Minnesota Twins Fantasy Baseball Daily Bullpen Updates and Closer Depth Chart
| Closer | 1st in line | 2nd in line | 2025 Closer | Updated | |
| MIN | Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands | Jhoan Durán | 11/1/24 |
| IL |
* =closer-by-committee
Previous updates:
Minnesota Twins – What felt like a slam dunk has become a bit murky. Jhoan Durán took a step back, though it’s possible his oblique injury affected his performance throughout the season. It feels like he should get a mulligan for 2024 but his spring performance should be tracked closely. Griffin Jax emerged as a trusted high-leverage option, but the team has spoke about him potentially being used as a starter. Stay tuned.
September 20, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Although he let the “place” runner score at the bottom of the 12th, Griffin Jax notched his tenth save. He induced two groundouts and recorded a game-ending strikeout, preserving a two-run win in Boston. He threw eight pitches (87.5 Strike%) and produced one whiff.
- Scott Blewett collected his first career win, walking one and striking out two in a scoreless bottom of the 11th.
- Louie Varland logged 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a walk and striking out two. Ronny Henriquez gave up a hit and a walk with two strikeouts in two-thirds of the ninth.
- Jhoan Durán navigated around two hits and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless eighth.
- Cole Sands allowed a hit and struck out three in the seventh.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands
September 19, 2024
Minnesota Twins – With the score tied at the bottom of the tenth, Caleb Thielbar recorded a strikeout, issued Lane Thomas an intentional walk, and gave up Andrés Giménez’s walk-off RBI single, resulting in his fourth loss.
- Griffin Jax fired a clean ninth and recorded two strikeouts. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%). He’s appeared in three of the last four games.
- Louie Varland tossed a scoreless eighth, walking and striking out one.
- Cole Sands navigated around a hit and a walk while recording two outs at the bottom of the seventh.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands
September 18, 2024
Minnesota Twins – With a two-run lead at the bottom of the tenth, Ronny Henriquez suffered his first loss and a first blown save. He allowed two hits, three runs (two earned), and a walk while striking out one over one-third of an inning.
- Michael Tonkin took over with two runners on and one out. He allowed Brayan Rocchio’s RBI walk-off single.
- Jhoan Durán fired a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out one on 11 pitches (54.5 Strike%) with two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).
- Louie Varland retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the eighth.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands
September 17, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Taking over with two runners on and one out at the bottom of the ninth, Griffin Jax recorded a strikeout, allowed a single, and induced a game-ending Bo Naylor groundout, preserving the three-run win during his ninth save. He threw eight pitches (75 Strike%) and generated four whiffs. This marked his first save since August 5.
- Jhoan Durán worked a scoreless eighth, then returned for the ninth. After allowing José Ramírez’s double and striking out Josh Naylor, he was removed after walking Lane Thomas. Durán notched his seventh hold and recorded two strikeouts while throwing 30 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with four whiffs.
- Ronny Henriquez gave up a hit during a scoreless seventh, securing his second hold.
- Cole Sands collected his ninth win, firing a clean sixth and striking out one.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands
September 16, 2024
Minnesota Twins – After stranding all three inherited runners at the bottom of the seventh, Griffin Jax returned for the eighth, allowing two hits, including Kyle Manzardo’s go-ahead two-run home run. This resulted in Jax’s fifth loss and a sixth blown save. He threw 21 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).
- Caleb Thielbar issued a walk and recorded one out in the eighth.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands
September 15, 2024
Minnesota Twins – In ascending order of appearances, Ronny Henriquez logged 1.1 scoreless innings while scattering two hits.
- Cole Sands collected his eighth win while logging two scoreless frames. He allowed a hit and a walk while striking out two on 36 pitches (21 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) with five whiffs.
- Jorge Alcala worked two scoreless innings, giving up a hit and striking out four while closing a seven-run victory.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands
September 11, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Hanging on for his 23rd save, Jhoan Durán allowed three hits and an earned run while striking out two in a two-run win over the Angels. He threw 22 pitches (15 strikes – 68.2 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (14.3 SwStr%). His second-half struggles with contact continued in this outing. He’s given up multiple hits in seven of 19 games since the All-Star break and has posted a 1.47 WHIP while converting eight of nine save chances.
- Griffin Jax logged two scoreless frames, issuing a walk and striking out three for his 24th hold.
- Jorge Alcala tossed 1.1 innings and allowed a solo home run while recording his 16th hold.
- Caleb Thielbar gave up a hit and a walk while striking out two over two-thirds scoreless, securing his tenth hold.
- Cole Sands stranded a runner and walked one while striking out two in two-thirds of the fourth, collecting his seventh win.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands
September 7, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Appearing in the bottom of the eighth with a two-run lead, Jhoan Durán 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
September 5, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Finishing a one-run win in Tampa Bay and securing his 22nd save, Jhoan Durán fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts, facing the 7-8-9 lineup pocket. He threw 12 pitches (83.3 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (25 SwStr%). He’s converted a save in four straight appearances and turned in clean outings in his last three.
- Griffin Jax notched his 23rd hold, working 1.1 scoreless frames, allowing a hit, and striking out two.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands
September 2, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Securing his 21st save, Jhoan Durán preserved a one-run win in Tampa Bay with a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out one. He threw 14 pitches (8 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%) against the top of the lineup. He’s converted his last three save chances with a scoreless appearance in each.
- Cole Sands allowed a solo home run and struck out two in the eighth for his 22nd hold.
- Griffin Jax notched his 22nd hold with a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and striking out two.
- Ronny Henriquez retired the side in the sixth for his first hold.
- Jorge Alcala collected his fourth win, logging 1.1 scoreless innings, scattering two hits and striking out three.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands
September 1, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Summoned with a one-run lead, Jhoan Durán secured his 20th save, working around a hit batter with a groundout and a game-ending flyout. He threw 13 pitches (69.2 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in his last two outings, recording a save in each, but last worked a clean inning on August 15.
- Griffin Jax gave up a hit, two earned runs, and a walk in the top of the eighth. However, he collected his fourth win courtesy of a three-run rally in the bottom of the inning.
- Cole Sands tossed a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands
August 30, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Completing the combined shutout, Jhoan Durán worked around a lead-off single with a game-ending double play groundout for his 19th save. Although he’s allowed at least a run in four of his last eight outings, he’s converted four of five save opportunities this month.
- Griffin Jax secured his 21st hold, stranding two runners with an inning-ending strikeout of Daulton Varsho. He remains scoreless since July 23 through 15 games, spanning 14.1 innings with 18 strikeouts against zero walks and a minuscule 0.42 WHIP.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands
August 27, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Taking over in the top of the tenth, Jhoan Durán allowed Marcell Ozuna’s lead-off double, a fielder’s choice RBI groundball, an RBI single by Travis d’Arnaud, and a one-out Ramón Laureano two-RBI double before being removed. Durán gave up a season-high four runs (three earned) on four hits and recorded a strikeout en route to his eighth loss and third in his last four appearances.
- Caleb Thielbar stranded two runners while issuing a walk in two-thirds of the tenth.
- Griffin Jax fired a clean ninth, striking out one, keeping the game tied.
- Cole Sands worked a clean eighth.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands
August 25, 2024
Minnesota Twins – With a one-run lead in the top of the ninth, Jhoan Durán could not close out a win, though his defense did not do him any favors. After recording a strikeout, he allowed Nolan Arenado’s single, followed by Brendan Donovan reaching on a fielder’s choice throwing error by Eduoard Julien, putting runners on second and third. Durán retired Tommy Pham via strikeout but gave up a go-ahead two-RBI single by Lars Nootbar. He finishes with three hits, two runs (zero earned), and two strikeouts, resulting in his seventh loss and second blown save.
- Griffin Jax tossed a clean eighth and recorded two strikeouts.
- Cole Sands logged two scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out two.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands
August 18, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Appearing for the fourth time in five days, Jhoan Durán suffered his sixth loss. He opened the bottom of the tenth with a strikeout, then gave up Josh Jung’s walk-off RBI single, scoring the “place” runner.
- Griffin Jax fired a clean ninth and recorded a strikeout.
- Trevor Richards logged 1.1 clean frames and struck out one.
- Jorge Alcala went nuclear, giving up five hits and five earned runs while striking out one over two-thirds of the seventh, resulting in his second blown save.
Updated Hierarchy: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Cole Sands
August 17, 2024
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
August 16, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Appearing for a third straight game, Jhoan Durán secured his 18th save with a scoreless ninth. He allowed a two-out infield single before producing a game-ending strikeout. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%). He’s converted three saves in August and been scoreless in five of six outings this month.
- Griffin Jax locked down his 20th hold with a clean eighth and recorded two strikeouts.
- Steven Okert notched his seventh hold, stranding a runner while retiring both batters in the seventh, one via strikeout.
- Cole Sands escaped with his fourth hold, scattering three hits and striking out one in two-thirds scoreless.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
August 15, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Taking over in the ninth with a one-run lead, Jhoan Durán retired the Rangers’ 9-1-2 hitters in order, two via strikeout while recording his 17th save. He threw 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in four of five outings in August with two saves.
- Jorge Alcala collected his third win. He fired a clean bottom of the eighth and struck out one ahead of his team’s go-ahead rally in the top of the ninth.
- Griffin Jax allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless seventh, keeping the game tied.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
August 9, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Securing his first save of the second half and 16th of the season, Jhoan Durán worked around a two-out single and recorded all three outs via strikeout, preserving a two-run win over Cleveland in Game 1. He threw 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in his last three appearances, and this represents the first time he’s registered three strikeouts in an outing in 2024.
- Griffin Jax retired the side on 12 pitches in the eighth for his 18th hold.
- Jorge Alcala was credited with his 14th hold despite giving up two hits, including Brayan Rocchio’s two-run home run in the seventh. He’s allowed a home run in three of his last seven games.
Completing a sweep in Game 2, Trevor Richards recorded his first save and the second of his career (last April 20, 2021) with a clean top of the ninth against Cleveland. He threw nine pitches (88.9 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%) while striking out one.
- Caleb Thielbar logged two scoreless frames and recorded two strikeouts for his eighth hold.
- Cole Sands collected his sixth win. He stranded two runners in the fifth and retired all four batters, two via strikeout.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
August 5, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Preserving a combined shutout, Griffin Jax worked around a one-out Cody Bellinger single with a strikeout and a game-ending groundout for his eighth save. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless through three outings in August with two holds and this save.
- Jhoan Durán gave up a two-out Ian Happ double and recorded an inning-ending strikeout for his fifth hold. He faced the Cubs’ 8-9-1-2 hitters, throwing 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with three whiffs (20 SwStr%).
- Jorge Alcala notched his 13th hold with a clean seventh.
- Caleb Thielbar fired a clean sixth and struck out the side while securing his seventh hold.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
July 24, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Despite throwing 27 pitches last night, Jhoan Durán took over a tied game in the top of the ninth. He dispensed the top of the Phillies’ lineup in order and recorded a strikeout on 10 pitches (60 Strike%) with one whiff. He collected his sixth win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the frame.
- Cole Sands fired a clean eighth and recorded two strikeouts.
- In his first appearance since May 1, Brock Stewart allowed a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
July 23, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Entering a scoreless game in the top of the ninth, Jhoan Durán allowed a one-out Bryce Harper double, issued consecutive walks, and gave up a go-ahead Brandon Marsh sacrifice fly, followed by a two-RBI Nick Castellanos double. He was removed after giving up three runs and suffered his fifth loss. His final line was two hits, three earned runs, and two walks over two-thirds of an inning. He threw 27 pitches (11 strikes – 40.7 Strike%) and only induced one whiff.
- Griffin Jax tossed a scoreless eighth.
- Jorge Alcala worked a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and striking out one.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
July 22, 2024
Minnesota Twins – After retiring the side at the top of the eighth and protecting a two-run lead, Cole Sands remained in the game for the ninth after his teammates tacked on three runs at the bottom of the eighth. He secured his third save, working around a hitter reaching on an error for two scoreless frames and recording two strikeouts. He threw 30 pitches (70 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (13.3 SwStr%). He’s only given up two unearned runs over six games in July, with 11 strikeouts versus zero walks across nine innings. Jhoan Durán was warming for the ninth, but sat down when the lead expanded beyond a save chance.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
July 21, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Entering in the seventh, Jorge Alcala suffered his first blown save, giving up a game-tying Jackson Chourio solo home run, and recorded two strikeouts.
- Griffin Jax was tagged with his fourth loss, allowing two hits, including a go-ahead Rhys Hoskins two-run home run, and struck out one in the eighth.
- Caleb Thielbar gave up a solo shot (Eric Haase) and a walk in the top of the ninth.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
July 20, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Steven Okert let one of two inherited runners score while giving up two hits, three runs (two earned), and a walk during his two-thirds combined innings. Josh Staumont struggled in the 12th, letting all three inherited runners score and allowing three hits with two earned runs on his ledger.
- Cole Sands gave up a hit and two runs (one earned) during one-third of the 11th.
- Jhoan Durán fired a clean tenth and recorded two strikeouts while stranding the “place” runner. He threw 12 pitches (7 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff.
- Griffin Jax retired the side in the ninth.
- With his team down one, Jorge Alcala worked a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit. In a tied game,
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
July 17, 2024
Minnesota Twins – The biggest thing for fantasy managers in this leverage ladder is how Jhoan Durán finishes the season and his velocities. This team has other needs than the bullpen, so do not anticipate a big move here unless an injury happens in the next ten days. Getting Brock Stewart and Justin Topa back may represent the two biggest additions for this bullpen in the second half.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
July 14, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Entering a tied game in the bottom of the ninth, Jhoan Durán suffered his fourth loss on Mike Yastrzemski’s lead-off triple and a throwing error awarding him home, resulting in an unearned run on his ledger.
- Griffin Jax fired a clean eighth and recorded a strikeout.
- Josh Staumont retired his only batter via strikeout in the seventh, stranding a runner.
- Caleb Thielbar gave up a hit and struck out one in two-thirds scoreless in the seventh.
- Jorge Alcala stranded two runners while retiring his only batter in the sixth.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
July 13, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Shutting the door on his 15th save, Jhoan Durán fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded a strikeout in San Francisco. He threw 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted his last four saves during an eight-game scoreless streak with eight strikeouts versus two walks.
- Griffin Jax notched his 15th hold, allowing a two-out triple and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
- Jorge Alcala secured his 11th hold while retiring the side in the seventh.
- Cole Sands collected his fourth win, logging 1.2 clean frames and striking out one.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
July 10, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Preserving a one-run win and a split in Game 2, Jhoan Durán fired a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out two against the White Sox. He threw 10 pitches (80 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (30 SwStr%). His scoreless streak reached seven games after this outing, during which he recorded two wins, three saves, and seven strikeouts against two walks across 6.2 innings.
- Griffin Jax worked a scoreless eighth, walking one and striking out one for his 14th hold.
- Jorge Alcala retired the side and struck out one in the seventh, securing his tenth hold.
- Steven Okert was awarded his third win, tossing a clean sixth inning.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
July 8, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Outlasting the White Sox in an 11-inning contest, the Twins called upon Kody Funderburk with a two-run lead, and he responded by recording his first major league save. He retired the side against the 7-8-9 lineup pocket and recorded a strikeout.
- Jhoan Durán collected his fifth win, tossing a scoreless tenth. He navigated around a walk (intentional – Eloy Jiménez) and struck out one, throwing 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) with two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).
- Caleb Thielbar tossed a clean ninth, striking out one.
- Griffin Jax suffered his fourth blown save, allowing a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two in the eighth.
- Jorge Alcala notched his ninth hold, tossing a clean seventh and striking out one.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
July 7, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Working around a lead-off single by Yainer Diaz and a two-out walk, Jhoan Durán kept the game tied. He threw 22 pitches (14 strikes – 63.6 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%) while striking one against the Astros. He collected his fourth win courtesy of a walk-off home run in the bottom of the inning. He owns a modest five-game scoreless streak and has been scoreless in 11 of his last 12 contests.
- Griffin Jax tossed a scoreless eighth, allowing a single and striking out two.
- Josh Staumont retired the side in the seventh, reaching 101 m.p.h. on the radar.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
July 2, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Nailing down his 13th save, Jhoan Durán retired the side and recorded one strikeout in the top of the ninth against the Tigers’ 5-6-7 lineup pocket. He threw 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s been scoreless in 10 of his last 11 outings with nine strikeouts against two walks across 11 innings.
- Griffin Jax gave up a hit and struck out one during a scoreless eighth for his 13th hold.
- Jorge Alcala collected his second win, retiring all four batters faced and striking out one.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
June 30, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Nailing down his 12th save, Jhoan Durán fired a clean bottom of the ninth, closing out a two-run win in Seattle. He threw 19 pitches (13 strikes – 68.4 Strike%) and induced one whiff facing the 4-5-6 lineup pocket. This caps a tumultuous June during which he was scoreless in 10 of 12 outings while converting three of four save chances, allowing five earned runs, and producing a 10:3 K:BB over 11.2 innings.
- Kody Funderburk secured his fifth hold, retiring the side in the eighth.
- Cole Sands let his only inherited runner score in one-third of the seventh. He was tagged with his third blown save and awarded his third win.
- Steven Okert recorded two outs but gave up a hit and an earned run during his fifth hold.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
June 28, 2024
Minnesota Twins – During a strange sequence, Cole Sands suffered his first loss in the bottom of the tenth. After the “place” runner moved up on a groundout, Cal Raleigh hit a dribbler between the mound and first, scoring the game-winning run.
- Jhoan Durán navigated around two hits, though one was a bunt, for a scoreless ninth and recorded a strikeout. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%).
- Griffin Jax was tagged with his third blown save. He allowed a lead-off walk and a single, followed by Julio Rodríguez reaching on a throwing error, which scored the go-ahead unearned run. He also issued an intentional walk before an inning-ending strikeout.
- Jorge Alcala notched his seventh hold with a clean seventh and two strikeouts.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
June 25, 2024
(RP | MIN): After his team tied the contest in the top of the seventh, Jorge Alcala issued a two-out walk and allowed consecutive singles, including a go-ahead RBI one by Ketel Marte, resulting in his third loss in the bottom of the inning.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
June 23, 2024
(RP | MIN): After warming up in the eighth, Griffin Jax took over the ninth and recorded his seventh save. He worked around a two-out infield single with a game-ending strikeout, preserving a combined shutout in Oakland. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (25 SwStr%). He’s allowed an unearned run and notched two saves over his last four games. He remains an upside play for ancillary saves in deeper formats.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
June 21, 2024
(RP | MIN): In a curious usage pattern, Jhoan Durán took over in the eighth with a one-run lead against Oakland’s 5-6-7 lineup pocket. He suffered his third loss and first blown save, hitting a batter and then serving up a go-ahead two-run home run (Shea Langeliers).
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Summoned in the eighth inning against Oakland’s 5-6-7 hitters, which includes two of its best power hitters, Jhoan Durán gave up the lead in three pitches. He hit Tyler Soderstrom with a pitch and allowed a go-ahead two-run home run by Shea Langeliers on a hung “splinker.” Although he retired the next three hitters, Durán suffered his third loss and first blown save, throwing 19 pitches (13 strikes – 68.4 Strike%) with four whiffs (21.1 SwStr%). Jorge Alcala notched his sixth hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the seventh. Kody Funderburk logged 1.1 innings, allowing two hits and an earned run while striking out three. It’s not known if the intent was a two-inning save or using Durán in Rocco Baldelli’s perceived highest-leveraged moment, but we will continue tracking usage patterns in this leverage ladder.
Updated Hierarchy: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala
June 20, 2024
(RP | MIN): Entering in the top of the tenth, Griffin Jax allowed two hits, including a go-ahead RBI single by Jonny DeLuca, scoring the “place” runner. He suffered his third loss, throwing 20 pitches (75 Strike%) and inducing two whiffs while striking out one.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Josh Staumont
June 19, 2024
(RP | MIN): A strange top of the tenth resulted in a loss for Jorge Alcala. He opened his outing with a hit-batter, threw a wild pitch with the “place” runner getting thrown out at third, and allowed an unearned run on a throwing error.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Tasked with the top of the tenth, Jorge Alcala had a chaotic inning. He hit Randy Arozarena with a pitch, uncorked a wild pitch resulting in Jose Siri being thrown out at third, induced a flyout, and a batter reached on a throwing error, scoring the game-winning run and handing Alcala his second loss. Jhoan Durán fired a clean top of the ninth and struck out one. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (20 SwStr%). Josh Staumnot took a walk on the wild side, issuing three free passes and striking out one during a scoreless eighth. Steven Okert stranded two runners, recorded two outs, and issued a walk in the seventh. Cole Sands allowed two hits, an earned run, and a walk during his one-third of the seventh.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Josh Staumont
June 18, 2024
(RP | MIN): Keeping the game tied with a clean top of the ninth and recording two strikeouts, Jhoan Durán collected his third win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning against Tampa Bay.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – After retiring the side and striking out two at the top of the ninth, Jhoan Durán earned his third win following a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in six out of seven outings in June, collecting three wins, two saves, and a hold. Griffin Jax retired the side in the eighth. Jorge Alcala worked a clean seventh, striking out one. Jay Jackson logged two innings, allowing a solo home run (Josh Lowe) and striking out one following a rain delay.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Josh Staumont
June 16, 2024
(RP | MIN): A fantasy favorite, Jhoan Durán faced one batter, retiring him on a game-ending groundout while recording his 11th save in Game 1 against Oakland.
(RP | MIN): Finishing a sweep, Griffin Jax secured his sixth save, closing out a one-run win in Game 2. He allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless ninth.
Analysis
Game 1
Minnesota Twins – Using the “B” side of the leverage ladder in Game 1 until the ninth, Jorge Alcala logged 1.2 scoreless innings, allowing a hit and striking out one. Cole Sands took over in the ninth with a five-run lead and gave up two hits, an earned run, and a walk with one strikeout over two-thirds before his removal. Jhoan Durán entered with two runners on and two outs. He secured his 11th save, inducing a game-ending groundout during a nine-pitch at-bat.
Game 2
Handed a one-run lead in Game 2, Griffin Jax secured his sixth save, giving up a hit and striking out one in a scoreless ninth, preserving a one-run win and a sweep. He threw 12 pitches (91.7 Strike%) with two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). Josh Staumont fired 1.1 clean frames and struck out the side in the top of the eighth. He collected his first win courtesy of a go-ahead home run in the bottom of the inning.
Updated Hierarchy: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Josh Staumont
June 14, 2024
(RP | MIN): Recording his first multiple-inning outing this year, Jhoan Durán collected his second win on a walk-off rally in the bottom of the tenth. He tossed two scoreless frames, issuing a walk and striking out one.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Logging an extended outing, Jhoan Durán allowed a walk in a scoreless ninth, keeping the game tied. Then he returned and tossed a clean tenth, recording a strikeout. He collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off in the bottom of the inning. His final line was two scoreless innings, giving up a walk and striking out one. He threw 20 pitches (65 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (15 SwStr%). This marked his first multi-inning outing and third consecutive scoreless outing. Josh Staumont gave up a walk during a scoreless eighth. Griffin Jax allowed a hit and an earned run while striking out one in the seventh. Cole Sands tossed two clean frames, striking out three.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
June 12, 2024
(RP | MIN): With no outs and the lead cut to three in the top of the eighth, the Twins summoned Jhoan Durán. Although he issued a walk to his first batter faced, he bore down, inducing a double play and an inning-ending pop-out for his fourth hold.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Wrapping up a lopsided win, Jay Jackson allowed two hits and an earned run while striking out three in the top of the ninth against the Rockies. Jhoan Durán was forced into action in the eighth, taking over with two runners on and no outs. Despite issuing a walk to his first batter faced, he induced a double play, scoring an inherited runner and an inning-ending pop-out by Charlie Blackmon for his fourth hold. He threw 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) and produced two whiffs. This marked his first hold since May 10. Caleb Thielbar created the mess, giving up a hit, three runs (one earned), and two walks without recording an out in the eighth. Steven Okert allowed three hits and two earned runs in the seventh. Jorge Alcala gave up a hit and an earned run in the sixth.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
June 10, 2024
(RP | MIN): Maintaining a 2-0 shutout in the top of the eighth, Griffin Jax secured his 11th hold. He only needed 15 pitches while striking out the side and generating five whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – In ascending order of appearance, Steven Okert secured his fourth hold, retiring both batters in the top of the seventh. Griffin Jax fired a clean eighth, locking down his 12th hold by striking out the side on 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and generating five whiffs (33.3 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in 10 of his last 11 outings with 16 strikeouts against one walk (40.5 K-BB%) and a 24 percent swinging strike rate. Jhoan Durán warmed for the save chance, which would have been his third straight appearance, but sat down after a Royce Lewis extended the lead to five. Diego Castillo tossed a scoreless ninth, preserving the shutout in a non-save capacity.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
June 9, 2024
(RP | MIN): Bouncing back with a clean bottom of the ninth, Jhoan Durán collected his first win courtesy of a seven-run top of the tenth.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Capping a seven-run top of the tenth, Josh Staumont let the “place” runner score on an RBI single by Oneil Cruz, then retired the next three batters. Jhoan Durán collected his first win, firing a clean bottom of the ninth and striking out one, keeping the game tied. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Jorge Alcala navigated around two walks for a scoreless eighth. Griffin Jax tossed a scoreless seventh, issuing a walk and striking out two. Cole Sands gave up two hits and struck out one in the sixth. Caleb Thielbar stranded a runner and retired his only batter in the fifth.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
June 8, 2024
(RP | MIN): Appearing with his team down by one in the bottom of the eighth, Jhoan Durán did not fare well. He issued Oneil Cruz a one-out walk, followed by a Ke’Bryan Hayes single, but recorded a strikeout. With two outs and runners on second and third, Durán gave up a two-RBI single by Rowdy Tellez, prompting his removal. He finished with two hits against, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of an inning. He threw 19 pitches (11 strikes – 57.9 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (10.5 SwStr%). Since May 17, he’s given up multiple hits in five of 10 outings while converting seven saves with a 1.95 WHIP (12 hits plus five walks over 8.2 IP).
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
June 2, 2024
(RP | MIN): Locking down his tenth save, Jhoan Durán retired the side and recorded a strikeout in Houston.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Securing his tenth save, Jhoan Durán fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded a strikeout while preserving a one-run win in Houston. He faced the 7-8-9 lineup pocket, though Jose Altuve struck out as a pinch-hitter. Durán threw 17 pitches (12 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s converted a save in seven straight appearances, posting a 5:2 K:BB while allowing at least a run during three games with a 1.43 WHIP over 6.1 innings. Griffin Jax notched his 11th hold, retiring the side in the eighth. Steven Okert collected his second win, stranding two runners despite giving up a hit during his two-thirds of the seventh. Jorge Alcala logged 1.1 scoreless, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out one.
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
May 30, 2024
(RP | MIN): After an error extended his outing, Jhoan Durán recorded his ninth save despite allowing two unearned runs on a hit and a walk, preserving a one-run win over the Royals.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Appearing for the fifth time in seven days, Jhoan Durán held on for his ninth save. He issued a one-out walk, then Kyle Isbel reached on an error. After inducing a groundout, a runner advanced on defensive indifference, and Bobby Witt Jr. produced a two-RBI single. Durán closed out the win with a game-ending groundout but gave up a hit and a walk on 20 pitches (65 Strike%) with two whiffs. He’s allowed a run in five of eight outings and produced a 5:4 K:BB through seven innings. Griffin Jax secured his tenth hold, allowing a hit and striking out two in the eighth. Jorge Alcala fired a clean seventh, striking out two for his fourth hold. Caleb Thielbar collected his second win, stranding a runner and issuing a walk while recording an out in the sixth.
Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
May 28, 2024
(RP | MIN): Appearing for the fourth time in five days, Jhoan Durán navigated around consecutive hits, opening his outing with a caught stealing, a strikeout, and a game-ending groundout, securing his eighth save.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Logging his fourth appearance in five days, Jhoan Durán held on for his eighth save, navigating around two hits and recording a strikeout. His outing began with a lead-off Salvador Perez double and a single by Adam Frazier, putting runners on the corners. But, Durán bore down after the first out on a caught stealing with a strikeout and a game-ending groundout, preserving the two-run win. He threw 16 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Griffin Jax fired a clean eighth, striking out two for his ninth hold. Josh Staumont retired the side in the seventh, recording his first hold. Jorge Alcala tossed a clean sixth, striking out two while securing his third hold.
Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
May 27, 2024
(RP | MIN): Working around soft contact, Jhoan Durán recorded his seventh hold despite letting both inherited runners score, and an unearned run on his ledger, scattering two hits along with a hit batter.
Anaylsis
Minnesota Twins – Taking over with two runners on and two outs in the top of the ninth, leading by four, Jhoan Durán preserved the win with his seventh save. However, his outing began with a hit-by-pitch followed by an infield single, scoring a run. Although he induced a groundout to third, Willi Castro made a throwing error, scoring two of three runners, before a game-ending infield groundout by Bobby Witt Jr. It was all soft contact. Still, Durán allowed two hits and an unearned run over one-third of the ninth. Cole Sands gave up three hits and three earned runs during his two-thirds of the ninth. Griffin Jax tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and striking out one.
Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
May 25, 2024
(RP | MIN): Closing out a three-run eighth inning rally against Texas, Jhoan Durán retired the side in the ninth, and recorded two strikeouts while converting his sixth save.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Capping a come-from-behind rally in the bottom of the eighth, Jhoan Durán locked down his sixth save with a clean top of the ninth, striking out one. He threw eight pitches (75 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (37.5 SwStr%). After being used as the HLR earlier this month, he’s converted three straight saves and recorded a game-finished in his last six outings. Cole Sands collected his second win, tossing two clean frames and striking out two. Kody Funderburk allowed a hit, an earned run, and two walks while striking out one in the sixth.
Adjusted Hierarchy (mostly linear): Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
May 24, 2024
(RP | MIN): Preserving a one-run win over Texas, Jhoan Durán navigated around a two-out walk and a stolen base with a game-ending groundout for his fifth save.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Handed a one-run lead in the top of the ninth, Jhoan Durán recorded his fifth save, working around a two-out walk with a game-ending ground out by Marcus Semien. Durán threw 15 pitches (7 strikes – 46.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff with one strikeout in his outing. He snapped a three-game streak of allowing at least a run and has converted his last two save chances. Griffin Jax turned in a clean top of the eighth for his eighth hold. Caleb Thielbar retired the side in the seventh, securing his fifth hold. Steven Okert notched his third hold with a clean sixth.
Hierarchy remains: *Jhoan Durán (HLR/PSS) | *Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
*An HLR/PSS means he’s the preferred save option, but will be used in the highest-leverage moment in games when deemed necessary.
May 22, 2024
(RP | MIN): Despite allowing a home run for a third straight appearance, Jhoan Durán closed out a one-run win in Washington for his fourth save.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – The good news was that Jhoan Durán received the save chance and converted his fourth during a one-run win over Washington. However, he did allow a home run for a third straight outing. He also gave up a single but stranded the runner with a strikeout and a game-ending groundout. He threw 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%). Caleb Thielbar secured his fourth hold, retiring the side and striking out one in the eighth. Griffin Jax notched his seventh hold, retiring both batters and stranding one of two runners. Kody Funderburk allowed two hits, an earned run, and struck out one during one-third of the seventh. Steven Okert collected his first win, firing 1.1 clean frames, striking out one, and tipping the bullpen cart driver.
Hierarchy remains: *Jhoan Durán (HLR/PSS) | *Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
*An HLR/PSS means he’s the preferred save option, but will be used in the highest-leverage moment in games when deemed necessary.
May 19, 2024
(RP | MIN): Taking over a tied game in the bottom of the ninth, Jhoan Durán issued a one-out walk and then retired José Ramírez on a flyout. With two outs, a wild pitch moved up the runner, prompting an intentional walk of Josh Naylor. Before a walk-off three-run home run by Will Brennan handed the Twins reliever his second loss, both in this series. He’s allowed at least a run and a home run over his last two appearances.
Hierarchy remains: *Jhoan Durán (HLR/PSS) | *Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
*An HLR/PSS means he’s the preferred save option, but will be used in the highest-leverage moment in games when deemed necessary.
May 17, 2024
(RP | MIN): With the game tied, Jhoan Durán entered against the Guardians’ top of the lineup, matching up with José Ramírez, but the move backfired resulting in his first loss after giving up a go-ahead solo home run against him after recording two quick outs.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Taking over a tied game in the bottom of the eighth, Jhoan Durán allowed two hits, including a go-ahead solo home run by José Ramírez, resulting in his first loss. This also marked his first earned run allowed this season through his first eight appearances. He threw 10 pitches (80 Strike%) and produced two whiffs. Griffin Jax fired a clean seventh, striking out two. Steven Okert served up a game-tying home run by David Fry, scoring an inherited runner and putting one earned on his ledger.
Hierarchy remains: *Jhoan Durán (HLR/PSS) | *Griffin Jax | *Caleb Thielbar
*An HLR/PSS means he’s the preferred save option, but will be used in the highest-leverage moment in games when deemed necessary.
May 12, 2024
(RP | MIN): Remaining on brand, Rocco Baldelli called upon Jhoan Durán with Vlad Guerrero Jr.’s lineup pocket due in the ninth, however, it was a non-save outing. He turned in a scoreless outing despite hitting a batter (Bo Bichette), throwing 14 pitches (50 Strike%), and inducing one whiff. He’s been scoreless over seven appearances this season with eight strikeouts versus one walk over seven innings.
Hierarchy remains: *Jhoan Durán (HLR/PSS) | *Griffin Jax | *Caleb Thielbar
*An HLR/PSS means he’s the preferred save option, but will be used in the highest-leverage moment in games when deemed necessary.
May 11, 2024
(RP | MIN): Taking over in the seventh inning, Jay Jackson suffered his second loss, giving up two hits and two earned runs during one-third of an inning.
Hierarchy remains: *Jhoan Durán (HLR/PSS) | *Griffin Jax | *Caleb Thielbar
*An HLR/PSS means he’s the preferred save option, but will be used in the highest-leverage moment in games when deemed necessary.
May 10, 2024
(RP | MIN): Taking over in the ninth, Griffin Jax recorded his fifth save despite allowing two hits and a walk while striking out one during a win in Toronto.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Once again, Rocco Baldelli has assigned lineup pockets and not a linear pathway toward a save, continuing to frustrate fantasy managers. Griffin Jax held on for his fifth save, navigating around a two-out single by Bo Bichette, a walk, and an RBI single by Isiah Kiner-Falefa, before inducing a game-ending ricochet comebacker, caught by Carlos Santana. Jax threw 26 pitches (16 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). Jhoan Durán faced the Vlad Guerrero Jr. lineup pocket and tossed a scoreless eighth despite walking one, throwing 13 pitches (6 strikes – 46.2 Strike%) with one whiff during his third hold.
Hierarchy remains: *Jhoan Durán (HLR/PSS) | *Griffin Jax | *Caleb Thielbar
*An HLR/PSS means he’s the preferred save option, but will be used in the highest-leverage moment in games when deemed necessary.
May 9, 2024
(RP | MIN): Making his season debut, Josh Staumont tossed a scoreless top of the ninth, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out three finishing a lopsided win. He threw 26 pitches (15 strikes – 57.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).
Hierarchy remains: *Jhoan Durán (HLR/PSS) | *Griffin Jax | *Caleb Thielbar
*An HLR/PSS means he’s the preferred save option, but will be used in the highest-leverage moment in games when deemed necessary.
May 8, 2024
(RP | MIN): With the lineup pocket working in his favor, Jhoan Durán locked down his third save with a clean ninth and struck out one against the top of Seattle’s batting order.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Benefiting from the top of Seattle’s batting order cycling into the ninth inning, Jhoan Durán nailed down his third save, firing a clean ninth and striking out one. He threw 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He’s recorded five straight scoreless outings since his debut off of the injured list with eight strikeouts versus zero walks with three saves and two holds. Griffin Jax gave up a hit, an earned run, and a walk during his 1.2 innings, securing his sixth hold. Caleb Thielbar worked a combined inning, stranding a runner in the sixth but allowing a hit and an earned run while striking out two, resulting in his third hold.
Hierarchy remains: *Jhoan Durán (HLR/PSS) | *Griffin Jax | *Caleb Thielbar
*An HLR/PSS means he’s the preferred save option, but will be used in the highest-leverage moment in games when deemed necessary.
May 7, 2024
(RP | MIN): Suffering his first loss, Jorge Alcala allowed four hits, four earned runs, and walking two with one strikeout during his two innings of relief against Seattle.
Updated hierarchy: *Jhoan Durán (HLR/PSS) | *Griffin Jax | *Caleb Thielbar
*An HLR/PSS means he’s the preferred save option, but will be used in the highest-leverage moment in games when deemed necessary.
May 6, 2024
(RP | MIN): Firing a clean top of the ninth, and striking out two, Caleb Thielbar nailed down his third save during a two-run win over Seattle.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – A fantasy player’s nightmare has manifested itself in this leverage ladder. Despite his dominance as the preferred save option last year, Jhoan Durán has been deployed as the HLR since returning from the injured list. On Monday, he faced the 9-1-2 lineup pocket of Seattle, obliterating the side on 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and generating two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%) while striking out two, lined up opposite of Julio Rodríguez. Caleb Thielbar benefited with the save chance, securing his third with a clean ninth, and recording two strikeouts. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). Griffin Jax collected his third win, and second blown save, giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two in the seventh.
Updated hierarchy: *Jhoan Durán (HLR/PSS) | *Griffin Jax | *Caleb Thielbar
*An HLR/PSS means he’s the preferred save option, but will be used in the highest-leverage moment in games when deemed necessary.
May 4, 2024
(RP | MIN): Benefiting from a match-up-based approach, Cole Sands recorded his second save of the season, retiring the 6-7-8 hitters from Boston in order.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Handed a two-run lead in the top of the ninth, Cole Sands recorded his second save of the season, retiring Boston’s 6-7-8 lineup pocket in order. He threw nine pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Jhoan Durán operated like an HLR in this contest, facing the 3-4-5 batters, working around a one-out single with a strikeout and a flyout. He secured his first hold and recorded two strikeouts throwing 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%). Steven Okert took over with two runners on and two outs in the eighth, issued a walk then struck out Rafael Devers for his second hold. Jorge Alcala gave up two hits and a walk over two-thirds of the seventh.
Updated hierarchy: Jhoan Durán (HLR/PSS) | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
*An HLR/PSS means he’s the preferred save option, but will be used in the highest-leverage moment in games when deemed necessary.
May 3, 2024
(RP | MIN): Handed a three-run lead, Jhoan Durán fired a clean top of the ninth, and recorded two strikeouts for his second save, extending his team’s win streak to 11.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Nailing down his team’s 11th consecutive win, and his second save of the season, Jhoan Durán fired a clean top of the ninth, recording two strikeouts. He threw 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%). He’s only made two appearances this season but has secured a save in each. Caleb Thielbar let both inherited runners score, allowing a double by Rafael Devers, and retired a batter in the eighth. Cole Sands gave up a hit, two earned runs, and a hit-batter while striking out one over two-thirds of the eighth. Griffin Jax notched his fifth hold, retiring the side in the seventh, all via strikeout, throwing 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) with five whiffs (45.5 SwStr%).
Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
April 30, 2024
(RP | MIN): Making his season debut, Jhoan Durán worked a scoreless bottom of the ninth, giving up a hit and striking out one for his first save.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Fresh off the injured list and right back into the high-leverage mix, Jhoan Durán recorded his first save of the season, preserving a one-run win over the White Sox. He worked around a lead-off single by Tommy Pham with two groundouts and a game-ending strikeout of Andrew Vaughn. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%). Caleb Thielbar collected his first win, retiring both batters in the eighth and stranding a runner. Cole Sands suffered his first blown save, allowing two hits, including a game-tying solo home run by Andrew Benintendi over one-third of the eighth. Jay Jackson logged 1.1 scoreless innings, striking out one.
Confirmed hierarchy: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
April 29, 2024
(RP | MIN): Handed a one-run lead, Caleb Thielbar recorded his second save, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out during a scoreless bottom of the ninth, extending his team’s win streak to eight games.
Analysis
Minnesota Twins – Provided a one-run lead in Chicago, Caleb Thielbar secured his second save of the season, working around a hit and a walk while striking out two during a scoreless bottom of the ninth, extending his team’s win streak to eight games. He threw 19 pitches (13 strikes – 68.4 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (21.1 SwStr%), including a game-ending strikeout of Korey Lee with runners on the corners. Griffin Jax collected his second win. He tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one. Brock Stewart fired a clean seventh, striking out two on 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) with three whiffs (20 SwStr%).
Assured of a winning record in April, the Twins will get their closer back as well. Jhoan Durán remains on track for activation before Tuesday’s game.
Projected hierarchy: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Caleb Thielbar
April 26, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Taking over with two runners on and two outs in the ninth, Caleb Thielbar allowed an RBI single by Zach Neto, then induced a game-ending groundout by Mike Trout, finishing off a one-run win and his first save of the season. It’s been tough sledding for the high-leverage reliever returning from injury, allowing at least an earned run in three of his six appearances, but he’s a fixture in the late innings. Matt Bowman was credited with his third hold, logging 1.1 innings, giving up a hit, an earned run, and three walks while striking out two.
St. Paul’s game was postponed, pushing Jhoan Durán‘s rehab outing to Saturday.
Hierarchy remains: *Griffin Jax | *Brock Stewart | Caleb Thielbar
* =closer-by-committee
April 25, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Forced into action in the top of the ninth, Griffin Jax inherited a bases-loaded situation with one out. He retired his first batter faced via strikeout, then let an inherited runner score on a fielding error by Carlos Santana, then induced a game-ending groundout by Andrew Vaughn, closing out a three-run win for his fourth save. Jax threw nine pitches (66.7 Strike%) while producing two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). Steven Okert created the mess, allowing a hit, an unearned run, a hit batter, and a walk over one-third of the ninth. Brock Stewart notched his sixth hold, tossing a scoreless eighth while giving up a hit and a walk while striking out two. Caleb Thielbar fired a clean seventh for his second hold. Cole Sands collected his first win, issuing a walk during a scoreless sixth, ahead of his team’s three-run rally in the bottom of the frame.
Updated Hierarchy: *Griffin Jax | *Brock Stewart | Caleb Thielbar
* =closer-by-committee
April 24, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Nailing down his third save, Griffin Jax fired a clean top of the ninth, recording one strikeout. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted in his last two appearances and owns a modest three-game scoreless streak with five strikeouts versus zero walks over three innings. Brock Stewart secured his fifth hold, tossing a clean eighth and striking out one. Matt Bowman retired the side in the seventh for his second hold.
Hierarchy remains: *Griffin Jax | *Brock Stewart | Steven Okert
* =closer-by-committee
April 23, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Benefiting from a walk-off rally in the bottom of the ninth, Jay Jackson collected his first win of the season. He logged two innings, giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out four. Steven Okert gave up a hit and an earned run, with one strikeout in the seventh. Cole Sands tossed a scoreless sixth, yielding a hit and striking out one. Kody Funderburk fired a clean fifth, striking out one on 15 pitches (8 strikes – 53.3 Strike%) with two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%).
Hierarchy remains: *Griffin Jax | *Brock Stewart | Steven Okert
* =closer-by-committee
April 20, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Securing his second save, Griffin Jax fired a clean ninth, striking out two on 12 pitches (75 Strike%) with one whiff. He’s been frustrating from a fantasy perspective but he owns a 1.11 WHIP with 13 strikeouts over his first nine innings as his team’s HLR. Matt Bowman stranded a runner and retired his only batter faced in the eighth for his first hold. Kody Funderburk allowed a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one over two-thirds of the eighth during his second hold. Cole Sands let one of two inherited runners score during his two-thirds of the seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one for his first hold. Steven Okert gave up a hit, an earned run, and a walk over one-third of the seventh, getting credit for his first hold.
Hierarchy remains: *Griffin Jax | *Brock Stewart | *Steven Okert
* =closer-by-committee
April 19, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Suffering his first loss, Caleb Thielbar allowed two hits, including a go-ahead RBI single by Wenceel Pérez resulting in an earned run, and issued a walk while striking out two in the top of the ninth. Griffin Jax navigated around two hits for a scoreless eighth, recording two strikeouts. He threw 21 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and induced four whiffs (19 SwStr%). Brock Stewart tossed a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one. Kody Funderburk retired both batters in the sixth, stranding two runners.
Hierarchy remains: *Griffin Jax | *Brock Stewart | *Steven Okert
* =closer-by-committee
April 17, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Suffering his second loss, Griffin Jax gave up a one-out single and a walk-off two-run home run by Cedric Mullins in the bottom of the ninth. Brock Stewart stranded two runners and logged 1.1 scoreless innings giving up a hit while striking out three. Steven Okert was tagged with his second blown save, allowing three hits and an earned run while striking out one over two-thirds of the seventh.
Hierarchy remains: *Griffin Jax | *Brock Stewart | *Steven Okert
* =closer-by-committee
April 14, 2024
Minnesota Twins – During the seventh inning, Brock Stewart secured his fourth hold, walking one in a scoreless outing. Making his first appearance of the season, Caleb Thielbar gave up three hits, including a solo home run by Javier Báez, and departed with two runners on with one out, getting credit for his first hold. Griffin Jax let both inherited runners score, allowing a two-RBI double by Mark Canha and then a go-ahead single by Spencer Torkelson. Jax suffered his first loss and first blown save, giving up two hits and an earned run while striking out one in two-thirds of the eighth.
Hierarchy remains: *Griffin Jax | *Brock Stewart | *Steven Okert
* =closer-by-committee
April 13, 2024
Minnesota Twins – (Game 1): Handed a seven-run lead in the bottom of the 12th, Jay Jackson allowed a hit and an unearned run, wrapping up the contest. Jorge Alcala collected his first win, tossing two innings, giving up a hit, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out two. Brock Stewart tossed a scoreless ninth, issuing a walk and recording a strikeout. Griffin Jax faced the 3-4-5 lineup pocket and retired them in order on 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) without a whiff. Steven Okert fired a clean seventh, striking out two. (Game 2): Finishing off the sweep, Cole Sands fired 2.1 clean innings, recording three strikeouts for his first save of the season, and second of his career. He threw 28 pitches (19 strikes – 67.9 Strike%) and induced three whiffs. Kody Funderburk was credited with his first hold, allowing two hits and striking out two over two-thirds of the seventh.
Hierarchy remains: *Griffin Jax | *Brock Stewart | *Steven Okert
* =closer-by-committee
April 10, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Recording his first major league save, Steven Okert navigated around a one-out pinch-hit single by Will Smith during a scoreless ninth while striking out one. He threw 16 pitches (9 strikes – 56.3 Strike%) and induced four whiffs (25 SwStr%). He entered with two left-handed hitters in the scheduled 7-8-9 lineup pocket, but the Dodgers countered with two right-handed hitters. Griffin Jax fired a clean eighth, matching up with the 4-5-6 batters, striking out the side on 16 pitches (10 strikes – 62.5 Strike%) and producing three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%) during his third hold. Brock Stewart tossed a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and a walk for his first hold. Jorge Alcala stranded a runner and struck out one over two-thirds scoreless in the sixth while securing his first hold. Kody Funderburk collected his first win, stranding two runners in the fifth, and allowing a hit over two-thirds combined innings.
Updated hierarchy: *Griffin Jax | *Brock Stewart | *Steven Okert
* =closer-by-committee
April 8, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Entering in the sixth, Steven Okert was tagged with his first blown save, allowing three hits and an earned run while striking out one. Suffering his first loss, Jay Jackson allowed two hits, both solo home runs, and recorded a strikeout in the top of the seventh. Griffin Jax worked a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one. He threw 21 pitches (11 strikes – 52.3 Strike%) with two whiffs. Kody Funderburk tossed a scoreless top of the ninth, yielding a hit and striking out two.
Hierarchy remains: *Griffin Jax | *Brock Stewart | Steven Okert
*=closer committee
April 3, 2024
Minnesota Twins – After his team tacked a run on their lead removing the save chance, Steven Okert tossed a scoreless bottom of the ninth, walking one and striking out three, closing out a come-from-behind four-run victory. Griffin Jax fired a clean eighth, striking out one on 18 pitches (11 strikes – 61.1 Strike%) with two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%), matching up with Milwaukee’s 2-3-4 lineup pocket for his first hold. Brock Stewart notched his second hold, retiring the side in order in the seventh, recording two strikeouts. Daniel Duarte collected his first win, logging two innings while giving up a solo home run (Jackson Chourio), and striking out one.
March 30, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Once again matched up with the top of the Royals lineup, Griffin Jax worked around a one-out walk (Bobby Witt Jr.) for a scoreless eighth, and striking out one while collecting his first win. He threw 12 pitches (7 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) and generated one whiff. Through two games, he owns a 1.00 WHIP with two strikeouts against two walks over two innings. After warming up for a potential save chance, Brock Stewart turned in a scoreless ninth, preserving the four-run win, recording all three outs via strikeout on 22 pitches (68.2 Strike%) with two whiffs. Steven Okert tossed a scoreless combined inning, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one. Jorge Alcala retired both batters he faced in the seventh inning.
March 28, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Nailing down his first save, Griffin Jax worked around a lead-off walk (Bobby Witt Jr.) by retiring the next three batters and recording one strikeout. He threw 18 pitches (11 strikes – 61.1 Strike%) while generating three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). Brock Stewart tossed a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit for his first hold.
March 26, 2024
Minnesota Twins – In a column highlighting how Griffin Jax has improved his arsenal, Do-Hyoung Kim of MLB.com also shared Rocco Baldelli’s leverage plans with Jhoan Durán sidelined at the onset of the season. Jax will be a high-leverage option, but will share save chances with Brock Stewart, which forces an adjustment of our projected hierarchy. Plan on Jax being the HLR (highest-leveraged reliever), facing the toughest lineup pocket in the eighth or ninth inning, no exclusively deployed in the ninth. If this happens, Stewart would receive the save chance. Plan accordingly.
March 23, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Even though his line says two-thirds of an inning, Griffin Jax faced three batters between the fifth and sixth innings, recording two outs then being removed after a batter reached on a fielding error. Through eight outings this spring, he owns a 0.39 WHIP with 12 strikeouts and no walks over 7.2 innings.
March 18, 2024
Minnesota Twins – In a very unfortunate update, Jhoan Durán will open the season on the injured list with an oblique strain, reported on “X” by Betsy Helfand. It’s being described as a moderate strain, but these soft-tissue injuries can be slippery. This puts Griffin Jax into the spotlight as the obvious candidate to replace him atop the bullpen hierarchy. He owns a minuscule 0.33 WHIP through six appearances with 10 strikeouts versus zero walks this spring.
March 3, 2024
Minnesota Twins – Do-Hyoung Park published his first roster projection for the Twins on MLB.com. No major surprises, except it does not include Jorge Alcala. He’s had a strong spring with three scoreless appearances, a 0.67 WHIP, and three strikeouts versus one walk. However, he has minor league options remaining, which means he will be the first reliever promoted if an injury occurs unless he forces his way onto the Opening Day roster.
September 30, 2023
Minnesota Twins — With a 1 run lead the Twins turned to Emilio Pagan in the 9th inning. He converted for his first save on the season. Pagan isn’t likely to be in line for any more saves this year, as he is slated to start today’s game, but the Twins will likely take it easy with the back end of their bullpen as they have locked in their playoff position already.
Hierarchy remains: Duran | Jax | Pagan.
September 28, 2023
Minnesota Twins — Jhoan Duran was used in the seventh inning of a tight game (and struck out the side), so Dallas Keuchel got the eighth and ninth for Minnesota. Griffin Jax relieved him with one out to go and picked up a very vulturey save. In other news, Brock Stewart returned after a few months on the injured list and could return to high-leverage work just in time for the playoffs.
Hierarchy remains: Duran | Jax | Pagan.
September 21, 2023
Minnesota Twins — Jhoan Duran came into the game in the eighth inning to keep Minnesota within a run, so when Alexis Diaz gave up three in the ninth, it was Griffin Jax called on for the save.
Hierarchy remains: Duran | Jax | Pagan.
August 29, 2023
Minnesota Twins – The Vulture Save Watch correctly predicted an off-day for Jhoan Duran, but it certainly did not foresee Josh Winder pitching three hitless innings to earn his first career save. He won’t normally factor into the late-inning plans.
Hierarchy remains: Duran | Jax | Pagan.
August 25, 2023
Minnesota Twins – The Vulture Save Watch nailed this one! Griffin Jax earned his second save of the year Thursday after Jhoan Duran threw 34 pitches the previous day and was presumed to be unavailable.
Hierarchy remains: Duran | Jax | Pagan.
August 12, 2023
Minnesota Twins – Outfielder Jordan Luplow, who pitched the 8th inning for the Twins in a blowout loss, was heartily booed when doing his best Craig Kimbrel impression on the Citizens Bank Ballpark mound. We found it amusing, though, and so did Kimbrel. Keep being you, Jordan.
Hierarchy remains: Duran | Jax | Pagan.
June 29, 2023
Minnesota Twins — Tendinitis in the throwing elbow put Brock Stewart on the IL, where he joins Jorge Lopez (mental health). This leaves Emilio Pagan and Jovani Moran inheriting the middle innings, while Jhoan Duran is now the unquestioned closer ahead of Griffin Jax.
Updated hierarchy: Duran | Jax | Pagan.
June 15, 2023
Minnesota Twins — Griffin Jax has put together 10 straight scoreless appearances for the Twins (9.2 IP, 3 H, 12 K), including Wednesday night’s save after Jhoan Duran was used in the eighth. Jax is right there with Duran, Brock Stewart, and Jorge Lopez in the Twins’ committee.
Updated hierarchy: *Duran | Stewart | Jax.
* = closer-by-committee
May 28, 2023
Minnesota Twins — The Twins used Jhoan Duran in the 8th inning against the 2-3-4 hitters and then went with Jorge Lopez to start the 9th. Lopez really struggled as he allowed three hits, including a homerun, and hit another batter without recording any outs. Brock Stewart relieved Lopez and was able to retire three of the four batters he faced to pick up his first save of the season. Stewart has pitched 14 scoreless innings so far this year and although he walks too many batters (11 walks in 14 innings), the sparkling ERA is enough to get Stewart on the hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: *Duran | Lopez | Stewart.
* = closer-by-committee
May 12, 2023
Minnesota Twins — Jhoan Duran did not pitch in a save situation Thursday, presumably because he tossed 2.0 innings (just 17 pitches) the night before, though that Wednesday appearance was his first since the previous Friday. Jorge Lopez, instead, struck out two for his third save. There’s a committee label here for a reason, folks.
Hierarchy remains: *Duran | Lopez | Jax.
* = closer-by-committee
April 29, 2023
Minnesota Twins — Jhoan Duran had an immigration appointment yesterday, which prevented him from being with the team. This left the clear save opportunity to Jorge Lopez, and although he gave up a couple hits he gave up no runs and got his second save of the year. Duran’s return date is not certain, so expect Lopez to get the bulk of the save chances until he returns.
Hierarchy remains: *Duran | Lopez | Jax.
* = closer-by-committee
April 20, 2023
Minnesota Twins — Brent Headrick’s MLB debut came Wednesday, and for protecting a big lead for three innings, he left Fenway Park with a three-inning save. If you had Headrick in your lineup yesterday, congratulations are in order — because you are Brent Headrick.
Hierarchy remains: *Duran | Lopez | Thielbar.
* = closer-by-committee
April 9, 2023
Minnesota Twins – After Jovani Moran made a mess of things in the 9th inning by allowing two runs to score and allowing two more runners to reach base, Jhoan Duran came on to close things out. Duran struck out the only batter he faced to pick up his second save of the season. Jorge Lopez struck out the side in the 7th inning to pick up his second hold of the season. Lopez’s only save of the season came on a night when Duran was unavailable so it looks like Duran could be close to kicking the committee tag.
Hierarchy remains: *Duran | Lopez | Thielbar.
* = closer-by-committee
April 2, 2023
Minnesota Twins – Jorge Lopez pitched a perfect 9th inning for his first save of the season. Jhoan Duran was unavailable because he slept funny the night before. We will see if Lopez continues to steal save chances from Duran when he is avaialble.
Hierarchy remains: *Duran | Lopez | Thielbar.
* = closer-by-committee
March 31, 2023
Minnesota Twins – Jhoan Duran picked up his first save of 2023, pitching a clean ninth inning Thursday in a 2-0 win. His main competition for the closer gig, Jorge Lopez, pitched the last two outs of the seventh inning.
Hierarchy remains: *Duran | Lopez | Thielbar.
* = closer-by-committee
March 13, 2023
Minnesota Twins – Jhoan Duran was electric out of the Twins’ bullpen last year as he recorded 89 strikeouts in just 67.2 innings. However, he was often needed before the 9th inning and that limited him to just 8 saves last year. Duran has all the makings of a dominant closer, but with Jorge Lopez returning, the Twins could prefer to use Duran in a more flexible role instead of as a traditional closer. We still think Duran is the best option, but we think he will share save chances with Lopez, especially at the beginning of the season.
Starting 2023 hierarchy: *Duran | Lopez | Thielbar.
* = closer-by-committee
Holds candidates: Lopez, Caleb Thielbar, Griffin Jax.
September 19, 2022
Minnesota Twins – Jorge Lopez almost certainly wasn’t going to pitch after a 32-pitch outing Saturday, but regardless, we’re moving this into a committee after Jhoan Duran locked down his 8th save of the season in Lopez’s absence on Sunday. Lopez has had some control issues since being acquired at the trade deadline, and due to some weird usage and an extended Minnesota slump, he hasn’t gotten a save since August 29. Duran, meanwhile, has a 1.78 ERA and continues to do stuff like this, as he has all year.
Updated hierarchy: *Duran | Lopez | Fulmer.
* = closer-by-committee
September 16, 2022
Minnesota Twins – Jhoan Duran allowed two hits and struck out two but held the Royals scoreless in the ninth on Thursday for his seventh save. Jorge Lopez pitched the previous day and manager Rocco Baldelli apparently avoided going to him in a back-to-back situation as Minnesota hopes to keep their top late-inning arms fresh for a potential playoff run.
Hierarchy remains: Lopez | Duran | Fulmer.
September 9, 2022
Minnesota Twins – Jorge Lopez was called into the eighth inning Thursday, but the situation certainly called for it given the two-run lead and Aaron Judge due up. Judge doubled and another man reached before Lopez allowed a fielder’s choice and a run-scoring wild pitch. Caleb Theilbar struck out Giancarlo Stanton to end the threat, but the Twins still had to get through the final inning. Theilbar stayed on to start the ninth with a one-run lead, yielding a groundout and allowing a single before he was yanked for Michael Fulmer. Fulmer loaded the bases on a double and an intentional walk of Judge but retired the next two hitters for his third save.
Hierarchy remains: Lopez | Duran | Fulmer.
August 16, 2022
Minnesota Twins – The Twins have had two save opportunities since acquiring Jorge Lopez, and all three have gone to the former Oriole — two of which he has converted successfully. We think that’s enough to remove the asterisk, though we’ll be quick to bring it back should the Twins give Jhoan Duran a chance soon.
Updated hierarchy: Lopez | Duran | Fulmer.
August 4, 2022
Minnesota Twins — Former Oriole Jorge Lopez came out for the ninth on Wednesday and picked up his 20th save of the year, and first with his new team. He could kick the committee asterisk with a few more outings like that.
Hierarchy remains: *Lopez | Duran | Fulmer.
* = closer-by-committee
August 3, 2022
Minnesota Twins – It was a busy day for the Twins, as they added Baltimore closer Jorge Lopez and Detroit setup man Michael Fulmer. Manager Rocco Baldelli said that he expects Lopez to pitch “a fair amount in the ninth inning.” We expect Lopez to get the bulk of save chances, but that Jhoan Duran and Fulmer will be in the mix as well depending on matchups.
Updated hierarchy: *Lopez | Duran | Fulmer.
* = closer-by-committee
August 2, 2022
Minnesota Twins – The Twins traded for Orioles closer Jorge Lopez. We’ll put Lopez at the top of this committee and see how the Twins plan to utilize both Lopez and Jhoan Duran.
Updated hierarchy: *Lopez | Duran | Pagan.
* = closer-by-committee
July 17, 2022
Minnesota Twins – Jhoan Duran struck out three over two scoreless innings to pick up his 6th save of the season. The Twins have not had many saves opportunities recently but Duran had a great first half of the season so we will see if he can establish himself as the primary closer and kick the asterisk as the season progresses.
Hierarchy remains: *Duran | Pagan | Jax.
* = closer-by-committee
July 11, 2022
Minnesota Twins – With the 3-4-5 hitters due up, Jhoan Duran was sent out for the 8th inning, leaving the 9th for Tyler Duffey. Duffey converted for his second save of the year.
Hierarchy remains: *Duran | Pagan | Jax.
* = closer-by-committee
June 24, 2022
Minnesota Twins — Jhoan Duran was dominant Thursday (3 Ks in 1.1 IP) and on his way to a 2-inning save when manager Rocco Baldelli pulled his best reliever with one out in the ninth inning in a 1-0 game, much to the dismay of the home crowd. Lefty Caleb Thielbar was called upon to face lefty Andres Gimenez, but allowed a double to make things interesting. He managed to record the final two outs, though, for his first career save. Thielbar had a disastrous April (12.79 ERA), but he has a 3.79 ERA since May 1, so there has been marked improvement. He has seven holds and could continue to get late-inning looks if the matchup is right.
Hierarchy remains: *Duran | Pagan | Jax.
* = closer-by-committee
June 23, 2022
Minnesota Twins — The local paper wrote up Emilio Pagan as the Twins’ pseudo-closer on Tuesday, but since then, the 31-year-old has blown the lead in back-to-back games. The article quotes Rocco Baldelli as saying that he won’t commit to one particular closer, but we think Jhoan Duran is now more likely to get the next save chance. Behind Duran and Pagan, Griffin Jax has emerged as a solid option for Minnesota.
Updated hierarchy: *Duran | Pagan | Jax.
* = closer-by-committee
June 6, 2022
Minnesota Twins – Initially leading by 5 runs in the 9th inning, Tyler Duffey made things interesting, allowing three earned runs while only recording two outs. Fortunately for the Twins, Jovani Moran was able to shut the door. (Jhoan Duran had already pitched and Emilio Pagan wasn’t with the team in Canada because he’s not vaccinated.) Moran hasn’t been in the bigs for long, but he’s posted impressive numbers across his first six outings (6.2 IP, 0 ER, 12 Ks).
Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Duran | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
June 3, 2022
Minnesota Twins – Emilio Pagan was placed on the restricted list and will not pitch this weekend in Toronto. Jhoan Duran will be the man for saves this weekend. Unrelated to the restricted list placement, Pagan pitched poorly on Thursday, giving up two runs to blow the save and take the loss.
Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Duran | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
May 25, 2022
Minnesota Twins – Emilio Pagan threw 28 pitches over two innings on Monday, so Jhoan Duran got the ninth inning on Tuesday and converted his second save over the last three days.
Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Duran | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
May 23, 2022
Minnesota Twins – Jhoan Duran picked up his 3rd save of the season with a scoreless 9th inning. This remains a committee, with Emilio Pagan still having a small edge on save-chance-likelihood going forward.
Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Duran | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
May 22, 2022
Minnesota Twins – The Twins scored 4 runs in the top of the 9th inning to take away a save situation, but this update is mostly about 38 year old Joe Smith, who picked up his 8th hold of the year, and 6th of his last 7 appearances. Smith is one of the few relievers who has been pitching as long as Closer Monkey has existed. He has never recorded a ton of saves, but has been a reliable arm over the course of his 18 major league seasons. Now pitching for his 8th team, he has found some magic this year, still holding a 0.00 ERA. Smith probably isn’t a true candidate to close games out, but for the surging Twins he could be a steady source of holds in leagues where that is valuable.
Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Duran | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
May 17, 2022
Minnesota Twins – Tyler Duffey got the save on Monday, as Emilio Pagan and Jhoan Duran, who had both seen heavy workloads recently, both got the night off. The latter two remain 1 and 1a in this bullpen.
Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Duran | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
May 8, 2022
Minnesota Twins – Jhoan Duran recorded the last six outs, five via strikeout, to preserve a 1-0 Twins victory and earn his second save of the season. Emilio Pagan picked up the save on Friday so this is still a committee, but it’s hard not to get excited about Duran, especially when he keeps hitting over 102 MPH on the radar gun. Pagan may see more save chances in the short-term, but Duran certainly has to potential to be a dominant closer for a long time.
Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Duran | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
May 3, 2022
Minnesota Twins – Monday marked the first career save for Jhoan Duran, who pitched a perfect 9th inning after a clean 8th from Emilio Pagan. This is still a committee situation, with neither Duran nor Pagan distinguishing themselves as the clear top option thus far.
Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Duran | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
April 29, 2022
Minnesota Twins – Your nontraditional vulture save of the day goes to Griffin Jax, who completed the final three innings of a 7-1 win for his first save. The Twins’ situation is messy, but Jax likely won’t be competing for many more save chances this season.
Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Duran | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
April 22, 2022
Minnesota Twins – For the first time this season, the Twins have a save! Emilio Pagan did the honors and by default has a leg up in this complicated committee. Pagan has been sharp in his four games, allowing just one run to go with a 0.75 WHIP. Keep an eye on veteran Joe Smith in this bullpen, too. He has two holds already and has not allowed a run in six appearances. Jorge Alcala, meanwhile, has been shut down because he “felt something that didn’t feel quite right.”
Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Duran | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
April 13, 2022
Minnesota Twins – Jorge Alcala won’t be part of the Twins late-inning plans for the next week or so, as he was placed on the IL with right elbow inflammation. Of more concern is that Emilio Pagan, the current leader of our hierarchy, pitched a scoreless seventh and then took the loss in the eighth after walking the only batter he faced in that frame and getting no help from Caleb Thielbar and Jhon Romero. We’ll see how the Twins approach their next save chance, but it seems likely that Jhoan Duran gets an opportunity sooner rather than later.
Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Duran | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
April 12, 2022
Minnesota Twins – The Twins are still sorting out their late inning gameplans, but things don’t look great for Tyler Duffey, who was called upon in the 7th inning yesterday after blowing his first save chance of the season in the opener. This wasn’t even really a matchup play — he faced the Tigers 5-6-7 hitters — and it was Jhoan Duran who again flashed impressive stuff in closing out the victory in a non-save situation. With Jorge Alcala also being used in the 7th inning in his last appearance, our best guess is that Emilio Pagan will get the next save chance, but keep an eye on Duran, a rookie whose 102 mph fastball has earned praise from manager Rocco Baldelli.
Updated hierarchy: *Pagan | Duran | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
April 8, 2022
Minnesota Twins — Until we see the Twins take the field, it’s hard to know what they’ll do with their save chances now that Taylor Rogers has been dealt. It should be some combination of Tyler Duffey, Jorge Alcala and Emilio Pagan to start. Also, keep an eye on 24-year-old Jhoan Duran.
April 7, 2022
March 22, 2022
Minnesota Twins — The Twins shocked some people when they traded away catcher Mitch Garver for Isiah Kiner-Falefa, shocked more people when they spun Kiner-Falefa in a trade to land Gary Sanchez, and then stunned the baseball world when they landed the year’s top free agent, Carlos Correa. So the Twins appear serious about competing in 2022. But will their bullpen rise to the challenge? Taylor Rogers likely sits in the driver’s seat in the bullpen hierarchy, but Rocco Baldelli has been hesitant to fully stick with Rogers in the past, instead deploying him at times in the highest-leverage situations. Tyler Duffey will set up and Jorge Alcala should get some late-inning looks, too.
Starting 2022 hierarchy: Rogers | Duffey | Alcala.
Holds candidates: Duffey, Alcala, Joe Smith, Caleb Thielbar, Juan Minaya.
September 30, 2021
Minnesota Twins — Juan Minaya has moved into second in line in the Twins’ bullpen, displacing Caleb Thielbar.
Updated hierarchy: Colome | Duffey | Minaya.
September 24, 2021
Minnesota Twins — When the Blue Jays loaded the bases with two outs in the eighth inning, the Twins turned to Ralph Garza Jr. to protect a 7-2 lead. He retired George Springer to get out of the jam and then stayed on in the ninth to secure his first MLB save.
Hierarchy remains: Colome | Duffey | Thielbar.
September 9, 2021
Minnesota Twins — That’s fresh Vulture Save we smell, courtesy of Tyler Duffey. You’re welcome.
Hierarchy remains: Colome | Duffey | Thielbar.
August 29, 2021
Minnesota Twins – Alex Colome pitched a scoreless 9th inning for his 9th save of the season yesterday. Colome has seven saves since Hansel Robles got traded and Taylor Rogers got hurt and that’s more than enough to kick the committee tag.
Hierarchy remains: Colome | Duffey | Thielbar.
August 4, 2021
Minnesota Twins – After Minnesota scored three runs to take the lead in the top of the ninth, Alex Colome worked around a hit and a walk to secure the Twins’ first save since July 23. With Taylor Rogers’ season likely over, Colome has a chance to take over as the Twins’ closer and secure whatever save chances his team can muster over the final two months of a lost season.
Hierarchy remains: *Colome | Duffey | Thielbar.
* = closer-by-committee
July 30, 2021
Minnesota Twins – The Twins have traded Hansel Robles to the Red Sox. While Taylor Rogers recovers from a finger injury, Alex Colome and Tyler Duffey should be among those competing for saves.
Updated hierarchy: *Colome | Duffey | Thielbar.
* = closer-by-committee
July 28, 2021
Minnesota Twins – We alerted you yesterday that Taylor Rogers is headed to the IL with a left middle finger sprain. Hansel Robles didn’t exactly seize the opportunity to impress potential suitors later that night when he allowed a game-tying grand slam in the ninth. Robles had to leave the game shortly after that because he felt dizzy and lightheaded. This is not what the Twins, who stink, were hoping for two days before the trade deadline.
Updated hierarchy: *Robles | Colome | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
July 27, 2021
Minnesota Twins – The Twins announced today that Taylor Rogers will indeed need an IL stint after he exited yesterday’s game with a left middle finger sprain. Hansel Robles will lead this bullpen until he inevitably gets traded, with Alex Colome and Tyler Duffey in the late-inning mix as well.
Updated hierarchy: *Robles | Colome | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
July 27, 2021
Minnesota Twins – Taylor Rogers threw five pitches in Monday night’s game, then exited with a finger injury. In a weird twist, this might actually raise his fantasy value over the season’s final months — assuming the injury makes him an unattractive trade target, but is mild enough that he can return to closing once he’s healthy again. No word yet on whether he’ll need an IL stint; expect an alert later today if he does.
Hierarchy remains: *Rogers | Robles | Colome.
* = closer-by-committee
July 10, 2021
Minnesota Twins – With a 2 run lead last night the Twins turned to Hansel Robles to handle the last two outs of the 8th. He stuck around for the 9th to earn his 9th save of the year. This comes the day after Taylor Rogers locked up his 8th save of the year. By almost every measure, Rogers has been pitching better than Robles, but the Twins seem committed to giving them both chances. Robles is going into free agency, so he could find himself on the trading block, but until he gets moved he will keep stealing some of the save chances.
Hierarchy remains: *Rogers | Robles | Colome.
* = closer-by-committee
July 6, 2021
Minnesota Twins – Hansel Robles picked up his 8th save of the season, pitching after Taylor Rogers had entered in a tight spot (1 out in the 7th with the tying run on) and pitched 1.2 perfect innings with four strikeouts. All things considered, Rogers is still the most likely guy to get a save on any given night, but Robles could still get his chances.
Hierarchy remains: *Rogers | Robles | Colome.
* = closer-by-committee
June 26, 2021
Minnesota Twins — Hansel Robles got a second straight save opportunity, evening baseball’s most honest closer platoon at seven saves apiece. Behind Robles and Taylor Rogers, Alex Colome has had a more important role lately; he pitched a clean seventh on Friday night.
Updated hierarchy: *Rogers | Robles | Colome.
* = closer-by-committee
June 21, 2021
Minnesota Twins – Taylor Rogers got the day off on Sunday, allowing Hansel Robles to collect his 6th save of the season. The Twins will continue to mix and match when all their relievers are available, but Rogers remains the favorite for saves on most nights.
Hierarchy remains: *Rogers | Robles | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
June 20, 2021
Minnesota Twins — With the Twins protecting a one-run lead, Hansel Robles got the 8th inning hold, and Taylor Rogers got the 9th inning to pick up his 7th save of the season. Rogers has now recorded the last three non-extra inning saves for the Twins and that is enough to move him to the top of the committee. However, this is still a pretty fluid situation as evidenced by Rogers getting the 8th and Robles getting the 9th on Friday in a tie game.
Updated hierarchy: *Rogers | Robles | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
June 19, 2021
Minnesota Twins — Taylor Rogers took the 8th inning and Hansel Robles got the 9th in a tie game. This left the save opportunity to Tyler Duffey when the Twins took the lead in the 10th. This is pretty much how you would expect the twins to use their pitchers in a tie game.
Hierarchy remains: *Robles | Rogers | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
June 13, 2021
Minnesota Twins — Taylor Rogers struck out a pair in a perfect 9th inning for his 6th save of the season. Hansel Robles pitched a scoreless 8th inning. This is still a committee and yesterday was likely match-up based with two righties due up in the 8th and 2 lefties due up in the 9th. However, Rogers has now gotten the past two saves so we will monitor this to see if there is a change at the top of the committee moving forward.
Hierarchy remains: *Robles | Rogers | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
June 7, 2021
Minnesota Twins — Taylor Rogers reminded us that this is still a committee, picking up his fifth save after Hansel Robles grabbed the last two.
Hierarchy remains: *Robles | Rogers | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
May 30, 2021
Minnesota Twins – Taylor Rogers allowed a two-run home run but then settled down to retire the next three hitters in order and record his fourth save of the season. Hansel Robles also struggled a bit, giving up a run during his eighth-inning appearance. This continues to be a true committee, with Rogers and Robles splitting most of the save chances.
Hierarchy remains: *Robles | Rogers | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
May 26, 2021
Minnesota Twins – Protecting a three-run lead in the seventh, the Twins went to Hansel Robles to retire the 2-3-4 hitters in the Baltimore lineup, which he did in order. That led to Alex Colomé getting the eighth, but he gave up a leadoff homer and only got two outs before Taylor Rogers finished off the frame. Rogers returned for the ninth to pick up the save. With all three hierarchy members having pitched a lot lately, it made sense for at least one of them to be held back for a potential save chance on Wednesday, and that guy appears to be Tyler Duffey. Colomé had worked his way back into the high-leverage conversation with a strong May, but he’s now allowed an earned run in two of his last three appearances.
Hierarchy remains: *Robles | Rogers | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
May 24, 2021
Minnesota Twins – Tyler Duffey picked up a 10th inning save for the Twins on Sunday; Hansel Robles and Taylor Rogers had already pitched.
Hierarchy remains: *Robles | Rogers | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
May 21, 2021
Minnesota Twins – Tyler Duffey was suspended two games for throwing behind White Sox slugger Yermin Mercedes, a move apparently required by the unwritten rules of baseball and one that did not anger Mercedes’ manager. Duffey already served one game (the second of Thursday’s doubleheader) and will also miss Friday as well. Hansel Robles, meanwhile, scored his second save Thursday for the Twins and could be poised to shake the asterisk with another save or two.
Hierarchy remains: *Robles | Rogers | Duffy.
* = closer-by-committee
May 18, 2021
Minnesota Twins – In his second relief appearance of this season, Willians Astudillo was ever so close to extending his scoreless streak to two perfect innings, until he tried to sneak a 4th straight eephus pitch past Yermin Mercedes, who crushed the 47.1 mph offering to deep center to give the White Sox a 12-run lead. La Tortuga’s quest for a 0.00 ERA season is over.
Hierarchy remains: *Robles | Rogers | Duffy.
* = closer-by-committee
May 16, 2021
Minnesota Twins — The Twins scored four runs in the 8th to take a one-run lead into the 9th inning, and Hansel Robles got the call to try and close it out. Robles worked around a one-out double to pitch a scoreless inning and record his first save of the season. Taylor Rogers has struggled recently, giving up at least one run in three of his last four outings, while Robles has only allowed one run in his last eight outings. Those stats along with Robles getting the save over Rogers yesterday are enough for us to move him to the head of this committee.
Updated hierarchy: *Robles | Rogers | Duffey.
*closer-by-committee
April 28, 2021
Minnesota Twins — Prior to Tuesday’s game, Rocco Baldelli said that Alex Colomé will be moved into a lower-leverage role for now. We’ll expect to see more of Tyler Duffey in the late innings while Colomé tries to get right.
Updated hierarchy: *Rogers | Robles | Duffey.
*closer-by-committee
April 24, 2021
Minnesota Twins — After J.A. Happ turned in a gem of a performance, the Twins used Tyler Duffey to finish the eighth, and Taylor Rogers to get the last two outs of the ninth. Alex Colome has struggled to start the year — including a 49-pitch outing on Wednesday — and his underlying stats are not pretty. This is still a committee, especially with Rogers’ use in a matchup role, but we’re ready to speculate that Rogers is narrowly the save favorite going forward.
Updated hierarchy: *Rogers | Colome | Robles.
*closer-by-committee
April 6, 2021
Minnesota Twins — Randy Dobnak picked up a 3-inning save in Monday’s blowout victory over the Tigers. He doesn’t factor into the Twins usual late-inning plans.
Hierarchy remains: *Colome | Rogers | Robles.
*closer-by-committee
March 3, 2021
Minnesota Twins — The Twins lost Sergio Romo, Trevor May, and Tyler Clippard to free agency, but they brought back their saves leader from last year, Taylor Rogers. They also went out and signed former White Sox closer Alex Colome and added Hansel Robles. It looks like this will be a committee, with Colome and Rogers receiving the majority of save opportunities.
Starting 2021 hierarchy: Colome | Rogers | Robles.
* = closer-by-committee
Holds candidates: Rogers, Robles, Tyler Duffey.
September 5, 2020
Minnesota Twins — The Twins won two games on Friday, with a save apiece for Taylor Rogers and Trevor May.
Hierarchy remains: *Rogers | Romo | May.
* = closer-by-committee
September 2, 2020
Minnesota Twins – Matt Wisler was the starter in his last three appearances, so naturally he picked up his first save since 2016 on Tuesday in a 3-2 win. Sergio Romo faced the 2-3-4 hitters in the eighth inning while Taylor Rogers (33 pitches) and Trevor May (25 pitches) both got some rest after lengthy outings on Monday. Opponents are hitting just .138 against Wisler, who sports a 1.08 ERA and 21 strikeouts through 16.2 IP, though he has issued 10 walks. We’ll keep an eye on him in case he continues to see high-leverage spots.
Hierarchy remains: *Rogers | Romo | May.
* = closer-by-committee
August 19, 2020
Minnesota Twins – Kenta Maeda was outstanding on Tuesday, striking out eight in a row at one point and taking a no-hitter into the ninth inning. Maeda lost his no-hitter and then saw his win disappear as Taylor Rogers blew the 3-0 lead. It was Rogers’ second blown save of the season, and it may not be long until Sergio Romo is seeing the bulk of the save opportunities going forward.
Hierarchy remains: *Rogers | Romo | May.
* = closer-by-committee
August 17, 2020
Minnesota Twins – Taylor Rogers hasn’t been quite as good so far this season as he has been in years past, and has endured a rocky stretch since August 6, having allowed 4 runs across three outings prior to Sunday. So it was the lefty who got the 8th inning on Sunday, rather than the 9th; the latter job went to Sergio Romo, who struck out the side for his third save of the year. The veteran has allowed only 3 baserunners all season, with 12 Ks in 8 innings. The Twins are officially in committee mode.
Updated hierarchy: *Rogers | Romo | May.
* = closer-by-committee
August 5, 2020
Minnesota Twins – The Twins led the Pirates, 7-1, entering the ninth inning, but Pittsburgh mounted a rally and had the tying run on deck when Trevor May came on to record the final two outs. May had previously recorded back-to-back holds, including an impressive eighth inning on Sunday in which he struck out the side. Cody Stashak has been solid for the Twins so far this season and should continue to be a factor for them in the late innings, but we’ll swap him out for May in our hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Rogers | Romo | May.
August 3, 2020
Minnesota Twins – Taylor Rogers got the day off after pitching two straight, allowing Sergio Romo to pick up his second save of the year. Always read your Vulture Save Watch, folks.
Hierarchy remains: Rogers | Romo | Stashak.
August 2, 2020
Minnesota Twins — Tyler Clippard will serve as an opener for the Twins on Sunday. Cody Stashak struck out a pair in a scoreless 8th inning hold ahead of Taylor Rogers on Saturday and we will slide him into Clippard’s hierarchy spot.
Updated hierarchy: Rogers | Romo | Stashak.
July 29, 2020
Minnesota Twins — Taylor Rogers hasn’t pitched yet this season and fantasy owners were justifiably concerned when Sergio Romo picked up the save in a 6-3 win on Tuesday. After the game, Rocco Baldelli explained that Romo was already up and hot when the Cardinals added a run in the eighth inning to create the save situation. We’ll just have to wait and see when Rogers finally makes his first appearance of 2020.
Hierarchy remains: Rogers | Romo | Clippard.
February 24, 2020
Minnesota Twins — Taylor Rogers was incredible for the Twins last season, recording 30 saves and 90 strikeouts in 69 innings. He will start 2020 as the closer and the Twins have a very deep bullpen behind him. They brought back Sergio Romo and added veteran Tyler Clippard. Tyler Duffey and Trevor May also return and all four guys could see time in the 7th and 8th innings ahead of Rogers.
Starting 2020 hierarchy: Rogers | Romo | Clippard.
Holds candidates: Romo, Clippard, Tyler Duffey, Trevor May.
September 25, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Taylor Rogers bounced back from a rough outing in his last appearance and pitched a perfect 9th inning for his 29th save of the season. Rogers now has 8 saves in September.
Hierarchy remains: Rogers | Romo | Duffey.
September 21 2019
Minnesota Twins — As the Vulture Save Watch noted, Taylor Rogers needed some rest. The same could also be said for the rest of the Twins hierarchy, which left Trevor May to pitch the ninth inning last night for Minnesota. May, who is former Vikings linebacker Chad Greenway’s spirit animal, locked in his second save of the year thanks to three strikeouts. May had a spectacular August, but hasn’t worked himself into the regular rotation of late-inning arms. However, with a high strikeout rate and Minnesota likely resting its top arms for the playoffs once it clinches the division, May could see some additional chances over the final few games.
Hierarchy remains: *Rogers | Romo | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
September 18, 2019
Minnesota Twins — It’s looking quite unlikely that Sam Dyson will pitch again this season, which means Tyler Duffey will get more high-leverage looks as the Twins look to clinch a division title.
Updated hierarchy: *Rogers | Romo | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
August 30, 2019
Minnesota Twins — After entering the game with a seven-run cushion in the seventh inning, Randy Dobnak tossed the final three frames to earn his first career save in his second career outing. Other than that, there’s nothing to see here.
Hierarchy remains: *Rogers | Romo | Dyson.
* = closer-by-committee
August 25, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Taylor Rogers retired all five batters that he faced, including three strikeouts, to close out a Twins 8-5 victory yesterday. Rogers has now recorded the last two saves for the Twins after Sergio Romo got the prior two saves. This will likely continue as a committee through the rest of the season with Rogers getting a few more save chances that Romo.
Hierarchy remains: *Rogers | Romo | Dyson.
* = closer-by-committee
August 17, 2019
Minnesota Twins — With Minnesota holding a one-run lead, Taylor Rogers took the eighth inning to face the lefty-loaded heart of the Rangers lineup. He gave up a couple hits, but got out unscathed, which left the ninth inning to Sergio Romo. Romo shut the door for his 3rd save as a Twin. This is certainly a committee, and Rogers arguably got the harder assignment yesterday, but both Rogers and Romo will continue to see save opportunities going forward. Yesterday shows that Rocco Baldelli won’t be afraid to play matchups in the final two innings.
Hierarchy remains: *Rogers | Romo | Dyson.
* = closer-by-committee
August 16, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Normally a starter, Devin Smeltzer pitched the final four innings of the Twins’ win over the Rangers, earning the vulture save.
Hierarchy remains: *Rogers | Romo | Dyson.
* = closer-by-committee
August 14, 2019
Minnesota Twins – The Twins activated Sam Dyson from the IL on Tuesday and immediately sent him into a high-leverage spot. Dyson responded with a perfect eighth inning ahead of Sergio Romo, who closed out a 7-5 win since Taylor Rogers was unavailable. Rogers has struggled when pitching a second consecutive day, so it’s likely that Romo sees some more frequent save chances going forward as the Twins try and manage Rogers’ workload.
Updated hierarchy: *Rogers | Romo | Dyson.
* = closer-by-committee
August 5, 2019
Minnesota Twins – Sam Dyson’s stint with the Twins can’t have gotten off to a worse start, as the righty allowed 3 ERs in each of his first two appearances, then was placed on the IL yesterday with right biceps tendinitis. Tyler Duffey got the 7th inning in Dyson’s absence on Sunday; we’ll slot him in at second in line for now.
Updated hierarchy: *Rogers | Romo | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
August 3, 2019
Minnesota Twins — As predicted in the Vulture Save Watch, it was Sergio Romo who got the save opportunity with Taylor Rogers unavailable after pitching in three straight games. Sam Dyson got hit hard again last night and has gotten off to an awful start with Minnesota. Based on last night, we will bump Romo to first in line, but expect Taylor Rogers to continue to lead this committee.
Updated hierarchy: *Rogers | Romo | Dyson.
* = closer-by-committee
August 2, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Newly acquired Sam Dyson was immediately thrust into a save situation for the Twins and immediately disappointed, allowing four straight to reach base (walk, single, RBI double, walk). Taylor Rogers allowed a game-tying single to blow the save, but managed to strike out the side to send the game to extra innings. The usage pushes Dyson into the save conversation, but the performance doesn’t inspire much confidence. Perhaps he was tired — from helping the grounds crew in his final act for the Giants, or from the flight he took not long before Thursday’s first pitch. Either way, we’ll see how he’s used next time out.
Updated hierarchy: *Rogers | Dyson | Romo.
* = closer-by-committee
July 31, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Sergio Romo made his Twins debut on Tuesday and kept his new team ahead of his old team with a solid eighth-inning. That paved the way for Taylor Rogers to close out a 2-1 victory over the Marlins. This should be the standard operating procedure for the Twins, though Romo may still see a few save chances of his own. Tyler Duffey retired all four hitters he faced across the sixth and seventh innings and has been a little more consistent than Trevor May, who has allowed a run in each of his last five appearances.
Updated hierarchy: *Rogers | Romo | Duffey.
* = closer-by-committee
July 28, 2019
Minnesota Twins — The Twins bolstered their bullpen yesterday by acquiring Marlins’ closer Sergio Romo. Taylor Rogers has been fantastic this year and should continue to see the most save opps. However, Sergio Romo is a veteran closer and the Twins has not been shy about using Taylor Rogers earlier in games or for mulitple innings, which should leave save chances for Sergio Romo as well. We will put this in a committee for now and see how things play out.
Updated hierarchy: *Rogers | Romo | May.
* = closer-by-committee
July 27, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Sergio Romo has been traded to Minnesota and could compete for saves, but we think Taylor Rogers — eight years younger and with better numbers — will keep the ninth inning. We’ll throw the committee asterisk on for now as a hedge.
Updated hierarchy: *Rogers | Romo | May.
* = closer-by-committee
July 25, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Blake Parker started the year as the Twins’ closer, losing the job to Taylor Rogers after struggling in June. Parker had allowed only one run in his last 10 appearances before Tuesday’s four-run implosion against the Yankees, but Minnesota elected to designate him for assignment. In Parker’s stead, Tyler Duffey returns to the hierarchy for the first time in two years.
Updated hierarchy: Rogers | May | Duffey.
July 7, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Taylor Rogers had a dominant outing with 2.1 perfect innings and five strikeouts for his 12th save of the season yesterday. Rogers has three saves in his past four appearances and his other appearance was a scoreless ninth inning in a tie game at home, a spot typically reserved for a team’s closer. Given his recent usage, and his sparkling 1.82 ERA and 51 Ks in 39.2 innings, we will kick the committee asterisk for now.
Hierarchy remains: Rogers | Parker | May.
June 23, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Taylor Rogers came on in the 8th inning yesterday to protect a two-run lead but could not get the job done. He gave up a couple of hits to allow two inherited runners to score along with one of his own. The Twins took the lead again in the 10th inning and Blake Parker pitched a perfect bottom of the inning for his 10th save of the season.
Hierarchy remains: *Rogers | Parker | May.
* = closer-by-committee
June 15, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Taylor Rogers made his first appearance since June 6, completing a 1-2-3 ninth inning in a 2-0 win over the Royals. Rogers, who had been dealing with back stiffness, revealed after the game that he was good to go almost the entire time despite the injury and could have pitched Thursday if necessary.
Hierarchy remains: *Rogers | Parker | May.
* = closer-by-committee
June 12, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Taylor Rogers was unavailable on Tuesday due to back stiffness, so when the Twins took the lead in the bottom of the eighth, Trevor May came out for the ninth and earned his first save of the season. It’s noteworthy that Blake Parker didn’t feature in Tuesday’s win; it appears Rogers has taken the lead in the hierarchy, since if healthy he would have closed out Tuesday’s win. We’ll monitor how Rocco Baldelli deploys Rogers, Parker and May in the coming days.
Updated hierarchy: *Rogers | Parker | May.
* = closer-by-committee
June 7, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Taylor Rogers picked up a six-out save Thursday, allowing a run but striking out three on 30 pitches. Blake Parker threw 50 pitches in two outings this week, including his first blown save on Wednesday, so perhaps some rest was needed — but this is a committee, after all, and manager Rocco Baldelli has showed he’s willing to mix and match for saves. The Twins are among the best teams in baseball, so Parker and Rogers are both worth owning, as chances should be plentiful moving forward.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Rogers | Harper.
* = closer-by-committee
June 3, 2019
Minnesota Twins – Blake Parker struggled to navigate the 8th inning, allowing two runs, but Taylor Rogers had no such trouble finishing the game off in the 9th. Parker has been fine, so we don’t see a shift in this committee just yet.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Rogers | Harper.
* = closer-by-committee
May 29, 2019
Minnesota Twins — The stage was set for Taylor Rogers to collect another save, as he started the ninth inning with a 5-2 lead after Blake Parker gave up a pair of runs on three hits in the eighth. Rogers allowed a solo shot to lead off the frame, but he retired the next two batters. The next two Milwaukee hitters doubled and homered off Rogers in Monday’s eighth inning to hand the reliever a blown save, so Rocco Baldelli called upon 30-year-old Ryne Harper to face Hernan Perez, and Harper induced a pop-up to pick up his first career save. Harper has a devastating curveball that he throws 56% of the time, and it’s been effective to the tune of a 1.61 ERA and 20 strikeouts in 22.1 IP. Harper has four holds, including one on Monday, and should continue to see high-leverage work.
Updated hierarchy: *Parker | Rogers | Harper.
* = closer-by-committee
May 16, 2019
Minnesota Twins — After Blake Parker was used to get the last out of the eighth, Trevor Hildenberger almost gave up a four-run lead in a nonsave situation. Mike Morin came in and made things worse — loading the bases and hitting Mike Trout — before escaping with an ugly save. After the game, Hildenberger was sent to Rochester, leaving Trevor May as the likeliest seventh-inning man for the Twins.
Updated hierarchy: *Parker | Rogers | May.
* = closer-by-committee
May 15, 2019
Minnesota Twins – After Taylor Rogers faced the heart of the Angels’ order in the top of the eighth, Byron Buxton bailed out Blake Parker for the last out of the inning. Parker then stayed on for the ninth to earn the save. Rogers seems to have Trout’s number and likely would have had the ninth had Trout been slated to come to the plate then. Both Parker and Rogers will continue to see save chances depending on matchups.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Rogers | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
May 8, 2019
Minnesota Twins – Taylor Rogers picked up his fourth save of the season on Tuesday, and this time it wasn’t because Blake Parker had already been used. Trevor Hildenberger and Trevor May combined to complete the eighth inning before Rogers finished the game. This continues to be a committee, with Rogers now closer to taking the top spot from Parker.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Rogers | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
May 5, 2019
Minnesota Twins – Blake Parker had recorded the last two saves for the Twins and appeared ready to lose the committee asterisk, but yesterday proved Taylor Rogers could still be in line for the occasional save. Parker came on in the seventh inning and that left Rogers for the ninth. It didn’t end up being a save since the Twins made it a four-run lead in the top of the ninth, but Rogers should continue to see the ninth if Parker is used before then.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Rogers | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
April 22, 2019
Minnesota Twins – With Blake Parker under the weather, Taylor Rogers pitched a clean 9th inning for his 3rd save of the season. Parker remains the preferred choice for saves here, but Rogers may continue to get an opportunity now and again.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Rogers | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
April 21, 2019
Minnesota Twins – With the Twins up two in the first game of the doubleheader yesterday, Taylor Rogers came on for the eighth inning. He allowed a run but was able to strand runners on second and third to preserve the lead. Rogers then came back out for the ninth inning and struck out a pair in a perfect inning to pick up his second save of the season. Blake Parker was battling illness, which could explain why Rogers got the two-inning save. We expect Blake Parker to see the most save chances, but Rogers and Hildenberger have recorded the last two saves so this looks like it is still very much a committee for now.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Rogers | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
April 15, 2019
Minnesota Twins – Protecting a 2-run lead, Blake Parker only managed to get one out, loading the bases on a hit and two walks before being yanked for Trevor Hildenberger. Hildenberger needed just seven pitches to strike out the two Tigers he faced, as he locked down his first save of the season. Parker remains the preferred option here, but obviously he’s on a pretty short leash.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Rogers | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
April 14, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Protecting a one-run lead, the Twins again went with Taylor Rogers in the eighth inning and Blake Parker got the save in the ninth. Rogers has not seen a save opportunity since the first game of the season and Parker is close to kicking the committee asterisk. Trevor Hildenberger pitched a scoreless seventh inning ahead of Rogers and Parker and has yet to allow a run on the season.
Updated hierarchy: *Parker | Rogers | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
April 7, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Taylor Rogers pitched the eighth inning with the Twins up one run and that left Blake Parker for the ninth inning. It wasn’t a save opportunity since the Twins added three runs in the top of the ninth but this appears to be the preferred usage for the Twins. The eighth inning started off with two righties so it wasn’t matchups that dictated Rogers in the eighth. Trevor May, on the other hand, pitched Friday with the Twins down six and could fall off the hierarchy altogether.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Rogers | May.
* = closer-by-committee
April 3, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Blake Parker bounced back from Sunday’s rough outing with a 10th-inning save on Tuesday. Taylor Rogers pitched the eighth inning with the game tied, giving up the go-ahead run, before coming back out for the ninth after the Twins tied it. Once again, Trevor May was nowhere to be found. He has only faced two batters this season, though that’s also true of Trevor Hildenberger, who got the win on Tuesday. It looks like Parker and Rogers are the two arms to trust at the moment in Minnesota.
Hierarchy remains: *Parker | Rogers | May.
* = closer-by-committee
March 31, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Game two of the season offered some insight into the Twins’ bullpen plans, and then it became complicated again. Trevor May started the seventh inning of a tie game and got removed for a lefty reliever after getting one out and giving up a hit. That doesn’t seem like the usage for your closer. Taylor Rogers pitched a scoreless eighth inning and Blake Parker came on for the ninth with the game still tied. Top of the ninth of a tie game at home is a common time to use your closer and given that Parker was warming while Rogers got the save in the first game, it appeared that Parker might be the guy. Then Parker actually pitched and it wasn’t very pretty. Parker got the first man out, but then gave up a hit, uncorked two wild pitches while walking the next man and gave up a sac fly for the go-ahead run. We will move Parker to the top of the committee even while taking the loss in a poor outing, but this bullpen appears to be wide open right now.
Updated hierarchy: *Parker | Rogers | May.
* = closer-by-committee
March 29, 2019
Minnesota Twins — We begin with perhaps the most volatile bullpen situation in the big leagues. Game one of 162 proved just that, with lefty Taylor Rogers nailing down the final four outs for the first Twins save. We expected Rogers to contend for some late-inning holds, but speculatively, we have to add him to the hierarchy to see if he ascends to the chief role in the 9th. First-year manager Rocco Baldelli remained vague after the game, which means this bullpen remains up in the air heading into tomorrow.
Updated hierarchy: *May | Parker | Rogers.
* = closer-by-committee
March 21, 2019
Minnesota Twins — Nothing definitive in the Twins’ hierarchy — they’re still choosing among Trevor May, Blake Parker, Trevor Hildenberger, and Taylor Rogers — but the latest news is that they might settle on one guy, and that it won’t be Fernando Romero. We’re still betting on May.
Hierarchy remains: *May | Parker | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
February 18, 2019
Minnesota Twins — There are a lot of question marks in the Twins’ bullpen. They bring back all three members of their closer committee that finished last season: Trevor Hildenberger, Taylor Rogers, and Trevor May. They also still have former closer Addison Reed and recently went out and signed Blake Parker. To complicate things even more, they just announced that hard-throwing righty Fernando Romero will be used as a reliever. Oh, and the Twins are also a possibility for Craig Kimbrel. Trevor May recorded the last three saves of the season for the Twins last year and we think the towering right-hander could get a shot to continue that in 2019, but until roles become more clear, this looks like a committee again.
Starting 2019 hierarchy: *May | Parker | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
Holds candidates: Parker, Hildenberger, Taylor Rogers.
September 29, 2018
Minnesota Twins – Holding a one-run lead, the Twins used Taylor Rogers in the 8th and Trevor May to get the last two outs of the first game in a doubleheader. May struck out both batters he faced to earn his second career save. This is also May’s second save in a row for the Twins, as normal closer Trevor Hildenberger hasn’t pitched since giving up four runs this past Wednesday. We told you Wednesday that Paul Molitor said he was going to try different guys in different roles this week, and he looks like he’s keeping that promise.
Hierarchy remains: *Hildenberger | Rogers | May.
* = closer-by-committee
September 26, 2018
Minnesota Twins – Trevor Hildenberger’s rough September continued on Tuesday when he gave up three hits and four earned runs in the eighth inning en route to a blown save. Manager Paul Molitor said he’s going to try different guys in different roles this week, which explains Hildenberger’s turn in the eighth inning. Given Hildenberger’s struggles and Molitor’s plan to use a committee, expect either Taylor Rogers or Trevor May to get the next save chance.
Hierarchy remains: *Hildenberger | Rogers | May.
* = closer-by-committee
September 24, 2018
Minnesota Twins – Trevor May came into the game with the tying run on deck in the 8th, and recorded the game’s final four outs to pick up his first save of the year. He should return to his usual role of setting up for Trevor Hildenberger in the season’s final week.
Hierarchy remains: Hildenberger | Rogers | May.
August 30, 2018
Minnesota Twins — Trevor Hildenberger picked up another save on Wednesday, with Trevor May and Taylor Rogers paving the way to the ninth. As a lefty, Rogers probably is second-most-likely to grab a save for the Twins at this point.
Updated hierarchy: *Hildenberger | Rogers | May.
* = closer-by-committee
August 24, 2018
Minnesota Twins — Trevor Hildenberger and his 4.55 ERA showed that he’s still the arm to own for the Twins. He collected his fourth save Thursday, allowing a run in an inning of work. There’s still some uncertainty with this situation and we’d love to see a string of cleaner saves before kicking the asterisk.
Hierarchy remains: *Hildenberger | May | Rogers.
* = closer-by-committee
August 22, 2018
Minnesota Twins — In our last Twins update, we said that Taylor Rogers may snag a couple more save opportunities if the matchups were right. Well, with the Twins breaking a 2-2 tie in the top half of ninth and a pair of lefties due up for the White Sox, Rogers got the call again and recorded two strikeouts en route to his second save of the season. Trevor May preserved the tie against the top of the White Sox order in the eighth. Rogers is more likely to earn a save when a team has a couple of lefties due up. He is also more likely to earn a save than Addison Reed, who hasn’t recorded a hold since August 10.
Updated hierarchy: *Hildenberger | May | Rogers.
* = closer-by-committee
August 18, 2018
Minnesota Twins — Despite Trevor Hildenberger converting all three save chances he has been given since the Fernando Rodney trade, Paul Molitor elected to use Matt Magill to protect a two-run lead in the 9th. Magill gave up a run and put runners on first and second before Taylor Rogers came in to put out the fire. Rogers got a groundout to earn his first save of the season. Rogers had a rough start to the season, but he has run off 11 straight scoreless appearances and has five holds in August. Rogers is generally a LOOGY-type pitcher, but given his recent run he is worth an add in holds leagues if he is available. He may even snag a couple more save opportunities if the matchups are right.
Hierarchy remains: *Hildenberger | Reed | May.
* = closer-by-committee
August 16, 2018
Minnesota Twins — Trevor Hildenberger may be getting the hang of this, picking up his third save in as many chances since Fernando Rodney’s departure. Paul Molitor insists that the closer role is still fluid, and although Hildenberger was asked to pick a closer entrance song on Wednesday, so were four other guys with a shot to close (Addison Reed, Trevor May, Taylor Rogers, and Tyler Duffey). Reed has been passed over for those other guys lately in the middle innings, but if Molitor is telling the truth, Reed could still get the next chance.
Hierarchy remains: *Hildenberger | Reed | May.
* = closer-by-committee
August 12, 2018
Minnesota Twins — Trevor Hildenberger received the first post-Fernando Rodney save chance and it got off to a rocky start. Hildenberger walked the leadoff batter in the ninth, gave up a homer to the next batter to make it a one-run game, and then gave up a single. He was able to recover by getting the next three batters out, including two strikeouts, to lock down his first save of the season. It wasn’t pretty, and Hildenberger has given up the most home runs of any Twins’ reliever this season, but it says a lot that Hildenberger got the first chance and converted it. Trevor May pitched a scoreless eighth inning ahead of Hildenberger and has now recorded holds in three of his five appearances this season.
Updated hierarchy: *Hildenberger | Reed | May.
* = closer-by-committee
August 10, 2018
Minnesota Twins — Like we told you in last night’s alert, the Twins traded closer Fernando Rodney to the A’s, leaving a committee situation in his wake. We expect Trevor Hildenberger and Addison Reed to lead that committee to start, though both have pitched poorly as of late, leaving things wide open for some of the Twins’ younger arms (subscription). For what it’s worth, Reed got the ninth in a tie game Thursday night, and picked up the loss. Taylor Rogers may get a shot down the stretch — he’s been impressive lately, allowing no runs or walks (and just two hits) over his last seven appearances. Trevor May and Gabriel Moya also have legitimate chances.
Hierarchy remains: *Hildenberger | Reed | Rogers.
* = closer-by-committee
August 9, 2018
Minnesota Twins — Fernando Rodney was traded to Oakland on Thursday night, leaving a question mark at the back of the Twins’ bullpen. A few weeks ago, we would have guessed Trevor Hildenberger could claim the job, but he’s coming off three consecutive awful outings (7 ER, 2.2 IP). Addison Reed has the most closing experience, but he too has struggled (4.74 ERA, 1.44 WHIP). The best reliever for Minnesota right now might be Taylor Rogers, who’s got a streak of seven scoreless outings going (three holds). Gabriel Moya is another option, a 23-year-old lefty who has closed for Rochester — and don’t sleep on Trevor May, a former prospect who has come back from an injury strong (7 K in 3.2 IP). For now, we predict an ugly committee headlined by Hildenberger and Reed.
Updated hierarchy: *Hildenberger | Reed | Rogers.
* = closer-by-committee
July 31, 2018
Minnesota Twins – The Twins traded Zach Duke to Seattle last night. They also got Addison Reed back from the DL. We’ll make the requisite hierarchy change, but hopefully you owned neither of these guys and this doesn’t matter to you.
Updated hierarchy: Rodney | Hildenberger | Reed.
July 28, 2018
Minnesota Twins — The Twins traded Ryan Pressly to Houston last night. Pressly had been on a great run recently, but Minnesota is selling anybody it can at the moment. Look for Zach Duke and Matt Belisle to pick up the slack, at least until they find themselves traded as well. Also of note is the fact that Fernando Rodney, who had garnered interest from a few contenders, has not been sharp in his last two appearances.
Updated hierarchy: Rodney | Hildenberger | Duke.
July 20, 2018
Minnesota Twins — Some observers questioned why Fernando Rodney appeared in the fifth inning of Sunday’s game — turns out he had to leave the game early to become an American citizen. Congratulations!
Hierarchy remains: Rodney | Hildenberger | Pressly.
July 12, 2018
Minnesota Twins — An MRI on Wednesday revealed inflammation and swelling around Addison Reed’s triceps, so he’ll rest on the DL through the All-Star break. Ryan Pressly (13.08 K/9) — in Rochester exile no longer — should get more looks in the seventh inning; he picked up a sixth-inning hold last night.
Updated hierarchy: Rodney | Hildenberger | Pressly.
June 25, 2018
Minnesota Twins – Trevor Hildenberger logged another scoreless inning yesterday, picking up his third hold of the week — two of which have come immediately in front of Fernando Rodney. Meanwhile, Addison Reed has allowed 14 baserunners in 7.2 innings since the start of June, and has been used most recently in games that the Twins were losing. Reed has the experience, so he could still be tapped for saves when Rodney is unavailable, but for now, usage indicates that Hildenberger is the next man up.
Updated hierarchy: Rodney | Hildenberger | Reed.
June 20, 2018
Minnesota Twins — Trevor Hildenberger came through in a huge spot on Tuesday, striking out J.D. Martinez in the seventh inning of Minnesota’s 6-2 win over the Red Sox. Hildenberger has certainly earned Paul Molitor’s trust, as the righty has a 1.11 ERA over his last 24.1 IP. Lefty Zach Duke blew a one-run lead in the eighth against a lefty-heavy portion of the Sox lineup but earned the win thanks to his offense. Hard to ignore what Hildenberger has done lately, though Duke will still be a factor in the Twins’ late-inning plans.
Updated hierarchy: Rodney | Reed | Hildenberger.
April 27, 2018
Minnesota Twins — Pitching for the first time in six days, Fernando Rodney managed to blow his third save already (in just five tries), allowing a walk-off, three-run home run to the Yankees, continuing a not-so-great tradition for Minnesota. The Twins, losers now of eight straight, are desperate for a win, which isn’t good news for fantasy owners looking for save chances from this bunch. As for Rodney, rough starts to the season aren’t new. After poor starts in recent years, he usually rights the ship enough to hang onto the closer’s job for most, if not all, of the season. But he’s 41 now — has time run out?
Hierarchy remains: Rodney | Reed | Duke.
April 11, 2018
Minnesota Twins — Zach Duke pitched the eighth inning of the Twins’ 4-1 win on Tuesday, as Addison Reed was under the weather. Duke pitched well against the Astros’ best hitters, and the lefty’s usage on Tuesday suggests he’s third in line for saves in Minnesota. Don’t sleep on Ryan Pressly either, as he pitched the seventh on Tuesday and has six strikeouts in 5.1 scoreless innings this season.
Updated hierarchy: Rodney | Reed | Duke.
February 26, 2018
Minnesota Twins — The Twins have revamped their bullpen for 2018. Fernando Rodney is the closer, while Addison Reed will fill an important role at the back end of the bullpen. Trevor Hildenberger pitched well for the Twins last year, and he should split seventh-inning duties with newly acquired lefty Zach Duke.
Starting 2018 hierarchy: Rodney | Reed | Hildenberger.
Holds candidates: Reed, Hildenberg, Zach Duke.
September 9, 2017
Minnesota Twins — Matt Belisle pitched a perfect ninth inning for his seventh save. Belisle has pitched very well since taking over as the head of the Minnesota committee, and has gotten the last five save chances for the Twins. That’s enough for us to remove the asterisk, as it seems that Belisle will be the closer for the team’s playoff push. Backing him up should be Trevor Hildenberger, who has set up the last three outings.
Updated hierarchy: Belisle | Hildenberger | Rogers.
August 22, 2017
Minnesota Twins – Tyler Duffey earned his first career save on Monday by pitching the final three innings in a 10-2 victory over the White Sox in the second game of a doubleheader.
Hierarchy remains: *Belisle | Rogers | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
August 18, 2017
Minnesota Twins – An old friend was back in the bullpen for the Twins on Thursday. Glen Perkins made his long-awaited return from a 2015 surgery to reattach the labrum in his left shoulder. The 34-year-old said it felt like his major league debut again. For now, he’s obviously rusty (0.1 IP, 2 H, 2 ER, 1 BB in Game 1 of a doubleheader Thursday), but congratulations are due for his big league return. It’ll remain to be seen how he factors into the late-inning plans for the Twins, who are still competing for one of the Wild Card spots in the American League. In the nightcap, Matt Belisle closed the door for his third save.
Hierarchy remains: *Belisle | Rogers | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
August 14, 2017
Minnesota Twins – Matt Belisle got knocked around on Saturday, so the Twins gave him the day off Sunday and went to Trevor Hildenberger, who got the final four outs of the game and picked up his first save. That’s enough for us to return the Twins to committee status; the team is in hot pursuit of a Wild Card, so don’t look for them to stay particularly loyal to any pitcher who isn’t doing the job.
Updated hierarchy: *Belisle | Rogers | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
August 10, 2017
Minnesota Twins — Yeah, Matt Belisle struck out the side for his third scoreless ninth in four days, and his sixteenth straight appearance without an earned run. Sure looks like the closer to us. Glen Perkins should be back next week, but probably won’t challenge for the job right away.
Updated hierarchy: Belisle | Rogers | Hildenberger.
August 9, 2017
Minnesota Twins – The Vulture Save Watch predicted a night off for Matt Belisle, but it somehow missed out on foreseeing Dillon Gee tossing four scoreless innings to close out an 11-4 win and earn his first career save. Can’t win ’em all!
Hierarchy remains: *Belisle | Rogers | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
August 8, 2017
Minnesota Twins – Matt Belisle got his second save in as many days, and now needs just 258 more to catch Joe Nathan for the all-time team record. Belisle maintains his spot at the top of the committee, but if the Twins take a lead to the ninth tonight, don’t expect to see the 37-year-old again, as the Twins don’t even like to use him for TWO straight if he has an extended outing.
Hierarchy remains: *Belisle | Rogers | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
August 7, 2017
Minnesota Twins – Protecting a one run lead, the Twins went with Trevor Hildenberger in the 6th and 7th, Taylor Rogers in the 8th, and Matt Belisle in the 9th. While Matty did a nice job, the Twins are still in committee mode for now, so we’ll leave our hierarchy right where it was.
Hierarchy remains: *Belisle | Rogers | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
August 3, 2017
Minnesota Twins — Some — including a Twins beat writer on Twitter! — scoffed when we predicted Matt Belisle would be best-positioned in the Twins bullpen if Brandon Kintzler was traded. But Wednesday night found Belisle warming in the ninth, ready to close if Ervin Santana had been unable to finish his complete game. Before the game, Paul Molitor said that lefty Taylor Rogers could also get a shot to close, depending on matchups, with Trevor Hildenberger waiting in the wings, especially in the event that Belisle is traded.
Updated hierarchy: *Belisle | Rogers | Hildenberger.
* = closer-by-committee
August 1, 2017
Minnesota Twins – The Twins shipped Brandon Kintzler off, leaving the cupboard pretty bare when it comes to 9th inning options. The team hasn’t said much, and beat writers don’t have a good guess, so we’ll split our bets on veteran Matt Belisle and 26-year-old righty Trevor Hildenberger. Belisle has been pitching the best as of late, with 13 straight scoreless outings, but durability is an issue, while Hildenberger had a strong outing Sunday and averages more than a strikeout per inning. Taylor Rogers seemed the best option as recently as a week ago, but he’s been hit around as of late (his last five appearances: 3 IP, 9 ER) and is probably in third place at the moment; however, if the Twins do employ a full committee, he could get the 9th when a lefty-heavy part of the lineup is due.
Updated hierarchy: *Belisle | Hildenberger | Rogers.
* = closer-by-committee
July 31, 2017
Minnesota Twins – Taylor Rogers had another bad outing yesterday, and has now allowed runs in five straight appearances. This is huge fantasy news, as the lefty had seemed like a lock to take over in the event of a Brandon Kintzler trade. But now, our money is on veteran Matt Belisle, who has been one of the only consisent arms in the Twins bullpen as of late. Check out our Trade Deadline Preview for relievers like Belisle who are worth adding before 4 p.m. today.
Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Belisle | Rogers.
July 29, 2017
Minnesota Twins — Matt Belisle grabbed a four-out hold on Friday ahead of Brandon Kintzler, and has been used more often in high-leverage spots of late.
Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Rogers | Belisle.
June 9, 2017
Minnesota Twins — Matt Belisle (7.52 ERA, 1.57 WHIP) may be in his manager’s good graces again. He has recorded holds in two Twins wins this week, coming on to induce Albert Pujols into an eighth-inning double play in one game and retiring the side in the seventh inning Thursday with a tidy eight pitches. Tyler Duffey has also picked up high-leverage holds over the last week and has better numbers (3.30 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, 9.30 K/9). Expect both of them to help get the ball to Taylor Rogers and Brandon Kintzler when the Twins have a lead.
Hierarchy remains: Kintzler | Rogers | Duffey.
June 1, 2017
Minnesota Twins — After a really rough week (four appearances, 3 IP, 8 ER), Ryan Pressly will get some time to kick back and enjoy the wall-to-wall excitement that is Rochester, NY. While Tyler Duffey or Matt Belisle inherits the seventh inning for the boring ol’ Twins, Pressly can fill his belly at the Greek Festival, savor the beauty of the Fairport Canal Days, and — if he’s really feeling frisky — take in a lecture at the Genesee Valley QuiltFest. Rochester: Limitless — just like an ERA!
Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Rogers | Duffey.
May 25, 2017
Minnesota Twins — Matt Belisle has an 7.80 ERA and only one appearance since May 12. Taylor Rogers has earned the eighth-inning role for Minnesota, and it looks like it’s Ryan Pressly, not Belisle, backing him up.
Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Rogers | Pressly.
May 20, 2017
Minnesota Twins — Taylor Rogers pitched a perfect ninth inning for the Twins, his sixth straight scoreless appearance. Rogers has 11 holds on the year, tied for second behind Adam Ottavino in all of baseball. His usage still suggests lefty specialist — he’s thrown only 53 pitches over his last eight appearances combined — but he could push Matt Belisle for vulture opportunities in what has been a very poor bullpen.
Hierarchy remains: Kintzler | Belisle | Rogers.
May 14, 2017
Minnesota Twins – Taylor Rogers got the last out of the 8th inning en route to his tenth hold of the season on Saturday afternoon. Tyler Duffey has better numbers than Rogers, but the Twins clearly trust Rogers more in tight spots at this point.
Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Belisle | Rogers.
May 8, 2017
Minnesota Twins – The Minnesota bullpen got all kinds of beat up on Sunday, with set-up man Matt Belisle taking the worst of it — he allowed 6 ERs in just 0.2 IP, which ballooned his ERA to 9.00. That makes two terrible outings for Belisle in his last six appearances, and while we won’t remove him from the first in line spot yet, keep an eye on Tyler Duffey, who has the best stats of any Twins reliever across the board and could be tapped for higher-leverage spots any day now.
Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Belisle | Duffey.
April 29, 2017
Minnesota Twins — Brandon Kintzler has been excellent as Minnesota’s closer, but behind him the Twins are searching for consistency. Ryan Pressly got his ERA below 9 on Friday, but it was in the seventh inning of a game his team was losing by two. It appears that Pressly is getting some space to fix his command issues, so look for Taylor Rogers to pick up the slack. He’s something of a lefty specialist, but has five holds already, including the last out of the eighth last night.
Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Belisle | Rogers.
April 25, 2017
Minnesota Twins — Matt Belisle pitched a perfect eight inning ahead of closer Brandon Kintzler last night. It was Belisle’s third hold of the season, and with Ryan Pressly struggling, Belisle has likely moved into first in line for saves behind Kintzler.
Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Belisle | Pressly.
April 14, 2017
Minnesota Twins — We are offering free Closer Monkey Premium to the first person who sends a screenshot of their fantasy team starting Justin Haley for his beautiful, 3.1 IP save Thursday for the Twins. Email [email protected]. Pics or it didn’t happen!
Hierarchy remains: Kintzler | Pressly | Belisle.
April 4, 2017
Minnesota Twins — Despite cruising to a 7-1 victory, the Twins took no chances in the ninth, calling on closer Brendan Kintzler to slam the door. In the eighth, veteran righty Matt Belisle needed just 11 pitches to retire the side, and won plaudits for his high socks. Belisle could be the veteran presence Minnesota needs to help stabilize its bullpen.
Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Pressly | Belisle.
February 27, 2017
Minnesota Twins — The Twins’ bullpen was bottom five in the league in ERA last year, and they may start 2017 with a similar set of relievers. All-Star Glen Perkins missed most of last season, and could start this season on the disabled list. Brandon Kintzler filled in for Perkins last year and will close again until Perkins is ready to reclaim the job. The Twins could still add a veteran reliever, but for now, they are expected to lean on Ryan Pressly and Taylor Rogers.
Starting 2017 hierarchy: Kintzler | Pressly | Rogers.
September 14, 2016
Minnesota Twins — In case you didn’t get enough Trevor May news, he’s now out for the season due to a back problem. No word yet if his fingers will hurt due to the forthcoming landscaping duty.
Hierarchy remains: Kintzler | Pressly | Rogers.
September 10, 2016
Minnesota Twins — Trevor May returned from the DL on Friday, but because he didn’t get the benefit of any minor league rehab appearances, he isn’t expected to get any high-leverage use right away.
Hierarchy remains: Kintzler | Pressly | Rogers.
August 11, 2016
Minnesota Twins — Not only were the Twins rained out on Umbrella Night, but they also sent Trevor May to the disabled list with a low back strain. Lefthander Taylor Rogers, a rookie, has three holds in the last week, and should benefit from May’s absence.
Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Pressly | Rogers.
August 2, 2016
Minnesota Twins — The Twins held on to Brandon Kintzler, but on Sunday they did manage to move veteran Fernando Abad. Abad, who is having a stellar season, joins the Red Sox, where he likely won’t crack the hierarchy, but his absence in Minnesota means more opportunities for Trevor May to finally live up to his potential.
Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Pressly | May.
August 1, 2016
Minnesota Twins – After pitching in three straight, both Brandon Kintzler and Fernando Abad were given the night off last night, allowing Ryan Pressly to pick up his first save. Pressly and Abad have been holding down the 7th and 8th innings recently, and if Kintzler is dealt today, the Twins also may look to a committee. Trevor May could also be in the mix if Kintzler moves.
Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Abad | Pressly.
July 10, 2016
Minnesota Twins – Fernando Abad’s struggles continued on Saturday; he has given up at least one run in five of his last seven appearances. Brandon Kintzler came on to clean up Abad’s mess in the eighth inning, and even though he gave up a run of his own in the ninth, he recorded his fifth save of the year. Kintzler is seeing most of the save chances and pitching better than Abad so we will drop the asterisk. Trevor May pitched a scoreless seventh inning with two strikeouts, and now has three scoreless innings since returning from the DL. May’s strikeout numbers are great and he could work his way into the saves conversation if he continues to throw up zeroes.
Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Abad | May.
July 6, 2016
Minnesota Twins – Trevor May returned from the DL Tuesday and pitched the seventh in a blowout win. Manager Paul Molitor said he will ease May back into things, which means Ryan Pressly shouldn’t lose his seventh-inning role right away. We’ll keep an eye on May’s progress as he eventually works his way back into the hierarchy, though the Twins are still open to May becoming a starter.
Hierarchy remains: *Kintzler | Abad | Pressly.
* = closer-by-committee
July 4, 2016
Minnesota Twins – Following a scoreless 9th inning yesterday, Brandon Kintzler now has four saves to Fernando Abad’s one. Abad has also struggled recently, having allowed 6 ERs in his last 5.1 innings. Kintzler is inches from kicking his asterisk and could make appealing trade bait for teams looking to add some help.
Hierarchy remains: *Kintzler | Abad | Pressly.
* = closer-by-committee
June 23, 2016
Minnesota Twins — Brandon Kintzler had earned two four-out saves in three days, so Fernando Abad got his first MLB save in his place. Abad and Kevin Jepsen have been mentioned in some recent trade rumors. Sadly, Glen Perkins also announced that he would undergo season-ending shoulder surgery on Thursday.
Hierarchy remains: *Kintzler | Abad | Pressly.
* = closer-by-committee
June 22, 2016
Minnesota Twins — Brandon Kintzler picked up his third save of the season and second four-out save in as many chances. Since Kevin Jepsen was demoted from the closer’s role, Kintzler has been the only Twins reliever to record a save, and may be close to dropping the asterisk in Minnesota.
Hierarchy remains: *Kintzler | Abad | Pressly.
* = closer-by-committee
June 17, 2016
Minnesota Twins — Regular closer Glen Perkins is officially out for the rest of the season with a torn labrum. The original thought was rest and rehab would allow Perkins to heal properly and give him a chance to play again this season, but that’s now not the case.
Hierarchy remains: *Kintzler | Abad | Pressly.
* = closer-by-committee
June 11, 2016
Minnesota Twins — Trevor May was placed on the 15-day DL with back spasms on Friday. Based on usage, Ryan Pressly moves into the hierarchy — but keep an eye on hard-throwing rookie JT Chargois, called up to replace May. The 25-year-old missed 2013 and 2014 after Tommy John surgery, but he works in the high 90s and has been an excellent closer in the minors. With Glen Perkins suffering yet another setback, and Minnesota’s season in shambles, they may see just what they’ve got in their 2012 second-round draft pick.
Updated hierarchy: *Kintzler | Abad | Pressly.
* = closer-by-committee
June 9, 2016
Minnesota Twins — As we told you last night, Brandon Kintzler and Fernando Abad will be “mix and match” closers for the woeful Twins going forward. Lefties are batting .111 against Abad, while Kintzler is equally effective against lefties and righties. With Glen Perkins still at least two weeks away from returning, owners can expect as many as one or even two saves from the new guys.
Updated hierarchy: *Kintzler | Abad | May.
* = closer-by-committee
June 8, 2016
Minnesota Twins — Brandon Kintzler earned his first major league save on Wednesday night; in remarks after the game, Paul Molitor said that the team would be “backing off” Kevin Jepsen in the closer role, and using a combination of Kintzler and Fernando Abad in his place. Matchups will determine whether lefty Abad or righty Kintzler gets the call. Trevor May and Ryan Pressly are likely to serve as junior members of the committee.
Updated hierarchy: *Kintzler | Abad | May.
* = closer-by-committee
June 8, 2016
Minnesota Twins – Trevor May was one of just two Twins relievers to not appear in an 11-inning win on Tuesday thanks to a lower back/hip issue, though his 5.13 ERA wasn’t exactly missed. Brandon Kintzler pitched the ninth after the Twins tied the game in the eighth while Kevin Jepsen allowed a hit in the 11th and has not recorded a 1-2-3 inning since April 17. In Glen Perkins news, the injured closer claims there’s “light at the end of the tunnel” and manager Paul Molitor said that Perkins will soon get a rehab assignment.
Updated hierarchy: Jepsen | Abad | Kintzler.
June 6, 2016
Minnesota Twins – After entering with the game tied and giving up two runs to take the loss, Kevin Jepsen saw his ERA climb to 6.26. He’s now given up runs in 12 of his 24 appearances this season. He’d probably be out of a job right now if Glen Perkins’s return wasn’t in sight — and he might be anyway. We’ll continue to monitor.
Hierarchy remains: Jepsen | Abad | May.
May 26, 2016
Minnesota Twins — With all that’s gone wrong for the Twins this season, it’s been easy to overlook how bad their bullpen has gotten. Glen Perkins is on the 60-day DL and Kevin Jepsen has made his home on the hot seat, but now Trevor May’s recent struggles have led Paul Molitor to demote him from the setup role, in favor of journeyman lefty Fernando Abad and the oft-injured Brandon Kintzler. We can’t give up on May just yet, though; his high K rate (33 in 22.2 IP) and favorable xFIP suggest that this is mostly a run of bad luck. Abad’s success this year gets him in the hierarchy, but we’ll keep a close eye on Minnesota’s bullpen use going forward — provided they can get the lead.
Updated hierarchy: Jepsen | Abad | May.
May 11, 2016
Minnesota Twins — Kevin Jepsen’s struggles continued on Tuesday when he entered the ninth inning with the score tied and exited with his team trailing by two. Paul Molitor was silent on the issue after the game, but Trevor May’s 1.89 ERA and eight straight scoreless appearances continue to lurk. The ice has to be extremely thin for Jepsen.
Hierarchy remains: Jepsen | May | Pressly.
May 8, 2016
Minnesota Twins — Casey Fien was claimed off waivers by the Dodgers yesterday. Ryan Pressly, who has 19 strikeouts in 17 innings, should see time in the later innings.
Updated hierarchy: Jepsen | May | Pressly.
April 30, 2016
Minnesota Twins — Injured Glen Perkins has kept busy flipping off photographers, hawking pretzels, and pranking Phil Hughes, but evidently hasn’t been cleared to throw baseballs yet. Kevin Jepsen has been mediocre thus far, but Paul Molitor is vowing to stick with him. Trevor May lurks.
Hierarchy remains: Jepsen | May | Fien.
April 16, 2016
Minnesota Twins — Kevin Jepsen pitched well to earn a save in the Twins’ first victory of the season. After getting a second opinion on his shoulder injury, Glen Perkins has said he expects to return from the DL when he regains eligibility on April 26. Even Minnesota’s more conservative estimates have him returning in early May.
Hierarchy remains: Jepsen | May | Fien.
April 14, 2016
Minnesota Twins – The Twins placed Glen Perkins on the 15-day disabled list yesterday. Perkins, whose velocity has been down all year, will be replaced by Kevin Jepsen, who did a serviceable job with the role last season. When Perkins returns — which will be longer than 15 days — he’ll have to rebound from a start that produced a 9.00 ERA and a blown save in two outings.
Updated hierarchy: Jepsen | May | Fien.
April 13, 2016
Minnesota Twins – The Twins have placed Glen Perkins on the 15-day disabled list. Perkins, whose velocity has been down all year, will be replaced by Kevin Jepsen, who did a serviceable job with the role last season.
Updated hierarchy: Jepsen | May | Fien.
April 11, 2016
Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins had a rough outing on Sunday, blowing the save and then watching as Trevor May took the loss in the 10th inning to drop the Twins to 0-6. Combined with a shaky, injury-ridden 2015, Perkins isn’t looking like the sure thing he once was. Fortunately, his main competitor for the job, Kevin Jepsen, is also off to a bad start, but Perkins’s blown save does make him the 8th most likely closer to lose his job this week: check out our weekly Hot Seat column here.
Hierarchy remains: Perkins | Jepsen | May.
March 24, 2016
Minnesota Twins — Trevor May will begin the season in the bullpen, according to manager Paul Molitor. May was solid in relief last season and will likely return to his role in the seventh inning.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Jepsen | May.
February 29, 2016
Minnesota Twins — Glen Perkins had a tough second half of 2015, but he will start 2016 as the closer for the Twins again. Kevin Jepsen filled in for Perkins at the end of last season and will be right behind him in case anything happens, and Casey Fien will also return. Trevor May pitched well out of the pen last season, but he could move to the starting rotation this year.
Starting 2016 hierarchy: Perkins | Jepsen | Fien.
Holds candidates: Jepsen, Fien, Fernando Abad.
September 24, 2015
Minnesota Twins — Last night, Glen Perkins gave up a pair of runs with the Twins up by four, but was able to hold on for the win. Immediately after the last pitch, he was ejected from the game by home plate umpire Dan Bellino for arguing about the strike zone. While this probably won’t lead to a suspension, Bellino is lucky he got away with only some yelling. Perkins is the team’s creepiest dancer, and may have unleashed his moves if he was provoked any further.
Hierarchy remains: Jepsen | Perkins | May.
September 23, 2015
Minnesota Twins — Glen Perkins is back, and he pitched out of an inherited jam on Tuesday to get the Twins out of the 8th inning with their two-run lead intact. Trevor May was unavailable with a lingering left hip/back issue, and the Twins are willing to let May “get it right” instead of rushing him back. Perkins now has three straight clean appearance since his cortisone shot, and with May potentially out a few more days, the former closer is in line for some more high-leverage work.
Updated hierarchy: Jepsen | Perkins | May.
September 11, 2015
Minnesota Twins — Glen Perkins received a cortisone shot earlier this week, and tweeted yesterday morning that he “felt great” after doing “40 back bridges, 10 min on elliptical, 30 wall squats, 30 calf raises.” Perkins added that he intends to play catch on Saturday, which could lead to a return during your fantasy playoffs. Of course, he won’t be the closer immediately when he does return.
Hierarchy remains: Jepsen | May | Fien.
September 10, 2015
Minnesota Twins — Kevin Jepsen has been excellent since taking over the closer role, including a perfect 12th inning last night to pick up his 12th save. The only run he has given up in his time as the closer was in a game on Sept. 5, and he still earned the save. Manager Paul Molitor has taken notice as well and has said that Glen Perkins will not immediately be the closer if/when he comes back. The injured reliever is currently considering a cortisone injection in his lower back.
Hierarchy remains: Jepsen | May | Fien.
September 4, 2015
Minnesota Twins — Glen Perkins said he felt good after his most recent outing Tuesday, but (as we told you yesterday) when he woke up on Wednesday, he couldn’t get out of bed. “It completely blindsided me,” Perkins said. “The muscles are spasming. I irritated something, and my back’s [not happy about it].” With the expanded September rosters, Perkins won’t go on the DL, but Kevin Jepsen could be serving as the fill-in closer for quite a while.
Updated hierarchy: Jepsen | May | Fien.
September 3, 2015
Minnesota Twins — Glen Perkins woke up this morning barely able to walk and won’t go on the Twins upcoming road trip. Kevin Jepsen has done an admirable job filling in for him and will continue to close in Perkins’s absence.
Updated hierarchy: Jepsen | May | Fien.
September 3, 2015
Minnesota Twins – A day after Glen Perkins picked up his 32nd save of the year, he was unavailable with a back strain. Kevin Jepsen took the 9th in his absence and continues to pitch well bouncing between being a set-up man and a closer. Perkins is getting an MRI and may be out for a few days, but the injury is not considered serious. The Twins clearly want him to be the closer when he is healthy, and the team is still in the thick of the wild-card race.
Hierarchy remains: Perkins | Jepsen | May.
August 29, 2015
Minnesota Twins – Kevin Jepsen did indeed get the save on Friday, but Glen Perkins returned from his back spasms to pitch a scoreless seventh, and will return to the closer role going forward.
Hierarchy remains: Perkins | Jepsen | May.
August 28, 2015
Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins is dealing with lower back spasms and was unavailable for the third straight game Thursday. Paul Molitor said Perkins tried to play catch and do light movements on the field before the game, but was held out of those activities as a precaution. He did do some throwing, though, and looked “a lot better.” Molitor said he could be available Friday night — we’ve heard this song before — and there’s no plan to put Perkins on the DL. Kevin Jepsen will continue to see fill-in save opportunities, with Trevor May and Casey Fien backing him up.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Jepsen | May.
August 27, 2015
Minnesota Twins – So much for feeling better. Kevin Jepsen closed out a 5-3 win on Wednesday, and after the game closer Glen Perkins revealed that he has been sidelined not because of his neck but because of back spasms. The injury occurred on Sunday against Baltimore, and Perkins remains day-to-day. Some good news for the Twins’ bullpen is that Blaine Boyer was activated from the DL prior to Wednesday’s game and pitched two scoreless innings of relief to pick up his 16th hold of the season.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Jepsen | Boyer.
August 26, 2015
Minnesota Twins – In a radio interview on Tuesday, Glen Perkins said he felt “better than [he] had in a long time” after his return to the bullpen Sunday. His velocity was down, which he attributed to not pitching in six days. He wasn’t used in last night’s game, but it wasn’t a save situation and Jepsen took the 9th inning. While Perkins is saying all the right things, the Twins are likely to be cautious with Perkins in the short term, and he may lose out on some save opportunities until he can get back to where he was. He keeps his spot for now, but with Jepsen pitching well, this is a situation that is far from resolved.
Hierarchy remains: Perkins | Jepsen | May.
August 24, 2015
Minnesota Twins – Tommy Milone picked up his first save of the season in a 12-inning game against the Orioles on Sunday. He does not factor in to the Twins usual late-inning plans.
Hierarchy remains: Perkins | Jepsen | May.
August 23, 2015
Minnesota Twins – The Twins bullpen performed well again yesterday without regular closer Glen Perkins. Kevin Jepsen pitched a perfect ninth for the save, while Trevor May struck out the side in a scoreless eighth. Perkins, who has been battling this neck problem for six weeks, played catch yesterday and “felt great.” Perkins is scheduled to throw a bullpen today and could return Tuesday.
Hierarchy remains: Perkins | Jepsen | May.
August 22, 2015
Minnesota Twins – Sure enough, with Glen Perkins unavailable with neck problems, Kevin Jepsen got the save chance and converted with three strikeouts. Trevor May paved the way with a clean eighth.
Hierarchy remains: Perkins | Jepsen | May.
August 21, 2015
Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins received a cortisone shot on Wednesday and hopes to play catch before the weekend. If all goes well, Perkins could be back by next Tuesday; until then, Minnesota will split save opportunities between Kevin Jepsen and Trevor May.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Jepsen | May.
August 20, 2015
Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins had an MRI on Wednesday, and while the results aren’t expected until today, he is on track to rejoin the team for this weekend’s series in Baltimore. While the Twins are still chasing a wild card slot, and a healthy Glen Perkins is their best bet at closer, this is similar to the neck injury that caused him trouble at the end of last year. This is still a situation in progress, and if the MRI comes back with bad news, or Perkins cannot get back on track, Kevin Jepsen will be the first one to get save opportunities. Jepsen is worth an add in the short term no matter what, as Perkins isn’t expected to throw for a couple days.
Hierarchy remains: Perkins | Jepsen | Fien.
August 19, 2015
Minnesota Twins –Glen Perkins flew back to Minnesota on Tuesday and will have an MRI on Wednesday, in addition to a cortisone injection. Manager Paul Molitor hopes the injection will provide some relief, which Molitor himself could use for his exhausted bullpen. Kevin Jepsen and Casey Fien were both rested last night, and it resulted in J.R. Graham blowing a 7th-inning lead. Jepsen and Fien will be the most likely candidates for saves in Perkins’ absence, with Fien perhaps getting the nod on Wednesday since he’s thrown fewer pitches than Jepsen over the last four days.
Hierarchy remains: Perkins | Jepsen | Fien.
August 15, 2015
Minnesota Twins – A trip to the disabled list for Phil Hughes has forced Paul Molitor to move Trevor May back into the Minnesota rotation, perhaps permanently. May had been successful as a reliever, and with Blaine Boyer also hitting the DL (elbow inflammation), the Twins will now be forced to rely heavily on Casey Fien and Kevin Jepsen to set up Glen Perkins.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Jepsen | Fien.
August 8, 2015
Minnesota Twins – With Trevor May adapting well to the bullpen, Paul Molitor told the media that the rookie will be the team’s primary setup guy going forward.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | May | Jepsen.
August 1, 2015
Minnesota Twins – Although the Twins have foundered as of late, losing 9 of 13 since the All-Star break, the team has hung onto the second wild card position. Their acquisition of Kevin Jepsen should help strengthen a suspect bullpen that has relied on the lackluster duo of Casey Fien and Blaine Boyer to bridge the gap to Glen Perkins. Joining Jepsen in high-leverage use will be erstwhile starter Trevor May, a rookie with swing-and-miss stuff.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Jepsen | May.
June 28, 2015
Minnesota Twins – Casey Fien pitched a scoreless 8th inning last night ahead of closer Glen Perkins. Fien has only given up one run since returning from the DL at the end of May and looks to be regaining his 8th inning role for the Twins.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Fien | Boyer.
May 31, 2015
Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins got the day off on Saturday and the Twins went to Blaine Boyer to close out the game. Boyer pitched a perfect 9th to record his first save of the season. Boyer should continue to see save chances when Perkins is unavailable.
Hierarchy remains: Perkins | Boyer | Fien.
May 30, 2015
Minnesota Twins – Casey Fien returned from the disabled list and immediately pitched the eighth inning in a tie game. Paul Molitor explained, however, that Blaine Boyer will remain in the primary setup role for now.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Boyer | Fien.
May 16, 2015
Minnesota Twins – Blaine Boyer has overcome a rocky start to take on a vital set-up role for Minnesota in Casey Fien’s absence. Boyer, who is 33 and was out of baseball in 2012, hasn’t been scored on since April 12 (13 appearances). Brian Duensing slides out of the hierarchy; he has struggled immensely in six games since returning from the disabled list (3 ER, 13 baserunners in 3.1 innings).
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Boyer | Thompson.
May 3, 2015
Minnesota Twins – The Twins activated Brian Duensing from the DL on Saturday and immediately inserted him into a tight situation in the 8th inning. He ended up walking the only batter he faced, but he had a hold and a save before going on the DL and should continue to see time in the later innings.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Thompson | Duensing.
May 1, 2015
Minnesota Twins – Twins setup man Casey Fien was placed on the disabled list due to soreness in his shoulder. For now, we’ll slide Aaron Thompson to the first-in-line slot and Blaine Boyer behind him, but keep an eye on Brian Duensing, who could be activated from the DL this weekend and may sneak back into the Closer Monkey hierarchy.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Thompson | Boyer.
April 18, 2015
Minnesota Twins — Brian Duensing is headed to the disabled list for the first time in his career, with a strained intercostal muscle. Paul Molitor sees fellow lefty Aaron Thompson, who pitched two scoreless innings in a tie game on Friday, sliding into Duensing’s role.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Fien | Thompson.
April 11, 2015
Minnesota Twins — Lefty Brian Duensing came on to face a lefty to close the eighth, with Minnesota up three runs. When the Twins scored three more in the top half of the ninth, he stayed on to finish the game, earning an unusual save.
Hierarchy remains: Perkins | Fien | Duensing.
March 6, 2015
Minnesota Twins — Glen Perkins missed the end of the 2014 season, but he’s healthy now, and ready to close again for the Twins. Righty Casey Fien and lefty Brian Duensing will likely start the season in the back end of the bullpen. Tim Stauffer is competing for the fifth spot in the rotation, but if he doesn’t win the job, he could also be an option in the later innings.
Starting 2015 hierarchy: Perkins | Fien | Duensing.
Holds candidates: Fien, Duensing.
September 19, 2014
Minnesota Twins – The Twins will indeed shut down Glen Perkins for the remainder of the season — the lefty has nerve inflammation in his elbow. Expect Jared Burton will likely get the bulk of the save opps the rest of the way, with Casey Fien also potentially getting a chance here or there.
Updated hierarchy: Burton | Fien | Duensing.
September 19, 2014
Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins has some nerve irritation, but the injury isn’t particularly serious. No word yet on if he’s going to be shut down for the season, but if so, Jared Burton is the best bet for saves in the season’s final week.
Hierarchy remains: Perkins | Burton | Fien.
September 18, 2014
Minnesota Twins — Glen Perkins has had an abysmal September, and Twins doctors performed an MRI on his entire arm on Wednesday to try to find out why. Jared Burton was in line for the vulture save last night until Minnesota scored a few runs in the eighth; he will serve as interim closer for as long as Perkins is out.
Hierarchy remains: Perkins | Burton | Fien.
September 10, 2014
Minnesota Twins — With Glen Perkins still battling tingling in his shoulder and neck, Jared Burton earned Tuesday night’s save. Perkins hopes to return to action on Wednesday.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Burton | Fien.
July 15, 2014
Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins should remain the Twins closer, despite the club sitting in the AL Central cellar. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: None
July 7, 2014
Minnesota Twins – Casey Fien pitched the 8th inning ahead of closer Glen Perkins for the second day in a row on Saturday. Fien struggled a little bit in the middle of June when he took losses in back-to-back appearances, including a blown save, but has picked it back up since then. Fien has only given up one run in his last seven games and, with an ERA less than half of Jared Burton’s, it looks like Fien is re-establishing himself as the primary backup to Perkins.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Fien | Burton.
June 23, 2014
Minnesota Twins – With Glen Perkins unavailable, Jared Burton picked up his first save of the season on Sunday. It appears that with his blown save earlier this week, Casey Fien (who pitched the 8th ahead of Burton on Sunday) lost his chance to be Perkins’s backup, despite having a far better ERA than Burton.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Burton | Fien.
June 19, 2014
Minnesota Twins — With Glen Perkins sidelined with a bad back, Casey Fien got the call for a save opportunity in the tenth in Boston, only to give up consecutive home runs to lose the game. Perkins, who blamed himself for the loss, expects to be available on Thursday.
Hierarchy remains: Perkins | Fien | Duensing.
June 12, 2014
Minnesota Twins — Casey Fien picked up an unusual save by coming in for the last out of the eighth with two on in a four-run game, then finishing the ninth up five. He relieved Jared Burton, who has been surprisingly bad this season, with as many earned runs as strikeouts. Lefty Brian Duensing’s peripherals are only slightly better, but his ERA is half that of Burton, and he’s been getting some seventh-inning love lately.
Updated hierarchy: Perkins | Fien | Duensing.
May 5, 2014
Minnesota Twins – On Saturday, Casey Fien got the 8th and Jared Burton pitched the 9th, which is about how you’d expect a team to use its top middle relievers when up by 5 runs. But on Sunday, with an 8th inning hold up for grabs, it was Fien who was summoned ahead of Glen Perkins. It wasn’t a usage issue, as over the prior three nights, Fien had actually thrown 10 more pitches. More likely, it looks like Ron Gardenhire has finally realized that he has better 8th inning options than the veteran righty, who is sporting an ERA just a shade below 8 thus far. Hierarchy change: Casey Fien to Set-up, Jared Burton to 2nd in line.
May 2, 2014
Minnesota Twins – Coming in to 2014, Jared Burton had every reason to be given a long leash as the Twins primary set-up man, as he was the team’s steadiest and best middle reliever over the past two years. But it’s been a different story for the righty this year, as he’s got an ERA of almost 9 and a 6/9 K/BB ratio through 10.1 innings thus far. Despite the terrible numbers, he was still being used ahead of Glen Perkins — prior to Thursday, his last two outings were 8th inning holds. But maybe Ron Gardenhire has finally realized that he’s actually got a great bullpen this year (Casey Fien, Brian Duensing, and Michael Tonkin have all been excellent), and yesterday, Burton was finally given a low-leverage inning to sort himself out. We still get the feeling that Burton could be used as the backup closer if Perkins needs a night off, so we’ll monitor his usage closely over the weekend. No hierarchy change.
March 13, 2014
Minnesota Twins — The team was lousy, but it wasn’t Glen Perkins’s fault. The Twins should almost certainly improve, and their closer’s job security is excellent. Ranked #8 in our preseason closer rankings.
March 9, 2014
Minnesota Twins – The Twins will return most of their key bullpen arms from last year and didn’t make any big adds to their relief corps. Glen Perkins will be the closer again, with Jared Burton and Casey Fien setting him up. Starting 2014 hierarchy: Closer – Glen Perkins, Set-up – Jared Burton, 2nd in line – Casey Fien.
September 4, 2013
Minnesota Twins — Glen Perkins got within one out of collecting his 33rd save, but then put two men on and gave up a game-tying home run. Josh Roenicke eventually picked up the twelfth-inning save. No hierarchy change.
August 28, 2013
Minnesota Twins — Jared Burton picked up his second straight loss and eighth of the season by entering a tied game and surrendering three singles and a walk. No hierarchy change.
August 18, 2013
Minnesota Twins — Casey Fien has an astronomical 23.63 ERA over his last three appearances. Hierarchy change: Jared Burton to Set-up, Casey Fien to 2nd in line.
July 21, 2013
Minnesota Twins – For the second night in a row, Casey Fien pitched the 8th ahead of Glen Perkins while Jared Burton pitched in the 7th inning. Fien has made 11 straight scoreless appearances, lowering his ERA to 2.88 on the season. Hierarchy change: Casey Fien to Set-up, Jared Burton to 2nd in line.
July 17, 2013
Minnesota Twins — Glen Perkins is too good a closer to stay on this bad Minnesota team; if he’s traded, he’ll almost certainly be closing for a contender, while Ron Gardenhire goes to Jared (Burton) and dreams of someday getting a ring. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: BUY Glen Perkins, Jared Burton.
July 14, 2013
Minnesota Twins – Casey Fien pitched the 8th ahead of Glen Perkins last night to pick up his 10th hold of the season. Fien has not allowed a run, and has only given up 4 hits, in his last 9 appearances. Hierarchy change: Casey Fien to 2nd in line, replacing Caleb Thielbar.
June 22, 2013
Minnesota Twins – Caleb Thielbar has a 0.00 ERA in 12.2 innings since being called up in late May and should see time later in games if he keeps that up. Hierarchy change: Caleb Thielbar to 2nd in line, replacing Casey Fien.
May 31, 2013
Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins had the night off on Thursday, so as predicted in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch, Jared Burton picked up his second save of the year. No hierarchy change.
May 29, 2013
Minnesota Twins — Brian Duensing got his first save of the season on Tuesday by pitching a scoreless fourteenth inning. No hierarchy change.
May 23, 2013
Minnesota Twins – Josh Roenicke relieved Vance Worley in the 4th inning yesterday and his usage has been all over the place this season. Casey Fien pitched a scoreless 7th on Tuesday and has seen more action later in games. Hierarchy change: Casey Fien to 2nd in line, replacing Josh Roenicke.
May 12, 2013
Minnesota Twins – Jared Burton picked up the save last night. Glen Perkins was unavailable yesterday with a sore left side but it does not appear to be serious. No hierarchy change.
May 6, 2013
Minnesota Twins – Josh Roenicke picked up two 7th inning holds over the weekend, and appears to have established himself as the 7th inning man, ahead of Glen Perkins and Jared Burton. Roenicke doesn’t have overpowering stuff — he’s struck out 10 and walked 6 in 14 innings this year — but he’s been effective thus far, with a 1.29 ERA. Hierarchy change: Josh Roenicke to 2nd in line, replacing Brian Duensing.
February 24, 2013
Minnesota Twins – Starting 2013 hierarchy: Closer- Glen Perkins, Set-up- Jared Burton, 2nd in line- Brian Duensing.
September 26, 2012
Minnesota Twins – Casey Fien pitched the 7th inning on Tuesday, earning the win ahead of Jared Burton and Glen Perkins. Fien has a 1.62 ERA on the year and has allowed 0 or 1 earned runs in all but one of his 32 appearances. Hierarchy change: Casey Fien to 2nd in line, replacing Alex Burnett.
August 4, 2012
Minnesota Twins – Jared Burton picked up the save on Friday. As noted in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch, Glen Perkins had pitched 2 innings the previous night. While this is still a platoon, Perkins is still the most likely candidate for a save on any given night. No hierarchy change.
July 30, 2012
Minnesota Twins – Alex Burnett pitched the 7th inning on Sunday ahead of Jared Burton and Glen Perkins, earning his 7th hold of the season. Tyler Robertson has struggled as of late, giving up runs in his last three appearances. Hierarchy change: Alex Burnett to 2nd in line, replacing Tyler Robertson.
July 18, 2012
Minnesota Twins – Before Tuesday’s game, the Twins said Matt Capps would be unavailable due to a strained shoulder; then, in the wee hours this morning, they put him back on the DL. Glen Perkins and Jared Burton will resume their closer-by-committee in the mean time. Burton got the save last night. Hierarchy change: Glen Perkins to Closer, Jared Burton to Set-up, Tyler Robertson to 2nd in line, Matt Capps to DL.
July 14, 2012
Minnesota Twins – The Twins activated Matt Capps from the DL. He will resume closing immediately, as the Twins are hoping to build his value so they can deal him. Hierarchy change: Matt Capps to Closer, Glen Perkins to Set-up, Jared Burton to 2nd in line.
July 13, 2012
Minnesota Twins – Once Matt Capps returns from the DL, the Twins will look to deal him. With his paltry strikeout rates, it’s unlikely that he would land anywhere where he could close, and his value will almost certainly plummet. Glen Perkins, who just signed a three-year extension, won’t be going anywhere and stands to continue getting saves. TRADE DEADLINE BUY+: Glen Perkins. BUY: Jared Burton. SELL+: Matt Capps.
July 4, 2012
Minnesota Twins – Tyler Robertson pitched a perfect 8th with the Twins up 1 as he picked up his 2nd hold in three games. Robertson was called up from Triple-A Rochester when Matt Capps was put on the DL and has been used in a bunch of late inning situations. He also has some closer experience in the minors as he has 18 saves over the past two seasons. Hierarchy change: Tyler Robertson to 2nd in line replacing Alex Burnett.
June 26, 2012
Minnesota Twins – With two lefthanders due up in the 8th inning, the Twins summoned Glen Perkins, leaving the ninth to Jared Burton. Burton earned his second save in as many days, after Perkins got the first two opportunities last week in Matt Capps’s absence. The Twins will use a true committee going forward, basing the 9th inning role on match ups, Ron Gardenhire said before the game. But given Gardenhire’s aversion to using Burton against lefties– and his reluctance to use Burton too frequently due to the righty’s injury history, which he referenced before Monday’s game– Perkins is still the more likely candidate for a save on any given night, since he’s shown the ability to get both righties and lefties out. No hierarchy change.
June 25, 2012
Minnesota Twins – Matt Capps appears headed for the DL after returning early to Minnesota for an MRI. Ron Gardenhire said that until Capps’s return, Glen Perkins and Jared Burton would share opportunities based on match ups. Burton got the call on Sunday, picking up his first save of the season, but Perkins is more likely to see the majority of chances over the next few weeks. Hierarchy change: Glen Perkins to Closer, Jared Burton to Set-up, Alex Burnett to 2nd in line, Matt Capps to DL.
June 24, 2012
Minnesota Twins – Speaking on his weekly radio show, Ron Gardenhire said this morning that Matt Capps could be headed to the disabled list with a sore right shoulder. Capps is headed back to Minnesota for an MRI. Hierarchy change: Glen Perkins to Closer, Jared Burton to Set-up, Alex Burnett to 2nd in line, Matt Capps to DL.
June 23, 2012
Minnesota Twins – Glen Perkins picked up his second save of the week on Friday. As noted in yesterday’s vulture save watch, Matt Capps is still nursing an injury, but should be back soon. No hierarchy change.
June 21, 2012
Minnesota Twins – With Matt Capps dealing with an inflamed right shoulder, Glen Perkins picked up the save on Wednesday, pitching a clean inning. Capps is expected back in a day or two. No hierarchy change.
April 20, 2012
Minnesota Twins – Jared Burton pitched the 8th inning on Wednesday, logging his second hold of the season. Meanwhile, Jeff Gray appears to have been relegated to a front-end role in the bullpen; he pitched in the 3rd inning on Thursday. Hierarchy change: Jared Burton to 2nd in line, replacing Jeff Gray.
April 15, 2012
Minnesota Twins – Jeff Gray has established himself as the go-to lefty in the Twins bullpen, and has surpassed Alex Burnett on the depth chart, who thus far is mostly being used in long relief. Hierarchy change: Jeff Gray to 2nd in line, replacing Alex Burnett.
March 19, 2012
Minnesota Twins- Joe Nathan signed with the Rangers so the Twins re-signed Matt Capps and he will start the year as the closer. If Capps falters as he did last year then Glen Perkins may see some saves. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Matt Capps, Set-up- Glen Perkins, 2nd in line- Alex Burnett.
Dec. 15, 2011
Minnesota Twins- Joe Nathan has been signed away by the Rangers, which means Matt Capps will reassume the closer role in 2012. Hierarchy change: Matt Capps to Closer, Jose Mijares to 2nd in line.
