Closer Monkey

Tag: Will Smith

  • Committees shaping up in Arizona, Texas

    April 3, 2023 Washington Nationals – Washington’s first win was closed out by Kyle Finnegan, and while Davey Martinez said that Finnegan would sometimes be used as a fireman, Sunday’s usage gave good insight into the pecking order when the bullpen is deployed traditionally. Hunter Harvey got out of a tight spot in the 6th…

  • 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…

  • Devin Williams closing in Milwaukee after Josh Hader trade

    August 2, 2022 Atlanta Braves – The Braves dealt Will Smith to the Astros late Monday evening for starter Jake Odorizzi. Smith could potentially crack the Houston hierarchy in time; the Braves, meanwhile, will look to Tyler Matzek and Collin McHugh to fill in. Updated hierarchy: Jansen | Minter | Matzek. Cincinnati Reds – Hunter…

  • Liam Hendriks returns from the IL; Will Smith now atop his committee

    July 5, 2022 Chicago White Sox – Liam Hendriks is back from the IL and looked very sharp as he mowed down the Twins in the 8th inning, striking out the side on 14 pitches. Look for him to slot right back into his spot atop the White Sox hierarchy. Updated hierarchy: Hendriks | Graveman…

  • A.J. Minter gets first Braves save after Kenley Jansen was placed on IL

    June 29, 2022 Atlanta Braves – The Braves might have tipped their hands on who they think should be closing games without Kenley Jansen. A.J. Minter got the first post-Jansen save chance Tuesday and converted for his first save of 2022. Will Smith was presumably available, but he did not appear. Consider this a fluid…