Monkey Bytes: September 11

First, a moment of remembrance for the events of 2001. It was going to be my first day of activity as a Physical Education teacher here in Syracuse, and then my wife called to tell me what was happening with the Twin Towers. I did not let my students change for class, and our school eventually closed. It’s a day I will never forget, and I still wear my Engine 21 shirt for Captain Billy Burke. I taught and coached his niece for my school. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers to all those involved in the events on this day.

Tuesday’s full slate featured four shutouts and an extra-inning game but only yielded five reliever wins and six saves. Four of the wins recorded required two-inning outings or more, and Emilio Pagán (CIN) came through with a vulture save, though he made things interesting.

Before delving into our game recaps, fantasy managers had another closer land on the injured list:

Los Angeles Angels – Unfortunately for fantasy managers, Ben Joyce was placed on the 15-day injured list with shoulder inflammation, per Sam Blum of The Athletic. Ron Washington intimated a closer-by-committee approach would be reflected in our updated hierarchy until a save situation provides more information on who he prefers in the late innings. 

  • Updated Hierarchy: *Hunter Strickland | *José Quijada | *Brock Burke
  • *= closer-by-committee

Next, our condensed recaps cover Tuesday’s high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

Justin Martinez (ARI) fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts in a non-save appearance while completing a combined shutout. He threw 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff against Texas’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket. A.J. Puk retired the side via strikeouts in the eighth.

  • Hierarchy remains: Justin Martinez | A.J. Puk | Ryan Thompson

Jesse Chavez (ATL) took over in the second and logged three scoreless innings, earning his second win. He gave up a hit and recorded three strikeouts in his outing. 

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

Seranthony Domínguez (BAL) worked around Cedanne Rafaela’s two-out single with a game-ending flyout by Jarren Duran, closing a two-run win in Boston and recording his tenth save. Domínguez threw 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (35.7 SwStr%) while striking out two. He’s converted all nine save chances since August 10 and been scoreless in six of his last seven outings with eight strikeouts versus one walk.

  • Hierarchy remains: Seranthony Domínguez | Yennier Cano | Cionel Pérez

Porter Hodge (CHC) allowed a walk during a scoreless bottom of the ninth against the Dodgers’, preserving a three-run win and securing his fifth save. He threw 18 pitches (10 strikes – 55.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff. This extended his scoreless streak to 14 games, spanning 15 innings, during which he’s collected three wins and converted four saves with 20 strikeouts against seven walks.

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

Emilio Pagán (CIN) secured his first save of the season and preserved a combined shutout in St. Louis. His outing began with consecutive singles and a walk, but Pagán bore down by striking out the next three batters. He threw 24 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (12.5 SwStr%). 

  • Hierarchy remains: Alexis Díaz | Emilio Pagán | Fernando Cruz

Pedro Avila (CLE) entered at the bottom of the third and logged two scoreless frames while scattering two hits, collecting his sixth win in a combined shutout against the White Sox. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Emmanuel Clase | Hunter Gaddis | Cade Smith

Héctor Neris (HOU) suffered his fifth loss during the top of the 12th versus Oakland. He allowed a lead-off single, then committed a throwing error on a sacrifice bunt, resulting in the “place” runner scoring and finishing with two unearned runs on his ledger in the eventual one-run defeat. Bryan Abreu logged two clean frames and recorded five strikeouts. He threw 20 pitches (85 Strike%) and generated eight whiffs (40 SwStr%).

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

John Schreiber (KC) completed a combined shutout with a clean bottom of the ninth and two strikeouts in a non-save capacity. 

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

Evan Phillips (LAD) suffered his first loss and a fourth blown save, giving up two hits and four unearned runs at the top of the eighth. His teammates committed three errors during his outing, resulting in traffic and an elevated pitch count. He threw 25 pitches (72 Strike%) while allowing two hits and a walk with one strikeout.

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

Devin Williams navigated around Heliot Ramos’ lead-off single and a two-out walk with a game-ending strikeout, sealing the one-run win over the Giants and recording his tenth save. He threw 21 pitches (12 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in his last seven appearances and converted all five save chances with 13 strikeouts against four walks since August 28. 

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

Hogan Harris (OAK) collected his fourth win despite letting the “place” runner score in the 12th. He allowed a hit and an unearned run while striking out three during his two innings. Mason Miller retired the Astros’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket in order in the bottom of the tenth on four pitches (75 Strike%). 

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

José Alvarado (PHI) collected his second win, retiring the side in the eighth and striking out two. He threw 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%) ahead of his team’s five-run rally in the bottom of the inning. 

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

Aroldis Chapman (PIT) recorded his eighth save. He allowed three hits, including Jake Burger’s RBI single at the top of the ninth. He threw 17 pitches (13 strikes – 76.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff. It’s a tenuous time for fantasy managers; Chapman’s given up at least a run in four of his last seven games, multiple runs in two, but converted four of five save chances with a 2.54 WHIP over 6.1 innings.

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

Robert Suarez (SD) was summoned with two runners on and two outs at the bottom of the eighth. He induced an inning-ending lineout by Jorge Polanco. Suarez navigated around a two-out single for a scoreless ninth and notched his 32nd save while preserving the four-run win. He threw 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (27.8 SwStr%) with two strikeouts over his 1.1 scoreless frames. He’s converted three of four save opportunities in September.

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

Richard Lovelady (TB) suffered his sixth loss after allowing a walk and a double before his removal during a tied game at the bottom of the eighth. Both runners scored, putting two earned runs on his line during his two-thirds combined innings. Edwin Uceta entered with two runners on and one out, letting both score on Cal Stevenson’s two-RBI single. After recording a strikeout, he allowed an RBI single and Trea Turner’s two-run home run, followed by Bryce Harper’s double, and ended with hitting Nick Castellanos with a pitch. Uceta only recorded one out while yielding four hits and three earned runs.

  • Hierarchy remains: *Manuel Rodríguez | *Edwin Uceta | *Garrett Cleavinger
  • *=  closer-by-committee

Vulture Save Option for Wednesday, September 11

  • David Bednar (PIT): Chapman and Santana have appeared in back-to-back games in three times in the previous four days. 

Vulture Save Stash for Thursday, September 12

  • Bryan Abreu (HOU): If Hader pitches today, it will be consecutive outings and Abreu should be off after logging two dominant innings last night. 

Tuesday’s Takeaway

Suarez sticks with the four-seam fastball: Despite recent struggles with traffic, Robert Suarez threw 14 four-seam fastballs among his 18 pitches during a four-out save against Seattle. He allowed one hit, a two-out Victor Robles single, and recorded two strikeouts. His success for the remainder of the season and the playoffs will rely on location with sequencing. He cannot issue walks in save situations in the postseason since players can sit on the fastball and hunt mistakes. He lowered his second-half WHIP to 1.23 after last night’s save, and here’s a look at his pitch illustrator with the pitch description:

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

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast

Monkey Bytes: September 10

Monday’s nine games yielded four reliever wins, though one was accompanied by a blown save (Carlos Estévez). Six pitchers secured saves, including two three-inning saves (José Suarez and Josh Winckowski). The Díaz brothers also recorded saves and are featured in today’s three takeaways below.

Our condensed game recaps cover yesterday’s slate’s high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

Josh Winckowski (BOS) recorded his second save while tossing three innings in an eventual nine-run win. He allowed two hits, including Anthony Santander’s solo home run, and a walk with strikeouts in his outing. He threw 45 pitches (28 strikes – 62.2 Strike%) and induced four whiffs.

  • Hierarchy remains: Kenley Jansen | Justin Slaten | Josh Winckowski

Keegan Thompson (CHC) stranded one of three runners and allowed two hits over 1.2 scoreless innings while striking out one. He collected his second win, throwing 22 pitches (15 strikes – 68.2 Strike%) and induced one whiff after taking over during the bottom of the fifth inning against the Dodgers. 

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

Alexis Díaz (CIN) preserved a 1-0 win in Atlanta while recording his 27th save. He retired the 1-2-3 hitters on 12 pitches (7 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) with two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He’s recorded five clean outings in September with a win and three saves. He’s pitched in four of the previous five days. 

  • Updated Hierarchy: Alexis Díaz | Emilio Pagán | Fernando Cruz

Emmanuel Clase (CLE) finished a two-run win over the White Sox with a scoreless ninth for his 43rd save. He threw 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts. He’s converted 30 consecutive save chances since May 20 and has posted 34 strikeouts against six walks over his last 43 innings. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Emmanuel Clase | Hunter Gaddis | Cade Smith

James McArthur (KC) took over with a one-run lead at the bottom of the seventh. He suffered his seventh loss and a seventh blown save. He allowed three hits, including Austin Wells’ three-run home run, four earned runs, and a walk without recording an out.

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

Edwin Díaz (NYM) secured his 17th save with a scoreless ninth, working around a hit and striking out one during a one-run win in Toronto. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. This outing extended his scoreless streak to seven games, during which he’s converted three saves with 14 strikeouts versus one walk. Ryne Stanek was awarded his seventh win after striking out the side in the bottom of the eighth. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Edwin Díaz | Phil Maton | Reed Garrett

Jake Cousins (NYY) took over in the seventh and tossed a scoreless inning, issuing a walk and recording two strikeouts. He collected his second win courtesy of a four-run rally at the bottom of the frame. Luke Weaver notched his 22nd hold with a scoreless eighth. He allowed a hit and a walk while striking out two on 23 pitches (12 strikes – 52.2 Strike%) with three whiffs. However, Tommy Kahnle was warming up for the ninth if there was a save chance. It appears that creativity in safe situations has only just begun.

  • Hierarchy remains: *Luke Weaver | *Tommy Kahnle | Jake Cousins
  • *= closer-by-committee

Carlos Estévez (PHI) collected his fourth win and a fifth blown save, courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the frame. He finished with two hits and the earned run on Brandon Lowe’s game-tying solo home run leading off the ninth. Estévez threw 27 pitches (17 strikes – 63 Strike%) with two whiffs. This snapped his six-game scoreless streak, but he’s converted four of five saves and won three of four decisions since his acquisition. 

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

Aroldis Chapman (PIT) allowed a lead-off single at the top of the ninth, issued a one-out walk, and gave up Cristian Pache’s RBI double before inducing a game-ending flyout, closing out a one-run margin for his seventh save. Chapman threw 23 pitches (15 strikes – 65.2 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (13 SwStr%). He’s allowed at least a run in consecutive outings. Dennis Santana fired a clean eighth and recorded two strikeouts for his fifth hold. This extended his scoreless streak to 14 games, spanning 17 innings with 18 strikeouts versus two walks.

  • Hierarchy remains: *Aroldis Chapman | *Dennis Santana | Colin Holderman
  • *= closer-by-committee

Garrett Cleavinger (TB) suffered his fourth loss. He allowed three hits, including Kody Clemens’ walk-off RBI single, resulting in his fourth loss. Manuel Rodríguez recorded 1.1 clean frames and one strikeout. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s been scoreless in six of his last seven but has not recorded a save since August 27.

  • Hierarchy remains: *Manuel Rodríguez | *Edwin Uceta | *Garrett Cleavinger
  • *=  closer-by-committee

Tommy Nance (TOR) entered with a one-run lead at the top of the eighth. However, he struggled with his command, resulting in his first loss and a blown save. He issued a lead-off wall, a leverage mortal sin, allowed a single, and walked the bases loaded before scoring a runner on a wild pitch. After recording a strikeout, a passed ball scored the game-winning run from third. Nance finished with a hit, two earned runs, and two walks while striking out two.

  • Hierarchy remains: Chad Green | Génesis Cabrera | Erik Swanson

Vulture Save Stashes for Tuesday, September 10

  • Emilio Pagán (CIN): Alexis Díaz has appeared four times in the last five days. The only caveat is that the Reds bridge leaders have not followed a consistent pattern, which means Tony Santillan or even Fernando Cruz could get the ninth based on lineup lanes. 
  • Ryne Stanek (NYM): Edwin Díaz has pitched in three of the last four and four of the last six. If the Mets can, a night off may benefit the closer. Stanek struck out the side during his win last night. 
  • Dennis Santana (PIT): Chapman’s allowed five runs in his last two outings and thrown 53 pitches over the last three days. 

Vulture Save Stash for Wednesday, September 11

Tonight’s usage patterns will determine this. 

Three Takeaways

Edwin’s in-season adjustments: After a hanging slider resulted in a sixth blown save for Edwin Díaz in Arizona on August 28, he’s leaned into his four-seam fastball. Over his last seven games, he’s completely flipped the script on his pitch usage patterns: 

Since August 29, he’s thrown 100 pitches, 76 being four-seam fastballs. He only allowed two hits and a walk while striking out 14 of 25 batters faced (52 K-BB%) with a 23 percent swinging strike rate and a minuscule 0.43 WHIP his last seven innings. This represents a small sample, but here are his splits by pitch in it: 

  • Four-seam fastball: 76 percent usage, 11 strikeouts, one walk, 18.4 swinging strike percentage, 41.2 percent whiff rate, and a .153 expected weighted on-base average (xwOBA)
  • Slider: 24 percent usage, three strikeouts, 37.5 swinging strike percentage, 64.3 percent whiff rate, and a .050 xwOBA

His continued success will be pivotal for his team’s pursuit of a postseason berth. 

Alexis and four-seam velocity: The good news is that Alexis Díaz has recorded a win and converted three saves in five clean appearances in September. However, when viewing his four-seam fastball results by velocity, it explains his struggles with traffic since the second half of last year. First, his velocity chart from Fangraphs: 

Taking this further on Statcast, this chart illustrates his outcomes and underlying data when his four-seam fastball is above 95 m.p.h. versus below: 

Based on the recent trends, this hot streak may not carry over into next season, which leaves fantasy managers wondering how reliable he will be moving forward. 

Muñoz and health: Andrés Muñoz dealt with back issues earlier this season and recently, has been nursing some elbow soreness. He’s only made two appearances since August 31, allowing a home run in each game. Over his last seven games, he’s allowed four of his six home runs this season, suffering three losses and only converted one of three save opportunities, producing a 1.75 WHIP his last 6.1 innings. Can a reliever who relies on his slider push through elbow soreness while his team makes a last ditch effort the playoffs? He’s given up two home runs on his slider and his four-seam fastball since August 15 and his underlying data illustrates how pivotal his slider will be over the last three weeks:

Stay tuned and monitor his slider.

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 9

Sunday’s full slate featured seven wins by relievers and seven secured saves. Raisel Iglesias collected his fifth win on a walk-off but lost his MLB-leading scoreless game streak, allowing an unearned run at the top of the tenth. Porter Hodge closed out a one-run victory over the Yankees, preventing a sweep and keeping his team’s slim playoff pursuit intact. Our condensed game recaps cover the high-leverage events of interest from yesterday’s contests.

Closer CliffsNotes

Kevin Ginkel (ARI) stranded two runners while retiring his only batter in the bottom of the fifth via strikeout. He was awarded his eighth win as a result. A.J. Puk logged two scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out two.

  • Hierarchy remains: Justin Martinez | A.J. Puk | Ryan Thompson

Raisel Iglesias (ATL) collected his fifth win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. He tossed two innings, giving up two hits, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out one. This snapped his 21-game scoreless streak, but he’s not allowed an earned run since June 16 and produced 45 strikeouts versus six walks over his last 30 games, converting 13 of 14 save opportunities. 

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

Zack Kelly (BOS) took over a tied game at the top of the ninth and suffered his third loss, allowing five hits, five earned runs, and a walk while recording one out.

  • Hierarchy remains: Kenley Jansen | Justin Slaten | Josh Winckowski

Porter Hodge (CHC) recorded his fourth save. He allowed a walk and recorded a strikeout against the Yankees, helping his team avoid a sweep. He threw 16 pitches (50 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (25 SwStr%). This extended his scoreless streak to 13 games, spanning 14 innings, during which he’s collected three wins and converted three saves with 20 strikeouts versus six walks. 

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

Justin Anderson (CHW) tossed a scoreless bottom of the ninth, working around Masataka Yoshida’s two-out double with a game-ending strikeout, capping a five-run rally. Fraser Ellard collected his second win, retiring both batters in the eighth, keeping the game tied.

  • Updated Hierarchy: Justin Anderson | Prelander Berroa | Enyel De Los Santos

Alexis Díaz (CIN) shut the door on his 26th save. He fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts in a two-run win over the Mets. He threw 17 pitches (10 strikes – 58.8 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless through all four appearances in September, with a win and two saves. Buck Farmer collected his third win, tossing a clean eighth and striking out two ahead of his team’s two-run rally in the ninth.

  • Hierarchy remains: Alexis Díaz | Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan

Tyler Kinley (COL) nailed down his 11th save, firing a clean bottom of the ninth and striking out one in Milwaukee. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (33.3 SwStr%). He’s converted all five save chances since August 26 and has been scoreless in six of his last seven appearances. 

  • Updated Hierarchy: *Tyler Kinley | *Victor Vodnik | Angel Chivilli
  • *= closer-by-committee

Josh Hader (HOU) allowed Eugenio Suárez’s solo home run and a walk before inducing a flyout and an inning-ending double play groundout in his first appearance in September in a non-save capacity. He last recorded a save on August 29 and has given up a home run in his last two outings.

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

Lucas Erceg (KC) notched his 11th save and completed the combined shutout while working around Chrisitan Vazquez’s lead-off single by retiring the next three batters. He threw 16 pitches (9 strikes – 56.3 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%) with one strikeout in his outing. He’s been scoreless over his last three appearances, recording a save in each.

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

Phil Maton (NYM) hit lead-off batter Spencer Steer, allowed a Ty France single, and induced a groundout, moving both runners into scoring position. Santiago Espinal produced a two-RBI double, handing Maton his third loss. He finished two-thirds of the ninth with two hits and two earned runs while striking out one. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Edwin Díaz | Phil Maton | Reed Garrett

Trent Thornton (SEA) took over for an injured Luis Castillo and earned his fourth win. He tossed two scoreless frames while giving up a hit and striking out two between the fourth and fifth innings. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Andrés Muñoz | Collin Snider | Austin Voth

Ryan Walker (SF) entered at the bottom of the eighth with one out and picked off the runner at first base, then induced an inning-ending groundout, preserving the one-run lead. He returned for the ninth, retiring the side for his seventh save. He recorded five outs against four batters faced on 17 pitches (14 strikes – 82.4 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s converted all seven save chances since August 10 and allowed one unearned run across 16 outings since July 30 with 30 strikeouts against three walks through 18.2 innings. 

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

Edwin Uceta (TB) recorded consecutive Eloy Jiménez and Anthony Santander strikeouts, quelling the threat at the bottom of the eighth. He returned for the ninth and navigated around a hit and a walk with two more strikeouts while securing his second save. He threw 34 pitches (19 strikes – 55.9 Strike%) and produced seven whiffs (20.6 SwStr%). Since August 3, he’s been scoreless in 12 of 13 appearances with 26 strikeouts against three walks over 16.1 innings.

  • Hierarchy remains: *Manuel Rodríguez | *Edwin Uceta | *Garrett Cleavinger
  • *=  closer-by-committee

Kirby Yates (TEX) navigated around a two-out walk for a scoreless ninth and his 29th save. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%). He’s converted eight saves since August 19 and has been scoreless in nine of ten outings with 13 strikeouts versus three walks over 9.1 innings. 

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

Zach Pop (TOR) suffered his fourth loss, allowing two hits, two unearned runs, and two walks (both intentional), culminating in a walk-off fielder’s choice grounder in the bottom of the 11th in Atlanta. He did work a scoreless tenth. Chad Green allowed two hits, and Matt Olsen’s game-tying sacrifice fly resulted in his third blown save, which was all in his last three outings.

  • Hierarchy remains: Chad Green | Génesis Cabrera | Erik Swanson

Vulture Save Stashes for Monday, September 9

  • John Schreiber (KC): Erceg pitched on Sunday and has appeared in back-to-back games. 
  • Emilio Pagán (CIN): Díaz has pitched in three of the last four. 
  • Pierce Johnson (ATL): Iglesias logged two innings on 22 pitches in Sunday’s win. If he pitches again tonight, this carries over to tomorrow.

Vulture Save Stash for Tuesday, September 10

  • Keegan Thompson (CHC): If Hodge pitches today, it will be back-to-back outings. However, this recommendation may change based on the bridge to him.

What to Watch For

Arizona Diamondbacks – Since August 5, Justin Martinez has appeared in 14 games and produced 14 finished games, affirming his role as the closer. However, an inflated batting average on balls in play (.417) despite a 65.8 percent contact rate allowed fuels his 1.64 WHIP in those 14.2 innings. He’s converted all eight save chances with 22 strikeouts versus eight walks (20.3 K-BB%) and a 3.21 SIERA. How he fares down the stretch may determine how far the Diamondbacks can go in the playoffs. 

Boston Red Sox – How engaged will Kenley Jansen remain if the Red Sox continue drifting in the Wild Card race? He’s converted three of four save chances since August 19 but has allowed at least a run in four of seven outings, including two home runs. He’s had multiple back issues and, most recently, lat soreness. Will he pitch the last seven to ten games as a pending free agent? 

Colorado Rockies – Did Bud Black side with momentum? Although Victor Vodnik was activated on Sunday, he was not used during the high-leverage innings during a three-run win in Milwaukee. Tyler Kinley recorded his 11th save and fifth since August 26. He did meltdown in an appearance against the Marlins, allowing four earned runs without recording an out. The team may ease Vodnik into save situations, but based on ratio and underlying data, Kinley may be best suited for the closer role through the end of the season. 

Chicago White Sox – The biggest question is, will the team post another save? It’s been since August 16 when Chad Kuhl closed out a one-run win in Houston. It appears Justin Anderson will be the preferred save option, but with 2025 on the horizon, finding out what Prelander Berroa and Jairo Iriarte could do in save situations could prove beneficial. 

Detroit Tigers – Deploying a match-up-based approach at times, it’s clear Jason Foley and Tyler Holton will be the preferred options for saves over the last three weeks. The team has been encouraged by Ricky Vanasco’s recent outings. However, will the Tigers remain out of the free-agent market for a bonafide ninth-inning option in 2025? Or a stronger leverage ladder if it plans on competing for the division? 

Los Angeles Dodgers – Many do not like labels like the highest-leveraged reliever (HLR), but Michael Kopech has been working against lineup pockets, not being reserved for the ninth inning. This keeps Evan Phillips and other Dodger relievers in play for ancillary saves. 

Miami Marlins – With Calvin Faucher being placed on the 15-day injured list with a shoulder impingement, Jesús Tinoco and other Marlins relievers open the door for save chances. He worked the ninth during the team’s last win and sits atop our adjusted hierarchy. Since joining Miami, he’s recorded a win and five holds with 24 strikeouts against four walks (30.3 K-BB%) in 15 games, spanning 18.1 innings. His slider generates a 17 percent swinging strike rate. Declan Cronin, Anthony Bender, and John McMillon will also work high-leverage events for Miami. 

Minnesota Twins – Jhoan Durán and Griffin Jax struggled during an eventual loss in Kansas City over the weekend. They remain the preferred options, but keep tabs on how the team uses Louie Varland these last three weeks. He could be a sneaky play for strikeouts in American League-only formats while recording vulture wins or saves. He’s made nine appearances as a reliever in his career, posting 22 strikeouts against two walks (26.3 K-BB%) with a 0.97 WHIP across 18.2 innings.

New York Yankees – Luke Weaver recorded his first career save while completing a combined shutout last Friday against the Cubs. He also was warming up in case he was needed on Saturday. Aaron Boone said he could receive more save opportunities but would not name him the closer. This leaves the door open for Clay Holmes, the manager’s preferred option. Whether this works remains open for debate. In the short term, it should be Weaver, but this may be fluid sooner than fantasy managers prefer. 

Pittsburgh Pirates – It’s been one step forward and two steps back this season for David Bednar. He struggled in a non-save appearance this weekend, allowing three walks (one intentional) and an earned run on a sacrifice fly at the top of the ninth against Washington in Game 1 on Saturday. Aroldis Chapman suffered his fifth loss and a fifth blown save in Game 2. He allowed four hits, four earned runs, and a walk while striking out two in two-thirds of the ninth. Flying below the radar, Dennis Santana has been scoreless in his last 13 appearances since August 8 with a win, a save, and three holds. He’s only allowed three hits and two walks (0.313 WHIP) while recording 16 strikeouts across 16 innings. 

San Francisco Giants – While Ryan Walker thrives as the closer, how will the Giants handle a disgruntled and displaced Camilo Doval this off-season? Trading a reliever at his lowest value is tough, but his age and potential may make him an alluring target for teams without a closer. This will be a difficult needle for the organization to thread, and Doval’s better outings would enhance his chances of getting save opportunities in 2025. What team may not be determined until next spring? Stay tuned. 

Tampa Bay Rays – When Pete Fairbanks is sidelined, there’s not clear closer for this franchise in recent years. Manuel Rodríguez had been the preferred option, with Edwin Uceta operating as the HLR. This remains a fluid leverage ladder, and the designation will not change until next season. Plan accordingly. 

Toronto Blue Jays – Things were going great. Chad Green converted his first 16 save chances through August 29, but September has been different. He’s suffered three straight blown saves and been tagged with two losses over his last three outings. It’s not a matter of velocity but rather fatigue from a workload perspective. He missed most of the previous two seasons after undergoing surgery and with 47.1 innings under his belt, could be missing spots. His inflated batting average on balls in play will subside, and he remains the team’s best option for saves, but those protecting ratios may prefer him on their bench moving forward. 

Washington Nationals – It’s been a tale of two halves for Kyle Finnegan. Before the All-Star break, he logged 40.1 innings with 42 strikeouts versus 13 walks (18 K-BB%) with a 1.02 WHIP and a .256 weighted on-base average (wOBA). In the second half, he’s only pitched 16.2 innings with 13 strikeouts against seven walks (7.5 K-BB%), a 1.98 WHIP, and a .405 wOBA. He’s converted 36 of 41 saves, but which iteration will show up in 2025?

Those seeking full game recaps should surf the team pages; they’ve all been updated with Sunday’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 8

Saturday’s slate featured 16 games, courtesy of a doubleheader between Washington and Pittsburgh. Kyle Finnegan saved both games during a sweep, with relievers securing nine saves in yesterday’s action. Eight relievers also recorded wins, including three logging three innings or more. Our condensed game recaps cover the high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

Kenley Jansen (BOS) took the mound with a two-run lead at the top of the ninth. He recorded his 26th save with a clean outing and recorded a strikeout. He threw seven pitches (85.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (42.9 SwStr%). This marked his first save of September. 

  • Updated Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Justin Slaten | Josh Winckowski

Jason Foley (DET) worked around a single with a fielder’s choice groundout and a game-ending strikeout, securing his 21st save. He threw ten pitches (80 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted five saves and allowed one unearned run over his last 11 appearances since August 15 with a 0.75 WHIP in 9.1 innings.

  • Hierarchy remains: *Jason Foley | *Tyler Holton | Shelby Miller
  • *= closer-by-committee

Lucas Erceg (KC) shut the door on his tenth save, retiring the side and recording one strikeout while preserving a two-run win over Minnesota. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He’s made consecutive clean appearances and converted seven of nine save chances since the trade deadline. Daniel Lynch IV collected his first win, tossing three scoreless frames. He allowed a hit and recorded four strikeouts on 33 pitches (24 strikes – 72.7 Strike%) with seven whiffs (21.9 SwStr%). 

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

Jesús Tinoco (MIA) retired the side against Philadelphia, finishing a four-run win. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in 13 of 15 appearances since his acquisition, with 24 strikeouts against four walks across 18.1 innings. This game’s bullpen structure may be the template moving forward, putting Tinoco in line for potential saves in the interim.

  • Updated Hierarchy: *Jesús Tinoco | *Declan Cronin | *John McMillon
  • *= closer-by-committee

Devin Williams (MIL) fired a clean top of the ninth while striking out the side against the Rockies, locking down his ninth save. He threw 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and generated seven whiffs (63.6 SwStr%) in a dominating performance. He’s logged three consecutive clean appearances this month with seven strikeouts (77.8 Strike%). 

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

Jhoan Durán (MIN) could not preserve the shutout. He gave up a one-out single, hit a batter, and Kyle Isbel’s RBI single, prompting his removal. It was speculated that he was summoned against the bottom of the lineup to avoid Bobby Witt Jr.’s lineup pocket. Griffin Jax took over with two runners on and one out, allowing Tommy Pham’s RBI single and a go-ahead Witt Jr. RBI single. All told, Durán finished with two hits against and three earned runs in one-third of an inning, while Jax yielded three hits and an earned run in two-thirds of the eighth. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands

Edwin Díaz (NYM) navigated around a lead-off hit-by-pitch and a one-out Ty Francie single with a strikeout and a game-ending pop-out in a non-save capacity. He threw 16 pitches (56.3 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%). This extended his scoreless streak to six games, and he’s racked up 13 strikeouts versus one walk but last recorded a save on September 1.

  • Hierarchy remains: Edwin Díaz | Phil Maton | Reed Garrett

Nestor Cortes (NYY) took the baton from Clarke Schmidt, logging 4.1 scoreless frames for his ninth win. He allowed a walk and recorded three strikeouts on 48 pitches (33 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) with six whiffs (12.5 SwStr%). During the eighth, Clay Holmes was warming. Luke Weaver was ready if necessary during the ninth. 

  • Hierarchy remains: *Luke Weaver | *Tommy Kahnle | *Jake Cousins
  • *= closer-by-committee

David Bednar (PIT) issued three walks (one intentional) and allowed an earned run on a sacrifice fly at the top of the ninth against Washington during an eventual loss in Game 1. He threw 25 pitches (44 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. Aroldis Chapman could not preserve a split in Game 2. He allowed four hits, four earned runs, and a walk while striking out two in two-thirds of the ninth. Connor Joe dropped a potential game-ending catch, resulting in two runs and ceding the lead. Chapman threw 30 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced three whiffs. He suffered his fifth loss and a fifth blown save.

  • Updated Hierarchy: *Aroldis Chapman | *Dennis Santana | Colin Holderman
  • *= closer-by-committee

Ryan Walker (SF) recorded a scoreless ninth and sixth save, preserving a three-run win in San Diego. He threw ten pitches (60 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s converted all six save chances since August 10 and has been scoreless over his last seven games with 16 strikeouts against one walk.

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

Ryan Helsley (STL) worked around a two-out single for his MLB-leading 43rd save with three strikeouts while preserving a combined shutout of Seattle. He threw 16 pitches (15 strikes – 93.8 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (31.3 SwStr%). He’s allowed an unearned run over his last 12 innings since August 7 while converting eight of nine save opportunities with 16 strikeouts versus three walks. Andrew Kittredge collected his fourth win, navigating around a hit and a walk with one strikeout in a scoreless eighth.

  • Hierarchy remains: Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | JoJo Romero

Kirby Yates (TEX) retired the side and recorded one strikeout while closing out his 28th save during a two-run win over the Angels. He threw 12 pitches (7 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted all seven save chances and collected two wins since August 19 with scoreless outings in eight of nine games. José Leclerc collected his sixth win, retiring both batters, one via strikeout in the seventh.

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

Kyle Finnegan (WSH) preserved both games during a doubleheader sweep in Pittsburgh, recording his 35th and 36th saves. During his two innings, he allowed a combined three hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two strikeouts. He threw 42 pitches (28 strikes – 66.7 Strike%) and induced four whiffs. He’s converted six of seven save chances since August 18.

  • Updated Hierarchy: Kyle Finnegan | Derek Law | Jose Ferrer

Vulture Save Options for Sunday, September 8

  • Phil Maton (NYM): Díaz has made consecutive appearances and three in the last four days. 
  • Dennis Santana (PIT): Chapman threw 30 pitches during his blown save in Game 2 yesterday.
  • Tyler Holton (DET): Foley has worked in back-to-back games in three of the previous four. If Holton opens, pivot to Ricky Vanasco. 

Vulture Save Stashes for Monday, September 9

  • John Schreiber (KC): If Erceg pitches on Sunday, it will be consecutive outings. 
  • Cole Sands (MIN): If Durán and Jax pitch today, it will be back-to-back games. 

Three Takeaways

Durán in the eighth inning?: It happens occasionally but may be a production issue against divisional rivals. Jhoan Durán opened the eighth with a 2-0 lead, facing the Royals’ 6-7-8 lineup pocket. The Twins broadcast speculated this usage pattern was to avoid him facing Bobby Witt Jr. However, after allowing a one-out single, hitting a batter, and an RBI single, he was replaced by Griffin Jax with the lineup turning over. Through five appearances against Kansas City, Durán has allowed nine hits across 3.2 innings, seven runs (four earned), and a 2.727 WHIP. He’s also struggled versus Cleveland. The Guardians have produced four hits and four earned runs in 2.2 innings over three games, resulting in a 2.25 WHIP by Durán facing them. Fantasy managers must monitor his outings down the stretch because getting him right for the postseason will be a priority. He’s had his four-game scoreless snapped in Saturday’s loss and has allowed multiple runs in three of his last seven contests. 

Tinoco time in Miami?: In case you missed it, in an avalanche of roster moves on Saturday, Miami placed Calvin Faucher (shoulder impingement) on the 15-day injured list before its game versus Philadelphia. Although it was a non-save appearance, Jesús Tinoco closed out the four-run win. This usage pattern indicates he could be in line for the primary save share over the next two weeks. Since joining Miami, he’s recorded a win and five holds with 24 strikeouts against four walks (30.3 K-BB%) in 15 games, spanning 18.1 innings. His slider generates a 17 percent swinging strike rate, and the broadcast intimated that he could receive future save chances. This will be a difficult window for the Marlins, but this scoring period’s schedule yields three games at Pittsburgh and four at Washington before a stretch of three straight series against playoff teams. 

Jansen decides he’s ready: It was announced before Saturday’s game that Kenley Jansen would be available, and he secured his 26th save with a clean ninth, which needed only seven cutters. His interest in pitching may align with the team’s chances for the postseason. He’s dealt with multiple minor injury issues throughout the season, making it tough to predict when he will pitch and, more importantly, pitch well. Fantasy managers should monitor the usage patterns of relievers before the ninth in case he’s shut down, which also happened last season. Justin Slaten notched his 12th hold with a clean eighth and recorded two strikeouts in last night’s game. Josh Winckowski recorded his first save of 2024 on Saturday. Stashing Slaten could prove beneficial over the last three weeks from a fantasy lens. One hopes Liam Hendriks can return this season, but he may not receive a save chance, but it’s possible. Stay tuned.

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 7

One game was postponed on Friday, leaving the slate one short of being full. Washington and Pittsburgh will play a split doubleheader later today. Three relievers recorded wins, including one in extra innings on Oakland’s walk-off in the 13th against Detroit. Six saves were secured, though one was a surprise in Boston, segue alert.

Roster Notes and Injury Updates

Boston Red Sox – With Kenley Jansen being unavailable with lat soreness, it’s unfortunate timing for Liam Hendriks. He suffered a slight setback when he could not appear on consecutive days during his rehab assignment. He still believes he will pitch this season, but the window’s getting shorter.

Colorado Rockies – Victor Vodnik fired a clean inning in his first rehab outing for Double-A Hartford last night. He recorded two strikeouts while throwing 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%).

Minnesota Twins – The team announced that Louie Varland will enter the bullpen for the stretch run. He’s made nine appearances as a reliever in his career, posting 22 strikeouts against two walks (26.3 K-BB%) with a 0.97 WHIP across 18.2 innings.

New York Yankees – Per Bryan Hoch, Ian Hamilton will be activated before Saturday’s game. He should be eased into high-leverage events but become a factor for save chances based on performance moving forward. 

Seattle Mariners – Gregory Santos hit 96 m.p.h. on the radar during his rehab outing last night. He allowed a soft-contact single and recorded a strikeout on 15 pitches (60 Strike%).

Next, our condensed recaps cover Friday’s high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

Raisel Iglesias (ATL) recorded his 31st save, finishing a two-run win over Toronto. He allowed consecutive hits with two outs before a game-ending strikeout of George Springer. Iglesias threw 15 pitches (80 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%) while striking out three in his outing. His major league-leading scoreless streak extends to 24.1 innings over his last 21 games. He’s converted ten of 11 save chances with 31 strikeouts versus three walks and posted a 0.37 WHIP in the streak. 

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

Seranthony Domínguez (BAL) posted his ninth save, tossing 1.1 scoreless innings while preserving a combined shutout of the Rays. He allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts on 28 pitches (17 strikes – 60.7 Strike%) with six whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). He’s converted all eight save chances since August 10 with 13 strikeouts against three walks in ten outings spanning 9.1 innings. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Seranthony Domínguez | Yennier Cano | Cionel Pérez

Josh Winckowski (BOS) retired the side and recorded his first save of the season. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. This marks his first save since August 23, 2023. 

  • Updated Hierarchy: *Kenley Jansen | *Chris Martin | *Josh Winckowski

Matt Foster (CHW) issued a walk and gave up Cedanne Rafaela’s go-ahead two-run home run, resulting in his first loss in the bottom of the seventh in Boston.

  • Hierarchy remains: *Justin Anderson | *Prelander Berroa | *Enyel De Los Santos
  • *= closer-by-committee

Justin Wilson (CIN) suffered his fifth loss, allowing Mark Vientos’ walk-off two-run home run at the bottom of the tenth. Alexis Díaz fired a clean ninth and recorded a strikeout. This marks the brothers’ first appearance in the same game at any level. 

  • Hierarchy remains: Alexis Díaz | Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan

Emmanuel Clase (CLE) locked down his 42nd with a clean ninth and one strikeout against the Dodgers. He threw seven pitches (85.7 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (28.6 SwStr%) while facing the 5-6-7 lineup pocket. He’s been scoreless in 11 of his last 12 appearances and converted 29 consecutive save opportunities since May 20 with a 0.69 WHIP through 42 innings.

  • Hierarchy remains: Emmanuel Clase | Hunter Gaddis | Cade Smith

Tyler Kinley (COL) notched his tenth save while preserving a one-run win in Milwaukee. He gave up a one-out walk, followed by a pinch-runner stealing second, then induced a Rhys Hoskins flyout with Brenton Doyle throwing out the runner at third for a game-ending double play. Kinley threw 17 pitches (9 strikes – 52.9 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in five of his last six outings and converted his last four saves.

  • Hierarchy remains: Tyler Kinley | Angel Chivilli | Justin Lawrence

Beau Brieske (DET) gave up Seth Brown’s one-out walk-off RBI single, resulting in his fourth loss and first blown save in the bottom of the 13th in Oakland. Brieske worked 1.1 innings, giving up two hits, two unearned runs, and a walk while striking out one.

  • Hierarchy remains: *Jason Foley | *Tyler Holton | Shelby Miller
  • *= closer-by-committee

Aaron Ashby (MIL) logged three scoreless innings during his team’s loss. He allowed a hit and recorded four strikeouts against the Rockies. He threw 38 pitches (28 strikes – 73.7 Strike%) and generated eight whiffs (21.1 SwStr%). Since his recall on August 25, he’s been scoreless through five relief outings, spanning 11 innings with 13 strikeouts against two walks and a 0.46 WHIP. 

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

José Buttó (NYM) collected his seventh win when Mark Vientos launched a walk-off two-run home run after tossing a clean top of the tenth. Edwin Díaz kept the game tied, firing a clean ninth and striking out the side. He threw 14 pitches (64.3 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). He’s racked up five straight scoreless outings with 12 strikeouts against one walk and converted two saves over his last five innings.

  • Hierarchy remains: Edwin Díaz | Phil Maton | Reed Garrett

Luke Weaver (NYY) recorded his first major league save while completing a combined shutout against the Cubs. He worked around a two-out walk with a game-ending groundout against the Cubs. He threw 25 pitches (64 Strike%) and included three whiffs (12 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts. He’s been scoreless in nine of ten appearances since August 16 with 11 strikeouts against five walks through 9.2 innings. After the outing, Aaron Boone said Weaver “could” see more save chances down the stretch. 

  • Hierarchy remains: *Luke Weaver | *Tommy Kahnle | *Jake Cousins

Grant Holman (OAK) collected his first win on a walk-off hit in the bottom of the 13th. He logged two innings, giving up a hit, an unearned run, and two walks while striking out one. Mason Miller fired a clean ninth, striking out the side, but let the “place” runner score in the top of the tenth. His line was one hit allowed and one unearned run with four strikeouts on 30 pitches (70 Strike%) with eight whiffs (26.7 SwStr%). 

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

Vulture Save Options for Saturday, September 7

  • Tanner Scott (SD): Although he’s shared the same workload as Robert Suarez, Scott’s pitch count and durability make him the pivot for the save chance in this match-up.
  • Pierce Johnson (ATL): Iglesias and Jiménez pitched three of the previous four days. If they pitch again today, you will still have Johnson for tomorrow’s vulture save opportunity. 
  • Yennier Cano (BAL): Dominguez threw 28 pitches during his four-out save. 
  • Emilio Pagán (CIN): Díaz and Santillan have appeared in back-to-back games. 

Vulture Save Stash for Sunday, September 8

  • Phil Maton (NYM): If Díaz pitches today, it will be consecutive appearances and three in the last four days.

Three Takeaways

DreamWeaver: This may not be the answer for the entirety of the postseason, but Luke Weaver recorded his first career save, sealing a combined shutout of the Cubs on the road. As this chart indicates, he did benefit from two called strikes:

When viewing his arsenal, one can see that his change-up represents the difference-maker during high-leverage events. It’s produced a 32.2 K-BB percentage, a 21.3 percent swinging strike rate, and a .223 weighted on-base average (wOBA). Although Aaron Boone was non-committal about the closer role going forward, he did say Weaver could see more save chances. Monitor the usage patterns closely this weekend and over the last three weeks. 

Jansen’s lat: His recent outcomes have not helped fantasy managers, but it’s worse not seeing the closer warming for the save chance with his team ahead by three runs. After last night’s game, Julian McWilliams of The Boston Globe reported that Kenley Jansen would not pitch until his lat issue subsided. This translates into a closer-by-committed approach moving forward. Here are the underlying statistics for three potential fill-in relievers over the last 30 days: 

  • Chris Martin: 23.9 K-BB%, 6.7 SwStr%, 87.8 percent contact rate allowed, 1.50 WHIP, 2.78 SIERA, 76.1 Strike%
  • Justin Slaten: 13.3 K-BB%, 15.2 SwStr%, 77.4 percent contact rate allowed, 0.82 WHIP, 3.37 SIERA, 76.1 Strike%
  • Josh Winckowski: 13.6 K-BB%, 9.9 SwStr%, 81.5 percent contact rate allowed, 1.50 WHIP, 3.27 SIERA, 69.5 Strike%

Cano’s “save”: Although Seranthony Domínguez gets credit for securing the save in last night’s win over the Rays, Yennier Cano’s appearance in the seventh represented the game’s most leveraged moment. He took over a bases-loaded situation with no outs at the top of the seventh, replacing Dean Kremer. Cano induced consecutive strikeouts of Jonny DeLuca and José Caballero before an inning-ending Ben Rortvedt pop-out for his 32nd hold, second most in the majors. He’s been scoreless in his last six outings with 11 strikeouts versus one walk while recording five holds.

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