Closer Monkey

Closer Monkey | 2026

  • Fernando Salas appears secure; A.J. Ramos is back

    August 22, 2016 Los Angeles Angels – Over the past few weeks, the Los Angeles Angels have been an insult to “shambles” everywhere, and save chances have been scant. But when they occur, they’ve belonged to Fernando Salas. He picked up his fourth save last night, and we’ll remove the asterisk until someone else gets…

  • Enrique Burgos moves to head of committee in Arizona

    August 21, 2016 Arizona Diamondbacks — Enrique Burgos recorded his first save of the season, striking out two in the ninth inning.  Jake Barrett started the eighth inning, but was removed after giving up a hit and recording no outs.  Barrett has really struggled in August, giving up nine runs in only six innings.  Burgos has been…

  • Alex Reyes could get some St. Louis holds down the stretch

    August 20, 2016 Chicago Cubs — The Cubs bullpen lost yet another arm when Hector Rondon was placed on the DL with a triceps injury. Rondon joins Joe Smith and Pedro Strop on Chicago’s crowded disabled list. In the meantime, look for the Cubs to hold the line with Travis Wood and C.J. Edwards, although that…

  • Papelbon Watch reaches Day Six

    August 19, 2016 Free Agency — There’s still no news on Jonathan Papelbon. The longtime closer has been tied to at least the Red Sox and Cubs, which makes sense given the pitcher’s connection to both clubs. It’s now been more than 24 hours since we were expected to learn his decision, so who knows what’s…

  • Jonathan Papelbon could return to the Red Sox Thursday

    August 18, 2016 Exile — Just when you thought you were safe from the DL DC Strangler, the Red Sox look like they’re ready to bring him home. John Farrell evidently called him. David Ortiz wants to give him a hug. GM Mike Hazen was good for a backhanded compliment on the radio (“a little crazy goes a long way”). Although…

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