Projected Closers by Team for 2025

Noting many of these situations may change based on end-of-season injury reports and off-season moves, our too-early attempt at identifying the closers for 2025 is ready before the last full slate of games on Sunday, September 29. Thanks for being a part of this season at Closer Monkey. Enjoy and be well. If we have helped this season, please leave a TIP for next season’s expenses.

American League

American League East

Baltimore Orioles – “The Mountain” will return as the closer next year. Félix Bautista recorded 33 saves with 110 strikeouts against 26 walks (35.4 K-BB%) in 2023 before undergoing Tommy John surgery. He’s been throwing live bullpen sessions and will anchor this bullpen in 2025. His stock will rise appreciably with a strong spring, but fantasy managers will focus on his command. 

Boston Red Sox – Forecasting the Red Sox closer comes with apprehension. Although the team signed Liam Hendriks for the role in 2025, he suffered a setback with “forearm soreness”, preventing his return this season. Can he remain healthy throughout next year? Will he be effective? Those in keeper leagues should stash Justin Slaten. He flourished as a Rule 5 pick with a 1.01 WHIP and 22.3 K-BB percentage as a rookie. A wild card in this mix could be Garrett Whitlock. His splits by role: 

  • Whitlock as a SP: 109 IP, 102:23 K:BB (17.4 K-BB%), .328 weighted on-base average, 1.27 WHIP
  • Whitlock as an RP: 132.2 IP, 150:29 K:BB (22.7 K-BB%), .273 weighted on-base average, 1.05 WHIP

As of today, pedigree propels Hendriks atop the hierarchy, but his hold will be tenuous unless he’s terrific at Spring Training. 

New York Yankees – Playoff games may determine how the team handles the closer position in 2025, but Clay Holmes will be an unrestricted free agent at season’s end. Luke Weaver has emerged as the preferred save option with an adapted arsenal. He’s one of five relievers with at least 100 strikeouts this season. He’s also converted all four save chances with six wins and 22 holds through 61 appearances. Barring a free agent splurge, he lines up as the Opening Day closer. 

Tampa Bay Rays – Despite losing Pete Fairbanks, the Rays bullpen flourished in the second half. When he’s healthy, he remains the closer. He’s recorded 48 saves over the last two seasons but produced a reduced K-BB percentage and swinging strike rate in 2024. Health remains his hurdle. He begins 2025 as the closer, but change may be afoot as the season ensues. Dynasty league players should monitor Edwin Uceta and Hunter Bigge closely. 

Toronto Blue Jays – Jordan Romano underwent elbow surgery, cutting his 2024 short. He remains the team’s closer, but health will be an issue like others on this list. He could be a terrific “buy low” or a “bust,” with health being the deciding factor. Chad Green remains under contract and will fill in if injury issues resurface. 

American League Central

Chicago White Sox – After enduring the most losses in MLB history, prognosticating a closer for a team in this steep of a rebuild remains difficult. Justin Anderson ended the season as the highest-leveraged reliever. However, since wins may be difficult again, getting a veteran reliever with “closer” experience would benefit the rebuild. Probably, the saves leader is not on the current roster. Keeper league players hope Prelander Berroa or Jordan Leasure improve in 2025. 

Cleveland Guardians – Since the start of 2022, no reliever has recorded more saves than Emmanuel Clase. He’s secured 40-plus saves in the last three years with a 0.84 WHIP over 221.2 innings. Although he’s on a team-friendly deal, it escalates in 2025 and reaches ten million in 2027. For a franchise that prefers keeping payroll down, he could be moved when his stock’s at its peak. Stay tuned. Dynasty league players will track Andrew Walters closely. 

Detroit Tigers – A.J. Hinch mixed and matched with aplomb while getting his team into the playoffs. Jason Foley led the team with 28 saves through 161 games. Tyler Holton recorded seven wins, eight saves, and 14 holds through 66 appearances. How far the team goes and how the bullpen performs may determine how it’s structured in 2025. For now, plan on much of the same next year unless the team targets a free agent closer for the preferred save share. 

Kansas City Royals – Although most believed Hunter Harvey would usurp the closer role from James McArthur, Lucas Erceg emerged since his acquisition. In his 23 games with the Royals, he’s converted 11 of his 13 save opportunities with 31 strikeouts against three walks across 25 innings. Despite the meltdown that injured Vinnie Pasquantino, Erceg’s been almost lights out. He should enter 2025 as the closer. 

Minnesota Twins – What felt like a slam dunk has become murky. Jhoan Durán took a step back, though it’s possible his oblique injury affected his performance throughout the season. It feels like he should get a mulligan for 2024, but his spring performance should be tracked closely. Griffin Jax emerged as a trusted high-leverage option, but the team has spoken about him potentially being used as a starter. Stay tuned. 

American League West

Houston Astros – With Josh Hader signed on a long-term deal, it’s no surprise he’s the projected closer for 2025. Ryan Pressly can opt out of his contract, which may put him in play for another team’s ninth-inning duties. 

Los Angeles Angels – Good news will come in two parts next year: an emerging Ben Joyce and the return of Robert Stephenson. Joyce introduced a “splinker” into his arsenal on June 16 and produced 25 scoreless appearances in his last 27 games with 33 strikeouts against 11 walks across 31 innings. His velocity and experience at the end of the season should ensure his role as the closer in 2025. 

Oakland A’s – Many did not believe Mason Miller would be used as the closer this season. All he did was set the franchise record for saves by a rookie with 28, including throwing the last pitch at Oakland Coliseum. Reports indicate he will remain in this role moving forward, which makes him a terrific target for 2025. He’s recorded 104 strikeouts with a 0.88 WHIP through 65 innings across 55 appearances. 

Seattle Mariners – Forced into the closer role because of injuries throughout the leverage ladder, Andrés Muñoz converted 22 of 27 save chances with a 0.96 WHIP through 57.1 innings. He pitched through lingering back tightness and elbow soreness at the end of the season. Returns by Matt Brash and Gregory Santos will be pivotal for the team’s progress, but Muñoz remains atop the hierarchy, barring injury, on Opening Day next year. 

Texas Rangers – Despite hitting the jackpot on its one-year deal with Kirby Yates, he and José Leclerc will be unrestricted free agents at the end of the season. David Robertson can also opt out of his player option. This means turnover may affect the entire bullpen hierarchy, though a team which sees itself as a World Series contender next year will be aggressive in rebuilding the leverage ladder. Yates went 7-2 while converting 33 of 34 save chances for the Rangers and may return on a deal beneficial for both sides. Those in keeper leagues will monitor how Marc Church develops as a high-leverage option. 

National League

National League East

Atlanta Braves – Since his debut with Atlanta on August 5, 2022, Raisel Iglesias has logged 150 appearances, posting a 1.86 ERA (second lowest in this timeframe) with 11 wins, 67 saves, and a 0.907 WHIP. He will be entering the final year of his contract in 2025, which means change may be coming at the closer position in 2026, but for next year, he remains a reliable target for saves. 

Miami Marlins – After the team traded Tanner Scott, Calvin Faucher received the majority share of saves until he was sidelined with an injury. Jesús Tinoco took over as the most trusted high-leverage option over the last six weeks, and this may be a spring battle for roles. However, there’s no clear plan in place for the franchise, making the closer role speculative at best. There will be aging veterans with closer experience, or the team could be aggressive and trade for a reliever like Camilo Doval, who needs a change of scenery. Stay tuned. 

New York Mets – Riding a second-half resurgence buoyed by throwing more four-seam fastballs and being less reliant on his slider, Edwin Díaz reestablished himself as a top-tier closer. Can he maintain this throughout the entirety of 2025? Here’s hoping so. He will be a top target in preseason drafts and rankings. 

Philadelphia Phillies – After using the “floating closer” concept most of the season, Rob Thomson used Carlos Estévez as his closer after the trade deadline. However, Estévez and Jeff Hoffman will be unrestricted free agents at the end of the season. Will the Phillies try re-signing them or turn to Orion Kerkering as the closer of the future? 

Washington Nationals – Entering his last season under team control, Kyle Finnegan will be the closer on Opening Day. However, as a team on the rise, the Nationals may enhance their leverage ladder this winter via free agency or trades. Coming off a career-high in saves, Finnegan may be a fade depending on his preseason price points. 

National League Central

Chicago Cubs – Porter Hodge ended 2024 with 18 scoreless appearances over his last 19 games, converting eight of nine save chances with 26 strikeouts against nine walks. Because the front office’s modus operandi has not included overpaying for a closer, a pieced-together bullpen may be in store again next season. This puts Hodge at the top of the list for being the closer on Opening Day, but off-season roster construction will determine if this happens. 

Cincinnati Reds – Streaky in his performances in high-leverage events and spotty at times with his command, Alexis Díaz remains a fantasy enigma. He’s recorded 55 saves in the last two years, but his declining K-BB percentage and rising WHIP do not foster trust from fantasy managers. He projects as the Opening Day closer, but his potential volatility makes him a risky investment for 2025. 

Milwaukee Brewers – Tough decisions await the Brewers this winter. Devin Williams will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2025 season. Fantasy players recall past situations where this franchise traded players at their peak ahead of free agency. Will this happen once again? “The Airbender” was terrific after missing the first four months of the season but converted 14 of 15 save chances while being scoreless in 20 of his 22 regular season appearances, recording 38 strikeouts against 11 walks. Those in keeper leagues should track Craig Yoho‘s progress this spring closely. 

Pittsburgh Pirates – What felt like an easy prognostication at the beginning of the season has become much more complex as it concludes. David Bednar was removed from the closer role and was ineffective this season after undergoing two oblique injuries. He’s dealt with side or back injuries in three of the past four seasons. Can he regain his role, or will the team bring pending free agent Aroldis Chapman back on another one-year deal? 

St. Louis Cardinals – A revamped bullpen anchored by Ryan Helsley resulted in a franchise record 49 saves. Andrew Kittredge and JoJo Reyes performed well in set-up roles as well. Can Helsley repeat this level of production in 2025? 

National League West

Arizona Diamondbacks – Limping toward the finish line, there are more questions than answers about the bullpen at the end of the season. A.J. Puk suffered an ugly loss in a “must-win” game and Justin Martinez showed flashes of brilliance, mixed with traffic-induced save situations. Based on in-season usage patterns, Martinez should open 2025 as the closer, but a match-up-based approach could also be deployed. 

Colorado Rockies – The Rockies had a revolving door at the closer position this season. At the beginning of the season, Justin Lawrence and Tyler Kinley were the top two relievers in the hierarchy. Victor Vodnik emerged as the closer in early July until he landed on the injured list in late August. Kinley reemerged, converting all six save chances until he was on the injured list in September. Rookie Seth Halvorsen took over the top of the hierarchy, and a spring battle will decide who gets the gig on Opening Day. Based on underlying indicators, plan on Kinley (if healthy) or Halvorsen, with Jaden Hill, a potential contender, by the second half of 2025. 

Los Angeles Dodgers – Targeting Michael Kopech at the trade deadline, he helped stabilize the backend of the bullpen. He recorded four wins, converted six saves, and notched seven holds with 27 strikeouts versus ten walks across 23 innings. Evan Phillips and Blake Treinen also operated in the late innings, but Treinen will be a free agent at the end of the season. As for Opening Day next season, we lean toward Kopech. Still, those in keeper leagues will track Edgardo Henriquez‘s development closely unless the team makes a trade for a more reliable closer this off-season. 

San Diego Padres – Robert Suarez was dominant in the first half, throwing his four-seam fastball and converting 22 of his first 24 save chances. Fatigue and predictability affected his results in the second half. One should not run from the Padres closer, but a more diverse use of his arsenal will prevent further migration toward the mean. He will be the closer on Opening Day, but his runway was reduced slightly by the second-half struggles ahead of the playoffs. 

San Francisco Giants – It’s too early to give up on Camilo Doval as a closer, and it’s tough to trust him next season after struggling with a rising WHIP and declining K-BB percentage. Things become trickier with the emergence of Ryan Walker. He took over as the closer and converted all ten save chances from August 10-on with 28 strikeouts versus five walks during his last 17 appearances, spanning 19.2 innings. Doval may need a change of scenery, and Walker was the team’s best reliever, making him our projected closer for 2025.

Free Agents for 2025

  • Carlos Estévez
  • Tanner Scott
  • Kirby Yates
  • Aroldis Chapman
  • Kenley Jansen
  • Jeff Hoffman
  • Blake Treinen
  • Clay Holmes
  • Chris Martin
  • Paul Sewald

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: September 30

On the last full slate of the regular season, relievers recorded three wins and secured nine saves. Six relievers recorded their first save of 2024, with four being the first of a pitcher’s career: Ryne Nelson (ARI), Kris Bubic (KC), Edgardo Henriquez (LAD), José Ruiz (PHI).

In case you missed it, Closer Monkey’s 2025 Projected Closer by Teams was posted yesterday.

There will be two games today between Atlanta and the New York Mets; here are the tiebreaker scenarios per MLB.com:

Thanks for being a part of this season at Closer Monkey. Enjoy and be well. If we have helped this season, please leave a TIP for next season’s expenses.

Once the World Series ends, the bullpen hierarchies on the site will reset for 2025 and update once free-agent signings occur. There will not be any further email updates until spring training.

Closer CliffsNotes

Ryne Nelson (ARI) logged three scoreless frames, allowing a hit and striking out one for his first career save. He threw 37 pitches (26 strikes – 70.3 Strike%) and induced four whiffs, closing a nine-run win over the Padres. Joe Mantiply let his only inherited runner on a fielder’s choice groundout and struck out one in two-thirds of the sixth. 

Justin Slaten (BOS) secured his second save with a scoreless ninth, working around a lead-off bunt single by Dylan Carlson and retiring the next three hitters. He threw 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Over his last 13 games, he was scoreless in ten while earning a win and recording a save with 13 strikeouts against zero walks.

Ethan Roberts (CHC) gave up three hits, three earned runs, and a walk at the top of the tenth, resulting in his first loss. Nate Pearson stranded two runners in the eighth and logged 1.1 scoreless innings, allowing a hit and striking out one. 

Enyel De Los Santos (CHW) took over with the bases loaded and two outs at the bottom of the eighth. Inducing an inning-ending groundout. He returned for the ninth and worked around a one-out single with a game-ending double play groundout for his second save. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and produced one whiff.

Buck Farmer (CIN) capped a three-run rally at the top of the tenth, recording his first save with a scoreless bottom of the inning despite issuing a walk. Tony Santillan collected his third win, firing a clean ninth and striking out one.

Victor Vodnik (COL) suffered his fourth loss and a sixth blown save, giving up three hits, including a game-tying Chris Taylor solo home run, and two earned runs over one-third of the eighth. Seth Halvorsen stranded one of two inherited runners while retiring all five batters faced, three via strikeout. He threw 21 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (23.8 SwStr%). 

Kris Bubic (KC) not only converted his first career save but also secured the fifth seed in the playoffs, finishing a two-run win in Atlanta. He allowed Gio Urshela’s lead-off single, then retired the next three batters for a scoreless appearance. He threw 17 pitches (12 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff while recording one strikeout.

Edgardo Henriquez (LAD) preserved a one-run win in Colorado with a scoreless ninth for his first career save. He allowed a walk and recorded two strikeouts on 17 pitches (10 strikes – 58.8 Strike%) with three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%). Michael Kopech notched his ninth hold, firing a clean eighth and striking out two against the 2-3-4 lineup pocket. He threw eighth pitches (87.5 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (37.5 SwStr%). Evan Phillips collected his fifth win, retiring the side and striking out two in the seventh, ahead of his team’s rally at the top of the eighth. 

Anthony Bender (MIA) took over at the bottom of the eighth. He stranded a runner and logged 1.1 scoreless innings, allowing a walk while striking out two for his first save. He threw 25 pitches (52 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

Edwin Díaz (NYM) completed a combined shutout with a scoreless ninth in a non-save outing. He issued a walk and recorded three strikeouts on 26 pitches (50 Strike%) with seven whiffs (26.9 SwStr%). Since August 29, he’s been scoreless in 13 of 14 appearances, converting six saves with 28 strikeouts versus three walks over 14.1 innings.

Clay Holmes (NYY) was called upon with a two-run lead at the top of the ninth against his former team, Pittsburgh. He retired the side and recorded a strikeout facing the 2-3-4 lineup pocket on 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) with one whiff for his 30th save. He finished the regular season on a modest five-game scoreless streak. Luke Weaver collected his seventh win, tossing a scoreless eighth, allowing a hit, and striking out two. Over his last seven appearances, he’s recorded three wins and converted four saves with 24 strikeouts against three walks across 11 innings.

José Ruiz (PHI) navigated around two hits and a walk with two strikeouts in a scoreless bottom of the ninth against the Nationals for his first career save. He threw 25 pitches (64 Strike%) and induced two whiffs.

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: September 29

With the marathon regular season almost over, things remain unsettled in the National League Wild Card standings. There are eight possible scenarios covered in this column by Theo DeRosa of MLB.com, but here are the shortened possibilities for the three teams vying for two postseason spots:

For the American League, if Detroit wins, they will be the fifth seed and play at Baltimore. However, if they lose and Kansas City wins, the Royals will play Baltimore, and the Tigers face Houston.

Ten relievers recorded wins and seven secured saves from Saturday’s games. There were two four-inning saves, including a career first for Justin Wrobleski (LAD). Spencer Bivens (SF) also recorded his first career save, preserving a one-run win over the Cardinals. Our condensed game recaps cover all of yesterday’s high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

A.J. Puk (ARI) took over with one out during a tied game at the top of the ninth against the Padres. He allowed a single by David Peralta, Kyle Hhigashioka’s go-ahead two-run home run, and Brandon Lockridge’s solo home run. Puk was removed after retiring Tyler Wade on a lineout, suffering his ninth loss. He lost a 25-game scoreless streak and allowed two home runs in a relief outing for the first time in his career. Scott McGough finished the ninth, giving up two hits and two earned runs. Justin Martinez retired all four batters, one via strikeout. 

  • Updated Hierarchy: *Justin Martinez | *A.J. Puk | Kevin Ginkel
  • *= closer-by-committee

Raisel Iglesias (ATL) kept the game tied with a clean top of the ninth and collected his sixth win on a walk-off home run at the bottom of the inning. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts. Over his last 13 outings, he’s been scoreless in 11 with two wins and five saves while posting 16 strikeouts against five walks.

  • Hierarchy remains: Raisel Iglesias | Joe Jiménez | Pierce Johnson

Porter Hodge (CHC) fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout for his ninth save. He threw 12 pitches (7 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Since August 4, he’s appeared in 19 games and been scoreless in 18 while converting eight of nine save chances with 26 strikeouts against nine walks. Tyson Miller collected his fifth win, allowing a hit during two-thirds of the eighth. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Porter Hodge | Tyson Miller | Nate Pearson

Gus Varland (CHW) finished a combined shutout, allowing a walk during a scoreless bottom of the ninth. Michael Soroka notched his second hold, firing three clean frames and striking out five. He threw 43 pitches (29 strikes – 67.4 Strike%) and generated eight whiffs (18.6 SwStr%). He finishes September with three scoreless appearances, spanning 7.1 innings while recording 13 strikeouts against two walks. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Justin Anderson | Fraser Ellard | Prelander Berroa

Shawn Dubin (HOU) fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts, preserving a one-run win in Cleveland for his second save. He threw 14 pitches (64.2 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%) versus the 7-8-9 lineup pocket. Ryan Pressly faced the heart of the Guardians’ lineup, working around José Ramírez’s lead-off double with a groundout and a fielder’s choice groundout, cutting down the runner at home for his 25th hold.

  • Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

Sam Long (KC) entered at the bottom of the eighth but suffered his third loss, allowing a walk-off Travis d’Arnaud home run in the ninth. Long finished 1.1 innings, giving up one hit, one earned run, and a walk while striking out three.

  • Hierarchy remains: Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber | Kris Bubic

José Quijada (LAA) was summoned for the save chance with a three-run lead at the top of the ninth. He issued Marcus Semien a lead-off walk, recorded a strikeout, then another walk and a hit batter, loading the bases. After Nathaniel Lowe singled in a run, Quijada was removed, leaving three runners on base. Ryan Miller let all three inherited runners score, giving up a two-RBI single by Jonathan Ornelas, with the third scoring on a throwing error, resulting in his first blown save. Miller recorded two outs and allowed only one hit. Quijada was tagged with his second loss, allowing four runs (three earned) and three walks in one-third of the ninth.

  • Updated Hierarchy: *José Quijada | *Ryan Miller | Brock Burke
  • *= closer-by-committee

Justin Wrobleski (LAD) logged four scoreless frames during a lopsided win in Colorado, recording his first career save. He allowed two hits and two walks while striking out four on 49 pitches (33 strikes – 67.3 Strike%) with nine whiffs (18.4 SwStr%). 

  • Hierarchy remains: *Michael Kopech | *Blake Treinen | *Evan Phillips
  • *= closer-by-committee

Darren McCaughan (MIA) logged four scoreless frames, scattering two hits and walking one while striking out four for his second save. He threw 54 pitches (37 strikes – 68.5 Strike%) and only induced two whiffs. He’s converted the team’s last two saves. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Jesús Tinoco | Declan Cronin | Anthony Bender

Devin Williams (MIL) preserved a combined shutout, issuing a one-out walk during a scoreless ninth in a non-save outing. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%) in potentially his last outing of the regular season. He’s amid a 13-game scoreless streak and converted all nine save chances with 22 strikeouts against five walks.

  • Hierarchy remains: Devin Williams | Trevor Megill | Joel Payamps

Scott Alexander (OAK) entered a tied game at the bottom of the tenth. He issued a one-out intentional walk to Dylan Moore and induced a fielder’s choice groundout, which scored the “place” runner, resulting in his third loss. Mason Miller could not protect a two-run lead at the bottom of the ninth. He allowed two hits, including a game-tying Luke Raley two-run home run, and recorded three strikeouts in his third blown save. He threw 17 pitches (13 strikes – 76.5 Strike%) and generated seven whiffs (41.2 SwStr%). In his previous 29 appearances, he converted all 16 save chances with 45 strikeouts versus nine walks across 32.1 innings since June 18. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Mason Miller | Tyler Ferguson | Michel Otañez

Jeff Hoffman (PHI)  took over a tied game at the bottom of the eighth. He allowed four hits, including Joey Gallo’s three-run home run, and recorded two strikeouts, resulting in his third loss.

  • Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Jeff Hoffman | Matt Strahm

Aroldis Chapman (PIT) was summoned with the bases loaded and one out. He protected the lead, striking out Aaron Judge and inducing a game-ending flyout by Austin Wells, resulting in his 14th save. He threw nine pitches (55.6 Strike%) and produced one whiff. He’s converted eight consecutive save opportunities and been scoreless in his last six. Jalen Beeks created the save situation, allowing two hits and a walk while striking out one in one-third of the ninth.

  • Hierarchy remains: Aroldis Chapman | Dennis Santana | David Bednar

Yuki Matsui (SD) capped a five-run rally at the top of the ninth, completing a combined shutout. He navigated around a lead-off single with a lineout and consecutive strikeouts. Wandy Peralta collected his third win, issuing a walk during a scoreless bottom of the eighth.

  • Hierarchy remains: Robert Suarez | Tanner Scott | Jason Adam

Eduard Bazardo (SEA) retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the top of the tenth, collecting his second win on a walk-off at the bottom of the inning. Collin Snider suffered his second blown save, giving up three hits, including Shea Langeliers’ three-run home run, and striking out two at the top of the ninth. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Andrés Muñoz | Collin Snider | Troy Taylor

Spencer Bivens (SF) recorded his first career save, allowing a lead-off single and retiring the next three batters, two via strikeout, sealing a one-run win. Ryan Walker took over at the top of the eighth against the Cardinals’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket, navigating around a hit and a walk for a scoreless outing. He collected his tenth win courtesy of his team’s rally at the bottom of the inning. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Ryan Walker | Tyler Rogers | Camilo Doval

Matthew Liberatore (STL) took over a tied game at the bottom of the eighth. He allowed two hits and an unearned run while striking out two, resulting in his fourth loss.

  • Hierarchy remains: Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | Matthew Liberatore

Kirby Yates (TEX) retired the side and recorded one strikeout against the Angels’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket for his 33rd save. He threw nine pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). He’s converted 12 consecutive save opportunities and been scoreless over his last 11 appearances with 11 strikeouts versus five walks with a 0.68 WHIP. Dane Dunning collected his fifth win, tossing a clean eighth and striking out one ahead of his team’s four-run top of the ninth. Marc Church allowed a hit and struck out one in a scoreless seventh while making his major league debut. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Kirby Yates | David Robertson | José Leclerc

Kyle Finnegan (WSH) entered with a four-run lead at the top of the ninth. He gave up Nick Castellanos’ lead-off triple and an RBI fielder’s choice while striking out one in a non-save capacity. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). He’s allowed a run in three straight outings. Jose A. Ferrer was tagged with his first blown save and collected his first win, giving up Trea Turner’s game-tying two-run home run at the top of the eighth. He finished 1.1 innings with one hit, two earned runs, and a strikeout.

  • Hierarchy remains: Kyle Finnegan | Derek Law | Jose A. Ferrer

Vulture Save Options for Sunday, September 29

  • Andrew Kittredge (STL): Helsley will not pitch on Sunday, ending his season at 49 saves. 
  • Bryan Abreu (HOU): He’s the most rested high-leverage reliever and doubt Hader pitches today. 
  • Trevor Megill (MIL): Williams pitched last night and will be rested until their first playoff contest. 
  • Troy Taylor (SEA): Muñoz has not pitched since Tuesday, and the rookie secured his first on Friday. 
  • David Bednar (PIT): Chapman and Santana have appeared in back-to-back games. 
  • Michel Otañez (OAK): If the A’s rest Mller, their other flamethrowing rookie would be in line for the save.

Vulture Save Stashes for Monday, September 30

  • José Butto (NYM)
  • Pierce Johnson (ATL)

No Three Takeaways today, but our projected 2025 closers will be posted later today (Sunday, September 29).

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

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast

Monkey Bytes: September 28

Friday’s slate featured the playoff picture in the American League finished. Detroit and Kansas City will be the last Wild Card teams, with Minnesota being eliminated from the postseason. In the National League, San Diego clinched the top Wild Card spot and will host a three-game series. Things became more tense for Atlanta, Arizona, and the Mets for the remaining two playoff berths:

During Friday’s slate, relievers recorded five wins and secured ten saves. There were also no blown saves, a rare occasion. Our condensed recaps cover all of the high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

Raisel Iglesias (ATL) retired his only batter on one pitch while recording his 33rd save. With two outs and two runners on, Iglesias induced a Salvador Perez flyout. He’s converted all five save chances in September with 14 strikeouts versus five walks across 13 innings. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Raisel Iglesias | Joe Jiménez | Pierce Johnson

Seranthony Domínguez (BAL) turned in a sideways outing in a non-save appearance. He took over a shutout at the bottom of the ninth, walking the lead-off hitter, followed by a Byron Buxton double and a two-RBI single by Carlos Santana before recording an out. He ended the game on three groundouts and finished with two hits, two earned runs, and a walk on 22 pitches (12 strikes – 54.5 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s allowed at least a run in three of his past five outings.

  • Hierarchy remains: *Seranthony Domínguez | *Yennier Cano| *Gregory Soto
  • *= closer-by-committee

Porter Hodge (CHC) completed a combined shutout and secured his eighth save. He retired the side and recorded a strikeout against the Reds’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket. He threw eight pitches (87.5 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (25 SwStr%). Since August 4, he’s appeared in 18 games and been scoreless in 17 while converting seven of eight save chances with 25 strikeouts against nine walks. Tyson Miller notched his 15th hold with a clean eighth, striking out one on ten pitches (70 Strike%) with three whiffs. 

  • Updated Hierarchy: Porter Hodge | Tyson Miller | Nate Pearson

Jared Shuster (CHW) suffered his fifth loss while logging two innings in Detroit. He allowed a hit, two earned runs, and three walks while striking out four. This loss will be remembered since it’s the most by an MLB team in a season ever. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Justin Anderson | Fraser Ellard | Prelander Berroa

Jason Foley (DET) stranded a runner while retiring his only batter, Andrew Vaughn, via a flyout for his 28th save and postseason-clinching victory. He’s converted 13 of 14 save opportunities in his last 20 appearances with a 0.82 WHIP over 17 innings. Tyler Holton allowed a walk and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless, combined inning, securing his 15th hold. Will Vest logged 1.2 clean frames and recorded two strikeouts for his 14th hold. Brandon Hurter collected his sixth win, tossing four innings, giving up two hits and an earned run while striking out one. 

  • Hierarchy remains: *Jason Foley | *Tyler Holton | *Beau Brieske
  • *= closer-by-committee

Josh Hader (HOU) could not complete a combined shutout in a non-save outing. He issued a lead-off walk to Jsoh Naylor, followed by a Lane Thomas single and a David Fry RBI double. After recording a strikeout, Hader allowed a fielder’s choice RBI, scoring a second run before inducing a game-ending flyout. He threw 23 pitches (16 strikes – 69.6 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (17.4 SwStr%). However, his final line was two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one. Bryan Abreu notched his MLB-leading 38th hold, stranding three inherited runners and striking out both batters in the bottom of the eighth.

  • Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

Ben Casparius (LAD) took over at the bottom of the second and collected his second win as the “bulk follower.” He logged 4.1 innings, giving up six hits, two runs (one earned), and two walks while striking out seven against Colorado. 

  • Hierarchy remains: *Michael Kopech | *Blake Treinen | *Evan Phillips
  • *= closer-by-committee

Trevor Megill (MIL) stranded two runners at the top of the eighth and remained in for the ninth. He finished 1.1 scoreless innings, giving up a lead-off Francisco Lindor single in the ninth and recorded one strikeout for his 21st save, completing a four-run win over the Mets. Megill threw 14 pitches (92.9 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). This marked his first save since July 23, and he’s been scoreless in his last four. Hoby Milner allowed two hits, two runs (one earned), and struck out one in two-thirds of the eighth. Joe Ross collected his third win, tossing three scoreless frames, scattering two hits, and walking one while striking out three. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Devin Williams | Trevor Megill | Joel Payamps

Tommy Kahnle (NYY) gave up two hits, including Bryan Reynolds’ go-ahead two-run home run, and recorded two strikeouts, resulting in his second loss. Clay Holmes tossed a clean seventh. Ian Hamilton retired both batters, one via strikeout in the sixth. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Luke Weaver | Tommy Kahnle | Ian Hamilton

Aroldis Chapman (PIT) shut the door on his eighth save while retiring the side and recorded two strikeouts while finishing a two-run win over the Yankees. He threw eight pitches (87.5 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (50 SwStr%) against the 7-8-9 lineup pocket. He’s converted seven consecutive save opportunities and been scoreless in his last five. Dennis Santana fired a clean eighth, striking out one for his 11th hold. Carmen Mlodzinski collected his fifth win, retiring the side and striking out two in the seventh, ahead of his team’s two-run rally at the top of the eighth.

  • Hierarchy remains: Aroldis Chapman | Dennis Santana | David Bednar

Robert Suarez (SD) tossed a scoreless bottom of the ninth, allowing a walk and striking out one while completing a two-run win in Arizona and his 36th save. He threw 22 pitches (14 strikes – 63.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff against the 9-1-2-3 hitters. He’s converted his last three save opportunities. This win secured the top Wild Card position and a home series in the first round of the playoffs. 

  • Updated Hierarchy: Robert Suarez | Tanner Scott | Jason Adam

Troy Taylor (SEA) recorded his first major league save, completing a combined shutout of the A’s. He took over against the 4-5-6 lineup pocket and worked around a lead-off Tyler Soderstrom double with consecutive strikeouts followed by a game-ending groundout. He threw 20 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced one whiff. There was no word about why Andrés Muñoz was not used. He’s pitched through elbow and back issues this season, so he may be shut down with his team eliminated from playoff contention. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Andrés Muñoz | Collin Snider | Troy Taylor

Ryan Helsley (STL) set a franchise record with his MLB-leading 49th save. He navigated around a one-out single by Mike Yastrzemski with consecutive strikeouts, preserving a three-run win in San Francisco. He threw 13 pitches (11 strikes – 84.6 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%). He’s converted his last seven save chances with 11 strikeouts against zero walks with a minuscule 0.45 WHIP through 6.2 innings.

  • Hierarchy remains: Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | Matthew Liberatore

Edwin Uceta (TB) navigated around a one-out Vaughn Grissom single with a flyout and a game-ending strikeout for his fifth save. He threw 17 pitches (76.5 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%). Since August 20, he’s recorded a win and converted all five save chances with 22 strikeouts against four walks through 13 innings. 

  • Hierarchy remains: *Edwin Uceta | *Garrett Cleavinger | *Hunter Bigge
  • *= closer-by-committee

Kirby Yates (TEX) allowed a two-out walk during a scoreless bottom of the ninth, finishing a three-run win over the Angels with his 32nd save. He threw 20 pitches (65 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s converted his last 11 save chances since August 19 and has been scoreless in his last ten games. David Robertson notched his 34th hold, walking one and striking out two in a scoreless eighth. José Leclerc stranded a runner while retiring his only batter in the seventh, securing his 13th hold. Andrew Chafin issued a walk and recorded his 13th hold with two-thirds scoreless in the seventh. Daniel Robert collected his first major league win, tossing a scoreless sixth, giving up a hit, and striking out two. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Kirby Yates | David Robertson | José Leclerc

Vulture Save Options for Saturday, September 28

  • Jackson Jobe (DET): Foley has appeared in two straight, and with the team clinching a postseason berth, it’s time to see how Jobe responds to a high-leverage situation. Beau Brieske will also be in play. 
  • Ryan Pressly (HOU): Hader had a rough outing last night, and the team will not push his workload ahead of the playoffs. 
  • Tanner Scott (SD): Suarez and Adam pitched in Friday’s win, leaving Scott in line for the save chance today. 

Vulture Save Stashes for Sunday, September 29

  • Beau Brieske (DET): If Jobe pitches today, look for a Beau multi-inning outing on Sunday. 
  • Andrew Kittredge (STL): If Helsley pitches again on Saturday, he will get Sunday off after appearing in two straight contests. 

Three Takeaways

Foley’s resurgence: After undergoing some tumultuous outings in July, Jason Foley refined his command and adjusted with his sinker at 97 m.p.h. with a solid finish to his season. He’s not flashy, but over his last 26 games, he’s converted 13 of his 14 save chances while entering games whenever his team needed him. His rolling 15-game chart from Fangraphs aligns with his team’s rise in the standings and first playoff appearance in ten years: 

Porter on tap: With his team’s modus operandi remaining not overspending on relievers, will Porter Hodge open 2025 as the closer for the Cubs? Since August 17, he’s collected two wins and converted seven of eight save opportunities with 17 strikeouts against seven walks. However, fantasy managers will note the walk rate in this sample and for the season. Can he reduce this next year? Will he generate more whiffs next year? Stay tuned. I love his demeanor, and perhaps adding a pitch in the offseason may unlock a new level of production, but it will depend on issuing fewer free passes. 

Will Chapman’s strong second half yield a closer gig in 2025?: When Aroldis Chapman signed a one-year deal with the Pirates, it remained a bit off the radar because it was to set up for David Bednar. However, he ranks eighth among all qualified relievers in K-BB percentage (32.4) and has produced a 1.03 WHIP through 26.1 innings. He’s also generating a 15.6 swinging strike percentage and a contact rate allowed below 70 percent. After tweaking his arsenal and throwing more strikes, he’s thrived while wearing the black and yellow. Could he return for an encore next year? If so, will he displace Bednar from the ninth inning again? 

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

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast

Monkey Bytes: September 27

Usually, the introduction recaps the previous day’s slate of high-leverage outcomes. However, after watching the last game in Oakland yesterday and witnessing the outpouring of emotion, I agree with the sentiments shared by Jeff Passan and cannot say it any better:

My Grandpa introduced me to baseball, taking me to Opening Day in Syracuse throughout my childhood. He taught me to keep score and shared his love for the game. Baseball is a generational sport, and situations like this prevent bonds like this from forming.

As for the game results, the Yankees and the Dodgers clinched their respective divisions. Minnesota lost an extra-inning game to Miami, putting the magic number for Detroit and Kansas City at one. Life comes at you fast. In yesterday’s contests, relievers recorded five wins and secured six saves. Our condensed game recaps cover the high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

Seth Halvorsen (COL) secured his second save, capping a five-run rally at the bottom of the eighth, allowing a two-out single and striking out one in a scoreless top of the ninth. He threw 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s made quite an impression as a rookie. Through his first 11 appearances, he’s been scoreless in ten with two wins and two saves. Angel Chivilli was awarded his second win despite giving up two hits, including Pedro Pagés two-run home run and striking out one. Victor Vodnik tossed a scoreless seventh, walking and striking out one.

  • Hierarchy remains: Seth Halvorsen | Angel Chivilli | Victor Vodnik

Jason Foley (DET) shut the door on his 27th save. He fired a clean top of the ninth, recording two strikeouts while preserving a comeback win over the Rays. He threw 12 pitches (7 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (25 SwStr%). Since August 15, he’s converted 11 of 12 save chances while being scoreless in 16 of his 19 appearances. Beau Brieske earned his fourth win, tossing two clean frames. Over his last eight games, he’s been scoreless in seven and recorded two wins in his last three. 

  • Hierarchy remains: *Jason Foley | *Tyler Holton | *Beau Brieske
  • *= closer-by-committee

Lucas Erceg (KC) retired the side and recorded a strikeout, capping a three-run rally at the top of the ninth while securing his 14th save. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted all six save opportunities in his last nine outings with eight scoreless games and 13 strikeouts against one walk. Kris Bubic collected his first win, tossing a scoreless eighth. He gave up a hit and struck out two.

  • Hierarchy remains: Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber | Kris Bubic

Michael Kopech (LAD) tossed a scoreless top of the ninth, giving up a hit and striking out one on 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) with three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%) in a non-save outing during his team’s clinching of the National League West. Since his acquisition, he’s appeared in 23 games with Los Angeles, with 20 being scoreless, posting four wins, six saves, and seven holds with a 27:10 K:BB and 0.83 WHIP across 23 innings. Blake Treinen notched his 16th hold, walking one during a scoreless eighth. Anthony Banda stranded a runner in the sixth and retired all four batters, collecting his third win.

  • Updated Hierarchy: Michael Kopech | Blake Treinen | Evan Phillips

Darren McCaughan (MIA) retired the side while preserving a two-run win over the Twins for his first career save, though he did permit the “place” runner to score. Anthony Maldonado collected his first win. He logged two scoreless frames, giving up a hit and two walks. Michael Peterson suffered his first blown save, issuing two walks and letting the “place” runner score in the tenth on a sacrifice fly. Jesús Tinoco was tagged with his first blown save. He took over with a runner on and one out in the bottom of the eighth but gave up a single, followed by Brooks Lee’s two-RBI double, scoring the inherited runner and putting an earned run on his ledger. Tinoco finished his 1.2 innings with three hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one.

  • Hierarchy remains: Jesús Tinoco | Declan Cronin | Anthony Bender

Devin Williams (MIL) navigated around a one-out Nick Gonzalez double with a strikeout and a game-ending flyout for his 14th save. He threw 21 pitches (13 strikes – 61.9 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s converted nine straight save chances and been scoreless over his last 12 appearances with 21 strikeouts against six walks.

  • Hierarchy remains: Devin Williams | Trevor Megill | Joel Payamps

Mason Miller (OAK) set a franchise record with his 28th save as a rookie, throwing the last pitch at Oakland Coliseum. He preserved a one-run win over Texas, retiring all four batters, two via strikeout on 19 pitches (12 strikes – 63.2 Strike%) with five whiffs (26.3 SwStr%). Since June 18, he’s converted 16 consecutive save chances with 45 strikeouts against nine walks over 32.1 innings. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Mason Miller | Tyler Ferguson | Michel Otañez

Tanner Scott (SD) took over with the score tied at the bottom of the seventh and one out. He allowed an Enrique Hernández single, Andy Pages reached on catcher’s interference, and Shohei Ohtani drove in the go-ahead run on an RBI single. Mookie Betts followed with a two-RBI single, putting three runs (two earned) on Scott’s final line with three hits and a walk (intentional – Teoscar Hernández) during his two-thirds inning, resulting in his sixth loss.

  • Updated Hierarchy: Robert Suarez | Tanner Scott | Jason Adam

Ryan Fernandez (STL) stranded a runner in the seventh but suffered his sixth loss and a third blown save. He allowed three hits, four earned runs, and a walk while striking out two in his combined inning of relief. Patrick Leahy let his only inherited runner score, giving up two hits and an earned run in one-third of the eighth. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | Matthew Liberatore

Garrett Cleavinger (TB) took over with a one-run lead at the bottom of the eighth but suffered his fifth loss and a second blown save. He gave up a one-out single by Riley Greene, threw a wild pitch, issued a walk, and a game-tying RBI single by Cole Keith. He allowed the go-ahead run score on a sacrifice fly. 

  • Hierarchy remains: *Edwin Uceta | *Garrett Cleavinger | *Hunter Bigge
  • *= closer-by-committee

Kyle Finnegan (WSH) entered a tied game at the top of the ninth. He allowed two hits, three earned runs, and three walks while recording two outs, resulting in his eighth loss. He threw 28 pitches (50 Strike%) and only induced one whiff. He’s been tagged with a loss in consecutive outings and given up at least a run in three of his last eight.

  • Hierarchy remains: Kyle Finnegan | Derek Law | Jose A. Ferrer

Vulture Save Options for Friday. September 27

  • Kris Bubic (KC): Erceg has appeared in three consecutive games, Schreiber in the previous two. Alec Marsh should log multiple innings if needed in tonight’s game. 
  • Justin Slaten (BOS): He was mentioned as an option for saves; Alex Cora should use him for one this weekend, but will he? 
  • Kevin Ginkel (ARI): It will be all hands on deck for the Diamondbacks, and if it’s a right-handed pocket in the ninth, recent usage patterns lean toward Ginkel. If it’s a left-handed pocket, plan on A.J. Puk. 
  • Trevor Megill (MIL): The Brewers cannot improve their seed for the playoffs, so using Devin Williams on consecutive days may not occur. It’s workload management season. 
  • Daniel Hudson (LAD): Kopech, Treinen, and Phillips have all worked in back-to-back games.

Vulture Save Stashes for Saturday, September 28

They will be based on Friday’s usage patterns and which teams remain in the race for the playoffs. If Slaten and Ginkel do not pitch tonight, plan on having them listed once again.

Three Takeaways

Erceg’s hat trick: Appearing and recording the save in three straight games, Lucas Erceg is now tied for first in WAR (wins above replacement) for all qualified relievers since his first game with the Royals on July 31. He’s suffered three losses but converted 11 of his 13 save chances with 31 strikeouts against eight walks across 25 innings. He’s now recorded a game-finished in 12 of his 23 appearances with Kansas City and enters the postseason as the team’s preferred save option.

Puk’s renaissance as a reliever: After operating as a starting pitcher at the onset of the season, A.J. Puk has thrived since transitioning back to a reliever. He’s tied with Erceg in WAR in the timeframe above and also ranks as noted among all relievers since July 31:

  • K-BB% – 1st (41.7%)
  • SIERA – 1st (1.19)
  • WHIP – 3rd (0.58)
  • Swinging Strike Percentage – 6th (20.4%)
  • Contact rate allowed – Tied for 10th (62.1%)

His role is not as defined as Erceg’s, but how he’s used this weekend and potentially in the playoffs may provide the blueprint for his role in 2025. Stay tuned.

Padres relievers and fatigue: Since July 31, Tanner Scott has logged more appearances than his peers (28), and Jason Adam is tied for third (26). Although the bullpen should be a position of strength for San Diego entering postseason play, heavy usage patterns may necessitate a weekend of rest against Arizona. Using this timeframe, here are the high-leverage triumvirate’s results:

  • Robert Suarez: 22 games, 21.1 IP, 5 clean outings, 16:7 K:BB (9.7 K-BB%), 1.45 WHIP, 4.08 SIERA, 12.6 SwStr%, 76.9 percent contact rate allowed
  • Tanner Scott: 28 games, 26.1 IP, 6 clean outings, 31:9 K:BB (19.6 K-BB%). 1.33 WHIP, 2.98 SIERA, 16.5 SwStr%, 70.2 percent contact rate allowed
  • Jason Adam: 26 games, 25.1 IP, 13 clean outings, 30:7 K:BB (23.7 K-BB%), 0.79 WHIP, 2.83 SIERA, 19.9 SwStr%, 59.5 percent contact rate allowed

Getting each reliever one more outing makes sense, but managing their workloads should be a priority. Traffic in high-leverage playoff innings does not end well.

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

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast