Monkey Bytes: August 7

Two rainouts occurred on Tuesday, which adds two doubleheaders to Wednesday’s full slate. In last night’s action, three relievers recorded wins, one on one pitch, and six saves were also secured, two requiring only one out. These events are covered in our condensed recaps.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Gregory Soto (BAL) suffered his fifth loss and second blown save, allowing four hits, including a go-ahead Alejandro Kirk three-run home run, four earned runs, and an intentional walk (Vlad Guerrero Jr.) over one-third of the sixth inning. 
  • Kenley Jansen (BOS) took over in the bottom of the eighth and retired all four batters, including three on strikeouts, securing a one-run win and his 21st save. 
  • John Brebbia (CHW) closed out a four-run win in Oakland with a clean bottom of the ninth, helping snap his team’s 21-game losing streak. 
  • Victor Vodnik (COL) worked around a lead-off hit for a scoreless ninth, securing his sixth save during a three-run win over the Mets. Justin Lawrence took over in the fifth and logged 1.1 scoreless frames for his fourth win. 
  • Tyler Holton (DET) was summoned with a runner on and two outs. He responded by securing his fourth save, striking out pinch-hitter Mitch Garver and preserving a two-run win in Seattle, extending his scoreless streak to 22 innings. 
  • Josh Hader (HOU) recorded a one-out save, finishing a combined one-hitter. He allowed a walk and induced a game-ending flyout by Josh Jung, preserving a two-run win over Texas and his 23rd save. 
  • Carlos Estévez (PHI) finished a four-run win against the Dodgers with a scoreless ninth, allowing a hit and striking out one. He has not received a save chance since being acquired at the trade deadline. 
  • Bryan Hoeing (SDP) earned his second win, taking over after a prolonged rain delay in Pittsburgh. He logged 3.2 scoreless innings, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out three. 
  • Ryan Helsley (STL) allowed two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one but held on for his MLB-leading 35th save. 
  • Chad Green (TOR) nailed down his ninth save with a clean appearance and a strikeout, finishing a three-run win over Baltimore. He also extended his scoreless streak to nine games (11 innings). 

Three Takeaways

  • Kimbrel and his four-seam fastball: While Brandon Hyde remains non-committal about his team’s leverage roles, Craig Kimbrel appeared with his team down by four in the bottom of the seventh. After recording two quick outs, he turned in a scoreless outing, navigating around a hit batter and a single with an inning-ending groundout. Although he’s been unscored upon through three outings in August, he’s allowed two hits and two walks while striking out four, resulting in a 1.33 WHIP. His last clean appearance was July 5, and in the nine games since, he’s posted a 2.08 WHIP with a 6.5 K-BB percentage and a 4.93 SIERA. Updating his splits by velocity chart with the four-seam and adding his entire season and outings since July 7 results illustrates his recent struggles: 

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Ypeaw/4/

  • From a fantasy perspective, Detroit’s bullpen remains fluid: Shelby Miller’s recent results and a shortage of save chances have made this leverage ladder a non-factor. However, Tyler Holton recorded a one-out save in Seattle. He has secured four saves this season and two of his team’s last three since July 19. He extended his scoreless streak to 22 innings and could see a more significant role in high-leverage events if he stops logging appearances as an “opener.” If Brant Hurter can fill Holton’s multiple-inning role, it would let the southpaw receive more opportunities in the late innings. How this plays out will affect his fantasy upside over the last seven-plus weeks.
  • Helsley and fatigue: Following last night’s outing, Ryan Helsley has recorded his second-highest inning total in the majors (48.2). He held on for his 35th save but gave up two hits, an earned run, and a walk against the Rays. Through three appearances in August, he’s let seven of his 15 batters faced reach base (six hits and one walk), resulting in a .389 batting average on balls in play (BAbip). In the second half, he owns a 1.65 WHIP with a 3.99 SIERA and a 13.8 K-BB percentage. It’s not time to panic, but his ratios should be monitored.

Vulture Save Options for Wednesday, August 7

  • Ryan Pressly (HOU): Hader appeared for a second straight game and only threw nine pitches. He could be used today for a third consecutive game, but it’s possible Pressly gets the vulture save opportunity in today’s pivotal matchup.
  • Dylan Floro (ARI): With a doubleheader on tap, in a sweep, he could be the preferred option in Game 2 for the save chance.
  • Kyle Nicolas (PIT): He is the best option for the vulture save in a Pirates sweep.
  • Roansy Conteras (LAA): He’s recorded two saves this season and may be called upon in a doubleheader against the Yankees.
  • Mark Leiter Jr. (NYY): Representing a likely candidate for a vulture save in a sweep in today’s doubleheader versus the Angels.

Vulture Save Option for Thursday, August 8

Usage patterns and ten teams off on Thursday make this tough to forecast. Good news: Cleveland and Minnesota will play a doubleheader on Friday for those stashing for vulture saves early:

  • Griffin Jax (MIN): He could benefit from a save chance in a sweep. Cole Sands will also be in play for a vulture win in a multiple-inning outing in deeper formats.
  • Scott Barlow (CLE): If the Guardians pull off a sweep, Barlow could secure a vulture save. Cade Smith represents the vulture win option in a multi-inning outing.

August 6 – Full Recaps

Boston Red Sox – Making his first appearance since July 31, Kenley Jansen took over in the bottom of the eighth and stranded his only runner while retiring all four batters, three via strikeout, for his 21st save. This marked his third multi-inning save this season and fourth multiple-inning outing. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%).

  • Luis García was credited with his 12th hold despite giving up two hits and an earned run in two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Cam Booser allowed a hit and an earned run during his sixth hold.
  • Zack Kelly retired the side and struck out two in the sixth, securing his seventh hold.
  • Brennan Bernardino collected his fourth win, stranding two runners and retiring his only batter in the fifth on one pitch.

Hierarchy remains: Kenley Jansen | Lucas Sims | Luis García

Colorado Rockies – Navigating around a lead-off single with three consecutive outs, Victor Vodnik secured his sixth save with a scoreless ninth. He threw 16 pitches (50 Strike%) without a whiff. Since July 6, he’s recorded six saves with 13 strikeouts against five walks while being scoreless in nine of 12 appearances.

  • Tyler Kinley fired a clean eighth and recorded two strikeouts for his tenth hold.
  • Angel Chivilli worked around two hits for a scoreless seventh and his first hold.
  • Justin Lawrence collected his fourth win. He tossed 1.1 scoreless innings and stranded a runner in the fifth despite yielding two hits.

Hierarchy remains: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence

Detroit Tigers – Entering with a runner on and two outs, Tyler Holton recorded his fourth save, striking out pinch-hitter Mitch Garver to preserve a two-run win in Seattle. Holton has been working as an “opener” in recent outings but extended his scoreless streak to 22 innings across 15 appearances with a 0.68 WHIP and three saves since June 29.

  • Beau Brieske was credited with his fourth hold. During his two-thirds of the ninth, he allowed a one-out walk and an earned run on a Jorge Polanco single, aided by miscommunication in the outfield.
  • Jason Foley notched his seventh hold with a clean eighth while striking out two.
  • Will Vest retired the side and recorded two strikeouts for his seventh hold in the seventh inning.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Houston Astros – Capping a combined one-hitter, Josh Hader issued a walk and retired Josh Jung on a long fly-out to right for his 23rd save. He threw nine pitches (44.4 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in 10 of his last 11 appearances with 15 strikeouts against seven walks while converting eight saves.

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

St. Louis Cardinals – Hanging on for his 35th save, Ryan Helsley closed out a one-run win over Tampa Bay. His outing began with a lead-off walk and a single. With two outs, Jonny DeLuca produced an RBI single before a game-ending groundout. Helsley finished with two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one on 25 pitches (60 Strike%) with four whiffs (16 SwStr%). He’s converted both save chances this month despite allowing at least a run in two of his last three appearances.

  • Andrew Kittredge notched his NL-leading 28th hold, retiring the side and striking out one in the eighth.

Hierarchy remains: Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | JoJo Romero

Toronto Blue Jays – Shutting the door on his ninth save, Chad Green retired the side and recorded a strikeout, closing out a three-run win over Baltimore. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff. This extended his scoreless streak to nine games, spanning 11 innings, with nine strikeouts against one walk while converting four saves.

  • Génesis Cabrera took over with the bases loaded and no outs in the eighth. He walked his first batter, forcing in a run, then retired the next three batters on two strikeouts and an inning-ending groundout for his fifth hold.

Hierarchy remains: Chad Green | Zach Pop | Génesis Cabrera

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Monkey Bytes: August 6

Monday provided pockets of intrigue during high-leverage events. There were two wins, though one accompanied a blown save (Ryan Thompson) and four saves by relievers. Minnesota used a curious usage pattern, and Justin Martinez closed out a win in extra-innings for Arizona. Our condensed recaps cover all the leverage outcomes of interest from yesterday’s action.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Justin Martinez (ARI) secured his first save, the second of his career, with a scoreless bottom of the tenth in Cleveland. He worked around an intentional walk of José Ramirez and recorded two strikeouts. Ryan Thompson suffered his sixth blown save, allowing an earned run in the ninth, but picked up his sixth win. 
  • Emmanuel Clase (CLE) let the “place” runner score in the top of the tenth on consecutive sacrifices, a bunt, and a flyball, resulting in his second loss. 
  • Caleb Ferguson (HOU) suffered his fourth loss and a second blown save. With two outs, he gave up Josh Smith’s walk-off, two-out walk-off home run in the bottom of the tenth. 
  • Daniel Hudson (LAD) appeared for a third time in four days and recorded his eighth save. His outing began with a lead-off Nick Castellanos single and ended on a pop-out after retiring the next three hitters. This marked his first save since July 22. 
  • Griffin Jax (MIN) recorded his eighth save, his first since June 23, with a scoreless ninth. He allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout, finishing a combined shutout against the Cubs. Jhoan Durán notched his fifth hold, yielding a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth. 
  • Edwin Díaz (NYM) preserved a combined shutout in a non-save outing, his first in August. He retired the side and recorded a strikeout. 
  • Tyler Ferguson (OAK) warmed up for a save chance but closed out a four-run win instead. He fired a clean top of the ninth and struck out two versus the White Sox. 
  • Camilo Doval (SFG) locked down his 21st save, striking out the side during a three-run win over the Marlins.
  • Kirby Yates (TEX) worked a clean ninth but struggled in the tenth, allowing an unearned run on an intentional walk and two hit batters. However, he collected his fourth win courtesy of a walk-off home run. He logged two innings and recorded four strikeouts on 25 pitches.

Three Takeaways

  • Arizona remains unstable: Although Ryan Thompson has appeared in the ninth inning for three straight games in August, he’s only converted one save and allowed a run in each contest on five hits with one strikeout against one walk. His WHIP in the second half sits at 1.23 after this game, but his 9.4 K-BB percentage does not merit his use in save situations. A.J. Puk retired his only batter, Andrés Giménez, in the eighth for his ninth hold, and Justin Martinez intentionally walked José Ramírez and recorded two strikeouts for his first save. Of course, this could all be moot since it feels like Torey Lovullo wants Paul Sewald back in the ninth inning, which could happen as soon as today since the three relievers mentioned above have appeared in consecutive games. Stay tuned; this hierarchy seems far from settled.
  • Dodgers leaning on Banda and Kopech: This does not affect saves, though Anthony Banda secured his first Sunday in Oakland. He’s been scoreless in eight of his last nine outings with 13 strikeouts against three walks and a 0.72 WHIP across 9.2 innings. Working with increased velocity this season and an adjusted pitch mix, he’s entered our hierarchy, which may not affect those in saves-only formats, but he’s moving up in leagues that count holds or SOLDS (saves plus holds). Michael Kopech notched his second hold with his new team and has only allowed one baserunner through three appearances with five strikeouts of ten batters faced. Like the Diamondbacks above, it feels like Dave Roberts hopes Evan Phillips can reclaim his leverage role, and he could get a chance today. However, the Phillies left-handed hitters present a major match-up issue based on his results against them this season.
  • Mixing it up in Minnesota: For the first time since June 26, Jhoan Durán made an appearance in the eighth inning. He matched up with the Cubs’ 8-9-1 lineup pocket and recorded his fifth hold, allowing an Ian Happ double and striking out one. Griffin Jax secured his eighth save, first since June, with a scoreless ninth. This could be a one-game outlier or a shift in philosophy toward using relievers in specific lineup lanes in the late innings. It would not be the first time Rocco Baldelli moved the goal line on fantasy players. Monitor this closely; hopefully, it’s a blip, not a trend.

Vulture Save Options for Tuesday, August 6

  • Andrew Chafin (TEX): Yates threw 25 pitches during a two-inning outing, and Robertson threw 27 in the eighth, which may demand a day off for each reliever. This puts Chafin atop the hierarchy in a pivotal game against Houston.
  • Evan Phillips (LAD): Hudson and Banda have appeared in two straight, and Phillips was warming in the eighth in case he was needed last night. He may get his first save chance since July 23 tonight.
  • Michel Otañez (OAK): Ferguson and Adams pitched in consecutive games after last night’s win.

Vulture Save Options for Wednesday, August 7

  • Tyler Rogers (SFG): If Doval pitches again tonight, it will be back-to-back outings.
  • Tayler Scott (HOU): The Astros used Hader, Pressly, and Abreu during a loss. If they all work again tonight, Scott will be in line for the save on Wednesday.

Full Game Recaps from August 5

Arizona Diamondbacks – With a one-run lead in the bottom of the tenth, Justin Martinez secured his first save, retiring Lane Thomas via lineout, intentionally walking José Ramírez, and producing consecutive strikeouts. He threw 10 pitches (80 Strike%) and generated two whiffs. He’s been scoreless in six of his last seven with 12 strikeouts against five walks.

  • Ryan Thompson suffered his sixth blown save, allowing a one-out triple and a game-tying sacrifice fly. He collected his sixth win courtesy of a rally in the top of the tenth.
  • Entering with a runner on and two outs, A.J. Puk struck out Andrés Giménez for his ninth hold in the bottom of the eighth.
  • Kevin Ginkel notched his 12th hold, giving up a hit and striking out one over two-thirds scoreless in the eighth.

Updated Hierarchy: *A.J. Puk | *Justin Martinez | *Ryan Thompson

*= closer-by-committee

Cleveland Guardians – Taking over a tied game in the top of the tenth, Emmanuel Clase suffered his second loss. He permitted the “place” runner to score on a sacrifice bunt and a sacrifice fly while retiring all three batters on eight pitches. This snapped his eight-game scoreless streak, but he’s converted 20 straight save chances since May 20.

  • Eli Morgan tossed a clean ninth, recording a strikeout.
  • Scott Barlow was tagged with his first blown save, giving up a game-tying Joc Pederson home run, letting an inherited runner score, and putting an earned run on his ledger.
  • Tim Herrin was credited with his 12th hold, retiring two and hitting a batter, resulting in an earned run.
  • Hunter Gaddis tossed two-thirds scoreless, yielding a hit and striking out one for his 24th hold.

Hierarchy remains: Emmanuel Clase | Hunter Gaddis | Scott Barlow

Houston Astros – With a one-run lead in the bottom of the tenth, Caleb Ferguson suffered his fourth loss and second blown save, giving up Josh Smith’s walk-off two-run home run. Ferguson recorded two outs via strikeout and was tagged with two runs (one earned) in his outing.

  • Josh Hader tossed a scoreless top of the ninth, allowing a walk and striking out three. He threw 26 pitches (18 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (19.2 SwStr%).
  • Ryan Pressly gave up a game-tying Corey Seager solo home run, resulting in his seventh blown save.
  • Bryan Abreu retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

Los Angeles Dodgers – Appearing for the third time in four days, Daniel Hudson navigated around a lead-off Nick Castellanos single by retiring the next three batters en route to his eighth save. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. This was his first save since July 22. and he has a three-game scoreless streak.

  • Anthony Banda worked around a hit and a walk with two strikeouts for a scoreless eighth inning and his seventh hold.
  • Michael Kopech gave up a hit and struck out one in a scoreless seventh, securing his third hold. He’s retired nine of 10 batters since joining Los Angeles, five via strikeout. 

Updated Hierarchy: *Daniel Hudson | *Evan Phillips | *Anthony Banda

Minnesota Twins – Preserving a combined shutout, Griffin Jax worked around a one-out Cody Bellinger single with a strikeout and a game-ending groundout for his eighth save. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless through three outings in August with two holds and this save.

  • Jhoan Durán gave up a two-out Ian Happ double and recorded an inning-ending strikeout for his fifth hold. He faced the Cubs’ 8-9-1-2 hitters, throwing 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with three whiffs (20 SwStr%).
  • Jorge Alcala notched his 13th hold with a clean seventh.
  • Caleb Thielbar fired a clean sixth and struck out the side while securing his seventh hold.

Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala

*= closer-by-committee

San Francisco Giants – Shutting the door on his 21st save, Camilo Doval fired a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out the side, preserving a three-run win in Washington. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%). This represents his first clean outing since July 2, and he’s converted his last four save opportunities.

  • Tyler Rogers stranded two runners and retired his only batter in the eight, securing his 23rd hold.
  • Taylor Rogers allowed two hits and struck out two in two-thirds of the eighth for his eighth hold.
  • Ryan Walker notched his 2oth hold, stranded two runners in the sixth, and retired four of five batters (one reached via hit-by-pitch) while striking out two. 

Hierarchy remains: Camilo Doval | Tyler Rogers | Ryan Walker

Texas Rangers – Logging his second two-inning outing this season, Kirby Yates allowed the “place” runner to score after an intentional walk and consecutive one-out hit batters. He collected his fourth win courtesy of a walk-off home run in the bottom of the inning. Yates finished his two innings with an unearned run, a walk, and four strikeouts.

  • David Robertson gave up two hits, an earned run, and two walks (one intentional) with two strikeouts in the top of the eighth.
  • Andrew Chafin stranded two runners while giving up a walk and striking out two over two-thirds scoreless in the seventh.
  • José Leclerc allowed a hit and a walk during one-third of the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Kirby Yates | David Robertson | Andrew Chafin

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Monkey Bytes: August 5

Sunday proved slippery from a fantasy perspective in high-leverage. Seven relievers recorded a win, and there were six saves. However, there were two first saves of the season, Hunter Harvey and Anthony Banda, while Roansy Contreras secured a vulture save for the Angels. Our condensed recaps cover the results of interest from this slate and what to watch for in the upcoming scoring period.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • A.J. Puk (ARI) inherited runners on the corners with one out with a one-run lead. He produced a strikeout against Oneil Cruz and induced a game-ending flyout by Bryan De La Cruz for his second save, first with Arizona. Paul Sewald earned his first win, tossing a scoreless sixth while giving up a hit and striking out one. 
  • Cam Booser (BOS) entered in the bottom of the fifth and stranded a runner. He finished 1.1 clean frames and earned his second win as a result. 
  • Shelby Miller (DET) got into trouble by allowing a lead-off single, a one-out hit, and MJ Melendez’s pinch-hit, go-ahead three-run home run. This resulted in his seventh loss and sixth blown save. Detroit last recorded a save on July 25. 
  • Hunter Harvey (KCR) capped his team’s come-from-behind rally in the top of the ninth and preserved a one-run win for his first save. He gave up a one-out single but induced a game-ending double play groundout. Chris Stratton collected his fourth win, tossing a clean eighth and striking out one. 
  • Roansy Contreras (LAA) filled in and preserved a one-run win over the Mets with a clean top of the ninth, recording two strikeouts and his second save. 
  • Anthony Banda (LAD) secured his first save since 2020, becoming his team’s tenth pitcher with one this season. He retired the side and recorded a strikeout, finishing a one-run win in Oakland. Alex Vesia collected his second win after a clean seventh while striking out two. 
  • Cole Sands (MIN) worked two scoreless frames, allowing two hits and a walk while striking out two en route to his fifth win. He took over in the fifth during an eventual six-run win over the White Sox. 
  • Mark Leiter Jr. (NYY) stranded a runner in the top of the ninth and worked a scoreless tenth despite hitting a batter. He finished 1.1 scoreless frames with three strikeouts and collected his third win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the tenth. 
  • Colin Holderman (PIT) issued two walks and allowed Joc Pederson’s go-ahead three-run home run in the seventh, resulting in his fourth loss and fifth blown save. 
  • Pete Fairbanks (TBR) fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts, preserving a 1-0 win during his 21st save. 
  • Bowden Francis (TOR) took over a tied game in the bottom of the tenth. He recorded an out on a sacrifice bunt, then gave up a walk-off DJ LeMahieu single. 
  • Kyle Finnegan (WSH) worked around a lead-off single with a flyout and a game-ending double play groundout for a scoreless appearance and his 30th save.

Vulture Save Option for Monday, August 5

  • Lucas Erceg (KCR): Harvey appeared for a second straight game yesterday, and with James McArthur still struggling, tonight’s save chance should go to Erceg.

Vulture Save Option for Tuesday, August 6

With 12 teams off on Monday, it will be tough sledding early in the week for those chasing vulture saves, especially when teams reset their workloads with only ten teams playing last Thursday.

What to Watch For (August 5 – 11)

  • Arizona: While Paul Sewald works his way back into the closer role, will the team keep using Ryan Thompson in the ninth despite allowing runs in his last two appearances or can A.J. Puk gain a save share in this scoring period?
  • Baltimore: Is Craig Kimbrel still on a “break” from save chances, or will he receive an opportunity in the coming days? Fantasy managers should monitor his velocity, above or below 94 m.p.h. and his performances in his next few outings.
  • Detroit: This leverage ladder has had a rough stretch, and arguably, the best reliever, Tyler Holton, has operated as an opener in his last three appearances. Can someone step up in the second half?
  • Kansas City: A significant scoring period looms for James McArthur. Has he been demoted from the closer role? Will Hunter Harvey and Lucas Erceg share save situations, or can one take over the ninth inning?
  • LA Angels: Ben Joyce recorded his first major league save. Will the team take the training wheels off as the season progresses?
  • LA Dodgers: Ten relievers have notched a save since yesterday, and there have been no set usage patterns, causing frustration in the fantasy community. Is Dave Roberts waiting for Evan Phillips to regain his former role atop the hierarchy, and will the rest fall into place?
  • Miami: Does Calvin Faucher cement his spot in the ninth, or will the team use a match-up-based approach in the late innings?
  • Milwaukee: Will Devin Williams work on consecutive days this season?
  • Oakland: Mason Miller has been throwing. His cast was removed, and he’s eligible to return on August 7, which presents a tough decision for those in weekly formats.
  • Philadelphia: Recent usage patterns point toward Carlos Estévez being the primary save share with the Phillies, will this scoring period reinforce this premise with a save chance or two?

American League – August 4, Full Recaps

Detroit Tigers – Entering with a two-run lead, Shelby Miller allowed a lead-off Hunter Renfroe single, induced a pop-out, gave up a Freddy Fermin single, and recorded a second out. However, with two outs, Miller served up a pinch-hit MJ Melendez three-run home run, resulting in his seventh loss and sixth blown save. He’s allowed multiple runs in his last two games and may have pitched himself out of future save opportunities.

  • Jason Foley took over, retiring Bobby Witt Jr. on a lineout, but the damage had been done.
  • Will Vest tossed a scoreless eighth, allowing a hit and striking out one for his sixth hold.
  • Brant Hurter secured a hold in his MLB debut, logging three scoreless frames, scattering two hits, and striking out three.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Kansas City Royals – Capping a comeback rally at the top of the ninth, Hunter Harvey tossed a scoreless bottom of the inning, giving up a one-out single and producing a game-ending double play groundout for his first save. He threw nine pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. This snapped his two-game streak, allowing at least a run, and reinforces his status in the leverage ladder.

  • Chris Stratton collected his fourth win, retiring the side and striking out one in the bottom of the eighth ahead of his team’s three-run rally.
  • Will Smith worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: *Hunter Harvey | *Lucas Erceg | *James McArthur

Los Angeles Angels – Filling in capably in the ninth, Roansy Contreras secured his second save while retiring the side and striking out two during a one-run win over the Mets. He threw 11 pitches (90.9 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in seven of his last eight with two ancillary saves and a 13:2 K:BB over 10.1 innings.

  • Mike Baumann notched his sixth hold with a scoreless eighth, allowing a hit and striking out one.
  • José Marte tossed two scoreless innings, yielding a hit. 

Updated Hierarchy: Ben Joyce | Hunter Strickland | Roansy Contreras

*= closer-by-committee

New York Yankees – After an extended rain delay, Mark Leiter Jr. stranded a runner in the ninth and retired four of five batters, three via strikeout against Toronto. He collected his third win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the tenth. He threw 22 pitches (14 strikes – 63.6 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (27.3 SwStr%).

  • Enyel De Los Santos gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout over two-thirds of the ninth.
  • Clay Holmes gets tagged with his ninth blown save. He inherited a bases-loaded situation with one out in the eighth, allowing an Alejandro Kirk sacrifice fly, and recorded an inning-ending strikeout.
  • Tommy Kahnle was credited with his eighth hold, giving up an unearned run and two walks over one-third of the eighth.
  • Luke Weaver logged 1.1 scoreless frames and walked one in his outing.

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

Tampa Bay Rays – Preserving a combined shutout, Pete Fairbanks shut the door on his 21st save with a clean ninth and two strikeouts. He threw 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (54.5 SwStr%). He’s converted 11 straight saves and been scoreless in his last five appearances.

  • Manuel Rodríguez notched his sixth hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the eighth.
  • Edwin Uceta logged two clean frames and recorded two strikeouts for his third hold.
  • Tyler Alexander collected his fifth win. He pitched 4.1 scoreless innings, giving up two hits and a walk while striking out five.

Updated Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Colin Poche | Manuel Rodríguez

National League – August 4, Full Recaps

Arizona Diamondbacks – Pressed into action with two runners on and one out in the ninth, A.J. Puk struck out Oneil Cruz and induced a game-ending flyout by Bryan De La Cruz for his second save, first with the Diamondbacks. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) without a whiff.

  • Ryan Thompson was credited with his 20th hold despite giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk before being removed.
  • Dylan Floro retired the side and recorded a strikeout for his tenth hold in the eighth.
  • Justin Martinez notched his eighth hold, allowing a hit and striking out three in a scoreless seventh.
  • Paul Sewald tossed a scoreless sixth and collected his first win. He gave up a hit and struck out one.

Updated Hierarchy: *Ryan Thompson | *A.J. Puk | Justin Martinez

*= closer-by-committee

Los Angeles Dodgers – Recording his team’s tenth save, and his first since 2020, Anthony Banda retired the side and struck out one while preserving a one-run win in Oakland.

  • Daniel Hudson notched his 15th hold, tossing a clean eighth and striking out one against the 3-4-5 lineup pocket.
  • Alex Vesia collected his second win, firing a clean seventh and striking out two.
  • Blake Treinen worked a scoreless sixth, allowing a hit and striking out one for his ninth hold.
  • Evan Phillips stranded the bases loaded with an inning-ending strikeout of his only batter faced in the fifth.

Updated Hierarchy: *Daniel Hudson | *Blake Treinen | *Evan Phillips

*= closer-by-committee

Washington Nationals – Summoned with a one-run lead, Kyle Finnegan reached 30 saves for the first time in his career. He navigated around a lead-off single with a flyout and a game-ending double play groundout, throwing 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) with one whiff. This marks the seventh time a Nationals reliever has recorded 30 saves, the first since Rafael Soriano (32 in 2014).

  • Jacob Barnes retired his only batter in the eighth via strikeout for his first hold.
  • Robert Garcia gave up three hits, including a two-run Gary Sánchez home run and three earned runs over two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Derek Law tossed a clean seventh, striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Kyle Finnegan | Robert Garcia | Derek Law

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Monkey Bytes: August 4

Saturday’s full slate produced eight reliever wins and 10 saves, including the first of Ben Joyce‘s career. It also provided potential hierarchy changes in Baltimore and Kansas City. There were two extra-inning contests, both won by the home team (Detroit and Seattle). Our condensed recaps cover the high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Pierce Johnson (ATL) took over a tied game in the seventh. He gave up two hits, including the go-ahead Jesús Sánchez RBI double, resulting in his third loss. 
  • Yennier Cano (BAL) secured his fifth save with a clean bottom of the ninth and one strikeout against Cleveland. 
  • Héctor Neris (CHC) allowed a lead-off Tommy Pham triple and a go-ahead sacrifice fly, resulting in his fourth loss. 
  • Alexis Díaz (CIN) gave up a solo home run and finished a two-run win for his 22nd save. 
  • Peter Lambert (COL) allowed three hits and two earned runs in San Diego, resulting in his fifth loss. 
  • Jason Foley (DET) let the “place” runner score in the 10th and 11th innings but collected his third win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the 11th. 
  • James McArthur (KCR) was tagged with his fifth loss and sixth blown save. In the bottom of the 11th, he allowed a lead-off triple, issued an intentional walk, induced a double play grounder, and gave up a walk-off Wenceel Pérez RBI single. It should be noted he was passed over for the save chance in the ninth. 
  • Ben Joyce (LAA) took over with a runner on third and two outs in the eighth. He stranded the runner and preserved the one-run win while retiring all four batters, including a game-ending strikeout of J.D. Martinez on a 104.7 m.p.h. fastball for his first career save.
  • Calvin Faucher (MIA) rebounded from Friday’s loss with his first save, preserving a one-run win in Atlanta. He worked around a one-out hit and recorded two strikeouts. This represents his second career save. 
  • Jhoan Durán (MIN) tossed a clean top of the ninth, finishing a four-run win over the White Sox. 
  • Huascar Brazobán (NYM) entered with a two-run lead in the seventh and suffered his third loss and fourth blown save. With two outs, he allowed a hit, issued a walk, and gave up Zach Neto’s go-ahead three-run home run.
  • Clay Holmes (NYY) recorded a fantasy manager’s favorite, a one-out save. Summoned with the bases loaded and two outs, he produced a game-ending George Springer strikeout for his 23rd save. 
  • Carlos Estévez (PHI) worked a clean bottom of the ninth but suffered his fourth loss on a walk-off walk in the tenth. He opened the tenth with an intentional walk (Cal Raleigh), recorded two outs, hit a batter, and forced in the winning run on a Mitch Haniger walk. This represents the first time he has allowed multiple walks in 37 appearances this year.
  • David Bednar (PIT) held on for his 20th save. He allowed two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two during a two-run win over the Diamondbacks. 
  • Robert Suarez (SDP) shut the door on his 24th save with a clean ninth and one strikeout while preserving a one-run win over Colorado. 
  • Collin Snider (SEA) collected his second win. He recorded a scoreless top of the tenth, allowing a walk and striking out two, then benefited from his team’s walk-off rally.
  • Ryan Helsley (STL) secured his MLB-leading 34th save with a clean bottom of the ninth, capping his team’s late-innings rally. 
  • Pete Fairbanks (TBR) retired the side during a five-run win in Houston. 
  • Kirby Yates (TEX) stranded two runners in the eighth and worked a scoreless ninth for his 20th save. He finished 1.1 scoreless innings, giving up two hits and striking out two. 
  • Kyle Finnegan (WSH) set a career-high with his 29th save. He navigated around two hits for a scoreless ninth and recorded a strikeout during a two-run win against the Brewers.

Three Takeaways

  • Is Cano taking over?: With Craig Kimbrel logging lower leverage outings, Yennier Cano may be staking his claim on the preferred save share despite past struggles in the ninth inning. He closed out a win in Cleveland and has tweaked his arsenal, throwing more four-seam fastballs since June. Over his last 17.2 innings, he’s recorded 21 strikeouts against five walks (18.6 K-BB percentage) with a 1.13 WHIP and 2.81 SIERA.
  • Royals unrest in the bullpen hierarchy: Hunter Harvey and James McArthur suffered blown saves during an extra-inning loss in Detroit. More importantly, after Lucas Erceg worked a clean eighth inning, McArthur was passed over in the ninth for Harvey. But should Erceg be the most trusted option? Using the start of July as our starting point, Erceg has appeared in 12 games, spanning 10 innings with a loss, a save, five holds, a 10:2 K:BB (20 K-BB percentage), a 0.90 WHIP, and a 2.98 SIERA. Harvey has a loss, two blown saves, five holds, a 9:4 K:BB (9.6 K-BB percentage), 1.90 WHIP, and a 4.48 SIERA his last 10 innings, allowing at least a run in consecutive outings and in three of five with the Royals. McArthur has made 10 appearances since the start of July, posting two losses and four saves in six opportunities. He’s yielded a run in five games and multiple runs in three with a 1.84 WHIP, 6.1 K-BB percentage, and a 4.84 SIERA.
  • Is Faucher settling in?: Despite suffering a blown save on Friday, Miami used Calvin Faucher in the ninth on Saturday, and he responded with his first save of the season and the second of his career. Our hierarchy still shows Andrew Nardi as a save share. He faced the Matt Olson lineup lane in the eighth, but roles may have been reversed if it were the ninth.

Vulture Save Options for Sunday, August 4

  • George Soriano (MIA): His team’s hierarchy have all appeared in two straight games, leaving options thin for a potential save chance in Atlanta.
  • Nate Pearson (CHC): Neris has pitched in back-to-back games, and Hodge’s blown save yesterday may provide the newly acquired reliever a save chance this afternoon.

Vulture Save Options for Monday, August 5

  • Fernando Cruz (CIN): If Díaz works again today, it will be consecutive appearances.
  • Andrew Kittredge (STL): If Helsley pitches this afternoon, it will be back-to-back outings and three in the last four.

American League – August 3 Game Recaps

Baltimore Orioles – Taking over with a three-run lead, Yennier Cano locked down his fifth save with a clean ninth and one strikeout. He made an athletic play on Andrés Giménez’s groundout leading off the inning and threw eight pitches (62.5 Strike%) with one whiff. He’s recorded a save in two of his last three outings and been scoreless in eight of his previous nine.

  • Seranthony Domínguez let an inherited runner score on a José Ramírez home run in the eighth. Domínguez finished with a hit and an earned run while striking out one during his combined inning of relief.
  • Cionel Pérez was credited his 14th hold, allowing an earned run on a walk and striking out two over two-thirds innings.

Adjusted Hierarchy: Yennier Cano | Seranthony Domínguez | Craig Kimbrel

Detroit Tigers – Benefiting from a walk-off, Jason Foley collected his third win. He allowed both “place” runners to score in the 10th and 11th innings, allowing a hit and striking out one. He threw 23 pitches (16 strikes – 69.6 Strike%) and induced two whiffs.

  • Bryan Sammons logged 1.1 clean frames and stranded two runners in the eighth.
  • Will Vest gave up two hits in a combined, scoreless inning.
  • Kenta Maeda worked 3.2 innings, giving up six hits, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out four.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Kansas City Royals – With a one-run lead in the bottom of the 11th, James McArthur suffered his fifth loss and sixth blown save. He gave up a game-tying Parker Meadows triple, intentionally walked Javier Báez, induced a double play groundout, and then allowed a walk-off Wenceel Pérez single. Although he recorded a save on July 29, he was passed over in this contest, and another blown save signals a reduced leverage role.

  • Kris Bubic was tagged with his first blown save, giving up a hit, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out one in the tenth.
  • Hunter Harvey received the save chance with a two-run lead in the eighth but served up a lead-off home run, a double, and a game-tying RBI double by Báez, resulting in his third blown save.
  • Lucas Erceg retired the side and recorded a strikeout for his 15th hold.

Updated Hierarchy: *Hunter Harvey | *Lucas Erceg | *James McArthur

*= closer-by-committee

Los Angeles Angels – On August 3, Ben Joyce recorded his first career save. He took over with a runner on third and two outs in the eighth, stranding him on a groundout. Facing the top of the Mets’ lineup in the ninth, he retired the side, including a game-ending strikeout of J.D. Martinez at 104.7 m.p.h. with his four-seam fastball. Joyce threw 15 pitches (13 strikes – 86.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%). This extended his scoreless streak to 18 games, spanning 22.2 innings with 20 strikeouts versus 10 walks.

  • Matt Moore collected his fifth win, recording two outs and allowing a hit over two-thirds scoreless in the eighth.
  • Hunter Strickland suffered his third blown save. He gave up a go-ahead grand slam by Martinez, scoring two inherited runners and putting two earned on his ledger.

Updated Hierarchy: Ben Joyce | Hunter Strickland | Hans Crouse

New York Yankees – Summoned with the bases-loaded and two outs, Clay Holmes recorded a game-ending strikeout by George Springer for his 23rd save, throwing four pitches (75 Strike%) with three whiffs.

  • Mark Leiter Jr. allowed three hits during two-thirds of the ninth before being removed.
  • Tommy Kahnle tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and striking out one.
  • Luke Weaver notched his 17th hold with a scoreless seventh. He issued a walk and struck out two. 

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

Seattle Mariners – Entering at the top of the tenth, Collin Snider collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He issued a walk and recorded two strikeouts, keeping the game tied versus the Phillies.

  • Andrés Muñoz tossed a scoreless ninth, allowing a walk and striking out two on 20 pitches (60 Strike%) with two whiffs while facing the top of the lineup.
  • Austin Voth retired the side and struck out two in the eighth.
  • Yimi García navigated around two walks and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless seventh.
  • JT Chargois logged 1.1 clean frames, striking out one.

Updated Hierarchy: Andrés Muñoz | Yimi García | Austin Voth

Texas Rangers – Pressed into action with two runners on and two outs in the top of the eighth, Kirby Yates allowed a hit but no runs with an inning-ending strikeout of Jarren Duran. Yates returned for the ninth, working around a lead-off infield single by retiring the next three batters, securing his 20th save. He finished with two hits and two strikeouts over 1.1 scoreless frames on 32 pitches (20 strikes – 62.5 Strike%) with five whiffs (15.6 SwStr%).

  • David Robertson allowed two hits and struck out two during 1.1 scoreless frames for his 23rd hold.
  • Josh Sborz gave up two hits and an earned run while striking out one over a combined inning for his eighth hold.
  • Andrew Chafin retired all three batters and stranded two runners for his ninth hold.
  • José Leclerc was awarded his fifth win. He tossed two-thirds scoreless, yielding a hit and two walks while striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Kirby Yates | David Robertson | Andrew Chafin

National League – August 3 Game Recaps

Chicago Cubs – Taking over a tied game in the top of the ninth, Héctor Neris allowed a Tommy Pham lead-off triple and a Lars Nootbar sacrifice fly, resulting in his fourth loss.

  • Porter Hodge was tagged with his second blown save. It started with a one-out walk and a hit-by-pitch. With two outs, an infield single was aided by a throwing error, scoring a run. Nolan Arenado followed with a blooped single between three fielders, plating the tying runs. Hodge finished with two hits, three runs (two earned), and a walk while striking out one in the eighth.
  • Drew Smyly secured his fourth hold with a clean seventh, striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Héctor Neris | Porter Hodge | Tyson Miller

Cincinnati Reds – Although he allowed a Matt Chapman solo home run in the top of the ninth, Alexis Díaz posted his 22nd save during his team’s two-run win. He threw 13 pitches (11 strikes – 84.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted three straight saves in his last three appearances.

Hierarchy remains: Alexis Díaz | Fernando Cruz | Sam Moll

Miami Marlins – One day removed from suffering his first blown save, Calvin Faucher secured his first save of 2024 and second of his career, preserving a one-run win in Atlanta. He worked around a one-out Jarred Kelenic single with consecutive strikeouts. Faucher threw 18 pitches (13 strikes – 72.2 Strike%) and induced two whiffs.

  • Andrew Nardi fired a clean eighth, recording two strikeouts versus the 4-5-6 lineup pocket on 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and produced two whiffs.
  • Anthony Bender retired the side in the seventh for his 11th hold.
  • Declan Cronin collected his third win. He logged two scoreless innings, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: *Calvin Faucher | *Andrew Nardi | Anthony Bender

Philadelphia Phillies – In an extended outing, Carlos Estévez retired the side in the ninth, keeping the game tied, but he suffered his fourth loss on a walk-off walk in the bottom of the tenth. During the tenth, he issued Cal Raleigh an intentional walk and induced a flyout and a strikeout. But with two outs, he hit a batter and walked Mitch Haniger, forcing in the game-winning run. Estévez threw 28 pitches (16 strikes—57.1 Strike%).

  • José Alvarado worked a scoreless eighth, allowing a hit and striking out one.
  • Matt Strahm fired a clean seventh, striking out the side.
  • Jeff Hoffman gave up four hits, four earned runs, and a walk while striking out two in the sixth, resulting in his fourth blown save.

Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Jeff Hoffman | José Alvarado

Pittsburgh Pirates – Hanging on for his 20th save, David Bednar allowed an earned run in the top of the ninth but induced a game-ending flyout with runners on the corners, preserving a two-run win. After recording consecutive strikeouts, he allowed a double, walked Corbin Carroll, and gave up Ketel Marte’s RBI single. He threw 23 pitches (14 strikes – 60.9 Strike%) and produced four whiffs. This marked his second straight save, giving up multiple hits and a run.

  • Aroldis Chapman recorded his 16th hold with a clean eighth, striking out the side.
  • Kyle Nicolas collected his second win, allowing a hit and striking out one over two scoreless frames.

Updated Hierarchy: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Kyle Nicolas

San Diego Padres – Shutting the door on his 24th save, Robert Suarez preserved a one-run with a clean ninth and recorded one strikeout. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). This extended his scoreless streak to seven games, during which he’s posted ten strikeouts against one walk.

  • Tanner Scott gave up a Jacob Stallings solo home run and struck out two for his second hold.
  • Jason Adam collected his fifth win, tossing a scoreless seventh. He allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout.

Hierarchy remains: Robert Suarez | Tanner Scott | Jason Adam

Washington Nationals – Despite letting both inherited runners score in the top of the eighth on a Gary Sánchez single, Kyle Finnegan retired four of five hitters for his career-high, 29th save. He threw 18 pitches (13 strikes – 72.2 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He had allowed at least a run his two previous appearances and though scoreless in this outing, has given up eight by his last 15 batters faced.

Hierarchy remains: Kyle Finnegan | Robert Garcia | Derek Law

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Monkey Bytes: August 3

Friday night’s slate featured some confusing usage patterns, fueling more questions than answers in the remaining unsettled bullpen hierarchies following the trade deadline. Six relievers recorded a win, and there were six saves, including yesterday’s vulture recommendation, Joe Jiménez. Our Closer CliffsNotes recaps the high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Ryan Thompson (ARI) held on for his second save. He allowed a lead-off Oneil Cruz single, a stolen base, and a one-out Rowdy Tellez RBI single before inducing consecutive groundouts, preserving a one-run win. After tossing a clean seventh, Dylan Floro was awarded his fourth win, the first with his new team. 
  • Joe Jiménez (ATL) navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out three in a scoreless ninth for his third save. Aaron Bummer collected his third win, working a scoreless top of the eighth, yielding a hit and striking out two. 
  • Héctor Neris (CHC) took over a bases-loaded situation in the eighth and let one runner score on a walk but logged 1.1 scoreless frames and recorded two strikeouts en route to his 15th save. Tyson Miller logged 1.2 clean frames and struck out one while collecting his third win. 
  • Cade Smith (CLE) collected his sixth win. He logged 1.2 clean frames and struck out three against Baltimore. 
  • Victor Vodnik (COL) secured his fifth save while appearing for a third straight day. He issued a walk and recorded a strikeout during his scoreless ninth in San Diego. 
  • Shelby Miller (DET) struggled in a non-save appearance. He took over in the seventh and let both inherited runners score, along with four earned runs on his ledger, yielding four hits without recording an out. 
  • Josh Hader (HOU) notched his 22nd save with a scoreless ninth despite issuing a walk during a one-run win over the Rays. Bryan Abreu retired the side in the seventh while striking out two and earned his second win courtesy of his teammates taking the lead in the bottom of the inning. 
  • Calvin Faucher (MIA) suffered his third loss. Entering in the bottom of the eighth with a one-run lead, he allowed three earned runs on three hits and two walks (one intentional) while striking out one. 
  • Colin Holderman (PIT) took over a tied game in the top of the eighth. He gave up two hits and the go-ahead run on a double by Geraldo Perdomo, resulting in his third loss. 
  • Jeremiah Estrada (SDP) had a rare rough outing. He allowed three hits, three earned runs, and two walks while striking out two in two-thirds of the sixth, resulting in his second loss and second blown save. 
  • Kevin Kelly (TBR) was tagged with his second loss. He gave up an unearned run and two hits over 1.1 innings in Houston. 
  • Chad Green (TOR) nailed down his eighth save, striking out the side against the Yankees top of the lineup. Brendon Little tossed 1.2 scoreless innings, allowing a hit and striking out two for his first major league win.

Three Takeaways

  • Arizona’s revamped hierarchy: With a three-run lead at the bottom of the sixth, Kevin Ginkel was summoned but struggled with his command. He was removed with two runners on and two outs. A.J. Puk was deployed like the “fireman” but gave up three consecutive hits, scoring both inherited runners and getting an earned run on his line. Dylan Floro tossed a clean seventh. Justin Martinez was the most impressive reliever in this game, even with his inconsistent sequence against Andrew McCutchen. Ryan Thompson secured his second save despite allowing two hits and an earned run in the ninth. A match-up-based approach may continue while Paul Sewald works on his mechanical issues, making this a challenging read. Fantasy managers can add Thompson, but things are different in the ninth than in the eighth inning.
  • Miami loses a late lead: After Anthony Bender retired the first three Atlanta hitters in the sixth for his tenth hold, Andrew Nardi tossed a scoreless seventh facing the 4-5-6-7 hitters. Calvin Faucher took over in the eighth, allowing three earned runs on three hits and two walks, resulting in his first blown save and third loss. Who would have received the ninth remains a mystery, but our projected high-leverage triumvirate remains these three. However, the roles may change in the coming weeks, making this another problematic situation for those seeking one reliever for saves.
  • V-squared effective again: For a third straight game, and in Colorado’s fifth straight win, Victor Vodnik turned in a scoreless outing. Last night, he secured his fifth save by working around a one-out walk with a pop-out and a game-ending strikeout of Jackson Merrill. His team has one of the most demanding remaining schedules, but he’s established himself as the closer, which has value for fantasy purposes. He can be an effective short-term option in the next scoring period with so many bullpens in flux.

Vulture Save Option for Saturday, August 3

  • Seranthony Domínguez (BAL): This may be off the radar, but Kimbrel pitched in a non-save outing during a four-run loss, and Yennier Cano’s 5.34 ERA in the ninth may provide this vulture save opportunity in today’s slate.

Vulture Save Option for Sunday, August 4

  • Porter Hodge (CHC): If Neris pitches today, it will be back-to-back outings.

American League – Game Recaps from August 2

Houston Astros – Although he dealt with traffic, Josh Hader recorded his 22nd save with a scoreless ninth, preserving a one-run win over the Rays. With one out, he hit José Caballero with a pitch and picked him off first, resulting in a caught stealing, walked Alex Jackson and induced a game-ending flyout. Hader threw 16 pitches (7 strikes – 43.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in eight of his last nine outings while converting all seven save chances with 12 strikeouts against five walks.

  • Ryan Pressly notched his 19th hold, navigating around two hits and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
  • Bryan Abreu collected his second win. He retired the side and recorded two strikeouts in the seventh, followed by his team’s go-ahead rally in the bottom of the inning.

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

Toronto Blue Jays – Shutting the door on his eighth save, Chad Green fired a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out the side against the Yankees’ 1-2-3 hitters. He threw 16 pitches (9 strikes – 56.3 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He extended his scoreless streak to seven games, recording a win, three saves, and a hole while striking out eight without issuing a walk.

  • Zach Pop tossed a scoreless eighth and struck out one for his eighth hold.
  • Brendon Little collected his first win. He logged 1.2 scoreless frames, allowing a hit and striking out two.
  • Génesis Cabrera stranded two runners in the fifth. He gave up a hit and a walk while striking out one over two-thirds of an inning.

Hierarchy remains: Chad Green | Zach Pop | Génesis Cabrera

National League – Game Recaps from August 2

Arizona Diamondbacks – In the first game, with Paul Sewald out of the closer role, Ryan Thompson held on for his second save. He allowed two hits, including Rowdy Tellez’s RBI single, while preserving a one-run win in Pittsburgh. He threw 20 pitches (60 Strike%) without inducing a whiff. In this outing, he lost his seven-game scoreless streak but may get a brief run for saves.

  • Justin Martinez tossed a scoreless eighth, issuing a walk and striking out three for his seventh hold.
  • Dylan Floro worked a clean seventh and collected his fourth win.
  • A.J. Puk was summoned with two runners on and one out and gave up three consecutive hits, putting an earned run on his line while letting both inherited runners score during his second blown save.
  • Kevin Ginkel was credited with his 11th hold despite giving up a hit, three earned runs, a walk, and a hit batter while striking out one in two-thirds of the sixth.

Updated Hierarchy: *Ryan Thompson | *Justin Martinez | *A.J. Puk

*= closer-by-committee

Atlanta Braves – Capping his team’s comeback rally, Joe Jiménez secured his third save. He worked around a one-out single and a two-out double by recording all three outs via strikeout while preserving a two-run win over the Marlins. He threw 28 pitches (17 strikes – 60.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (14.3 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in his last eight appearances and 17 of his last 18 with 19 strikeouts against seven walks.

  • Aaron Bummer collected his third win. He tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and striking out two ahead of his team’s three-run rally in the bottom of the inning.

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

Chicago Cubs – Forced into action in the top of the eighth, Héctor Neris inherited a bases-loaded, two-out situation. He let one score on a Brendon Donovan walk and produced an inning-ending strikeout of Brandon Crawford. Neris returned for the ninth and retired the side for his 15th save. He threw 17 pitches (10 strikes – 58.8 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (17.7 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in 12 of his last 13 outings since June 22, with 17 strikeouts against five walks while converting all five save chances across 12 innings.

  • Julian Merryweather struggled with his command, issuing four walks and throwing a wild pitch, resulting in two earned runs and recording two strikeouts in two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Drew Smyly worked 1.1 scoreless frames, allowing a walk.
  • Tyson Miller earned his third win. After taking over in the fifth, he pitched 1.2 clean innings and recorded a strikeout.

Updated Hierarchy: Héctor Neris | Porter Hodge | Tyson Miller

Colorado Rockies – Pitching for a third consecutive day, Victor Vodnik secured his fifth save with a scoreless ninth. He allowed a one-out walk by Jake Cronenworth but retired the next two batters, preserving a three-run win in San Diego. He threw 23 pitches (15 strikes – 65.2 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (13 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in seven of his last eight contests, recording a win and four saves with nine strikeouts against three walks.

  • Tyler Kinley also logged a third straight appearance, securing his ninth hold with a clean eighth inning.

Hierarchy remains: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence

Miami Marlins – With a one-run lead in the bottom of the eighth, Calvin Faucher issued a lead-off walk, recorded an out on a sacrifice bunt, and gave up a game-tying Jorge Soler single. After a pinch runner entered, Faucher allowed an Austin Riley double, a Marcell Ozuna sacrifice fly and intentionally walked Matt Olson before an Orlando Arcia RBI single. He suffered his third loss and first blown save while giving up three hits, three earned runs, and two walks while striking out one.

  • Andrew Nardi notched his 13th hold, issuing a walk and striking out three in a scoreless seventh.
  • Anthony Bender secured his tenth hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the sixth.

Updated Hierarchy: *Calvin Faucher | *Andrew Nardi | Anthony Bender

Pittsburgh Pirates – In ascending order of appearances, Jalen Beeks let his only inherited runner score in the top of the sixth, allowing an Alek Thomas RBI single and recording two outs, one via strikeout.

  • Aroldis Chapman suffered his fourth blown save, giving up a Josh Bell solo home run and striking out two in the seventh.
  • Colin Holdmerman gave up two hits and an earned run in the eighth, resulting in his third loss.
  • Dennis Santana served up a Ketel Marte solo home run, issued a walk, and recorded a strikeout in the ninth.

Hierarchy remains: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Colin Holderman

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