Monkey Bytes; May 31

Despite a smaller slate on Thursday, relievers recorded three wins and four saves. Reed Garrett snapped his bullpen’s futility while securing his third save. Milwaukee used Elvis Peguero as the replacement in the ninth, while Trevor Megill worked on reducing the swelling in his pitching arm from his contusion versus the Cubs.

There was one transaction yesterday affecting a team’s leverage ladder and another will be announced today:

  • Atlanta placed A.J. Minter on the 15-day injured list with hip inflammation.
  • Oakland will place Lucas Erceg on the 15-day injured list today because of forearm tightness.

Our condensed and full game recaps cover Thursday’s high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

American League

(RP | DET): Closing out a combined shutout, Tyler Holton fired 1.1 clean frames, striking out two during a win in Boston. 

(RP | HOU): Finishing a combined shutout, Josh Hader turned in a scoreless ninth despite allowing two hits and recorded two strikeouts in a non-save outing.

(RP | KCR): Entering the sixth inning with a one-run lead, Chris Stratton allowed three hits, four earned runs, and two walks in two-thirds of an inning, resulting in his third loss and second blown save.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): James McArthur | John Schreiber | Chris Stratton

(RP | MIN): After an error extended his outing, Jhoan Durán recorded his ninth save despite allowing two unearned runs on a hit and a walk, preserving a one-run win over the Royals. 

(RP | OAK): Perfection remains fleeting for relievers, and Mason Miller suffered his first blown save during an eventual loss in Tampa Bay. He allowed a game-tying solo home run in the ninth, and let the “place” runner score in the tenth on a sacrifice fly during his two-inning outing. 

(RP | TBR): Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Richard Lovelady collected his first win after tossing a scoreless top of the 12th, issuing a walk and striking out one. 

National League

(RP | ARI): Entering in the seventh, Ryan Thompson allowed a game-tying RBI single by Francisco Lindor, scoring an inherited runner. During the eighth, he gave up a go-ahead home run by J.D. Martinez, which resulted in his second loss and third blown save. 

(RP | CHC): During a tied game in the bottom of the eighth, Luke Little issued two walks which resulted in an earned run and his first loss over his two-thirds of an inning. 

(RP | MIL): Navigating around a one-out single, Elvis Peguero secured his first save of 2024, and the second of his career with a scoreless ninth, finishing a two-run win over the Cubs. 

(RP | NYM): Closing a comeback win over Arizona, Reed Garrett navigated around a walk for a scoreless ninth and his third save. 

(RP | WSH): Closing a two-run win in Atlanta, Kyle Finnegan recorded his 15th save, working a scoreless ninth while issuing a walk and striking out one. 

Vulture Save Options for Friday, May 31

  • Ryan Pressly (HOU): Hader has appeared in back-to-back contests, which puts the grizzled veteran in line for the save chance today.
  • Jason Adam (TBR): Fairbanks has pitched in two straight, placing Adam on the radar for the vulture save.
  • Jorge Alcala (MIN): I’m playing a hunch on this one, but he’s throwing gas. Durán has pitched in three of the last four and five of the last seven. Jax has also logged outings in three of the past four days.

Vulture Save Stashes for Saturday, June 1

  • Austin Adams (OAK): Miller not only worked two innings on Thursday, he’s thrown 59 pitches over the previous three days. With Erceg on the injured list, Adams could get the vulture save.

American League – Full Recaps

Detroit Tigers – Preserving a combined shutout, Tyler Holton retired his four batters faced, two via strikeout in Boston. He threw 21 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (23.8 SwStr%). Alex Faedo stranded a runner in the seventh and logged a scoreless combined inning, yielding a hit and striking out one for his fifth hold.

This usage pattern implies Faedo belongs in the hierarchy. 

Adjusted Hierarchy (match-up based): Jason Foley (HLR|PSS) | Tyler Holton | Alex Faedo

*An HLR/PSS means he’s the preferred save option, but will be used in the highest-leverage moment in games when necessary. 

Houston Astros – In a non-save appearance, Josh Hader preserved a combined shutout by navigating around two hits and recording two strikeouts in the bottom of the ninth. He threw 19 pitches (73.7 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (31.6 SwStr%). He finishes May with a robust 22 strikeouts against four walks while converting all five save chances with a 0.75 WHIP over 13.1 innings. Ryan Pressly fired a clean eighth, striking out one. Rafael Montero worked a clean seventh, striking out one.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

Minnesota Twins – Appearing for the fifth time in seven days, Jhoan Durán held on for his ninth save. He issued a one-out walk, then Kyle Isbel reached on an error. After inducing a groundout, a runner advanced on defensive indifference, and Bobby Witt Jr. produced a two-RBI single. Durán closed out the win with a game-ending groundout but gave up a hit and a walk on 20 pitches (65 Strike%) with two whiffs. He’s allowed a run in five of eight outings and produced a 5:4 K:BB through seven innings. Griffin Jax secured his tenth hold, allowing a hit and striking out two in the eighth. Jorge Alcala fired a clean seventh, striking out two for his fourth hold. Caleb Thielbar collected his second win, stranding a runner and issuing a walk while recording an out in the sixth.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar

Oakland A’s – Taking over the bottom of the 12th with the “place” runner still on second base, T.J. McFarland gave up a walk-off RBI single by Richie Palacios, handing Tyler Ferguson his first loss. He logged 1.1 innings and allowed an unearned run while striking out one. Mason Miller suffered his first blown save, allowing a game-tying home run sandwiched between three strikeouts. Returning for the tenth, the “place” runner, José Caballero, stole third before Yandy Díaz drew a walk, and Miller allowed a sacrifice fly, tying the game once again. His final line was two innings with one hit allowed, two runs (one earned), and three walks while striking out four. He threw 32 pitches (23 strikes – 71.9 Strike%) and generated seven whiffs (21.9 SwStr%). Austin Adams notched his 13th hold, issuing a walk during a scoreless eighth. Scott Alexander tossed a clean seventh for his second hold.

Lucas Erceg was placed on the 15-day injured list with forearm tightness causing an adjusted hierarchy. 

Adjusted Hierarchy (mostly linear): Mason Miller | Austin Adams | Scott Alexander

Tampa Bay Rays – Working around an intentional walk, Richard Lovelady pitched a scoreless top of the 12th and struck out one. He collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off in the bottom of the inning. Garrett Cleavinger tossed a scoreless 11th, striking out one. Pete Fairbanks allowed the “place” runner to score on an Abraham Toro single, a JJ Bledey double, and an intentional walk before inducing a double play and then recording a strikeout, preventing further damage. Phil Maton turned in a clean ninth, striking out one. Kevin Kelly stranded a runner in the seventh while retiring all four batters faced with two strikeouts.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

National League – Full Recaps

Arizona Diamondbacks – Stemming a rally, Kevin Ginkel stranded a runner while recording two outs, one via strikeout in the bottom of the eighth. Ryan Thompson suffered his second loss and third blown save, allowing three hits, including a go-ahead home run by J.D. Martinez. He also let his only inherited runner on a Francisco Lindor single in the seventh. Joe Mantiply was credited with his fourth hold, giving up a hit and an earned run while striking out one over two-thirds of the seventh. Justin Martinez tossed three scoreless frames, scattering three hits and walking one while striking out two. 

Getting Ginkel right, and into the eighth inning would enhance this leverage ladder. 

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Paul Sewald | Ryan Thompson | Joe Mantiply

Chicago Cubs – With a runner on and two outs, Tyson Miller was summoned during a tied contest but allowed a go-ahead, two-run home run by Gary Sánchez before striking out Sal Frelick. Luke Little was charged with his first loss, giving up an earned run and two walks over two-thirds of the eighth. Hayden Wesneski stranded a runner, striking out William Contreras in the seventh. Mark Leiter Jr. gave up two hits and an earned run while striking out one in two-thirds of the seventh. He’s allowed at least a run in three of his last four appearances.

Based on recent usage patterns, Wesneski enters the hierarchy. 

Updated Hierarchy (mostly linear): Héctor Neris | Mark Leiter Jr. | Hayden Wesneski

Milwaukee Brewers – Converting his first save of the season and second of his career, Elvis Peguero turned in a scoreless top of the ninth despite allowing a one-out single by Dansby Swanson. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Bryan Hudson collected his fourth win and incurred his first blown save. He gave up two home runs during his 1.2 innings and recorded a strikeout. This marks his second straight outing with a win, but he lost his modest seven-game scoreless streak. Joel Payamps gave up a hit and an earned run in a combined inning for his sixth save. His run scored on the first home run given up by Hudson.

Hierarchy remains (preferred save share with match-up-based set-up): Trevor Megill | Elvis Peguero | Bryan Hudson

New York Mets – Capping a come-from-behind win, Reed Garrett recorded his third save, working around a lead-off walk with two pop-outs and a groundout, preserving the one-run win. He threw 13 pitches (7 strikes – 53.8 Strike%) without a whiff. This outing snapped a three-game streak, allowing at least a run, and marked his first save in 11 days. Danny Young collected his second win, tossing a clean top of the eighth and striking out two ahead of his team’s go-ahead rally in the bottom of the frame. Adrian Houser logged two scoreless frames, issuing a walk and striking out two.

Adjusted Hierarchy (fluid roles): *Reed Garrett | *Jake Diekman | *Adam Ottavino

*= closer-by-committee

Washington Nationals – Save number 15 for Kyle Finnegan. He tossed a scoreless bottom of the ninth, issuing a walk and striking out one while preserving a two-run win over Atlanta. He threw 20 pitches (60 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (25 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in eight of nine games in May while converting six of seven save chances with 11 strikeouts against four walks over 9.2 innings. Hunter Harvey recorded his 17th hold, yielding a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth. Robert Garcia retired his only batter in the seventh, securing his seventh hold. Dylan Floro stranded a runner in the sixth and turned in a clean, combined inning while striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains (mostly linear): Kyle Finnegan | Hunter Harvey | Dylan Floro

Closer Monkey’s filthy sequence of the day awarded to Jorge Alcala, video courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community. Stay safe and be well.

Please consider becoming a premium subscriber for a one-time $20 donation to the site, featuring full-text emails with charts, column blurbs, and ad-free analysis.

Monkey Bytes; May 30

Wednesday’s slate only yielded three saves, but there were some interesting high-leverage events. Plus, fantasy managers should monitor the Blue Jays bullpen, as noted in our recap below. A few vulture options can be deployed on today’s limited eight-game slate, and it’s almost June. Last, the Mets bullpen remains ineffective, and the team placed Edwin Díaz on the 15-day injured list, but it remains a match-up-based approach until a reliever emerges as the preferred save share in the interim.

Our condensed and full recaps cover yesterday’s leverage outcomes of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

American League

(RP | HOU): In the bottom of the tenth inning, Tayler Scott took over a tied game and issued two walks. The “place” runner scored on a walk-off sacrifice fly, resulting in his second loss.

(RP | NYY): Despite dealing with traffic, Clay Holmes secured his 16th save, navigating around a hit and a walk for a scoreless ninth against the Angels. 

(RP | OAK): Entering a tied game in the bottom of the ninth, Michael Kelly suffered his second loss, allowing a single, a sacrifice bunt, and a walk-off, sacrifice fly. 

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Mason Miller | Lucas Erceg | Austin Adams

(RP | SEA): After tossing a clean top of the tenth, Mike Baumann collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the frame. 

(RP | TBR): After working around a lead-off double, Pete Fairbanks earned his first win following a walk-off rally in the bottom of then ninth. 

(RP | TOR): Despite serving up a solo home run in the bottom of the ninth, Jordan Romano secured his eighth save, preserving a 3-1 win over the White Sox. 

National League

(RP | COL): An odd ninth inning resulted in two earned runs on the ledger for Tyler Kinley. He finished with two hits against, two earned runs allowed, and recorded three strikeouts. But defensive indifference and a wild pitch were the culprits. 

(RP | LAD): Blake Treinen collected his second win, tossing a scoreless seventh, allowing a two-out single by Starling Marte, and recording a strikeout. He preserved a tied contest ahead of his team’s six-run rally in the top of the eighth, throwing 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) with three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains: *Daniel Hudson | *Blake Treinen | Alex Vesia

*= closer-by-committee

(RP | MIA): Tanner Scott retired the side in the bottom of the ninth on nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s turned in back-to-back clean outings and remains unscored upon through 10 games in May with an 11:5 K:BB over 10.1 innings.

Hierarchy remains (linear saves but set-up roles remain in flux): Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

(RP | MIL): Entering during the fifth inning, Jared Koenig logged two scoreless frames, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out three, collecting his fifth win. He threw 37 pitches (64.9 Strike%) and generated nine whiffs (24.3 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains (preferred save share with match-up based set-up): Trevor Megill | Elvis Peguero | Bryan Hudson

(RP | NYM): Another rough outing by Adam Ottavino against the Dodgers resulted in his second loss. He took over a tied game in the top of the eighth, allowing a lead-off home run by Will Smith, a one-out triple by Jason Heyward, a walk, and an RBI single by Miguel Vargas before his removal. His final line was one-third of an inning with three hits against, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out one. He’s allowed at least a run in two straight and three of his last four.

Before this game, Edwin Díaz was placed on the 15-day injured list due to shoulder impingement per the team’s “X” account. 

This resets the hierarchy though it still remains fluid based on recent outcomes. Perhaps a hot hand will emerge, but for now: 

Adjusted Hierarchy (fluid roles): *Reed Garrett | *Jake Diekman | *Adam Ottavino

*= closer-by-committee

(RP | STL): Hanging on for his 18th save, Ryan Helsley allowed a hit, an earned run, and two walks while closing out a win in Cincinnati. 

(RP | WSH): Securing his 16th hold, Hunter Harvey faced the top of Atlanta’s lineup, retiring four of five batters faced and striking out three over 1.1 scoreless frames. 

Vulture Save Options, May 30

  • Reed Garrett (NYM): If his team provides a save chance, he will receive it based on workload management.
  • Ryne Stanek (SEA): Muñoz has pitched in three of the previous four days, he could get the save chance but it’s likely the team plays it safe with Stanek instead.
  • Tommy Kahnle (NYY): They have not used him in the ninth since his return, but with the right-handed lean in the Angels lineup, he could be the beneficiary of the save today with Holmes pitching the last two days. If not, it could be Ian Hamilton.
  • Milwaukee: If they deploy a match-up-based approach, Bryan Hudson or Joel Payamps will be in play for the save, if provided.

Vulture Save Options, May 31

  • Lucas Erceg (OAK): If Miller pitches today, it could be Erceg in line for Friday.
  • Jason Adam (TBR): He will be off today, and if Fairbanks pitches this afternoon, Adam will be in line for the save chance on Friday.

American League – Full Recaps

Houston Astros – Tasked with a tied game in the bottom of the tenth, Tayler Scott suffered his second loss. He issued two walks and allowed a walk-off sacrifice fly by J.P. Crawford during his two-thirds of an inning. Josh Hader worked a scoreless ninth, allowing a one-out single by Julio Rodríguez, a stolen base, and a Ty France walk before bearing down, striking out the next two batters. He recorded all three outs via strikeout, throwing 24 pitches (14 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) and generating eight whiffs (33.3 SwStr%). He’s produced 20 strikeouts versus three walks while converting all five opportunities in May. Bryan Abreu turned in a clean seventh, striking out the side on 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) with four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

New York Yankees – Save number 16 for Clay Holmes, though he navigated around a lead-off single, then a wild pitch placing Luis Rengifo on second base during a walk to Taylor Ward with a double play groundout and an inning-ending grounder by Logan O’Hoppe, preserving a one-run win over the Angels. He threw 14 pitches (50 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Over his last five outings, he’s suffered a loss while converting three of five save opportunities, allowing nine hits, four earned runs, and three walks while striking out three through 4.1 innings (2.79 WHIP).

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Clay Holmes | Luke Weaver | Tommy Kahnle

Seattle Mariners – Entering in the top of the tenth, Mike Baumann retired the side against Houston’s 8-9-1 batters and collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off in the bottom of the frame. He only threw five pitches, all strikes. Andrés Muñoz fired a clean ninth, striking out one, keeping the game tied. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s been scoreless in 10 of 11 appearances in May, converting all six save chances with 16 strikeouts versus one walk over 12.1 innings. Austin Voth retired his only batter faced via strikeout in the eighth, stranding a runner. Gabe Speier gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout during two-thirds scoreless in the eighth. Trent Thornton turned in a clean seventh, striking out the side.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Andrés Muñoz | Ryne Stanek | Gabe Speier

Tampa Bay Rays – Benefiting from a walk-off in the bottom of the ninth, Pete Fairbanks collected his first win. He tossed a scoreless top of the inning and navigated around a lead-off double. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless through eight appearances in May with eight strikeouts against one walk while converting both save chances. Jason Adam suffered his second blown save, giving up a hit, an unearned run, and striking out one. Garrett Cleavinger fired a clean seventh, recording two strikeouts. Kevin Kelly gave up a hit and let one of two inherited runners score in the sixth.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

Toronto Blue Jays – Hanging on for his eighth save, Jordan Romano could not preserve the shutout, allowing a solo home run by Korey Lee in the bottom of the ninth before inducing a game-ending lineout by Paul DeJong. Romano threw 16 pitches (9 strikes – 56.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff. This save moved him into third all-time in Toronto team history, marking the 105th of his career. However, he’s allowed at least a run in two straight and three of his last five. Yimi García notched his ninth hold, retiring the side in the eighth, striking out one. Zach Pop worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one for his fourth hold. Tim Mayza secured his eighth hold, issuing a walk during a scoreless sixth. Trevor Richards collected his first win, logging 3.1 scoreless innings, giving up a hit and a walk.

We will be watching Romano’s June results.

Updated Hierarchy (mostly linear): Jordan Romano | Yimi García (HLR) | Zach Pop

National League – Full Recaps

Colorado Rockies – Closing out a win over the Guardians, Tyler Kinley let Johnathan Rodriguez reach after a strikeout on a wild pitch. With two outs, he gave up a single by Will Brennan, who scored him after he moved up to second on defensive indifference. Which Brennan also did ahead of a Brayan Rocchio single. Kinley issued Tyler Freeman a walk with two outs before striking out Andrés Giménez, preserving the three-run win. His final line was an inning pitched with two hits allowed, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out three on 28 pitches (64.3 Strike%) with six whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). Jalen Beeks retired the side in the eighth, striking out one against the 2-3-4 lineup pocket. 

Hierarchy remains (match-up-based): *Tyler Kinley | *Jalen Beeks | Justin Lawrence

*= closer-by-committee

St. Louis Cardinals – While recording his 18th save, Ryan Helsley allowed a lead-off single and issued a walk, putting two runners on before retiring Jacob Hurtibise on a groundout. This moved both runners up, and Tyler Stephenson produced a sacrifice fly. After issuing another walk, Helsley induced a game-ending groundout by Elly De La Cruz. He threw 21 pitches (9 strikes—42.9 Strike%) without getting a whiff. He’s allowed at least a run in three straight contests, and this outing represents his first with multiple walks. He has converted all eight save chances this month but with a 6:4 K:BB over nine innings. Andrew Kittredge was credited with his 15th hold, giving up two hits and an earned run in the eighth. John King retired both batters in the seventh, one via strikeout for his third hold. Patrick Leahy gave up two hits and an earned run during his one-third of the seventh, getting credit for his second hold.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | JoJo Romero

Washington Nationals – Taking over in the bottom of the sixth with runners on second and third, Dylan Floro induced a groundout, letting one runner score, and an inning-ending groundout for his sixth hold. Robert Garcia allowed a hit during two-thirds scoreless in the seventh during his sixth hold. Hunter Harvey stranded a runner while tossing 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out three en route to his 16th hold. He threw 21 pitches (13 strikes – 61.9 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (23.8 SwStr%) versus Atlanta’s first five batters. Jordan Weems worked a clean ninth, preserving a five-run win after his teammates tacked on two runs in the top of the inning.

Hierarchy Remains (mostly linear): Kyle Finnegan | Hunter Harvey | Dylan Floro

Closer Monkey’s featured pitch of the day is this filthy slider by Blake Treinen. The video is courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community. Stay safe and be well.

Please consider becoming a premium subscriber for a one-time $20 donation to the site, featuring full-text emails with charts, column blurbs, and ad-free analysis.

Monkey Bytes; May 29

Tuesday’s full slate was reduced by one postponement, but the Dodgers/Mets doubleheader still provided 15 games. Speaking of which, Los Angeles recorded a sweep with two saves, including Blake Treinen‘s first this year. Plus, the team will activate its closer on Friday.

There was an injury scare in Milwaukee when a comeback line drive struck Trevor Megill directly on his elbow. He walked off the field, but in the postgame interview, his manager said there was no fracture. He will be day-to-day, like the rest of us going forward. I plan on him being out until the weekend. Last, Jeremiah Estrada made history, retiring his last 13 batters via strikeout. Pretty, pretty, pretty good.

In case you missed it, an updated SOLDS tiered rankings was posted yesterday for Week 10.

Our condensed and full game recaps cover yesterday’s six reliever wins and eight saves, as well as the high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

American League

(RP | CLE): Taking over in the bottom of the sixth during a tied game with a runner on, Cade Smith retired Elias Díaz on a strikeout, then worked a scoreless seventh. As a result, he collected his second win and finished 1.1 scoreless frames with a hit against and three strikeouts. He threw 17 pitches (15 strikes – 88.2 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Emmanuel Clase | Hunter Gaddis | Cade Smith

(RP | HOU): In Seattle, Ryan Pressly suffered his second loss and fourth blown save. He allowed three hits, three runs (two earned), and a walk in the bottom of the eighth.

(RP | LAA): Handed a one-run lead, Carlos Estévez nailed down his eighth save, retiring the side in the top of the ninth. 

(RP | MIN): Appearing for the fourth time in five days, Jhoan Durán navigated around consecutive hits, opening his outing with a caught stealing, a strikeout, and a game-ending groundout, securing his eighth save. 

(RP | NYY): Clay Holmes could not stem the tide in the bottom of the eighth. He took over with two runners and two outs, giving up a go-ahead, two RBI double, resulting in his third blown save in an eventual one-run loss against the Angels. 

(RP | OAK): Closing out a combined shutout, Mason Miller recorded his 11th save with a scoreless ninth, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out two. 

(RP | SEA): Filling affably for his team’s closer, Ryne Stanek locked down his third save, firing a clean top of the ninth and striking out two, preserving a comeback win over Houston. 

(RP | TEX): Navigating around a hit and a walk, Kirby Yates secured his eighth save during a scoreless ninth while striking out two during a win over Arizona. 

National League

(RP | ATL): Securing his 11th save, and preserving a shutout, Raisel Iglesias retired the side and recorded two strikeouts during a win over the Nationals. 

(RP | CHC): Despite suffering his second blown save, Héctor Neris collected his fifth win courtesy of a huge, five-run rally in the top of the tenth. Neris allowed a two-out walk, issued a balk, and gave up an RBI single, tying the game in the ninth. 

(RP | COL):  Entering in the fifth, Peter Lambert suffered his fourth loss, giving up an earned run and a walk while striking out one over his two innings of relief.

Hierarchy remains (match-up-based): *Tyler Kinley | *Jalen Beeks | Justin Lawrence

*= closer-by-committee

(RP | LAD): Locking down his first save of the season, and first since 2021, Blake Treinen closed out a three-run win in the bottom of the tenth over the Mets, retiring the side while striking out two in Game 1.

Preserving a sweep and a shutout in Game 2, Alex Vesia notched his second save. He pitched two scoreless innings, allowing a walk and striking out three. He threw 30 pitches (16 strikes—53.3 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

(RP | MIL): A tough luck loss for Trevor Megill. He did not record an out after being hit by a comeback line drive by Mike Tauchman, scoring the “place” runner. Megill left the contest, but his manager confirmed he did not suffer a fracture. 

(RP | NYM): Another squandered opportunity in Game 1 resulted in a second loss for Jorge López. He gave up three hits, three runs (two earned), and recorded two strikeouts in the top of the tenth. 

(RP | PHI): Blinking first in a walk-off loss, Matt Strahm gave up consecutive flyouts, including a walk-off sacrifice fly, scoring the game’s only run in the bottom of the tenth. 

(RP | SDP): Jeremiah Estrada made MLB history, firing a clean top of the ninth while striking out the side, preserving a combined shutout. He’s retired each of his last 13 batters faced via strikeout, breaking the record set by José Alvarado. 

(RP | SFG): After turning in two scoreless frames, Sean Hjelle collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the tenth.

Vulture Save Options for Wednesday, May 29

  • Josh Staumont (MIN): Revenge can be a dish best served cold or getting a save chance against your former employer. Durán has pitched four times over the last five days; Jax has appeared on two straight, leaving Staumont against the right-handed Royals hitters today if a save chance presents itself.
  • Milwaukee: It may depend on lineup pockets. If Bellinger hits in the ninth, Bryan Hudson would have the save chance. I think Joel Payamps will get the chance if it’s a right-handed pocket.
  • Lucas Erceg (OAK): Miller pitched yesterday, so if they give him today off, Erceg will be the vulture save option.
  • Doubleheader Alert: Pittsburgh and Detroit will play two this afternoon. Colin Holderman could garner a vulture save for the Pirates if there’s a sweep.

Vulture Save Options for Thursday, May 30

  • Cubs: If Neris pitches again today, Mark Leiter Jr. could receive the save opportunity on Thursday. Also, keep tabs on Hayden Wesneski and Porter Hodge‘s usage patterns moving forward.
  • Luis García (LAA): If Estévez pitches again today and the team does not use García, he will be in line for Thursday. If both pitch, Hunter Strickland.

American League – Full Recaps

Houston Astros – This season continues to be a struggle for Ryan Pressly. He’s been demoted from closer duties, worked through separate back and finger injuries, and has not performed well. He suffered his second loss and fourth blown save, giving up three hits, three runs (two earned), and a walk while striking out three in the bottom of the eighth in Seattle. It began with a lead-off Mitch Haniger double, a wild pitch moving him to third, a walk, and a one-out, game-tying RBI double by Josh Rojas, followed by a two-RBI single by Julio Rodríguez, ceding the lead. Bryan Abreu secured his 11th hold, retiring the side in the seventh and striking out two.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

Los Angeles Angels – Closing a comeback win, Carlos Estévez recorded his eighth save, retiring the Yankees 9-1-2 hitters in order, preserving a one-run win. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) without inducing a whiff. He’s converted his last two save opportunities but has allowed at least a run during three of his last six appearances. Matt Moore collected his first win, firing a clean eighth and striking out one. Luis García turned in a clean seventh, recording a strikeout. Hunter Strickland tossed a clean sixth, striking out one.

Adjusted Hierarchy (mostly linear): Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Matt Moore

Minnesota Twins – Logging his fourth appearance in five days, Jhoan Durán held on for his eighth save, navigating around two hits and recording a strikeout. His outing began with a lead-off Salvador Perez double and a single by Adam Frazier, putting runners on the corners. But, Durán bore down after the first out on a caught stealing with a strikeout and a game-ending groundout, preserving the two-run win. He threw 16 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Griffin Jax fired a clean eighth, striking out two for his ninth hold. Josh Staumont retired the side in the seventh, recording his first hold. Jorge Alcala tossed a clean sixth, striking out two while securing his third hold.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar

New York Yankees – Forced into action at the bottom of the eighth, Clay Holmes entered with runners on first and second, with two outs leading by one. He suffered his third blown save, allowing a go-ahead, two-RBI double by Taylor Ward, tossed a wild pitch, gave up a single by Kevin Pillar, and induced an inning-ending groundout by Logan O’Hoppe. He’s allowed multiple hits in three of his last four outings. Luke Weaver was tagged with his first loss and credited with his seventh hold, giving up two hits and two earned runs and striking out three over 1.2 innings. Tommy Kahnle notched his first hold, stranding a runner and retiring both batters in the bottom of the sixth.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Clay Holmes | Luke Weaver | Tommy Kahnle

Oakland A’s – Save number 11 for Mason Miller, closing a combined shutout in Tampa Bay. He allowed a two-out single and issued a walk before producing a game-ending strikeout. He threw 27 pitches (17 strikes – 63 Strike%) and induced one whiff. With his two strikeouts, he’s recorded 47 through his first 19 games, spanning 24 innings. Michael Kelly notched his third hold, giving up a hit and striking out one over 1.2 scoreless frames. T.J. McFarland tossed a clean combined inning, striking out one for his sixth hold.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Mason Miller | Lucas Erceg | Austin Adams

Seattle Mariners – Capping a comeback win, Ryne Stanek retired the side in the top of the ninth, recording two strikeouts against Houston’s 5-6-7 batters. He threw 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in five of his last six outings, with seven strikeouts against zero walks. Tayler Saucedo earned his second win, tossing a scoreless eighth, issuing a walk, and striking out one ahead of his team’s three-run rally in the bottom of the inning. Austin Voth worked a clean seventh, striking out one.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Andrés Muñoz | Ryne Stanek | Gabe Speier

Texas Rangers – Recording his first save since May 8 and his eighth of the season, Kirby Yates worked around a hit and a walk while striking out two during a scoreless ninth inning. He threw 23 pitches (14 strikes 60.9 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (26.1 SwStr%) against Arizona. David Robertson notched his 12th hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the eighth. Grant Anderson secured his first hold, logging 1.2 scoreless frames and recording two strikeouts. Andrew Heaney collected his first win as the “bulk follower,” turning in 2.1 scoreless innings while scattering two hits and allowing a walk while striking out one. 

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Kirby Yates | David Robertson | José Leclerc

National League – Full Recaps

Atlanta Braves – Preserving a shutout and taking the baton from Max Fried, closer Raisel Iglesias fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts for his 13th save. He threw 11 pitches (9 strikes—81.8 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). This marks four scoreless outings, and he’s converted five consecutive save chances.

Hierarchy remains: Raisel Iglesias | A.J. Minter | Joe Jiménez

Chicago Cubs – Benefiting from a five-run rally in the top of the tenth, Héctor Neris collected his fifth win despite being tagged with his second blown save. He took over a 1-0 game during the ninth inning and quickly recorded two outs. However, he then issued a walk to Christian Yelich, balked him to second, and allowed a game-tying RBI single by Willy Adames. Luke Little gave up two runs (one earned) and a walk over two-thirds of the tenth. Tyson Miller let an inherited runner score, giving up a hit and striking out one, closing the three-run win. In the eighth, Hayden Wesneski broke up the no-hit effort, allowing a Sal Frelick single, and recorded two strikeouts. With a runner on second, Mark Leiter Jr. retired his only batter via strikeout for his eighth hold.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Héctor Neris | Mark Leiter Jr. | Tyson Miller

Los Angeles Dodgers – Handed a three-run lead in the bottom of the tenth in Game 1, Blake Treinen closed out his first save, and first since 2021, retiring the side with two strikeouts. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Daniel Hudson worked a scoreless ninth, navigating around two hits and a walk while striking out one. He collected his second courtesy of a three-run rally in the top of the tenth. Michael Grove worked a clean eighth, striking out one. Preserving a sweep and a shutout in Game 2, Alex Vesia notched his second save, turning in two scoreless innings, allowing a walk, and striking out three. He threw 30 pitches (16 strikes – 53.3 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). 

Hierarchy remains: *Daniel Hudson | *Blake Treinen | Alex Vesia

*= closer-by-committee

Milwaukee Brewers – It was not an actual walk-off loss, but Trevor Megill took over in the top of the tenth and was hit on the elbow with a comeback line drive. After being struck, he walked off the field, letting the “place” runner score. He finished his outing with a hit allowed and two runs (one earned) without recording an out, resulting in his first loss. Initial reports suggest he did not suffer a fracture, but fantasy players should monitor his health closely. Hoby Milner gave up four hits and three earned runs over two-thirds of the tenth. Elvis Peguero issued three walks and recorded two strikeouts during a scoreless ninth. Joel Payamps yielded a hit during a scoreless eighth. Enoli Paredes fired a clean seventh, striking out one.

Plan on a match-up-based approach over the next few games until Megill can return, and keep tabs on the growing leverage role for Paredes.

Hierarchy remains (preferred save share with match-up-based set-up): Trevor Megill | Elvis Peguero | Bryan Hudson

New York Mets – Suffering his second loss, Jorge López allowed three hits, including a two-run home run by Freddie Freeman, three runs (two earned), and recorded two strikeouts in the top of the tenth in Game 1. Adam Ottavino was tagged with his second blown save, giving up an RBI squeeze bunt among his three hits and striking out one in the ninth. Mets relievers have blown five of their last seven save chances. Jake Diekman let one of two inherited runners score in the eighth, yielding a hit and striking out one during his fifth hold. Reed Garrett gave up a hit and an unearned run over one-third of the eighth, getting credit for his fifth hold.

Hierarchy remains (fluid roles): *Edwin Díaz | *Adam Ottavino | *Reed Garrett

*= closer-by-committee

Philadelphia Phillies – Suffering his first loss and having his 20-game scoreless streak snapped, Matt Strahm began the bottom of the tenth by issuing Heliot Ramos an intentional walk. With two runners on, he gave up a flyout by Wilmer Flores, advancing the “place” runner to third, and a sacrifice fly by Luis Matos, providing the game’s only run. Jeff Hoffman navigated around two hits and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless ninth. José Alvarado issued two walks, one intentional (Matos), and struck out one during a scoreless eighth. Orion Kerkering retired the side in the seventh, striking out two.

Hierarchy remains (match-up-based): *José Alvarado | *Jeff Hoffman | Orion Kerkering

*= closer-by-committee

San Diego Padres – In a non-save appearance, Jeremiah Estrada made history while closing a combined shutout against Miami and striking out the side. He’s retired his last 13 batters via strikeout, breaking a record set previously by José Alvarado. In this outing, he threw 12 pitches (83.3 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (25 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless over his last five games with multiple strikeouts in each, totaling 18 among 21 batters faced (85.7 K%) and a robust 23 percent swinging strike rate. Wandy Peralta retired the side in the eighth for his seventh hold.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Robert Suarez | Jeremiah Estrada | Yuki Matsui

San Francisco Giants – Benefiting from a walk-off rally in the bottom of the tenth, Sean Hjelle secured his second win by pitching two scoreless innings, with only one intentional walk to Kyle Schwarber. Tyler Rogers worked a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and striking out one. Spencer Howard logged four scoreless frames, scattering five hits and striking out four. Taylor Rogers turned in two scoreless innings, yielding a hit and striking out two. The relievers combined for 10 shutout innings; they used an “opener,” allowing seven hits and two walks while striking out nine.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Camilo Doval | Tyler Rogers | Ryan Walker

To no surprise, Closer Monkey’s filthy outing goes to Jeremiah Estrada, who recorded his 11th, 12th, and 13th straight strikeouts over his last three outings—video courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community. Stay safe and be well.

Please consider becoming a premium subscriber for a one-time $20 donation to the site, featuring full-text emails with charts, column blurbs, and ad-free analysis.

Tiered SOLDS Rankings; Week 10

Providing more coverage, our first attempt at tiered SOLDS rankings will reflect a mix of in-season results already accrued and rest-of-the-season potential. Rankings like this change rapidly, but here are 65 relievers in five tiers before game action on Tuesday, May 28.

Tier One

  • Emmanuel Clase (CLE)
  • Robert Suarez (SDP)
  • Ryan Helsley (STL)
  • Mason Miller (OAK)
  • Andrés Muñoz (SEA)

Tier Two

  • Clay Holmes (NYY)
  • Kyle Finnegan (WSH)
  • Evan Phillips (LAD) – should be activated this week
  • Josh Hader (HOU)
  • José Alvarado (PHI)
  • David Bednar (PIT)
  • Jhoan Durán (MIN)
  • Raisel Iglesias (ATL)
  • Tanner Scott (MIA)
  • Jeremiah Estrada (SDP)
  • Camilo Doval (SFG)
  • Alexis Díaz (CIN)
  • Craig Kimbrel (BAL)
  • Paul Sewald (ARI)
  • Trevor Megill (MIL)

Tier Three

  • Hunter Harvey (WSH)
  • JoJo Romero (STL)
  • Pete Fairbanks (TBR)
  • Kirby Yates (TEX)
  • Jordan Romano (TOR)
  • Jeff Hoffman (PHI)
  • James McArthur (KCR)
  • Griffin Jax (MIN)
  • A.J. Minter (ATL)
  • Fernando Cruz (CIN)
  • David Robertson (TEX)
  • Kenley Jansen (BOS)
  • Héctor Neris (CHC)

Tier Four

  • Yimi García (TOR)
  • Jason Adam (TBR)
  • Bryan Abreu (HOU)
  • Adam Ottavino (NYM)
  • Edwin Díaz (NYM)
  • Daniel Hudson (LAD)
  • Andrew Kittredge (STL)
  • Carlos Estévez (LAA)
  • Jason Foley (DET)
  • Yennier Cano (BAL)
  • Tyler Kinley (COL)
  • Bryan Hudson (MIL)
  • Cade Smith (CLE)
  • Ryan Walker (SFG)
  • Michael Kopech (CWS)
  • Jalen Beeks (COL)
  • Matt Strahm (PHI)
  • Luke Weaver (NYY)
  • Chris Martin (BOS)
  • Lucas Erceg (OAK)
  • Joe Jiménez (ATL)
  • Danny Coulombe (BAL)

Tier Five

  • Blake Treinen (LAD)
  • Garrett Cleavinger (TBR)
  • Luis García (LAA)
  • Ryan Thompson (ARI)
  • Hunter Gaddis (CLE)
  • Colin Holderman (PIT)
  • Elvis Peguero (MIL)
  • Reed Garrett (NYM)
  • Justin Slaten (BOS)
  • Ryan Pressly (HOU)

SOLDS Leaders 2024

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/wXS38/12/

SOLDS Leaders Last 30 Days

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9hi8X/1/

Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community. Stay safe and be well.

Statistical Credits:

Baseball-Reference.com

Fangraphs.com

Monkey Bytes; May 28

Monday’s 10-game slate resulted in four reliever wins and five saves. Colorado remained hot, snapping Cleveland’s win streak, with Jalen Beeks holding on for his fifth save. This hierarchy remains fluid in our designation, but Tyler Kinley had pitched in three of the previous four days. Lucas Sims secured his first save of the season, filling in for Alexis Díaz with a clean ninth against St. Louis sparking a high-five among vulture save chasers.

In case you missed it, an updated list of tiered rankings for closers was posted yesterday.

Our condensed and full game recaps cover all of Monday’s high-leverage events of interest, plus vulture save options for today and tomorrow.

Closer CliffsNotes

American League

(RP | MIN): Working around soft contact, Jhoan Durán recorded his seventh hold despite letting both inherited runners score and an unearned run on his ledger. He scattered two hits along with a hit batter.

(RP | SEA): Finishing a one-run over the Astros, Andrés Muñoz fired a clean top of the ninth while striking out two for his 11th save.  

(RP | TOR): Logging two scoreless frames, Nate Pearson recorded his first hold, giving up a hit and striking out two. 

National League

(RP | CHC): Entering with a one-run lead in the bottom of the eighth, Mark Leiter Jr. allowed four hits and four earned runs during two-thirds of an inning, resulting in his second loss and first blown save. 

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Héctor Neris | Mark Leiter Jr. | Tyson Miller

(RP | CIN): Filling affably for a resting Alexis Díaz, Lucas Sims shut the door on his first save this season, retiring the side and striking out two against the Cardinals. 

(RP | COL):  Closing out his fifth save, Jalen Beeks allowed two hits and an earned run while striking out two during a two-run win over the Guardians. He’s given up a run in four straight outings.

(RP | MIL): Turning in another strong outing, Bryan Hudson tossed two scoreless frames, allowing a hit and striking out three. He collected his third win following a five-run rally in the bottom of the eighth. He threw 32 pitches (23 strikes – 71.9 Strike%) and induced three whiffs. He owns a modest seven-game scoreless streak with 15 strikeouts against two walks over 11 innings. He’s also given up one earned run through his last 17 appearances since April 9, recording three wins and six holds across 25 innings.

Hierarchy remains (preferred save share with match-up based set-up): Trevor Megill | Elvis Peguero | Bryan Hudson

(RP | SDP): Robert Suarez preserved a one-run win over the Marlins by locking down his 16th save with a clean top of the ninth while striking out one. 

(RP | SFG): Earning his first major league win, Randy Rodríguez fired two clean frames and recorded one strikeout against the Phillies.

(RP | WSH): During a non-save appearance, Kyle Finnegan finished a four-run win in Atlanta, giving up two hits and striking out three in a scoreless bottom of the ninth. 

Vulture Save Options for Tuesday, May 28

  • Griffin Jax (MIN): Durán has appeared three times over the last four days, placing Jax on the radar for the vulture save chance.
  • Jeremiah Estrada (SDP): Suarez notched the save yesterday and has logged consecutive outings, leaving Estrada in line for the save chance today.
  • Ryne Stanek (SEA): He received Monday off and could be the option for the vulture save today, with Muñoz having pitched the two previous days.
  • The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets will play a doubleheader today; if desperate for a vulture save or doubling down with one of the relievers above, Blake Treinen or Adam Ottavino could be in play.

Vulture Save Options for Wednesday, May 29

  • Hunter Harvey (WSH): Based on usage patterns, he will be off today, but if Finnegan pitches this evening, he should get Wednesday off, putting Harvey in line for the save chance.

American League – Full Recaps

Minnesota Twins – Taking over with two runners on and two outs in the top of the ninth, leading by four, Jhoan Durán preserved the win with his seventh save. However, his outing began with a hit-by-pitch followed by an infield single, scoring a run. Although he induced a groundout to third, Willi Castro made a throwing error, scoring two of three runners, before a game-ending infield groundout by Bobby Witt Jr. It was all soft contact. Still, Durán allowed two hits and an unearned run over one-third of the ninth. Cole Sands gave up three hits and three earned runs during his two-thirds of the ninth. Griffin Jax tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar

Seattle Mariners – Nailing down his 11th save, Andrés Muñoz retired the side in the top of the ninth, recording two strikeouts. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in nine of 10 appearances in May while converting six saves with 16 strikeouts versus one walk over 11.1 innings. Gabe Speier secured his sixth hold, tossing a clean eighth and striking out one. Trent Thornton worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit for his sixth hold.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Andrés Muñoz | Ryne Stanek | Gabe Speier

Toronto Blue Jays – In a non-save outing against the White Sox, Génesis Cabrera tossed a scoreless bottom of the ninth, navigating around a hit and a walk. Zach Pop secured his third hold, stranding an inherited runner despite giving up a single during two-thirds scoreless. Erik Swanson allowed a home run (Gavin Sheets) and a single while only recording one out in the eighth. He was credited with his fifth hold. This snapped his modest five-game scoreless streak, and he’s now given up three home runs through 11 outings in May. Nate Pearson notched his first hold, logging two scoreless frames, yielding a hit, and striking out two.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Jordan Romano | Yimi García (HLR) | Erik Swanson

National League – Full Recaps

Cincinnati Reds – Locking down his first save this season, Lucas Sims fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%). This marks his first save since August 26, 2023, and he’s only allowed one earned run through 10 outings in May with nine strikeouts against one walk over eight innings. Sam Moll notched his second hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the eighth. Fernando Cruz faced five batters and recorded five strikeouts for his 10th hold. He threw 23 pitches (17 strikes – 73.9 Strike%) and generated nine whiffs (39.1 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Alexis Díaz | Lucas Sims| Fernando Cruz

Colorado Rockies – Despite allowing a run for a fourth straight appearance, Jalen Beeks held on for his fifth save, closing out a two-run win over Cleveland. He allowed a one-out double by Tyler Freeman and an RBI single by Andrés Giménez before striking out José Ramírez and inducing a game-ending pop-out by Josh Naylor. Beeks threw 18 pitches (13 strikes – 72.2 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). He’s converted five of seven save opportunities this month. Victor Vodnik turned in 1.1 scoreless innings, scattering two hits. Josh Rogers recorded his first win as the “bulk follower,” logging five innings, giving up four hits and two earned runs with two strikeouts. 

Hierarchy remains (match-up-based): *Tyler Kinley | *Jalen Beeks | Justin Lawrence

*= closer-by-committee

San Diego Padres – Save number 16 for Robert Suarez. He retired the side in the top of the ninth, recording one strikeout. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). He’s converted all 16 save chances this season and has been scoreless in 10 of 11 appearances in May, with 13 strikeouts against one walk over 12 innings. Yuki Matsui secured his sixth hold, allowing a hit and striking out two during a scoreless eighth. Adrian Morejon collected his first win, tossing two scoreless frames, issuing a walk, and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Robert Suarez | Jeremiah Estrada | Yuki Matsui

San Francisco Giants – Wrapping up a four-run win over the Phillies, Camilo Doval tossed a scoreless ninth, allowing a one-out double by Brandon Marsh before retiring the next two batters. He threw 19 pitches (9 strikes – 47.4 Strike%) without a whiff. This represents his second straight non-save outing. He’s logged 12 appearances in May, converting four of five save chances with 15 strikeouts against nine walks. Ryan Walker worked a scoreless eighth, issuing a walk. Erik Miller notched his ninth hold, giving up a hit during a scoreless seventh. Randy Rodríguez earned his first major league win, retiring all six batters faced and striking out one, throwing 16 pitches (13 strikes – 81.3 Strike%) with two whiffs. He’s recorded five straight scoreless outings.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Camilo Doval | Tyler Rogers | Ryan Walker

Washington Nationals – Working into, then out of trouble, Kyle Finnegan closed out a four-run win in Atlanta with a scoreless bottom of the ninth. After a lead-off single by Sean Murphy, Finnegan recorded two strikeouts, gave up a single by Orland Arcia, and then produced a game-ending strikeout of Jarred Kelenic. He threw 15 pitches (13 strikes – 86.7 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (40 SwStr%). Hunter Harvey retired the side in the eighth and recorded one strikeout. Derek Law gave up a hit, an earned run, and two walks over two-thirds of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains (mostly linear): Kyle Finnegan | Hunter Harvey | Dylan Floro

Closer Monkey’s filthy outing of the day goes to Fernando Cruz. He faced five Cardinals and recorded five strikeouts, video courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

In case you missed it, yesterday, an updated list of tiered rankings for closers was posted. Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community. Stay safe and be well.

Please consider becoming a premium subscriber for a one-time $20 donation to the site, featuring full-text emails with charts, column blurbs, and ad-free analysis.