Closer Monkey | 2026

  • Monkey Bytes: July 1

    Monkey Bytes: July 1

    Sunday’s slate was slippery for fantasy managers. Five relievers won, though two made a blown save. Six relievers secured saves, though two are considered ancillary. Ryan Helsley continued his march into the history books, and a team decision before spring training paved the way for his success, covered in our next segment. Three Takeaways Link:…

  • Monkey Bytes: June 30

    Monkey Bytes: June 30

    Although Saturday only yielded five saves, there were high-leverage events of interest throughout the slate. Atlanta and the Angels both recorded walk-off wins in extra-innings. The Dodgers scored seven runs in the top of the 11th during their eventual win. Relievers secured seven wins in the 15-game slate, and with July on the horizon, bullpens…

  • Monkey Bytes: June 29

    Monkey Bytes: June 29

    Full slate Fridays usually provide a bevy of high-leverage events. Last night did not disappoint, with seven relievers recording wins, including one after a blown save and a walk-off rally (Camilo Doval). Six saves were also recorded, including an MLB-leading 29th by Ryan Helsley. It will not be covered in our revamped Closer CliffsNotes, but…

  • Trade Deadline Primer, 2.0: Relievers in a fluid market

    Trade Deadline Primer, 2.0: Relievers in a fluid market

    Not much has changed since last week’s first Trade Deadline Primer, but writers’ clickbait will continue, especially once we enter July. How teams handle their rosters will evolve over the next two weeks ahead of the All-Star game and take shape with about a week left before the July 30 deadline. Setting a baseline, here…

  • Monkey Bytes: June 28

    Monkey Bytes: June 28

    Thursday’s nine contests yielded four reliever wins, two losses, and four saves. Anthony Bender recorded a blown save and a win against the Phillies, a rare but intriguing combination for a reliever. Both Chicago teams not only won, but each recorded a save, another rare circumstance this season. Because of the limited slate, reliever leaderboards…

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