notched his second hold, allowing two hits and striking out four over two scoreless frames. Gus Varland tossed two scoreless innings, walking one and striking out four.

Updated Hierarchy: Justin Anderson | Prelander Berroa | Fraser Ellard

September 15, 2024

Chicago White SoxDespite giving up Shea Langeliers’ solo shot at the top of the ninth, Fraser Ellard secured his first career save, preserving a one-run win over Oakland. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and induced one whiff while striking out one in his outing. He faced the A’s 6-7-8-9 batters.

  • Prelander Berroa notched his first hold, firing 1.1 clean frames and striking out two, throwing 14 pitches (9 strikes – 64.3 Strike%) with four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in all six appearances this month with 11 strikeouts against two walks over 8.1 innings.
  • Jared Shuster recorded his third hold, working 1.2 scoreless innings, yielding a hit and striking out two.

Updated Hierarchy: *Justin Anderson | *Gus Varland | Prelander Berroa

September 14, 2024

Chicago White SoxCalled upon with two runners on and no outs at the top of the ninth, Gus Varland let one of two score on Zack Gelof’s single against a drawn-in infield but benefited on the second runner being thrown out at home. Varland induced a groundout and an inning-ending pop-out, keeping the game tied. He collected his first win and a blown save on a walk-off home run in the bottom of the frame.

  • Justin Anderson faced three batters, allowing a hit, three runs (two earned), and two walks at the top of the ninth.
  • Enyel De Los Santos logged 2.1 clean innings while striking out one.
  • Chad Kuhl was tagged with his second blown save, giving up two hits, three earned runs, and two walks over two-thirds of the sixth.

Updated Hierarchy: *Justin Anderson | *Gus Varland | Prelander Berroa

August 16, 2024

Chicago White SoxWith a two-run lead, interim manager Grady Sizemore summoned Chad Kuhl, and he held on for his first save, the second of his career. He did allow Jon Singleton’s solo home run but recorded two strikeouts while preserving a one-run win. He threw 17 pitches (10 strikes – 58.8 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%).

  • Matt Foster made his first appearance since 2022 with a clean eighth and a strikeout, securing his first hold.
  • Justin Anderson was awarded his first win. He tossed 1.1 clean frames, stranded two runners in the sixth, and recorded a strikeout.

Updated Hierarchy: Chad Kuhl | Matt Foster | John Brebbia

August 6, 2024

Chicago White SoxAlthough it was not a save chance, John Brebbia closed out a four-run win, helping snap his team’s 21-game losing streak with a clean bottom of the ninth on an efficient eight pitches. He last recorded a save on June 18.

  • Chad Kuhl worked a clean eighth for his first hold.
  • Dominic Leone notched his fourth hold, retiring the side in the seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: John Brebbia | Chad Kuhl | Dominic Leone

July 29, 2024

Chicago White SoxLosing is a disease, or at least it seems so on the south side of Chicago. During its 14th consecutive loss, the team suffered its 27th blown save of the season, this one by John Brebbia. He took over with a runner on and a one-run lead in the eighth but hit a batter, issued a walk, and served up a go-ahead Bobby Witt Jr. grand slam. This resulted in Brebbia’s sixth loss and three earned runs during his one-third of an inning.

  • Steven Wilson was credited with his ninth hold despite giving up three hits, including two home runs and three earned runs during two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Tanner Banks tossed a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out three.

Updated Hierarchy: John Brebbia | Steven Wilson | Tanner Banks

July 22, 2024

Chicago White SoxTaking over in the tenth, Steven Wilson recorded two quick outs and issued two intentional walks (Corey Seager, Josh Smith) ahead of Wyatt Langford’s walk-off RBI single, resulting in his sixth loss.

  • John Brebbia suffered his second blown save and his team’s 25th of the season. He gave up two hits, including Jonah Heim’s game-tying single with two outs, one earned run, and a walk while striking out one in the bottom of the ninth.
  • Michael Kopech stranded a runner in the seventh and logged 1.2 scoreless frames, striking out one. He threw 17 pitches (12 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) and induced two whiffs, extending his modest four-game scoreless streak.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks

July 17, 2024

Chicago White SoxIt may be ironic if the team traded John Brebbia but does not move Michael Kopech, but recent reports have seen the team’s closer not on as many radars based on his rocky performances before his recent three-game scoreless streak. Both may be moved, but time will tell how Chris Getz handles the deadline. If he trades both veteran relievers, the hierarchy will be very light on experience for the last two months.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks

July 10, 2024

Chicago White Sox – (Game 1) Variety is the spice of life, and it may be key to Michael Kopech‘s continued success. He locked down his ninth save with an immaculate ninth inning in Game 1, striking out the side against the Twins’ 6-7-8 batters. He threw nine pitches, all strikes, and generated four whiffs (44.4 SwStr%). He’s recorded consecutive clean appearances and only thrown 11 four-seam fastballs of his 19 pitches (57.9%) in these contests.

  • John Brebbia worked around a hit and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless eighth, securing his 13th hold.
  • Jordan Leasure notched his ninth hold but allowed Trevor Larnach’s solo home run in the seventh.
  • Justin Anderson retired the side in the sixth, striking out one for his third hold.
  • (Game 2) Michael Soroka suffered his tenth loss, allowing two hits, including Ryan Jeffers’ go-ahead RBI single in the top of the seventh. Soroka finished with two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two on his ledger.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks

July 8, 2024

Chicago White SoxTaking over the top of the 11th, Jared Shuster suffered his second loss, allowing two hits, including Brooks Lee’s go-ahead RBI single, and two runs (one earned).

  • Michael Kopech retired the side in the tenth, stranding the “place” runner on 10 pitches (60 Strike%) with one whiff, facing the Twins’ 3-4-5 hitters.
  • John Brebbia worked a scoreless ninth, giving up a hit and striking out one.
  • Justin Anderson tossed 1.1 scoreless frames, navigating around a hit and a walk.
  • Jordan Leasure was tagged with his fourth blown save. He gave up Byron Buxton’s lead-off double, a Lee single, a one-out two-run home run by Matt Wallner, and a two-out, go-ahead solo shot by Carlos Correa. Leasure finished with four hits and four earned runs over two-thirds of the seventh inning.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks

July 7, 2024

Chicago White SoxA brutal loss and blown save for Michael Kopech. It started with a leadoff walk, a leverage mortal sin. No one covered third on a bunt, letting Vidal Brújan reach the base with one out. Josh Bell hit an opposite-field double just over Tommy Pham’s glove with two outs and two strikes. This was followed by an intentional walk, a balk, and Jake Burger’s pinch-hit walk-off three-run home run. This marked Kopech’s eighth loss and fifth blown save.

  • John Brebbia notched his 12th hold, tossing a scoreless eighth, allowing a hit and striking out one.
  • Tanner Banks gave up a hit, two earned runs, and a walk for his sixth hold in the seventh inning.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks

July 6, 2024

Chicago White SoxSuffering his ninth loss while logging three innings, Michael Soroka allowed four hits, including Dane Myers’ go-ahead two-run home run in the bottom of the seventh. He also issued a walk and recorded four strikeouts in his outing.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks

July 5, 2024

Chicago White SoxHanging on for his eighth save, Michael Kopech issued a lead-off walk in the bottom of the ninth, a high-leverage no-no. He did record two outs on a groundout and a strikeout before consecutive singles scored a run. With two runners on and two outs, Kopech induced a game-ending groundout by Josh Bell. He threw 25 pitches (56 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (12 SwStr%) through 1.1 innings. He’s allowed a run in his last two games but has three saves in his last five.

  • Tanner Banks notched his fifth hold, recording two outs and leaving with a runner who reached on an error in the eighth.
  • John Brebbia let his only inherited runner score, giving up two hits and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the seventh for his 11th hold.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks

July 2, 2024

Chicago White SoxIt was a tough-luck loss for Michael Kopech. He took over a tied contest in the bottom of the ninth and allowed a lead-off single. After a fielder’s choice groundout moved the runner to second, Kopech caught a spike, throwing a wild pitch, putting him on third. With one out, he allowed a walk-off sacrifice fly.

  • John Brebbia fired a clean eighth, striking out two against Cleveland’s 3-4-5 lineup pocket.
  • Tanner Banks retired the side in the seventh and recorded one strikeout.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks

June 30, 2024

Chicago White SoxIn an extended outing, Michael Soroka logged four innings, all from the 11th inning forward. He gave up a hit, two unearned runs, and two walks while striking out six. He suffered his eighth loss but probably deserved better.

  • Jared Shuster retired his only batter in the tenth, stranding two runners.
  • Steven Wilson allowed an unearned run and two walks while striking out one in two-thirds of the tenth.
  • Michael Kopech fired a clean ninth and recorded two strikeouts on eight pitches (87.5 Strike%) with two whiffs.
  • John Brebbia retired the side in the eighth, striking out one. 

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks

June 29, 2024

Chicago White SoxTanner Banks was awarded his second win. He logged 1.1 innings, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out one.

  • Steven Wilson stranded a runner and worked a scoreless eighth, striking out two for his eighth hold.
  • Finishing an eight-run win, Justin Anderson fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout. It would have been a save chance until his teammates tacked on six runs in the bottom of the eighth. He’s been scoreless over his last nine appearances.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks

June 28, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Recording a save in consecutive appearances, Michael Kopech worked around a lead-off walk by inducing a double-play groundout and a game-ending groundball, preserving a two-run win. This marked his seventh save of the season. He threw 13 pitches (7 strikes—53.8 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s been scoreless in four of his last five outings.

  • John Brebbia notched his tenth hold, tossing a scoreless eighth, allowing a walk, and striking out two. He’s posted 19 strikeouts against three walks across 12.2 innings in June.
  • Tanner Banks gets credit for his fourth hold despite allowing a solo home run and recording three strikeouts in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks

June 27, 2024

(RP | CHW): Protecting a 1-0 lead, Michael Kopech locked down his sixth save, and first since May, with a clean ninth while striking out one against Atlanta. 

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Preserving a combined shutout, Michael Kopech nailed down his sixth save with a clean ninth and a strikeout against Atlanta. He faced the 4-5-6 lineup pocket and threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) with three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%). This marked his first save since May 15 and will be timely with his name being bandied about in trade talks. John Brebbia held on for his ninth hold, navigating around a one-out single and a walk for a scoreless eighth inning. Jared Shuster was awarded his first win. He logged three scoreless frames, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out two.

Updated Hierarchy: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks

June 25, 2024

(RP | CHW):  Amidst the rubble on this roster, John Brebbia fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts against the Dodgers’ 9-1-2 lineup pocket. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains: *John Brebbia | *Michael Kopech | Tanner Banks

*= closer-by-committee

June 22, 2024

(RP | CHW): Finishing a four-run win, Michael Kopech tossed a scoreless bottom of the ninth, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out two. He threw 23 pitches (14 strikes – 60.9 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s recorded multiple strikeouts in five of his last six appearances, but last recorded a save on May 15. 

Hierarchy remains: *John Brebbia | *Michael Kopech | Tanner Banks

*= closer-by-committee

June 20, 2024

(RP | CHW): Entering with a two-run lead in the seventh, Steven Wilson allowed three hits and three runs (two earned) while recording one out. He suffered his fourth loss while getting credit for his seventh hold.

Hierarchy remains: *John Brebbia | *Michael Kopech | Tanner Banks

*= closer-by-committee

June 18, 2024

(RP | CHW): Brought into the top of the ninth with a runner on and two outs, John Brebbia induced a game-ending groundout by Victor Caratini, preserving the shutout and recording his second save. He’s been scoreless in seven of his eight outings in June, with 14 strikeouts versus one walk across 7.2 innings. Fantasy managers will await if this represents an ancillary save chance or a potential changing of the guard atop the bullpen’s hierarchy.

Updated Hierarchy: *John Brebbia | *Michael Kopech | Tanner Banks

*= closer-by-committee

June 14, 2024

Chicago White SoxPer its “X” account, the White Sox demoted Jordan Leasure to Triple-A, causing an adjusted hierarchy:

Updated Hierarchy: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks

June 13, 2024

(RP | CHW): Protecting a one-run in the bottom of the tenth, Tanner Banks recorded his second save. He retired the side and struck out two against the Mariners. 

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Taking over in the bottom of the tenth with a one-run lead and a left-handed hitting pocket on tap, Tanner Banks recorded his second save with a clean outing in Seattle. He recorded two strikeouts and a game-ending flyout on nine pitches (77.8 Strike%). Michael Kopech could not convert his save chance in the ninth, allowing a game-tying solo home run by Julio Rodríguez, resulting in his fourth blown save. He collected his second win after his teammates scored the “place” runner in the top of the tenth. Kopech has not converted his last three save opportunities and has allowed at least a run in five of his last eight outings, producing a 2.38 WHIP over his last 6.1 innings. John Brebbia notched his eighth hold, firing a clean bottom of the eighth and striking out two. He’s been scoreless in six of seven games in June, posting a 12:1 K:BB through 6.1 innings.

Although Pedro Grifol remains steadfast supporting Kopech, Brebbia warrants a save chance soon. For now:

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

June 12, 2024

(RP | CHW): Making his first appearance off the injured list, Steven Wilson suffered his third loss. During his one-third of the tenth inning, he issued an intentional walk (Dominic Canzone) and allowed a walk-off RBI single by Mitch Haniger.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

June 11, 2024

(RP | CHW): With a one-run lead, John Brebbia was summoned in the bottom of the seventh with a runner on base. He allowed a Julio Rodríguez single and a go-ahead two-RBI double by Cal Raleigh resulting in his fourth loss and first blown save. 

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – It’s been tough sledding for this leverage ladder, which continued last night. John Brebbia suffered his fourth loss and first blown save in Seattle. He took over in the bottom of the seventh with a runner on and allowed a single by Julio Rodríguez followed by a go-ahead two-RBI double by Cal Raleigh before retiring Mitch Haniger. Tim Hill retired the side in the bottom of the eighth during the eventual one-run loss. Justin Anderson recorded his second hold, issuing a walk and striking out two in two-thirds of the sixth. Tanner Banks was credited with his third hold, allowing an earned run on a walk and struck out one over a combined inning of relief.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

June 10, 2024

(RP | CHW): After stranding the bases loaded in the eighth with an inning-ending groundout. Jordan Leasure allowed two walks, a single, and a walk-off grand slam in the bottom of the ninth, resulting in his second loss. 

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Cutting his teeth during high-leverage events as a rookie, Jordan Leasure suffered his second loss. He retired his only batter faced in the eighth, keeping the game tied. However, in the ninth, he issued two one-out walks, allowed a single by Julio Rodriguez to load the bases, and served up a walk-off grand slam by Cal Raleigh. Michael Kopech took over in the eighth and was tagged with his third blown save. He gave up four hits, three earned runs, a hit batter, and a walk while striking out two during his two-thirds innings. He threw 28 pitches (16 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (17.9 SwStr%). He’s allowed at least a run in four of his last six outings.

It’s been a rough stretch for this leverage ladder. One would suggest a pending change in the hierarchy, but it’s slim pickings. Plan on John Brebbia receiving a save chance in the near future.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

June 9, 2024

(RP | CHW): Summoned for the top of the tenth, Mike Soroka suffered his seventh loss, giving up two hits and two unearned runs while striking out two. 

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Tasked with the tenth inning, Mike Soroka suffered his seventh loss. He allowed two hits and two unearned runs and recorded two strikeouts. Tanner Banks received the save chance in the ninth but gave up a lead-off double, a stolen base, and a sacrifice fly, resulting in his third blown save. John Brebbia tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and striking out one for his seventh hold. Justin Anderson let one of two inherited runners score while allowing a hit and striking out two over 1.2 scoreless frames during his first blown save.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

June 8, 2024

(RP | CWS): Taking over in the fifth, Tanner Banks stranded two runners and logged 1.2 scoreless innings, resulting in his first win. 

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Closing a five-run win, Michael Kopech navigated around a hit, a hit batter, and a walk while striking out two for a scoreless top of the ninth. He threw 33 pitches (21 strikes – 63.6 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (12.1 SwStr%). Jordan Leasure fired a clean eighth, striking out two on 16 pitches (56.3 Strike%) without a whiff. John Brebbia tossed a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and striking out two. Tanner Banks collected his first win, stranding two runners in the fifth and logging 1.2 scoreless frames, yielding a hit while striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

June 7, 2024

(RP | CWS): Snapping his team’s 14-game losing streak, newly promoted Jonathan Cannon logged three scoreless innings, scattering three hits and recording four strikeouts. He threw 60 pitches (41 strikes – 68.3 Strike%) and generated 10 whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

June 5, 2024

(RP | CWS): With the game tied in the bottom of the ninth, Michael Kopech suffered his sixth loss, allowing Mike Tauchman to score a walk-off home run.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

June 4, 2024

(RP | CWS): Taking over with a one-run lead in the bottom of the eighth, Jordan Leasure allowed two hits, including a go-ahead two-RBI double by Ian Happ and a walk while striking out one, resulting in his first loss and third blown save.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

June 1, 2024

(RP | CWS): After working a scoreless ninth, keeping the game tied, Michael Kopech returned for the tenth. However, things did not go smoothly. He issued an intentional walk then gave up a walk-off, RBI single, resulting in his fifth loss. 

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Although he kept the game tied in the ninth, things turned in the bottom of the tenth. Michael Kopech issued Christian Yelich an intentional walk, uncorked a wild pitch moving up both runners, and allowed a walk-off RBI single by Willy Adames, resulting in his fifth loss. He only allowed one hit, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out one over his combined inning. He threw 19 pitches (14 strikes – 73.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. Jordan Leasure suffered his second blown save, letting both inherited runners score in the seventh on a two-RBI single by Adames. Leasure finished with 1.1 scoreless innings, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out two. Justin Anderson was credited with his first hold despite allowing two earned runs and two walks while striking out one over two-thirds of an inning.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

May 29, 2024

(RP | CWS): Forced into action with a one-run lead in the eighth, Michael Kopech allowed three hits, including two home runs, putting three earned runs on his ledger over two-thirds of an inning. He suffered his fourth loss and second blown save as a result. 

Analysis

Chicago White SoxNormally stout in relief, Jordan Leasure stranded two runners in the top of the seventh. However, after he returned in the eighth, he gave up a walk and a two-run home run by Ryan O’Hearn. Leasure was credited with his eighth hold, tossing a combined inning and giving up a hit, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out two. Taking over with a one-run lead, Michael Kopech suffered his fourth loss and second blown save, allowing three hits, including two home runs, resulting in three earned runs and ceding the lead. This snapped his modest seven-game scoreless streak in May. Tim Hill navigated around a hit and a walk for a scoreless ninth during an eventual loss.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

(RP | CWS): Taking over a tied game in the top of the eighth, John Brebbia allowed a double, and a one-out walk, resulting in two earned runs and his third loss. 

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

May 21, 2024

(RP | CWS): Preserving a combined shutout, Michael Kopech fired a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out the side against Toronto’s top-of-the-order. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and did not record a whiff. Although saves can be sparse, he owns a six-game scoreless streak with eight strikeouts versus five walks.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

May 15, 2024

(RP | CWS): Hanging on for his fifth save, Michael Kopech navigated around two walks and recorded two strikeouts during a scoreless ninth.

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Despite issuing two walks, Michael Kopech secured his fifth save, tossing a scoreless top of the ninth and recording two strikeouts. He threw 33 pitches (20 strikes – 60.6 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (12.1 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless over his last five appearances and converted all three save chances with a 5:5 K:BB. Jordan Leasure continued his impressive rookie campaign, recording his seventh hold with a clean eighth, striking out one. Jared Shuster logged two clean frames and struck out one for his second hold.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

May 14, 2024

(RP | CWS): During Game 1, John Brebbia suffered his second loss. He gave up three hits and three earned runs over his 1.1-inning outing.

Anaylsis

Chicago White Sox – Taking over in the seventh, John Brebbia suffered his second loss, allowing three hits, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out two over 1.1 innings in Game 1. Steven Wilson let one of two inherited runners score while tossing 1.2 scoreless frames, walking one and striking out two.

Preserving a split in Game 2, Michael Kopech worked around two walks and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless ninth in a non-save outing. He threw 23 pitches (11 strikes – 47.8 Strike%) without a whiff. Jordan Leasure notched his sixth hold, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

May 11, 2024

(RP | CWS): Facing the heart of the Guardians’ lineup, Pedro Grifol turned to John Brebbia, and the veteran reliever responded by recording his first save of the season after retiring the side in order, and striking out one, closing out a 3-1 win.

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Securing his first save of the season, and first since 2018, John Brebbia fired a clean top of the ninth against the Guardians’ 3-4-5 hitters. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and induced one whiff while recording a strikeout in his outing. Jared Shuster worked two scoreless frames, walking one and striking out two for his first hold. Tim Hill collected his first win, tossing 1.1 clean innings and striking out one. He also stranded a runner in the top of the fifth.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

May 10, 2024

(RP | CWS): Not only did Jordan Leasure record his second save, he stranded the bases-loaded in the eighth and retired all four batters while preserving a three-run win.

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Pressed into action in the eighth, Jordan Leasure inherited a bases-loaded situation, stranding all three runners by inducing an inning-ending flyout. He returned for the ninth and recorded his second save preserving a three-run win. He only needed 16 pitches (75 Strike%) with one whiff while retiring all four batters faced in this outing. He owns a 1.10 WHIP with 11 strikeouts over 16.1 innings during his rookie campaign.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

May 9, 2024

(RP | CWS): Appearing for a second straight night, Michael Kopech recorded his fourth save, tossing 1.1 scoreless innings, giving up a hit and striking out one, closing out a one-run win over Cleveland.

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Securing his fourth save, Michael Kopech logged 1.1 scoreless innings, allowing a one-out single in the ninth by Bo Naylor and striking out one. He threw 14 pitches, all strikes, generating five whiffs (35.7 SwStr%). This marked his third save requiring more than three outs, and he’s been scoreless in five of his last six outings. John Brebbia was credited with his fourth hold despite giving up back-to-back solo home runs (José Ramírez; Josh Naylor). Jordan Leasure notched his fifth hold, stranding the bases-loaded while retiring three batters faced, two via strikeout.

Updated Hierarchy: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

May 8, 2024

(RP | CWS): Receiving his first save chance in just under a month, Michael Kopech gave up an infield hit but closed out the 4-1 win with a game-ending double play groundout.

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Even though he allowed an infield single, Michael Kopech secured his third save, producing a game-ending double play ground out, closing out a 4-1 win in Tampa Bay. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and induced one whiff. This represents his first save since April 9, and he’s been scoreless in four of his last five contests. John Brebbia stranded two runners in the seventh while logging 1.2 clean frames and striking out three for his third hold. Steven Wilson was credited with his fifth hold despite issuing two walks over a scoreless one-third of the seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: *Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Steven Wilson

*= closer-by-committee

May 4, 2024

(RP | CWS): After tossing a scoreless bottom of the ninth, allowing a hit, and hitting a batter, Michael Kopech collected his first win courtesy of a rally in the top of the tenth.

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Following an extended rain delay, Tanner Banks recorded his first save of the season, stranding the bases-loaded with a game-ending strikeout of Iván Herrera, preserving a one-run win over St. Louis. John Brebbia gets credited with his second hold, allowing a hit and striking out two over two-thirds of the tenth. He was pitching when the game entered the delay. Michael Kopech collected his first win, working a scoreless bottom of the ninth, giving up a hit and a hit batter while striking out one. He threw 21 pitches (12 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (19 SwStr%). Jordan Leasure retired all three batters faced, stranding a runner in the eighth. Dominic Leone issued a walk and left the game with a tight back. Steven Wilson recorded two strikeouts versus his only two batters faced.

Hierarchy remains (for now): *Michael Kopech | *Steven Wilson | John Brebbia

*= closer-by-committee

May 1, 2024

(RP | CWS): Suffering his first loss, and second blown save, Dominic Leone gave up two hits and two earned runs over two-thirds innings.

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Another rough day for the leverage ladder. Steven Wilson was credited with his fourth hold despite allowing two unearned runs and issuing three walks over two-thirds of the sixth. Dominic Leone suffered his first loss, and second blown save, giving up two earned runs and two walks while striking out two over two-thirds combined innings. Tim Hill let both inherited runners score, yielding two hits during two-thirds scoreless. Tanner Banks gave up two earned runs on three hits and recorded a strikeout over 1.1 innings. John Brebbia also permitted both inherited runners to score on three hits putting two earned runs on his ledger and striking out one in two-thirds of the ninth.

Hierarchy remains (for now): *Michael Kopech | *Steven Wilson | John Brebbia

*= closer-by-committee

April 30, 2024

(RP | CWS): Entering with the score tied in the top of the ninth, Michael Kopech suffered his third loss, giving up a walk, a hit, and an earned run while striking out one.

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Taking over a tied game in the top of the ninth, Michael Kopech issued Byron Buxton a lead-off walk, a high-leverage no-no. After recording a strikeout, Kopech allowed a one-out single by Manuel Margot and a go-ahead sacrifice fly, scoring the game-winning run, handing him his third loss of the season. He gave up a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one on 22 pitches (15 strikes – 68.2 Strike%) with three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%). Prelander Berroa hit a batter and recorded an out during his season debut, stranding two runners. Jordan Leasure was tagged with his first blown save, allowing two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one over two-thirds of the eighth. Steven Wilson fired a clean seventh, striking out one for his third hold.

Hierarchy remains (for now): *Michael Kopech | *Steven Wilson | John Brebbia

*= closer-by-committee

April 29, 2024

(RP | CWS): During a tied game, John Brebbia took over in the top of the ninth, but gave up consecutive hits, resulting in the go-ahead run, handing him his first loss of the season.

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Taking over a tied game in the top of the ninth, John Brebbia suffered his first loss, allowing a lead-off double by Byron Buxton and a go-ahead RBI single by Max Kepler. He settled in after, retiring three in a row, including two by strikeout, but the damage had been done. Michael Kopech fired a clean eighth, striking out one on 16 pitches (75 Strike%) with two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). Tim Hill stranded a runner and retired his only batter faced in the seventh. Brad Keller logged 1.2 scoreless frames, walking two and striking out one.

For those interested, Prelander Berroa was warming during the ninth inning. He and Jordan Leasure represent the future in this hierarchy.

Hierarchy remains (for now): *Michael Kopech | *Steven Wilson | John Brebbia

*= closer-by-committee

April 28, 2024

(RP | CWS): Taking over with a runner on and one out, Jordan Leasure recorded his first major league save by retiring both batters faced against the Rays.

Analysis

Chicago White Sox – Not only did Jordan Leasure strand an inherited runner on second base while retiring both batters faced, but he secured his first major league save, closing out a 4-2 win, and a sweep over the Rays. He threw six pitches (50 Strike%) and induced one whiff (16.7 SwStr%) in his outing. It’s been like playing whack-a-mole with his leverage ladder, but the rookie remains a part of the future in save situations.

Adjusted hierarchy: *Michael Kopech | *Steven Wilson | John Brebbia

*= closer-by-committee

April 27, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Benefiting from a walk-off rally in the bottom of the tenth, Deivi García collected his first win. He let the “place” runner score in the top of the inning and issued two walks (one intentional) while striking out two. Michael Kopech tossed a scoreless ninth, walking one and striking out one, keeping the game tied. He threw 14 pitches (8 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%). Steven Wilson navigated around a hit and a walk for a scoreless eighth. John Brebbia retired the side in the seventh. Dominic Leone suffered his first blown save, giving up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one.

Adjusted hierarchy: *Michael Kopech | *Steven Wilson | John Brebbia

*= closer-by-committee

April 26, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Protecting a two-run lead, Dominic Leone notched his second hold, firing a clean sixth and striking out one. Deivi García gave up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one during two-thirds of the seventh. Jordan Leasure let one of two inherited runners score, walking in a run, and issuing two walks in the seventh, but received credit for his fourth hold after recording the last out of the inning. Michael Kopech allowed two hits, an earned run, a walk, and hit a batter while striking out two in an eventful non-save outing in the eighth. He threw 26 pitches (15 strikes – 57.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). However, his usage patterns and high pitch counts make him tough to trust from a fantasy perspective. Tanner Banks yielded three hits and an earned run while striking out one in the ninth, finishing a 9-4 win over the Rays. 

Adjusted hierarchy: *Steven Wilson | *Michael Kopech | Dominic Leone

*= closer-by-committee

April 25, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Suffering his second loss, Tanner Banks took over in the sixth, giving up three hits and an earned run without recording an out. Jordan Leasure stranded both inherited runners, preventing a bigger inning, but the damage had been done. John Brebbia allowed a solo home run (Edouard Julien) and recorded a strikeout in the seventh. Steven Wilson gave up two home runs in the eighth and struck out one.

Hierarchy remains (for now): Michael Kopech | Steven Wilson | Jordan Leasure

April 23, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Handed a one-run lead in the bottom of the ninth, Steven Wilson suffered his second loss, and first blown save, allowing a lead-off home run (Byron Buxton), a one-out walk to Carlos Santana, an RBI double by Ryan Jeffers, and a walk-off, RBI single by Alex Kiriloff. Wilson threw 25 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced three whiffs. Michael Kopech took over in the eighth matched-up with the 9-1-2 lineup pocket. He gave up a lead-off single by Christian Vazquez, then recorded two outs before serving up a two-run home run by Trevor Larnach, before striking out Max Kepler, ending the inning with a one-run lead for his first hold. He threw 19 pitches (13 strikes – 68.4 Strike%) and produced one whiff. Jordan Leasure was credited with his third hold, yielding two hits and an earned run in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains (for now): Michael Kopech | Steven Wilson | Jordan Leasure

April 21, 2024

Chicago White Sox – It’s tough closing out games with three wins on the season, but Michael Kopech fired a clean bottom of the eighth, striking out two versus the Phillies 3-4-5 batters. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%). He’s posted a 1.15 WHIP with 17 strikeouts versus six walks through 11.1 innings. Jordan Leasure gave up two hits and an earned run, snapping his scoreless streak. Deivi García logged 1.1 innings, allowing two hits, including a solo home run (Kyle Schwarber), and a walk. Tanner Banks logged 1.2 scoreless innings, yielding a hit and striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | Steven Wilson | Jordan Leasure

April 17, 2024

Chicago White Sox – (Game 1): Appearing in the ninth, Dominic Leone served up a solo home run (Hunter Renfroe) and issued a walk. Michael Kopech suffered his second loss and first blown save, giving up two hits, including a go-ahead two-run home run by Salvador Perez, and recording a strikeout in the top of the eighth. Steven Wilson fired a clean seventh for his second hold. Jordan Leasure notched his second hold, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless sixth. (Game 2) Recording his first save of the season, and second of his career, Deivi García worked two scoreless innings, navigating around a hit and a walk. Tanner Banks was credited with his first hold, allowing a hit, an unearned run, and a walk during his 1.1 innings.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | Steven Wilson | Jordan Leasure

April 15, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Getting in work during a shutout loss, Michael Kopech tossed a scoreless top of the ninth, giving up an infield single and striking out two. He threw 20 pitches (65 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He owns a 1.18 WHIP with 14 strikeouts versus six walks through 9.1 innings. Steven Wilson turned in a scoreless eighth despite issuing two walks. Jordan Leasure fired a clean seventh, striking out one. Dominic Leone allowed a hit during a scoreless sixth. 

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | Steven Wilson | Jordan Leasure

April 13, 2024

Chicago White Sox – During a non-save appearance, Michael Kopech faced the 5-6-7 lineup pocket, issuing a one-out walk, but erased him on a pick-off for a caught stealing, then induced a game-ending ground-out. He threw 12 pitches (50 Strike%) while inducing one whiff. He owns a 1.20 WHIP with 12 strikeouts against six walks over 8.1 innings. Jordan Leasure fired a clean eighth, striking out two on 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (25 SwStr%). Dominic Leone tossed a clean seventh, striking out one. Deivi García stranded a runner and logged 1.1 clean frames, striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | Steven Wilson | Jordan Leasure

April 10, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Suffering his first loss and first blown save, Bryan Shaw gave up three hits, two runs (one earned), and an intentional walk in the bottom of the tenth against his former team, Cleveland. Steven Wilson fired a clean ninth on an efficient seven pitches (85.7 Strike%) and has been scoreless through four outings this month. Deivi García retired the side in order in the eighth. Dominic Leone allowed a hit and a walk while striking out one during a scoreless seventh. Tanner Banks inherited the bases loaded with no outs and only let one score during a scoreless sixth while striking out one, but was tagged with his first blown save.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | Steven Wilson | Jordan Leasure

April 9, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Nailing down his second save, Michael Kopech fired two clean frames, recording four strikeouts, preserving a two-run win over Cleveland. He threw 24 pitches (75 Strike%) and generated seven whiffs (29.2 SwStr%). He owns a 1.23 WHIP with 12 strikeouts versus five walks through 7.1 innings. Steven Wilson collected his first win, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out three in a scoreless seventh. Jordan Leasure logged two scoreless innings, issuing a walk and striking out one.

Updated hierarchy: Michael Kopech | Steven Wilson | Jordan Leasure

April 5, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Still within his high-leverage learning curve, Michael Kopech suffered his first loss, issuing Salvador Perez a one-out walk, who was replaced by pinch runner Dairon Blanco, who promptly stole second base, and scored on an RBI single by MJ Melendez. Kopech bounced back recording consecutive strikeouts, but he must be more aggressive, and efficient in the strike zone. He threw 31 pitches (17 strikes – 54.8 Strike%) while producing six whiffs (19.4 SwStr%). Steven Wilson retired all four batters faced, three via strikeout on 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) with three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%). John Brebbia recorded two outs but left after re-injuring his calf.

Updated Hierarchy: *Michael Kopech | *Steven Wilson | Jordan Leasure

* = closer-by-committee

April 2, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Taking over with two runners on and one out in the eighth, Michael Kopech issued a walk and induced an inning-inning double-play grounder. In the ninth, he served up a solo home run (Marcell Ozuna), issued a second walk, and gave up a single, but recorded his first major league save, closing out a one-run win. He threw 39 pitches (23 strikes – 59 Strike%) with two whiffs. Seven of his pitches reached triple digits (17.9%). John Brebbia retired one batter and issued two walks over one-third of the eighth, receiving credit for his first hold. 

March 31, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Taking over with two runners on, Tim Hill let one score on a go-ahead RBI single by Andy Ibañez, and issued a walk during his one-third of an inning. Steven Wilson absorbed his first loss, allowing a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the ninth. Michael Kopech shoved, firing 1.2 clean frames and striking out three on 17 pitches (16 strikes – 94.1 Strike%) while inducing four whiffs (23.5 Strike%). John Brebbia gave up a hit and struck out one in two-thirds combined innings. Tanner Banks worked a scoreless combined inning, walking one and striking out one.

March 30, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Taking over a tied game in the top of the 10th, Deivi García gave up a go-ahead RBI single by Carson Kelly, scoring the “place” runner, resulting in his first loss. He did record two strikeouts in this outing. John Brebbia retired the 3-4-5 lineup pocket on five pitches in the ninth. Steven Wilson worked a clean eighth versus the 9-1-2 hitters. Tim Hill suffered his first blown save, letting his only inherited runner score on a Kelly single, and recorded two outs. Dominic Leone got credit for his first hold despite serving up a solo home run among his two hits and permitting two earned runs over one-third of the seventh. Jordan Leasure made his MLB debut, tossing a scoreless sixth. He worked around a hit and a walk while striking out one.

March 25, 2024

Chicago White SoxRemaining guarded in his comments about having a closer, Pedro Grifol says the team will enter the year without one being named in this tweet shared by Scott Merkin of MLB.com. In Grifol’s words, “We’re attacking leverage. Somebody takes it on, somebody takes it on.”. During the team’s scrimmage with its Triple-A affiliate, Michael Kopech pitched for Charlotte, retiring his teammates in order, including a strikeout of Gavin Sheets. Unofficially, he finishes the spring with four scoreless appearances as a reliever with a 0.25 WHIP and 4:1 K:BB. Hopefully he get a chance to take the closer role on soon.

March 24, 2024

Chicago White Sox – A tough day for the leverage ladder. Deivi García allowed two hits, including a solo home run in the bottom of the eighth. John Brebbia suffered his first loss, issuing two walks and serving up a three-run home run during the seventh. Jordan Leasure encountered adversity. He gave up four hits and two earned runs while striking out two in the sixth. This snapped his nine-game scoreless streak. He owns a 1.18 WHIP with 11 strikeouts against four walks over 9.1 innings this spring.

March 23, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Although Pedro Grifol remains vague about labeling his reliever roles, Michael Kopech fired a clean fifth, striking out two while hitting 101 m.p.h. on the radar. He’s made three appearances as a reliever, all scoreless, with three strikeouts against one walk and a 0.33 WHIP. Bryan Shaw allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless sixth. Steven Wilson turned in a clean seventh, striking out two. Following Kopech’s outing, here are the updated statistics for the anticipated hierarchy: 

  • Michael Kopech: 3 appearances as an RP: 3 innings, 3:1 K:BB, 0.33 WHIP, 66.7 Strike%
  • John Brebbia: 1 game, 1 inning, one strikeout, 1.00 WHIP, 25 K-BB%
  • Jordan Leasure: 9 games, 8.1 innings, 9:4 K:BB, 16.7 K-BB%, 0.84 WHIP

March 23, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Forecasting the save chances once the season begins remains difficult based on any comments provided by manager, Pedro Grifol. With this in mind, here are the limited spring results by two veterans vying for the top spot in the bullpen hierarchy along with the strong spring results by rookie, Jordan Leasure.

  • Michael Kopech: 2 appearances as an RP: 2 innings, 1:1 K:BB, 0.50 WHIP
  • John Brebbia: 1 game, 1 inning, one strikeout, 1.00 WHIP, 25 K-BB%
  • Jordan Leasure: 9 games, 8.1 innings, 9:4 K:BB, 16.7 K-BB%, 0.84 WHIP

March 21, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Manager Pedro Grifol remains cryptic when asked about roles in his bullpen, but relievers firmly in the mix for Opening Day worked during a tie versus the Royals. Jordan Leasure navigated around a hit and a walk, while striking out two for a scoreless fifth. He owns a 0.84 WHIP with nine strikeouts versus four walks over 6.1 innings. John Brebbia worked around a double for a scoreless sixth, recording one strikeout during his spring debut. Tim Hill tossed a scoreless seventh, walking one. Deivi García logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out four.

March 20, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Michael Kopech made his second relief appearance, tossing a scoreless sixth, walking one, and striking out one. He was hitting 96-to-97 m.p.h. in this outing, courtesy of this tweet by Daryl Van Schouwen.

March 18, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Although it was in a minor league game, John Brebbia made his spring debut on a mound. In this tweet by Daryl Van Schouwen, the veteran reliever pitched an inning and faced two more batters before being removed. He also backed up a base and fielded a ball during his outing, reporting no ill effects. His next appearance may be in a Cactus League contest.

March 16, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Making his first spring relief appearance, Michael Kopech retired the side in order, and in the recap by Scott Merkin of MLB.com, the reliever hit 100 m.p.h. on the stadium radar. Although he’s not focused on being the “closer“, he would welcome it but remains focused on doing the “best job he can”. Stay tuned.

March 15, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Good news about a talented young reliever. Prelander Berroa threw a side session on Friday, and will be on pace to “crank it up” per manager, Pedro Grifol, reported on Twitter by Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times.

March 14, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Why remain static after a trade? General Manager Chris Getz said Michael Kopech will be in the bullpen on Opening Day per this tweet by James Fegan. This once again reshuffles the hierarchy since he has pitched as a reliever previously in 2021. He recorded 13 holds and suffered one blown save in 40 relief appearances with an 80:21 K:BB (25.2 K-BB percentage), and a 1.23 WHIP. Using his results from Baseball Reference, he recorded 15 high-leverage outings and recorded more than three outs 16 times. Now we await for his role. High-leverage or multi-inning bridge?

Speaking of Kopech, this quote surfaced later this afternoon from pitching coach Ethan Katz, suggesting the pitcher may benefit from the aggressive approach it takes being the “closer”. There’s many moving pieces in this leverage ladder, but where there’s smoke, sometimes there’s fire. Stay tuned.

March 13, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Potentially shaking up the leverage ladder, Steven Wilson will be one of the four players acquired in the Dylan Cease trade, and will enter the bullpen hierarchy based on his experience. Last year, he recorded 22 holds with a 1.17 WHIP, and 13.7 K-BB percentage over 52 games, spanning 53 innings.

March 12, 2024

Chicago White Sox – For a bullpen already stretched thin on talent, updates on Wednesday did not go well for the leverage ladder. Jimmy Lambert has been experiencing lingering shoulder issues and will see Dr. ElAttrache in Los Angeles for a second opinion. Later on, Daryl Van Schouwen reported Prelander Berroa will be sidelined with an arm/shoulder area issue, with an update pending clarification. On MLB.com’s injuries and roster moves page, manager Pedro Grifol said Berroa pitched with reduced velocity in his last outing against Colorado and will see the team doctors. Less than optimal, unless one prefers taking a “Leasure“-ly approach for targeting saves in this bullpen.

March 8, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Although no reports surfaced following John Brebbia successfully completing his bullpen session on Thursday, this video surfaced, showing no signs of hesitation because of his calf issue.

March 6, 2024

Chicago White Sox – He will be eased into high-leverage events in the regular season, but Jordan Leasure could earn save chances as the season progresses. In this post by Daryl Van Schouwen, he provides some intriguing quotes about Leasure’s future with the White Sox. Those in keeper leagues should track his results the rest of spring closely. Right now, he owns a 1.00 WHIP with a 5:2 K:BB (27.3 K-BB%) through three scoreless innings.

More news for the leverage ladder surfaced on MLB.com by Scott Merkin. John Brebbia will throw a side session without his walking boot on Thursday (March 7). It did not provide a timeline for his availability, but Opening Day could be possible, but time will tell how this plays out.

March 5, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Although he’s progressing well, Corey Knebel will not be ready for Opening Day per this post on MLB.com by Scott Merkin. Also, this update was shared on “X” by Daryl Van Schouwen, noting John Brebbia will throw a bullpen session on Thursday (March 7).

March 4, 2024

Chicago White Sox –  Not only has Jordan Leasure caught the attention of the Closer Monkey staff, he’s also garnering praise from his manager, Pedro Grifol. In this tweet by Scott Merkin, MLB.com’s White Sox beat writer, it’s mentioned Leasure has plus-plus stuff. Not sure how Eno Sarris rates him, but the rookie reliever has a chance of making the roster in a veteran-laden leverage ladder.

February 26, 2024

Chicago White Sox – In a wide-open bullpen, rookie Jordan Leasure may carve out a high-leverage role before the team breaks camp. Scott Merkin highlighted him for MLB.com with quotes from teammates, including “closer of the future” hints.

February 22, 2024

Chicago White Sox – Per this report by Jack Magruder of MLB.com, reliever roles will be “fluid” this spring. Also, Scott Merkin shared on “X”, John Brebbia suffered a minor calf injury, but he could be ready for Opening Day.

September 24, 2023
Chicago White Sox – Aaron Bummer took the 8th inning yesterday which left the 9th for Bryan Shaw. Shaw converted for his 3rd save on the year. We will swap these guys at the top of the hierarchy but with Santos out there is no clear cut number 1 in Chicago.

Updated hierarchy: *Shaw | Bummer | Crochet.
* = closer-by-committee

September 21, 2023
Chicago White Sox – Aaron Bummer and Bryan Shaw are in line for saves now that Gregory Santos is out for the year, but they’ll be joined in the bullpen by old friend Garrett Crochet. Although Crochet might be a starter next season, he’s likely to stay in relief for the next few weeks.

Updated hierarchy: *Bummer | Shaw | Crochet.
* = closer-by-committee

September 20, 2023
Chicago White Sox – Gregory Santos’s season is over, as the righty was placed on the IL with elbow inflammation. Look for Bryan Shaw and Aaron Bummer to lead this committee through the end of the year.

Updated hierarchy: *Bummer | Shaw | Ramsey.
* = closer-by-committee

September 17, 2023
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox brought in Gregory Santos in the 8th inning with a 6 run lead but he made a mess of things giving up 4 runs (3 earned).  Lane Ramsey started the 9th inning with the White Sox up two but got pulled after giving up a pair of singles.  Tanner Banks came on and walked a pair of batters, which forced in a run, but was able to preserve a 7-6 win for his first save of the season.  The White Sox have now used 3 different relievers to record their 3 saves in September so it’s tough to trust anybody at this point.

Hierarchy remains: *Santos | Bummer | Shaw.
* = closer-by-committee

September 7, 2023
Chicago White Sox — In Liam Hendriks’s absence, the White Sox are in committee mode with a handful of middling options. On Tuesday, they used veteran Bryan Shaw for the save in the ninth inning after Aaron Bummer and Gregory Santos split the eighth. Any of these three guys could be the pick on a particular night.

Hierarchy remains: *Santos | Bummer | Shaw.
* = closer-by-committee

August 17, 2023
Chicago White Sox – Gregory Santos entered the 9th inning with a 2-run lead and ended up taking the loss without recording a single out (double, walk, home run). With a dearth of options for this bullpen, Santos is still committee leader for the time being, but maybe the White Sox shake things up next time.

Hierarchy remains: *Santos | Bummer | Shaw.
* = closer-by-committee

August 8, 2023
Chicago White Sox – Veteran Bryan Shaw picked up his first save in nearly a year, posting two scoreless innings against the Yankees. Gregory Santos, on the bereavement list, should return shortly.

Hierarchy remains: *Santos | Bummer | Shaw.
* = closer-by-committee

August 7, 2023
Chicago White Sox – With Gregory Santos on the bereavement list, righty Jimmy Lambert got the 9th inning and converted for his first career save. Score one for the Vulture Save Watch…?

Hierarchy remains: *Santos | Bummer | Shaw.
* = closer-by-committee

August 6, 2023
Chicago White Sox — Gregory Santos has been placed on the bereavement list.  Aaron Bummer and Bryan Shaw combined to finish off the White Sox victory and should continue to fill in for Santos while he is out.

Hierarchy remains: *Santos | Bummer | Shaw.
* = closer-by-committee

August 3, 2023
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox announced that Liam Hendriks underwent Tommy John surgery on Wednesday, which will require 12 to 14 months of healing and rehabilitation before he can pitch again. Chicago is likely to decline Hendriks’s $15 million team option for 2024, leaving his MLB future uncertain, but this is not a man to bet against.

Hierarchy remains: *Santos | Bummer | Shaw.
* = closer-by-committee

August 2, 2023
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox dealt one final reliever on Tuesday, sending Keynan Middleton to the Yankees. It’s a pretty underwhelming group behind Gregory Santos and Aaron Bummer. Bryan Shaw  joins the hierarchy by default.

Updated hierarchy: *Santos | Bummer | Shaw.
* = closer-by-committee

July 29, 2023
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox continued trading away relievers on Friday, sending closer Kendall Graveman to the Astros and setup man Joe Kelly to the Dodgers. We told you earlier this month that Gregory Santos is a guy to watch, and Santos was indeed the man to pick up the save in Chicago’s game on Friday night. We’ll call this a committee for now, but Santos has the inside track on the full time job.

Updated hierarchy: *Santos | Middleton | Bummer.
* = closer-by-committee

July 27, 2023
Chicago White Sox – Reynaldo Lopez was traded to the Angels on Wednesday. We’ll see how they deploy him out west, while we welcome Keynan Middleton to the White Sox hierarchy.

Updated hierarchy: Graveman | Santos | Middleton

July 16, 2023
Chicago White Sox – Kendall Graveman allowed a run but was able to lock down his 8th save of the season yesterday.  Graveman has recorded the last two saves for the White Sox and his 8 saves lead the team.  The next closest is Reynaldo Lopez with 4, but he hasn’t recorded a save since the beginning of May so we will kick the asterisk for Graveman.  As we mentioned in our Trade Deadline Buy/Sell, Graveman is a trade candidate and Gregory Santos, and his 100 MPH sinker, could be a guy to watch.

Updated hierarchy: Graveman | Santos | Lopez.

July 7, 2023
Chicago White Sox – Joe Kelly landed on the IL with right elbow inflammation, which means Reynaldo Lopez has returned to the hierarchy.

Updated hierarchy: Graveman | Santos | Lopez.

July 3, 2023
Chicago White Sox – With much of the Chicago hierarchy needing the night off, the White Sox went to Gregory Santos in the 9th inning. Santos recorded his first save, which is enough to push him past the inconsistent Reynaldo Lopez on this hierarchy.

Updated hierarchy: Graveman | Kelly | Santos.

June 26, 2023
Chicago White Sox – With the White Sox holding a 3 run lead and the hierarchy needing a rest, they turned to Keynan Middleton for the 9th inning. Middleton pitched a perfect inning for his second save on the year. Middleton has had an up and down June, but is rounding into form right as the trade deadline approaches.

Hierarchy remains: *Graveman | Kelly | Lopez.
* = closer-by-committee

June 18, 2023
Chicago White Sox – With the White Sox holding a 3 run lead and the hierarchy needing a rest, they turned to Keynan Middleton for the 9th inning. Middleton pitched a perfect inning for his second save on the year. Middleton has had an up and down June, but is rounding into form right as the trade deadline approaches.

Hierarchy remains: *Graveman | Kelly | Lopez.
* = closer-by-committee

June 18, 2023
Chicago White Sox – Jesse Scholtens picked up an extra inning save for his first career save.  The entire White Sox hierarchy got a second day off after pitching in back-to-back games.

Hierarchy remains: *Graveman | Kelly | Lopez.
* = closer-by-committee

June 11, 2023
Chicago White Sox – Liam Hendriks has been placed on the IL with right elbow inflammation.  Kendall Graveman should lead this committee while Hendriks out with Joe Kelly and Renaldo Lopez also being in the mix.

Updated hierarchy: *Graveman | Kelly | Lopez.
* = closer-by-committee

June 9, 2023
Chicago White Sox – In Game 1 of a doubleheader Thursday, Kendall Graveman secured his sixth save, an outcome predicted by the Vulture Save Watch. Liam Hendriks did not appear in either game as it appears he is being eased back. It’s also possible he would have been used if Chicago had a late-inning lead in the nightcap.

Hierarchy remains: *Hendriks | Graveman | Kelly.
* = closer-by-committee

June 7, 2023
Chicago White Sox – After giving up a leadoff homer, Liam Hendriks bounced back to retire the next three Yankee hitters he faced on Tuesday to earn his first save since returning from chemotherapy. He’s pitched the ninth in each of his last two appearances, earning a win and a save, and looks to be back in his usual role as White Sox closer. 

Updated hierarchy: *Hendriks | Graveman | Kelly.
* = closer-by-committee

May 30, 2023
Chicago White Sox – With 2 runs allowed on 3 hits, it surely wasn’t quite the return that Liam Hendriks was hoping for, but we still got chills watching him run in from the bullpen for the first time this year. Watch it here.

Hierarchy remains: *Graveman | Lopez | Kelly.
* = closer-by-committee

May 29, 2023
Chicago White Sox – Liam Hendriks returns to the big leagues today. We’ve touched on his medical journey following his cancer diagnosis, and perhaps most notable is how far ahead of schedule he is in terms of his return to baseball. Whether he pitches in high-leverage spots right away isn’t really the story here, but of course, we will dutifully track his usage and update this hierarchy when appropriate. Welcome back, Liam.

Hierarchy remains: *Graveman | Lopez | Kelly.
* = closer-by-committee

May 26, 2023
Chicago White Sox – Liam Hendriks will throw live batting practice on Friday. His previous BP session went well and he could be activated soon. Stay tuned.

Hierarchy remains: *Graveman | Lopez | Kelly.
* = closer-by-committee

May 22, 2023
Chicago White Sox – With Kendall Graveman getting the night off, the White Sox went to Joe Kelly for the save. Kelly converted and in doing so earned his way back to the hierarchy.

Updated hierarchy: *Graveman | Lopez | Kelly.
* = closer-by-committee

May 19, 2023
Chicago White Sox — Liam Hendriks plans to throw live batting practice Friday and if that goes well, he’ll return to the majors “soon thereafter.”

Hierarchy remains: *Graveman | Lopez | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee

May 14, 2023
Chicago White Sox — Kendall Graveman closed out a 3-1 White Sox victory to record his second save of the season.  Graveman should continue to be the best bet for saves on any given night until Liam Hendriks is able to return.  Hendriks is currently on a rehab assignment and is expected to pitch today and again Tuesday or Wednesday before being re-evaluated.

Hierarchy remains: *Graveman | Lopez | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee

May 10, 2023
Chicago White Sox — Kendall Graveman earned his first save of the season on Tuesday with a perfect ninth inning. That followed a 1-2-3 eighth inning from Reynaldo Lopez.

Hierarchy remains: *Graveman | Lopez | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee

May 6, 2023
Chicago White Sox — A couple days ago Reynaldo Lopez had been dealing with a “bit of dead arm” in his bicep, and was hoping to avoid an IL stint. Last night the White Sox gave him the ball in a 1 run game, and with the help of a lineout double play, he converted for his team leading 4th save of the year. This performance lowered his ERA from a woeful 8.78 to a morose 8.16 (thanks Thesaurus.com). The Vulture Save Watch predicted that Kendall Graveman would get the night off, so he’s sticking at the top of the committee for now, but if Lopez is healthy, it appears he is a viable choice on the South Side, at least until Liam Hendriks is able to return.

Updated hierarchy: *Graveman | Lopez | Middleton.
* = closer-by-committee

May 4, 2023
Chicago White Sox — Cancer survivor Liam Hendriks gave a triumphant news conference in preparation for four or five rehab outings at AAA. Until his return, the White Sox bullpen will remain unsettled. Keynan Middleton picked up the save on Wednesday, following up on scoreless innings by Gregory Santos and Kendall Graveman. We don’t know who’ll get the next save chance, but it’s not likely to be Reynaldo Lopez, who is trying to stay off the IL with a biceps injury. We give Graveman a slight edge for now, but Middleton has a 15.1 K/9 rate and could be allowed to build on recent success.

Updated hierarchy: *Graveman | Middleton | Santos.
* = closer-by-committee

April 28, 2023
Chicago White Sox – Liam Hendriks will be in Chicago next week to get a check-up before he is approved to begin a rehab assignment. Garret Crochet, meanwhile, might also be going on a rehab assignment soon.

Hierarchy remains: *Lopez | Graveman | Bummer.
* = closer-by-committee

April 22, 2023
Chicago White Sox – With a 2 run lead in the 9th the White Sox brought in Reynaldo Lopez, who had an outing to forget. A leadoff homer brought the game closer, then a single and a walkoff homer ended the game with Lopez taking the loss while failing to record an out. Lopez is still the only player to record a save, but his ERA sits at an ugly 9.35. The saving grace for Lopez is that nobody else is pitching well out of the bullpen either, so he holds onto his top spot for now, but don’t be surprised if the next save chance goes to someone else. 

Hierarchy remains: *Lopez | Graveman | Bummer.
* = closer-by-committee

April 21, 2023
Chicago White Sox – We are incredibly happy to report that Liam Hendriks is now cancer-free! The White Sox closer made the announcement on social media on Thursday. Remember that he was not placed on the 60-day IL to start the season, so perhaps he could return at some point soon. No timetable has been announced yet but we will keep you posted.

Hierarchy remains: *Lopez | Graveman | Bummer.
* = closer-by-committee

April 11, 2023
Chicago White Sox – Joe Kelly was placed on the IL with a right groin strain. Look for Aaron Bummer’s hold chances to increase in his absence.

Updated hierarchy: *Lopez | Graveman | Bummer.
* = closer-by-committee

April 7, 2023
Chicago White Sox — Congratulations are due for Liam Hendriks, who finished his final round of chemo earlier this week! He was only placed on the 15-day IL to start the year – not the 60-day IL. This suggests he could return sooner than June. Stay tuned!

Hierarchy remains: *Lopez | Graveman | Kelly.
* = closer-by-committee

April 2, 2023
Chicago White Sox — Joe Kelly made his season debut yesterday as he came on in the 7th inning of a tie game and was greeted by boos from the home Houston Astros’ crowd.  Kelly ended up taking the loss but manager Pedro Grifol mentioned Kelly as a high leverage guy, along with with Reynoldo Lopez, so we will add him back onto the hiearchy.

Updated hierarchy: *Lopez | Graveman | Kelly.
* = closer-by-committee

March 31, 2023
Chicago White Sox — As Chicago awaits the potential return of Liam Hendriks later this year, their ninth inning situation appears a bit cloudy. Reynaldo Lopez got the first crack on Opening Day, yielding a run on a colossal home run by Yordan Alvarez. Aaron Bummer secured the last two outs of the seventh inning and Kendall Graveman tossed a scoreless eighth to set things up. Let’s slide Lopez, who had a lot of hype in the fantasy baseball industry this spring, to the top given the usage to start 2023, but he isn’t cemented into any role just yet.

Updated hierarchy: *Lopez | Graveman | Bummer.
* = closer-by-committee

March 30, 2023
Chicago White Sox — Good news here, as Liam Hendriks’s fight against cancer is going so well that the team has elected to place him on the 15-day IL instead of the 60-day IL, auguring a potential return as early as June. Garret Crochet (Tommy John surgery) could also rejoin the team as early as May.

Hierarchy remains: *Graveman | Kelly | Bummer.
* = closer-by-committee

March 13, 2023
Chicago White Sox — All-Star closer Liam Hendriks is expected to begin the season on the IL after announcing in January that he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.  The White Sox have a number of options to close games while Hendriks is out, but it looks like they will not have a set closer in Hendriks’s absence.  Kendall Graveman was the primary set-up man for Hendriks last year and should start the year at the head of the committee.  Righties Joe Kelly and Reynaldo Lopez, as well as lefties Aaron Bummer and Jake Diekman, could also be in the mix.

Starting 2023 hierarchy: *Graveman | Kelly | Bummer.
* = closer-by-committee
Holds candidates: Kelly, Bummer, Lopez, Jake Diekman, Garrett Crochet.

September 18, 2022
Chicago White Sox – Aaron Bummer picked up the extra innings save yesterday after Liam Hendriks and Kendall Graveman both pitched earlier in the game.

Updated hierarchy: Hendriks | Graveman | Bummer.

August 15, 2022
Chicago White Sox – Kendall Graveman sat atop the VSW charts yesterday morning, and sure enough, he earned the save for the White Sox, spelling Liam Hendriks.

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Graveman | Diekman.

August 4, 2022
Chicago White Sox — Jake Diekman changed Sox at the trade deadline and got right into the swing of things, picking up two consecutive holds for Chicago. Diekman has struggled this season, but no more so than his competitor for the seventh inning, Joe Kelly. We’ll swap them out for now and see how things progress.

Updated hierarchy: Hendriks | Graveman | Diekman.

July 28, 2022
Chicago White Sox — Kendall Graveman got the vulture save chance we forecast, but he threw it away with three walks and a ground-ball single. We can’t do it all.

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Graveman | Kelly.

July 24, 2022
Chicago White Sox – After Liam Hendriks took the loss in game one of the doubleheader and Kendall Graveman and Joe Kelly already pitched on the day, Matt Foster was the next man up in the White Sox bullpen.  Foster came on for the 9th inning after the White Sox took a one-run lead in the bottom of the 8th, and he pitched a scoreless inning for his first save of the season.

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Graveman | Kelly.

July 5, 2022
Chicago White Sox – Liam Hendriks is back from the IL and looked very sharp as he mowed down the Twins in the 8th inning, striking out the side on 14 pitches. Look for him to slot right back into his spot atop the White Sox hierarchy.

Updated hierarchy: Hendriks | Graveman | Kelly.

July 2, 2022
Chicago White Sox – Kendall Graveman pitched a perfect 9th after the White Sox took the lead in the top half of the inning, but the major news is that Liam Hendriks is expected to be activated from the IL monday. Graveman hasn’t given up any earned runs since Hendriks hit the IL, but only has a couple saves in that time. Henriks will likely jump right back to the top of this hierarchy when he returns.

Hierarchy Remains: *Graveman | Kelly | Ruiz.
* = closer-by-committee

June 21, 2022
Chicago White Sox – After Kendall Graveman was brought in to face the 3-4-5 hitters in the 8th inning, Joe Kelly came on for the 9th. He made it interesting, allowing a two-run homer to Cavan Biggio, but then settled down to record the final two outs, netting his first save. It’s probable this was a matchup play — Graveman is clearly the best arm in this pen right now — but we’ll slap a committee tag on here in case they use him in his traditional fireman role rather than as an exclusive closer.

Updated hierarchy: *Graveman | Kelly | Ruiz.
* = closer-by-committee

June 15, 2022
Chicago White Sox – We alerted you yesterday that Liam Hendriks will need an IL stint thanks to a right forearm strain; no word yet on the severity. Kendall Graveman will close in his absence. We’ll also welcome Joe Kelly to the hierarchy. He was activated from the IL on Tuesday and protected a 5-1 lead with a perfect eighth inning against the Tigers’ 4-5-6 hitters. After the game, Tony La Russa expressed confidence in using Kelly in any situation.

Updated hierarchy: Graveman | Ruiz | Kelly.

June 14, 2022
Chicago White Sox – Liam Hendriks will need an IL stint after all. It’s a right forearm strain; no word yet on the severity. Kendall Graveman will close in his absence.

Updated hierarchy: Graveman | Ruiz | Crick.

June 14, 2022
Chicago White Sox – Liam Hendriks hasn’t pitched much lately, and Tony La Russa turned heads when he noted that his closer wasn’t available “at all” on Sunday, but he appears to be on the verge of returning after playing catch on Monday. Kendall Graveman would be the beneficiary should Hendriks miss any extended length of time.

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Graveman | Bummer.

May 26, 2022
Chicago White Sox — Aaron Bummer is back from the injured list and back in the seventh for Chicago.

Updated hierarchy: Hendriks | Graveman | Bummer.

May 11, 2022
Chicago White Sox – Kendall Graveman closed out Tuesday’s win as Liam Hendriks got the night off after having pitched in three of four.

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Graveman | Ruiz.

May 9, 2022
Chicago White Sox – With an assured day of rest for Liam Hendriks, it was assumed that Kendall Graveman would get the save chance on Sunday if one arose. But instead, Tony La Russa gave the highly-used Graveman the day off as well, and Jose Ruiz and Bennett Sousa combined for a scoreless 9th, with Sousa nabbing the one-out save.

Updated hierarchy: Hendriks | Graveman | Ruiz.

April 29, 2022
Chicago White Sox — Manager Tony La Russa said he might have used Liam Hendriks (back spasms) on Thursday if there was a save chance, but otherwise he was avoiding him. So, it seems Hendriks could return as soon as Friday or Saturday.

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Graveman | Bummer.

April 28, 2022
Chicago White Sox — The Vulture Save Watch correctly predicted a Kendall Graveman save on Wednesday with Liam Hendriks continuing to recover from back spasms.

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Graveman | Bummer.

April 27, 2022
Chicago White Sox — Liam Hendriks is day-to-day with back spasms and was potentially available on Tuesday, though he wasn’t needed in a 6-0 loss.

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Graveman | Bummer.

April 10, 2022
Chicago White Sox — Aaron Bummer gave up singles to the first two batters he faced in the ninth inning, but then he struck out the side to pick up his first save of the season.  Closer Liam Hendriks and set-up man Kendall Graveman were both rested yesterday.

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Graveman | Bummer.

April 1, 2022
Chicago White Sox — With Craig Kimbrel headed to LA, expect Kendall Graveman and Aaron Bummer to back up Liam Hendriks.

Updated hierarchy: Hendriks | Graveman | Bummer.

March 22, 2022
Chicago White Sox — Chicago currently boasts its most formidable bullpen to open a season in recent memory. They could still look to trade Craig Kimbrel, who has tended to fare better as a closer than in a setup role, but for now consider him first in line behind one of the game’s best, Liam Hendriks. Kendall Graveman and Joe Kelly joined Chicago in the offseason to give the bullpen some significant depth.

Starting 2022 hierarchy: Hendriks | Kimbrel | Graveman.
Holds candidates: Kimbrel, Graveman, Joe Kelly, Garrett Crochet, Aaron Bummer.

September 25, 2021
Chicago White Sox — Liam Hendriks closed out a 1-0 White Sox victory with a perfect 9th inning for his 35th save of the season.  When the White Sox acquired Craig Kimbrel about eight weeks ago, we thought Hendriks value would take a hit, but Kimbrel has only recorded one save in a White Sox uniform. and that was on a day Henriks was unavailable.  This hasn’t been a committee at all and the asterisk should have been removed long ago.

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Kimbrel | Kopech.

August 27, 2021
Chicago White Sox — The Vulture Save Watch predicted that Liam Hendriks might get a second day off and that was indeed the case as Craig Kimbrel needed just six pitches (all strikes) to collect his first save with the White Sox.

Hierarchy remains: *Hendriks | Kimbrel | Kopech.
* = closer-by-committee

August 21, 2021
Chicago White Sox — Craig Kimbrel was summoned in the eighth inning of a three-run game. He struggled with his command, but managed to get two outs while only walking one before being lifted for Aaron Bummer. Bummer let the inherited runner score and gave up two of his own to take the blown save. After Liam Hendriks pitched a scoreless 10th, Ryan Tepera converted the save in the 11th. Tepera has been solid in the last month, but he faces a logjam ahead of him for a hierarchy spot.  Kimbrel’s struggles have been a problem, but last night’s blown save wasn’t really on his shoulders. Even so, he seems solidly locked into the eighth inning.

Hierarchy remains: *Hendriks | Kimbrel | Kopech.
* = closer-by-committee

August 13, 2021
Chicago White Sox — Chicago could have used Eddie Cicotte in the ninth (score another for the Vulture Ghost Watch?) at the amazing Field of Dreams game Thursday. After Craig Kimbrel tossed a scoreless eighth inning, Liam Hendriks was touched for four runs in the ninth to blow his sixth save, jacking his ERA up to 3.08. Could this finally nudge the White Sox to try Kimbrel in the ninth?

Hierarchy remains: *Hendriks | Kimbrel | Kopech.
* = closer-by-committee

August 8, 2021
Chicago White Sox — Another day, another eighth-inning appearance for Craig Kimbrel.  Kimbrel’s usage since being acquired by the White Sox has to be alarming for fantasy owners looking for saves from the dominant reliever.  We will continue to monitor this situation to see how the White Sox use Kimbrel and Liam Hendriks moving forward.

Hierarchy remains: *Hendriks | Kimbrel | Kopech.
* = closer-by-committee

August 7, 2021
Chicago White Sox –Craig Kimbrel came in to protect a three-run lead in the eighth inning, but a three-run homer by Andrew Romine handed him a blown save for the first time since May 15. The White Sox would go on to win in the 10th inning, with Liam Hendriks picking up the win. Kimbrel has only made two appearances for the White Sox, but both have come in the eighth ahead of Hendriks. The White Sox have said that Kimbrel and Hendriks will split save chances, but it looks like Hendriks is the top choice in this committee for now.

Updated hierarchy: *Hendriks | Kimbrel | Kopech.
* = closer-by-committee

July 31, 2021
Chicago White Sox –The White Sox won the Craig Kimbrel auction, giving up a lot to get more back end bullpen help. After their big time acquisition, they immediately announced that Kimbrel would be splitting save chances with Liam Hendriks. Hendriks has been very solid this year, but Kimbrel is having arguably the best season of any reliever in baseball. This news hurts both of their values as they went from surefire closer status to competing for chances. It’s hard to see Kimbrel being anything other than the top option, so he gets that spot for now, but we will monitor this situation to see if Tony La Russa starts playing any favorites.

Updated hierarchy: Kimbrel | Hendriks | Kopech.
* = closer-by-committee

July 30, 2021
Chicago White Sox — Craig Kimbrel and Liam Hendriks will each get save opportunities for the White Sox down the stretch, in an effort to keep everyone fresh. We’ll throw a committee tag on this bullpen and see how Tony LaRussa chooses to handle it.

Updated hierarchy: Kimbrel | Hendriks | Kopech.
* = closer-by-committee

July 30, 2021
Chicago White Sox — Ryan Tepera joins an inconsistent White Sox bullpen. Liam Hendriks is the no-doubt closer, but what’s behind him is a bit murky. Let’s slot Tepera at second in line behind Hendriks and Michael Kopech, who has been excellent (1.52 ERA, 12.8 K/9, 8 holds) in 2021.

Updated hierarchy: Hendriks | Kopech | Tepera.

July 19, 2021
Chicago White Sox – Michael Kopech got the 8th inning ahead of Liam Hendriks and looks to be the handcuff for the White Sox at this point. Kopech, who started three games earlier this year, now has a 1.49 ERA and 52 Ks in 36.1 innings.

Updated hierarchy: Hendriks | Kopech | Burr.

July 17, 2021
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox activated Aaron Bummer yesterday, but his return went poorly, giving up 4 runs and mixing in a couple wild pitches. Bummer had been a solid part of the White Sox late innings prior to his IL stint, and will likely work his way back there, but after last night we will wait to see how they deploy him before he returns to the hierarchy. 

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Burr | Crochet.

July 12, 2021
Chicago White Sox – Matt Foster picked up his first big league save, logging the final two outs in an extra inning game. Foster won’t likely get many high-leverage chances going forward.

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Burr | Crochet.

July 1, 2021
Chicago White Sox — Chicago placed Aaron Bummer and Evan Marshall on the IL, and Garrett Crochet has fallen out of high-leverage favor, pitching last night with an 11-run lead. Pitching a tight eighth most recently was Ryan Burr (nine scoreless outings, 0.33 WHIP), but the game before that, Burr served as the opener. Burr, Crochet, and Codi Heuer are the best options behind Liam Hendriks at this point.

Updated hierarchy: Hendriks | Burr | Crochet.

June 24, 2021
Chicago White Sox — 22-year-old Garrett Crochet has struggled lately, but there’s no obvious candidate to take his spot in the seventh inning. Evan Marshall, Codi Heuer, and Ryan Burr are lurking, but to no great effect. The long-term plan for Crochet remains the starting rotation, at which point he will be dead to us.

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Bummer | Crochet.

June 12, 2021
Chicago White Sox — The Vulture Save Watch picked up another one, but not in the classic way. Liam Hendriks forced a rain delay with a two-run lead in the 9th, but after the sky cleared, he couldn’t convert the save chance. When the Sox regained the lead in the 10th, Aaron Bummer came in to pick up his second save of the year. Hendriks had been riding a 14-game scoreless streak, so he will be fine. Just make sure you’ve got a dry ball for him. 

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Bummer | Crochet.

June 2, 2021
Chicago White Sox – For folks playing in holds leagues, it’s worth noting that the White Sox are avoiding back-to-back days of work for Garrett Crochet right now, but that his usage will expand with time.

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Bummer | Crochet.

June 1, 2021
Chicago White Sox – Aaron Bummer picked up the save in the first game of Chicago’s doubleheader; hopefully a few of you speculated on him after he appeared in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch!

Hierarchy remains: Hendriks | Bummer | Crochet.

May 14, 2021
Chicago White Sox – 2020 first-rounder Garret Crochet continues to pitch well in a relief role, collecting his fourth hold on Thursday with a scoreless seventh inning. Crochet projects as a starter long term, and has a higher WHIP than you’d think (1.50 WHIP), but he is more likely to get future late-inning looks than Evan Marshall, who has allowed six earned runs in his last five appearances.

Updated hierarchy: Hendriks | Bummer | Crochet.

March 3, 2021
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox made a splash in free agency when they signed Liam Hendriks.  Hendriks will replace Alex Colome as the team’s closer and lead a bullpen that could be one of the best in baseball.  Veterans Aaron Bummer and Evan Marshall return and should handle the set-up duties in the 7th and 8th innings to start the season. Codi Heuer impressed in his rookie season and has closer potential so he will be a guy to keep an eye on.

Starting 2021 hierarchy: Hendriks | Bummer | Marshall.
Holds candidates: Bummer, Marshall, Cody Heuer.

September 27, 2020
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox bullpen is starting to get healthy at the right time as Evan Marshall has returned from the IL.  Marshall was immediately inserted back into his 8th inning role and pitched a scoreless inning.  Alex Colome, who has been battling back spasms, also pitched a scoreless inning to lower his ERA to 0.81 for the season.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Marshall | Bummer.

September 25, 2020
Chicago White Sox — Aaron Bummer was activated from the injured list Thursday and should slot in behind Alex Colome for the regular season’s final few games. Colome (back spasms) is expected to be available if needed this weekend, but don’t be surprised if Bummer steals a save chance. 

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Bummer | Heuer.

September 24, 2020
Chicago White Sox — While Alex Colome is still dealing with back spasms, he was available last night if needed. The White Sox have already clinched a playoff berth, but last night’s loss took them out of first place in the AL Central. With the playoffs looming we don’t expect Alex Colome to get more than one appearance this weekend, giving the rest of the hierarchy a chance to vulture a save down the stretch. 

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Heuer | Cordero.

September 23, 2020
Chicago White Sox — Alex Colome needed just six pitches to get through a tied ninth inning, but he was unable to return for the 10th inning to protect a 3-1 lead after experiencing back spasms in the dugout. Manager Rick Renteria didn’t seem overly concerned after the game, but we’ll likely know more today. Even though the White Sox are in a tight battle for the AL Central crown, they have a postseason spot locked up and can afford to be careful with Colome prior to the playoffs. Codi Heuer, Jimmy Cordero and Garrett Crochet could all have a chance to record a save over the final five games.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Heuer | Cordero.

September 19, 2020
Chicago White Sox — Evan Marshall has been placed on the injured list with shoulder inflammation. Although GM Rick Hahn expects him back after only the minimum 10-day stay, for the meantime, Codi Heuer and Jimmy Cordero will hold down the middle innings. Also keep an eye on 2020 first-round draft pick Garrett Crochet, a future starter who’ll pitch out of the bullpen this season — and hit 101 MPH in his debut Friday night.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Heuer | Cordero.

September 12, 2020
Chicago White Sox — Codi Heuer has moved ahead of Jimmy Cordero in the White Sox hierarchy.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Marshall | Heuer.

August 9, 2020
Chicago White Sox — Aaron Bummer has been placed on the IL with a left biceps strain.  Jimmy Cordero and Codi Heuer should see more time in the later innings with Bummer sidelined.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Marshall | Cordero.

August 8, 2020
Chicago White Sox — Aaron Bummer has been regularly pitching in front of Evan Marshall, who picked up his third eighth-inning hold in eight days on Friday.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Marshall | Bummer.

August 2, 2020
Chicago White Sox — Codi Heuer got the last out of the 8th and then after the Whie Sox added 4 more runs in the top of the 9th, he finished off the game for the save.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Bummer | Marshall.

August 1, 2020
Chicago White Sox — Evan Marshall was Chicago’s seventh-inning guy for most of 2019, and he’s off to a hot start this year too (4.2 IP, 8 K, 0 ER). He and Aaron Bummer should continue setting up Alex Colome. 

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Bummer | Marshall.

February 24, 2020
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox bring back closer Alex Colome and set-up man Aaron Bummer, who are both coming off great seasons in 2019.  They also signed veteran Steve Cishek and he should join Colome and Bummer at the back end of the White Sox bullpen.  Kelvin Herrera and Jace Fry are a couple guys who will be looking to bounce back in 2020 after struggling in 2019.

Starting 2020 hierarchy: Colome | Bummer | Cishek.
Holds candidates: Bummer, Cishek, Jace Fry.

July 24, 2019
Chicago White Sox — It’s worth noting that Jace Fry has been sharp of late, posting a 0.79 ERA over his last 14 appearances. If Fry keeps pitching like this, it will be hard for the White Sox to keep him away from more consistent high-leverage work.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Bummer | Marshall.

July 21, 2019
Chicago White Sox — Kelvin Herrera has been placed on the IL.  Look for Evan Marshall and Jace Fry to see more time in the latter innings as a result.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Bummer | Marshall.

July 4, 2019
Chicago White Sox — Kelvin Herrera and his 7.89 ERA can’t be considered the favorite to take over the ninth on the South Side if Alex Colome gets traded this month. Herrera is already looking up at Aaron Bummer, and Evan Marshall and Juan Minaya are in line to supplant him.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Bummer | Herrera.

June 14, 2019
Chicago White Sox — Alex Colome got an extra day of rest after 39 pitches on Tuesday, allowing lefty Aaron Bummer to grab his first career save. Bummer has been impressive (1.37 ERA, 5 holds), and is someone to watch in the late innings. Evan Marshall (0.00 ERA) hasn’t done anything wrong, but Bummer could be in the conversation for saves if Colome leaves Chicago.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Herrera | Bummer.

May 20, 2019
Chicago White Sox – Evan Marshall pitched a clean 7th inning for the White Sox and has yet to allow a run in 8 outings on the year. Look for him to get more high leverage looks.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Herrera | Marshall.

April 29, 2019
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox put Nate Jones on the IL with inflammation in his pitching elbow. Jace Fry will likely see a few more hold chances going forward.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Herrera | Fry.

April 13, 2019
Chicago White Sox – Mother Nature stayed perfect in save opportunities last night, and gave the credit to Nate Jones, who got the last out of the sixth inning before rain forced an early end to the game.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Herrera | Jones.

April 1, 2019
Chicago White Sox – Alex Colome got his first save of the season, and for the second day in a row, it was Kelvin Herrera pitching ahead of him. Herrera seems to be the favorite for the set-up role here, as Nate Jones has been used earlier in games thus far.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Herrera | Jones.

February 18, 2019
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox traded for Alex Colome and signed Kelvin Herrera in the offseason to bolster their bullpen.  They also bring back Nate Jones and Jace Fry.  Colome is the likely closer, especially with Herrera battling a foot injury.  Fry will be the primary lefty out of the bullpen and veteran Nate Jones could start the year as the set-up man if Herrera isn’t fully healthy.

Starting 2019 hierarchy: Colome | Jones | Herrera.
Holds candidates: Jones, Herrera, Jace Fry.

September 26, 2018
Chicago White Sox — Jace Fry will start Wednesday’s game, which means Nate Jones may vulture a save if the opportunity arises. The White Sox are off on Thursday, so Fry should be available out of the bullpen for the team’s next game even if he pitches two innings tonight.

Hierarchy remains: *Fry | Jones | Minaya.
* = closer-by-committee

September 20, 2018
Chicago White Sox — If Ian Hamilton turns out to be Chicago’s closer of the future, he’ll have nowhere to go but up. Called on for his first save chance with one out, two on, and a one-run lead, Hamilton hit Yan Gomes to load the bases, then gave up a walk-off grand slam. Better days are coming.

Hierarchy remains: *Fry | Jones | Minaya.
* = closer-by-committee

September 16, 2018
Chicago White Sox – Juan Minaya got the last four outs of the White Sox 2-0 victory to pick up his first save of the season.  Minaya has not allowed a run in September and could be an option for saves behind Jace Fry and Nate Jones for the rest of the year.

Updated hierarchy: *Fry | Jones | Minaya.
* = closer-by-committee

September 15, 2018
Chicago White Sox – Jace Fry pitched a clean 8th inning with a two-run lead, which left Nate Jones for the 9th inning. Jones gave up a hit but closed the game out for his first save since May 22. Activated earlier this week, this was Jones’ first high-leverage action since his return. Jones is certainly in the mix for saves during the last few weeks, but with the White Sox out of contention and Rick Renteria indicating that they will monitor Jones’s usage, he probably will see only a couple more opportunities to close this year.

Updated hierarchy: *Fry | Jones | Gomez.
* = closer-by-committee

September 11, 2018
Chicago White Sox – Nate Jones was activated from the 60-day DL on Tuesday and pitched in an eventual 6-3 loss that night, allowing one hit and striking out one. Rick Renteria said that the team will monitor Jones’ usage throughout the rest of the year and make sure he is healthy entering the offseason. Don’t bank on Jones making too many ninth-inning appearances in September, but he could certainly vulture a save in this bullpen over the final three weeks of the season.

Updated hierarchy: *Fry | Gomez | Jones.
* = closer-by-committee

September 1, 2018
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox traded Xavier Cedeno to the Brewers on Friday. This bullpen will continue to be volatile, but Juan Minaya picked up a hold yesterday and may get some more opportunities in September.

Updated hierarchy: *Fry | Gomez | Minaya.
* = closer-by-committee

August 27, 2018
Chicago White Sox – After Hector Santiago turned a blowout interesting, Jace Fry came on with the bases loaded and 1 out in the 9th with the White Sox up by 5 runs. He induced a pop out and a strikeout, cashing his third save of the year. If you’re going to own a reliever in this bullpen, Fry is probably the best bet at the moment.

Hierarchy remains: *Fry | Cedeno | Gomez.
* = closer-by-committee

August 23, 2018
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox traded Luis Avilan to Philadelphia and called up relief prospect Ryan Burr. Burr, the all-time leader in saves at Arizona State, is probably as likely as anyone in this random bullpen to grab saves going forward, but for now we’ll reshuffle Jace Fry, Xavier Cedeno, and Jeanmar Gomez in roughly the order they’ve been appearing lately.

Updated hierarchy: *Fry | Cedeno | Gomez.
* = closer-by-committee

August 20, 2018
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox used five relievers to navigate the final three innings of the game, with Jace Fry getting the final two outs by strikeout to pick up his second save. (He was preceded, in reverse order, by Thyago Vieira, Luis Avilan, Xavier Cedeno, and Jeanmar Gomez.) While it seems like any of these players could get a save on any given night, the lefties have had the edge lately in one of the few lefty-heavy bullpens in baseball, as Fry, Avilan, and Cedeno have recorded the last three saves. We’ll leave Cedeno in the catbird seat, as he’s got the lowest ERA of the three. Also, probably best to not own any of these guys unless your league is super deep, in case that wasn’t obvious.

Updated hierarchy: *Cedeno | Avilan | Fry.
* = closer-by-committee

August 16, 2018
Chicago White Sox — Ugh, these guys again. Wednesday it was Jeanmar Gomez to start the ninth with a walk, a single, and a strikeout. Lefty Luis Avilan hadn’t pitched with a lead in two weeks, so of course Rick Renteria called his number. Avilan wasn’t particularly effective, allowing Gomez’s two baserunners to score on two hits, but he managed to secure a third out for his second save. STAY AWAY.

Hierarchy remains: *Cedeno | Vieira | Minaya. 
* = closer-by-committee

August 15, 2018
Chicago White Sox — If you had Xavier Cedeno in your lineup last night, congratulations! After Juan Minaya walked the first batter of the ninth inning on five pitches, Cedeno came in and collected his first save of the season. Cedeno wasn’t even the best White Sox lefty on Tuesday, as Jace Fry struck out four of the seven batters he faced. What does this mean for the late innings on the South Side? Minaya certainly didn’t help his case to close more games, but with both Cedeno and Fry pitching well (for now), Luis Avilan may currently be the lefty on the outside looking in at the moment. Thyago Vieira still has the stuff to close, but it’s telling that Rick Renteria opted to keep Cedeno in last night’s game against the top of the Tigers’ order rather than keep mixing and matching. We’ll move Cedeno to the top of this volatile hierarchy and keep hoping you don’t have to rely on any of these guys for saves.

Updated hierarchy: *Cedeno | Vieira | Minaya. 
* = closer-by-committee

August 5, 2018
Chicago White Sox — For the third consecutive game, the White Sox held a narrow late in the game and for the third time in a row, they called on someone new to close it out.  Thyago Vieira, making his third appearance since getting called up in late July, struck out a pair to record his first career save.  Juan Minaya and Xavier Cedeno combined to work the 7th and 8th in a tie game, with Cedeno getting the win.  Vieira’s number in the minors were not great, but he can hit 100 MPH with his fastball and was impressive in his previous outing.  The White Sox seem content to mix and match, but we will move Vieira to the top of the committee based on his potential.

Updated hierarchy: *Vieira | Cedeno | Avilan. 
* = closer-by-committee

August 4, 2018
Chicago White Sox — It’s looking more like names from a hat than a committee on the South Side of Chicago. Last night featured Jace Fry, Juan Minaya, Luis Avilan pitching in the 8th and 9th, failing to preserve a lead, then holding on to the tie to take it into extra innings. When the White Sox took the lead in the 10th, they turned to Hector Santiago (no holds and no saves before yesterday) to close the game out. He walked a batter but secured the win. This continues to be a committee, and it continues to be chaotic. If you need the saves that badly, you may as well pick some names out of a hat as well.

Hierarchy remains: *Fry | Cedeno | Avilan. 
* = closer-by-committee

August 3, 2018
Chicago White Sox — We finally have a White Sox save after the Joakim Soria trade. Did it offer any clarity on their bullpen situation? No. Five relievers combined for the final six outs! After Jace Fry and Juan Minaya recorded strikeouts with two men in scoring position in the eighth inning, Xavier Cedeno cleared the bases by allowing a three-run shot, putting him in line to take the loss. After the Sox retook the lead, he came back on and allowed a double before he was pulled. In came Jeanmar Gomez . . . who recorded one out, then got pulled. Luis Avilan was the last quality arm left, and he nailed down the final two outs for his first save. The usage suggests manager Rick Renteria was playing matchups (or picking names out of a hat), but we can’t ignore the save for Avilan. In the messy hierarchy he goes.

Updated hierarchy: *Fry | Cedeno | Avilan. 
* = closer-by-committee

July 30, 2018
Chicago White Sox – On Saturday, Jace Fry got the final three outs of a 4-run victory, but Sunday went far worse for Chicago’s new probably-closer. After allowing a leadoff home run to tie it, Fry hit a batter on a 1-2 pitch, then gave up a double before being lifted for Jeanmar Gomez, who made things much worse by giving up three more hits. Our guess is that he gets another shot before the White Sox start looking elsewhere, but given how well Xavier Cedeno is pitching, Fry probably can’t afford another outing like this one.

Hierarchy remains: *Fry | Cedeno | Gomez. 
* = closer-by-committee

July 27, 2018
Chicago White Sox – Shortly after the Joakim Soria trade, the White Sox took the field for a day game, and sent Jace Fry out to get the last 2 outs of the 7th inning in a game they were losing by four. Though Fry was the pick of some beat guys to get the first look at closing, this usage immediately throws this bullpen into a committee status. Juan Minaya and Xavier Cedeno also pitched yesterday — both in the earlier innings — of the White Sox loss, so all of a sudden, former Phillies closer Jeanmar Gomez may have the inside track on this job. Consider pairing him with Fry if you’ve got the roster space.

Updated hierarchy: *Fry | Gomez | Cedeno. 
* = closer-by-committee

July 26, 2018
Chicago White Sox — Looks like it’s Jace Fry time. With Joakim Soria moving to Milwaukee and Nate Jones still on the DL, the young lefthander is the favorite to move into the closer’s role, ahead of Xavier Cedeno, Juan Minaya, and Luis Avilan. Jeanmar Gomez (37 saves in 2016) is also a longshot to return to the ninth.

Updated hierarchy: Fry | Cedeno | Minaya.

July 24, 2018
Chicago White Sox – After a rough stretch in early July, Jace Fry has rebounded with two scoreless outings after the All Star Break, including an 8th inning hold last night. Fry should be among those considered for 9th inning duties in the event of a Joakim Soria trade, though the White Sox might look to a committee in the early going.

Hierarchy remains: Soria | Fry | Cedeno.

July 11, 2018
Chicago White Sox — Bruce Rondon entered Tuesday’s game with the bases loaded. He retired the first batter he faced, then walked the next three hitters to turn a 4-2 deficit into a 7-2 deficit. That should be it for Rondon in Chicago, as he was seen receiving well-wishes after the game. Nate Jones should be back after the All-Star break, but until then, lefty Xavier Cedeno (0.75 ERA, 15 K in 12 IP) is probably the best option for the White Sox when they enter the late innings. Juan Minaya and Luis Avilan should also be in line for some holds.

Updated hierarchy: Soria | Fry | Cedeno.

July 7, 2018
Chicago White Sox — Closer Joakim Soria finally had a rough outing Thursday night, blowing his third save and taking his third loss. It was the first time he has allowed an earned run since May 18, when his ERA was a bloated 5.65. Since then, he’s solidified himself (18 straight appearances without an earned run until Thursday) as the White Sox closer and would make an interesting trade chip later this month.

Hierarchy remains: Soria | Fry | Rondon.

June 27, 2018
Chicago White Sox – We could wax poetic about Jace Fry all night, as Tuesday brought another appearance and another clean 8th inning. Fry struck out the Twins’ two best hitters, Eddie Rosario and Eduardo Escobar, in another impressive outing for the young lefty. He now has 30 K’s in 23 IP, and with Nate Jones on the shelf, Fry would likely be the White Sox closer if and when Joakim Soria gets dealt.

Hierarchy remains: Soria | Fry | Rondon.

June 14, 2018
Chicago White Sox — Nate Jones is headed to the disabled list with a mild forearm strain that Rick Renteria says is not code for an elbow problem. 24-year-old Jace Fry will ascend to the setup role, with perpetual would-be closer Bruce Rondon also in the mix for high-leverage work. In Detroit, Rondon struggled with his weight, his effort levels, and a general propensity for drama, but he could be remaking himself, and reaping the rewards of his considerable talent, in Chicago.

Updated hierarchy: Soria | Fry | Rondon.

June 11, 2018
Chicago White Sox – Speaking of things that happened quickly, Joakim Soria now has a veritable death grip on the closer role on the South Side, having nabbed 4 saves in 6 days. Quite a turnaround for a guy who was in danger of being DFA’d earlier this season. We’re removing his asterisk.

Updated hierarchy: Soria | Jones | Fry.

June 9, 2018
Chicago White Sox — Nate Jones pitched the 8th inning ahead of Joakim Soria for the third time in a row. The White Sox seem to be settling into regular bullpen roles again, as Soria has been excellent in the past couple of weeks. He is only a month removed from pitching in a mop-up role with an ERA close to 6.00, but three straight saves is hard to ignore. He’ll hold onto the asterisk for now, but Soria is clearly the guy to own on the South Side.

Hierarchy remains: *Soria | Jones | Fry.
* = closer-by-committee

June 7, 2018
Chicago White Sox — All of a sudden, Joakim Soria is the man to own in Chicago again. Wednesday night, Soria’s sixth save followed scoreless outings from Bruce Rondon, Jace Fry, and Nate Jones. Since Soria lost the closer job on May 18, he’s made eight appearances and thrown 8.1 innings with 10 strikeouts and no earned runs.

Updated hierarchy: *Soria | Jones | Fry.
* = closer-by-committee

June 6, 2018
Chicago White Sox – Joakim Soria was the last of four White Sox pitchers to take the mound in the eighth, and after he recorded the final out of the inning, he stayed on for the ninth to convert his first save since April 27. No, that’s not a typo. Joakim Soria got the save after Jace Fry and Bruce Rondon combined for one out in the eighth. Where was Nate Jones? He blew the save in game one when he allowed four runs on three hits. Soria has not allowed an earned run in each of his last seven outings, picking up two holds and a save over his last three appearances. That’s good enough to return Soria to the hierarchy and make him one of four White Sox relievers currently in the mix for high-leverage work.

Updated hierarchy: *Jones | Fry | Soria.
* = closer-by-committee

June 2, 2018
Chicago White Sox – Danny Farquhar returned to the mound last night, throwing out the first pitch before the White Sox-Brewers game. Farquhar has a long recovery ahead of him, but he wants to come back and play. We wish him the best in his recovery and hope that the next time he takes the mound he’s facing a major league hitter.

Hierarchy remains: *Jones | Fry | Rondon.
* = closer-by-committee

May 21, 2018
Chicago White Sox – With Nate Jones getting the afternoon off, Jace Fry picked up his first save of the year on Sunday, and it was yet another scoreless, hitless inning. Fry, a lefty with crazy-deceptive stuff, has now stretched his hitless-innings streak to 8.1 and jumps his way up to the handcuff position.

Updated hierarchy: *Jones | Fry | Rondon.
* = closer-by-committee

May 20, 2018
Chicago White Sox — For the second time in three games, the White Sox actually had a lead in the 9th inning and they called on Nate Jones again for the save.  Jones recorded the last two outs of the ninth and has received (and converted) the last two save opportunities for the White Sox. That is enough to push Jones to the top of the committee.  Joakim Soria is close to dropping out of the hierarchy altogether and Jace Fry is a guy to watch.  Fry, a lefty, pitched a perfect eighth and came back out for the first out of the ninth before giving way to Jones.  Fry has not allowed a hit this season, and if the White Sox decide to match up more in the ninth, he could become more of a factor.

Updated hierarchy: *Jones | Rondon | Soria.
* = closer-by-committee

May 19, 2018
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox turned to Joakim Soria when faced with a four-run deficit in the final inning. Soria struggled through a 33-pitch outing, allowing three runs (two earned) and pushing his ERA to 5.65. Soria has allowed at least one earned run in each of his last three appearances. At this point, we have to think Rick Renteria will go to either Bruce Rondon or Nate Jones for the next save chance, but if enough time passes until then, maybe Soria will get another shot.

Hierarchy remains: *Soria | Rondon | Jones. 
* = closer-by-committee

May 18, 2018
Chicago White Sox — In true committee fashion, Nate Jones picked up a clean save for the White Sox on Thursday night, with Joakim Soria presumably available. Soria, who took a loss in his last outing, blew his most recent save chance, and since then, Jones and Bruce Rondon have picked up saves. With chances so rare for the 11-win White Sox, it’s tough for any potential closer to establish himself. Our guess is that Soria gets the next shot.

Hierarchy remains: *Soria | Rondon | Jones. 
* = closer-by-committee

May 14, 2018
Chicago White Sox – Also entering committee mode are the Chicago White Sox, who turned to Bruce Rondon for the save yesterday afternoon. With Joakim Soria struggling and Nate Jones blowing his chance to seize the job earlier this week, Rondon seems like a good bet to take over if he can convert another save — though Rick Renteria isn’t calling him the new closer yet. For now, we’re slapping an asterisk on and will elevate the big righty to the top spot if he can do it again.

Updated hierarchy: *Soria | Rondon | Jones. 
* = closer-by-committee

May 10, 2018
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox haven’t been earning many save opportunities, and when one arises, their putrid 5.68 ninth-inning ERA hasn’t led to many conversions. Wednesday they called on Nate Jones with a three-run lead in the ninth, and he gave up four runs on four hits to take the loss and run his own ninth-inning ERA to 8.44. Joakim Soria (6.14 ninth-inning ERA) should get the next save chance, in a week or so.

Hierarchy remains: *Soria | Jones | Rondon.
* = closer-by-committee

May 5, 2018
Chicago White Sox — Those rooting for Danny Farquhar — which is to say, all of us — should read this Jeff Passan piece on the challenges that lie ahead for the righthander and the ways he’s already beaten the odds.

Hierarchy remains: *Soria | Jones | Rondon.
* = closer-by-committee

April 24, 2018
Chicago White Sox — Chris Beck earned a three-inning save, the first of his career, in a 10-4 White Sox win last night.

Hierarchy remains: *Soria | Jones | Rondon.
* = closer-by-committee

April 22, 2018
Chicago White Sox — Danny Farquhar suffered a brain hemorrhage during the game on Friday.  Our thoughts and prayers are with Danny and his family.

Updated hierarchy: *Soria | Jones | Rondon.
* = closer-by-committee

April 12, 2018
Chicago White Sox — Nate Jones grabbed a save Wednesday, confirming our suspicions that this situation is still fluid. Jones had a great spring, but his truly impressive injury history — which includes Tommy John surgery, an outpatient operation on his back, and surgery to reposition the nerves in his throwing elbow — makes him a risky bet.

Hierarchy remains: *Soria | Jones | Farquhar.
* = closer-by-committee

April 8, 2018
Chicago White Sox – Juan Minaya walked all four batters he faced on Saturday and got sent down after the game.  Veteran Danny Farquhar should take over the seventh inning duties ahead of Nate Jones and Joakim Soria.

Hierarchy remains: *Soria | Jones | Farquhar.
* = closer-by-committee

April 6, 2018
Chicago White Sox – For the third consecutive opportunity, Joakim Soria – and not Nate Jones – got the chance to close out the game. He failed to do so on Thursday, however, allowing three runs in the ninth to tie the game. Jones allowed a run himself in the eighth inning. So what do we make of all this? We’re not removing the committee tag yet, but Soria is likely to continue gathering the bulk of the save chances.

Hierarchy remains: *Soria | Jones | Minaya.
* = closer-by-committee

April 1, 2018
Chicago White Sox – Joakim Soria picked up the first save of the season for the White Sox yesterday.  Soria worked around a hit and a walk to throw a scoreless ninth inning.  Nate Jones struck out two in a scoreless eighth inning.  It is worth noting that the Royals had 3-4-5 in their order due up in the eighth so Jones had the tougher assignment.  At this point, we will leave the committee tag up there with Soria on top.

Hierarchy remains: *Soria | Jones | Minaya.
* = closer-by-committee

March 12, 2018
Chicago White Sox – The closer gig on the South Side — seemingly in the hands of Joakim Soria at the outset of camp — has turned into a full out competition thanks his bumbling spring (2 IP, 7 H, 4 ER, 0 K) and the re-emergence of Nate Jones, who has put together a sterling line in the exhibitions thus far (4 IP, 0 ER, 2 H, 5 K, 0 BB). The Chicago Tribune speculates that Jones has actually done enough to take the lead, while other sources are less committal, but we consider this a full tossup, with the remaining spring outings to be the likely determinant to who lands this job.

Updated hierarchy: *Soria | Jones | Minaya.
* = closer-by-committee

February 26, 2018
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox have a few different options for closer to start the season.  Veteran closer Joakim Soria was signed this offseason and would be happy to accept the job.  Juan Minaya finished last year as the closer, including converting all six of his save chances in September.  Nate Jones was stellar in 2016, but missed most of last season with injuries.  Jones says that he will be ready for opening day, and should challenge for the role if healthy.  We think Soria gets the first shot at closing, but one long shot to keep an eye out for is Thyago Vieira, who can touch 102 with his fastball.

Starting 2018 hierarchy: Soria | Minaya | Jones.
Holds candidates: Minaya, Jones, Luis Avilan.

October 1, 2017
Chicago White Sox – Juan Minaya picked up his ninth save of the season on Saturday night.  Minaya was a perfect 6-for-6 on save chances in the month of September, and after struggling with walks in August, he only gave up two walks in September.  A lot can happen in the offseason, but with Minaya getting more comfortable in the ninth inning, he could be an option to close for the White Sox in 2018.

Hierarchy remains: Minaya | Farquhar | Alburquerque.

September 23, 2017
Chicago White Sox – Al Alburquerque picked up his first hold for the White Sox since coming over from Kansas City. This is more due to lack of opportunities than it is to poor pitching, as he’s only given up 1 run in September. Alburquerque got the last out of the 8th inning before Juan Minaya picked up his 6th save on a classic 9-2-3-6 double play. Minaya has solidified himself as the best pitcher in the White Sox bullpen, but Alburquerque has pitched directly ahead of Minaya in his last two outings. That’s enough to bump Greg Infante off the hierarchy.

Updated hierarchy: Minaya | Farquhar | Alburquerque.

September 3, 2017
Chicago White Sox — Juan Minaya picked up the save yesterday, his fourth since Tyler Clippard was traded in mid-August.  Minaya is clearly the closer for the White Sox right now so we will drop the asterisk, but we will see how long that lasts.  On Thursday, he blew the save by giving up two runs on two hits, two walks, and a walk off HBP with the bases loaded.  Last night, he picked up right where he left off by hitting the first batter of the inning and then giving up two hits to load the bases with no outs.  Minaya was able to get a double play and a strike out to convert the save last night, but if he keeps pitching like that, he might not be closing for long.  Danny Farquhar has a win and two holds in six appearances since joining the White Sox, and the veteran looks to be next in line for saves if Minaya struggles.

Updated hierarchy: Minaya | Farquhar | Infante.

August 21, 2017
Chicago White Sox — Juan Minaya still looks like the man to own for the White Sox, but he’s not making things easy. After Aaron Bummer walked a man on four pitches, in came Minaya. He walked the next guy, induced a double play, then gave up a two-run homer, but managed to retire Elvis Andrus to nail down a rocky save. Meanwhile, Gregory Infante has begun to get late-inning looks in a setup role, and the newly promoted Danny Farquhar is also someone to watch — last night he pitched a scoreless seventh.

Updated hierarchy: *Minaya | Bummer | Infante.
* = closer-by-committee

August 19, 2017
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox bullpen finally managed to pull out a save last night, and you can thank Juan Minaya for that. Earlier in the game, Aaron Bummer pitched out of a two-on, one out jam in arguably the highest-leverage spot. Although Bummer also had a runner score, he’s still a better option than Jake Petricka and his 9.00 ERA and 2.05 WHIP. If you’re desperate enough for saves to look at the second option in Chicago, we think it’s Bummer.

Updated hierarchy: *Minaya | Bummer | Petricka.
* = closer-by-committee

August 17, 2017
Chicago White Sox — Things are getting really sad in the White Sox bullpen, guys. No one on the active roster has a save, a streak that was prolonged against the odds Wednesday night. With a two-run lead, Juan Minaya retired the last two men in the eighth on seven pitches. Rather than letting him go for a five-out save, Rick Renteria trotted out Gregory Infante, who induced a flyout. But when a pinch hitter was announced, Renteria pulled Infante for lefty Aaron Bummer — then yanked Bummer in favor of Jake Petricka after he gave up a single. Three line drives later, it was another walk-off for LA. Petricka has given up eight runs this month and has as many baserunners allowed as outs recorded (16). We still think Minaya has the best stuff, but if you’re this desperate for saves, troll for eighth-inning guys, stream our VSW picks, something, anything but this! Don’t own a White Sox reliever!

Hierarchy remains: *Minaya | Petricka | Bummer.
* = closer-by-committee

August 16, 2017
Chicago White Sox — Prior to Tuesday’s tilt with the Dodgers, Rick Renteria said that he plans to give different guys chances to prove themselves. Some proved themselves better than others. In a 1-1 game, Juan Minaya got through the seventh and allowed a hit to the only batter he faced in the eighth. Aaron Bummer was next, and he induced a fielder’s choice before walking the next two guys. On came Jake Petricka, who got the second out but followed that with a HBP and three singles to blow the game wide open. Based on usage, Petricka was probably going to get the first save chance if Chicago grabbed a lead, but after Tuesday’s troubles it may be Minaya after all. If you’re looking for reliable options here, good luck.

Hierarchy remains: *Minaya | Petricka | Bummer.
* = closer-by-committee

August 13, 2017
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox traded Tyler Clippard to the Astros late Sunday night, further depleting an already barren bullpen. It will be a fluid situation that we’ll continue to monitor, but for now we like Juan Minaya to head a committee that also includes Jake Petricka and Aaron Bummer.

Updated hierarchy: *Minaya | Petricka | Bummer.
* = closer-by-committee

July 28, 2017
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox continued to hemorrhage their bullpen Thursday, trading Dan Jennings to the Tampa Bay Rays. What’s left? The newly activated Jake Petricka, the only reliever on the opening day roster still with the team, may be in the mix for saves soon.

Updated hierarchy: *Clippard | Minaya | Petricka.
* = closer-by-committee

July 27, 2017
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox activated Jake Petricka from the DL on Wednesday. Rick Renteria said that Petricka could be an option in the late innings. Petricka hasn’t pitched since a disastrous outing on June 28, so we’ll see just how quickly Renteria throws Petricka into the fire.

Hierarchy remains: *Clippard | Jennings | Minaya.
* = closer-by-committee

July 26, 2017
Chicago White Sox — Hey White Sox fans, did you like that clean, drama-free save from Anthony Swarzak the other night? Too bad! With Swarzak headed up I-94 to Milwaukee, it’s Tyler Clippard time again — or whatever gallimaufry of negative-WAR relievers Rick Renteria has left to compose a committee. For second in line behind Clippard and Dan Jennings right now, we’ll put our marker on Juan Minaya, who’s had some bad luck (.333 BABIP, 13% HR/FB), but boasts the best K-rate of anyone on the current roster of mismatched Sox. Recently signed Danny Farquhar could be in the hierarchy very soon.

Updated hierarchy: *Clippard | Jennings | Minaya.
* = closer-by-committee

July 25, 2017
Chicago White Sox – Anthony Swarzak finished off the 8th inning last night, then stayed on to pick up his first career save. Five days ago, Rick Renteria named Tyler Clippard his new closer after David Robertson was dealt to the Yankees. But after two shaky outings, Renteria now seems to be leaning toward Swarzak, saying after yesterday’s game that he went with the guy pitching the best right now. This looks like a committee going forward, with Swarzak in the lead after his outing yesterday. Swarzak, however, has thrown 94(!) pitches over the last four days; all three of his outings crossed multiple innings. He’ll need the day off today, and might get Wednesday off as well.

Updated hierarchy: *Swarzak | Clippard | Jennings.
* = closer-by-committee

July 24, 2017
Chicago White Sox – Dating back to July 12, when his ERA was 1.73, Tyler Clippard has given up 16 earned runs in 10.2 innings. He didn’t add to that total yesterday, as he only faced one batter and allowed a walkoff base hit, but that now makes two bad appearances for his new team. If the White Sox succeed in trading Anthony Swarzak, we don’t know what’s going to become of the closer position, but lefty Dan Jennings might be worth an add if you have the roster space.

Hierarchy remains: Clippard | Swarzak | Jennings.

July 22, 2017
Chicago White Sox —  Tyler Clippard’s first appearance with the White Sox didn’t go as planned. Entering a tie game in the tenth inning, he loaded the bases with no outs, taking the loss on a sacrifice fly. If Clippard isn’t more effective in Chicago than he was in New York, he won’t be the closer for long.

Hierarchy remains: Clippard | Swarzak | Jennings.

July 19, 2017
Chicago White Sox — Both David Robertson and Tommy Kahnle were traded to the Yankees late Tuesday night, with Tyler Clippard part of the package that came back to the White Sox. Clippard has struggled lately, but he has experience as a closer and is likely to take over the ninth inning for Chicago. Anthony Swarzak will be next in line for save chances if he also doesn’t eventually get traded.

Updated hierarchy: Clippard | Swarzak | Jennings.

July 3, 2017
Chicago White Sox — David Robertson — currently ranked #20 in Jon Heyman’s assessment of trade chips — will be off the next three days welcoming his second child. Tommy Kahnle should get any save chances against Oakland.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Kahnle | Swarzak.

May 5, 2017
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox got some tough news Thursday, as righty Nate Jones was placed on the 10-day disabled list (retroactive to May 1) with elbow neuritis. Expect Anthony Swarzak (0.00 ERA, two holds, just three hits and one walk allowed in 14 innings with 16 Ks) to get more looks in the late innings.

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Kahnle | Swarzak.

April 23, 2017
Chicago White Sox – Dan Jennings hasn’t gotten a hold yet this season, and pitched the 5th inning yesterday with the White Sox trailing. It’s a little hard to guess how this bullpen would shake out if both David Robertson and set-up man Nate Jones were to go down, but right now we’ll give the edge to Tommy Kahnle, who throws hard and has seen some late-inning work recently.

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Jones | Kahnle.

February 27, 2017
Chicago White Sox – As of right now, the White Sox still have David Robertson as their closer.  However, with the White Sox in rebuilding mode, Robertson has been the subject of trade rumors.  Nate Jones and Dan Jennings, Chicago’s primary seventh and eighth inning men from last year, will return in 2017.  Jones had stellar numbers last season, as he finished with 80 Ks in 70.2 innings and a WHIP of 0.89, and should take over as closer if Robertson is dealt.  Another name to keep in the back of your mind is Zack Burdi, who is seen as the closer of the future.

Starting 2017 hierarchy: Robertson | Jones | Jennings.

September 5, 2016
Chicago White Sox – After almost every other arm in the White Sox bullpen had been used, Tommy Kahnle came on for the save in the 12th inning, and converted. He does not factor in to the White Sox usual late inning plans.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Jones | Jennings.

August 30, 2016
Chicago White Sox — The major league leader in blown saves is Nate Jones, who suffered his ninth on Monday night. It’s mostly been a matter of bad timing, however; his 0.93 WHIP and 3.25 FIP don’t point to any significant problems.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Jones | Jennings.

August 11, 2016
Chicago White Sox — In his last six outings, Matt Albers has given up nine runs in 6.2 IP, and he took the loss in the 14th last night. Pitching two scoreless innings ahead of him was Dan Jennings, who gave up a leadoff triple in the 13th, then struck out the side.

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Jones | Jennings.

August 10, 2016
Chicago White Sox – After a David Robertson blown save, Lieutenant Dan Jennings recorded the final out of the 10th inning to pick up his first career save. And hopefully some ice cream.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Jones | Albers.

August 1, 2016
Chicago White Sox – The Cardinals acquired Zach Duke yesterday, and while the lefty will have to do some work to crack the St. Louis hierarchy, he does leave a hole in the Chicago bullpen. Look for Matt Albers to get more holds as as result.

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Jones | Albers.

July 25, 2016
Chicago White Sox – It was an eventful day for the White Sox bullpen, especially for closer David Robertson, who managed to pick up wins in both Saturday’s suspended game and Sunday. In the first game — in which the White Sox started Matt Albers in place of the suspended Chris Sale and followed him with five other relievers — Robertson did his job, keeping the game tied in the 9th inning and earning the victory when the White Sox walked off. In the second game, he did the opposite of his job, allowing three home runs and blowing the game, only to pick up the win when the White Sox rallied — a first in the modern era. Baseball is strange.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Jones | Duke.

July 22, 2016
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox are quickly slipping out of contention, and rumors are flying that the team is listening to offers for closer David Robertson, who is owed $29.45 million through the end of the 2018 season. With the deadline less than two weeks away, stay tuned.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Jones | Duke.

July 10, 2016
Chicago White Sox — With David Robertson unavailable, Nate Jones got four outs to record his third save of the season.  Robertson will be out until after the All-Star break, and Jones should continue to close while he is out.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Jones | Duke.

June 30, 2016
Chicago White Sox — Nate Jones earned a save by retiring one batter with the tying run at the plate, avoiding the indignity of Chicago losing a game they led 9-1 at the start of the ninth.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Jones | Duke.

June 23, 2016
Chicago White Sox — The Vulture Save Watch nailed Zach Duke’s first save of the season, as David Robertson and Nate Jones rested.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Jones | Duke.

June 9, 2016
Chicago White Sox — Chicago has lost 12 of their last 14, and David Robertson has suffered from a lack of regular use. In his first action since last Wednesday, he came in with the Sox down seven in the eighth, and immediately boosted the lead into double digits. If the team keeps struggling, there could be another summer of Robertson trade rumors ahead.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Jones | Duke.

May 29, 2016
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox blew a six run lead in the ninth inning yesterday.  David Robertson got the call to start the inning, as he hadn’t pitched since May 23rd and only had three appearances since May 9th.  It began well, with Robertson striking out the first batter, but it unraveled quickly from there.  Six of the next seven batters reached and Robertson was pulled with the score 7-6.  Tommy Kahnle came on and immediately gave up a game tying double, followed by two walks and a walk-off single.  It was a rough day, to say the least, but it shouldn’t impact the White Sox late inning bullpen plans moving forward.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Jones | Duke.

April 25, 2016
Chicago White Sox – Zach Duke had been used more like a LOOGY in the early going — he didn’t pitch a full inning in any of his first six outings — but he’s now had five straight outings where he’s gone an inning or more, including Sunday, when he pitched the 7th ahead of Nate Jones and David Robertson. Look to him as a possible source of holds going forward.

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Jones | Duke.

April 20, 2016
Chicago White Sox — Nate Jones earned the first save of his career thanks to a pair of scoreless innings in a 5-0 victory.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Jones | Albers.

April 16, 2016
Chicago White Sox — Chris Sale pitched a complete game shutout on Friday night, but Jake Petricka was ready to come in if Sale had needed help. We expected David Robertson to get the day off, but Petricka — who has always had control issues — was a bit of a surprise. He’s not in the hierarchy now, but we’ll keep an eye on it.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Jones | Albers.

February 29, 2016
Chicago White Sox – The back end of the White Sox bullpen settled into a nice groove at the end of last season and the good news is that all of the key members will be returning for 2016.  David Robertson has established himself as a solid closer, with the potential to be elite, after he finished last season with a WHIP under 1.00 and 86 Ks in only 63.1 innings.  Flamethrower Nate Jones pitched well after returning toward the end of last season, and has been impressive so far this spring.  Matt Albers re-signed after a successful first year with the White Sox and should slot into the late innings too.  Zach Duke could see time in the later innings as well, as a situational lefty.

Starting 2016 hierarchy: Robertson | Jones | Albers.
Holds candidates: Jones, Albers, Zach Duke.

October 3, 2015
Chicago White Sox – Matt Albers got the 8th inning ahead of David Robertson on Friday night, pitching a clean frame to earn his 6th hold and lower his ERA to 1.21. Nate Jones, meanwhile, hasn’t pitched in over a week.

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Albers | Jones.

September 30, 2015
Chicago White Sox — Matt Albers has quietly put together a streak of 21.1 scoreless innings since Aug. 5, which is the longest active streak in baseball. He earned his fourth hold in as many appearances on Tuesday, and has now moved ahead of Zach Duke.

Updated Hierarchy: Robertson | Jones | Albers.

September 18, 2015
Chicago White Sox — Staked to a 2-1 lead in the ninth inning on Thursday, closer David Robertson gave up a three-run home run of sorts to Billy Butler (I bet Avisail Garcia wishes he had that one back) for his seventh blown save. Robertson has allowed seven runs (five earned) in the last four days, and could need a night off to clear his head.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Jones | Duke.

August 17, 2015
Chicago White Sox – Nate Jones got the 8th inning in a 3-run game on Sunday, striking out the side ahead of David Robertson. Jones has been electric since returning to the big leagues, and has shown that he still has “closer-in-waiting” stuff. Look for him to share 8th inning duties with Zach Duke going forward — if Jones hasn’t passed him already, that is.

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Jones | Duke.

August 11, 2015
Chicago White Sox – Nate Jones continues to impress in Chicago. The flame-throwing right-hander pitched 1.2 innings to close out the game for Chris Sale last night. Jones was given plenty of breathing room, but we expect him to get work in higher leverage spots in the near future.

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Duke | Jones.

August 8, 2015
Chicago White Sox — For the first time since April 2014, Nate Jones appeared in a major league game, notching two strikeouts in a perfect inning. Jones was hitting 100 MPH during his rehab appearances, and could challenge for a high-leverage role almost immediately.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Duke | Petricka.

June 24, 2015
Chicago White Sox — Jake Petricka finished the 8th inning with a two-run lead, and when the White Sox ran the lead to four in the top of the 9th, he stayed on to pick up the save. Robertson was available, but the lack of a new save opportunity kept him out of this one.

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Duke | Petricka.

May 29, 2015
Chicago White Sox — Before Thursday’s doubleheader with the Orioles, manager Robin Ventura expressed support for closer David Robertson, who has allowed six earned runs in his last eight outings. With Robertson unavailable, the White Sox turned to Zach Duke, as predicted in Thursday’s VSW, in the first game. Duke got the last out in the eighth and the first two in the ninth before allowing a two-run home run to Chris Davis. In relief of Duke came old friend Jake Petricka, who got the final out to earn his first save of the season. Petricka has moved ahead of Dan Jennings, who allowed three hits and a run with the team behind in game two. Jennings has had a difficult time adjusting to his unprecedented dual role as White Sox reliever and Marlins manager, with a 8.31 ERA and a 1.38 WHIP since the move was made on May 18.

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Duke | Petricka.

May 16, 2015
Chicago White Sox — Chicago had Thursday off, but it was Zach Duke, not David Robertson, called on for the save late Friday night, with Zach Putnam warming behind him. Duke escaped when the tying run became the final out, in a classic 8-6-3-5-2 rundown after a double. After early speculation about a possible injury, Robin Ventura explained that he wanted another day of rest for Robertson, who made four appearances in the five days prior (70 pitches).

Hierarchy remains: Robertson | Duke | Jennings.

May 1, 2015
Chicago White Sox – In a meaningless, no-pressure spot in the ninth inning Thursday night, Jake Petricka allowed three runs on four hits to balloon his ERA to 7.20. Robin Ventura could continue to give Petricka a breather from the high-pressure situations. Look for Dan Jennings to fill in more in the late innings, as he has become a reliable arm in the pen (BAA of .147 in 9 appearances).

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Duke | Jennings.

April 27, 2015
Chicago White Sox — After making some mechanical adjustments recently, Jake Petricka was used in a tight seventh, and should continue to get important innings for the Sox.

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Duke | Petricka.

April 15, 2015
Chicago White Sox – Dan Jennings has picked up back-to-back holds for the White Sox after some early struggles. He’s tied with teammate Zach Duke and a host of others for the AL lead in holds now and seems to be favored at this point over Javy Guerra.

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Duke | Jennings.

April 12, 2015
Chicago White Sox – Zach Duke picked up his second straight 8th inning hold on Sunday. The White Sox have been wise to make good on their offseason investment (3 years, $15M), as Duke has been one of the only reliable arms in the Chicago bullpen thus far. Would-be set-up man Zach Putnam has struggled out of the gate (4 ERs in 2 innings) after struggling during the spring (9.35 ERA) and might be looking at a trip to the minors if he can’t sort things out soon.

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Duke | Guerra.

March 31, 2015
Chicago White Sox – Jake Petricka has been battling forearm and elbow soreness for the past week and will open the season on the disabled list. Petricka was the heavy favorite to set up for David Robertson (who was battling a sore forearm himself earlier this spring), and the White Sox may have to mix and match until his return. Zach Putnam has had an awful spring, though he’s come around as of late; given his brief experience in the closer role, we’ll move him to first in line by default. Javy Guerra and Zach Duke will likely see their roles increase as well.

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Putnam | Guerra.

March 6, 2015
Chicago White Sox – Chicago’s bullpen was a mess right from the start in 2014. To ensure that didn’t happen again, the Sox went out and signed former Yankees closer David Robertson. Jake Petricka and Zach Putnam, who split the closer’s job at the end of 2014, should slide into set-up roles in front of Robertson. The White Sox also added veteran lefty Zach Duke in the off-season, and he could see some time in the later innings.

Starting 2015 hierarchy: Robertson | Petricka | Putnam.
Holds candidates: Petricka, Putnam.

September 28, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Javy Guerra picked up his first save of the season last night.  Jake Petricka started the 9th inning, but left with a lower back injury.  Guerra was able to come on and get the last three outs for a White Sox win on a night when they honored retiring Paul Konerko.

Hierarchy remains: Petricka | Putnam | Guerra.

September 24, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Jake Petricka gave back a game to the Tigers in the bottom of the ninth last night, but Robin Ventura and the White Sox brass still like him to close, both now and perhaps next year.

Hierarchy remains: Petricka | Putnam | Guerra.

September 20, 2014
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox brought closer Jake Petricka on to get the last two outs in the 8th.  Lefty Eric Surkamp got the first out of the 9th, and then Zach Putnam recorded the last two outs to pick up the save.

Hierarchy remains: Petricka | Putnam | Guerra.

September 20, 2014
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox brought closer Jake Petricka on to get the last two outs in the 8th.  Lefty Eric Surkamp got the first out of the 9th, and then Zach Putnam recorded the last two outs to pick up the save.

Hierarchy remains: Petricka | Putnam | Guerra.

September 17, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Zach Putnam earned his fifth save on Tuesday while Jake Petricka stood by if needed. Petricka blew a save on Monday, and Chicago’s bullpen remains in flux.

Hierarchy remains: Petricka | Putnam | Guerra.

August 31, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Jake Petricka gave up a hit and a walk in the 9th inning yesterday but was still able to record his 10th save of the season.  Meanwhile, Zach Putnam pitched a perfect 8th against the Tigers 4-5-6 hitters and hasn’t given up any runs in August.  It looks like Petricka is still the closer for now but Putnam is right there if Petricka slips up.

Hierarchy remains: Petricka | Putnam | Guerra.

August 28, 2014
Chicago White Sox — One day after Jake Petricka’s second straight blown save sent him to the Hot Seat, Robin Ventura tried to squeeze a two-inning save out of Javy Guerra. When Guerra hit a batter with his 33rd pitch, putting two men on with two out, it was Zach Putnam summoned for the one-out, three-pitch save. Ventura didn’t say much after the game — the link to his postgame news conference almost immediately sent viewers to a test pattern — but earlier Wednesday, he put his struggling bullpen on notice that results will be required of anyone expecting to return next year. We won’t elevate Putnam or anyone else to the top spot without more info, but we will give Petricka his closer committee asterisk back. If Ventura does make a change, we expect the chances to be split among Putnam, Guerra, Petricka, and Matt Lindstrom, in that pecking order.

Updated hierarchy: Petricka | Putnam | Guerra.

August 27, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Jake Petricka blew his second straight save on Tuesday, and the last five batters he’s faced have scratched out two doubles, two home runs, and an intentional walk. There are three other guys in the White Sox bullpen who have at least three saves this year, so Petricka can’t afford too many more nights like this.

Hierarchy remains: Petricka | Putnam | Lindstrom.
Jake Petricka to Hot Seat.

August 13, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Matt Lindstrom was activated from the disabled list on Tuesday; although Jake Petricka will retain the closer role, Robin Ventura indicated that Lindstrom will be used in high-leverage spots going forward. Just to make things interesting, Petricka blew Tuesday night’s save and needed Zach Putnam’s help to escape without a loss.

Updated hierarchy: Petricka | Putnam | Lindstrom.

August 9, 2014
Chicago White Sox – Although Zach Putnam and Jake Petricka were splitting saves prior to Putnam going on the DL, manager Robin Ventura has said that Petricka will remain the primary closer even though Putnam has returned from his injury.

Hierarchy remains: Petricka | Putnam | Belisario.

August 8, 2014
Chicago White Sox – Zach Putnam was activated from the disabled list following Thursday’s game, though Robin Ventura hasn’t specified what his role will be yet. Jake Petricka has done a serviceable, though not spectacular, job as the full-time closer in Putnam’s absence, so Putnam could return to his pre-injury role of splitting save chances. More likely, though, is that Ventura starts Putnam off in a few non-save situations to gauge the righty’s effectiveness, with the potential of moving him back in to the 9th inning if he proves himself healthy. Also of note on the South Side, Matt Lindstrom, who started the year as the closer, is about a week from returning.

Updated hierarchy: Petricka | Putnam | Belisario.

August 6, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Down 15 in the ninth, Robin Ventura summoned the most expensive option he had: Adam “Big Donkey” Dunn. The active leader in striking out couldn’t induce one of his own, but managing to hold a team to one run in an inning deserves a commendation by White Sox standards. Meanwhile, Zach Putnam joined Matt Lindstrom in Charlotte on injury rehab.

Hierarchy remains: Petricka | Belisario | Guerra.

August 4, 2014
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox bullpen on Sunday gave up 15 runs in 4 innings — and they were all earned. I’m not even mad. That’s amazing.

Hierarchy remains: Petricka | Belisario | Guerra.

August 3, 2014
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox had to call on Jake Petricka in the 8th inning last night trying to hold on to a one run lead.  He came on with two runners on and got the first man to ground out before giving up a go-ahead two run double.  Petricka was charged with a blown save but before the game Robin Ventura said that he has been impressed with Petricka in the closer’s role.  Matt Lindstrom, or Linstrom as the Charlotte Knights like to call him, threw an inning on Friday night and is expected to pitch every other day and could return to the White Sox as early as Thursday.

Hierarchy remains: Petricka | Belisario | Guerra.

July 31, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Nate Jones suffered a UCL tear during rehab from his back surgery; after undergoing Tommy John surgery on Tuesday, he is expected to be out for the next 12 to 18 months. Matt Lindstrom starts a rehab assignment on Friday.

Hierarchy remains: Petricka | Belisario | Guerra.

July 24, 2014
Chicago White Sox — With today’s news that Zach Putnam is headed to the disabled list with shoulder inflammation, Jake Petricka went, by default, from part-time closer to full-time closer. He responded well in his first save chance on Thursday night, striking out two in a perfect inning, and has the chance to seize the role for good ahead of Putnam’s (and Matt Lindstrom’s and Nate Jones’s) return.

Updated hierarchy: Petricka | Belisario | Guerra.

July 24, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Chicago’s bullpen may soon become crowded if Nate Jones and Matt Lindstrom can return as planned early next month. Jones has been throwing on flat ground for some time now. Lindstrom will pitch batting practice this weekend, then start a minor league rehab assignment if all goes well.

Hierarchy remains: Putnam | Petricka | Belisario.

July 22, 2014
Chicago White Sox – Chicago’s closer committee continued to chug along on Monday, as Jake Petricka got the save after Zach Putnam had converted the previous two chances. Additionally, displaced closer Ronald Belisario has shined since the All-Star break, having picked up three holds in three opportunities, including one on Monday night. All three holds have come in the eighth inning, and he’s pitched his way back into the conversation should Petricka and Putnam be unavailable.

Updated hierarchy: Putnam | Petricka | Belisario.

July 20, 2014
Chicago White Sox – Zach Putnam got the save on Friday, so it was Jake Petricka’s turn to try for the last three outs on Saturday. But Petricka was only able to get two of those outs, also allowing a hit and a walk before being yanked by Robin Ventura — Putnam would strike out the game’s final hitter to earn the save. With two saves in two days, and an uncomfortably quick hook on Petricka, Putnam has inched to the top of the White Sox closer-by-committee.

Updated hierarchy: Putnam | Petricka | Guerra.

July 19, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Zach Putnam got the first save opportunity coming out of the All-Star break and converted for his third save of the season.  It’s hard to read too much into one game, especially with the way Robin Ventura has been using his relievers recently, but it looks like we are back to Putnam and Petricka sharing the closing duties for now.

Updated hierarchy: Petricka | Putnam | Guerra.

July 15, 2014
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox aren’t very good and nobody wants what Robin Ventura is selling in the late innings. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: None

July 13, 2014
Chicago White Sox — After yesterday’s game, it looks like Jake Petricka is moving towards becoming the closer of the White Sox.  His main competition, Zach Putnam, was brought on in the 6th inning and gave up 3 hits and a run in his 1.1 innings of work.  Petricka was saved for the 9th inning and, although it wasn’t a save opportunity after the White Sox scored 3 runs in the top of the 9th, he pitched a perfect inning with one strikeout.  This still could be a committee but Petricka is, at the very least, the top of the committee at this point.

Updated hierarchy: Petricka | Guerra | Putnam.

July 10, 2014
Chicago White Sox — The Sox bullpen ruined a strong outing from would-be All-Star Chris Sale on Wednesday. Entering with two outs in the eighth, Jake Petricka gave up three hits and a walk without retiring a batter; after Javy Guerra got out of that jam, he came back out for the ninth and blew the save. Post-game criticism centered on Ventura’s decision to pull Sale, and with Chicago’s bullpen, that second-guessing seems pretty reasonable.

Hierarchy remains: Putnam | Petricka | Guerra.

July 7, 2014
Chicago White Sox – Robin Ventura has said that he’s going to wait for someone to emerge in the White Sox closer by committee, and on Sunday, Jake Petricka did an awful lot of emerging. Mixing in a 98 mph fastball, struck out two hitters in two perfect innings, picking up his third save of the year. It’s hard to know what to make of this appearance, as Zach Putnam was unavailable and Javy Guerra was warming up in the 9th inning. Additionally, Petricka’s ratios are still kind of terrible (48.2 IPs, 36 Ks, 24 BBs). But Sunday’s outing stretched his scoreless streak to 12 consecutive innings, and he’s now neck and neck with Putnam for save chances in Chicago.

Hierarchy remains: Putnam | Petricka | Guerra.

July 6, 2014
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox took a 2 run lead in the bottom of the 8th inning yesterday and then brought on lefty Eric Surkamp to start the 9th inning.  He walked the only batter he faced before Zach Putnam came on to try and close it out.  Putnam gave up a sacrifice fly and then back to back two-out singles to allow the Mariners to tie the game.  Manager Robin Ventura said after the game that he is going to keep using different people until somebody emerges.  It seems likely somebody else gets a shot at the next save opportunity, but, even with the blown save yesterday, Putnam seems like the best bet overall for saves in the White Sox bullpen.

Hierarchy remains: Putnam | Petricka | Guerra.

June 30, 2014
Chicago White Sox – We’re paying close attention to the White Sox, who on Sunday used Jake Petricka to protect a 4-run 9th inning lead. Robin Ventura keeps saying that he isn’t ready to name a new closer yet, but based on the last several days, Zach Putnam and Petricka continue to look like the two main options.

Hierarchy remains: Putnam | Petricka | Guerra.

June 29, 2014
Chicago White Sox – Zach Putnam recorded his first career save on Saturday.  He got the last out of the 8th inning and then came back out for the 9th to finish the game.  Putnam has been effective against both righties and lefties this season so we think he is the best option to close games.  However, Jake Petricka was warming up in the bullpen in the 9th inning yesterday and Robin Ventura has said they will mix and match so this is still very much a committee.  We will move Putnam to the top of the committee but it could be anybody getting the next save opportunity.

Updated hierarchy: Putnam | Petricka | Guerra.

June 28, 2014
Chicago White Sox – Jake Petricka came on to get the last two outs of the 9th inning and preserve a White Sox win.  After the game Robin Ventura said they don’t have a closer right now.  He did mention that Petricka would be used in the later innings but that it could be a tight spot in the 7th or 8th and not always the 9th inning.  It sounds like a committee right now but we will continue to monitor this to see if anybody emerges as the primary closer.

Updated hierarchy: Petricka | Putnam | Guerra.

June 27, 2014
Chicago White Sox – Ronald Belisario could only get 1 out in the 9th inning on Friday night and after the game, Robin Ventura finally pulled the plug on the laboring righty.  The only person mentioned specifically as being “in the mix” for save opportunities is Jake Petricka — the man who bailed Belisario out on Friday.  We like Zach Putnam’s ratios a lot better, and Daniel Webb has carried the “future closer” tag for a while, but actually converting a save carries some weight.

Updated hierarchy: Petricka | Putnam | Guerra.

June 25, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Robin Ventura announced on Tuesday that he was sticking with Ronald Belisario as the White Sox closer despite his troubles — which include 11 earned runs over 11 IP in his 13 appearances in the role. Although Belisario’s peripherals strongly suggest that he’s pitched better than his stats, general manager Rick Hahn made a point of telling the Chicago Tribune that Ventura is free to be “more flexible” in his approach to the ninth, mentioning Zach Putnam, Javy Guerra, and Daniel Webb as options.

Hierarchy remains: Belisario | Putnam | Petricka.

June 10, 2014
Chicago White Sox – Zach Putnam got the final two outs of the 8th inning on Monday, marking the fourth straight time that he’d bridged the gap to Ronald Belisario.  The 26-year-old righty doesn’t have the best ratios in the world (19 Ks vs 9 BBs in 24.1 innings), but he keeps the ball in the ballpark and it’s hard to find fault with his 1.48 ERA.  Though Belisario continues to make his owners a bit nervous, Putnam and Jake Petricka (1.59 ERA) have turned into a solid late-inning duo for Chicago.

Updated hierarchy: Belisario | Putnam | Petricka.

May 29, 2014
Chicago White Sox — After finally picking up a drama-free save on Tuesday, Ronald Belisario blew Wednesday’s save chance before salvaging a win after the Sox broke a 2-2 tie in the bottom half of the ninth. Manager Robin Ventura didn’t say anything after the game, but this was Belisario’s third blown save in six chances, so the current closer remains firmly in the hot seat. At least Ronald is having fun though.

Hierarchy remains: Belisario | Webb | Petricka.

May 28, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Jake Petricka pitched the seventh and eighth innings of a one-run game, then Ronald Belisario delivered a clean ninth for a pleasantly undramatic White Sox save.

Hierarchy remains: Belisario | Webb | Petricka.

May 27, 2014
Chicago White Sox — After Zach Putnam loaded the bases with a four-run lead in the eighth, Scott Downs came in and retired his fellow lefty, pinch-hitter Daniel Murphy. Downs stayed on to pitch the ninth and earn his first save of the year. As the only lefty in the White Sox pen, Downs is likely to see continued use in a matchup role.

Hierarchy remains: Belisario | Webb | Petricka.

May 25, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Ronald Belisario blew the save yesterday by allowing three runs in the 9th and now has given up at least 1 run in all three of his save chances.  Manager Robin Ventura never committed to Belisario as closer after Lindstrom’s injury and will likely consider other options after yesterday.  Daniel Webb or Jake Petricka could see the next save opportunity if Ventura wants to make a change.

Ronald Belisario to Hot Seat.

May 22, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Bad news for Matt Lindstrom Wednesday; the righthander will need surgery on his injured ankle and is unlikely to return before late August. In his absence, Robin Ventura has chosen Ronald Belisario and his speedy sinker as the team’s closer.

Hierarchy remains: Belisario | Webb | Petricka.

May 21, 2014
Chicago White Sox — After Jake Petricka pitched a solid seventh for the Sox, Chicago scored three runs in the top of the eighth — only to see Scott Downs and a horrid Frank Francisco give them right back. After Zach Putnam got out of the jam, it was indeed Ronald Belisario who got the first post-Lindstrom save chance. Belisario gave up one run (on a bizarre passed ball and a single through a shifted infield) before striking out Lorenzo Cain to clinch the win. He’s not likely to be able to go tomorrow, but he’s still our best bet for saves from this pen with Lindstrom out.

Hierarchy remains: Belisario | Webb | Petricka.

May 20, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Matt Lindstrom has been placed on the DL with an injured ankle; in his absence, the White Sox are likely to turn to a closer committee of Ronald Belisario (who hasn’t allowed a run in his last 12 outings), Daniel Webb (who has 17 walks in 17 games this year), and young Jake Petricka, who earned his first career save on Monday night. We like Belisario best going forward, but note that he did pitch two innings last night. If Robin Ventura is forced to use Frank Francisco in a high-leverage spot, he might wind up charging the mound again.

Updated hierarchy: Belisario | Webb | Petricka.

May 20, 2014
Chicago White SoxMatt Lindstrom limped off the field in the ninth inning of Monday’s 7-6 win after he appeared to injure his left ankle. Scott Downs and Jake Petricka combined to close the game, with Petricka picking up his first career save. Sox manager Robin Ventura gave no specifics on the injury, but did say that it “didn’t look good.” We expect Belisario and Webb to form a committee if Lindstrom is indeed headed to the disabled list, with Webb getting the first crack at a save due to Belisario pitching two innings on Monday.

Hierarchy remains: Lindstrom | Belisario | Webb.

May 14, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Hope you didn’t run out and buy that Frank Francisco White Sox jersey. In his second appearance of the year, he gave up three runs to Oakland, raising his ERA to 13.50. Meanwhile, Matt Lindstrom, who’s supposed to be the class of this outfit, pitched the eighth inning down nine runs and got tagged for two more.

Hierarchy remains: Lindstrom | Belisario | Webb.

May 11, 2014
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox have called up Frank Francisco.  Francisco was dominating Triple-A, having allowed 0 runs with 12 Ks in 8 innings.  Lindstrom has been solid as the closer recently, and it’s not clear how the White Sox will use Francisco immediately, but he could start seeing high-leverage situations if he can continue to pitch as well as he did in Charlotte.  No hierarchy change.

May 7, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Frank Francisco’s stats so far at AAA Charlotte: 7 IP, 4 H, 0 ER, 1 BB, 11 K. Don’t say we didn’t warn you. No hierarchy change.

May 4, 2014
Chicago White Sox – Nate Jones is going to have surgery on his lower back.  The White Sox have said this will not end his season, but this is not good news for those holding out hope that Jones would come back and take over as closer.  No hierarchy change.

April 26, 2014
Chicago White Sox – Despite four straight scoreless outings, Ronald Belisario still has an ERA over 7, thanks in large part to an April 9th appearance in Colorado where he gave up 5 runs while recording only one out.  But his recent stretch — almost all of which has come pitching ahead of Matt Lindstrom — has him in a position to see save opportunities if the closer continues to struggle.  Last night, Lindstrom entered in a 4-4  game in the 9th and gave up a 2-run bomb to Evan Longoria.  (He ended up getting the win after Jose Abreu hit a walk off grand slam in the bottom half.)  Lindstrom is already on the Hot Seat, and Belisario has become a sneaky add for those looking to speculate.  Hierarchy change: Ronald Belisario to Set-up, Daniel Webb to 2nd in line.

April 22, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Ronald Belisario got an inning-ending double play in the seventh before returning for the eighth to earn his third hold of the season. Maikel Cleto hasn’t pitched in five days, and Belisario has not allowed a run in each of his last two outings. Hierarchy change: Ronald Belisario to 2nd in line, replacing Maikel Cleto.

April 16, 2014
Chicago White Sox — The Sox signed ex-closer Frank Francisco on Monday and assigned him to their AAA team in Charlotte. With the struggles in the White Sox pen so far, Francisco has a good shot at being this year’s Kevin Gregg. That might be the saddest sentence I’ve ever typed. No hierarchy change.

April 11, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Other than Matt Lindstrom, who is entrenched as Chicago’s not-very-good closer, the White Sox bullpen has been a different animal almost every night this season.  Yesterday, it was Daniel Webb who bridged the gap to Lindstrom, throwing two perfect innings with 2 Ks.  Webb now has a 2.84 ERA, a 0.95 WHIP, and a 7/2 K/BB ratio this season.  As mentioned yesterday, Ronald Belisario is hurting and has an ERA in the teens. Hierarchy change: Daniel Webb to Set-up, replacing Ronald Belisario.

April 10, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Ronald Belisario entered a tie game with one on; he gave up five singles and wound up tagged for five runs. This probably wouldn’t be news if he hadn’t also left the game with tightness in his lower back. Maikel Cleto continues to pitch well and would probably slide into a set-up role if the injury is at all serious. Hierarchy change: Maikel Cleto to 2nd in line, replacing Daniel Webb.

April 5, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Nate Jones has been placed on the DL with a strained hip that is related to his injury during spring training.  Robin Ventura has said that Daniel Webb and Maikel Cleto will see time in the later innings. Hierarchy change: Daniel Webb to 2nd in line, Nate Jones to DL.

April 4, 2014
Chicago White Sox — It was a bad day for White Sox relievers: Nate Jones walked the two men he faced in the seventh, Maikel Cleto let them score, Ronald Belisario gave up a tying home run in the eighth, and Matt Lindstrom blew the save and got tagged for the loss in the ninth. He remains on the Hot Seat, while Jones has had a recurrence of his spring training gluteal strain. There are no good options for Robin Ventura at this point, and he could certainly do worse than Belisario. Hierarchy change: Ronald Belisario to Set-up, Nate Jones to 2nd in line.

March 31, 2014
Chicago White Sox – Crazy old Robin Ventura is going with Matt Lindstrom as his closer to start the year.  Nate Jones is still worth hanging on to for a while, in case Lindstrom has a tough start out of the gate. Also keep an eye on Ronald Belisario, who made his White Sox debut in the eighth inning yesterday. Hierarchy change: Matt Lindstrom to Closer, Nate Jones to Set-up.

March 31, 2014
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox apparently know who their closer is.  They just aren’t revealing it publicly yet.  The names that have been mentioned over the last several weeks are Nate Jones, Matt Lindstrom, and Daniel Webb, with Jones being considered the heavy favorite by most beat writers.  We’d like to say for certain that it’s one of those three, but two years ago, Robin Ventura started the season off by surprising everyone and using Hector Santiago as his closer.  We’ll monitor this situation throughout the day and will send an alert if anyone other than Jones is revealed to be the stopper.  No hierarchy change.

March 23, 2014
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox are not ready to name their closer yet.  Nate Jones has thrown five scoreless innings in spring training and still looks like the best bet to get the job.  However, Matt Lindstrom finally appears to be healthy and if youngster Daniel Webb is able to make the roster out of spring training, they could both challenge Jones.  Ronald Belisario could also factor into the late innings.  No hierarchy change.

March 13, 2014
Chicago White Sox — Nate Jones’s tremendous strikeout rate and breakout potential have made him a trendy sleeper. Ranked #23 in our preseason closer rankings.

March 9, 2014
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox traded their closer Addison Reed in the off-season and Robin Ventura has not announced who will take over his job for 2014.  Nate Jones and Matt Lindstrom seem to be the favorites for the job but both are battling injuries so far.  Jones should be the leading candidate, as he is 6 years younger, has a fastball in the upper 90s, and was 8th among relievers with 89 strikeouts last year.  However, Robin Ventura proved that he is unpredictable when he let Hector Santiago start out closing 2 years ago.  Rookie Daniel Webb could also be an option.  Starting 2014 hierarchy: Closer – Nate Jones, Set-up – Matt Lindstrom, 2nd in line – Daniel Webb.

August 11, 2013
Chicago White Sox – Nate Jones got the last two outs of the 7th and the first two outs of the 8th all via the strikeout on Saturday night.  He has 68 K’s in 59 innings this season while Matt Lindstrom only has 32 K’s against 22 walks on the season.  Hierarchy change: Nate Jones to Set-up, Matt Lindstrom to 2nd in line.

July 30, 2013
Chicago White Sox — Injured All-Star righthander Jesse Crain was traded to the Rays on Monday. No hierarchy change.

July 17, 2013
Chicago White Sox — With the White Sox languishing in the AL Central basement, Addison Reed could be traded if another team makes a great offer. If Reed does move, he’ll either take on a setup role (drastically decreasing his value) or close for a better team (mildly increasing it). On balance, we think the rest of this season will see a slight regression in Reed’s worth to you. Meanwhile, if Reed is traded, Matt Lindstrom will probably be the White Sox pitcher who benefits most. Jesse Crain could be in the mix also, once he returns from his injury, but (as noted in the link above) he’s even more likely to be flipped this month. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: BUY Matt Lindstrom, SELL Addison Reed.

July 13, 2013
Chicago White Sox – Matt Thornton has been traded to the Boston Red Sox.  Matt Lindstrom and Nate Jones should see time in the set-up role with Thornton gone.  Hierarchy change: Matt Lindstrom to Set-up, Nate Jones to 2nd in line.

July 9, 2013
Chicago White Sox — Matt Thornton, the subject of several recent trade rumors, was ineffective in a tied eighth inning on Monday night and caught the loss. No hierarchy change.

July 4, 2013
Chicago White Sox — The White Sox have placed Jesse Crain on the 15-day DL with a shoulder strain.  Matt Lindstrom ended up taking the loss last night but he has pitched well so far this year and has picked up 9 holds.  He should see more time in the late innings while Crain is out. Hierarchy change: Matt Thornton to Set-up, Matt Lindstrom to 2nd in line, Jesse Crain to DL.

May 15, 2013
Chicago White Sox — Jesse Crain entered in the eighth inning to hold a two-run lead; he leads the league with 10 holds and has regularly performed in a set-up role over the last few weeks, while lefty Matt Thornton has been used more situationally. Hierarchy change: Jesse Crain to Set-up, replacing Matt Thornton.

April 7, 2013
Chicago White Sox — The Sox turned to Jesse Crain in a very important spot in the eighth inning on Saturday, and it seems that he has moved ahead of Matt Lindstrom in Chicago’s bullpen. Hierarchy change: Jesse Crain to 2nd in line, replacing Matt Lindstrom.

February 24, 2013
Chicago White Sox – Starting 2013 hierarchy: Closer- Addison Reed, Set-up- Matt Thornton, 2nd in line- Matt Lindstrom.

September 25, 2012
Chicago White Sox – After the White Sox grabbed the lead from the Indians in the bottom of the 8th, Robin Ventura sent lefty Matt Thornton out in a save situation in the 9th. Thornton gave up hits to two of the three batters he faced, so he was pulled for another lefty — Donnie Veal — who ultimately earned his first major league save. Although Addison Reed remains on the Hot Seat, it’s likely that this was just a reaction to an unexpected lead change. No hierarchy change.

September 19, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Matt Thornton pitched a clean 8th inning, then stayed on to face the first hitter of the 9th before giving way to Addison Reed, who recorded the final two outs. Thornton and Brett Myers are jockeying for the 8th inning role, but as a lefty, Thornton is probably more likely to pick up a random save here and there, given Robin Ventura’s recent tendency to play match-ups all the way through the 9th. Hierarchy change: Matt Thornton to Set-up, Brett Myers to 2nd in line.

September 16, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Addison Reed allowed three baserunners without recording an out on Saturday, and had to be bailed out by Matt Thornton, who picked up the save. Reed has now allowed multiple baserunners, and at least one run, in 7 of his last 9 appearances. Addison Reed to Hot Seat.

September 2, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Addison Reed pitched the 8th inning with the White Sox trailing 4-0, but he had not pitched since August 25. He is in no danger of losing his job, and was just getting some work in between save opportunities. No hierarchy change.

July 29, 2012

Chicago White Sox – Matt Thornton pitched the 9th inning in a four-run game yesterday, and has picked up two 7th-inning-or-later holds this week. Meanwhile, Jesse Crain has been a little shaky since returning from the DL, allowing 5 baserunners over 2.1 innings. Hierarchy change: Matt Thornton to 2nd in line, replacing Jesse Crain.

July 22, 2012
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox acquired Brett Myers from the Astros on Saturday, but Addison Reed will keep his job for the time being, said White Sox GM Kenny Williams. Myers will pitch in a set-up role and will get save chances on nights when Reed is unavailable. Also on Saturday, Jesse Crain returned from the disabled list. He, too, will factor in the late innings for the White Sox. Hierarchy change: Brett Myers to Set-up, Jesse Crain to 2nd in line.

July 13, 2012
Chicago White Sox – The White Sox are buying, and that’s potentially bad news for their solid, but young bullpen. They could look to acquire a veteran, and even though Addison Reed has only blown one save in 14 chances, the acquisition of a Huston Street or a Jonathan Broxton could mean Reed is pushed back to set-up duty. TRADE DEADLINE BUY: None. SELL: Addison Reed.

July 8, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Matt Thornton picked up the save yesterday as predicted in the vulture save watch. Addison Reed is still the closer and was just given the night off after pitching in the previous three days. No hierarchy change.

July 5, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Jesse Crain was placed on the 15 day DL with a shoulder injury. Matt Thornton piched the 8th and 9th innings of a tie game last night and will move back to the set-up role. Hierarchy change: Matt Thornton to Set-up, Nate Jones to 2nd in line, Jesse Crain to DL

May 31, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Jesse Crain continues to dominate hitters, with a 1.26 ERA and 0.91 WHIP, and he picked up his second consecutive 8th inning hold last night. Hierarchy change: Jesse Crain to Set-up, Matt Thornton to 2nd in line.

May 25, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Jesse Crain (1.59 ERA, 16 Ks in 11.1 IPs) logged his 5th consecutive scoreless outing since returning from the DL, pitching ahead of Matt Thornton and Addison Reed in the White Sox victory on Thursday. Hierarchy change: Jesse Crain to 2nd in line, replacing Nate Jones.

May 19, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Nate Jones pitched the 8th inning in a one-run game on Friday. While Robin Ventura still hasn’t declared that he’s moving away from the closer-by-committee he first established a few weeks ago, Addison Reed has been the only one getting save chances. Meanwhile, Hector Santiago has been relegated to an early innings/mop-up role, while Jones and his 99 mph fastball have been called on in some tight spots. Hierarchy change: Nate Jones to 2nd in line, replacing Hector Santiago.

May 16, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Hector Santiago pitched in the 9th inning on Tuesday when the White Sox were down 4 runs. Though he’s supposedly part of a closer-by-committee in Chicago, Addison Reed and Matt Thornton both seem positioned to get more opportunities than the young lefty. Hierarchy change: Matt Thornton to Set-up, Hector Santiago to 2nd in line.

May 11, 2012
Chicago White Sox – White Sox GM Kenny Williams told CSNChicago.com that Chris Sale was being moved back to the rotation. Apparently, after being sent to the bullpen, Sale called Williams and asked for one more shot at starting, and Williams agreed. Williams said that Addison Reed will be the closer. Hierarchy change: Addison Reed to Closer, Hector Santiago to Set-up, Matt Thornton to 2nd in line.

May 9, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Closer Chris Sale was summoned in the 8th inning on Tuesday, and was lifted in the 9th after surrendering the lead; Addison Reed eventually got the save in the 10th. Robin Ventura said after the game that he’d intended to use Sale for a 2-inning save and that the lefty was still the closer, but after the game, pitching coach Don Cooper had some cryptic remarks about Sale’s future. Cooper, speaking to the Chicago Sun-Times, likened Sale to Neftali Feliz, who the Rangers had given a few extra days between starts, and suggested that Sale could quickly and easily be moved back to the rotation. Sale also told the Sun-Times that he wants to start again, and if he does, Reed could be poised to seize the job. Even if Sale isn’t yo-yo-ed back, another bad outing or two could see Reed (0.00 ERA, 12 Ks in 9 IPs) surpass him. Hierarchy change: Addison Reed to Set-up, Hector Santiago to 2nd in line. Chris Sale to Hot Seat.

May 6, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Chris Sale doesn’t embark on his new role as closer until Monday, so the White Sox, up by one run in the 9th, called on Hector Santiago. But Santiago struggled, allowing two baserunners, and Addison Reed came in to bail him out for the one-out save. No hierarchy change.

May 5, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Chris Sale has been moved from the starting rotation to the bullpen and will immediately take over as closer. Chris Sale experienced elbow soreness after his last start and the White Sox decided a move to the bullpen would be better for his health. Sale will be given a few days off and will start closing on Monday in Cleveland. Hierarchy change: Chris Sale to Closer, Hector Santiago to Set-up, Matt Thornton to 2nd in line.

April 30, 2012
Chicago White Sox — Matt Thornton’s save last night against the heart of the Red Sox order was explained by Robin Ventura as a matchup-based decision. “Nothing against Hector, he still will be in there in the ninth.” Savvy fantasy owners know, though, that Santiago’s leash is growing shorter and shorter. No hierarchy change.

April 29, 2012
Chicago White Sox- Matt Thornton got the save today, working a perfect 1.1 innings with 2 Ks. Hector Santiago was warming up in the bullpen in the 9th but Thornton made quick work of the Red Sox to finish the game. Manager Robin Ventura backed Santiago after his last blown save on Wednesday, so it’s hard to say that Thornton is the new closer at this point. Thornton is having a great season and still may be worth having on your roster but it’s not clear if he will be getting all the saves in the future. Closer Monkey will continue to monitor the situation to see what Ventura has to say. No hierarchy change.

April 26, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Hector Santiago blew the save on Wednesday but after the game manager Robin Ventura said he would stick with Santiago as closer. Santiago is already on the hot seat so even with Ventura’s backing after the game, do not be surprised if a change is made soon if Santiago doesn’t figure out to stop giving up homeruns (He’s already given up 4 in 6 .1 innings so far this year). No hierarchy change.

April 17, 2012
Chicago White Sox – Hector Santiago had an ugly outing on Monday, allowing two HRs and blowing the save against the Orioles. It was Santiago’s first blown save this year, but he now has a 6.75 ERA. Given that he won the job at the 11th hour in spring training– and the fact that he’s now got a total of 6 MLB appearances in his career– Robin Ventura will have him on a short leash. Hector Santiago to Hot Seat.

April 7, 2012
Chicago White Sox- Hector Santiago closed out the White Sox victory on Saturday. The White Sox mystery closer has been revealed, though the young lefty was not the trendy choice until he was seen warming up in the bullpen for a possible save opportunity that never materialized on Friday. Jesse Crain seems to have fallen into a middle inning role, leaving Matt Thornton and Addison Reed to pitch the 7th and 8th. Hierarchy change: Hector Santiago to Closer, Matt Thornton to Set-up.

March 19, 2012
Chicago White Sox- The White Sox traded away closer Sergio Santos in the offseason and moved Chris Sale to the rotation. Manager Robin Ventura has not declared a closer yet but Matt Thornton and Jessie Crain are the early favorites with Thornton likely to get the first crack at it. Prospect Addison Reed might be the best arm in the bullpen so don’t be surprised if he is the closer before the end of the season. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Matt Thornton, Set-up- Jesse Crain, 2nd in line- Addison Reed.

Dec. 15, 2011
Chicago White Sox- Down the stretch in 2011, the White Sox split closing opportunities between Sergio Santos and Chris Sale. They’ve since traded Santos and announced that Sale will move to the rotation, which means a full revamp of the back end of their bullpen. The way it stands now, Jesse Crain will get the first crack at closing. Hierarchy change: Jesse Crain to Closer, Matt Thornton to Set-up, Addison Reed to 2nd in line.

Sept. 28, 2011
Chicago White Sox- The White Sox continue to share their 9th inning opportunities. After Sergio Santos got the save two days ago, they went to Chris Sale last night. Barring a lefty-heavy 9th inning, a save opp on the season’s final day should go back to Santos. No hierarchy change.

Sept. 21, 2011
Chicago White Sox- Sergio Santos was on the bench for the 9th inning last night after giving up runs in his previous two outings. Chris Sale picked up a 1.2 inning save, but barring another blown save, Santos will still get the majority of the remaining opportunities this year. No hierarchy change.

Sept. 5, 2011
Chicago White Sox- After getting knocked around a bit last night, Sergio Santos was yanked in favor of Chris Sale, who got the final out of the game and the save. Sale was brought in for a lefty, so this wasn’t a total vote of no confidence in Santos. Though this is clearly a platoon, Santos will still see more than half of the remaining save opps this season. No hierarchy change.

Sept. 4, 2011
Chicago White Sox- Sergio Santos blew the save last night, which means Chris Sale could be in line for more save opps. This was already a platoon that had Santos getting the majority of looks, but if he continues to falter, Sale could start seeing more chances. Also last night, Jesse Crain pitched the 7th, and has surpassed Matt Thornton on the depth chart. Hierarchy change: Crain to 2nd in line, replacing Thornton. Santos to “Hot Seat.”

Aug. 27, 2011
Chicago White Sox- Sale got the save last night, but it was a strategic move facing a lineup that hit righties hard. Santos is clearly still the first choice. No hierarchy change.

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