Monkey Bytes, May 3: Doval records his sixth save, Game Recaps, and What to Watch For

Given the small six-game slate from Thursday yielding one save, today’s Monkey Bytes will follow a different format, combining both leagues into one recap.

Closer CliffsNotes from May 2

(RP | BAL): Entering in the top of the fifth, Keegan Akin stranded two runners, and collected his first win while tossing 1.1 innings, giving up a solo home run (Gleyber Torres) and a walk in his outing.

(RP | CHC): Allowing a walk-off, two-RBI double by Francisco Lindor, Daniel Palencia suffered his first loss of the season. 

(RP | COL): Despite recording three strikeouts over two combined innings, Justin Lawrence suffered his first loss when the “place” runner scored on a walk-off single in the bottom the tenth, scoring as an inherited runner.

(RP| MIA): Collecting his first win via a walk-off rally, Burch Smith retired the side in the top of the tenth while striking out two against the Rockies. 

(RP | NYM): A walk-off rally in the bottom of the 11th provided Danny Young with his first win of the season, and his MLB career. 

(RP | SFG): Securing his sixth save, Camilo Doval fired a clean bottom of the ninth in Boston, recording one strikeout.

Game Recaps from May 2

Baltimore Orioles – During an eventual 7-2 victory over the Yankees, Keegan Akin stranded two runners, and collected his first win while tossing 1.1 innings, giving up a solo home run (Gleyber Torres) and a walk in his outing. Danny Coulombe recorded two outs, yielding a hit and striking out one over two-thirds scoreless. Jacob Webb fired 1.1 clean frames, striking out three on 13 pitches (84.6 Strike%) and producing four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%). Cionel Pérez tossed a clean ninth, closing a five-run win, and recorded two strikeouts.

Hierarchy remains (for now): Craig Kimbrel | Yennier Cano | Danny Coulombe

Chicago Cubs – Suffering his first loss, Daniel Palencia tossed a clean bottom of the tenth, but in the 11th he hit Harrison Bader with a pitch, then gave up a walk-off, two-RBI double by Francisco Lindor. Héctor Neris fired a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out one on 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and inducing two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). This marked his first clean outing of the season. Yency Almonte retired the side in the eighth. Richard Lovelady was tagged with his first blown save, letting his only inherited runner score while giving up two hits and striking out two over 1.1 scoreless innings. Keegan Thompson allowed two hits, and three runs (one earned) while recording two strikeouts during his combined inning of relief.

Hierarchy remains: Héctor Neris | Mark Leiter Jr. | Adbert Alzolay

Colorado Rockies – Taking over with a runner on, and one out, Jalen Beeks let the game-winning run score on a walk-off, RBI single by Jesús Luzárdo in the bottom of the tenth, letting his only inherited runner score. Beeks also issued a walk and retired one during his appearance. Justin Lawrence suffered his second loss, allowing an unearned run and striking out three over two combined innings. He threw 22 pitches (15 strikes – 68.2 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%). Ty Blach logged four scoreless frames as the “bulk follower”, scattering three hits and striking out two.

After the game, the team placed Lawrence on paternity leave, he could be activated later this weekend.

Updated hierarchy: Justin Lawrence | Jake Bird / Jalen Beeks

Miami Marlins – Benefiting from a walk-off in the bottom of the tenth, Burch Smith collected his first win of the season, firing a clean top of the frame while striking out two. He’s been scoreless in six of his last seven outings. Anthony Maldonado navigated around two hits and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless ninth. He threw 19 pitches (11 strikes – 57.9 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (26.3 SwStr%) keeping the game tied. Anthony Bender worked a scoreless eighth, walking one and striking out one. Andrew Nardi fired a clean seventh, striking out two on nine pitches (88.8 Strike%) with three whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Anthony Maldonado

New York Mets – Even though he allowed an unearned run in the top of the 11th, Danny Young collected his first win of the season, and his MLB career, when his teammates provided a walk-off rally in the bottom of the frame. He gave up two hits and a walk while striking out one. Edwin Díaz fired two clean innings, recording two strikeouts. He threw 24 pitches (54.2 Strike%) and produced three whiffs. This marked the ninth time in his career he’s pitched at least two innings, and the first since August 4, 2022. Reed Garrett turned in a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and a walk. Jake Diekman tossed a scoreless seventh, walking one and striking out two. Dedniel Núñez allowed two hits and an earned run while striking out one in the sixth.

Hierarchy remains: Edwin Díaz | Adam Ottavino | Reed Garrett

San Francisco Giants – Shutting the door on his sixth save, Camilo Doval fired a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out one against the 6-7-8 Red Sox hitters. He threw 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) and induced four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). He owns a 1.29 WHIP with 15 strikeouts versus six walks over 11.2 innings. Tyler Rogers notched his sixth hold, tossing a clean eighth and striking out one. Erik Miller worked a clean seventh, striking out one for his fourth hold. Ryan Walker collected his fourth win, giving up a hit and striking out one in a scoreless sixth.

Hierarchy remains: Camilo Doval | Tyler Rogers | Ryan Walker

What to Watch For (Weekend Edition)

American League

BAL: When does Craig Kimbrel return and how does he fare in his next save chance?

BOS: Will Kenley Jansen record his first save since April 20?

CWS: Does Pedro Grifol start formulating a stable high-leverage structure?

DET: Will A.J. Hinch keep playing match-ups in the late innings or does Jason Foley remain the primary save share?

LAA: How does Carlos Estévez respond to two blown saves over his last four opportunities?

TBR: Can Jason Adam emerge as the preferred save option with Pete Fairbanks sidelined?

National League

ARI: Any updates on the status or timeline for Paul Sewald?

CHC: Did Héctor Neris become his team’s ride-or-die in the ninth inning? Can he remain averse from regression toward the mean?

MIA: A new month hopefully means Tanner Scott can build his trade stock with a strong performance, if not, who emerges as an option for saves?

MIL: Will Joel Payamps and Trevor Megill keep sharing save chances or can one emerge as the preferred option? Will there be any updates on the rehab status for Devin Williams?

PHI: The “floating closer” concept lives on, who rules the weekend for save chances?

PIT: Will the real David Bednar please stand up, please stand up?

Vulture Save Options for Friday, May 3

CHC: Neris has pitched in three of the last four days, putting Mark Leiter Jr. or, gulp, Adbert Alzolay in line for a save chance this afternoon.

NYM: “Sugar” Díaz logged a two-inning outing, and even though Adam Ottavino’s on a heater, the team has used him as the HLR in these sorts of games while Jorge López receives the ancillary save chances.

Closer Monkey’s filthy outing of the day goes to Edwin Díaz, including these two strikeouts in the ninth inning, 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 2: Holmes and Finnegan secure their 10th saves, A career-first save for a Miami reliever, Game Recaps, and more

Wednesday’s slate yielded eight saves, but three were of the ancillary variety. Two relievers closed out their 10th save of the season. Clay Holmes worked a multiple-inning save in Baltimore while Kyle Finnegan fired a clean ninth in Texas. These high-leverage events, and the rest of interest, covered next in our daily installment of Monkey Bytes, with the Closer CliffsNotes leading off for those working under time constraints.

Closer CliffsNotes from May 1

American League

(RP | CWS): Suffering his first loss, and second blown save, Dominic Leone gave up two hits and two earned runs over two-thirds innings.

(RP | CLE): Shutting the door on his ninth save, Emmanuel Clase fired a clean bottom of the tenth, stranding the “place” runner, and striking out one, preserving a one-run win in Houston. 

(RP | DET): Not only did Alex Lange strand an inherited runner in the top of the eighth, he returned for the ninth, securing his second save while tossing 1.1 scoreless frames, walking one, and striking out two. 

(RP | HOU): Taking over in the top of the tenth, Shawn Dubin suffered his first loss, allowing a hit, an unearned run, and two walks while striking out one.

(RP | NYY): Locking down his 10th save, Clay Holmes turned in 1.2 scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out three, preserving a combined shutout in Baltimore. 

(RP | OAK): Appearing on consecutive days for the second time this season, Mason Miller preserved a combined shutout, in a non-save capacity, firing a clean top of the ninth and recording one strikeout. 

National League

(RP | ATL): Working into, then out of trouble, Raisel Iglesias closed out his eighth save, navigating around a hit and a walk for a scoreless ninth in Seattle. 

(RP | CHC): Save number five for Héctor Neris, navigating around a hit batter and a double with a game-ending double play on a flyout and a runner thrown out at home against the Mets. 

(RP | CIN): Losing his eight-game scoreless streak, Fernando Cruz suffered his second loss, giving up a grand slam in the bottom of the seventh against the Padres. 

(RP | MIA): Rookie Anthony Maldonado recorded his first major league save, firing a clean top of the ninth and striking out one against the Rockies. 

(RP | PHI): With pin the tail on the ninth inning landing on Gregory Soto, he responded by securing his second save, working around two hits, and striking out one, preserving a one-run win over the Angels. 

(RP | SDP): Bouncing back during a high-leverage spot, Enyel De Los Santos collected his first win, stranding two runners while striking out his only batter faced (Luke Maile) in the seventh, ahead of his team’s four-run rally in the bottom of the frame. 

(RP | WSH): Preserving a 1-0 win in Texas, Kyle Finnegan recorded his 10th save, firing a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out the side. 

Game Recaps from May 1 – American League

Cleveland Guardians – Retiring the side in the bottom of the tenth, and stranding the “place” runner, Emmanuel Clase recorded his ninth save, preserving a one-run win in Houston. He threw five pitches (80 Strike%) and induced one whiff (20 SwStr%) while striking out one in his outing. He owns a 0.80 WHIP with 16 strikeouts against one walk over 16.1 innings and converted nine of 11 save chances. Cade Smith collected his first win, retiring both batters faced in the ninth, stranding a runner. Tim Herrin worked two-thirds scoreless combined inning, yielding a hit. Scott Barlow tossed two-thirds scoreless in the eighth, allowing a hit.

Updated hierarchy: Emmanuel Clase | Scott Barlow / Nick Sandlin

Chicago White Sox – Another rough day for the leverage ladder. Steven Wilson was credited with his fourth hold despite allowing two unearned runs and issuing three walks over two-thirds of the sixth. Dominic Leone suffered his first loss, and second blown save, giving up two earned runs and two walks while striking out two over two-thirds combined innings. Tim Hill let both inherited runners score, yielding two hits during two-thirds scoreless. Tanner Banks gave up two earned runs on three hits and recorded a strikeout over 1.1 innings. John Brebbia also permitted both inherited runners to score on three hits putting two earned runs on his ledger and striking out one in two-thirds of the ninth.

Hierarchy remains (for now): *Michael Kopech | *Steven Wilson | John Brebbia

*= closer-by-committee

Detroit Tigers – After taking over in the eighth with two runners on and two outs, Alex Lange quelled the threat, striking out Willson Contreras. Lange returned for the ninth and worked around a two-out walk to Paul Goldschmidt with a game-ending strikeout of Alec Burleson. During his 1.1 scoreless frames, he threw 24 pitches (58.3 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s been scoreless over his last seven outings, spanning 7.2 innings with nine strikeouts against two walks and a 0.52 WHIP. Joey Wentz was awarded his first hold, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out one in a combined scoreless inning of relief. Will Vest gave up two hits during two-thirds scoreless in the seventh. (Jason Foley had appeared in three of the previous four days).

Hierarchy remains (for now): Jason Foley | Alex Lange | Andrew Chafin

Houston Astros – Entering a tied game in the top of the eighth, Rafael Montero worked around a hit with a scoreless outing. Ryan Pressly tossed a scoreless ninth, allowing a hit and striking out three. He threw 22 pitches (14 strikes – 63.6 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). Shawn Dubin suffered his first loss, giving up a hit, an unearned run, and two walks while striking out one in the top of the tenth.

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

New York Yankees – Forced into an extended outing, Clay Holmes responded, recording his first five-out save of the season, and third of his career, closing out a combined shutout in Baltimore. He allowed a hit and recorded three strikeouts, throwing 23 pitches (20 strikes – 87 Strike%) and producing four whiffs (17.4 SwStr%) while securing his 10th save. He also owns an 11-game scoreless streak with 15 strikeouts versus one walk over his last 10.2 innings. Ian Hamilton gets credit for his fifth hold, issuing a walk and hitting a batter over one-third of the eighth before his removal. Caleb Ferguson stranded a runner in the seventh, striking out both batters faced for his fifth hold.

Hierarchy remains: Clay Holmes | Ian Hamilton | Victor González

Oakland A’s – While warming for a potential save chance, his teammates tacked on a run in the bottom of the eighth. But, Mason Miller turned in a clean top of the ninth, preserving a combined shutout in a non-save outing. He threw 10 pitches (80 Strike%) and induced one whiff while striking out one. He’s been scoreless in his last 11 appearances with 28 strikeouts against three walks over 13.1 innings. Michael Kelly retired his only batter in the eighth, recording his first hold and stranding two runners. Dany Jiménez walked two over two-thirds scoreless in the eighth for his second hold.

Hierarchy remains: Mason Miller | Lucas Erceg | Dany Jiménez

Game Recaps from May 1 – National League

Atlanta Braves – Despite allowing a lead-off walk and a hit in the bottom of the ninth, Raisel Iglesias bore down, retiring the next three batters on two flyouts and a game-ending comebacker, securing his eighth save. He threw 17 pitches (10 strikes – 58.8 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%). He’s posted a 1.05 WHIP with nine strikeouts through his first 12.1 innings. Joe Jiménez turned in a clean eighth for his eighth hold. A.J. Minter worked around a walk and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless one-third of the seventh, notching his fourth hold and stranding a runner.

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

Chicago Cubs – Securing his fifth save, Héctor Neris worked about a hit batter and a double for a scoreless ninth, preserving a 1-0 win, courtesy of a game-ending double play flyout with the runner thrown out at home. Neris threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) without getting a whiff. He’s converted five straight saves over his last five appearances despite a 1.40 WHIP with four strikeouts against four walks across five innings. Yency Almonte stranded two runners, striking out both batters faced in the eighth for his sixth hold. Mark Leiter Jr. was credited with his sixth hold, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out one in one-third of the eighth. 

Hierarchy remains: Héctor Neris | Mark Leiter Jr. | Adbert Alzolay 

Cincinnati Reds – Rough outing alert for Fernando Cruz. He suffered his second loss, allowing three hits, including a go-ahead grand slam by Jake Cronenworth, and a walk with a strikeout during his one-third of the seventh. Brent Suter took over, recording 1.2 scoreless frames and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Alexis Díaz | Fernando Cruz / Lucas Sims

Miami Marlins – Handed a three-run lead in the top of the ninth, Anthony Maldonado retired the side and recorded a strikeout for his first career major league save. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). Tanner Scott stranded a runner in the eighth, appearing for a third straight game despite issuing a walk. Bryan Hoeing secured his second hold, tossing 1.2 scoreless frames and yielding a hit.

Updated hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Anthony Maldonado

Philadelphia Phillies – Running the “floating closer” concept, Rob Thomson pulled the strings while finishing a one-run win over the Angels. Gregory Soto navigated around two hits and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless ninth, notching his second save. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%). José Alvarado held on for his second hold, working around three hits, and benefited from a caught stealing, erasing a baserunner while throwing 24 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with three whiffs (12.5 SwStr%). Orion Kerkering tossed a scoreless seventh, walking one and striking out two for his first hold. Matt Strahm fired a clean sixth while striking out two, securing his third hold. 

Hierarchy remains: *José Alvarado | *Jeff Hoffman | Orion Kerkering

*= closer-by-committee

San Diego Padres – Making a non-save appearance, Robert Suarez retired the side in the ninth, closing out a four-run win over the Reds, throwing 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s riding a 10-game scoreless streak, converting all seven save chances with six strikeouts against two walks over 9.2 innings. Wandy Peralta turned in a clean eighth. Enyel De Los Santos collected his first win, stranding two runners and retiring his only batter faced (Luke Maile) via strikeout. Yuki Matsui issued two walks and recorded two strikeouts during two-thirds scoreless in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Robert Suarez | Yuki Matsui | Enyel De Los Santos

Washington Nationals – Nailing down his 10th save, Kyle Finnegan fired a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out the side while preserving a 1-0 win in Texas. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%). He owns an eight-game scoreless streak, converting all six save chances with nine strikeouts against one walk through eight innings. Hunter Harvey stranded a runner and logged 1.1 scoreless frames, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out two for his 10th hold. Dylan Floro worked two-thirds scoreless in the seventh, issuing a walk for his fourth hold.

Updated hierarchy: Kyle Finnegan | Hunter Harvey | Dylan Floro

Vulture Save Options for May 2

CLE: With the bullpen overworked after four straight extra-inning contests, a save chance today could fall upon Nick Sandlin, for those seeking a save on this six-game slate.

MIA: Tanner Scott’s now appeared in three straight, so it will either be Andrew Nardi or Anthony Maldonado for the save if provided this afternoon.

NYY: If the Yankees prefer giving Holmes the day off after logging a five-out save, they’ve preferred Victor González for the vulture save chances. If Holmes pitches, this will repeat for tomorrow’s slate.

Vulture Save Options for May 3

CHC: If Neris pitches on Thursday, it will be appearances on consecutive days, and three of the last four, placing Keegan Thompson on the radar for a multi-inning save chance on Friday.

WSH: If they use Finnegan and Harvey on Thursday, they should receive Friday off. If Floro does not pitch, he’s the vulture save choice, if he does, pivot to Matt Barnes and pray.

Closer Monkey’s filthy outing of the day goes to Kyle Finnegan, striking out the side in Texas, courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community. Since tomorrow’s post will be light, April leaderboards will be covered in this post. 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 1: Hader logs two innings, Muñoz posts his first five-out save, Durán debuts, Game Recaps, and more

Chaos did not reign supreme but was sprinkled throughout Tuesday’s 16-game slate. Detroit deployed a match-up-based approach during Game 1, which backfired. There were two ancillary saves, two first saves of the season, though one was by a closer returning from injury. In all, nine saves were secured and five blown saves, recapped in our condensed CliffsNotes and full recaps below.

Closer CliffsNotes

American League

(RP | BAL): Locking down his first save, Jacob Webb retired all four batters, including three via strikeout, closing out a two-run win over the Yankees. 

(RP | CWS): Entering with the score tied in the top of the ninth, Michael Kopech suffered his third loss, giving up a walk, a hit, and an earned run while striking out one.

(RP | CLE): For a third straight appearance, Hunter Gaddis suffered a blown save, and in this contest, his first loss of the season, allowing a walk-off, two-run home run by Victor Caratini in the bottom of the tenth in Houston. 

(RP | DET): Matching up with the Cardinals’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket, Shelby Miller suffered his third loss, and second blown save, allowing three hits and two earned runs in the top of the ninth during Game 1. 

(RP | DET): Despite letting both inherited runners score after giving up a three-run home run, Tyler Holton collected his second win, courtesy of his teammates three-run rally in the bottom of the fifth in Game 2. He logged 1.1 innings, allowing one hit, one earned run, and a walk. 

(RP | HOU): During his first multi-inning outing since August 2020, Josh Hader let the “place” runner score in the top of the tenth but collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off home run in the bottom of the frame.

(RP | KCR): Securing his seventh save, James McArthur fired a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out one, preserving a 4-1 win over Toronto.

(RP | LAA): Although he stranded a runner in the eighth, Carlos Estévez could not convert his save chance. He suffered his first loss while giving up two home runs in the top of the ninth resulting in three earned runs. 

(RP | MIN): Making his season debut, Jhoan Durán worked a scoreless bottom of the ninth, giving up a hit and striking out one for his first save. 

(RP | OAK): Nailing down his eighth save, Mason Miller fired a clean ninth against the Pirates, striking out the side. 

(RP | SEA): Forced into action in the eighth inning, Andrés Muñoz recorded his fifth save, and his first requiring five outs, closing out a one-run win over Atlanta. 

National League

(RP | ARI): Courtesy of a walk-off home run, Scott McGough collected his first win. However, he did let the “place” runner score in the top of the tenth and issued two walks during his outing. 

(RP | CHC): With no favors from his defense, Adbert Alzolay was tagged with his third loss, allowing two hits after a throwing error by Dansby Swanson, including a go-ahead three-run home run by D.J. Stewart. 

(RP | COL): Taking over in the ninth with two runners on, Justin Lawrence could not stem the tide, giving up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk over his one-third of an inning, resulting in his first blown save.

(RP | LAD): Even though he tossed a clean bottom of the ninth keeping the game tied, Nabil Crismatt suffered his first loss, serving up a walk-off, two-run home run by Christian Walker in the tenth. 

(RP | MIA): Although let the “place” runner score on a two-out double by Ryan McMahon in the top of the tenth, Tanner Scott collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the frame. 

(RP | NYM): Converting his second save of the season, Jorge López allowed a hit and an earned run during a two-run win over the Cubs. 

(RP | PHI): Locking down his second save, Jeff Hoffman fired a clean bottom of the ninth, capping his team’s comeback rally in the top of the frame. José Alvarado collected his first win, tossing a scoreless eighth, allowing a hit and striking out one. 

(RP | SDP): Save number 10 for Robert Suarez. He fired a clean top of the ninth, preserving a two-run over the Reds while recording one strikeout. 

(RP | STL): Nailing down his tenth save, Ryan Helsley fired a clean bottom of the ninth during Game 1 in Detroit, while striking out two. 

Game Recaps – American League

Baltimore Orioles – Despite receiving treatment, closer Craig Kimbrel was not available in this contest, but Jacob Webb filled in affably, retiring all four batters faced, three via strikeout, for his first save of the season. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and generated seven whiffs (46.7 SwStr%). He owns a 0.90 WHIP with 12 strikeouts versus three walks over his first 12 innings. Keegan Akin recorded two outs, and allowed a hit during two-thirds scoreless in the eighth.

Hierarchy remains (for now): Craig Kimbrel | Yennier Cano | Danny Coulombe

Chicago White Sox – Taking over a tied game in the top of the ninth, Michael Kopech issued Byron Buxton a lead-off walk, a high-leverage no-no. After recording a strikeout, Kopech allowed a one-out single by Manuel Margot and a go-ahead sacrifice fly, scoring the game-winning run, handing him his third loss of the season. He gave up a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one on 22 pitches (15 strikes – 68.2 Strike%) with three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%). Prelander Berroa hit a batter and recorded an out during his season debut, stranding two runners. Jordan Leasure was tagged with his first blown save, allowing two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one over two-thirds of the eighth. Steven Wilson fired a clean seventh, striking out one for his third hold.

Hierarchy remains (for now): *Michael Kopech | *Steven Wilson | John Brebbia

Cleveland Guardians – For a third straight outing, Hunter Gaddis suffered a blown save, allowing a walk-off, two-run home run in the bottom of the tenth after recording two quick outs. This represents his first loss of the season as well. Emmanuel Clase tossed a scoreless ninth, facing the Astros’ 3-4-5-6 hitters, yielding a hit. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) without a whiff. Nick Sandlin logged 1.2 scoreless frames, allowing a hit, his first by a right-handed batter all season (Jose Altuve). Tim Herrin recorded two strikeouts and issued a walk over two-thirds combined innings. Scott Barlow worked two-thirds scoreless, giving up a hit and striking out one.

Updated hierarchy: Emmanuel Clase | Scott Barlow / Nick Sandlin

Detroit Tigers – (Game 1): Entering with a 1-0 lead in the ninth, Shelby Miller matched up with the Cardinals’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket, but could not close out a win, allowing three consecutive one-out singles, scoring the tying run, then a go-ahead sacrifice fly. He suffered his third loss, and second blown save as a result of his outing. Jason Foley recorded his first hold, stranding an inherited runner in the eighth working around a single by Iván Herrera, then retiring the 1-2 hitters in the lineup. Andrew Chafin stranded a runner in the seventh, recorded an out in the eighth, and departed with a runner on in the eighth, securing his fourth hold.

(Game 2): Taking over in the top of the fifth, Tyler Holton let both inherited runners score, and an earned run on his ledger, allowing a three-run home run by Alec Burleson, but collected his second win over a combined inning of relief. Alex Faedo was credited with his first hold, tossing two innings, giving up three hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out three. Alex Lange worked 1.1 scoreless frames, walking one and striking out one, finishing the five-run win. This extended his scoreless streak to six games, during which he’s posted seven strikeouts versus one walk through 6.1 innings.

Hierarchy remains (for now): Jason Foley | Alex Lange | Andrew Chafin

Houston Astros -Making his first multiple-inning appearance in the regular season since August 14, 2020, Josh Hader allowed a two-out RBI double, scoring the “place” runner, but collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off in the bottom of the tenth. He racked up four strikeouts and issued one walk over his two innings, throwing 33 pitches (19 strikes – 57.6 Strike%) with seven whiffs (21.2 SwStr%). Ryan Pressly tossed a scoreless eighth, walking one and striking out one. Bryan Abreu navigated around two walks and recorded two strikeouts for a scoreless seventh. Rafael Montero suffered his second blown save, allowing his only inherited runner to score, serving up a three-run home run by Estevan Florial.

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

Kansas City Royals – Save number seven for “The General”. James McArthur fired a clean bottom of the ninth while recording one strikeout. He threw 17 pitches (10 strikes – 58.9 Strike%) and induced one whiff, facing a 4-5-6 lineup pocket for Toronto. He owns a nine-game scoreless streak, converting all seven save chances with 12 strikeouts versus two walks over 10.2 innings. John Schreiber secured his seventh hold, logging 1.1 clean frames and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: James McArthur | John Schreiber | Chris Stratton

Los Angeles Angels – After a calm start to the season, things have turned quickly for Carlos Estévez. He suffered his second blown save, and first loss, allowing a game-tying home run by Nick Castellanos in the top of the ninth, followed by a two-run, go-ahead home run by Johan Rojas. His final line featured three hits allowed with three earned runs while striking out two over two-thirds combined innings, he stranded a runner in the eighth. He’s allowed a run in three of his last four outings, and multiple runs in two (3.2 IP, six earned runs, 2.16 WHIP). Amir Garrett recorded the last two outs of the ninth but gave up a hit and a walk while striking out one in the process. Matt Moore was credited with his sixth hold, giving up two hits and an earned run with one strikeout over two-thirds of the eighth. Luis García notched his third hold, firing a clean seventh and striking out one. 

Updated hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | Luis García

Minnesota Twins – Fresh off the injured list and right back into the high-leverage mix, Jhoan Durán recorded his first save of the season, preserving a one-run win over the White Sox. He worked around a lead-off single by Tommy Pham with two groundouts and a game-ending strikeout of Andrew Vaughn. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%). Caleb Thielbar collected his first win, retiring both batters in the eighth and stranding a runner. Cole Sands suffered his first blown save, allowing two hits, including a game-tying solo home run by Andrew Benintendi over one-third of the eighth.

Confirmed hierarchy: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar

Oakland A’s – Closing out a three-run win, Mason Miller nailed down his eighth save, striking out the side against the Pirates. He threw 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%). He ends April on a 10-game scoreless streak, recording a save in each of his last eight games, and posting a robust 27 strikeouts versus three walks over 12.1 innings. Lucas Erceg fired a clean eighth, also striking out the side on 14 pitches (64.3 Strike%) with one whiff. Mitch Spence earned his third win, logging three scoreless frames, yielding a hit, and striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Mason Miller | Lucas Erceg | Dany Jiménez

Seattle Mariners – Recording the first five-out save of his career, Andrés Muñoz stranded one of two runners in the top of the eighth and retired five of seven batters faced while striking out three for his fifth save. His outing was a bit shaky at the beginning, making a throwing error and intentionally walking Matt Olson, but he settled in, striking out Marcell Ozuna and inducing an inning-ending groundout by Orlando Arcia, then firing a clean ninth. Muñoz threw 27 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and generated eight whiffs (29.6 SwStr%). He owns a modest four-game scoreless streak and has recorded a save in his last three contests. Ryne Stanek struggled but was credited with his sixth hold, allowing three hits and two earned runs (for now) over one-third of the eighth. He’s given up at least a run in his last three appearances.

Adjusted hierarchy: Andrés Muñoz | Ryne Stanek | Gabe Speier

Game Recaps – National League

Arizona Diamondbacks – Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Scott McGough collected his first win despite letting the “place” runner score in the top of the 10th and issuing two walks during his outing. Kevin Ginkel fired a clean ninth, keeping the contest tied during an impromptu bullpen game. Ryan Thompson logged two scoreless frames, walking one and striking out one. Joe Mantiply suffered his first blown save, allowing one of three inherited runners to score in the fifth inning. He logged 1.2 innings, giving up two hits and an earned run while striking out two. Justin Martinez struggled with his command over one-third of the fifth, issuing two walks and yielding a hit before being removed. He was credited with his first hold but only threw eight strikes among his 18 pitches (44.4 Strike%).

Hierarchy remains: Kevin Ginkel | Ryan Thompson | Joe Mantiply

Chicago Cubs – Suffering his third loss, Adbert Alzolay gave up two hits and three unearned runs during the bottom of the sixth. After he recorded a pop-out against Pete Alonso, J.D. Martinez reached on a throwing error, and Tyrone Taylor singled with two outs before a three-run home run by D.J. Stewart, providing the difference in the contest. Alzolay threw 22 pitches (16 strikes – 72.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains: Hector Neris | Mark Leiter Jr. | Adbert Alzolay 

Colorado Rockies – Death, taxes, and high-leverage meltdowns by the Rockies bullpen. Entering in the bottom of the ninth, Justin Lawrence took over with two runners on and issued a walk, allowing a two-RBI single, another single, hit a batter (Jesús Sánchez), and a sacrifice fly, tying the game, then was removed. Lawrence let both inherited runners score, giving up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk during his one-third of an inning, resulting in his first blown save. Jalen Beeks took over, recording a strikeout, issuing an intentional walk, and induced an inning-ending flyout. He returned for the tenth, giving up an RBI double by Bryan De La Cruz scoring the “place” runner and a walk-off single, handing him his second loss.

Hierarchy remains: Justin Lawrence | Jake Bird / Nick Mears

Miami Marlins – Taking over the top of the tenth, Tanner Scott recorded two quick outs, then allowed an RBI double by Ryan McMahon, and finished with two strikeouts, along with issuing an intentional walk (Elias Díaz). Despite this, Scott collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off in the bottom of the frame. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Calvin Faucher

Los Angeles Dodgers – Handed a one-run lead in the bottom of the tenth, Nabil Crismatt suffered his first loss, allowing a walk-off, two-run home run by Christian Walker, after tossing a clean ninth. Daniel Hudson suffered his first blown save in the eighth, giving up three hits and an earned run. Joe Kelly secured his seventh hold, tossing a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Evan Phillips | Daniel Hudson | Joe Kelly

New York Mets – Although he allowed an earned run in the top of the ninth, Jorge López recorded his second save of the season, wrapping up a two-run win over the Cubs. His outing began with a lead-off double by Mike Tauchman, who scored on consecutive groundouts. López threw 21 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced two whiffs. Adam Ottavino notched his fourth hold, firing a clean eighth against the Cubs’ 3-4-5 hitters, and recording one strikeout. Reed Garrett worked a scoreless seventh, walking one and striking out one for his first hold. Sean Reid-Foley collected his first win, tossing a scoreless sixth, walking one, and striking out one. 

Hierarchy remains: Edwin Díaz | Adam Ottavino | Reed Garrett

Philadelphia Phillies – Following a three-run rally in the top of the ninth, Jeff Hoffman recorded his second save with a clean outing while striking out one against the Angels. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%) against the 8-9-1 batters. This outing extended his scoreless streak to nine games, during which he owns a 0.80 WHIP with 11 strikeouts against two walks over 8.2 innings. José Alvarado collected his first win, allowing a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth, throwing 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) with three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains: *José Alvarado | *Jeff Hoffman | Orion Kerkering

*= closer-by-committee

San Diego Padres – Securing his 10th save, Robert Suarez fired a clean top of the ninth, preserving a two-run win over the Reds. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (25 SwStr%). He ends April with a 0.87 WHIP, converting all 10 save chances with 11 strikeouts against four walks through his first 12 appearances this season. Yuki Matsui notched his fourth hold, logging 1.2 clean frames and striking out two. Enyel De Los Santos was credited with his fourth hold despite serving up two solo home runs over two-thirds combined innings.

Adjusted hierarchy: Robert Suarez | Yuki Matsui | Enyel De Los Santos

St. Louis Cardinals – (Game 1): Capping a ninth-inning rally, Ryan Helsley slammed the door on his 10th save, firing a clean bottom of the ninth while recording two strikeouts. He threw 10 pitches (all strikes) inducing three whiffs (30 SwStr%) and finished April with a 0.94 WHIP while racking up 19 strikeouts versus two walks over 16 innings. Matthew Liberatore garnered his first win after tossing a clean eighth and striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | JoJo Romero

Vulture Save Options for Wednesday, May 1

BAL: If Craig Kimbrel remains unavailable, remaining hopeful Yennier Cano receives the save chance.

CWS: It’s a long shot, but Kopech’s pitched in four of the previous five days, placing Steven Wilson in line for the save chance.

HOU: Hader threw 33 pitches over two innings last night, which puts Ryan Pressly at the top of the vulture list for a save chance versus Cleveland today.

LAA: Working on back-to-back days will put Estévez on the sideline today, and the last time he was, Ron Washington called upon Luis García for the save.

MIA: Scott’s appeared in two straight, so Andrew Nardi could receive the save chance today.

PHI: Hoffman’s pitched in three of the last four and Alvarado’s worked in two of the last three. He could get the save or if the team prefers resting him, Orion Kerkering may finally get his first save opportunity.

SEA: Muñoz recorded his first career five-out save and should get today off, putting Gabe Speier on our radar for the save chance, especially if Olson hits in the ninth.

Vulture Save Options for Thursday, May 2

*This will only be a six-game slate, so tread lightly and monitor usage patterns today.

CLE: If Clase pitches on Wednesday, it will be four outings in five days. Nick Sandlin has emerged as an ancillary option and could be a sneaky play on getaway day.

HOU: If Pressly pitches today it will be two-in-a-row, and Hader needs another day of rest, Bryan Abreu could be in line for the save on Thursday.

Closer Monkey’s filthy outing of the day goes to perhaps the American League Reliever of the month, Mason Miller, striking out the side against Pittsburgh, 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.