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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Monkey Bytes: August 2

Although small, Thursday’s five-game slate provided plenty of intrigue, especially the last three contests. Raisel Iglesias secured his 23rd save while working in a third straight game. Ryan Helsley allowed a walk-off rally by the Cubs, and cagy veteran Hunter Strickland suffered a blown save versus the Rockies.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Raisel Iglesias (ATL) appeared for a third straight game and recorded his 23rd save, his first in the second half, with a clean ninth while recording a strikeout. 
  • Nate Pearson (CHC) benefited from a walk-off rally and collected his first win. He worked two scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out one. 
  • Tyler Kinley (COL) notched his first save since June and sixth of the season, with a scoreless bottom of the tenth. Victor Vodnik picked up his third win courtesy of a scoreless ninth, keeping the game tied after his teammates rallied at the top of the inning and scored the game-winning run in the tenth. 
  • Hunter Strickland (LAA) suffered his second blown save. He issued a walk and gave up a game-tying Jake Cave two-run home run in the top of the ninth. If only the team had better options for save chances. 
  • Ryan Helsley (STL) tied his season-high by allowing four hits and three earned runs for the first time in 2024. This resulted in his fourth loss and third blown save during a walk-off against the Cubs. 

What to Watch For This Weekend

American League

Baltimore Orioles – Craig Kimbrel last recorded a save on July 7 and has allowed seven earned runs over his last six appearances spanning 5.2 innings. Will Brandon Hyde call upon Yennier Cano and his career 5.34 ERA in the ninth inning or try newly added Seranthony Domínguez (28 career saves) in save situations this weekend?

Boston Red Sox—Kenley Jansen is day-to-day after tweaking his back during a pitch on Wednesday. Will he appear on consecutive days this weekend, or will Lucas Sims and/or Luis García receive an opportunity in the ninth?

Detroit Tigers – Who gets the next save chance for the Tigers? Shelby Miller secured his team’s only second-half save and may be in line, but save chances have been few and far between for this team over the last two weeks.

Kansas City Royals—Although no signs of a role change are imminent, adding Hunter Harvey and Lucas Erceg at the trade deadline signals that the team needs better outcomes in high-leverage events. James McArthur enters the weekend as the presumed closer, but he must improve his recent results. He converted four of five saves in July but allowed at least a run in four of eight games with a 1.73 WHIP and 9.8 K-BB percentage.

Los Angeles Angels—Fantasy managers cannot force a change in the bullpen hierarchy, but Hunter Strickland‘s blown save last night may give Ben Joyce a chance shortly. It’s tough to determine what a rebuilding team gains by using a 35-year-old pending free agent in save situations.

National League

Arizona Diamondbacks – July will be a month Paul Sewald hopes to forget. He suffered four blown saves and was spared a fifth when Ryan Thompson bailed him out on Wednesday. It’s more than a mechanical issue, especially with Sewald’s four-seam velocity remaining a tick down compared with last year. Fantasy players will keep tabs on how Torey Lovullo uses his relievers in save chances this weekend. Will it be Sewald? Thompson (a Clay Holmes-lite)? Or newly acquired A.J. Puk? Or a combination of them in a match-up-based approach with Kevin Ginkel also in the mix?

Los Angeles Dodgers—This leverage ladder has had a rough last 30 days, with as many blown saves (eight) as saves (eight) in 23 games. Which reliever will emerge in August? Can Evan Phillips find his past form? Could Michael Kopech earn a more prominent leverage role in the next two weeks?

Miami Marlins – Although the team has not had a save opportunity since trading Tanner Scott, Calvin Faucher finished a four-run win earlier this week and could be in line for his first save since 2022 this weekend. However, this could also be a match-up-based bullpen with Andrew Nardi and Anthony Bender in the mix. Stay tuned.

Milwaukee Brewers – Devin Williams will not be making back-to-back outings in the near term, and there has been no indication when the team will take the training wheels off during his return from a stress fracture in his back. Will Joel Payamps be the preferred ancillary save option? Can those with Trevor Megill hold out hope for save chances once he returns?

San Diego Padres—After reporting to his new team, Tanner Scott said he would be ready whenever the phone rang, as Kevin Acee covered in this post for The San Diego Union-Tribune. Mike Shildt confirmed Robert Suarez will remain his closer, but he can used more sparingly and not log multiple-inning outings with the new “superpen” A.J. Preller has put together, adding Scott and Jason Adam.

San Francisco Giants – The good news is Camilo Doval converted six of seven save opportunities in July. However, he also finished the month with a 1.68 WHIP and 18.4 K-BB percentage through 8.1 innings. Can he regain past results over the remainder of the second half?

Vulture Save Option for Friday, August 2

  • Joe Jiménez (ATL): This time, an Atlanta reliever other than Raisel Iglesias should pitch since he’s worked in three consecutive games.

Vulture Save Option for Saturday, August 3

  • Andrew Kittredge (STL): If Helsley pitches again today, it will be back-to-back outings.

American League – Game Recap from August 1

Los Angeles Angels – In the top of the tenth, Hans Crouse made a throwing error on a sacrifice bunt by Sam Hilliard leading off the inning, scoring the “place” runner. This resulted in his third loss. Crouse recovered with two strikeouts while retiring the next three batters.

  • Hunter Strickland suffered his second blown save in the ninth. His outing started with a walk, a leverage mortal sin, and a one-out, game-tying Jake Cave two-run home run. Strickland finished with a hit, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one on 18 pitches (50 Strike%) with one whiff.
  • Ben Joyce tossed a scoreless eighth, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out one. After the first two batters reached, he induced a double play groundball and struck out Brenton Doyle, ending the threat. He threw 19 pitches (12 strikes – 63.2 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He secured his seventh hold and extended his scoreless streak to 17 games, spanning 21.1 innings with 19 strikeouts against 10 walks and a 0.85 WHIP.

Hierarchy remains: *Ben Joyce | *Hunter Strickland | Hans Crouse

*= closer-by-committee

National League – Game Recaps from August 1

Atlanta Braves – Securing his first second-half save and 23rd of the season, Raisel Iglesias fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout despite appearing in a third straight game. He threw 10 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless over his last seven with nine strikeouts against one walk.

  • A.J. Minter retired the side and recorded two strikeouts for his ninth hold in the eighth inning.
  • Luke Jackson let one of two inherited runners score, yielding a hit and retiring one for his third hold.
  • Dylan Lee issued two walks, resulting in an earned run, and recorded a strikeout in two-thirds of the seventh, getting credit for his third hold.

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

Chicago Cubs – Taking over with his team down by two runs, Nate Pearson tossed two scoreless frames, allowing a hit and striking out one. He collected his first win courtesy of his team’s three-run rally in the bottom of the ninth. Pearson threw 28 pitches (20 strikes – 71.4 Strike%) and induced one whiff during his second outing with his new team.

  • Jorge López let his only inherited runner score in the seventh on Nolan Arenado’s RBI single and recorded a strikeout in his one-third of an inning.

Hierarchy remains: Héctor Neris | Porter Hodge | Julian Merryweather

Colorado Rockies – With a one-run lead in the bottom of the tenth, Tyler Kinley retired the side and recorded a strikeout against the Angels’ 3-4-5 hitters despite uncorking a wild pitch. This marked his first save since June 11.

  • Victor Vodnik collected his third win. He threw a scoreless ninth, allowing a walk and striking out one while his team trailed by one, then benefited from a game-tying two-run home run by Jake Cave. Vodnik tossed 18 pitches (55.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in six of his last seven appearances with eight strikeouts against two walks while converting this win and three saves.
  • Angel Chivilli worked a clean seventh and recorded a strikeout.

Hierarchy remains: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence

St. Louis Cardinals – August began poorly for Ryan Helsley. He suffered his fourth loss and third blown save, allowing a walk-off rally by the Cubs. After retiring Seiya Suzuki on a pop-out, Cody Bellinger launched a solo home run, followed by an Isaac Paredes groundout. However, with two outs, Nico Hoerner singled, stole second base, and scored on Dansby Swanson’s RBI double, then scored on Mike Tauchman’s pinch-hit double. Helsley gave up four hits for the second time this season and three earned runs, his most allowed all year. He threw 24 pitches (17 strikes – 70.8 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (20.8 SwStr%).

  • JoJo Romero notched his 27th hold with a clean bottom of the eighth and two strikeouts.

Hierarchy remains: Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | JoJo Romero

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Monkey Bytes: August 1

Following a voluminous trade deadline for relievers, roles will continue to evolve through this weekend. It is challenging to say one reliever will be the closer when teams may be deploying a match-up-based approach or auditioning players for their leverage role. Because of this, the hierarchies and our closer depth chart will undergo multiple updates over the next few days.

Yesterday, two relievers recorded wins, and there were only four saves. While many keep chasing saves in unsettled situations, a reliever may emerge for the Rockies. Change may be on tap in Arizona, and the Dodgers remain challenging to predict.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Ryan Thompson (ARI) was called upon with one out in the ninth and two runners on. He produced a strikeout, scored a runner on a wild pitch, intentionally walked a batter, and induced a game-ending groundout, preserving a one-run win.  
  • Pierce Johnson (ATL) collected his fourth win. He took over in the sixth and stranded two runners. He finished with 1.1 scoreless innings, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out two. 
  • Zack Kelly (BOS) worked a scoreless top of the tenth, navigating around a wild pitch and a walk while striking out one. He earned his fourth win via a walk-off double by Rafael Devers leading off the bottom of the inning. 
  • Victor Vodnik (COL) nailed down his fourth save. He retired the side against the Angels and recorded a strikeout while preserving a one-run win. 
  • Josh Hader (HOU) notched his 21st save with a scoreless ninth. He allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout while finishing a one-run come-from-behind win over the Pirates. 
  • Jared Koenig (MIL) was tagged with his third loss. He gave up a hit, two unearned runs, and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the seventh. Elvis Peguero replaced him, letting two of three inherited runners score on an Austin Riley single. 
  • Clay Holmes (NYY) recorded his 22nd save, allowing a hit during a scoreless ninth.

Two Takeaways

  • Sewald on the hot seat: Although his manager deflected a direct answer in this video, Paul Sewald began July with three blown saves, and he ended it with a hold but was removed from his save opportunity yesterday on the brink of his fifth in a 12-game span. His four-seam fastball velocity remains down this season and the lingering effects of his oblique injury may signal it’s not going to rebound with time off. In the near term, fantasy managers await Torey Lovullo’s plan for future saves, but a mix of A.J. Puk, Ryan Thompson, and Kevin Ginkel may happen as soon as this weekend. For the visual crowd, here is his splits-by-pitch this year versus last:

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

  • V-squared: Targeting a Rockies reliever can cause apprehension, but with so many bullpens thrust into disarray, could Victor Vodnik help fantasy managers in the near term? He secured his fourth save in July and has a 20.3 K-BB percentage with a 0.92 over his last 16.1 innings since June 21.

Vulture Save Option for Thursday, August 1

  • A.J. Minter (ATL): He did not pitch yesterday, but Iglesias and Jiménez did, leaving him atop our hierarchy for today’s match-up against Miami.
  • Calvin Faucher (MIA): If being contrarian, he worked the ninth during a four-run win and could receive the team’s first save chance in the post-Scott era.

American League – Game Recaps from July 31

Boston Red Sox – Navigating around a wild pitch, Zack Kelly collected his fourth win after stranding the “place” runner in the top of the tenth. He allowed a walk and recorded a strikeout during his scoreless outing before his team’s walk-off rally in the bottom of the frame.

  • Kenley Jansen tossed a scoreless ninth, issuing a walk and striking out one. He did “tweak” his back, and he’s considered day-to-day until their next game on Friday.
  • Josh Winckowski retired the side in the eighth and recorded a strikeout.
  • Lucas Sims stranded two runners despite issuing a walk during two-thirds scoreless in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Kenley Jansen | Lucas Sims | Zack Kelly

Houston Astros – Securing his 21st save, Josh Hader worked around a one-out Jared Triolo single with a strikeout and a game-ending groundout, preserving the one-run win. He threw 13 pitches (76.9 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%). He finished July with nine saves while making 12 appearances, eight scoreless with 14 strikeouts versus four walks, and a 097 WHIP through 10.1 innings.

  • Ryan Pressly navigated around two hits for a scoreless eighth and his 18th hold.
  • Bryan Abreu retired the side in the seventh, notching his 26th hold.

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

New York Yankees – Working around a lead-off Kyle Schwarber single, Clay Holmes retired Austin Hays on a flyout and induced a game-ending double play groundout by Bryce Harper for his 22nd save, preserving a one-run win and a sweep. He threw seven pitches (85.7 Strike%) with one whiff. He converted three of seven save opportunities in July and allowed at least a run in four outings.

  • Mark Leiter Jr. gave up three hits and an earned run while striking out two in the eighth, getting credit for his 16th hold.
  • Tommy Kahnle notched his seventh hold, stranding a runner and issuing a walk with a strikeout in two-thirds of the seventh.
  • Luke Weaver recorded his 16th hold, allowing two hits and an earned run during his combined inning. 

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

National League – Game Recaps from July 31

Arizona Diamondbacks – Summoned with two runners on and one out in the top of the ninth, Ryan Thompson recorded a strikeout against Harold Ramírez, intentionally walked Luis García Jr., and induced a game-ending groundout by Riley Adams for his first save.

  • Paul Sewald gets credit for his first hold despite his rough outing. It started with a lead-off walk, a leverage mortal sin, a groundout, a CJ Abrams RBI double, and two more walks, prompting his removal. Sewald finished with a hit, two earned runs, and three walks on 24 pitches (9 strikes – 37.5 Strike%). He finished July with a bloated 2.20 WHIP through 12 appearances spanning 10 innings and converted five of nine save chances, though this outing does not qualify.
  • Kevin Ginkel allowed three hits and an earned run while striking out one in the eighth.
  • A.J. Puk fired a clean seventh, striking out one.

Updated Hierarchy: Paul Sewald (hot seat) | A.J. Puk | Ryan Thompson

Atlanta Braves – Pressed into action with two runners on and two outs in the bottom of the sixth, Pierce Johnson kept the game tied despite issuing a walk with an inning-ending strikeout. He added a scoreless seventh inning and collected his fourth win when his teammates rallied for two in the top of the inning. Johnson finished with a hit and a walk while striking out two over his 1.1 scoreless innings.

  • Joe Jiménez tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and striking out two.
  • Raisel Iglesias retired the side and recorded two strikeouts in the ninth, preserving the four-run win. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s been scoreless in his last six outings but has not secured a save in the second half.

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

Colorado Rockies – Locking down his fourth save, Victor Vodnik retired the side and recorded a strikeout while preserving a one-run win over the Angels. He threw eight pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Through 11 outings in July, he converted all four save chances with 13 strikeouts versus three walks and a 0.90 WHIP across 13.1 innings.

  • Tyler Kinley notched his eighth hold with a scoreless eighth. He allowed a walk and struck out two. 

Updated Hierarchy: Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley | Justin Lawrence

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Monkey Bytes: July 31

It’s a difficult time of year with many fantasy players transitioning toward football preparations, the trade deadline, and managers providing sometimes misleading information. Doing our due diligence can reap dividends, but patience may be required, especially for those who stashed Ben Joyce for second-half saves.

Tuesday’s slate provided five reliever wins, two via bulk relief outings and two on blown saves, resulting in a win after his respective team rallied. There were more blown saves (six) than saves (four), with two by the Yankees’ bullpen, including an MLB-leading eighth of the season. Last, two games required extra innings, with the Yankees and Padres emerging victorious.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Alexis Díaz (CIN) recorded his 21st save. He gave up a hit during a scoreless ninth against the Cubs.
  • Rookie Fraser Ellard (CHW) lost his MLB debut. He issued two walks, which resulted in two earned runs, and retired one batter in the top of the eighth in Kansas City.
  • Jake Bird (COL) suffered his second loss. Taking over a tied game in the bottom of the seventh, he served up a go-ahead Jo Adell home run.
  • Sam Long (KCR) notched his first save with a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts while preserving a one-run win over the White Sox.
  • Hunter Strickland (LAA) secured his first save since 2022 with a clean ninth against the Rockies, as we planned.
  • Alex Vesia (LAD) suffered his third loss, allowing a walk, followed by a single, an intentional walk, and a walk-off hit by Donovan Solano in the bottom of the tenth.
  • Declan Cronin (MIA) allowed his only inherited runner to score, taking over for an injured Edward Cabrera in the sixth. He also absorbed his third loss and first blown save, giving up three hits, four earned runs, and two walks during his outing.
  • Michael Tonkin (NYY) worked the 11th and 12th innings, getting tagged with his second blown save but collecting his fourth win, finishing a one-run win over the Phillies.
  • Orion Kerkering (PHI) suffered his second loss, allowing the “place” runner to score on a hit and a go-ahead sacrifice fly in the top of the 12th.
  • Robert Suarez (SDP) retired the side and recorded two strikeouts in the top of the tenth against the Dodgers, then collected his sixth win courtesy of a walk-off in the bottom of the inning.
  • Tyler Alexander (TBR) logged 2.1 bulk innings en route to his fourth win. He gave up a solo home run and struck out three against Miami.

Three Takeaways

  • Re-Joyce or revolt?: While reading articles or tweets providing information about roles, it’s challenging reading between the lines, but even in this note from Sam Blum, it said Ben Joyce would get “many” of the reps for saves if the team traded Luis García. In the first save chance after the team traded its two veteran relievers atop the hierarchy, Ron Washington summoned Hunter Strickland for the ninth against the Rockies’ bottom-of-the-lineup. In this tweet, Washington said he would use a pending free agent (Strickland), Joyce, and Hans Crouse, in future save opportunities. Patience may be required, but one should avoid overreacting to this usage pattern.
  • Dodgers and fluidity: Last night’s loss marked the third time in the last 13 games Los Angeles squandered a five-run lead, which resulted in a loss. Blake Treinen allowed two solo home runs in the ninth, and Alex Vesia gave up the walk-off run in the tenth, though his manager tried removing him for Evan Phillips but could not because of the rules preventing this after a mound visit by the pitching coach. Operating without defined roles and spotty performances makes predicting who will pitch based on match-ups tough and which reliever will get the save. Since July 12, the Dodgers bullpen has a combined 6.75 ERA. Here are their Win Probability Added results in this timeframe:
  • How long will the leash be for Holmes?: It can be a dubious honor leading the majors in blown saves, but at least he’s still getting chances. Clay Holmes suffered his eighth blown save while trying to protect a one-run lead against the Phillies. He allowed a lead-off infield single, induced a groundout, gave up a single, and recorded another fielder’s choice groundout, but with two outs, he uncorked a wild pitch, scoring Johan Rojas from third base. After intentionally walking Kyle Schwarber, Trea Turner produced another infield single, loading the bases before an inning-ending groundout by Bryce Harper. There was no loud contact, but traffic on the bases for a reliever lacking swing-and-miss stuff makes situations like this difficult. Momentum has not been kind; he’s only converted two of six save chances in July with a 1.45 WHIP through 9.2 innings. Will he keep the closer role in August, or will this become another match-up-based bullpen?

Vulture Save Option for Wednesday, July 31

  • Gregory Santos (SEA): Andrés Muñoz and Yimi García have pitched in three of the previous four days.

Vulture Save Stash for Thursday, August 1

  • Pierce Johnson (ATL): If Atlanta’s high-leverage triumvirate all pitch again today in Milwaukee, it will mark consecutive outings for Raisel Iglesias, Joe Jiménez, and A.J. Minter, leaving Johnson in line for the save on Thursday. Stay tuned.

American League – Game Recaps from July 30

Kansas City Royals – Summoned with a one-run lead in the ninth, Sam Long retired the side and recorded two strikeouts for his first save. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and one whiff.

  • Hunter Harvey allowed a lead-off Nicky Lopez single, a one-out Luis Robert Jr. single, and an RBI fielder’s choice groundout before an inning-ending strikeout for his MLB-leading 28th hold.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Los Angeles Angels – With a three-run lead, Ron Washington summoned Hunter Strickland for his first save since August 1, 2022. Strickland responded with a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout against the Rockies’ 7-8-9 hitters on nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) with two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless over his last five appearances.

  • Ben Joyce notched his sixth hold, retiring the side in the eighth against the 4-5-6 lineup pocket, needing only six pitches (83.3 Strike%) with one whiff (16.7 SwStr%). This extended his scoreless streak to 16 games, spanning 20.1 innings.
  • José Quijada gave up a game-tying Ezequiel Tovar solo home run, resulting in his first blown save, and collected his first win courtesy of his team’s rally in the bottom of the inning.

Updated Hierarchy: *Ben Joyce | *Hunter Strickland | Hans Crouse

*= closer-by-committee

New York Yankees – Working two innings in the 11th and 12th, Michael Tonkin collected his fourth win and second blown save, allowing a hit, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out three.

  • Mark Leiter Jr. navigated around a hit and a walk for a scoreless tenth, stranding the “place” runner in his team debut.
  • Clay Holmes suffered his MLB-leading eighth blown save. He gave up three hits, an earned run on a wild pitch, and a walk (intentional – Kyle Schwarber) in the bottom of the ninth. He’s only converted two of his last six save chances and given up at least a run in four of his previous eight.
  • Luke Weaver notched his 15th hold, retiring the side in the eighth.
  • Tommy Kahnle fired a clean seventh, striking out one for his sixth hold.

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

National League – Game Recaps from July 30

Cincinnati Reds – Navigating around a lead-off walk with three straight outs, Alexis Díaz secured his 21st save, finishing a three-run win over the Cubs. He threw 16 pitches (9 strikes – 56.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted all four save chances in July despite allowing at least a run in three of eight outings.

  • Buck Farmer notched his first hold, firing a clean eighth and striking out two.
  • Fernando Cruz let his only inherited runner score on a wild pitch, allowed a walk, and gave up a hit during one-third of the seventh, getting credit for his 22nd hold.
  • Justin Wilson allowed an earned run and a walk while striking out one during a combined inning for his tenth hold.
  • Nick Martinez collected his fourth win as the “bulk follower,” logging four scoreless frames, scattering four hits, and striking out three.

Hierarchy remains: Alexis Díaz | Fernando Cruz | Sam Moll

Los Angeles Dodgers – Working with reduced velocity in recent outings, Alex Vesia suffered his third loss in the bottom of the tenth against the Padres. He issued Kyle Higashioka a lead-off walk and retired Luis Arraez on a sacrifice bunt, putting runners on second and third. After a mound visit, Vesia issued Jurickson Profar an intentional walk but had to remain in the game despite Dave Roberts trying to get Evan Phillips from the bullpen because of the previous mound visit. Donovan Solano delivered a walk-off RBI single instead.

  • Blake Treinen gave up two solo home runs, including a game-tying blast by Jackson Merrill, resulting in his fourth blown save in the ninth.
  • Anthony Banda secured his sixth hold, retiring the side and striking out one in the eighth.

Hierarchy: *Daniel Hudson | *Brent Honeywell | Blake Treinen 

*= closer-by-committee

New York Mets – Pressed into action with two runners on and two outs in the eighth, Edwin Díaz quelled the rally with an inning-ending strikeout and retired all three in the ninth for his first four-out save in 2024. He threw 20 pitches (70 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (15 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts and his 13th save. He’s converted six of seven save chances in July.

  • Ryne Stanek had a runner reach on an error and issued a walk during two-thirds scoreless in the eighth, securing his 16th hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | Phil Maton | Huascar Brazobán

Philadelphia Phillies – Suffering his second loss, Orion Kerkering allowed a lead-off Jazz Chisolm Jr. single and a go-ahead sacrifice fly, scoring the “place” runner in the top of the 12th. He also recorded a strikeout while throwing 12 pitches (75 Strike%) and getting two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

  • Jeff Hoffman logged two innings, spanning the 10th and 11th, giving up two hits, an unearned run, and striking out one.
  • Carlos Estévez retired the side in the ninth against the Yankees’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket on 15 pitches during his team debut.
  • José Ruiz tossed a scoreless eighth, issuing a walk and striking out two.
  • Matt Strahm was tagged with his sixth blown save, issuing two walks and serving up a go-ahead Chisolm Jr. three-run home run.
  • José Alvarado retired his only batter in the sixth for his seventh hold and stranded two runners.

Adjusted Hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | Jeff Hoffman | José Alvarado

San Diego Padres – Preserving a tied game with a clean top of the tenth, Robert Suarez collected his sixth win when his teammates produced a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. He threw 10 pitches (80 Strike%) and generated four whiffs against the Dodgers’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket.

  • Jeremiah Estrada tossed a scoreless ninth, allowing a hit and striking out two.
  • Logan Gillaspie retired the side in the eighth.
  • Adrian Morejon navigated around a hit and two walks while striking out one in a scoreless seventh.

Adjusted Hierarchy: Robert Suarez | Tanner Scott | Jason Adam

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Monkey Bytes: July 30

Monday’s slate featured 12 games, including a doubleheader, but only yielded four reliever wins and four saves. Realizing most fantasy managers are more concerned about the Trade Deadline, the recaps will be quick, and a cheat sheet will be included in today’s post instead of Three Takeaways.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Joe Mantiply (ARI) garnered his fifth win after tossing a scoreless top of the ninth with his team down by four courtesy of a five-run, walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning.
  • Craig Kimbrel (BAL) made a low-leverage appearance in Game 2’s loss. He recorded a strikeout and issued George Springer a walk, followed by a stolen base and a two-out Vladimir Guerrero Jr. RBI double. Kimbrel finished with a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one on 21 pitches (10 strikes – 47.6 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s given up at least a run in three straight games and four of his last five.
  • John Brebbia (CHW) took over with a runner on and a one-run lead in the eighth but hit a batter, issued a walk, and served up a go-ahead Bobby Witt Jr. grand slam. This resulted in Brebbia’s sixth loss and three earned runs during his one-third of an inning. The White Sox have lost 14 straight; this was the team’s 27th blown save.
  • Josh Hader (HOU) entered a tied game in the top of the ninth and suffered his sixth loss. He issued Ke’Bryan Hayes a lead-off walk, balked him to second, recorded a strikeout, issued Connor Joe a walk, and induced a flyout. Following a double steal, Hader left a sinker in the middle of the plate, resulting in a Michael A. Taylor go-ahead three-run home run. After giving up three home runs in 2023, he’s allowed six home runs on his sinker this year.
  • James McArthur (KCR) recorded his 18th save, capping a comeback win over the White Sox. He threw 10 pitches (60 Strike%) without a whiff against the 9-1-2 lineup pocket. This snapped a three-game stretch of allowing at least a run, and he converted four of five save chances in July with a 1.72 WHIP through 8.2 innings.
  • Hoby Milner (MIL) allowed a walk and recorded a strikeout while stranding the inherited runner. He collected his fourth win courtesy of a go-ahead Willy Adames home run in the bottom of the inning.
  • José Buttó (NYM) logged three innings, giving up four hits, including Ryan Jeffers’ solo home run in the ninth for his only earned run and a walk while striking out two en route to his second save. He threw 44 pitches (27 strikes – 61.4 Strike%) and produced seven whiffs (15.9 SwStr%). As a reliever, he’s recorded three wins and two saves through eight appearances with 19 strikeouts against six walks over 16.2 innings since July 2.
  • David Bednar (PIT) navigated around two hits, an earned run, and two walks for his 19th save, finishing a comeback rally over the Astros on the road. With a three-run lead, he recorded a flyout, gave up a single, issued a walk, and allowed a Jose Altuve single, loading the bases. After retiring Alex Bregman, Bednar issued Yordan Alvarez an unintentional “intentional” walk on five pitches, forcing in a run before inducing a game-ending pop-out by Yainer Diaz. Aroldis Chapman collected his fourth win, tossing a scoreless bottom of the eighth.
  • Kirby Yates (TEX) fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded one strikeout, preserving a three-run win in St. Louis for his 19th save. He threw 19 pitches (14 strikes – 73.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s converted all eight save chances in July and logged 11 appearances with 15 strikeouts against four walks through 10 innings.
  • Kyle Finnegan (WSH) suffered his fifth loss. His outing began with a missed called third strike against Alek Thomas and devolved into five earned runs on five hits, including two home runs over one-third of an inning.

Trade Deadline Primer

Most “Active” Teams Per Ken Rosenthal (The Athletic)

*In alphabetical order

  • Arizona Diamondbacks
  • Baltimore Orioles
  • Boston Red Sox
  • New York Mets
  • New York Yankees
  • San Diego Padres

Still in the mix for relievers

  • Houston Astros
  • Kansas City Royals
  • Philadelphia Phillies
  • St. Louis Cardinals

Closers in Trade Talks (Using The Athletic and MLB.com reports)

  • Tanner Scott (MIA)
  • Kyle Finnegan (WSH)
  • Pete Fairbanks (TBR)
  • Chad Green (TOR)

Potential Set-up Relievers on the Move (by team)

Chicago Cubs: Héctor Neris, Mark Leiter Jr.

Chicago White Sox: John Brebbia

Cincinnati Reds: Nick Martinez, Lucas Sims, Buck Farmer, Justin Wilson

Detroit Tigers: Shelby Miller (team option for 2025), Andrew Chafin (team option for 2025)

Los Angeles Angels: Luis García (reported deal in place by The Athletic)

Miami Marlins: Huascar Brazobán, Anthony Bender, Declan Cronin

Oakland Athletics: Lucas Erceg, Scott Alexander

Tampa Bay: Colin Poche

Washington Nationals: Dylan Floro

Potential Deadline Winners (Upgraded Leverage Role)

Chicago Cubs: Porter Hodge

Los Angeles Angels: Ben Joyce

Miami Marlins: Andrew Nardi, Calvin Faucher, Huascar Brazobán (projected committee when Scott’s moved)

Oakland Athletics: Tyler Ferguson

Tampa Bay: Colin Poche (if not traded too), Garrett Cleavinger, Hunter Bigge, Manuel Rodríguez (projected committee if Fairbanks is move)

Toronto: Zach Pop, Génesis Cabrera (projected committee if Green’s moved)

Washington: Robert Garcia

Potential Deadline Relievers in Decline (Downgraded Leverage Role)

Arizona Diamondbacks: Paul Sewald

Baltimore Orioles: Craig Kimbrel

New York Yankees: Clay Holmes

In less than 12 hours, we will have a much better idea.

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