Monkey Bytes: August 31

Before delving into Friday’s game action, the site experienced an attack yesterday and was down for most of the evening, and I apologize. Pittsburgh announced a change in their leverage roles before yesterday’s game.

Three Takeaways

  • Bednar removed as closer: In a pregame press conference, Derek Shelton confirmed David Bednar was removed as the closer for the Pirates in the short term and will work in lower leveraged appearances. This feels like an attempt at the Craig Kimbrel reset; the Orioles succeeded once earlier this season. Bednar must improve his results with his secondary pitches (split-finger and curve) and the command of his four-seam fastball. It’s tough being successful as the closer, with a 2.18 WHIP in the second half. Shelton brought up the dreaded committee approach. Aroldis Chapman has recorded four wins, seven holds, and a blown save since the All-Star break with 26 strikeouts versus four walks (36.1 K-BB%), a 0.81 WHIP, and a 17.2 swinging strike percentage through 16 games. He should be the preferred save share. Dennis Santana could also be in the mix. He’s notched a win and two holds with 22 strikeouts versus two walks (28.6 K-BB%) with a 0.74 WHIP in the second half across 16 appearances spanning 19 innings. We prefer Chapman, he’s the team’s highest-paid player and should treated as such in upcoming save chances. Our adjusted hierarchy: *Aroldis Chapman | *Dennis Santana | Kyle Nicolas
  • Hendriks’ potential return looming: Depending on Boston’s playoff chances down the stretch, the team may take a sneak preview at their potential closer for 2025, Liam Hendriks. He’s targeting a return on September 6 against his former team, the White Sox. He’s been scoreless over his last two appearances at Triple-A, though neither outing has been clean. With Kenley Jansen on the precipice of free agency, he may cede save chances in the last two weeks if they are not contending for a postseason berth. Hendriks should be eased into leverage chances, but stay tuned on his performance and evolving role upon activation. 
  • Dodgers and fluidity: It’s frustrating from a fantasy perspective, but the Dodgers are focused on winning the division, not how reliever roles are defined. Michael Kopech and Evan Phillips have shared saves since August 16, with Kopech recording three and Phillips two. While avidly watching games, it may depend on the situation and lineup lanes assigned before the series match-ups. Both will be viable, but for those seeking a label, it may not happen over the remainder of the season and in the playoffs.

Friday’s 16-game slate featured a doubleheader sweep by the Brewers over the Reds. Six relievers recorded wins, though two resulted from a blown save (Kenley Jansen and Josh Hader), and eight saves were converted. Closer Monkey congratulates Emmanuel Clase on becoming the franchise leader in saves, recording his 150th for Cleveland. Our condensed recaps cover the high-leverage events of interest for each team.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Dylan Floro (ARI) allowed Max Muncy’s double at the top of the sixth and was removed after recording two outs. Floro was tagged with his fourth loss by the official scorer when Muncy scored the go-ahead run on a wild pitch by Joe Manitply. 
  • Hierarchy remains: Justin Martinez | A.J. Puk | Ryan Thomson
  • Seranthony Domínguez (BAL) allowed two hits, including Brendon Rodgers’ solo home run, but held on for his eighth save, finishing a two-run win in Colorado. All five runs Domínguez has allowed as an Oriole have been on solo home runs, but he’s converted all six save chances since August 2 with 11 strikeouts against three walks over eight innings.
  • Hierarchy remains: Seranthony Domínguez | Yennier Cano | Cionel Pérez
  • Chris Martin (BOS) recorded his second save, retiring the side in the bottom of the tenth, although the “place” runner scored. Kenley Jansen suffered his fourth blown save, the first since July 27, allowing two hits and an earned run in the bottom of the ninth. He’s allowed a run in three of his last five outings. 
  • Hierarchy remains: Kenley Jansen | Chris Martin | Justin Slaten
  • Keegan Thompson (CHC) retired his only batter via strikeout for his second save, preserving a one-run win in Washington. He last recorded a save on June 18 and stranded two runners in the one-run win. 
  • Hierarchy remains: *Jorge López | *Porter Hodge | Drew Smyly
  • Alexis Díaz (CIN) suffered his fifth loss in Game 1, allowing the “place” runner to score in the top of the tenth against Milwaukee. He allowed two hits, an unearned run, and recorded a strikeout. He’s allowed at least a run in three of his last four and four of his previous six games.
  • Updated Hierarchy: Alexis Díaz | Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan
  • Emmanuel Clase (CLE) gave up Andrew McCutchen’s lead-off home run, snapping his nine-game scoreless streak. But, he bore down, retiring the next three batters, one via strikeout, for his American League-leading 40th save. He’s converted 27 straight save chances since May 20 and has reached 40 saves in the last three seasons. He also became the all-time franchise leader in the category, securing the 150th of his career. 
  • Hierarchy remains: Emmanuel Clase | Hunter Gaddis | Cade Smith 
  • Shelby Miller (DET) worked a clean top of the ninth and returned for the tenth. However, he allowed Cedanne Rafaela’s go-ahead two-run home run, resulting in his eighth loss. Miller finished with one hit, two runs (one earned), and two strikeouts over his 1.1 innings. 
  • Hierarchy Remains: *Jason Foley | *Tyler Holton | Shelby Miller
  • Josh Hader (HOU) had his save streak snapped by Paul DeJong’s game-tying two-run home run. Hader had converted 29 straight saves since April 7 but collected his seventh win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. He’s recorded three wins and converted eight of nine saves in August.
  • Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Ryan Pressly
  • James McArthur (KCR) gave up a one-out single by Jake Meyers and Jose Altuve’s walk-off RBI double with two outs in the bottom of the ninth, resulting in his sixth loss. 
  • Hierarchy Remains: Lucas Erceg | Kris Bubic | John Schreiber
  • Ryan Brasier (LAD) worked a scoreless bottom of the fifth in Arizona and was awarded his first win during an eventual one-run victory. 
  • Hierarchy remains: *Michael Kopech | *Evan Phillips | Anthony Banda
  • Mike Baumann (MIA) suffered his first loss and was credited with his seventh hold after allowing a hit and two walks in the bottom of the eighth before being removed. George Soriano gave up a bases-clearing three-RBI double by Matt Chapman, charging all three runs to Baumann, resulting in his third blown save. 
  • Hierarchy Remains: Calvin Faucher | Andrew Nardi | Jesús Tinoco
  • Devin Williams (MIL) secured his seventh save, issuing a walk and striking out one in the bottom of the tenth, preserving a one-run win during Game 1. He did throw 25 pitches, which may prevent him from being used in Saturday’s contest. He’s converted seven of eight save chances since August 10 with 13 strikeouts against four walks in his last 7.2 innings.
  • Updated Hierarchy: Devin Williams | Trevor Megill | Joel Payamps
  • Jhoan Durán (MIN) navigated around a lead-off single with a game-ending double play groundout, securing his 19th save and completing a combined shutout. This snapped a two-game streak, allowing multiple runs, and he’s converted four saves in five chances this month. 
  • Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands
  • Edwin Díaz (NYM) appeared for a third straight game, closing out a four-run win in the bottom of the ninth against the White Sox. He has retired the side and recorded two strikeouts in consecutive outings. 
  • Hierarchy remains: Edwin Díaz | Phil Maton | Reed Garrett
  • Clay Holmes (NYY) locked down his 29th save, firing a clean top of the ninth against the 5-6-7 hitters of St. Louis. He’s been scoreless in four straight and converted seven of nine save chances in August. 
  • Hierarchy remains: Clay Holmes | Tommy Kahnle | Luke Weaver
  • Carmen Mlodzinski (PIT) took over in the bottom of the fifth but suffered his fourth loss. He allowed four hits, including two home runs and four earned runs, during his inning of work. 
  • Updated Hierarchy: *Aroldis Chapman | *Dennis Santana | Kyle Nicolas
  • Ryan Walker (SFG) nailed down his fifth save with a clean top of the ninth and two strikeouts against Miami, preserving a two-run win. Since taking over as the closer on August 10, he’s allowed one unearned run while collecting a win and converting all five save chances with 21 strikeouts against two walks during eight appearances spanning ten innings. 
  • Hierarchy remains: Ryan Walker | Tyler Rogers | Camilo Doval

Vulture Save Options for Saturday, August 31

  • Tony Santillan (CIN): Díaz and Pagán have appeared in three straight games. 
  • Ryan Pressly (HOU): Hader and Abreu have worked in back-to-back contests. 
  • John Schreiber (KCR): Depending on the severity of Erceg’s injury, he may be in line for the save on Saturday. 
  • Trevor Megill (MIL): Williams needed 25 pitches during his save on Friday during Game 1 and may get today off for workload management. 
  • José Buttó (NYM): He could receive a multi-inning save chance. Díaz has pitched in three straight games, Maton and Garrett in three of the last four. 

Vulture Save Stashes for Sunday, September 1

  • Cole Sands (MIN): If Durán and Jax pitch today, both relievers will have logged consecutive outings. 
  • Edwin Uceta (TBR): If Rodrìguez pitches in today’s game, it will be back-to-back appearances.

Those seeking full game recaps should surf the team pages; they’ve all been updated with Friday’s results.

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast

Monkey Bytes: August 30

Thursday’s 11-game slate began with Ben Joyce recording his third save with 1.1 scoreless innings and Ryan Helsley securing his 41st. Things became more chaotic as the day progressed into the evening contests. In all, relievers recorded five wins and secured eight saves, but our three takeaways will cover some usage patterns and a potential injury. For now, our condensed recaps cover yesterday’s high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Justin Martinez (ARI) took over a tied game in the top of the ninth. He allowed a one-out double and a two-out, go-ahead RBi single, resulting in his fifth loss. 
  • Grant Holmes (ATL) took over with a runner on second and one out with a one-run lead at the bottom of the seventh. After inducing a groundout, he allowed Nick Castellanos’ go-ahead two-run home run, resulting in his first loss and a blown save. Holmes finished 1.2 innings, allowing two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one. 
  • Emilio Pagán (CIN) stranded a runner while retiring all three batters, one via strikeout. He benefited from his team’s walk-off rally and collected his fourth win. Alexis Díaz entered with a one-run lead and suffered his fourth blown save. He gave up Lawrence Butler’s lead-off home run, a walk, a double, and a two-RBI single, prompting his removal without recording an out.
  • Josh Hader (HOU) nailed down his 29th save with a clean ninth and one strikeout. Across 12 appearances in August, he’s been scoreless in 11 with two wins and eight saves. He’s also converted his last 29 save chances after blowing his first save chance of the season on April 2.
  • Lucas Erceg (KCR) appeared for the third time in four days and was not sharp. He could not protect a one-run lead in the bottom of the eighth. His outing began with a walk (Jose Altuve), and after inducing a Yordan Alvarez flyout, things unraveled. Victor Caratini singled, and a comebacker off of Erceg combined with an errant throw scored the game-tying run and removed him from the contest with two runners on. He suffered his fifth loss and fifth blown save, allowing two hits, three earned runs, and a walk over one-third of the eighth. 
  • Ben Joyce (LAA) took over a bases-loaded situation with two outs in the eighth and responded with an inning-ending strikeout of Spencer Torkelson. After allowing a lead-off single in the ninth, Joyce retired the next three hitters, secured his third save, and completed the combined shutout. He’s recorded four or more outs in all three saves this season. 
  • Evan Phillips (LAD) preserved a three-run win despite hitting leadoff hitter Cedric Mullins by retiring the next three batters, including two via strikeout. He’s been scoreless in seven of his last eight appearances, converting two of three save chances with 12 strikeouts versus one walk.
  • Jésus Tinoco (MIA) collected his first win, logging 2.1 scoreless innings. He gave up two hits and recorded three strikeouts on 21 pitches (85.7 Strike%) with four whiffs (19 SwStr%).
  • Edwin Díaz (NYM) recorded his 15th save with a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out two. He only threw one slider among his 18 pitches, relying on his four-seam fastball while preserving a one-run win in Arizona. This marked his first save since August 7 and second in August. 
  • Grant Holman (OAK) received his first save chance but suffered his first loss and blown save during a walk-off rally in Cincinnati. He gave up a lead-off walk, a Jonathan India single, a wild pitch moving both runners into scoring position, and a walk to Elly De La Cruz, loading the bases with no outs. Tyler Stephenson delivered an RBI single, and TJ Friedl’s walk-off two-RBI single sealed the loss.
  • Jeff Hoffman (PHI) preserved a one-run win with a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout for his tenth save. This represents his first save since July 10, and he’s been scoreless over his last four appearances. The “floating closer” concept may be back for the Phillies. 
  • Ryan Helsley (STL) shut the door on his MLB-leading 41st save, closing out a three-run win over the Padres. This marked his 20th save with a clean appearance, also most in the majors. Since August 3, he’s recorded two wins and converted all eight save chances.
  • Kirby Yates (TEX) gave up a one-out Andrew Benintendi solo home run while recording his 25th save, preserving a one-run win over the White Sox. Through 11 appearances this month, he’s recorded a win in two of three decisions and converted six of seven save chances with 21 strikeouts against five walks over 13 innings.
  • Chad Green (TOR) closed out his 16th save and a combined shutout in Boston. He worked around a hit batter for a scoreless ninth. He’s been scoreless over his last five appearances and converted all eight save chances in August.

Vulture Save Options for Friday, August 30

  • A.J. Puk (ARI): Martinez has pitched in consecutive outings. Puk will face Shohei Ohtani’s lineup pocket in the late innings; if it’s not the ninth, it may be Ryan Thompson for the save. These two teams will be playing this series like the playoffs. 
  • Andrew Kittredge (STL): Helsley has appeared on back-to-back days. 
  • James McArthur (KCR): Erceg and Schreiber have pitched in three of the previous four days. 
  • Phil Maton (NYM): Díaz has worked in consecutive outings. 
  • Trevor Megill (MIL): He could receive the save in Game 2 if the Brewers can sweep. DL Hall is also in play for those in leagues with daily streaming as the bulk reliever in this contest. 
  • Tony Santillan (CIN): Díaz and Pagán have appeared in back-to-back games. 
  • Andrew Chafin (TEX): Yates and Robertson have worked in three consecutive games.

Vulture Save Stashes for Saturday, August 31

  • Héctor Neris (HOU): If Hader, Pressly, and Abreu pitch again tonight, it will be consecutive outings for the Astros triumvirate. 
  • John Schreiber (KCR): Depending on the severity of Erceg’s injury, he may be in line for the save on Saturday. 

Three Takeaways

  • Different Díaz, same slider issues: It’s been a tough season for the embattled Reds’ closer. Alexis Díaz suffered his fourth blown save, allowing Lawrence Butler’s lead-off home run at the top of the ninth. Since the All-Star break, Díaz has a loss and converted five of seven save opportunities but has allowed four home runs, at least a run in five of 13 appearances, and multiple runs in two of his last three. Five of his six home runs this season have been off his slider. With shaky four-seam fastball command, it’s letting hitters sit on the slider as his split-by-pitch indicate:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/CK44C/3/

  • Not a “floating closer,” yet: With the leverage arms fully rested ahead of a pivotal series against Atlanta, Rob Thomson summoned Jeff Hoffman with a one-run lead at the top of the ninth last night. In a postgame interview, he maintained that Carlos Estévez was healthy and had gone with Hoffman since he began warming up in case he was needed during the eighth inning, which television replays confirm. Being cautious, the hierarchy will adjust as a shared save situation just in case, and the next few chances will be monitored closely. 
  • Royals in potential flux: Matched up with the top of Houston’s lineup at the bottom of the eighth, Lucas Erceg had a tough outing, not only in his results, but he also left with an injured finger after being hit by a comebacker. A blown save is tough enough for fantasy managers, but the team sent him and teammate Vinnie Pasquantino for X-rays following this play. With Hunter Harvey still sidelined with a lower back issue, this leverage ladder will be shorthanded this weekend if Erceg misses time as well:

Adjusted Hierarchies

Philadelphia Phillies – *Carlos Estévez | *Jeff Hoffman | Matt Strahm

*= closer-by-committee

Those seeking full game recaps should surf the team pages; they’ve all been updated with Wednesday’s results.

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast

Monkey Bytes: August 29

Once again, Wednesday provided an extra game, which technically counts on Tuesday per suspended contest rules, but there were 16 games on the slate for our purposes. Relievers recorded nine wins and secured ten saves in a bevy of high-leverage events of interest. Our condensed game recaps feature notes regarding 19 different teams from this slate.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Justin Martinez (ARI) locked down his seventh save, retiring the side and striking out one, which capped a comeback win over the Mets. In his last ten outings, he’s converted seven saves with 16 strikeouts versus six walks over 10.2 innings.
  • Raisel Iglesias (ATL) extended his scoreless streak to 17 games while closing out a four-run win in Minnesota. He’s racked up 22 strikeouts against one walk during his streak and converted seven of eight save chances since July 14. 
  • Kenley Jansen (BOS) completed a combined shutout of Toronto while retiring the side and striking out one for his 25th save. He only needed six pitches against the 9-1-2 lineup pocket. 
  • Porter Hodge (CHC) took over with his team down two in the eighth but collected his third win after a six-run rally in the top of the ninth. Hodge logged two innings, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out three. 
  • Justin Anderson (CHW) suffered his first loss, allowing two hits, an earned run, and a walk during his 1.1 innings against Texas in the regularly scheduled game on Wednesday. 
  • Emilio Pagán (CIN) entered the top of the eighth with a one-run lead but gave up five hits, including Seth Brown’s go-ahead three-run home run and four runs, resulting in his fourth loss and a first blown save. 
  • Emmanuel Clase (CLE) finished his 39th save with a scoreless ninth, yielding a hit and striking out one during a two-run win over Kansas City. Through 11 appearances, he’s allowed one unearned run this month and converted 26 consecutive save chances since May 20.
  • Jason Foley (DET) closed out a one-run win over the Angels with a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts. This extended his scoreless streak to seven games, and he converted a save in four of his last six. 
  • Lucas Erceg (KCR) was summoned with two runners on and no outs in the bottom of the seventh. He let both score and an earned run on his ledger, resulting in his fourth loss and fourth blown save. He allowed three hits and recorded one strikeout while losing his 12.1-inning scoreless streak since his acquisition. 
  • Michael Kopech (LAD) finished a two-run win over the Orioles with a clean ninth and two strikeouts, facing the 9-1-2 lineup pocket. Since his acquisition, he’s logged 13 outings, 12 scoreless, with two wins and three saves while producing 19 strikeouts against three walks across 13.1 innings.
  • Devin Williams (MIL) shut the door on his sixth save with a clean top of the ninth and recorded one strikeout. He faced the Giants’ 6-7-8 lineup pocket, dispensing them on 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) with two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). 
  • Edwin Díaz (NYM) took over with a one-run lead, a runner on and two outs in the bottom of the eighth. He issued consecutive walks and allowed Corbin Carroll’s go-ahead grand slam, resulting in his third loss and sixth blown save. He’s given up a home run in back-to-back outings, getting tagged with a loss in each. 
  • Mason Miller (OAK) recorded his 23rd save, tying Huston Street for the second most by a rookie in team history. Miller worked a scoreless ninth despite allowing a hit and a walk with two strikeouts. He’s converted all eight save chances through ten appearances this month. 
  • David Bednar (PIT) filed another chapter in his frustrating 2024 campaign. Taking over with a two-run lead, he gave up three hits, five earned runs, and two walks (one intentional), resulting in his seventh loss and a sixth blown save. After being scoreless in four of his previous five, this implosion spiked his second-half WHIP to 2.18 through 14.2 innings. His manager would not comment about his role going forward after the game. 
  • Robert Suarez (SD) recorded two quick outs, then allowed three straight sngles, resulting in his second loss during a walk-off rally in St. Louis. 
  • Ryan Helsley (STL) navigated around a lead-off double and a sacrifice bunt with consecutive strikeouts, keeping the game tied in the top of the ninth. He collected his sixth win courtesy of a walk-off in the bottom of the inning. He’s been scoreless in his last seven games, recording two wins and five saves. 
  • Tyler Alexander (TB) suffered his fourth loss. He worked 4.1 innings as the “bulk follower,” giving up five hits, five earned runs, and a walk while striking out four in Seattle. 
  • Kirby Yates (TEX) notched his 24th save, closing out a two-run during the completion of the suspended game from Tuesday. He walked one and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless ninth. He’s converted five of six save chances in August, with 20 strikeouts versus five walks in 10 appearances, spanning 12 innings.
  • Grant Anderson (TEX) took over with the bases loaded and two outs in the bottom of the ninth, and induced a game-ending flyout for his first career save in the regularly scheduled game on Wednesday. 
  • Kyle Finnegan (WSH) held on for his 34th save, preserving a three-run win over the Yankees. He allowed a one-out hit and a walk but retired the last two batters, including a game-ending strikeout of Gleyber Torres with two runners in scoring position and Juan Soto on deck. Finnegan has recorded a save in each of his last four appearances. 

Vulture Save Options for Thursday, August 29

  • Pierce Johnson (ATL): If Iglesias pitches tonight, it will be consecutive outings. 
  • Chris Martin (BOS): Jansen has pitched in two straight games. 
  • Tyler Holton (DET): Foley has worked on back-to-back days. 
  • Tanner Scott (SD): Suarez has appeared in three of the previous four, and Adam has pitched on consecutive days. 

Vulture Save Stashes for Friday, August 30

  • A.J. Puk (ARI): If Martinez pitches today, it will be consecutive outings, or Puk faces Shohei Ohtani’s lineup pocket in the ninth. These two teams will be playing this series like the playoffs. 
  • Joel Payamps (MIL): With a doubleheader on tap, he could nab an ancillary save in a sweep, or if Williams pitches again today, it would be consecutive outings. 
  • Ryan Fernandez (STL): If Helsley, Romero, and Kittredge pitch in today’s game, it would be back-to-back appearances for each reliever. 

Three Takeaways

  • Bednar’s role moving forward: Although he was not the only reliever who struggled during Wednesday’s loss against the Cubs, David Bednar receives our focus based on his role as the closer. He allowed three hits, five earned runs, and two walks (one intentional) during his seventh loss and sixth blown save. It’s been noted previously in our recaps he’s struggled since returning from his in-season oblique injury. In his 16 games since July 12, he’s recorded four losses while converting seven of ten save opportunities with a 2.04 WHIP over 15.2 innings. Caught between a rock and a hard place, his manager must decide on how he’s deployed over the last four-plus weeks, with his job also on the line. 
  • Díaz’s slider mechanics are off: In the postgame recap by Anthony DiComo of MLB.com, Edwin Díaz was quoted as saying his slider mechanics are “off,” and he’s landing closer to third, leaving his slider in the strike zone. Expecting the same results as 2022 for the closer would be unrealistic. However, his slider has produced over 20 percent fewer whiffs per Statcast this season. Although his hard-hit percentage has dropped, he’s allowed five home runs on the pitch versus one in 2022. There’s time for a strong finish, but time may be running out on a push for the postseason. 
  • Suarez and workload management: One believes part of the reason the Padres built a “superpen” at the trade deadline was to insulate the workload for its closer, Robert Suarez. Every inning pitched this year adds to his already career-high 53 innings. On Wednesday, he suffered a walk-off loss, his third outing in four days. He’s given up a run in his last two appearances and five of 11 games in August. His inflated .343 batting average on balls in play (BAbip) will normalize, but fantasy managers must note his 1.36 WHIP and 13 K-BB percentage through 10.1 innings this month. The good news is that his 3.00 SIERA sits below his 4.35 ERA, but less contact would be appreciated through the end of the season, along with slightly less work in non-save outings like the one he logged on Monday.

Adjusted Hierarchies

Pittsburgh Pirates – Updated Hierarchy: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Dennis Santana

  • Bednar may be on the hot seat, but a change’s not official. If they remove him from save situations, it could be shared saves between Chapman and Santana. Stay tuned.

Washington Nationals – Updated Hierarchy: Kyle Finnegan | Jacob Barnes | Jose A. Ferrer

Those seeking full game recaps should surf the team pages; they’ve all been updated with Wednesday’s results.

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast

Monkey Bytes: August 28

Although a suspended game in Chicago reduced the slate by one game, it was robust for high-leverage events. Nine relievers recorded a win, including one accompanied by a blown save for Raisel Iglesias (ATL). Eight relievers secured a save, and historically, the Rockies blew another late lead. Our condensed game recaps includes notes on 18 teams from last night’s contests.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Raisel Iglesias (ATL) collected his first win and suffered his third blown save, logging 1.1 scoreless frames. He let his only inherited runner score in the eighth on a Trevor Larnach game-tying RBI single. This outing snapped his consecutive save streak at 20, but he’s been scoreless over his last 16 games with 22 strikeotus against one walk.
  • Seranthony Domínguez (BAL) held on for his seventh save despite allowing a one-out hit and a two-out walk, preserving a one-run win against the Dodgers. He did throw 32 pitches during his scoreless outing, which may make him unavailable in tonight’s match-up. 
  • Kenley Jansen (BOS) finished a win over Toronto on a non-save appearance. He allowed Daulton Varsho’s solo home run in an eventual three-run win. Jansen’s allowed a run in two of his last three appearances. 
  • Porter Hodge (CHC) entered with a runner on second and two outs in the bottom of the ninth. He responded by striking out Connor Joe, preserving the four-run win in a non-save appearance. He’s been scoreless in his last nine appearances while posting 14 strikeouts against three walks across nine innings. 
  • Tony Santillan (CIN) took over a bases-loaded situation in the sixth, producing an inning-ending strikeout. In the seventh, things went awry. He allowed two hits, three earned runs, and a walk, resulting in his second loss and first blown save. 
  • Angel Chivilli (COL) was summoned with two runners on, no outs, and a two-run lead at the top of the ninth. He allowed Jesús Sanchez’s go-ahead three-run home run, resulting in his second loss and a second blown save. 
  • Jason Foley (DET) preserved a four-run win after stranding two runners with a game-ending groundout, securing his 18th save. He’s been scoreless over his last six appearances, converting a save in three. 
  • Michael Kopech (LAD) tossed a scoreless top of the ninth with his team down by one. He issued a walk and recorded two strikeouts facing the Orioles 8-9-1-2 hitters. 
  • Calvin Faucher (MIA) notched his fourth save with a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out the side against the Rockies’ 1-2-3 hitters. This snapped a two-game streak of allowing at least a run, marking his first save since August 18.
  • Joel Payamps (MIL) allowed two hits, including Mike Yastrzemski’s go-ahead two-run home run, resulting in his sixth loss and third blown save after taking over a tied game in the top of the seventh. 
  • Jhoan Durán (MIN) gave up a season-high four runs (three earned) on four hits and recorded a strikeout en route to his eighth loss and third in his last four appearances. He only recorded one out in the top of the tenth against Atlanta. 
  • Mason Miller (OAK) lost his 11-game scoreless streak but held on his 22nd save. He gave up four hits and two earned runs while striking out two in the bottom of the ninth during a one-run win in Cincinnati. 
  • David Bednar (PIT) retired the side against the Cubs’ 4-5-6 hitters on 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) with two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in four of his last five outings, with five strikeouts against one walk. 
  • Tanner Scott (SD) appeared for a third straight game and recorded his 20th save, retiring the side in St. Louis while preserving a two-run win. He’s been scoreless in nine of his last ten, collecting a win and securing two saves with eight strikeouts against zero walks.
  • JT Chargois (SEA) took over a tied game at the top of the seventh but suffered his first loss and a first blown save, giving up José Siri’s go-ahead two-run home run. 
  • Ryan Walker (SF) navigated around Willy Adames’ two-out single for a scoreless bottom of the ninth, preserving a one-run win. Through 11 appearances this month, he has allowed one unearned run across 12.2 innings with 24 strikeouts versus two walks while converting all four save opportunities.
  • John King (STL) allowed three hits, two earned runs, and a walk during his combined inning of relief between the sixth and seventh innings, resulting in his third loss and second blown save. 
  • Manuel Rodríguez (TB) recorded his second save, working around a two-out single and striking out one in a scoreless ninth in Seattle, closing out a one-run win. He’s been scoreless in ten of 11 outings in August with two wins and two saves while producing a 13:4 K:BB over 9.2 innings.
  • Kyle Finnegan (WSH) held on for his 33rd save, closing out a two-run win over the Yankees. He entered at the top of the eighth and retired his only batter. In the ninth, he allowed a lead-off double, recorded an out in an RBI fielder’s choice groundout, and consecutive singles before inducing successive flyouts. He’s converted his last ten save chances but has a 1.96 WHIP across his last 14.1 innings. 

Vulture Save Options for Wednesday, August 28

  • Yennier Cano (BAL): Domínguez threw 32 pitches during his outing last night and should be unavailable tonight. 
  • Michel Otañez (OAK): Miller logged 31 pitches while preserving a save on Tuesday, which should result in him not being used tonight. 
  • Griffin Jax (MIN): Durán has also appeared in three of the last four, but he’s thrown 60 pitches and should be off in today’s game. Jax has been the team’s most consistent reliever all season and is in line for the save in what feels like a must-win contest. If he’s not used for the save, those in deep leagues can take a chance on Cole Sands. 

Vulture Save Stashes for Thursday, August 29

  • Joe Jiménez (ATL): If Iglesias pitches tonight, it will be consecutive outings. 

Three Takeaways

  • Rodríguez earning preferred save share: Recording his second save in four appearances, Manuel Rodríguez closed out a one-run win in Seattle. He’s pitched in the ninth inning over his last four games and been scoreless in 12 of 13 since July 28 with 15 strikeouts against four walks (22.9 K-BB%) with a 0.77 WHIP across 11.2 innings. He’s generated a 14.4 swinging strike percentage while producing a 64.4 strike percentage and a 69.3 percent contact rate allowed. Edwin Uceta has appeared before him in two games, representing the highest-leveraged reliever role Jason Adam filled with Rodríguez taking over Pete Fairbanks’ vacated preferred save option role. 
  • Durán’s in a rut: Suffering his eighth loss of the year and fourth in the second half, Jhoan Durán allowed four hits and four runs (three earned) during his one-third of the tenth inning against Atlanta. Since the All-Star break, he’s given up at least a run in six of his 14 outings, multiple runs in three, including his last two. Although only eight of the 12 runs scored have been earned, his inflated .472 batting average on balls in play (BAbip) represents some misfortune; fantasy managers cannot ignore his 1.62 WHIP. His 1.87 SIERA and 28.8 K-BB percentage reflect his upside, but he’s thrown 60 pitches over his last four games since Saturday and may need a day or two off for a mental reset. It’s tough benching him, but we must monitor his results closely with September on the horizon while his team vies for a spot in the postseason. 
  • Doval is still struggling with throwing strikes: It’s been reported by multiple writers that the Giants impacted Camilo Doval after demoting him. His task in the minors was to attack hitters and throw strikes. Since his recall, he’s recorded a hold and a win, but he’s still not working efficiently in the strike zone. Through two appearances, he’s thrown 43 pitches and 22 strikes (51.2 Strike%) with only three whiffs (7 SwStr%), allowing a hit and three walks while striking out four over 1.1 scoreless frames. He may secure an ancillary save, but for those holding out hope that he will reclaim the closer role, it’s unlikely unless his underlying data and strike percentage improve appreciably.

Those seeking full game recaps should surf the team pages; they’ve all been updated with Tuesday’s results.

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast

Monkey Bytes: August 27

Monday’s slate featured two doubleheaders, with Toronto and Boston completing a June game that had been suspended. Kansas City and the Blue Jays recorded sweeps in their double dips, causing a shift in the American League standings. During the 12-game slate, relievers recorded six wins and converted seven saves. Our condensed recaps cover the high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Jared Shuster (CHW) suffered his third loss and a second blown save, allowing four hits, four earned runs, and a walk while striking out three over 1.1 innings. 
  • Hunter Gaddis (CLE) allowed Bobby Witt Jr.’s go-ahead lead-off home run in the top of the eighth, recorded an out, and gave up a double before being removed. He suffered his third loss during Game 1 of a doubleheader. Emmanuel Clase navigated around two hits for a scoreless ninth during an eventual loss in Game 2. 
  • Tyler Kinley (COL) locked down his seventh save with a clean ninth while striking out two during a one-run win over Miami. He’s been scoreless in 12 of 13 appearances since July 28, with 16 strikeouts against three walks through 14 innings.
  • Tyler Holton (DET) retired the side against the White Sox 7-8-9 hitters on 11 pitches for his fifth save. He’s been scoreless over his last seven games, spanning 10.1 innings, and this marked his first save since August 6.
  • Josh Hader (HOU) logged his sixth multi-inning outing, though he did not record an out in the tenth. After striking out the side in the ninth, he issued Trea Turner a lead-off walk in the bottom of the tenth and gave up Bryce Harper’s walk-off RBI single, resulting in his seventh loss. 
  • Lucas Erceg (KCR) notched his eighth save and fifth with the Royals, tossing a scoreless ninth while navigating around a walk in Game 1. He’s been scoreless since his acquisition, posting 15 strikeouts against one walk across 12.1 innings. John Schreiber earned his fourth win, firing 1.2 clean frames and striking out one.
  • Daniel Lynch IV (KCR) logged three scoreless innings and recorded his first career save, closing out a five-run win in Game 2. He allowed a hit and a walk while striking out one in his appearance. Sam Long collected his third win, working 1.1 scoreless frames, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out one. 
  • Clay Holmes (NYY) shut the door on his 28th save with a clean ninth. This sets a career-high in the category, and he’s been scoreless over his last three. 
  • Matt Strahm (PHI) retired the side at the top of the tenth versus the Astros’ top of the lineup and collected his fifth win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. 
  • Chad Green (TOR) closed out a three-run win during the conclusion of the suspended game in Boston. He will be credited with his third save, but it’s his 15th of the season. He gave up a two-out double and recorded three strikeouts in a scoreless ninth. 
  • Brendon Little (TOR) tossed 1.1 scoreless innings, allowing a hit and striking out one for his first career save in Game 2, preserving a sweep in Boston. 

Vulture Save Options for Tuesday, August 27

  • Jeff Hoffman (PHI): Estévez has pitched in two straight. 
  • Jason Adam (SDP): Suarez and Scott have appeared in the two previous games. 
  • Tayler Scott (HOU): Hader, Abreu, and Neris have logged back-to-back outings. 

Vulture Save Stash for Wednesday, August 28

  • Tommy Kahnle (NYY): If Holmes pitches tonight, it will be back-to-back appearances. 

Three Takeaways

  • Kinley Shoves: It was against the Marlins, but Tyler Kinley nailed down his seventh save and first since Victor Vodnik landed on the injured list. After this outing, 12 of Kinley’s last 13 appearances have been scoreless since July 28, and he’s recorded 16 strikeouts against three walks (26.5 K-BB%) across 14 innings. He’s also improved his strike rate (65 percent) and produced an 18 percent swinging strike rate with a 0.50 WHIP.  If these outings continue, he may remain the closer, even when Vodnik can be activated in early September. Stay tuned. 
  • A Royal Sweep: Beating the Guardians at their own game, Kansas City used timely hitting with strong outings by its bullpen to pull within one game in the division, sweeping a doubleheader on Monday. Relievers recorded a win and a save in both games. Before his back issues flared, Hunter Harvey emerged as the preferred save option. However, Lucas Erceg secured his ninth save in Game 1 and has converted five saves over his last six appearances, been scoreless through his 11 games since being acquired, and over his last 14 games since July 22 with 18 strikeouts versus one walk across 15.1 innings with a minuscule 0.46 WHIP. Also of interest, Daniel Lynch IV notched his first career save with three scoreless frames in the nightcap. Moving forward, he replaced Angel Zerpa in the bullpen and could provide solid outings in deeper formats while logging multiple-inning outings. When Harvey returns in September, this will be a deep leverage ladder. 
  • Toronto Takes Two with a caveat: If one searches game logs on Baseball Reference, Chad Green’s save yesterday afternoon will appear as his third save of the season, recorded on June 26. However, it will be considered his 15th of the season for our purposes. Unofficially, he’s converted all eight save chances this month during his 12 outings and has been a sneakily productive fantasy reliever.

Monday’s Full Recaps

Colorado Rockies – Locking down his seventh save, Tyler Kinley retired the side and recorded two strikeouts while preserving a one-run win over Miami. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and generated seven whiffs (46.7 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in 12 of 13 appearances since July 28, with 16 strikeouts against three walks through 14 innings.

  • Angel Chivilli notched his third hold, giving up a hit and striking out two in a scoreless eighth.
  • Justin Lawrence gave up a hit during a scoreless seventh, securing his fourth hold.
  • Jake Bird collected his second win. He tossed a scoreless sixth, issuing a walk and striking out two.

Updated Hierarchy: Tyler Kinley | Angel Chivilli | Justin Lawrence

Detroit Tigers – Summoned with a three-run lead against the White Sox 7-8-9 lineup pocket, Tyler Holton retired the side, securing his fifth save. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in his last seven games, spanning 10.1 innings, and this marked his first save since August 6.

  • Beau Brieske allowed a solo home run during his 1.1-inning outing.
  • Sean Guenther collected his first win, logging 1.2 scoreless frames. He allowed a hit and recorded one strikeout. 

Hierarchy remains: *Jason Foley | *Tyler Holton | Shelby Miller

*= closer-by-committee

Kansas City Royals – Preserving a one-run win in Game 1, Lucas Erceg navigated around a one-out walk to José Ramírez for a scoreless ninth and his eighth save. He threw 14 pitches (50 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He remains scoreless since the trade deadline through 11 appearances with 15 strikeouts versus one walk across 12.1 innings.

  • John Schreiber collected his fourth win. He logged 1.2 clean frames and recorded a strikeout.
  • Kris Bubic suffered his second blown save, giving up four hits and an earned run while striking out one during his 1.1-inning outing.
  • James McArthur worked a scoreless fifth, walking and striking out one.

Making his first appearance since June, Daniel Lynch IV recorded his first career save. He logged three scoreless innings, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out one during a five-run win in Game 2 in Cleveland.

  • Sam Long collected his third win, working 1.1 scoreless frames, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out one.

Updated Hierarchy: Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber | Kris Bubic

New York Yankees – Shutting the door in his 28th save, Clay Holmes set a new career high while retiring the side during a three-run win in Washington. He threw 19 pitches (13 strikes – 68.4 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless over his last three and converted six of eight save chances in August.

  • Jake Cousins allowed a walk and recorded two outs in the eighth for his fourth hold.
  • Mark Leiter Jr. gave up Jacob Young’s solo home run during two-thirds innings, getting credit for his 15th hold.

Hierarchy remains: Clay Holmes | Tommy Kahnle | Luke Weaver

Philadelphia Phillies – After stranding the “place” runner in the top of the tenth, Matt Strahm collected his sixth win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. He retired the top of the Astros lineup on eight pitches (75 Strike%).

  • Carlos Estévez tossed a clean ninth, including pinch-hitter Jose Altuve, on 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) with two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).
  • Jeff Hoffman worked around a hit and a walk for a scoreless eighth.
  • Orion Kerkering allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless seventh. 

Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Jeff Hoffman | Matt Strahm

Toronto Blue Jays – Securing his 15th save in the suspended contest against Boston, Chad Green worked a scoreless ninth. He allowed a two-out Masataka Yoshida double and recorded all three outs via strikeout. He threw 19 pitches (13 strikes – 68.4 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (15.8 SwStr%). This will be reported as his third save of the season, but we all know better, right?

  • Erik Swanson allowed Jarren Duran’s solo home run in the eighth.
  • Génesis Cabrera notched his fourth hold with a clean seventh and striking out one.
  • Zach Pop was awarded his first win; he stranded two runners while retiring his only batter in the sixth.
  • Ryan Yarbrough logged 3.1 scoreless frames, yielding two hits and a walk while striking out four.

Brendon Little recorded 1.1 scoreless innings for his first career save in Game 2. He allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout on 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) with two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains: Chad Green | Génesis Cabrera | Erik Swanson

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast