Closer Monkey | 2026

  • Trade Deadline Primer, 3.0: An evolving market may take shape by the All-Star break

    Trade Deadline Primer, 3.0: An evolving market may take shape by the All-Star break

    Many columns regarding the Trade Deadline have been posted, but the reliever market is not yet robust. It will pick up momentum, especially during the All-Star break. Teams will have a better idea about their chances for the playoffs, making tough roster decisions easier. Entering gameplay on July 5, the last Wild Card spot in…

  • Monkey Bytes: July 5

    Thursday’s full slate included five reliever wins and seven saves, including two relievers recording their first saves of the year. Three wins featured multiple-inning outings by relievers, including an impressive one by Justin Martinez. Three Takeaways Next, our condensed game recaps cover Thursday’s high-leverage events of interest. Closer CliffsNotes American League Baltimore Orioles – Taking…

  • Monkey Bytes: July 4

    First, a happy and safe July Fourth to our Closer Monkey community. Please enjoy your time with family and friends. During last night’s full slate, relievers had two multiple-inning wins, two wins after a blown save, and six in all. There were eight saves, including a historical one by Craig Kimbrel. He moved into fourth…

  • Monkey Bytes: July 3

    Monkey Bytes: July 3

    Tuesday provided plenty of high-leverage events of interest, including walk-offs by the Dodgers and the Guardians, plus another extra-inning contest between the Mets and Nationals. Relievers recorded five wins and eight saves on this slate, including one by a newly promoted pitcher for the Mets, who may alter the team’s plans ahead of the trade…

  • Monkey Bytes: July 2

    Monkey Bytes: July 2

    Despite a three-game slate, Monday provided high-leverage intrigue in each one. Houston held on for a two-run win over Toronto, the Mets prevailed in extra-innings barely, and Colorado won on a walk-off in the bottom of the tenth. Today’s Three Takeaways features two of these teams and one reliever struggling for the Nationals. Three Takeaways…

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