As the sample sizes grow and teams pass the halfway point of the season, it helps break down performance in monthly splits. Using underlying metrics and hard statistical data, some intriguing names emerge in the June leaderboards with the Trade Deadline fast approaching.
League Saves
- 2024: 638 saves recorded through the end of June
- 2023: 636 saves recorded through the end of June
Blown Saves
- 2024: 367 blown saves recorded through the end of June
- 2023: 361 blown saves recorded through the end of June
Save Opportunites
- 2024: 1,005 save chances through the end of June
- 2023: 997 save chances through the end of June
It’s remarkable how closely aligned 2024 is with last season through the end of June. Taking this a step further, this chart illustrates the save distribution by relievers between the last two years:
Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/doZGP/1/
There are slight nuances between the two seasons, though Ryan Helsley is the only reliever in this comparison, with 30 saves at the end of the month. He’s joined by Emmanuel Clase (25) as the only two with more than 24.
Individual Results and Trends from June
Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/6xQYT/1/
Relievers cannot control their team’s performance, only the save situations they receive. Those with Andrés Muñoz on their roster do not like seeing Ryne Stanek accrue four saves in June, but he’s pitching through lingering back issues. On the other hand, fantasy managers with Trevor Megill must make alternate plans after the All-Star break with the pending return by Devin Williams.
In leagues with holds as a separate category, some new names are noted on the list, like Ryan Fernandez (STL), Austin Voth (SEA), and Cionel Pérez (BAL). Injuries or expanded leverage roles create opportunities in this format.
For those in leagues with SOLDS (saves plus holds):
Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/3yB4W/2/
Shifting into some underlying metrics, these four relievers met the following criteria: a K-BB percentage greater than 20 percent, a swinging strike rate above 16 percent, a strike percentage over 66 percent, and a percent contact rate allowed below 66 percent in June:
Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/GNtDn/1/
This group of qualified relievers attained three of the four metrics cited:
Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/wRKNQ/1/
Two key indicators for sustained success by relievers are K-BB percentage and swinging strike rate. Leaders from each category are as follows:
Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/QF0bt/2/
Strikeouts and WHIP (walks plus hits per inning pitched) should also be monitored closely by fantasy managers. Here are the leaders in these categories for June:
Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/JivPb/2/
It’s been a great three months providing content for the Closer Monkey community. Until next time, stay safe and be well.
Statistical Credits:
