Monkey Bytes: August 12

Rarely does Sunday not feature a full slate of games, but four teams had the day off. Across the 13 games played, relievers recorded four wins and seven saves. Two saves were of the ancillary variety, with George Soriano (MIA) notching a one-out save and Will Vest being summoned with a one-run lead in San Francisco. There is no closer in Detroit; fantasy managers should plan accordingly. Our condensed game recaps cover Sunday’s high-leverage outings of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Joe Jiménez (ATL) let both inherited runners score while allowing four hits and three earned runs on his ledger over one-third of the eighth in Colorado, resulting in his fourth loss and second blown save. 
  • Craig Kimbrel (BAL) took over a tied game in the bottom of the eighth and suffered his fourth loss. He allowed three walks and one earned run, working with reduced velocity. 
  • Lucas Sims (BOS) was forced into action after James Paxton left with an injury. Sims suffered his sixth loss, giving up a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two over two innings. 
  • Alexis Díaz (CIN) shut the door on his 23rd save with a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out two while preserving a one-run win in Milwaukee. 
  • Emmanuel Clase (CLE) worked into, then out of trouble while recording his American League-leading 35th save. He gave up a lead-off single, issued a walk, and allowed another single, loading the bases with no outs. Bearing down, he recorded a strikeout and a game-ending double play grounder, preserving the two-run win and converting his 23rd straight save opportunity. 
  • Victor Vodnik (COL) culminated his team’s seven-run rally in the bottom of the eighth and preserved the one-run win with his eighth save. He allowed a lead-off hit, induced a double play groundout, and ended the game on a strikeout. 
  • Will Vest (DET) was summoned with a one-run lead in the bottom of the ninth. He responded by recording his first save, working around a two-out walk with a game-ending strikeout.
  • Ben Joyce (LAA) struggled in a non-save outing. He allowed three hits, two earned runs, and two walks on 29 pitches (17 strikes – 58.6 Strike%). 
  • George Soriano (MIA) produced a fantasy fan favorite with a one-out save, striking out his only batter and recording his first save in a one-run win over the Padres. 
  • Joe Ross (MIL) entered a tied game in the seventh and allowed the eventual game-winning run score on a sacrifice fly. He suffered his sixth loss, giving up a hit, an earned run, and two walks while striking out three over three innings. 
  • Clay Holmes (NYY) threw a season-high 45 pitches during 1.1 innings and held on for his 25th save. After stranding a runner in the eighth, he recorded two strikeouts in the ninth before issuing consecutive walks, allowing an RBI single and inducing a game-ending groundout during a one-run win. 
  • Mason Miller (OAK) retired the side on eight pitches in Toronto while finishing a four-run win. 
  • Pete Fairbanks (TBR) secured his 23rd save, closing out a one-run win over the Orioles. He allowed a two-out single and recorded three strikeouts for his eighth straight scoreless appearance.

Vulture Save Option for Monday, August 12

  • Scott Barlow (CLE): Clase, Gaddis, and Smith have pitched back-to-back games.
  • Aroldis Chapman (PIT): Bednar logged two innings and threw 38 pitches; he may need two days off.
  • Colin Poche (TBR): Fairbanks and Rodríguez have appeared in two straight.
  • Luke Weaver (NYY): This leverage ladder is running on fumes and Holmes tossed 45 pitches during Sunday’s save.

Vulture Save Option for Tuesday, August 13

  • Tanner Scott (SDP): If Suarez pitches today, it will be four appearances in six days, which lines up Scott, if he’s not used for Tuesday.
  • Fernando Cruz (CIN): If Díaz pitches tonight, he will have appeared on consecutive days.
  • Kyle Nicolas (PIT): If Chapman pitches in today’s contest, it will be back-to-back outings and Bednar should be unavailable until Wednesday.

Three Takeaways

  • Bednar pre-and-post-injury splits: Could this be viewed as cherrypicking results? Absolutely. However, David Bednar has allowed at least a run in his last five appearances, including a walk-off loss against the Dodgers yesterday. He did work a scoreless ninth, but with two outs, he gave up Teoscar Hernández’s single, resulting in his team’s seventh consecutive loss. Before his in-season oblique injury, Bednar had a 3-3 record while converting 16 of 19 save chances with a 32:7 K:BB (18.7 K-BB percentage), a 1.12 WHIP, and a 3.48 SIERA. Since returning on July 12, he’s suffered two losses and converted four of six saves with a 9:8 K:BB (2 K-BB percentage), a 2.14 WHIP, and a 5.50 SIERA. He’s also throwing strikes less often, down over six percent since his return from the oblique issue. Time may be running out on the Pirates, and their closer will be on watch the rest of the second half by fantasy managers, not distracted by football.
  • Kimbrel’s velocity remains down: Usage patterns forced Brandon Hyde’s hand, and he had to deploy Craig Kimbrel in a high-leverage outing on Sunday. The veteran closer took over a tied game in the bottom of the eighth and suffered his fourth loss. It started with a lead-off walk, featured four stolen bases allowed, and ended with his team down by one. Kimbrel last recorded a save on July 7 and had his last save opportunity on July 25. Once again, his velocity dipped, even with four days off in this outing and when he’s below 94 m.p.h. with his four-seam, he’s not the same pitcher:
  • Camilo’s debut at Triple-A: One pitch from an immaculate inning during his first appearance at Triple-A since 2021, Camilo Doval threw four straight balls, walking the batter instead. With two outs, he allowed Nolan Jones’ RBI triple and an RBI single by Elehuris Montero before an inning-ending flyout. Doval threw 25 pitches (72 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (20 SwStr%), allowing two hits, two earned runs, and a walk with two strikeouts.

American League – Full Recaps from August 11

Baltimore Orioles – Taking over a tied game in the bottom of the eighth, Craig Kimbrel suffered his fourth loss. His outing began with a lead-off walk, a leverage no-no, a strikeout, a stolen base, another walk, and a double steal, putting runners on second and third. Kimbrel gave up Curtis Mead’s sacrifice fly and another stolen base (four in his outing), then induced an inning-ending strikeout of José Siri. Kimbrel threw 23 pitches (10 strikes – 43.5 Strike%) and recorded three whiffs. This snapped his three-game scoreless streak, and he’s allowed 10 runs (eight earned) over his last nine outings with 11 strikeouts and walks across 8.2 innings since July 14.

  • Cionel Pérez was tagged with his first blown save. He gave up a double and Dylan Carlson’s game-tying RBI single during his one-third of the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: *Seranthony Domínguez | *Yennier Cano (HLR) | Craig Kimbrel

*= closer-by-committee

Cleveland Guardians – Pulling a “Houdini,” Emmanuel Clase loaded the bases on two singles sandwiched around a walk with no outs and a two-run lead in Minnesota. He bore down, recording a strikeout against Will Castro and then inducing a game-ending double play ground ball by Trevor Larnarch for his American League-leading 35th save. He threw 20 pitches (60 Strike%) and only induced one whiff. However, he’s converted 23 consecutive save chances since May 20 with 23 strikeouts versus five walks over his last 31 innings.

  • Nick Sandlin let an inherited runner score and an earned run on his ledger, giving up Byron Buxton’s home run in the eighth.
  • Hunter Gaddis worked a combined inning, allowing a hit and an earned run while striking out two.
  • Cade Smith retired three of four batters, yielding a hit and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Emmanuel Clase | Hunter Gaddis | Scott Barlow

Detroit Tigers -With a one-run lead, Will Vest secured his first save. He worked around a two-walk to LaMonte Wade Jr. with a game-ending strikeout of Heliot Ramos. He threw 17 pitches (11 strikes – 64.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in four of five outings in August with this save, two holds, and a blown save.

  • Brenan Haniffee notched his first hold, tossing 1.2 scoreless frames and giving up a hit. He also stranded a runner in the seventh.
  • Tyler Holton was credited with his eighth hold. However, he allowed his only inherited runner to score on a Jerar Encarnacion RBI double and issued a walk during 1.1 scoreless innings.

Hierarchy remains: *Tyler Holton | *Jason Foley | *Will Vest

*= closer-by-committee

New York Yankees – An eventful 25th save for Clay Holmes. He took over in the eighth with a runner on and induced an inning-ending groundout by Corey Seager. In the ninth, he recorded two quick outs via strikeout, then his struggles ensued. After issuing consecutive two-out walks, Holmes allowed Adolis García’s RBI single. With runners on second and third, Leody Tavares grounded out. Holmes threw a season-high 45 pitches (24 strikes – 53.3 Strike%) and induced five whiffs (11.1 SwStr%). This marked his most pitches since August 20, 2019 (64 pitches over 3.2 innings). Since July 5, he’s converted six of 11 save chances.

  • Mark Leiter Jr. gave up three hits, including two home runs, three earned runs, and a walk, while striking out two in two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Tommy Kahnle allowed two hits and an unearned run in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Clay Holmes | Luke Weaver | Mark Leiter Jr.

Tampa Bay Rays – Protecting a one-run lead, Pete Fairbanks secured his 23rd save. He worked around a two-out single by Cedric Mullins and recorded all three outs via strikeout. He threw 14 pitches (12 strikes – 85.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 Strike%). He’s converted 13 straight save chances and been scoreless over his last eight appearances.

  • Manuel Rodríguez earned his second win. He navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out one for a scoreless eighth, ahead of his team’s go-ahead rally in the bottom of the inning.
  • Edwin Uceta worked two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Colin Poche | Manuel Rodríguez

National League – Full Recaps from August 11

Cincinnati Reds – Shutting the door on his 23rd save, Alexis Díaz fired a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out two and preserving a one-run win. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in four of his last five while converting all four save chances.

  • Emilio Pagán allowed a walk during a scoreless eighth for his fourth hold.
  • Sam Moll worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit, and secured his tenth hold.
  • Buck Farmer let one of two inherited runners score on Willy Adames’ RBI single, tying the game, and recorded two outs. He suffered his first blown save but collected his second win when his teammates rallied for a go-ahead run in the top of the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Alexis Díaz | Fernando Cruz | Sam Moll

Colorado Rockies – Capping his team’s seven-run eighth-inning rally, Victor Vodnik navigated around a lead-off single in the top of the ninth by inducing a double play groundout and recording a game-ending strikeout of Travis d’Arnaud for his eighth save. He threw 17 pitches (11 strikes – 64.7 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (11.8 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in seven of his last eight and converted five saves.

  • Jake Rogers was credited with his second win despite allowing three hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one over 1.2 innings.
  • Justin Lawrence struggled once again. He gave up three hits, four earned runs, and a walk during one-third of the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence

Los Angeles Dodgers – Despite letting the “place” runner score in the top of the tenth, Evan Phillips collected his third win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. He allowed a one-out RBI single by Bryan Reynolds and induced an inning-ending double play groundout by Oneil Cruz. Phillips threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) without a whiff while recording a strikeout. He’s recorded a strikeout against eight of his last 12 batters faced.

  • Joe Kelly worked a clean top of the ninth, striking out two.
  • Michael Grove stranded a runner and issued a walk in one-third of the eighth.
  • Anthony Banda suffered his second blown save, allowing three hits, including Andrew McCutchen’s game-tying two-run home run during two-thirds of the eighth.

Updated Hierarchy: *Daniel Hudson | *Evan Phillips | Michael Kopech

*= closer-by-committee

Miami Marlins – A wild finish resulted in George Soriano recording his first save. With a one-run lead and a runner on second, he recorded a strikeout against Luis Campusano.

  • Andrew Nardi was credited with his 15th hold. He logged 1.2 innings, giving up three hits, including Donovan Solan’s pinch-hit two-run home run, and struck out two. Nardi threw 37 pitches (24 strikes – 64.9 Strike%) and induced three whiffs.
  • Declan Cronin stranded a runner and retired both batters in the seventh via strikeout for his third hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Calvin Faucher | Andrew Nardi | George Soriano

Pittsburgh Pirates – After tossing a scoreless bottom of the ninth and allowing a hit, David Bednar returned for the bottom of the tenth with a one-run lead, marking his first multiple-inning outing of the season. He allowed Enrique Hernández’s RBI double leading off the inning and issued a walk before recording consecutive outs. With two outs and two on, Teoscar Hernández produced a walk-off RBI single, resulting in Bednar’s fifth loss. He logged 1.2 innings, allowing three hits, two runs (one earned), and a walk while striking out one. He’s allowed at least a run during his last five outings.

  • Aroldis Chapman tossed a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit and striking out one.
  • Kyle Nicolas gave up a hit and retired one in the eighth.
  • Jalen Beeks logged 1.1 scoreless innings, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Kyle Nicolas

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 11

Saturday’s 16-game slate resulted in eight relievers recording a win, though one was accompanied by a blown save (Burch Smith). It also featured ten saves, including the first of the season by Devin Williams and Ryan Walker. Our condensed recaps cover the high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Kevin Ginkel (ARI) replaced an injured Zac Gallen in the top of the fifth and stranded two runners. Ginkel collected his seventh win, tossing 1.2 scoreless frames, giving up a walk, and striking out three. 
  • Raisel Iglesias (ATL) helped snap his team’s six-game losing streak while securing his 24th save, firing a clean ninth and striking out one in Colorado. 
  • Seranthony Domínguez (BAL) finished a two-run win in Tampa Bay with a scoreless bottom of the ninth. He issued a walk and recorded a strikeout for his first save with the Orioles and his second of the season. 
  • Héctor Neris (CHC) had a runner reach on an error but retired the next three hitters, two via strikeout, securing his 17th save. 
  • Chad Kuhl (CHW) gave up three hits, two earned runs, and a walk during his one-third of the eighth, resulting in his second loss. 
  • Tony Santillan (CIN) took over a scoreless game in the bottom of the eighth and allowed a Rhys Hoskins solo home run, resulting in his first loss. 
  • Emmanuel Clase (CLE) nailed down his American League-leading 34th save with a clean ninth and recorded a strikeout against the Twins. He’s converted 21 straight saves since May 20. 
  • Josh Hader (HOU) worked around a lead-off Rafael Devers double by retiring the next three batters for his 25th save. His scoreless outing preserved a one-run win, and he recorded one strikeout. 
  • Lucas Erceg (KCR) was summoned in the eighth with two runners and two outs. He stranded both with an inning-ending strikeout, then returned for a scoreless ninth, scattering two hits, and recorded his fourth save, first with the Royals. 
  • Roansy Contreras (LAA) threw a wild pitch and allowed a walk-off hit in the bottom of the tenth, resulting in his second loss. 
  • Michael Kopech (LAD) was awarded his third win. He stranded two runners in the seventh and retired all four batters, two via strikeout. Since the trade deadline, he’s allowed one hit and recorded eight strikeouts against zero walks across 5.1 scoreless innings. 
  • John McMillon (MIA) suffered his first loss. He took over in the top of the tenth and allowed the “place” runner to score on a fielder’s choice groundout. He also gave up two walks during his outing. Anthony Bender gave up three hits, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out two during his fourth blown save. 
  • Devin Williams (MIL) locked down his first save, striking out the side against the Reds’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket. This marked his first save since September 27 last year, and he’s recorded three strikeouts in consecutive appearances. Joel Payamps stranded a runner and retired both hitters in the eighth en route to his second win. 
  • Luke Weaver (NYY) entered a tied game at the top of the sixth of Game 2 and imploded. He allowed four hits, five earned runs, and a walk while recording one out, resulting in his third loss. 
  • Mason Miller (OAK) slammed the door on his 17th save, completing a combined shutout. He allowed a one-out walk and recorded three strikeouts against the Blue Jays. 
  • Tanner Scott (SDP) secured his 19th save, first with the Padres, with a scoreless bottom of the tenth. He allowed an infield hit and recorded a strikeout. Robert Suarez collected his seventh win. He retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the bottom of the ninth. 
  • Ryan Walker (SFG) converted his first save as the “interim closer,” working a scoreless ninth against the Tigers. He did give up a walk and a hit before recording consecutive strikeouts, preserving the two-run win. 
  • Ryan Fernandez (STL) let one of two inherited runners score in the bottom of the sixth. Returning for the seventh, he gave up three hits and three earned runs, resulting in his fourth loss and a second blown save. 
  • Colin Poche (TBR) struggled during his outing at the top of the eighth. He allowed four hits, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out one during two-thirds of the inning, resulting in his second loss. 
  • Derek Law (WSH) logged two scoreless frames and collected his seventh win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the tenth. He allowed a hit and struck out one in his outing.

Vulture Save Options for Sunday, August 11

  • Jason Adam (SDP): Suarez has pitched in three of the last four, and Scott in four of the previous five days.
  • Craig Kimbrel (BAL): Cano and Domínguez have appeared on consecutive days. Kimbrel last pitched in a save situation on July 25 (his sixth blown save). Monitor his velocity if he gets the opportunity this afternoon.

Vulture Save Options for Monday, August 12

  • A.J. Minter (ATL): If Iglesias and Jiménez pitch today, it will be back-to-back outings.
  • Scott Barlow (CLE): If Clase and Gaddis pitch this afternoon, it’s consecutive appearances.
  • Ryan Pressly (HOU): Hader and Abreu worked yesterday, and if they pitch today, they will get Monday off.

Three Takeaways

  • Royals revamped hierarchy: Just when it seemed safe to trust Hunter Harvey as the preferred save option, he landed on the injured list with a mid-back issue. His designation is backdated to August 7, but it may mean a committee-based approach in the interim. Lucas Erceg secured his first save with the team on Saturday but pitched in the seventh on Friday, which would have lined up Kris Bubic for the save opportunity. Our adjusted hierarchy appears in the full-game recap below, with Erceg atop, but he may share them with Bubic. Stay tuned.
  • Domínguez over Kimbrel?: As noted above, Craig Kimbrel last received a save chance on July 25. He was passed over in Tampa Bay with a two-run lead for Seranthony Domínguez. It’s tough saying Kimbrel’s leverage role may be on the line, and his manager remains steadfast in his support. Still, the velocity concerns and location issues linger (52 strike percentage in his last three appearances) and must be accounted for when putting him in fantasy lineups. Sunday may yield a better idea of how he may be used for the remainder of the season.
  • The “Airbender” is back: Locking down his first save of 2024, Devin Williams struck out the side while preserving a 1-0 win over the Reds. There has not been an update regarding a timeline for when he can or will appear on consecutive days. Since his return, save chances have been sparse for the Brewers, but fantasy managers await when he will be given a regular closer workload. More potential good news for this leverage ladder: Trevor Megill has been throwing and could be activated as soon as Tuesday.

American League – Full Recaps from August 10

Baltimore Orioles – Preserving a two-run win in Tampa Bay, Seranthony Domínguez recorded his first save with the Orioles and his second of the season with a scoreless ninth. He allowed a walk and recorded a strikeout on 18 pitches (55.6 Strike%) with four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in seven of eight games since the trade deadline, with nine strikeouts against two walks and a 0.75 WHIP.

  • Cionel Pérez let one of two inherited runners score, issuing two walks, including one with the bases loaded and recorded an out for his 16th hold.
  • Yennier Cano gave up two hits and an earned run while striking out two in two-thirds of the eighth, getting credit for his 26th hold.
  • Burch Smith allowed a game-tying José Caballero home run, resulting in his first blown save, but collected his fourth win courtesy of his team’s three-run rally in the top of the eighth.

Updated Hierarchy: *Seranthony Domínguez | *Yennier Cano (HLR) | Craig Kimbrel

*= closer-by-committee

Cleveland Guardians – Locking down his American League-leading 34th save, Emmanuel Clase retired the side and recorded a strikeout while preserving a one-run win in Minnesota. He threw 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). Through his last 30 games, he’s converted 21 straight save chances with 22 strikeouts versus four walks over 30 innings.

  • Hunter Gaddis secured his 25th hold, firing a clean eighth and striking out one.
  • Cade Smith notched his 18th hold with a clean seventh and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Emmanuel Clase | Hunter Gaddis | Scott Barlow

Houston Astros -Working around a lead-off double by Rafael Devers, Josh Hader retired the next three batters, including a game-ending strikeout for his 25th save. He threw 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (31.3 SwStr%. This extended his scoreless streak to six games, during which he’s converted five saves.

  • Bryan Abreu was credited with his AL-leading 29th hold despite allowing three hits and two earned runs while striking out one, snapping his 14-game scoreless stretch.

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

Kansas City Royals – Pressed into action with two runners on and two outs, Lucas Erceg quelled the threat by strikeout out Paul Goldschmidt. With an off day looming on Sunday, he returned for the ninth and navigated around two hits for a scoreless 1.1-inning outing while securing his fourth save. He threw 25 pitches (64 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (20 SwStr%). He remains unscored upon as a Royal with six scoreless outings spanning 6.1 innings while producing eight strikeouts against zero walks. With Hunter Harvey on the injured list, Erceg could emerge as the preferred save share, though it may be match-up dependent.

  • Kris Bubic gave up three hits and an earned run while striking out two over two-thirds of the eighth before being lifted.

Before Saturday’s game, the Royals placed Hunter Harvey on the 15-day injured list with mid-back tightness, as per Anne Rogers in this tweet on “X.”

Adjusted Hierarchy: *Lucas Erceg | *Kris Bubic | James McArthur

*=  closer-by-committee

Oakland A’s – Shutting the door on his 17th save and preserving a 1-0 shutout, Mason Miller issued a one-out walk and recorded all three outs via strikeout. He threw 18 pitches (11 strikes – 61.1 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (18.2 SwStr%) against the top of Toronto’s lineup. He’s secured a save in a scoreless outing in both games back from the injured list and extended his scoreless streak to five games since July 10.

  • Tyler Ferguson retired the side for his third hold in the eighth.
  • Scott Alexander tossed a clean seventh, striking out one and posting his seventh hold.

Hierarchy remains: Mason Miller | Tyler Ferguson | Austin Adams

National League – Full Recaps from August 10

Atlanta Braves – Closing out his 24th save and helping snap his team’s six-game losing streak, Raisel Iglesias retired the side and recorded a strikeout in Coors Field. He threw 10 pitches (90 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. This extended his scoreless streak to nine games. He’s also converted both save chances in August.

  • Joe Jiménez nailed down his 19th hold with a clean eighth while striking out two.
  • Pierce Johnson collected his fifth win. He stranded a runner in the sixth and tossed a scoreless seventh. His final line was 1.1 scoreless innings, allowing a hit and striking out one.
  • Aaron Bummer suffered his third blown save. He gave up four hits and three earned runs while recording two outs in the bottom of the sixth.

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

Chicago Cubs – Nailing down his 17th save, Héctor Neris worked a scoreless ninth and recorded two strikeouts while closing out a two-run win over the White Sox. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in three of four appearances this month and converted all three saves.

  • Jorge López notched his seventh hold, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
  • Porter Hodge collected his first win, firing a clean seventh and striking out one ahead of his team’s two-run rally in the top of the eighth.

Hierarchy remains: Héctor Neris | Porter Hodge | Tyson Miller

Milwaukee Brewers – Summoned with a 1-0 lead in the top of the ninth, Devin Williams nailed down his first save of the season and first since September 27 last year, striking out the side. He threw 18 pitches (50 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He’s recorded three strikeouts in consecutive outings. His last hurdle will be pitching on consecutive days.

  • Joel Payamps stranded a runner and retired both batters in the eighth. He collected his second win due to Rhys Hoskins’ go-ahead home run in the bottom of the inning.

Hierarchy Remains: Devin Williams | Joel Payamps | Elvis Peguero

San Diego Padres – Securing his 19th save and first with the Padres, Tanner Scott tossed a scoreless bottom of the tenth and preserved a one-run win in Miami. He navigated around a lead-off infield single on a bunt with a pop-out, a fielder’s choice groundball throwing out the “place” runner at home, and a game-ending strikeout. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs.

  • Robert Suarez collected his seventh win. He retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the ninth, ahead of his team’s rally in the top of the tenth. He’s been scoreless in seven of eight appearances in the second half, recording three wins and converting three of four save chances.
  • Adrian Morejon suffered his second blown save, giving up a game-tying Jake Burger solo home run in the eighth.
  • Jhony Brito logged 2.1 scoreless frames, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out three.

Hierarchy remains: Robert Suarez | Tanner Scott | Jason Adam

San Francisco Giants – During his first outing as the “interim closer,” Ryan Walker navigated around a one-out walk and a single with consecutive strikeouts, securing his first save. This also marks the second of his career. He threw 18 pitches (55.6 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s been scoreless in his last six appearances with eight strikeouts against one walk and has not allowed a run in ten of his previous 11.

  • Tyler Rogers notched his 25th hold with a clean eighth and struck out one.

Hierarchy remains: Ryan Walker | Tyler Rogers | Jordan Hicks

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 10

Before delving into Friday night’s game action, San Francisco demoted Camilo Doval from his closing duties and sent him to Triple-A to work on his mechanics and improve his command. Initial reports indicated Bob Melvin preferred keeping Ryan Walker in this “fireman” role. After a walk-off win, he named his best reliever the interim closer, with quotes in this column by Evan Webeck of The Mercury News, and reflected in our new hierarchy for the Giants:

Adjusted Hierarchy: Ryan Walker | Tyler Rogers | Jordan Hicks

During Friday’s games, relievers recorded eight wins and six saves, with two by Twins relievers in a sweep of Cleveland. All of yesterday’s high-leverage events of interest are covered in our condensed recaps.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Justin Martinez (ARI) tossed a scoreless top of the ninth with the score tied, facing the Phililies’ 2-3-4-5 hitters and allowing a hit while striking out one. He collected his fifth win on a walk-off home run in the bottom of the inning. 
  • A.J. Minter (ATL) ceded the lead in the bottom of the seventh in Colorado, giving up two hits and an earned run, resulting in his fourth loss. 
  • Yennier Cano (BAL) allowed a lead-off home run in a non-save outing and finished a three-run win over the Rays. This snapped his modest four-game scoreless streak. 
  • Lucas Sims (BOS) took over a two-run lead in the top of the seventh and allowed a game-tying Jose Altuve two-run home run. Sims finished with four hits against and four earned runs, resulting in his fifth loss and third blown save over one-third of an inning. 
  • Héctor Neris (CHC) navigated around traffic for a scoreless ninth and his 16th save. He gave up two hits and a walk during a one-run win over the White Sox. 
  • Victor Vodnik (COL) recorded his seventh save with a scoreless ninth against Atlanta. He allowed a hit and recorded a game-ending strikeout of Austin Riley. Tyler Kinley was awarded his fifth win, tossing a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit, and striking out one. 
  • Jason Foley (DET) stranded a runner in the eighth, keeping the game tied. Returning for the ninth, Heliot Ramos reached on an error, followed by a walk and a hit batter. Shelby Miller replaced him with the bases loaded and recorded an out before giving up a walk-off sacrifice fly by Mark Canha, resulting in Foley’s fourth loss of the season. 
  • Kaleb Ort (HOU) collected his first win, working 1.1 clean frames and striking out three in Boston. 
  • Will Smith (KCR) entered with a one-run lead and gave up a hit, two earned runs, and a walk during one-third of the eighth, suffering his fourth loss and eighth blown save. Chris Stratton let both inherited runners score, resulting in his third blown. 
  • Ben Joyce (LAA) took over with the “place” runner on third and one out in the tenth. He allowed a walk-off single by Alex Call with the infield in, resulting in a third loss for Matt Moore. 
  • Brett de Geus (MIA) suffered his first loss. He gave up three hits and four runs (three earned) in the top of the tenth against San Diego. 
  • Jhoan Durán (MIN) secured his 16th save and first of the second half with a scoreless ninth in Game 1 against Cleveland. He allowed a hit and recorded three strikeouts. 
  • Trevor Richards (MIN) recorded his first save with a clean ninth, completing a sweep of Cleveland. This represents his first save since April 20, 2021, and the second of his career. Cole Sands retired four batters, two via strikeout, and collected his sixth win. 
  • Jeff Hoffman (PHI) did not record an out, allowing Adrian Del Castillo’s walk-off home run leading off the bottom of the ninth, resulting in his second loss. 
  • Jason Adam (SDP) collected his seventh win and third in his last four appearances for the Padres, firing a clean bottom of the ninth and striking out two. His teammates plated four runs in the top of the tenth. 
  • Ryan Helsey (STL) worked around a hit and a walk with a game-ending double play groundout for his MLB-leading 37th save. Matthew Liberatore logged three scoreless frames, issuing a walk and striking out three en route to his third win. 
  • Chad Green (TOR) retired the side against the A’s for his 11th save. He’s converted each save chance this season. 
  • Kyle Finnegan (WSH) collected his third win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the tenth. He logged his first two-inning outing of the season, giving up a walk and striking out two without allowing a run.

Vulture Save Options for Saturday, August 10

  • Roansy Contreras (LAA): Joyce has worked in two straight games.
  • JoJo Romero (STL): Helsley and Kittredge have pitched in three of the last four.
  • Mark Leiter Jr. (NYY): With a doubleheader, he could nab a vulture save in Game 2 if they sweep.
  • Derek Law (WSH): Finnegan’s appeared in back-to-back games and thrown 57 pitches.

Vulture Save Options for Sunday, August 11

  • Paul Sewald (ARI): If Martinez and Puk pitch today, it will be two straight games.
  • Julian Merryweather (CHC): If Neris gets used in today’s game, he will have appeared on consecutive days.
  • Aroldis Chapman (PIT): If David Bednar’s struggles continue, the team may turn to its high-octane southpaw.

Three Takeaways

  • Walker’s up, Doval’s down: This will be a tough two weeks for Camilo Doval. Working on command in the Pacific Coast League, a known favorable hitter environment, will be a challenge, but he must meet if he plans to retake the closer role. As for Ryan Walker, he can stake his claim in the hierarchy as the interim closer. With a 7-3 record and 21 holds, his 71:13 K:BB (24.9 K-BB percentage) and 0.88 WHIP stand out. He also does not have noticeable hitter splits. Against left-handed batters, he’s produced a 22.9 K-BB percentage with a 0.94 WHIP, a .272 weighted on-base average (wOBA), and a .212 batting average against through 109 batters faced. Versus right-handed hitters, he’s even more filthy with a 41:8 K:BB (26.6 K-BB percentage), a 0.83 WHIP, a .171 batting average allowed, and a .225 wOBA.
  • J-Mart emerging in the desert?: With the leverage ladder rested, Torey Lovullo summoned rookie Justin Martinez in a tied game at the top of the ninth against the heart of the Phillies lineup. He responded with a scoreless inning, allowing an Alec Bohm single and striking out Bryce Harper. It’s tough trusting a reliever with potential command issues, but the flamethrowing reliever may take over Arizona’s primary save share. This will be monitored closely, but he profiles best as the closer and has arrived ahead of schedule.
  • Harvey atop the hierarchy in Kansas City?: Once again, the team used Lucas Erceg in the most significant moment ahead of the ninth inning. He secured his 17th hold with a scoreless seventh inning matching up against the Cardinals’ top of the lineup. With the team down by three, James McArthur stranded the bases loaded with consecutive strikeouts against both batters faced, but this usage pattern puts Hunter Harvey in the driver’s seat for saves down the stretch.

American League – Full Recaps, August 9

Houston Astros – In ascending order of appearance, Bryan King took over in the fifth, retiring the side and striking out one.

  • Kaleb Ort collected his first win, working 1.1 clean frames and striking out three on 25 pitches (64 Strike%) with two whiffs.
  • Caleb Ferguson notched his 11th hold, allowing a hit and a walk over one-third scoreless in the seventh.
  • Tayler Scott stranded two runners in the seventh with a strikeout for his fifth hold.
  • Bryan Abreu secured his American League-leading 28th hold with a scoreless eighth, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out one.
  • Ryan Pressly allowed an earned run and two walks during a rainy bottom of the ninth.

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

Kansas City Royals – Taking over with his team down by three in the top of the ninth, James McArthur stranded the bases-loaded with consecutive strikeouts of Tommy Pham and Victor Scott II.

  • Angel Zerpa gave up three hits, two earned runs, and two walks while striking out one in one-third of the ninth.
  • Chris Stratton suffered his third blown save, letting both inherited runners score on a Scott II double.
  • Will Smith allowed a hit, two earned runs, and a walk during one-third of the eighth, resulting in his fourth loss and eighth blown save.
  • Lucas Erceg worked a scoreless seventh against the top of the lineup, giving up a hit and striking out one for his 17th hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Hunter Harvey | Lucas Erceg | James McArthur

Minnesota Twins – Securing his first save of the second half and 16th of the season, Jhoan Durán worked around a two-out single and recorded all three outs via strikeout, preserving a two-run win over Cleveland in Game 1. He threw 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in his last three appearances, and this represents the first time he’s registered three strikeouts in an outing in 2024.

  • Griffin Jax retired the side on 12 pitches in the eighth for his 18th hold.
  • Jorge Alcala was credited with his 14th hold despite giving up two hits, including Brayan Rocchio’s two-run home run in the seventh. He’s allowed a home run in three of his last seven games.

Completing a sweep in Game 2, Trevor Richards recorded his first save and the second of his career (last April 20, 2021) with a clean top of the ninth against Cleveland. He threw nine pitches (88.9 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%) while striking out one.

  • Caleb Thielbar logged two scoreless frames and recorded two strikeouts for his eighth hold.
  • Cole Sands collected his sixth win. He stranded two runners in the fifth and retired all four batters, two via strikeout. 

Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala

Toronto Blue Jays – Finishing a two-run win over Oakland, Chad Green secured his 11th save with a clean top of the ninth. He threw 11 pitches (54.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in 10 of his last 11 while converting all six save opportunities with 10 strikeouts against one walk.

  • Erik Swanson notched his sixth hold, issuing a walk during a scoreless eighth. He owns a modest four-game scoreless streak. 

Updated Hierarchy: Chad Green | Erik Swanson | Génesis Cabrera

National League – Full Recaps, August 9

Arizona Diamondbacks – Taking over a tied game in the top of the ninth versus the Phillies’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket, Justin Martinez recorded a scoreless inning, working around an Alec Bohm single and striking out one. He collected his fifth win courtesy of a walk-off home run in the bottom of the innings. Martinez may be emerging as the preferred save option based on this usage pattern. He threw 13 pitches (11 strikes – 84.6 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless over his last six appearances, posting this win and two saves in his last three.

  • A.J. Puk let his only inherited runner score on a Johan Rojas RBI double in the eighth, getting tagged with his third blown save. Puk recorded both outs on strikeouts during his two-thirds of an inning.

Updated Hierarchy: Justin Martinez | A.J. Puk | Paul Sewald

Chicago Cubs – Hanging on for his 16th save, Héctor Neris loaded the bases on two hits and a walk but induced a game-ending Andrew Vaughn flyout, preserving a one-run win. He’s been scoreless in six of eight appearances in the second half, recording a win and three saves.

  • Porter Hodge worked 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out one for his seventh hold.
  • Drew Smyly gave up Andrew Benintendi’s solo home run during two-thirds of the seventh for his fifth hold.
  • Tyson Miller secured his eighth hold, giving up a hit and striking out two in a scoreless sixth.

Hierarchy remains: Héctor Neris | Porter Hodge | Tyson Miller

Colorado Rockies – Securing his seventh save against his former franchise, Victor Vodnik tossed a scoreless ninth. He allowed a hit and produced a game-ending strikeout of Austin Riley, preserving the one-run lead. He’s converted seven of eight save chances since July 13.

  • Tyler Kinley was awarded his fifth win, working a scoreless eighth. He gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout. He’s been scoreless over his last seven appearances.
  • Angel Chivilli suffered his first blown save, allowing a game-tying Jorge Soler, scoring an inherited runner, and putting an earned run on his ledger.
  • Justin Lawrence was credited with his third hold despite giving up two hits and two earned runs over 1.1 innings.

Hierarchy remains: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence

San Diego Padres – Preserving a four-run win in the bottom of the tenth, Tanner Scott stranded the “place” runner despite allowing an infield hit.

  • Jason Adam collected his seventh win, firing a clean bottom of the ninth and striking out two. He benefited from his teammates scoring four runs in the top of the tenth. He’s recorded a win in his last two outings and three of his last four with the Padres.
  • Bryan Hoeing tossed a clean eighth, striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Robert Suarez | Tanner Scott | Jason Adam

St. Louis Cardinals – Dealing with traffic in the bottom of the ninth, Ryan Helsley bent but did not break, securing his MLB-leading 37th save. He allowed a one-out single and walked Bobby Witt Jr. before inducing a game-ending double play groundout by Vinnie Pasquantino. Helsley threw 13 pitches (7 strikes – 53.8 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s converted his last four save opportunities but has allowed multiple baserunners in his previous three.

  • Andrew Kittredge notched his MLB-leading 30th hold, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
  • Matthew Liberatore collected his third win, logging three scoreless frames. He issued a walk and recorded three strikeouts.

Hierarchy remains: Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | JoJo Romero

Washington Nationals – Working two scoreless frames, Kyle Finnegan collected his third win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the tenth. He issued a walk and recorded two strikeouts in his outing, throwing 29 pitches (18 strikes – 62.1 Strike%) with four whiffs (13.8 SwStr%). This represents his first two-inning appearance this year, and he’s logged five multi-inning contests this season.

  • Jacob Barnes tossed 1.2 scoreless innings, giving up two hits and striking out three. He also stranded two runners in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Kyle Finnegan | Robert Garcia | Derek Law

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 9

Thursday’s 10-game slate yielded a bevy of exciting high-leverage storylines. Two relievers entered the day tied with 22.2-inning scoreless streaks (Tyler Holton and Ben Joyce), but both ended. Six of the ten games had a reliever record the win. There were also four saves, including the first by Carlos Estévez with his new team, but only one was scoreless, Pete Fairbanks against St. Louis.

More concerning for fantasy managers, David Bednar suffered a blown save for a second straight day, and Camilo Doval was awarded a win but allowed three earned runs in the bottom of the ninth. These topics will covered in our takeaways. First, here are the condensed recaps from yesterday’s high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Raisel Iglesias (ATL) retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the seventh, appearing during a loss. He’s been scoreless over his last eight outings but has only secured one save in the second half. 
  • Buck Farmer (CIN) stranded two runners in the eighth and logged 1.1 scoreless innings en route to his first win, courtesy of his team’s seven-run rally in the top of the tenth. 
  • Will Vest (DET) gave up Mitch Haniger’s walk-off bases-clearing double, resulting in his fourth loss and fifth blown save. He finished with two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out two over two-thirds of the ninth inning.
  • Ben Joyce (LAA) logged a non-save appearance, his first since Saturday, and had his 22.2-inning scoreless streak on an Oswaldo Cabrera solo home run. Joyce finished his outing with a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two on 19 pitches with three whiffs (15.8 SwStr%). 
  • Elvis Peguero (MIL) took over in the bottom of the fifth and tossed a scoreless inning, collecting his seventh win during a lopsided contest in Atlanta. 
  • Emmanuel Ramirez (MIA) struggled in the top of the tenth. He gave up three hits, seven runs (five earned), two walks, and a hit batter without recording an out. This resulted in his first loss. 
  • Carlos Estévez (PHI) held on for his first save with the Phillies and 21st of the season, finishing a two-run win over Arizona. He gave up two hits, including Jake McCarthy’s RBI single, scoring Geraldo Perdomo, who reached second on an errant pick-off attempt. 
  • David Bednar (PIT) suffered his fifth blown save and second in as many days, allowing three runs on two hits and two walks while striking out two in two-thirds of the ninth. He also absorbed his fourth loss while giving up at least a run for a fourth straight appearance. 
  • Robert Suarez (SDP) held on for his 25th save. He allowed a two-out double and an RBI single before inducing a game-ending strikeout, preserving a one-run win in Pittsburgh. Jason Adam earned his sixth win, tossing a scoreless eighth ahead of his team’s rally in the top of the ninth. 
  • JT Chargois (SEA) collected his second win. He fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts, then benefited from his team’s three-run walk-off rally in the bottom of the frame.
  • Camilo Doval (SFG) suffered his fifth blown save, giving up a game-tying three-run home run in the bottom of the ninth. He collected his fourth win, courtesy of his team’s four-run rally in the top of the tenth. 
  • JoJo Romero (STL) took over with a runner on in the top of the seventh and allowed Brandon Lowe’s go-ahead two-run home run. This haded Romero his second loss and sixth blown save, along with an earned run on his ledger during his 1.1-inning outing. 
  • Pete Fairbanks (TBR) shut the door on his 22nd save with a clean bottom of the ninth, closing out a two-run win in St. Louis. 
  • Chad Green (TOR) recorded his tenth save but let all three inherited runners score and an earned run on his ledger. He allowed two hits and an earned run in the top of the ninth while preserving a one-run win over the Orioles. 
  • Robert Garcia (WSH) stranded a runner in the top of the ninth, then allowed four unearned runs in the top of the tenth, resulting in his fourth loss. Kyle Finnegan gave up two hits, three runs (two earned), and two walks while striking out one over two-thirds of the ninth.

Three Takeaways

  • Doval’s walks are an issue: As Andrew Baggarly noted in his game recap for The Athletic, Camilo Doval entered this season with a career 3.6 walks per nine innings rate. After yesterday’s outing, he owns a 5.9 walks per nine innings rate. Pitching conditions on Thursday were less than ideal, but he’s throwing fewer pitches in the zone this season. His slider has produced a 15.1 walk percentage and a .286 weighted on-base average (wOBA) with a 60.2 strike percentage. His cutter and sinker both have wOBAs over .370, with swinging strike percentages below 10 percent. Over the last statistical year (365 days), he ranks tied for ninth in saves (28) but has suffered 10 blown saves with the sixth worst WHIP (1.59) among all qualified relievers and the ninth highest walk rate (13.1 percent). His grip on the ninth inning may be slipping, as his rolling 10-game chart illustrates:
  • Bednar’s allowing too much traffic: Recent outings have also affected David Bednar. He’s suffered a blown save in consecutive contests despite throwing with higher velocity. As many understand, it’s location and sequencing, not necessarily the speed of pitches. Remaining with today’s takeaway theme of the last 365 days, he’s recorded the fourth most saves (36) but his K-BB percentage and contact rates allowed are trending in the wrong direction. Beneath his surface statistics, he’s allowed a .326 wOBA with his four-seam fastball resulting in a 300 percent-plus rise in his on-base plus slugging percentage allowed (.876 in 2024) compared with last year. His split-fingered fastball has also yielded a .302 wOBA with a .707 OPS (up .165 versus 2023). Bednar’s 10-game rolling chart illustrates his recent struggles:
  • Finnegan too?: With deference to yesterday’s conditions, Kyle Finnegan did not get tagged with a blown save or a loss, but he did allow two hits and two walks, resulting in three runs (two earned). In the last statistical year, he’s third in saves (40), but one of three relievers with a WHIP over 1.30 and more than 25 saves (Doval and Alexis Díaz). Finnegan’s 1.34 WHIP over his last 68 games with a 12.4 K-BB percentage and 79.1 percent contact rate allowed may explain why contenders would not overpay for his services at the trade deadline. He’s under no imminent threat in his own bullpen’s hierarchy, but he’s also trending in the wrong direction:

Vulture Save Options for Friday, August 9

  • Tanner Scott (SDP): Suarez has worked in back-to-back games.
  • Anthony Bender (MIA): Faucher and Nardi have pitched in two straight games.
  • Kyle Nicolas (PIT): Bednar has blown two straight saves working on consecutive days, and Chapman has appeared in the previous two contests.
  • Jordan Hicks (SFG): Doval and Walker have pitched in consecutive days.

Vulture Save Options for Saturday, August 10

  • Joe Jiménez (ATL): If Iglesias pitches tonight it will be back-to-back outings.

American League – August 8 Full Recaps

Detroit Tigers – Taking over with a runner on in the top of the ninth, Will Vest suffered his fourth loss and fifth blown save. He allowed a single by Randy Arozarena and recorded two strikeouts; then, his outing took a turn for the worse. Vest walked Jorge Polanco, loading the bases, and gave up Mitch Haniger’s walk-off three-RBI double.

  • Tyler Holton was credited with his seventh hold. He stranded a runner in the seventh and logged 1.2 innings, allowing two hits and an earned run. He faced one batter in the ninth, yielding a single by Luke Raley, who eventually scored on the game-winning rally, snapping his scoreless streak. He last allowed an earned run on June 26.
  • Bryan Sammons worked 4.1 innings as the “bulk follower,” giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out four.

Hierarchy remains: *Tyler Holton | *Jason Foley | Will Vest

*= closer-by-committee

Seattle Mariners – After JT Chargois worked a clean top of the ninth with two strikeouts, he collected his second win courtesy of a three-run, walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. He threw 14 pitches (9 strikes – 64.3 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%).

  • Yimi García stranded two runners in the seventh and retired all four batters faced, two via strikeout on 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) with five whiffs (35.7 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in five of six outings since joining the Mariners.

Hierarchy remains: Andrés Muñoz | Yimi García | Austin Voth

Tampa Bay Rays – Capping a comeback win, Pete Fairbanks nailed down his 22nd save with a clean bottom of the ninth, preserving a two-run win in St. Louis. He threw eight pitches (87.5 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s been scoreless in his last six games and converted 12 consecutive save chances since June 23.

  • Colin Poche notched his 15th hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the eighth.
  • Manuel Rodríguez secured his seventh hold, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless seventh.
  • Richard Lovelady collected his third win, giving up two hits during a scoreless sixth. 

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Colin Poche | Manuel Rodríguez

Toronto Blue Jays – Inheriting a bases-loaded situation in the top of the ninth, Chad Green let all three score. His outing began with a fielder’s choice groundout, scoring one runner, followed by Cedric Mullins’ RBI double, a strikeout, and a two-RBI single by Colton Cowser. With two outs, Green bore down and recorded a game-ending flyout by Anthony Santander for his tenth save. He allowed two hits and an earned run while striking out one. This snapped his nine-game scoreless streak, but he’s converted all ten save chances this season.

  • Zach Pop took over in the ninth, giving up three consecutive hits, prompting his removal.

Hierarchy remains: Chad Green | Zach Pop | Génesis Cabrera

National League – August 8 Full Recaps

Philadelphia Phillies – Despite allowing a run due to his errant pick-off attempt, Carlos Estévez secured his 21st save and first with his new team, closing out a two-run win in Arizona. His outing began with Geraldo Perdomo’s lead-off single, followed by two strikeouts. Perdomo moved to second on a throwing error by the closer and scored on Jake McCarthy’s RBI single with two outs before a game-ending flyout by Lourdes Gurriel Jr. Estévez threw 17 pitches (13 strikes – 76.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

  • José Alvarado worked around two walks and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless eighth for his eighth hold.
  • Jeff Hoffman notched his 15th hold, yielding a hit and striking out two in a scoreless seventh.
  • Orion Kerkering was credited with his 11th hold. He allowed two hits, including a two-run home run by McCarthy, and two walks while striking out two in the sixth.

Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Jeff Hoffman | José Alvarado

Pittsburgh Pirates – With a one-run lead in the top of the ninth, David Bednar suffered his fourth loss and fifth blown save. His outing began with Xander Bogaerts’ lead-off single, followed by a walk, a strikeout, and another walk, loading the bases. Two runs scored during a fielder’s choice error, and Luis Arraez produced an RBI double, prompting Bednar’s removal. He finished with two hits, three runs, and two walks while striking out one over two-thirds of an inning. He’s allowed at least a run in four straight games, multiple hits in three, and back-to-back blown saves. He may be entering the “hot seat” zone, will be reading the post game quotes from his manager closely. 

  • Kyle Nicolas hit a batter and recorded a strikeout, completing the ninth.
  • Aroldis Chapman fired a clean eighth and recorded a strikeout for his 18th hold.
  • Jalen Beeks stranded a runner and retired his only batter in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Kyle Nicolas

San Diego Padres – Capping his team’s rally, Robert Suarez held on for his 25th save. He allowed a two-out double and an opposite-field Rowdy Tellez RBI single before a game-ending strikeout. Suarez threw 19 pitches (13 strikes – 68.4 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (15.8 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts. He’s converted two wins and three of four save chances with 10 strikeouts against one walk across 7.2 innings in the second half.

  • Jason Adam collected his sixth win, giving up a hit in a scoreless eighth ahead of his team’s three-run rally in the top of the ninth.
  • Yuki Matsui suffered his fourth blown save, allowing two hits, including Joey Bart’s go-ahead two-run home run during his 1.1-inning outing.

Hierarchy remains: Robert Suarez | Tanner Scott | Jason Adam

San Francisco Giants – Entering the bottom of the tenth with a four-run lead, Taylor Rogers retired the side and recorded two strikeouts.

  • Camilo Doval had an eventful bottom of the ninth. He issued a lead-off walk, a leverage mortal sin, but induced a groundout, walked a second hitter, recorded an out, and then gave up Luis Garcia Jr.’s game-tying three-run home run. Doval suffered his fifth blown save but collected his fourth win courtesy of a four-run rally in the top of the tenth. He threw 24 pitches (13 strikes – 54.2 Strike%) and did not produce a whiff. He’s converted five of six save chances in the second half while allowing at least a run in three of his seven appearances with a 1.57 WHIP.
  • Ryan Walker fired a clean eighth, striking out one.
  • Erik Miller worked a clean seventh, striking out two.
  • Jordan HIcks navigated around a hit and a walk during a scoreless sixth.

Hierarchy remains: Camilo Doval | Ryan Walker | Tyler Rogers

Washington Nationals – Summoned in the ninth with a runner on and two outs, Robert Garcia induced an inning-ending groundout. In the tenth, things could have gone better. He allowed a baserunner on a fielder’s choice error, an RBI single scoring the “place” runner, another fielder’s choice error, a pop-out, a strikeout, and Michael Conforto’s two-RBI single, prompting his removal. Garcia finished his combined inning with two hits, four unearned runs, and a strikeout, resulting in his fourth loss.

  • Joan Adon gave up a single, scoring one of two inherited runners, and recorded an out.
  • Kyle Finnegan took over a tied game in the top of the ninth and allowed two hits, three runs (two earned), and two walks while striking out one in two-thirds of an inning. He’s given up multiple runs in three of his last five outings and has posted a 2.00 WHIP through seven innings in the second half.
  • Derek Law logged two scoreless frames, spanning a rain delay, giving up two hits and striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Kyle Finnegan | Robert Garcia | Derek Law

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 8

Two doubleheaders boosted Wednesday’s full slate to 17 games. Relievers recorded six wins and nine saves, with only one contest reaching extra innings between San Diego and Pittsburgh. David Bednar suffered his first blown save since April, and Adrian Morejon recorded his first major league save in a battle between postseason hopefuls. Mason Miller returned from the injured list and hit triple digits during his 16th save.

Although he did not enter the game once his team extended its lead, Tyler Holton warmed for the save chance but sat down when the lead reached four in the top of the ninth in Seattle. Last, with his team up by one, Yennier Cano took over in the bottom of the seventh, operating like an HLR (highest leveraged reliever), not a closer. Our condensed recaps cover all of yesterday’s high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Justin Martinez (ARI) secured his second save in Game 2 against Cleveland. He navigated around a lead-off bloop single, his fielder’s choice throwing error, and a two-out walk before producing a game-ending strikeout of Lane Thomas. 
  • Paul Sewald (ARI) warmed for a save chance but logged a scoreless top of the ninth despite allowing a hit and a walk, preserving a four-run win in Game 1. In case he was needed, Martinez was warming with two runners on. 
  • Pierce Johnson (ATL) suffered his fourth loss. He stranded two inherited runners in the fifth but could not record an out in the fifth. He allowed three earned runs on a hit and three walks during one-third of an inning. 
  • Burch Smith (BAL) took over in the sixth with his team down one. He retired the side and recorded a strikeout ahead of his team’s rally at the top of the season, collecting his third win. 
  • Jorge López (CHC) was awarded his second win. He logged two scoreless frames, giving up two hits and striking out two against the Twins. 
  • Touki Toussaint (CHW) entered in the seventh with a two-run lead and gave up two hits, three earned runs, and a walk while retiring one batter. This resulted in his second loss and credit for his first hold. 
  • Victor Vodnik (COL) took over a tied game in the top of the ninth against the Mets but suffered his second loss. During two-thirds of an inning, he allowed three hits, three earned runs, and two walks while striking out one. 
  • Josh Hader (HOU) appeared for a third straight game for the first time since last September and recorded his 24th save during a two-run win over Texas. He fired a clean ninth and struck out one on 11 pitches. 
  • Hunter Strickland (LAA) took over with a six-run lead in the bottom of the fifth and tossed two scoreless innings for his third win. He gave up two hits and a walk while striking out one. 
  • Alex Vesia (LAD) stranded a runner while retiring Bryce Harper in the top of the fifth. He returned in the sixth, allowing a double and a runner to reach on a fielder’s choice via interference. He was tagged with his fourth loss and two unearned runs when Joe Kelly let both inherited runners score, culminating in Kyle Schwarber’s grand slam and his second blown save. 
  • Calvin Faucher (MIA) held on for his second save, working around a lead-off walk, a double, and a hit batter for a scoreless ninth during a two-run win over the Reds. 
  • Devin Williams (MIL) gave up Jarred Kelenic’s solo home run and recorded three strikeouts in a non-save outing, completing a three-run win in Atlanta. 
  • Trevor Richards (MIN) suffered his second loss. He took over for an injured Joe Ryan in the third. In his outing, he gave up a hit, three earned runs, and five walks over two-thirds of the third inning. 
  • Edwin Díaz (NYM) secured his 14th save despite allowing a lead-off triple, resulting in an earned run on a fielder’s choice groundout. He also recorded two strikeouts while preserving a two-run win in Coors. José Buttó collected his fifth win, logging two scoreless frames. He gave up a hit and struck out two. 
  • Clay Holmes (NYY) secured his 24th save with a clean ninth and two strikeouts. He’s been scoreless in his last four appearances. 
  • Mason Miller (OAK) returned from the injured list, securing his 16th save with a clean ninth against the White Sox and hitting 102.2 m.p.h., displaying no rust from his absence. 
  • Colin Holderman (PIT) took over in the tenth and suffered his fifth loss. He allowed two hits, three runs (two earned), and a walk. David Bednar had his save streak snapped on a Jackson Merrill game-tying solo home run, resulting in his fourth blown save, first since April 21. 
  • Adrian Morejon (SDP) recorded his first major league save, finishing a one-run extra-inning win against Pittsburgh. He let one of three inherited runners score on a wild pitch, then settled in by retiring the next three hitters. 
  • Camilo Doval (SFG) produced a game-ending double play, thwarting a bases-loaded situation and preserving a three-run win for his 22nd save. He allowed a hit, a walk, and a hit batter but no runs in his outing. 
  • Ryan Burr (TOR) allowed two hits, including a go-ahead Jackson Holliday two-run home run, resulting in his first loss and a first blown save.

Vulture Options for Thursday, August 8

  • Anthony Bender (MIA): Faucher has pitched in two straight, and Nardi’s struggles yesterday pave the way for a Bender save if the opportunity presents itself.
  • JoJo Romero (STL): Helsley and Kittredge have appeared in two straight.
  • Elvis Peguero (MIL): Williams has not been cleared for back-to-back outings, and Payamps has been logging HLR appearances.

Vulture Options for Friday, August 9

  • Phil Maton (NYM): If Díaz pitches again today, it will be consecutive outings.
  • Jorge Alcala (MIN): With a doubleheader on tap, he could receive a save chance in the event of a sweep.
  • Scott Barlow (CLE): On the other side of this match-up, he could get a save if the Guardians sweep.

Three Takeaways

  • Arizona’s hierarchy: Wednesday’s doubleheader helped discern roles in the Diamondbacks leverage ladder. Paul Sewald warmed up for the save chance but still worked the ninth in Game 1 with a four-run lead. He did allow two baserunners, prompting Justin Martinez to start warming up just in case. A.J. Puk pitched in the seventh, facing a tough left-handed hitter. He’s the “fireman.” Martinez held on for his second save during a sweep in Game 2. He may be the preferred save option right now, and if Sewald cannot find his mojo, the flamethrowing rookie may become the closer ahead of schedule.
  • Baltimore’s hierarchy: While Craig Kimbrel works on another reset in lower-leveraged outings, Yennier Cano has been the team’s highest-leveraged reliever (HLR). He’s not the closer, and the team’s not deploying one. He will face the most challenging lineup pockets in the seventh, eighth, or ninth inning, depending on when a player like Vlad Guerrero Jr. will hit.
  • Detroit’s hierarchy: When his team was ahead by one in the bottom of the eighth, Tyler Holton began warming for the save chance while Jason Foley pitched. After his teammates tacked on three runs in the top of the ninth created a non-save situation, Holton sat down, and rookie Brenan Hanifee worked a scoreless inning instead, preserving a four-run win. Although A.J. Hinch prefers not placing labels on his relievers, Holton may be emerging as the preferred option for saves.

American League – Full Recaps

Baltimore Orioles – Taking over in the sixth, Burch Smith retired the side and recorded two strikeouts. He was awarded his third win courtesy of his team’s rally in the top of the seventh inning.

  • Yennier Cano entered with a one-run lead against the 9-1-2 lineup pocket, operating as the HLR. He gave up two hits but no runs, including a long flyout by Vlad Guerrero Jr. for his 25th hold.
  • Cionel Pérez fired a clean eighth and struck out one.
  • Seranthony Domínguez worked around a lead-off double with three consecutive outs, including one strikeout, finishing a four-run win in Toronto.

Hierarchy remains: *Yennier Cano | *Craig Kimbrel | Seranthony Domínguez

*= closer-by-committee

Houston Astros – Appearing in a third straight game, Josh Hader retired the side and recorded a strikeout while preserving a two-run win against Texas. He threw 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). This marked the first time he’s worked in three consecutive contests all season, and he’s been scoreless in 11 of his last 12 games while converting all nine save chances.

  • Ryan Pressly allowed three hits and an earned run during his 20th hold in the eighth.
  • Bryan Abreu secured his 27th hold, stranding a runner in the sixth and logging 1.1 scoreless frames. He gave up a hit and struck out one.

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

New York Yankees – Locking down his 24th save, Clay Holmes fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts during a three-run win over the Angels in Game 1. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in his last four appearances and converted three of four save chances.

  • Luke Weaver notched his 18th hold with a clean eighth, striking out two.
  • Jake Cousins gave up two hits, including Zach Neto’s solo home run in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Clay Holmes | Luke Weaver | Mark Leiter Jr.

Oakland A’s – Activated from the injured list and straight into a save situation, Mason Miller retired the side while preserving a one-run win over the White Sox for his 16th save. He threw 13 pitches (61.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff. His velocity was in line with his seasonal averages.

  • Tyler Ferguson notched his second hold, firing a clean eighth and striking out two.
  • T.J. McFarland collected his second win. He tossed a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and striking out one.
  • Will Klein worked a clean sixth and struck out one.

Updated Hierarchy: Mason Miller | Tyler Ferguson | Austin Adams

National League – Full Recaps

Arizona Diamondbacks – Warming up for a potential save chance in the eighth, Paul Sewald settled for a non-save outing with a four-run lead in the bottom of the ninth in Cleveland during Game 1. He allowed a one-out single by Andrés Giménez and issued a two-out walk before inducing a game-ending groundout by Bo Naylor. Sewald threw 19 pitches (12 strikes – 63.2 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

  • Joe Mantiply secured his tenth hold, stranding two runners and retiring his only batter faced in the eighth, securing his tenth hold.
  • Dylan Floro gave up three two-out hits and an earned run during his 11th hold in two-thirds of the eighth.
  • A.J. Puk recoded outs against both batters in the seventh for his tenth hold.

Walking a high-wire act in the bottom of the ninth, Justin Martinez overcame traffic and his own throwing error while securing his second save in Game 2. His outing began with a bloop single, followed by a flyout, a fielder’s choice error trying to get the lead runner at second, a strikeout, a walk loading the bases, and a game-ending strikeout of Lane Thomas. Martinez threw 28 pitches (17 strikes – 60.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).

  • Joe Mantiply stranded a runner while striking out his only batter in the eighth for his 11th hold.
  • Ryan Thompson recorded two outs after giving up a lead-off single by Thomas.
  • Kevin Ginkel logged 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out one while notching his 13th hold. 

Updated Hierarchy: *Justin Martinez | *Paul Sewald | A.J. Puk

*= closer-by-committee

Colorado Rockies – In a rare meltdown, Victor Vodnik suffered his second loss. He allowed three hits, three earned runs, and two walks while striking out one in the top of the ninth. He threw 23 pitches (10 strikes – 43.5 Strike%) and did not induce a whiff.

  • Justin Lawrence stranded two runners for him in the top of the ninth, retiring Pete Alonso via strikeout.
  • Tyler Kinley tossed a scoreless eighth, issuing a walk and striking out one.
  • Angel Chivilli worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one.
  • Chasen Shreve debuted with a scoreless sixth, giving up a hit.

Hierarchy remains: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence

Miami Marlins – Navigating around traffic in the top of the ninth, Calvin Faucher held on for his second save during a two-run win over the Reds. He issued Elly De La Cruz a walk with one out, gave up a Tyler Stephenson double, then bore down. He induced a shallow flyout by TJ Friedl, hit Ty France with a pitch, and then a game-ending groundout by Jeimer Candelario. He’s recorded a save in consecutive outings and been scoreless in four of his last five.

  • Jesús Tinoco notched his second hold with a clean eighth and struck out one.
  • Andrew Nardi struggled in the seventh. He took over with two runners on and one out, issued a walk, recorded a strikeout, and then allowed a grand slam, putting two earned on his ledger over two-thirds of an inning.

Updated Hierarchy: Calvin Faucher | Andrew Nardi | Anthony Bender

New York Mets – Despite allowing a lead-off triple, Edwin Díaz recorded his 14th save during a two-run win in Colorado. He did allow an earned run on a groundout and registered two strikeouts in his outing. He threw 17 pitches (14 strikes – 82.3 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (23.5 SwStr%). Since July 9, he’s converted six straight save chances and been scoreless in six of eight outings.

  • José Buttó collected his fifth win, his fourth since July 2 as a reliever. He logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out two. He’s produced 24 strikeouts against six walks with a 0.68 WHIP across 20.2 innings through ten relief outings.

Hierarchy remains: Edwin Díaz | Phil Maton | Huascar Brazobán

Pittsburgh Pirates – Taking over in the top of the tenth, Colin Holderman suffered his fifth loss. He allowed two hits, three runs (two earned), and a walk against the Padres. He’s allowed at least a run in five straight games.

  • David Bednar gave up Jackson Merrill’s game-tying solo home run and issued a walk while striking out one in the ninth, resulting in his fourth blown save. This snapped his save streak at 19 and represented his first blown save since April 12. He’s allowed a run in three straight appearances.
  • Aroldis Chapman secured his 17th hold with a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and striking out three.
  • Jalen Beeks retired the side in the seventh for his seventh hold.

Hierarchy remains: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Kyle Nicolas

San Diego Padres – With the bases loaded and no outs in the bottom of the tenth, Adrian Morejon recorded his first major league save in an eventual one-run win. He threw a wild pitch, scoring one inherited runner, induced a fielder’s choice groundout, recorded a strikeout, and a game-ending groundout.

  • Tanner Scott collected his seventh win. He stranded the bases loaded in the ninth, retiring Oneil Cruz on a groundout, then walked the bases loaded in the tenth, forcing his removal from the game.
  • Robert Suarez allowed a hit and a walk (intentional), though his defense mishandled a potential double-play grounder and was removed with the bases loaded and two outs in the ninth because Mike Shildt’s arguing a pitch clock violation was considered a mound visit. 

Hierarchy remains: Robert Suarez | Tanner Scott | Jason Adam

San Francisco Giants – Although the Nationals loaded the bases, Camilo Doval induced a game-ending double play groundout by Alex Call, preserving the three-run win for his 22nd save. His outing began with a hit batter and a single, followed by a one-out walk before he quelled the situation. He threw 17 pitches (8 strikes – 47.1 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s converted his last five save chances since July 21.

  • Tyler Rogers secured his 24th hold with a clean eighth and a strikeout.
  • Ryan Walker stranded two runners despite giving up a hit and struck out one in one-third of the seventh for his 21st hold.

Hierarchy remains: Camilo Doval | Tyler Rogers | Ryan Walker

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Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast