Closer Monkey

Tag: Craig Kimbrel

  • A Rare Royal Vulture Save

    September 16, 2023Philadelphia Phillies – Craig Kimbrel took the 8th inning last night, and after 2 quick outs he walked the bases loaded before escaping without giving up a run. This left the save to Jose Alvarado, who also loaded the bases (and gave up a run) before getting a strikeout to end the game…

  • Ryan Helsley to lead closer committee after JoJo Romero’s mystery injury

    September 5, 2023 St. Louis Cardinals – While there’s still been no official word — or any specific injury designation — from the team, MLB’s transactions page showed that the Cardinals have placed JoJo Romero on the IL, retroactive to Sept. 2. Look for Ryan Helsley and Giovanny Gallegos to share save opportunities in his absence. Updated hierarchy:…

  • Seranthony Dominguez gets another save as Phillies wonder if Craig Kimbrel has been tipping pitches

    August 4, 2023 Philadelphia Phillies – Seranthony Dominguez earned his second save in the past three days on Thursday, allowing one hit with one strikeout in a scoreless ninth inning. Score one for the Vulture Save Watch. While Gregory Soto was likely unavailable Thursday, Dominguez’s success this week is hard to ignore. If you recall,…

  • 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…

  • Phillies may be moving toward high-leverage model

    July 27, 2023 Seattle Mariners – Andres Munoz got the save, with Paul Sewald getting the night off after going three straight. Vulture Save Watch +1. Hierarchy remains: Sewald | Munoz | Topa. Philadelphia Phillies – With the 3-4-5 hitters due up in the 8th inning, the Phillies went to Craig Kimbrel, who retired the…