Closer Monkey | 2026
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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…
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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…
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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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Monkey Bytes: June 27
Wednesday provided one of the strangest slates in recent memory. Of the 16 games played, five had a reliever record a win, and only five ended in a save. Two were a reliever’s first of the season: Adrian Houser (NYM) and Trent Thornton (SEA). Eight high-leverage relievers made non-save appearances, including James McArthur, Mason Miller,…
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Monkey Bytes: June 26
Tuesday did not provide a full slate, with St. Louis and Atlanta postponed for a split doubleheader until today. However, relievers recorded eight wins and seven saves. Only two relievers suffered a loss, one by the Royals, which will be highlighted below. Three Takeaways Our condensed and full game recaps cover Tuesday’s contests’ high-leverage events…
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