Closer Monkey

Category: Kansas City Royals

  • Tyler Kinley records another save

    September 17, 2023 Colorado Rockies – In game 2 of their doubleheader yesterday, Tyler Kinley pitched a scoreless 9th inning to pick up his 4th save of the season.  Kinley recorded a pair of saves last week after Justin Lawrence vultured one and he seems to still be the clear option in the 9th for…

  • A Rare Royal Vulture Save

    September 16, 2023Philadelphia Phillies – Craig Kimbrel took the 8th inning last night, and after 2 quick outs he walked the bases loaded before escaping without giving up a run. This left the save to Jose Alvarado, who also loaded the bases (and gave up a run) before getting a strikeout to end the game…

  • Ryan Helsley records first save since returning from injury

    September 10, 2023 St. Louis Cardinals – Ryan Helsley pitched a scoreless inning for his first save since returning from the IL while Giovanny Gallegos got the 8th inning.  Helsey has four scoreless appearances since coming back and should be the best option for saves on any given night. Hierarchy remains: *Helsley | Gallegos |…

  • Royals bullpen continues to sputter

    August 15, 2023 Tampa Bay Rays – Everyone remembers their MLB debut. And everyone remembers the first time they were mentioned on Closer Monkey. But while it almost never happens simultaneously, Jacob Lopez managed the feat, making his big-league debut with a 3-inning save in a 10-2 Rays victory. Lopez allowed one earned run and…

  • Brash and Cox pick up Vulture saves

    August 5, 2023 Kansas City Royals – The Royals are in the midst of a 7 game winning streak, and last night turned the 9th inning over to rookie Austin Cox. Cox shut the door for the first save of his career. Cox started his career on a 6 game scoreless streak before running into…