Closer Monkey

Tag: Andrew Chafin

  • Monkey Bytes, April 6: Two Bullpen Structures in Flux, Command Issues across the slate, Workload Management, and more

    Friday did not feature a full slate of games but it provided a bevy of high-leverage events of interest. A.J. Hinch acknowledged frustrated fantasy players, Pete Fairbanks complained about the baseballs in Colorado, Kenley Jansen moved into sixth place all-time in saves, and vulture options too, covered in today’s Monkey Bytes. Detroit Tigers – Just…

  • American League Central 2024 Preview

    Chicago White Sox: Way more questions than answers for the White Sox bullpen coming into 2024. If looking for the most likely reliever to land 10 or more saves, you may consider Michael Kopech. The once highly-touted starter turned emergency reliever is as good a bet as anyone to hit the double-digit mark. Other potential…

  • Spring Vibes: Hader debuts, Suarez dealing with traffic, and more

    Spring Vibes: Hader debuts, Suarez dealing with traffic, and more

    March 3, 2024 Houston Astros – Josh Hader made his spring debut. In the game recap by Brian McTaggart of MLB.com, he tossed a scoreless fifth, giving up a hit. He threw 16 pitches (9 strikes – 60 strike percentage) and hit 95 m.p.h. with his sinker, but he’s not concerned about velocity. He only…

  • Recapping a relatively calm Deadline Day

    August 2, 2023 Kansas City Royals – As expected, the Royals dealt closer Scott Barlow, sending him to the Padres. We expect Carlos Hernandez to lead a committee that includes Taylor Clarke and Dylan Coleman. Updated hierarchy: *Hernandez | Clarke | Coleman.* = closer-by-committee San Diego Padres — The Padres traded for Royals closer Scott Barlow…

  • Another meltdown in Arizona

    July 25, 2023 Kansas City Royals – Carlos Hernandez got the 8th inning ahead of Scott Barlow, which has been a trend as of late. He moves up to the handcuff spot after another successful bridge. Updated hierarchy: Barlow | Hernandez | Clarke. Baltimore Orioles – With most of the Orioles hierarchy on the shelf…