Closer Monkey

Tag: Jonathan Hernandez

  • Rangers look to an old friend for 9th inning help

    September 25, 2023 Cincinnati Reds – Coming off two rough outings on Wednesday and Saturday, the Reds opted to pitch Alexis Diaz in the 8th inning with a 1-run lead. Diaz did his job, leaving the 9th for Ian Gibaut, who converted for the save. Diaz had been so good all season long — save…

  • A proven closer collects another save

    May 17, 2023 New York Yankees – You read the Vulture Save Watch yesterday and knew Michael King still isn’t pitching on consecutive days, which paved the way for Clay Holmes in the eighth and Wandy Peralta in the ninth to close out a Yankee win. Hierarchy remains: *King | Peralta | Holmes.* = closer-by-committee…

  • The “Dead Fish” is back in the bigs

    May 9, 2023 Los Angeles Angels – An evening bereft of significant bullpen news allows us to use this space to highlight one of our favorite relievers in recent years. Cesar Valdez, the 38-year-old creator of the “Dead Fish” change-up — which he throws about 80% of the time, albeit with different grips and arm…

  • Clay Holmes gets vote of confidence

    May 3, 2023 New York Yankees – After Monday’s blown save, Clay Holmes received a vote of confidence from manager Aaron Boone prior to Tuesday’s game. However, last night’s save chance went to Michael King, who tossed a scoreless ninth inning to preserve a 4-2 win. Holmes may very well rebound from his struggles, but…

  • 2023 AL West Preview

    March 13, 2023 Houston Astros — Houston returns all their top arms from a phenomenal 2022 bullpen, including top closer Ryan Pressly, last seen shutting the door on the Phillies to seal the World Series. Rafael Montero, Bryan Abreu, and Hector Neris are ready to set the table for Pressly in the late innings. Starting…