Tag: Matt Koch

  • Monkey Bytes, May 23: Helsley nails down his 15th save, Durán’s home run struggles persist, Game Recaps, and more

    Two relievers earned their first major league saves on Wednesday, and the Cardinals completed a sweep. Ryan Helsley now leads the National League with his 15th save, while Jhoan Durán secured his fourth save despite giving up another home run. Our condensed and full game recaps cover these events and those of interest. Closer CliffsNotes…

  • Cubs have several options after Adbert Alzolay injury

    September 12, 2023 Atlanta Braves – After AJ Minter and Raisel Iglesias pitching the 8th and 9th innings (the latter blowing the save), the Braves went to Kirby Yates after retaking the lead in the top of the 10th. Yates converted for his 4th save of the year. Hierarchy remains: Iglesias | Minter | Yates.…

  • Tyler Kinley takes over as Rockies closer

    September 6, 2023 Colorado Rockies – We thought Justin Lawrence might get a second straight night off after a heavy workload this past weekend. We were right, though it seems like Lawrence is going to see some extended time off, at least from the ninth inning. The man to replace him? None other than Tyler…

  • 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:…

  • Royals bullpen continues to sputter

    August 15, 2023 Tampa Bay Rays – Everyone remembers their MLB debut. And everyone remembers the first time they were mentioned on Closer Monkey. But while it almost never happens simultaneously, Jacob Lopez managed the feat, making his big-league debut with a 3-inning save in a 10-2 Rays victory. Lopez allowed one earned run and…