Monkey Bytes: August 22

Wednesday’s slate resulted in nine reliever wins and five saves. There were three walk-offs, including a grand slam in the bottom of the tenth by Nolan Arenado. Justin Martinez recorded his first multiple-inning save of the season, and Manuel Rodríguez (TBR) recorded his first save since 2022 with a clean ninth in Oakland. Our condensed game recaps cover the high-leverage events of interest from yesterday.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Justin Martinez (ARI) was pressed into duty with a runner on and one out in the bottom of the eighth. He retired both batters and returned for the ninth. He recorded his fifth save despite allowing a run on a wild pitch in the bottom of the ninth. He logged 1.2 innings, giving up two hits and a walk while striking out four. 
  • Joe Jiménez (ATL) was summoned with the score tied at the top of the eighth. He allowed a lead-off double and a sacrifice fly, scoring the game-winning run, resulting in his fifth loss. 
  • Seranthony Domínguez (BAL) took over in the bottom of the eighth and produced an inning-ending strikeout, keeping the game tied. He suffered his fourth loss in the ninth, allowing Jesse Winker’s walk-off home run. Domínguez has given up a home run in three straight appearances over his team’s last four games. 
  • Chris Martin (BOS) filled in capably for his closer, preserving a three-run win in Houston for his first save. He allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout on 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) with one whiff. He’s been scoreless in seven of eight games since returning from the injured list, with ten strikeouts versus zero walks.
  • Fraser Ellard (CHW) earned his first major league win. He tossed a clean bottom of the eighth and recorded two strikeouts, keeping the game tied ahead of his teammates, scoring four runs at the top of the ninth.
  • Emilio Pagán (CIN) stranded a runner in the seventh and fired a clean eighth. He was awarded his third win after firing 1.1 clean frames while striking out one. 
  • Lucas Erceg (KCR) shut the door on his sixth save with a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts. He’s scoreless through his first nine outings with the Royals, producing 14 strikeouts against zero walks and a minuscule 0.39 WHIP across 10.1 innings.
  • Andrew Nardi (MIA) let both inherited runners score while giving up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk during one-third of the seventh, resulting in his second loss and a sixth blown save. Calvin Faucher gave up three hits and two earned runs in a non-save outing in the top of the ninth. 
  • Trevor Megill (MIL) issued two walks (one intentional) and recorded one out before giving up Nolan Arenado’s walk-off grand slam in the bottom of the tenth, resulting in his third loss. Devin Williams had command issues in the ninth and suffered his first blown save. He allowed a hit, two earned runs, and three walks while striking out one. 
  • Edwin Díaz (NYM) retired the side and recorded two strikeouts in the top of the ninth against Baltimore. He collected his fifth win courtesy of a walk-off home run in the bottom of the inning. He’s been scoreless in seven of his last eight games with 14 strikeouts against two walks.
  • Carlos Estévez (PHI) navigated around a lead-off walk and a one-out single for a scoreless ninth while recording his 22nd save. 
  • David Bednar (PIT) had his modest two-game scoreless snapped during his sixth loss. He took over a tied game in the bottom of the ninth in Texas and allowed three hits, including Wyatt Langford’s walk-off RBI single. Bednar has allowed a run in seven of his last nine games. 
  • Erik Miller (SFG) took the baton from starter Logan Webb, with the score tied in the top of the ninth. After issuing two walks, he gave up Andrew Vaughn’s go-ahead RBI single and suffered his fourth loss. His final line was one hit allowed, three earned runs, and two walks over two-thirds of an inning. 
  • Ryan Helsley (STL) retired the side and produced two strikeouts in the top of the tenth, then collected his fifth win courtesy of a walk-off grand slam. He’s been scoreless over his last four appearances, securing three saves and this win. 
  • Manuel Rodríguez (TBR) locked down his first save since September 28, 2022, firing a clean bottom of the ninth and striking out one in Oakland. He’s been scoreless over his last ten appearances since July 28, with 12 strikeouts against three walks and a 0.67 WHIP across nine innings.
  • Kirby Yates (TEX) fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts during a tied game. He benefited from a walk-off rally, resulting in his fifth win. He’s won two of three decisions and converted three of four saves through eight appearances in August.

Vulture Save Options for Thursday, August 22

  • Yennier Cano (BAL): Domínguez has appeared in three of the previous four days. 
  • Joel Payamps (MIL): Williams has pitched on consecutive days, throwing a combined 48 pitches; he may need a break until Saturday. Jared Koenig could be in play against a left-handed hitting pocket as well. 
  • Kyle Nicolas (PIT): Bednar and Chapman have worked in back-to-back games. 

Vulture Save Stashes for Friday. August 23

  • A.J. Puk (ARI): Teams have been matching up their left-handed relievers against Boston, and Martinez has thrown 38 pitches in his last two outings; he may require rest until Saturday. 

Three Takeaways

  • D-Will and command: Although fantasy managers do not love spring training, it lets players build up and prepare for the upcoming season. Many pitchers go through a “dead arm” phase at camp, when velocity remains stable, but command struggles happen. Devin Williams suffered a blown save during an eventual loss, allowing two earned runs on consecutive bases-loaded walks on eight pitches. After the game, he acknowledged his lack of command. It’s encouraging to see him capable of appearing on consecutive days, but monitoring his workload more closely may pay dividends over the remainder of the regular season.
  • V-squared placed on the IL: First reported as shoulder soreness, the Rockies placed Victor Vodnik on the 15-day injured list, backdated to August 19 before yesterday’s game. He’s converted nine of ten save opportunities since July 6 with a 17:11 K:BB and a 1.42 WHIP across 19.2 innings. Although Angel Chivilli notched his first MLB save on Tuesday, those desperate for saves should stash or stream Tyler Kinley with Vodnik sidelined. Over ten appearances in August, Kinley’s recorded a win, a save, one blown save, and six holds with 11 strikeouts against one walk (27 K-BB%) and a 0.467 WHIP in 10.2 innings.
  • Tampa Bay and shared saves: After the team placed Pete Fairbanks on the injured list, fantasy players debated which reliever they preferred, Edwin Uceta or Manuel Rodríguez. Perhaps it’s both? Uceta secured his first major league save, retiring all four batters and striking out one. Rodríguez notched his first save last night with a clean ninth while striking out one. Kevin Cash indicated the two relievers would receive more high-leverage chances; so far, so good. Committees can be frustrating, and it’s possible Uceta gets used against the toughest-hitting pockets in some contests, but for now, each can be streamed for saves based on initial usage patterns in Oakland. Only the Dodgers (12) have had more pitches record a save than the Rays’ 11 this season. Could Drew Rasmussen sneak one in and tie them soon? Stay tuned.

American League – Full Game Recaps, August 21

Boston Red Sox – Preserving a three-run win, Chris Martin notched his first save with a scoreless ninth in Houston. He allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout, throwing 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) with one whiff. He’s been scoreless in seven of eight games since returning from the injured list, with ten strikeouts versus zero walks.

  • Luis García fired a clean eighth and struck out two for his 14th hold. Brennan Bernardino stranded the bases loaded with an inning-ending strikeout against Yordan Alvarez and secured his 11th hold.
  • Greg Weissert gave up two hits and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the seventh.
  • Josh Winckowski collected his fourth win, giving up a hit during a scoreless bottom of the sixth.

Hierarchy remains: Kenley Jansen | Chris Martin | Lucas Sims

Kansas City Royals – Completing a combined shutout, Lucas Erceg shut the door on his sixth save with a clean top of the ninth while recording two strikeouts. He threw 14 pitches (64.3 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%). Erceg remains scoreless through his first nine outings with the Royals, producing 14 strikeouts against zero walks and a minuscule 0.39 WHIP across 10.1 innings.

  • John Schreiber notched his 20th hold with a scoreless eighth. He allowed a walk and struck out one.

Updated Hierarchy: Lucas Erceg | Kris Bubic | John Schreiber

Tampa Bay Rays – Securing his first save since September 28, 2022, Manuel Rodríguez retired the side and recorded a game-ending strikeout of Zack Gelof, preserving a two-run win in Oakland. He threw 19 pitches (13 strikes – 68.4 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s been scoreless over his last ten appearances since July 28, with 12 strikeouts against three walks and a 0.67 WHIP across nine innings.

  • Garrett Cleavinger notched his tenth hold, giving up a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
  • Drew Rasmussen recorded his first hold, working around a hit and a walk while striking out three in the seventh.

Adjusted Hierarchy: *Edwin Uceta | *Manuel Rodríguez | Garrett Cleavinger

*=  closer-by-committee

Texas Rangers – Taking over a tied game in the top of the ninth, Kirby Yates retired the Pirates’ 8-9-1 hitters in order and recorded two strikeouts. He benefited from a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning, resulting in his fifth win. He threw 12 pitches (83.3 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (33.3 SwStr%). It’s been a rockier August, but he’s won two of three decisions and converted three of four saves through eight appearances.

  • David Robertson worked a scoreless eighth, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out two.
  • Andrew Chafin tossed a scoreless seventh, allowing a hit and striking out one.
  • José Leclerc gave up a hit and struck out three in a scoreless sixth. 

Hierarchy remains: Kirby Yates | David Robertson | Andrew Chafin

National League – Full Game Recaps, August 21

Arizona Diamondbacks – Working an extended outing, Justin Martinez took over with a runner on and one out in the bottom of the eighth. He recorded a strikeout and an inning-ending groundout. He returned for the ninth but ran into some trouble. Jesús Sánchez hit a lead-off double, Derek produced a one-out single, and a walk loaded the bases. Martinez struck out Kyle Stowers but let a run score on a wild pitch before a game-ending strikeout. This marked his fifth save and first multi-inning save of the season. He threw 31 pitches (18 strikes – 58.1 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (19.4 SwStr%).

  • Joe Manitply was credited with his 13th hold despite giving up two hits and an earned run in one-third of the eighth.
  • Kevin Ginkel fired a clean seventh and struck out two, securing his 15th hold.
  • Dylan Floro was awarded his fifth win. He stranded a runner and retired his only batter in the sixth. 

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

Milwaukee Brewers – Remaining in a tied game in the bottom of the tenth, Trevor Megill suffered his third loss. He allowed two walks (one intentional) and four runs (three earned) on Nolan Arenado’s walk-off grand slam. Megill recorded the last out in the ninth on an inning-ending groundout by Masyn Winn, stranding the bases-loaded situation he inherited.

  • Devin Williams struggled with his command in the top of the ninth, resulting in his first blown save. His outing began with a hit batter (Willson Contreras), followed by a double, a strikeout, and a walk, loading the bases. After striking out Paul Goldschmidt, Williams issued consecutive RBI walks, scoring the game-tying runs before inducing an inning-ending groundout. He threw 31 pitches (12 strikes – 38.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (12.9 SwStr%). Representing his ninth outing of the season, he may be going through a “dead arm” phase.
  • Joel Payamps navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out one for a scoreless eighth during his 15th hold.
  • Bryan Hudson also incurred a blown save, his third, allowing two hits, two earned runs, and striking out one in the seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: Devin Williams | Joel Payamps | Jared Koenig

New York Mets – With the score tied at the top of the ninth, Edwin Díaz retired the Orioles’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket in order while recording two strikeouts. He collected his fifth win courtesy of a walk-off home run in the bottom of the inning. Díaz threw 16 pitches (9 strikes – 56.3 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s been scoreless in seven of his last eight games with 14 strikeouts against two walks.

  • José Buttó suffered his first blown save, letting his only inherited runner score at the top of the eighth. He issued two walks and gave up Adley Rutschman’s game-tying sacrifice fly. Buttó finished with a scoreless outing, allowing two walks and striking out one. 

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Phil Maton | Reed Garrett

Philadelphia Phillies – Despite issuing a lead-off walk, Carlos Estévez secured his 22nd save, second for the Phillies, with a scoreless ninth while preserving a one-run win. He also allowed a one-out single, with the runners second and third with two outs, but Estévez bore down, inducing a game-ending groundout. He threw 16 pitches (9 strikes – 56.3 Strike%) and produced two whiffs.

  • Orion Kerkering tossed a clean eighth and recorded a strikeout for his 12th hold.
  • Matt Strahm collected his fifth win. He retired the side in the seventh and struck out one ahead of his team’s go-ahead rally in the top of the eighth.
  • Jeff Hoffman stranded two runners while retiring both batters faced in the sixth.

Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Jeff Hoffman | Matt Strahm

Pittsburgh Pirates – After the lead-off hitter reached on an infield single, on a rushed throw, David Bednar allowed an Adolis García single, recorded a strikeout, and gave up Wyatt Langford’s walk-off RBI single, resulting in his sixth loss. It’s been one step up and two steps back since his return from an oblique injury. He allowed at least a run in six straight games, then worked two clean outings, but with his outcome, he’s given up a run in seven of nine games since July 29. Since being reinstated from the injured list, he’s posted a 1.92 WHIP while yielding 11 runs (ten earned) over his last 13 innings.

  • Aroldis Chapman fired a clean eighth, striking out the side on 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with two whiffs.
  • Kyle Nicolas retired the side and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless seventh.

Hierarchy remains: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Kyle Nicolas

St. Louis Cardinals – Benefiting from a walk-off grand slam, Ryan Helsley collected his fifth win after retiring the side in the top of the tenth. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%) while striking out two against the Brewers. He’s on a modest four-game scoreless streak.

  • Shawn Armstrong stranded two runners and struck out his only batter faced in the top of the ninth.
  • Matthew Liberatore tossed a scoreless combined innings, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out three.
  • Andrew Kittredge allowed a hit, an earned run, and a walk during his two-thirds of the eighth.
  • JoJo Romero let both inherited runners score, yielding two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two in two-thirds combined innings.

Hierarchy remains: Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | JoJo Romero

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast

Monkey Bytes: August 21

Tuesday’s full slate provided a bevy of high-leverage events of interest. Relievers recorded five wins and ten saves. Angel Chivilli (COL) and Edwin Uceta (TBR) secured the first saves of their respective major league careers. Also, Porter Hodge received the first save chance after the team waived Héctor Neris earlier in the day. Our condensed recaps cover all of yesterday’s action in the late innings.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Justin Martinez (ARI) secured his fourth save with a clean ninth while recording a strikeout. He closed out a two-run win in Miami and has recorded all his saves since August 5. 
  • Raisel Iglesias (ATL) shut the door on his 27th save with a clean ninth during a two-run win over the Phillies. This extended his scoreless streak to 13 games. 
  • Craig Kimbrel (BAL) recorded two outs and one strikeout while finishing a four-run win over the Mets. Yennier Cano did the heavy lifting, retiring all three batters and recording a strikeout across the eighth and ninth innings for his 29th hold. 
  • Kenley Jansen (BOS) nailed down his 24th save with a clean ninth, preserving a one-run win in Houston. He’s appeared on consecutive days and in four of the last five.
  • Porter Hodge (CHC) navigated around a lead-off double by retiring the next three hitters, two via strikeout, for his second save. He’s been scoreless over his last seven outings and has emerged with a save share following his team placing Héctor Neris on waivers. 
  • Tim Herrin (CLE) collected his fifth win. He worked a scoreless bottom of the 11th, walking and striking out one, ahead of his team’s six-run outburst in the top of the 12th. Emmanuel Clase logged his first two-inning outing of the season. He only allowed a walk while retiring six of seven batters. This marked his longest outing since working 1.2 innings on August 27, 2023.
  • Angel Chivilli (COL) notched his first major league save with a scoreless ninth in Washington. He navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out one. After the game, manager Bud Black confirmed Victor Vodnik started warming up but stopped with shoulder soreness. 
  • Kaleb Ort (HOU) suffered his first loss. He allowed Jarren Duran’s go-ahead solo home run in the top of the eighth. 
  • Ben Joyce (LAA) fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts versus Kansas City’s 9-1-2 hitters, finishing a four-run win. 
  • Daniel Hudson (LAD) worked a scoreless ninth despite allowing a one-out double, recording his tenth save while finishing a three-run win over Seattle. Joe Kelly collected his first win. He tossed a scoreless eighth, issuing a walk and striking out one.
  • Devin Williams (MIL) held on for his fifth save. He gave up a one-out single, followed by a double and an intentional walk, loading the bases. But he bore down with consecutive strikeouts, preserving the one-run win in St. Louis. 
  • Steven Okert (MIN) had a rough bottom of the eighth in San Diego. He allowed four hits, including Jurickson Profar’s go-ahead three-run home run, and four earned runs, resulting in his second loss and sixth blown save. 
  • Tim Mayza (NYY) suffered his second loss. At the top of the 12th, he and Michael Tonkin allowed a combined five hits, six runs (five earned), and two walks.
  • David Bednar (PIT) fired a clean bottom of the ninth and struck out one, completing a combined shutout in a non-save outing in Texas. 
  • Robert Suarez (SDP) capped his team’s four-run rally in the bottom of the eighth with a clean ninth. He retired the Twins in order on nine pitches and recorded a strikeout while recording his 29th save. 
  • Ryan Walker (SFG) locked down his second save with a clean ninth while striking out the side against the White Sox. He’s given up an unearned run during his eight appearances in August, posting 16 strikeouts against two walks and converting both saves across 8.2 innings. 
  • Andrés Muñoz (SEA) was summoned with a runner on second and one out in the bottom of the seventh. He suffered his fifth blown save, giving up Mookie Betts’ game-tying RBI double. Returning for the eighth, he hit a batter with one out, issued a walk, and gave up Jason Heyward’s go-ahead three-run home run, resulting in his fifth loss. A less-than-optimal 1.1-inning outing Muñoz, giving up three hits, three earned runs, and two walks (one intentional) while striking out two. 
  • Edwin Uceta (TBR) preserved a 1-0 win in Oakland and recorded his first major league save. He took over in the bottom of the eighth and retired all four batters, one via strikeout on nine pitches. He remains unscored upon in August with a 12:1 K:BB and a 0.29 WHIP across 10.1 innings. 

Vulture Save Options for Wednesday, August 21

  • Jason Adam (SDP): Suarez and Scott have pitched in back-to-back games. 
  • Chirs Martin (BOS): Jansen has appeared in consecutive games and four of the last five. 
  • Tyler Kinley (COL): With Vodnik potentially sidelined, Kinley will rise in the hierarchy. 
  • Hunter Gaddis (CLE): Clase logged two innings last night, his first multiple-inning appearance since 2023.
  • Jordan Hicks (SFG): Walker recorded a dominant save on Tuesday, but he’s thrown 46 pitches over the previous three days. 

Vulture Save Stashes for Thursday. August 22

  • Jorge López (CHC): If Hodge pitches today, it will be back-to-back appearances.
  • Manuel Rodríguez (TBR): If Uceta appears again on Wednesday, it would be consecutive outings.

Three Takeaways

  • Uceta receives the first Rays’ save chance: In an article in The Tampa Bay Times, manager Kevin Cash intimated Edwin Uceta and Manuel Rodríguez would receive more prominent leverage roles with Pete Fairbanks potentially out for the remainder of the season. With the top of the lineup approaching, Uceta warmed up and took over in the bottom of the eighth, protecting a 1-0 lead. He retired all four batters faced and recorded a strikeout for his first career save. He remains atop our adjusted hierarchy—just temper expectations since he could be the highest-leveraged reliever, not the closer.
  • Hodge secures his second save: Although his ninth began by allowing a lead-off double, Porter Hodge bore down, retiring the next three batters, two on strikeouts, preserving the Cubs’ two-run win over Detroit. This tweet by Meghan Montemurro implied that Hodge and Jorge López may share save chances, which fantasy managers should not ignore. Like Uceta above and Lucas Erceg on Kansas City, Hodge may face the toughest lineup pockets in the late innings, not necessarily be reserved for the ninth inning. It’s great getting new options for saves in August, but remember, roles in these bullpens are still evolving.
  • Vodnik’s shoulder: It’s not garnering much attention, but Victor Vodnik stopped warming up for a save chance last night with shoulder soreness. Rookie Angel Chivilli filled in capably with a scoreless ninth for his first save, but those in deeper leagues should monitor this closely. Tyler Kinley has been scoreless in 11 of his last 12 appearances with 14 strikeouts versus three walks and a 0.54 WHIP across 13 innings. He would emerge as the preferred save share if Vodnik needs a stint on the injured list.

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: August 20

All ten games on Monday were decided by three runs or fewer. However, two of those contests featured relievers (Cincinnati and Arizona) allowing at least a run in the bottom of the ninth during a road win. Four relievers recorded a win, and six saves were secured. Boston suffered its MLB-leading 12th blown save in the second half during an eventual walk-off loss in Houston. Baltimore also allowed a walk-off home run in its loss against the Mets. Our condensed recaps cover last night’s high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Paul Sewald (ARI) had his six-game scoreless streak snapped in a non-save outing in Miami. He allowed three hits and two earned runs while closing out a win. His average velocity with his four-seam fastball was only 90.7 m.p.h. in this appearance. 
  • Seranthony Domínguez (BAL) took over a tied game in the bottom of the ninth, producing a strikeout, then served up a walk-off home run by Francisco Alvarez, resulting in his third loss. 
  • Kenley Jansen (BOS) had his six-game scoreless streak snapped by Yainer Diaz’s walk-off home run in the bottom of the ninth, handing the closer his second loss. 
  • Tony Santillan (CIN) took over in the bottom of the fifth and collected his first win. He worked 1.1 scoreless frames, giving up a walk and striking out one. Alexis Díaz closed out the win in a non-save opportunity. He allowed a solo home run and recorded a strikeout. 
  • John Schreiber (KCR) returned from the injured list and secured his second save with a scoreless ninth against the Angels. He worked around a lead-off single with a double play groundout and a game-ending lineout. 
  • Evan Phillips (LAD) fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts, preserving a combined shutout of Seattle. He’s only allowed one unearned run during nine appearances this month, with 13 strikeouts versus one walk. 
  • Edwin Díaz (NYM) fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout. He collected his fourth win courtesy of a walk-off home run in the bottom of the inning. He’s been scoreless in six of his last seven appearances with this win, two saves, and 12 strikeouts against two walks.
  • Mason Miller (OAK) secured his 19th save while preserving a combined shutout. He allowed a walk and struck out one against the Rays. His 357 pitches at 100 m.p.h. or faster leads all major league pitchers this season. 
  • Robert Suarez (SDP) posted his 28th save despite allowing an earned run on a two-out walk and an RBI single. He’s converted all five save chances in August but has given up a run in three of his last five games. 
  • Jordan Hicks (SFG) held on for his first save with a scoreless top of the ninth. He allowed two hits in a bend-but-not-break outing, preserving a two-run win over the White Sox. He’s been scoreless through six relief outings in August. He also became the second Giants pitcher to record at least 20 starts and a save in a season, joining Tim Lincecum (2014). 
  • Kirby Yates (TEX) recorded his 22nd save with a clean ninth while striking out two. He preserved a one-run win against the Pirates on 15 pitches (80 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%). 

Vulture Save Options for Tuesday, August 20

  • Bryan Abreu (HOU): Hader has recorded back-to-back outings. 
  • David Robertson (TEX): Yates has logged consecutive appearances. 
  • Yennier Cano (BAL): Domínguez has pitched in the two previous games. 
  • Michel Otañez (OAK): Miller and Ferguson have logged back-to-back appearances. 

Vulture Save Stashes for Wednesday. August 21

  • Pending usage patterns from Tuesday.

Three Takeaways

  • Phillips ditched the cutter: Evan Phillips recorded his first save since July 23 and changed his pitch mix, fueling his bounce back in August. He’s allowed an unearned run in nine appearances this month with 12 strikeouts against one walk and a 0.69 WHIP over 7.1 innings. In previous posts, his struggles with his cutter, especially against left-handed batters, have been emphasized. However, in his last nine games, he’s relied on his four-seam fastball (20 SwStr%, 37.9 percent whiff rate, .162 weighted on-base average) and his sweeper (9.1 SwStr%, 23.5 percent whiff rate, .138 xwOBA) while shelving the cutter. It’s a positive sign for the remainder of his season. This chart, courtesy of Statcast, illustrates his adapted pitch mix:
  • Boston and blown saves: Amid a stretch of 27 games in 27 days (8/9-9/4), the Red Sox need its leverage ladder to remain in the mix for the Wild Card. Unfortunately, the team leads the majors in blown saves (12) in the second half, and last night’s blown save resulted in a walk-off loss. Kenley Jansen suffered the loss, but Lucas Sims blew the lead in the eighth inning. He’s only allowed runs in three outings since his acquisition, all against Houston, resulting in six runs. Through its last 29 contests, the Red Sox have only recorded four saves, and its relievers rank dead last in Win Probability Added since the All-Star break. Help may be on the way in the form of Justin Slaten and Liam Hendriks, but will it happen early enough to keep playoff aspirations alive?
  • Sewald and velocity: Just when it seemed like the door was ajar enough for a return into high-leverage relevance for Paul Sewald, his velocity declined during his outing on Monday in Miami. He allowed three hits and two earned runs while averaging 90.7 m.p.h. with his four-seam fastball. His results with his four-seam above and below 92 m.p.h. cannot be ignored, and these velocities do not bode well:

American League – Full Game Recaps, August 19

Baltimore Orioles – With the score tied in the bottom of the ninth, Seranthony Domínguez recorded a strikeout, then allowed Francisco Alvarez’s walk-off solo home run, resulting in his third loss. He threw eight pitches (50 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s allowed a home run in his last two games, and all three earned runs with the Orioles have come via a solo home run. Through 11 games, he’s converted all three save chances with a 14:3 K:BB and a 0.84 WHIP across 10.2 innings.

  • Keegan Akin fired two clean frames and recorded five strikeouts.
  • Colin Selby stranded two runners in the fifth and retried all four batters faced, three on strikeouts.

Hierarchy remains: Seranthony Domínguez | Yennier Cano | Cionel Pérez

Boston Red Sox – After striking out Yordan Alvarez on three pitches, Kenley Jansen suffered his second loss, allowing Yainer Diaz’s walk-off home run. This represents his first loss since May 16 and snapped his modest six-game scoreless streak.

  • Lucas Sims struggled with his command, allowing two hits, an earned run, and two walks while striking out one during his fourth blown save in the eighth. The Red Sox have produced 12 blown saves in the second half, most in the majors.
  • Chris Martin navigated around two hits and recorded three strikeouts in a scoreless seventh, securing his 12th hold.

Hierarchy remains: Kenley Jansen | Chris Martin | Lucas Sims

Houston Astros – Benefiting from a walk-off home run, Josh Hader collected his sixth win. He retired the side against Boston’s 7-8-9 lineup pocket on 12 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff. His scoreless streak reached ten games, producing 12 strikeouts versus three walks over his last 10.1 innings.

  • Caleb Ferguson fired a clean eighth and recorded two strikeouts.
  • Tayler Scott let his only inherited runner score, allowing Masataka Yoshida’s home run, putting one earned on his ledger during his 1.1-inning outing.

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Tayler Scott

Kansas City Royals – Back from the injured list, John Schreiber secured his second save, preserving a two-run win over the Angels. He navigated around Logan O’Hoppe’s leadoff single with a double play groundout and a game-ending lineout. He threw eight pitches (75 Strike%) without a whiff. This marked his first outing since July 28 and his first save since May.

  • Kris Bubic gave up Zach Neto’s solo home run and recorded two strikeouts for his third hold in the eighth.

Updated Hierarchy: *Lucas Erceg | *Kris Bubic | *John Schreiber

*=  closer-by-committee

Oakland A’s – Securing his 19th save, Mason Miller navigated around a two-out walk with a game-ending lineout, preserving the combined shutout. He threw 17 pitches (10 strikes – 58.8 Strike%) and induced two whiffs while recording one strikeout. He’s converted four saves since his reinstatement from the injured list while being scoreless in six contests with nine strikeouts versus three walks.

  • Tyler Ferguson recorded his fourth hold with a clean eighth and two strikeouts. He’s been scoreless in 15 of his last 17.
  • Grant Holman notched his second hold in as many outings with a scoreless seventh. He allowed a walk and recorded two strikeouts.

Hierarchy remains: Mason Miller | Tyler Ferguson | Michel Otañez

Texas Rangers – Bouncing back after suffering his first blown save, Kirby Yates preserved a one-run win with a clean ninth for his 22nd save. He threw 15 pitches (80 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts. This snapped his streak of runs allowed at two.

  • José Ureña collected his fourth win. He logged four scoreless innings, scattering two hits and issuing two walks while striking out three.

Hierarchy remains: Kirby Yates | David Robertson | Andrew Chafin

National League – Full Game Recaps, August 19

Los Angeles Dodgers – Completing a combined shutout and recording his first save since July 23, Evan Phillips nailed down his 16th save with a clean ninth while striking out two against Seattle. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s allowed an unearned run across nine appearances in August with 13 strikeouts against one walk.

  • Joe Kelly retired the side and struck out one in the eighth, securing his 13th hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Michael Kopech | Evan Phillips | Daniel Hudson

New York Mets – After retiring the side in the top of the ninth and keeping the game tied, Edwin Díaz collected his fourth win courtesy of a walk-off home run in the bottom of the inning. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%) against Baltimore’s 5-6-7 lineup pocket. He’s been scoreless in six of his last seven appearances with this win, two saves, and 12 strikeouts against two walks.

  • José Buttó allowed a walk during a scoreless eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Phil Maton | Reed Garrett

San Diego Padres – Although he could not complete the combined shutout, Robert Suarez recorded his 28th save. He issued Edouard Julien a two-out walk, who took second on defensive indifference, then scored on Christian Vazquez’s RBI single. Suarez produced a game-ending groundout against pinch-hitter José Miranda. He threw 22 pitches (12 strikes – 54.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted all five save chances in August but has allowed a run in three of his last five.

  • Tanner Scott notched his sixth hold with a clean top of the eighth.
  • Jason Adam fired a clean seventh, striking out the side for his 21st hold.

Hierarchy remains: Robert Suarez | Tanner Scott | Jason Adam

San Francisco Giants – Holding on for his first save, Jordan Hicks navigated around two hits for a scoreless ninth, securing a two-run win over the White Sox. He threw 22 pitches (16 strikes – 72.7 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s been scoreless in all six relief outings this month.

  • Tyler Rogers let both inherited runners score, yielding two hits and recording a strikeout over two-thirds of the eighth for his 26th hold.
  • Spencer Bivens gave up two hits and two earned runs over one-third of the eighth.
  • Erik Miller tossed a scoreless seventh, walking and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Ryan Walker | Tyler Rogers | Jordan Hicks

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast

Monkey Bytes: August 19

Somedays provide more angst than others in the world of high-leverage relievers. Yesterday, they offered an anxiety-driven afternoon. Tampa Bay closer Pete Fairbanks not only suffered his fourth blown save, he allowed a game-tying three-run home run before leaving with the team’s trainer. Early reports speculate on the potential for a lat injury, which could end his season depending on the severity. While fantasy managers prefer clarity, this may result in the Rays mixing-and-matching for saves over the next two weeks or the rest of the season.

For Sunday’s 15-game slate, 13 games were decided by two or fewer runs, seven were one-run contests, and four were extended into extra innings. Seven relievers recorded wins and nine secured saves. Our condensed game recaps capture the high-leverage events of interest, but those seeking deeper analysis should reference the specific team pages, or this post will be too long.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Justin Martinez (ARI) tossed a scoreless bottom of the 11th but suffered his fourth loss in the 12th. Following a sacrifice bunt and a walk, he gave up Dylan Carlson’s walk-off RBI single. He absorbed two losses in Tampa Bay, throwing 18 strikes of his 34 pitches (52.9 Strike%). 
  • Raisel Iglesias (ATL) shut the door on his 26th save with a clean ninth and recorded one strikeout. This extended his scoreless streak to 12 games, during which he’s converted five saves with 16 strikeouts versus one walk across 13 innings.
  • Seranthony Domínguez (BAL) quelled a bases-loaded situation in the top of the eighth on an inning-ending popout. He recorded his fourth save, third with Baltimore, despite giving up Rob Refsnyder’s solo home run in the ninth while retiring three batters via strikeout. He’s been scoreless in eight of ten games with the Orioles, and both runs have been scored on solo home runs. 
  • Victor Vodnik (COL) issued a one-out walk during a scoreless ninth and notched his ninth save, securing a one-run win over the Padres. He’s converted five of six save opportunities in August but has posted more walks (8) than strikeouts (6) over his 8.1 innings this month. 
  • Beau Brieske (DET) collected his second win even though he let the “place” runner score in the top of the tenth, courtesy of a walk-off rally in Williamsport. He allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout against the Yankees. 
  • Josh Hader (HOU) nailed down his 27th save with a clean top of the ninth and two strikeouts while preserving a combined shutout against the White Sox. This extended his scoreless streak to nine games, during which he’s recorded one win and seven saves, with 12 strikeouts against three walks through 9.1 innings.
  • Lucas Erceg (KCR) was summoned with the bases loaded and one out in the seventh. He retired both batters via strikeout, then worked around a one-out single in the eighth for 1.2 scoreless frames. He secured his 18th hold and recorded four strikeouts, but this usage pattern should remind fantasy managers he’s the highest-leveraged reliever, not the closer. 
  • Michael Kopech (LAD) notched his second save with the Dodgers and 11th of the season with a clean ninth, preserving a one-run win in St. Louis. He did work with reduced velocity after appearing three times in four days. He will get at least two days off, per Dave Roberts. Kopech has been scoreless through 9.1 innings since the trade deadline with 13 strikeouts against one walk (40 K-BB%) and retired 28 of 30 batters faced (0.22 WHIP).
  • Calvin Faucher (MIA) navigated around consecutive singles by retiring the next three Mets, two via strikeout, securing his third save and preserving a one-run win. 
  • Jared Koenig (MIL) recorded his first career save with a clean ninth against Cleveland’s 2-3-4 hitters. After the game, manager Pat Murphy confirmed Devin Williams was unavailable after appearing in three of the previous four contests. 
  • Jhoan Durán (MIN) appeared for the fourth time in five days, suffering his sixth loss in the bottom of the tenth. After recording a strikeout, he gave up Josh Jung’s walk-off RBI single. 
  • Reed Garrett (NYM) stranded two runners in the seventh but issued two walks, resulting in an earned run and his fifth loss in the eighth. Phil Maton let one of two inherited runners score on Derek Hill’s RBI single but worked 1.1 scoreless innings. 
  • Clay Holmes (NYY) suffered his MLB-leading tenth blown save. He allowed Colt Keith’s one-out double and Jace Jung’s game-tying RBI single in the bottom of the ninth. Despite his recent rough patch, Aaron Boone said Holmes will be his closer. Mark Leiter Jr. gave up two hits and two runs (one earned) during his fifth loss and a third blown save in the bottom of the tenth. 
  • Dany Jiménez (OAK) took over in the top of the tenth against the Giants and served up two home runs, resulting in three runs (two earned), and his third loss of the season. Mason Miller fired a clean ninth and recorded two strikeouts, keeping the game tied. 
  • Matt Strahm (PHI) took over a tied game at the top of the eighth. He allowed a lead-off single and a walk. After a sacrifice put runners in scoring position, a go-ahead sacrifice fly resulted in his second loss. 
  • Ryan Walker (SFG) logged two innings while registering his eighth win. He returned for the tenth after tossing a scoreless ninth in a tied contest. He allowed the “place” runner to score on Brent Rooker’s RBI single but prevented further damage by retiring the next three hitters via strikeout. Walker finished with two hits allowed, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out five. 
  • Edwin Uceta (TBR) navigated around a bunt single for a scoreless top of the 12th while recording two strikeouts. He collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. He’s been scoreless in 10 of 11 appearances in the second half, with 23 strikeouts against two walks across 16 innings.
  • Andrew Chafin (TEX) retired the side in the top of the tenth and struck out one. He collected his fourth win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. Kirby Yates suffered his first blown save, allowing Carlos Santana’s game-tying solo home run in the ninth. 
  • Chad Green (TOR) navigated around Cody Bellinger’s single and stolen base for a scoreless ninth and his 13th save during a 1-0 win in Chicago. Despite allowing a run in three of his previous four appearances, he’s converted all six save chances in August.
  • Kyle Finnegan (WSH) gave up a lead-off single and then induced a double play groundout, followed by an inning-ending grounder, preserving a two-run win in Philadelphia for his 31st save.

Vulture Save Options for Monday, August 19

  • Tyler Rogers (SFG): Walker logged two innings and threw 35 pitches on Sunday. 
  • Manuel Rodríguez (TBR): Uceta and Cleavinger have appeared in back-to-back games. Expect fluidity in usage patterns with Fairbanks sidelined. 
  • Paul Sewald (ARI): Martinez has pitched in two of the last three. Will Sewald receive his first save chance since July? 
  • Cole Sands (MIN): Durán’s worked in four of the previous five days, and Jax in three of the last four. 
  • Kris Bubic (KCR): Erceg tossed 28 pitches during a 1.2 inning Sunday. 

Vulture Save Stashes for Tuesday, August 20

  • David Robertson (TEX): If Yates pitches tonight, it will be consecutive appearances. 
  • Bryan Abreu (HOU): If Hader pitches today, it will be his second straight outing. Abreu pitched on Saturday and Sunday, so he should be rested on Monday. If not, Tayler Scott would be in line for Tuesday.

What to Watch For (August 19-through-25)

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: Torey Lovullo has deployed Justin Martinez as his closer but has not confirmed his role in press conferences. He’s very loyal to veterans, and a strong week by Paul Sewald could propel him back into the “closer” conversation. 
  • Baltimore Orioles: Seranthony Domínguez has taken over the primary save share. How will the team handle getting there? Dillon Tate and Bruce Zimmerman could be recalled before the end of August. The biggest question remains: can the team help Craig Kimbrel find his first-half form? 
  • Boston Red Sox: Can the team remain in the mix until Justin Slaten and Liam Hendriks can bolster the bullpen? 
  • Chicago Cubs: Héctor Neris has a clause in his contract and receives a player option if he appears in 60 games or records a game-finished in 45. Entering this scoring period, he’s pitched in 46 games and finished 33. If the team prefers letting him walk at the end of the season, will Jorge López receive more save chances over the last six weeks? 
  • Chicago White Sox: Will the team keep using Chad Kuhl in save chances, sparse as they are? Will anyone emerge down the stretch for the closer role in 2025? Should we care? 
  • Colorado Rockies: Will Victor Vodnik remain the closer despite a negative K-BB percentage in August? He’s posted a 2.04 WHIP and a 6.34 SIERA across 8.1 innings this month. 
  • Detroit Tigers: Has Jason Foley reclaimed the primary save share for Detroit? He recorded his 16th save and has pitched in the ninth inning in his last three appearances. 
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: Does Michael Kopech parlay his strong start with the Dodgers into a more prominent leverage role in 2025, too? Should fantasy managers be concerned with his velocity dip on Sunday in St. Louis? 
  • Milwaukee Brewers: What workload can Devin Williams handle over the last six weeks? Three appearances in four days prove encouraging, but when Trevor Megill returns, will they press this type of usage pattern with “The Airbender” or keep him rested for the postseason? 
  • Minnesota Twins: With Rocco Baldelli pursuing the division, not just the playoffs, does this keep Cole Sands on the periphery of fantasy value in deeper formats? He’s recorded two wins and two saves since July 22. He’s one of four relievers with at least two wins and two saves in this timeframe: Robert Suarez (three wins, four saves), Joel Payamps (two wins, two saves), and Josh Hader (two wins, seven saves). 
  • Philadelphia Phillies: Can they get their leverage ladder back on track? It’s been tough sledding in the second half. 
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: How does David Bednar finish the season? This may determine his fantasy value for 2025. He showed signs in his most recent save while navigating around a bases-loaded situation against Seattle, but can he carry this over for the last six weeks? 
  • San Francisco Giants: When will the team recall Camilo Doval, and will he receive save opportunities in September? Bob Melvin left the door open for the demoted closer: 
  • Tampa Bay Rays: With Pete Fairbanks potentially out for the remainder of the season, pending his MRI, we project a match-up-based bullpen with Edwin Uceta, Garrett Cleavinger, Manuel Rodríguez, Colin Poche, and Kevin Kelly in the mix for saves. Here are the team’s Win Probability Added results for the second half through Sunday’s extra-inning win over Arizona: 
  • Texas Rangers: There have been conflicting reports on how the team will handle the end of the season as its hopes of making the playoffs fade. Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic speculated that the team could put some players on waivers to save money, but Evan Grant, the team’s beat writer for The Dallas Morning News, reported Chris Young does not want to take this route.

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast

Monkey Bytes: August 18

Baseball Reference identifies a blowout as a game decided by five or more runs. Saturday’s slate featured six such contests, though two provided a save. Relievers only recorded two wins and seven saves, though four were of the ancillary variety. Our condensed recaps cover the high-leverage events of interest and some relievers getting in work in yesterday’s action.

Closer CliffsNotes

  • Paul Sewald (ARI) tossed a scoreless bottom of the eighth in an eventual loss. He allowed a hit and hit a batter while recording all three outs via strikeout. He’s been scoreless through six outings in August with eight strikeouts against two walks. 
  • Jorge López (CHC) gave up Addison Barger’s lead-off home run in the top of the ninth, then struck out Toronto’s 1-2-3 hitters, including a game-ending strikeout of Vlad Guerrero Jr. for his third save, first as a Cub. López had his 14-game scoreless streak snapped, but he’s produced a 23:7 K:BB since June 28. 
  • Alexis Díaz (CIN) tossed a scoreless top of the seventh during a lopsided loss, allowing a hit and striking out one against the Royals’ 5-6-7-8 batters. He threw 10 pitches (80 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (30 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in six of his last seven with seven strikeouts against two walks over 6.2 innings. 
  • Jason Foley (DET) completed a combined shutout with a scoreless ninth. He navigated around Aaron Judge’s leadoff double and a walk while striking out one in a non-save appearance. 
  • Calvin Faucher (MIA) worked a clean bottom of the eighth and recorded a strikeout in a shutout loss against the Mets. He threw 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless over his last four appearances but has not received a save chance on August 7.
  • Cole Sands (MIN) notched his fourth save with a clean bottom of the ninth and striking out one, finishing a three-run win against Texas. 
  • Devin Williams (MIL) recorded his fourth save with a clean top of the ninth, preserving a one-run win against Cleveland’s 2-3-4 lineup pocket on ten pitches. 
  • Michel Otañez (OAK) navigated around a two-out infield single and a walk for a scoreless ninth while recording his first major league save. He threw 26 pitches (17 strikes – 65.4 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (23.1 SwStr%) with three strikeouts, completing the combined shutout of the Giants. 
  • David Bednar (PIT) inherited a bases-loaded with no-out situation in the top of the ninth and retired three straight batters, two via strikeout, for his 22nd save. He only threw nine pitches and produced three whiffs, snapping his six-game streak of allowing at least a run. 
  • Ryan Helsley (STL) nailed down his MLB-leading 38th save with a clean ninth and recorded a strikeout during a two-run win over the Dodgers. He’s registered a save in five straight outings. 
  • Richard Lovelady (TBR) took over a bases-loaded situation in the top of the eighth with two outs and stymied the rally. He returned for the ninth and recorded his first save, throwing 1.1 clean frames in a five-run win over Arizona. He’s the ninth pitcher with a save for the Rays this season.

Vulture Save Options for Sunday, August 18

  • Aroldis Chapman (PIT): Bednar has appeared in two straight games. 
  • Josh Winckowski (BOS): Jansen, Martin, and Sims have pitched the previous two games. 

Three Takeaways

  • Sewald and velocity: During his team’s eventual loss, Paul Sewald recorded his sixth scoreless appearance in August. He’s collected a win this month but has not received a save opportunity since July 31. His manager has not closed the door for the veteran to get save chances through the end of the season, but with 38 games remaining, the window of opportunity continues to shrink. Fantasy managers should monitor his velocity closely, Justin Martinez’s walk rate, and usage patterns over the next two weeks. Sewald has seen a slight uptick in recent outings, and he admitted the oblique injury earlier this season affected his results. Mining his results from Statcast since his arrival in Arizona, here are Sewald’s splits when he throws his four-seam fastball above and below 92 m.p.h. since August 5, 2023:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/EpkpW/6/

  • Cubs hierarchy tweak: Although Porter Hodge has performed well in a set-up capacity, with Héctor Neris unavailable after throwing 33 pitches on Friday, Craig Counsell called upon Jorge López for the save. He responded with his third of the season and first as a Cub after allowing a lead-off home run by striking out the first three hitters in Toronto’s lineup, including a game-ending one of Vlad Guerrero Jr. Neris remains atop our hierarchy. If his past struggles resurface, it could open the door for more López save chances.
  • A vulture in Sands: Usage patterns and performance dictate value in head-to-head leagues. Hitting on the right stream option can swing a week. Over his last 10 appearances, Cole Sands has recorded two wins and two saves with 12 strikeouts against one walk and a 0.975 WHIP across 12.1 innings since July 22. He’s not perfect and not assured this productivity level will continue, but with the Twins pushing for the division and a spot in the playoffs, he may be a sneaky streamer moving forward.

American League – Game Recaps for August 17

Minnesota Twins – Providing his teammates with much-needed rest, Cole Sands capped his team’s comeback rally by securing his fourth save, preserving a three-run win in Texas. He retired the side and recorded a strikeout on nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) with two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

  • Jorge Alcala notched his 15th hold, firing a clean eighth and striking out one against the Rangers’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket.
  • Ronny Henriquez logged two scoreless frames, scattered two hits, and recorded a strikeout while collecting his first win. 

Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala

Oakland A’s – After recording two strikeouts in the top of the ninth, Michel Otañez allowed an infield single and a walk before producing a game-ending strikeout of Casey Schmitt for his first career save. He threw 26 pitches (17 strikes – 65.4 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (23.1 SwStr%) while completing the combined shutout.

  • T.J. McFarland stranded a runner and retired both batters in the eighth for his 14th hold.
  • Grant Holman made his major league debut by stranding two runners in the seventh and gave up a hit during two-thirds scoreless while recording his first hold.
  • Scott Alexander worked two-thirds scoreless in the seventh despite yielding a hit and a walk.

Adjusted Hierarchy: Mason Miller | Tyler Ferguson | Michel Otañez

National League – Game Recaps for August 17

Chicago Cubs – Pitching through the rain, Jorge López lost his 14-game scoreless streak, allowing Addison Barger’s lead-off home run in the top of the ninth. He recovered with consecutive strikeouts of George Springer, Daulton Varsho, and Vlad Guerrero Jr. for his first save as a Cub and his third of the season. López threw 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). He’s been moving up the leverage ladder and may push Héctor Neris aside for more save chances.

  • Porter Hodge notched his ninth hold, issuing two walks and recording two strikeouts over 1.2 scoreless innings.
  • Drew Smyly gave up three hits and an earned run in one-third of the seventh, getting credit for his seventh hold.
  • Julian Merryweather worked a scoreless sixth for his second hold.
  • Tyson MIiler secured his ninth hold with a scoreless fifth. Nate Pearson collected his second win with two scoreless innings, navigating around a hit and two walks while striking out one. 

Updated Hierarchy: Héctor Neris | Jorge López | Porter Hodge

Milwaukee Brewers – Shutting the door on his fourth save, Devin Williams fired a clean top of the ninth against the Guardians’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket. He threw 10 pitches (50 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s converted a save in his last four outings, recording six strikeouts while retiring all 12 batters.

  • Jared Koenig secured his sixth hold with a clean eighth and struck out the side.
  • Joel Payamps worked a clean seventh and recorded a strikeout for his 14th hold.

Hierarchy remains: Devin Williams | Joel Payamps | Bryan Hudson

Pittsburgh Pirates – Summoned with the bases loaded and no outs, David Bednar inherited a save situation with a five-run lead. He induced a shallow flyout by Victor Robles, then produced consecutive Randy Arozarena and Julio Rodríguez strikeouts, stranding all three runners and securing his 22nd save. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (33.3 SwStr%). His split finger had much better movement in this outing. This snapped his six-game streak of allowing at least a run, and he retired five of his last six batters via strikeout.

  • Domingo Germán created the mess, issuing a walk and hitting two batters, prompting his removal in the top of the ninth.
  • Dennis Santana logged two scoreless frames and recorded three strikeouts for his second hold.
  • Kyle Nicolas retired his only batter on a strikeout and notched his sixth hold in the sixth.

Hierarchy remains: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Kyle Nicolas

St. Louis Cardinals – Retaking the major league lead with his 38th save, Ryan Helsley fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout, finishing a two-run win against the Dodgers. He only needed six pitches (83.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff (16.7 SwStr%) while facing the 4-5-6 lineup pocket. He’s converted a save in his last five appearances and been scoreless in four.

  • JoJo Romero secured his 29th hold, retiring the side in the eighth.

Hierarchy remains: Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | JoJo Romero

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast