Closer Monkey

Tag: Josh Hader

  • Tiered Rankings (March 1, 2024)

    Tiered Rankings (March 1, 2024)

    With March upon us and draft season on the horizon, it’s time for the first run of tiered rankings. It’s difficult to choose which reliever will be the “closer” for a few teams, and many may prefer avoiding certain situations, like these three: At present, there are three writers ready at the wheel for Closer…

  • 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…

  • 2023 Tiered Closer Rankings

    The closer position seems especially volatile in 2023 after a significant injury to Edwin Diaz and Liam Hendriks was diagnosed with lymphoma. Diaz is likely to miss the entire season, while Hendriks is expected to miss at least a chunk of it, though it’s unknown how long he will be out. Best wishes to both…

  • Josh Hader secures another save

    September 14, 2022 San Diego Padres — Josh Hader now has the Padres’ last three saves after he locked down a 2-0 win on Tuesday. That, combined with the fact that Nick Martinez hasn’t pitched since last Wednesday, is enough to drop the asterisk.Updated hierarchy: Hader | Martinez | Garcia. Philadelphia Phillies — Seranthony Dominguez…