Closer Monkey

Closer Monkey | 2026

  • Yes, Bud Norris is still the Angels’ closer

    August 9, 2017 Los Angeles Angels — Keynan Middleton overcame a solo home run to pick up his first career save. Bud Norris hadn’t pitched since Sunday, but after Tuesday’s win Mike Scioscia said that he wanted to give Norris and Blake Parker a night off because they’ve pitched so much. Norris has struggled lately,…

  • Matt Belisle, proven closer

    August 8, 2017 Pittsburgh Pirates – Felipe Rivero got a day of rest on Monday after throwing 41 pitches Sunday, which allowed Juan Nicasio to pick up his second save of the year. The Vulture Save Watch: 60 percent of the time, it works every time. Hierarchy remains: Rivero | Nicasio | Benoit. San Diego…

  • Rangers bullpen roles still as clear as mud

    August 7, 2017 Minnesota Twins – Protecting a one run lead, the Twins went with Trevor Hildenberger in the 6th and 7th, Taylor Rogers in the 8th, and Matt Belisle in the 9th. While Matty did a nice job, the Twins are still in committee mode for now, so we’ll leave our hierarchy right where it…

  • Alex Claudio moves back to head of Rangers’ committee

    August 6, 2017 [EDITOR’S NOTE: Our Donation Drive ends today. Thank you very much for your support!] Texas Rangers – There did not end up being a save opportunity for the Rangers last night because Cole Hamels pitched a completed game.  However, if Hamels had run into any trouble in the ninth inning, it was Alex…

  • Sean Doolittle and Arodys Vizcaino secure their closer jobs

    August 5, 2017 [EDITOR’S NOTE: Our Donation Drive ends this weekend. As always, we are extremely grateful for your support!] Washington Nationals — Sean Doolittle has emerged as the closer for the Nationals, having been used in that role every night he’s been available. Behind him, Brandon Kintzler pitched the seventh and Ryan Madson the eighth, his…

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