Tampa Bay Rays

Tampa Bay Rays Fantasy Baseball Daily Bullpen Updates and Closer Depth Chart

*= closer-by-committee

Previous updates:

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

September 27, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Preserving a one-run win and recording his fifth save, Edwin Uceta navigated around a one-out Vaughn Grissom single with a flyout and a game-ending strikeout. He threw 17 pitches (76.5 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%). Since August 20, he’s recorded a win and converted all five save chances with 22 strikeouts against four walks through 13 innings. Manuel Rodríguez notched his 11th hold, firing a clean bottom of the eighth and striking out two. Colin Poche gave up two hits and an earned run while getting credit for his 20th hold.

Hierarchy remains: *Edwin Uceta | *Garrett Cleavinger | *Hunter Bigge

*= closer-by-committee

September 22, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – A white-knuckle top of the ninth ended with Edwin Uceta recording his fourth save. His outing began with a lead-off walk, a strikeout, a double, and Vlad Guerrero Jr.’s RBI single. With one out, Uceta bore down, inducing a pop-out and a game-ending groundout. He threw 19 pitches (12 strikes – 63.2 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (15.8 SwStr%).

• Hunter Bigge stranded two runners while striking out his only batter in the eighth, notching his first hold.
• Richard Lovelady gave up two hits and recorded two strikeouts for his fourth hold.
• Kevin Kelly was awarded his third blown save and a fifth win, letting one of two inherited runners score in one-third of the seventh.
• Colin Poche allowed two hits and an earned run while striking out one in two-thirds of the seventh, getting credit for his 19th hold.

Hierarchy remains: *Edwin Uceta | *Garrett Cleavinger | *Hunter Bigge

September 21, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Shutting the door on his first save of the season and second of his career, Drew Rasmussen fired two clean frames while recording three strikeouts during a one-run win over Toronto. He threw 28 pitches (18 strikes – 64.3 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (17.9 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in four of his six outings in September with two losses, a save, and two holds while striking out 13 against two walks across 10.2 innings. He’s the 13th pitcher with a save for the Rays this season, most in the major leagues. 

• Garrett Cleavinger gets credited with his 15th hold despite giving up a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one in the seventh.
• Manuel Rodríguez stranded two runners for his tenth hold, retiring his only batter in the sixth.
• Mason Montgomery allowed two hits and recorded a strikeout in two-thirds of the sixth, notching his third hold.

Hierarchy remains: *Edwin Uceta | *Garrett Cleavinger | *Hunter Bigge

September 20, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Recording his first career save, Hunter Bigge fired a clean top of the ninth while striking out two during a 1-0 win over Toronto. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%) facing the 6-7-8 lineup pocket. He’s been scoreless in six of his seven appearances this month and recorded multiple strikeouts in four.

• Colin Poche stranded a runner and retired his only batter, Spencer Horwitz, via strikeout for his 18th hold.
• Edwin Uceta allowed a walk during two-thirds scoreless in the eighth for his seventh hold. He matched up against the 2-3-4 batters.
• Manuel Rodríguez gave up two hits in a scoreless seventh, securing his ninth hold.
• Kevin Kelly logged 1.2 scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out two while collecting his fourth win. 

Updated Hierarchy: *Edwin Uceta | *Garrett Cleavinger | *Hunter Bigge

September 19, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Although the Red Sox had three left-handed hitters scheduled at the top of the ninth, Garrett Cleavinger retired all three right-handed pinch hitters, two via strikeout for his sixth save. He threw 19 pitches (15 strikes – 78.9 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (26.3 SwStr%).

• Edwin Uceta faced the 5-6-7 batters, firing a clean eighth and striking out two on 15 pitches (93.3 Strike%) with six whiffs (40 SwStr%).

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

*=  closer-by-committee

September 13, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Back from his suspension, Edwin Uceta nailed down his third save, retiring all five batters faced, two via strikeout during a two-run win in Cleveland. He threw 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). He’s recorded multiple-inning saves in two of his last three outings and been scoreless in four of five appearances this month, with 11 strikeouts against one walk during his 5.2 innings.

• Mason Montgomery was credited with his second hold despite giving up two hits and an earned run while striking out one in one-third of the eighth.
• Kevin Kelly worked a scoreless seventh, walking and striking out one for his 16th hold.

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

*=  closer-by-committee

September 12, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Five relievers combined for seven shutout innings, culminating in the second save for Richard Lovelady. He retired the side against the Guardians’ 6-7-8 lineup lineup on six pitches.

• Manuel Rodríguez matched up with the 2-3-4 hitters, giving up a two-out single and striking out two for his eighth hold.
• Garrett Cleavinger tossed a scoreless seventh, allowing a walk. Mason Montgomery notched his first hold, firing a clean sixth and striking out two.
• Cole Sulser collected his first win. He logged three scoreless frames, issuing a walk and recording four strikeouts.

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

*=  closer-by-committee

September 10, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Taking over at the bottom of the seventh, Manuel Rodríguez allowed a hit and was removed with two outs.

• Richard Lovelady stranded the runner but ran into trouble in the eighth. He issued a one-out walk and a double before his removal. Lovelady was tagged with his sixth loss, giving up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds combined innings.
• Edwin Uceta entered with two runners on and one out, letting both score on Cal Stevenson’s two-RBI single. After recording a strikeout, he allowed an RBI single and Trea Turner’s two-run home run, followed by Bryce Harper’s double, and ended with hitting Nick Castellanos with a pitch. Uceta only recorded one out while yielding four hits and three earned runs.
• Hunter Bigge retired his only batter faced via strikeout, stranding two runners. 

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

*=  closer-by-committee

September 9, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Taking over with one out at the bottom of the ninth, Garrett Cleavinger suffered his fourth loss. He allowed three hits, including Kody Clemens’ walk-off RBI single, resulting in his fourth loss.

• Manuel Rodríguez recorded 1.1 clean frames and one strikeout. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s been scoreless in six of his last seven but has not recorded a save since August 27.
• Mason Montgomery issued two walks and struck out one during a scoreless seventh.
• Kevin Kelly gave up a hit during two-thirds scoreless in the sixth.

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

*=  closer-by-committee

September 8, 2024

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

• Garrett Cleavinger gets credit for his 12th hold, allowing a hit and a walk in one-third of the eighth.
• Kevin Kelly retired both batters, one via strikeout in the seventh for his 15th hold.
• Richard Lovelady tossed 1.1 clean frames and struck out one, notching his third hold.

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

*=  closer-by-committee

September 3, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Taking over with two runners on and two outs, Garrett Cleavinger retired pinch-hitter Christian Vazquez on a game-ending groundout for his fifth save. Despite allowing at least a run in his four previous outings, he was trusted in a high-leverage spot. He’s converted five of six save chances this season.

• Edwin Uceta opened the ninth by allowing consecutive singles, then recorded two strikeouts before being removed. He gets credit for his fifth hold.
• Drew Rasmussen notched his second hold, firing two clean frames and recording three strikeouts. He threw 22 pitches (16 strikes – 72.7 Strike%) and generated eight whiffs (36.4 SwStr%).

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

*=  closer-by-committee

September 1, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Entering a tied game at the top of the ninth, Manuel Rodríguez suffered his fourth loss. He issued Jake Cronenworth a lead-off walk, a leverage no-no, followed by Manny Machado’s single, putting runners on the corners, and the game-winning run on Xander Bogaerts’ sacrifice fly. Rodríguez allowed a hit, an earned run, and a walk.

• Edwin Uceta retired all four batters, two via strikeout, and stranded a runner in the seventh.
• Richard Lovelady issued two walks during a coreless combined inning.

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

*=  closer-by-committee

Tampa Bay Rays – Securing his second save, Manuel Rodríguez worked around Mitch Haniger’s two-out single with a game-ending strikeout of Luke Raley, preserving a one-run win in Seattle. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in ten of 11 outings in August with two wins and two saves while producing a 13:4 K:BB over 9.2 innings.

• Kevin Kelly stranded two runners, striking out Randy Arozarena in the bottom of the eighth for his 14th hold.
• Garrett Cleavinger was credited with his 11th hold despite giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one.
• Colin Poche notched his 17th hold with a clean seventh and two strikeouts.
• Edwin Uceta faced the top of the Mariners’ lineup in the sixth, allowing a hit, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out three. He collected his second win courtesy of a two-run rally in the seventh. He threw 25 pitches (56 Strike%) and induced three whiffs.

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

*=  closer-by-committee

August 24, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Entering with a two-run lead and matched up against the top of the Dodgers’ lineup, Garrett Cleavinger secured his fourth save. He allowed the “place” runner to score on a Mookie Betts sacrifice fly but preserved a one-run win in the bottom of the tenth.

• Manuel Rodríguez collected his third win. He worked a scoreless ninth, issuing a walk and striking out two on 20 pitches (55 Strike%) with three whiffs (15 SwStr%).
• Joel Kuhnel allowed Miguel Rojas’ solo home run during his two innings of relief. 

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

*=  closer-by-committee

August 23, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Summoned with two outs and two runners on, Colin Poche issued a walk and allowed Shohei Ohtani’s walk-off grand slam, resulting in two earned runs on his ledger.

• Manuel Rodríguez took over a tied game in the bottom of the ninth, allowing a hit and a hit batter. He suffered his third loss and was tagged with two earned runs due to the walk-off rally.
• Garrett Cleavinger logged 1.1 scoreless frames, stranding a runner in the seventh after retiring Ohtani.
• Edwin Uceta entered in the sixth and navigated around two hits while striking out three in 1.1 scoreless frames. He matched up with the Dodgers’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket upon entry. 

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

*=  closer-by-committee

National League

August 21, 2024

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

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

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

*=  closer-by-committee

August 20, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Entering against the top of the A’s lineup in the bottom of the eighth, Edwin Uceta retired all four batters faced, including one on a strikeout, for his first major league save. He only needed nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). He remains unscored upon through eight appearances in August, spanning 10.1 innings while posting 12 strikeouts versus one walk with a minuscule 0.29 WHIP. 

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

*=  closer-by-committee

August 18, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – With Marc Topkin reporting Pete Fairbanks will be placed on the 15-day injured list with a lat injury, it creates chaos for fantasy managers. Nine different relievers have recorded a save for the Rays this season, even with Fairbanks being the closer when healthy. In the second half, Edwin Uceta has emerged as a trusted option. Including Sunday’s appearance, he’s been scoreless in 10 of 11 games since the All-Star break with 23 strikeouts against two walks (37.5 K-BB%) with a 0.56 WHIP through 16 innings. He would be the preferred save share, but there are no guarantees. In a match-up-based approach, Garrett Cleavinger could be deployed against left-handed hitting pockets. Hopefully this plays out, and Hunter Bigge gets recalled for future leverage appearances. 

Navigating around a bunt single with a fielder’s choice grounder cutting down the “place” runner at home and two strikeouts, Edwin Uceta worked a scoreless top of the 12th. He collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off in the bottom of the inning. He’s been scoreless in 10 of 11 appearances in the second half, with 23 strikeouts against two walks across 16 innings.

• Kevin Kelly worked a clean 11th and struck out one.
• Garrett Cleavinger allowed a hit, an unearned run, and a walk over 1.1 innings.
• Pete Fairbanks suffered his fourth blown save. He gave up three hits, including Adrian Del Castillo’s game-tying three-run home run in the top of the ninth. He left with an injury after two-thirds of an inning.
• Colin Poche notched his 16th hold, stranding a runner and retiring his only batter in the eighth.

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

*=  closer-by-committee

August 16, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Despite allowing Corbin Carroll’s game-tying two-run home run, resulting in his first blown save since June 20, Pete Fairbanks collected his third win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the ninth. This snapped a stretch of nine straight scoreless outings for the closer. He gave up three hits and two earned runs while striking out one on 23 pitches (15 strikes – 65.2 Strike%) with one whiff.

• Colin Poche tossed a scoreless eighth, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out one.
• Kevin Kelly logged 1.2 scoreless frames and issued a walk.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Colin Poche | Manuel Rodríguez

August 14, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – In the top of the tenth, Garrett Cleavinger issued a walk with two outs, then allowed Mauricio Dubón’s RBI single, scoring the “place” runner and resulting in his third loss.

• Pete Fairbanks retired the side on nine pitches (55.6 Strike%) in the top of the ninth, keeping the game tied. This extends his scoreless streak to nine games, racking up eight strikeouts with no walks and a minuscule 0.22 WHIP over nine innings.
• Manuel Rodríguez tossed a clean eighth and struck out one.
• Kevin Kelly recorded a clean seventh, striking out one.
• Edwin Uceta worked a scoreless sixth, issuing a walk and striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Colin Poche | Manuel Rodríguez

August 11, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Protecting a one-run lead, Pete Fairbanks secured his 23rd save. He worked around a two-out single by Cedric Mullins and recorded all three outs via strikeout. He threw 14 pitches (12 strikes – 85.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 Strike%). He’s converted 13 straight save chances and been scoreless over his last eight appearances.

• Manuel Rodríguez earned his second win. He navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out one for a scoreless eighth, ahead of his team’s go-ahead rally in the bottom of the inning.
• Edwin Uceta worked two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Colin Poche | Manuel Rodríguez

August 8, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Capping a comeback win, Pete Fairbanks nailed down his 22nd save with a clean bottom of the ninth, preserving a two-run win in St. Louis. He threw eight pitches (87.5 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s been scoreless in his last six games and converted 12 consecutive save chances since June 23.

• Colin Poche notched his 15th hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the eighth.
• Manuel Rodríguez secured his seventh hold, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless seventh.
• Richard Lovelady collected his third win, giving up two hits during a scoreless sixth. 

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Colin Poche | Manuel Rodríguez

August 4, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Preserving a combined shutout, Pete Fairbanks shut the door on his 21st save with a clean ninth and two strikeouts. He threw 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (54.5 SwStr%). He’s converted 11 straight saves and been scoreless in his last five appearances.

• Manuel Rodríguez notched his sixth hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the eighth.
• Edwin Uceta logged two clean frames and recorded two strikeouts for his third hold.
• Tyler Alexander collected his fifth win. He pitched 4.1 scoreless innings, giving up two hits and a walk while striking out five.

Updated Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Colin Poche | Manuel Rodríguez

July 30, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – In ascending order of appearance, Tyler Alexander collected his fourth win. He took over in the fourth and logged 2.1 innings, giving up a hit and an earned run while striking out three.

• Kevin Kelly navigated around two hits and recorded a strikeout in two-thirds scoreless in the seventh.
• Garrett Cleavinger notched his ninth hold, stranding two runners and striking out his only batter in the seventh.
• Manuel Rodríguez retired the side and struck out one in the eighth.
• Hunter Bigge tossed a scoreless ninth, yielding a hit and closing out the six-run win in his team debut.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Colin Poche | Kevin Kelly

July 28, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – On his bobblehead day, Pete Fairbanks recorded his 20th save with a scoreless ninth while preserving a one-win lead. He allowed a two-out Jake Fraley single before a game-ending strikeout. Fairbanks threw nine pitches (88.9 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s converted all seven save chances in July and been scoreless over his last three appearances.

• Garrett Cleavinger retired the side and struck out one in the top of the eighth ahead of his team’s two-run rally at the bottom of the inning, resulting in his seventh win.
• Tyler Zuber logged two scoreless frames, working around a hit and a walk while striking out two.
• Manuel Rodrìguez tossed a scoreless fifth. 

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Colin Poche | Kevin Kelly

Tampa Bay Rays – Continuing its revamping of the roster for 2025 and beyond, the Rays traded Isaac Paredes in a four player deal to the Cubs and potentially a closer of the future in Hunter Bigge. He will be worth tracking, especially if the team moves Pete Fairbanks before Tuesday’s deadline passes. Stay tuned. 

Updated Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Colin Poche | Kevin Kelly

July 26, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Taking over in the top of the tenth, Manuel Rodríguez suffered his second loss. He allowed a go-ahead Stuart Fairchild RBI double and struck out one.

• Pete Fairbanks worked a scoreless ninth, keeping the game tied. He picked off the runner who reached on an error and recorded a strikeout on 17 pitches (12 strikes—70.6 Strike%) with three whiffs (17.6 Strike%).
• Jason Adam fired a clean eighth, striking out the side.
• Kevin Kelly stranded a runner while striking out his only batter in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

July 23, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Securing his 19th save, Pete Fairbanks retired the side, closing out a two-run win in Toronto. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s converted six straight save chances despite allowing a run in three outings.

• Jason Adam recorded his 19th hold, firing a clean eighth and striking out one. Kevin Kelly tossed a clean seventh for his 12th hold.
• Manuel Rodriguez was credited with his fourth hold, although he allowed two solo home runs in the sixth.
• Tyler Alexander collected his third win, logging three scoreless frames as the “bulk follower,” scattering three hits and striking out four.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

July 21, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Hanging on for his 18th save, Pete Fairbanks issued a one-out walk, followed by Juan Soto’s RBI double before bearing down. He retired Aaron Judge (flyout) and Austin Wells (strikeouts), preserving a two-run win in New York. He threw 23 pitches (13 strikes – 56.5 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s converted his last five save chances but has allowed a run in three.

• Edwin Uceta secured his first hold, retiring the side and striking out one in the eighth.
• Jason Adam allowed four hits, including a three-run home run by Aaron Judge, and struck out one in the seventh. This snapped his 12-game scoreless streak.
• Colin Poche notched his 13th hold with a scoreless sixth, striking out one. Manuel Rodríguez secured his third hold with a clean fifth, recording a strikeout.
• Garrett Cleavinger stranded two while retiring both batters in the fourth, one via strikeout, and collected his sixth win.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

July 17, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – According to Tankathon, the Rays face the toughest schedule in the second half, which does not help its current 1.9 percent playoff odds by Baseball-Reference. This may prompt the team to buy and sell ahead of the trade deadline, which puts closer Pete Fairbanks on the block. He’s converted 17 of 19 save chances this season, with diminished underlying metrics. If they retool for next year. Monitor their start in the second half closely. 

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

July 14, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Completing a combined shutout, Pete Fairbanks navigated around consecutive hits leading off the ninth with a José Ramírez pop-out, a Josh Naylor lineout, and a game-ending David Fry flyout for his 17th save. He threw 19 pitches (14 strikes – 73.7 Strike%) without a whiff. He ended the first half by converting his last seven save chances but allowed a run in two of his last four outings.

• Jason Adam fired a clean eighth and recorded two strikeouts on 12 pitches (75 Strike%) with four whiffs (33.3 SwStr%) for his 18th hold.
• Colin Poche notched his 12th hold, retiring the side in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

July 12, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Slamming the door on his fourth save, Jason Adam preserved a combined shutout while striking out the side against Cleveland. He threw 14 pitches (9 strikes – 64.3 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). Amidst an 11-game scoreless streak, Adam has recorded 14 strikeouts against three walks with a 0.42 WHIP over his last 12 innings.

• Colin Poche retired the side and recorded two strikeouts for his 11th hold.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

July 11, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Struggling with his command, Pete Fairbanks issued a lead-off walk in the ninth, a one-out Juan Soto walk, and induced an Aaron Judge pop-out before Ben Rice produced an RBI single. With two outs and two on, Fairbanks bore down and retired Gleyber Torres on a game-ending pop-out for his 16th save. He threw 28 pitches (15 strikes – 53.6 Strike%) with two whiffs.

• Manuel Rodríguez stranded two runners and issued a walk in one-third of the eighth for his second hold.
• Colin Poche gave up a hit and a walk while striking out one in one-third of the eighth, getting credit for his tenth hold.
• Jason Adam fired 1.1 clean frames and recorded two strikeouts while nailing down his 17th hold.
• Garrett Cleavinger retired the side in the sixth and struck out two for his eighth hold.
• Kevin Kelly stranded one of two runners and issued a walk, collecting his third win in two-thirds of the fifth.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

July 9, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Finishing a two-run win over the Yankees, Pete Fairbanks worked around a one-out single by DJ LeMahieu with a strikeout and a game-ending lineout by Juan Soto for his 15th save. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted five straight saves and been scoreless in five of his last six.

• Jason Adam fired a clean eighth and recorded a strikeout for his 16th hold.
• Colin Poche let his only inherited runner score while giving up a two-run home run by Ben Rice in the seventh. He recorded two outs and gave up a walk while striking out one, resulting in his ninth hold.
• Kevin Kelly was credited with his 11th hold despite allowing a hit and an earned run over his two-thirds innings of relief.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

July 6, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Entering with a one-run lead in the bottom of the seventh, Kevin Kelly suffered his first loss and second blown save. He allowed Marcus Semien’s go-ahead two-out, two-run home run. Kelly finished with three hits against and two earned runs while striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

July 4, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Wrapping up a crazy contest, Pete Fairbanks held on for his 14th save and a two-run win. He allowed Bobby Witt Jr.’s solo home run and recorded a strikeout in the bottom of the ninth. Fairbanks threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff. This snapped a four-game scoreless streak, but he’s converted nine of ten save chances over his last 14 appearances with 12 strikeouts against three walks.

• Kevin Kelly secured his tenth hold with a clean bottom of the eighth.
• Jason Adam notched his 15th hold, though he let one of two inherited runners score during his 1.2 scoreless frames.
• Garrett Cleavinger allowed a hit and a hit batter, resulting in an earned run over one-third of the sixth.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

July 2, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – During a non-save appearance, Pete Fairbanks finished a four-run win over the Royals with a clean bottom of the ninth. He threw 14 pitches (57.1 Strike%) without a whiff. He owns a modest four-game scoreless streak and converted his last three save chances.

• Jason Adam fired a clean eighth and recorded a strikeout for his 14th hold.
• Colin Poche allowed a hit while tossing a scoreless seventh and secured his eighth hold.
• Kevin Kelly gave up a solo home run (Bobby Witt Jr.) and struck out one in the sixth, getting credit for his ninth hold.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

June 28, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – With a two-run lead, Pete Fairbanks took over in the ninth against the Nationals’ 5-6-7 lineup pocket. He allowed a one-out walk but retired the next two batters and recorded his 13th save. He threw 22 pitches (13 strikes – 59.1 Strike%) and did not produce a whiff. He’s allowed a run in three of his 12 appearances this month and converted eight of nine save chances.

• Jason Adam fired a clean eighth, striking out two for his 13th hold.
• Kevin Kelly was awarded his eighth hold, giving up a hit and an unearned run while striking out one in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

June 26, 2024

(RP | TBR): Taking over in the sixth, Shawn Armstrong induced a groundout, issued a walk, and gave up Cal Raleigh’s go-ahead three-run home run. This put two earned runs on his ledger and let an inherited runner score. Armstrong suffered his second loss and second blown save as a result.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

June 25, 2024

(RP | TBR): Taking over in the top of the sixth, Garrett Cleavinger retired the side and recorded two strikeouts. He collected his fifth win after his teammates plated four runs in the bottom of the inning. He threw 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

June 24, 2024

(RP | TBR): Capping his team’s rally in the eighth inning, Pete Fairbanks fired a clean top of the ninth, locking down his 12th save and finishing off a one-run win over Seattle. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays -Nailing down his 12th save, Pete Fairbanks retired the side and recorded two strikeouts while preserving a one-run win over Seattle. He threw 10 pitches (90 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (20 SwStr%). After allowing a run in three of five outings, he’s bounced back with consecutive clean outings and converted both save opportunities. Phil Maton collected his first win, logging 1.1 clean frames and striking out two. Chris Devenski gave up two earned runs on a home run by Mitch Garver and issued three walks during two-thirds of the seventh. Colin Poche retired both batters faced via strikeout in the sixth.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

June 23, 2024

(RP | TBR): Capping his team’s rally in the eighth, Pete Fairbanks secured his 11th save, retiring the side and striking out one during a win in Pittsburgh. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Slamming the door on his 11th save, Pete Fairbanks fired a clean bottom of the ninth, preserving a two-run win and striking out one in Pittsburgh. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He’s converted six of seven save opportunities in June despite allowing a run in three of his last five appearances. Jason Adam issued two walks and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless eighth, securing his 12th hold. Kevin Kelly allowed a walk and retired two batters in the seventh. He was awarded his second as a result. Garrett Cleavinger logged 1.1 clean frames, keeping the game tied.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

June 21, 2024

(RP | TBR): Inheriting a bases-loaded situation in the bottom of the fourth, Colin Poche induced an inning-ending double play groundout. He also fired a clean fifth and collected his first win while retiring all four batters during a 1.2 inning-outing.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

June 20, 2024

(RP | TBR): Pressed into action with two runners on and no outs in the bottom of the ninth, Pete Fairbanks induced a groundout and recorded a strikeout. However, he could not close out the save, allowing a game-tying three-run home run. Fairbanks turned in a scoreless tenth, collecting his second win and suffering his second blown save during his two-inning outing. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – After warming for the ninth, Pete Fairbanks sat down when the lead reached four. Chris Devenski entered instead, allowing a lead-off home run, double, and a walk, forcing Fairbanks into the contest with two runners on. He induced a fielder’s choice groundout and recorded a strikeout before giving up a game-tying home run by Jose Miranda. He returned for the tenth and benefited from a double-play flyout, finishing with his second win and second blown save. He logged two innings, allowing two hits, one earned run, and struck out one. Kevin Kelly recorded his seventh hold, striking out both batters in the eighth and stranding two runners. Garrett Cleavinger allowed a hit and a walk in one-third of the eighth for his seventh hold.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

June 19, 2024

(RP | TBR): Preserving a one-run win in extra innings, Phil Maton fired a clean bottom of the tenth and recorded one strikeout for his second save.  

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Handed a one-run lead in the bottom of the tenth, Phil Maton retired the side and recorded a strikeout for his second save. He threw five pitches, all strikes, against the 3-4-5 Twins hitters. Jason Adam collected his fourth win, tossing a clean ninth and striking out one. Kevin Kelly gave up a hit during a scoreless eighth. Colin Poche allowed a hit and a walk while striking out two in a scoreless seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

June 18, 2024

(RP | TBR): With the score tied in the bottom of the ninth, Pete Fairbanks gave up a lead-off single, and a two-out comebacker hit his hand, forcing him from the contest. However, Phil Maton allowed a walk-off single, putting the earned run and loss on Fairbanks’ ledger. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Taking over a tied contest at the bottom of the ninth, Pete Fairbanks allowed Manuel Margot to lead off a single, then recorded two outs before allowing a single by Carlos Correa, a comebacker which ricocheted off of his hand, forcing him from the outing. He departed with two runners and two outs. Phil Maton entered and gave up a walk-off RBI single by Carlos Santana, handing Fairbanks his third loss of the season. Jason Adam tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit. Garrett Cleavinger retired the side and recorded two strikeouts in the seventh. Colin Poche turned in a clean sixth, striking out two. Shawn Armstrong suffered his first blown save, allowing two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one in the bottom of the fifth. 

After the game, it was reported by Tricia Whitaker the X-rays on Fairbanks were negative for a break. He has a right-thumb contusion. 

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

June 16, 2024

(RP | TBR): Despite allowing a lead-off walk, Pete Fairbanks worked a scoreless ninth while striking out two, recording his tenth save while closing out a win over Atlanta. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Bouncing back in a save situation, Pete Fairbanks secured his tenth, tossing a scoreless bottom of the ninth. He allowed a lead-off walk but recorded two strikeouts, including a game-ending one from Ozzie Albies. He’s converted his last six save opportunities and been scoreless in 10 of his last 12 games. Jason Adam gave up two hits, including a two-run home run by Austin Riley, and struck out two in the bottom of the eighth. He collected his third win and suffered his third blown save. Colin Poche retired the side in the seventh for his sixth hold. Zack Kelly stranded two runners while retiring his only batter via strikeout in the sixth. 

Updated Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

June 13, 2024

(RP | TBR): Preserving a one-run win, Pete Fairbanks worked around a one-out walk with a game-ending double play groundout for his ninth save. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Since Taylor Walls cannot be awarded the save, Pete Fairbanks will be credited with his ninth. He worked around a one-out walk with a game-ending double play groundout, featuring his shortstop laying out and taking away a hit from Nico Hoerner. Fairbanks threw 12 pitches (7 strikes—58.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s allowed one earned run since returning from the injured list with 13 strikeouts against three walks across 14 innings. Colin Poche retired the side in the eighth for his fifth hold.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

June 12, 2024

(RP | TBR): Entering in the seventh with a runner on, Garrett Cleavinger gave up a walk and a go-ahead three-run home run by Cody Bellinger, resulting in his first loss and first blown save.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

June 5, 2024

(RP | TBR): Turning in a clean bottom of the ninth, Pete Fairbanks recorded his eighth save and recorded one strikeout while preserving a two-run win in Miami. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Locking down his eighth save, Pete Fairbanks tossed a clean bottom of the ninth and struck out one while preserving a two-run win in Miami. He threw 11 pitches (10 strikes – 90.9 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He’s converted a save in his last three outings and allowed one unearned run since May 11 with 12 strikeouts against two walks over 12 innings (0.75 WHIP). Garrett Cleavinger worked around two hits and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless eighth, securing his sixth hold. Jason Adam notched his 11th save with a clean seventh, needing only five pitches. Richard Lovelady collected his second win, retiring the side in the sixth and striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

June 4, 2024

(RP | TBR): Entering a tough situation, Pete Fairbanks was summoned with the bases loaded and no outs in the bottom of the ninth. He responded by securing his seventh save, recording consecutive strikeouts and a game-ending grounder. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Inheriting a bases-loaded situation with no outs in the bottom of the ninth, Pete Fairbanks quelled the rally with consecutive strikeouts and a game-ending groundout for his seventh save. He threw 17 pitches (12 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s converted a save in his last two appearances and only allowed one unearned run since May 11 with an 11:2 K:BB over 11 innings. Phil Maton made the mess, allowing three hits without recording an out in the ninth.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

June 2, 2024

(RP | TBR): Preserving a one-run win, Pete Fairbanks notched his sixth save during a scoreless ninth, giving up a hit. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Capping a comeback rally, Pete Fairbanks recorded his sixth save, navigating around a two-out single by Ryan O’Hearn with a game-ending groundout. He threw 12 pitches (7 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) and did not produce a whiff. He’s been scoreless in 10 out of 11 outings since returning from the injured list, with nine strikeouts against two walks over 10 innings while converting three saves. Garrett Cleavinger escaped with a scoreless eighth despite allowing a hit, a walk, and a hit batter for his fifth hold. Shawn Armstrong garnered his second win, scattering two hits and striking out two in a scoreless seventh. 

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

May 30, 2024

(RP | TBR): Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Richard Lovelady collected his first win after tossing a scoreless top of the 12th, issuing a walk and striking out one. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Working around an intentional walk, Richard Lovelady pitched a scoreless top of the 12th and struck out one. He collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off in the bottom of the inning. Garrett Cleavinger tossed a scoreless 11th, striking out one. Pete Fairbanks allowed the “place” runner to score on an Abraham Toro single, a JJ Bledey double, and an intentional walk before inducing a double play and then recording a strikeout, preventing further damage. Phil Maton turned in a clean ninth, striking out one. Kevin Kelly stranded a runner in the seventh while retiring all four batters faced with two strikeouts.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

May 29, 2024

(RP | TBR): After working around a lead-off double, Pete Fairbanks earned his first win following a walk-off rally in the bottom of then ninth. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Benefiting from a walk-off in the bottom of the ninth, Pete Fairbanks collected his first win. He tossed a scoreless top of the inning and navigated around a lead-off double. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless through eight appearances in May with eight strikeouts against one walk while converting both save chances. Jason Adam suffered his second blown save, giving up a hit, an unearned run, and striking out one. Garrett Cleavinger fired a clean seventh, recording two strikeouts. Kevin Kelly gave up a hit and let one of two inherited runners score in the sixth.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

May 26, 2024

(RP | TBR): Navigating around two hits and a walk, Pete Fairbanks produced a scoreless ninth and secured his fifth save, closing out a three-run win over Kansas City. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Hanging on for his fifth save, Pete Fairbanks navigated around two hits and a walk for a scoreless ninth, preserving a three-run win. It did not come easily, though. He issued Freddy Fermin a one-out walk and gave up consecutive two-out singles by Garrett Hampson and Mikel Garcia before inducing a game-ending groundout by Bobby Witt Jr. Kevin Kelly recorded his fourth hold, allowing two hits during a scoreless eighth. Garrett Cleavinger collected his fourth win, giving up a hit and striking out one in a scoreless seventh. 

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

May 25, 2024

(RP | TBR): Suffering his third loss, Richard Lovelady allowed four hits and three runs (two earned) during 1.1 innings against Kansas City, including the decisive runs in the top of the 11th. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – During an extended outing, Richard Lovelady was tagged with his third loss, allowing four hits and three runs (two earned) over 1.1 innings, spanning the tenth and 11th against the Royals. Chris Devenski recorded the last out of the 11th. Kevin Kelly gave up an unearned run and two walks over two-thirds of the tenth. Pete Fairbanks worked a scoreless ninth, yielding a hit and striking out one. He’s been scoreless through his first six outings since returning from the injured list. Jason Adam turned in a scoreless eighth, issuing a walk. Garrett Cleavinger allowed a hit, an earned run, and two walks in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains (mostly linear): Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

May 22, 2024

(RP | TBR): Entering in the top of the fifth, Richard Lovelady suffered his second loss, allowing two hits and two earned runs while recording one strikeout among his two outs.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

May 21, 2024

(RP | TBR): Matched up against the Red Sox 9-1-2 lineup pocket, Jason Adam suffered his first loss. He allowed a lead-off single, a stolen base, issued a walk, and gave up another single, scoring the go-ahead run. After striking out Tyler O’Neill, Adam intentionally walked Rafael Devers. On a double steal, Devers stole second, and Jarren Duran stole home, hanging two earned runs on the Rays’ reliever’s final line. He threw 21 pitches (11 strikes – 52.3 Strike%).

Hierarchy remains: *Pete Fairbanks | *Jason Adam | *Garrett Cleavinger

*= closer-by-committee

May 18, 2024

(RP | TBR): Receiving the save chance with two left-handed hitters scheduled for the ninth, Garrett Cleavinger retired the side despite facing two right-handed pinch hitters and struck out one, preserving a one-run win in Toronto. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – With two left-handed hitters scheduled in the 8-9-1 lineup pocket in the ninth, the Rays summoned Garrett Cleavinger to protect a one-run lead, Even though he faced two right-handed pinch hitters, Cleavinger fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded a game-ending strikeout for his third save. He threw 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) and produced one whiff. Jason Adam notched his 10th hold, navigated around a hit and a hit-batter during a scoreless eighth, and struck out one. This extended his scoreless streak to seven games. Erasmo Ramírez collected his third win, retiring the side in the seventh ahead of his team’s rally in the top of the eighth. 

Hierarchy remains: *Pete Fairbanks | *Jason Adam | *Garrett Cleavinger

*= closer-by-committee

May 17, 2024

(RP | TBR): Firing a clean bottom of the ninth, Pete Fairbanks secured his fourth save and recorded one strikeout during a one-run win in Toronto. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Closing out a one-run win in Toronto and his fourth save, Pete Fairbanks fired a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out one. He threw six pitches (83.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff (16.7 SwStr%). Since returning from the injured list, he’s recorded four clean appearances with six strikeouts. Manuel Rodríguez was credited with his first hold, letting his only inherited runner score while giving up a hit during his two-thirds of the eighth inning.

Hierarchy remains: *Pete Fairbanks | *Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

*= closer-by-committee

May 16, 2024

(RP | TBR): Pressed into action because of a rules violation, Erasmo Ramírez recorded his first save after retiring his only batter faced, preserving a two-run win in Boston. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – With two outs, and two runners on, the Rays pitching coach tried making a mound visit without one remaining, causing the removal of Jason Adam from the save chance. Erasmo Ramírez stranded both inherited runners, inducing a game-ending groundout by Romy Gonzalez for his first save this season, and first since 2020. Adam gets credit for his ninth hold, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one on 23 pitches (15 strikes – 65.2 Strike%) while producing four whiffs (17.4 SwStr%). Manuel Rodríguez collected his first win, striking out one during a clean bottom of the eighth, ahead of his team’s rally. Garrett Cleavinger turned in a scoreless seventh, walking one and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: *Pete Fairbanks | *Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

*= closer-by-committee

May 15, 2024

(RP | TBR): Benefiting from a match-up-based approach in the late inning, Kevin Kelly recorded his first save, retiring the side in the ninth and striking out two in Boston. 

Analysis 

Tampa Bay Rays – Firing a clean bottom of the ninth, Kevin Kelly notched his first save and recorded two strikeouts, preserving a one-run win in Boston. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Pete Fairbanks made his first appearance on consecutive days, retiring the side in the eighth while striking out two for his first hold. This was a match-up-based approach with him facing the 4-5-6 Red Sox lineup lane. He threw seven pitches, all strikes, and generated four whiffs (57.1 SwStr%). Shawn Armstrong secured his third hold, tossing a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one. Phil Maton gave up three hits, including a solo home run (Rafael Devers), and struck out one in the sixth, resulting in his ninth hold.

Hierarchy remains: *Pete Fairbanks | *Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

*= closer-by-committee

May 14, 2024

(RP | TBR): During an extended outing in extra-innings, Manuel Rodríguez suffered his first loss, and blown save, on a walk-off RBI single in Boston. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Suffering his first loss, and his first blown save, Manuel Rodríguez issued an intentional walk in the bottom of the 12th and allowed a walk-off RBI single by Romy Gonzalez. Jason Adam retired the side in the bottom of the tenth on nine pitches. He’s been scoreless in 15 of his last 16 appearances. Pete Fairbanks fired a clean ninth, striking out two on nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) without a whiff. Garrett Cleavinger tossed a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit and striking out two. Phil Maton turned in a clean seventh, striking out one.

Adjusted Hierarchy: *Pete Fairbanks | *Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

*= closer-by-committee

May 13, 2024

(RP | TBR): Closing out a two-run win in Boston, Jason Adam issued a lead-off walk, then recorded three straight strikeouts, recording his third save. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Securing his third save, Jason Adam worked around a lead-off walk of Tyler O’Neill by striking out the next three batters, preserving a two-run margin. He threw 17 pitches (11 strikes – 64.7 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (29.4 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in eight of his last nine appearances. Garrett Cleavinger notched his fourth hold, tossing a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit, and striking out three. Kevin Kelly worked two scoreless frames, allowing a hit. 

Adjusted Hierarchy: *Pete Fairbanks | *Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

*= closer-by-committee

May 11, 2024

(RP | TBR): Returning from the injured list, Pete Fairbanks fired a clean top of the ninth, finishing a five-run win over the Yankees. It’s his first major league outing since April 17 and he threw 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) without getting a whiff.

Adjusted Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

May 9, 2024

(RP | TBR): Appearing in his second rehab game with Durham, Pete Fairbanks fired a clean top of the ninth during a tied game and recorded a strikeout. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and produced three whiffs. He’s logged two scoreless outings and should be activated for this weekend’s series against the Yankees. With this in mind, here’s the adjusted hierarchy: 

Anticipated Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Garrett Cleavinger

May 6, 2024

(RP | TBR): Recording a win for the second straight day, Erasmo Ramírez took over in the fifth, logging three scoreless frames while walking one and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: *Jason Adam | *Garrett Cleavinger | *Phil Maton

*= closer-by-committee

May 5, 2024

(RP | TBR): Benefiting from a walk-off rally in the bottom of the tenth, Erasmo Ramírez collected his first win. He allowed an inherited runner to score on a fielding error and walked one over his two-thirds of an inning. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Despite letting an inherited runner score in the top of the tenth, Erasmo Ramírez collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the frame. Jacob Lopez logged 1.1 innings, giving up an unearned run and two walks while striking out one. Shawn Armstrong tossed two scoreless frames, allowing a hit and two walks while striking out one. Garrett Cleavinger fired a clean sixth, striking out one on 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%). Kevin Kelly turned in two scoreless innings, yielding two hits and striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: *Jason Adam | *Garrett Cleavinger | *Phil Maton

*= closer-by-committee

May 4, 2024

(RP | TBR): Putting the bow on a two-run margin courtesy of a rally in the bottom of the eighth, Phil Maton recorded his first save of the season, and third of his career. 

Analysis 

Tampa Bay Rays – Securing his first save of the season, and third of his career, Phil Maton worked around a one-out walk with a pop-out and a game-ending groundout, preserving a two-run lead over the Mets. He threw 19 pitches (10 strikes – 52.6 Strike%) without a whiff. Jason Adam collected his second win, working a scoreless eighth ahead of a rally in the bottom of the inning. He matched up against the top of the lineup and navigated around two walks, one intentional (Pete Alonso). Garrett Cleavinger tossed a scoreless seventh, walking one and striking out three on 19 pitches (11 strikes – 57.9 Strike%) with two whiffs.

Hierarchy remains: *Jason Adam | *Garrett Cleavinger | *Phil Maton

*= closer-by-committee

May 2, 2024

(RP | TBR): Hanging on for his second save, Jason Adam allowed a solo home run and a double, but finished a two-run win with a game-ending strikeout. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Despite allowing a one-out home run (Brett Baty) and a two-out double, Jason Adam secured his second save of the season with a game-ending strikeout of Starling Marte. He threw 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%) while giving up two hits in his outing. Kevin Kelly retired the side in the eighth for his second hold. Phil Maton notched his eighth hold, firing a clean seventh and striking out one. Shawn Armstrong collected his first win, logging 1.1 scoreless frames, though he let his only inherited runner score, scattering two hits and striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: *Jason Adam | *Garrett Cleavinger | Phil Maton

*= closer-by-committee

April 29, 2024

(RP | TBR): Recording his first save of the season, Jason Adam navigated around a hit, a walk, and a hit-batter for a scoreless ninth while striking out two, preserving a 1-0 win in Milwaukee. 

Analysis

Tampa Bay Rays – Hanging on for his first save of the year, Jason Adam preserved a 1-0 win in Milwaukee while walking a highwire act. His outing began with a lead-off double, a lineout, and a walk. He recorded a strikeout, with an odd interference call preventing a run from scoring. After, with two outs, Adam hit Rhys Hoskins with a pitch before a game-ending strikeout of Blake Perkins. He threw 19 pitches (11 strikes – 57.9 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (31.6 SwStr%) during an effectively wild appearance. Kevin Kelly fired a clean eighth, striking out two for his first hold. Shawn Armstrong notched his second hold, walking one and striking out one during a scoreless seventh.

Hierarchy remains: *Jason Adam | *Garrett Cleavinger | Phil Maton

*= closer-by-committee

April 27, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Suffering his second loss, and second blown save, Phil Maton served up a walk-off, two-run home run by Andrew Benintendi in the bottom of the 11th, putting a hit and two runs (one earned) on his ledger over one-third of an inning. Jason Adam tossed a scoreless ninth, walking one and striking out one on 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) with two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). Kevin Kelly logged two clean frames, striking out three. Garrett Cleavinger retired his only batter faced via strikeout, stranding a runner in the sixth. Shawn Armstrong worked 1.1 scoreless, giving up a hit and a walk with two strikeouts, but let both inherited runners score in the fifth.

Adjusted hierarchy: *Jason Adam | *Garrett Cleavinger | Phil Maton

*= closer-by-committee

April 26, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Prior to its game against the White Sox, the team placed Colin Poche (back) on the 15-day injured list per Marc Topkin on “X”. 

Adjusted hierarchy: *Jason Adam | *Garrett Cleavinger | Phil Maton

*= closer-by-committee

April 24, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Receiving the ninth and matched up with the 7-8-9 lineup pocket, Garrett Cleavinger recorded his second save, walking one and striking out one during a scoreless ninth. He threw 18 pitches (Strike%) and induced one whiff. This marks his second straight appearance with a save. Jason Adam did the heavy lifting, firing two clean frames and striking out two against the 1-through-6 hitters for Detroit on 30 pitches (60 Strike%) with three whiffs for his seventh hold. Chris Devenski collected his first win while suffering his second blown save, giving up three hits and two earned runs while striking out one.

Adjusting the hierarchy with this usage pattern. Adam will be the HLR (highest-leveraged reliever), leaving ancillary saves for Poche and Cleavinger, but not sure a clear cut closer will emerge in Pete Fairbank’s absence. 

Updated Hierarchy: *Jason Adam | *Colin Poche | *Garrett Cleavinger

*= closer-by-committee

April 23, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Taking over in the seventh, Phil Maton notched his seventh hold with a clean outing, striking out one. Colin Poche suffered his first loss and first blown save, serving up two home runs resulting in three earned runs, ceding the lead in the top of the eighth. Kevin Kelly worked a clean ninth, striking out one.

Although this was not an ideal outcome for the leverage ladder, this was leading toward a Jason Adam save chance in the ninth, confirming him as the preferred option with Pete Fairbanks on the injured list. 

Hierarchy remains: *Jason Adam | *Colin Poche | Phil Maton

*= closer-by-committee

April 22, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – A hierarchy change with news of Pete Fairbanks landing on the 15-day injured list with a nerve related issue (Raynaud’s syndrome). 

Updated hierarchy: *Jason Adam | *Colin Poche | Phil Maton

*= closer-by-committee

April 20, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – With a left-handed leaning lineup pocket in the bottom of the tenth, Garrett Cleavinger took over with a two-run lead, and closed out his first career save, retiring the side in order and recording a strikeout. After the game it was reported Pete Fairbanks had a stomach issue and was not at the stadium. Jason Adam collected his first win, firing a clean bottom of the ninth and striking out one versus the Yankees’ 2-3-4 hitters. He threw 11 pitches (54.5 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%). Phil Maton worked a scoreless eighth, walking one and striking out one. Colin Poche tossed a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit.

Hierarchy remains (for now): Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

April 18, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Recording his second save of the season, Colin Poche navigated around a lead-off single by Miguel Sanó and a two-out single by Luis Rengifo with a game-ending fielder’s choice forceout. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). He also registered a strikeout in this outing and owns a 1.50 WHIP with six strikeouts versus three walks through 7.1 innings. Phil Maton secured his MLB-leading eighth hold, giving up a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth. Garrett Cleavinger fired a clean seventh, striking out two on 12 pitches (75 Strike%) with one whiff.

Hierarchy remains (for now): Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

April 17, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Provided a one-run lead, Pete Fairbanks could not secure the win, suffering his second loss and first blown save of the season. It started with a one-out single by Nolan Schanuel, replaced by pinch-runner Jo Adell, then a walk, putting two runners on. Adell stole third on a spiked slider, then Neto stole second on the next pitch, placing two runners in scoring position. Fairbanks allowed an RBI single by Anthony Rendon, with a runner thrown out at home, intentionally walked Mike Trout, and then gave up the go-ahead RBI single by Taylor Ward. He threw 28 pitches (60.7 Strike%) and produced one whiff. He owns a 2.29 WHIP with 10 strikeouts against eight walks through his first seven innings. Kevin Kelly tossed a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit. Shawn Armstrong fired a clean seventh, striking out one.

Hierarchy remains (for now): Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

April 15, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Garrett Cleavinger collected his third win despite giving up a hit, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out two in the top of the 13th. Phil Maton bounced back from a rough outing with a clean 12th. Jason Adam allowed an unearned run on a sacrifice fly after a hit batter and a walk loaded the bases in the 11th. Pete Fairbanks let the go-ahead run score on a wild pitch in the top of the 10th and recorded two strikeouts throwing 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) with two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). Colin Poche turned in a clean ninth. Shawn Armstrong worked a clean eighth, striking out one. Chris Devenski fired a clean seventh. 

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

April 12, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Navigating around a lead-off walk, Pete Fairbanks retired the next three batters on a groundout and two shallow fly-outs, preserving a one-run while converting his third save. He threw 18 pitches (50 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He owns an 8:6 K:BB with a 2.20 WHIP over his first five innings. Jason Adam retired the side in order while securing his fifth hold. Colin Poche notched his fourth hold, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out two in a scoreless seventh. Phil Maton recorded a strikeout against his only batter in the sixth for his fifth hold. Garrett Cleavinger collected his second win, logging 1.2 scoreless frames, allowing a hit and two walks while striking out three.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

April 10, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Securing his second save, Pete Fairbanks tossed a scoreless bottom of the ninth, allowing a two-out single (Luis Rengifo) and recording three strikeouts. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%). This represents his best outing of the season. Jason Adam worked a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and striking out one for his fourth hold. Phil Maton retired the side in order in the seventh, recording a strikeout, resulting in his fourth hold. Kevin Kelly collected his first win, logging 1.2 innings, serving up a solo home run, and striking out three.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

April 9, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Following up his rough outing in Colorado, Pete Fairbanks recorded his first save of the season, but it was not a clean one. He allowed a lead-off single by Aaron Hicks, and after retiring the next two batters, Hicks moved to second on defensive indifference and scored on an RBi single by Luis Rengifo. After issuing a walk, Fairbanks ended the game on a strikeout but finished with two hits, an earned run, and a walk with two strikeouts on his ledger. He threw 27 pitches (16 strikes – 59.3 Strike%) without a whiff. Jason Adam notched his third hold, tossing a scoreless eighth and allowing a hit. Colin Poche secured his third hold, walking one in a scoreless seventh. Phil Maton turned in a scoreless sixth, walking one and striking out one for his third hold.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

April 7, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Avoiding its closer after his comments about Coors, the Rays called upon Shawn Armstrong in the eighth. He worked two innings, giving up a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one for his first save. He issued a walk leading off the ninth which resulted in the run but limited any further damage. He threw 32 pitches (21 strikes – 65.6 Strike%) without a whiff. Phil Maton got credit for his second hold, giving up two hits, an earned run, and two walks while striking out one in an eventful one-third of the seventh. Garrett Cleavinger secured his first hold, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out two in two-thirds of the seventh. 

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

April 6, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Matched up with the Rockies’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket, Colin Poche secured his first save, retiring the side in order and striking out one. He threw 10 pitches (50 Strike%) without a whiff. Jason Adam fired a clean eighth, striking out one for his first hold, throwing 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and inducing two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%). Garrett Cleavinger collected his first win, retiring his only batter faced in the seventh and stranding a runner. Chris Devenski logged 2.1 innings, giving up three hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

April 5, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – In a wild finish at Coors Field, Pete Fairbanks suffered his first loss after walking all three batters he faced, resulting in three earned runs against his ledger. He threw 17 pitches (29.4 Strike%) without getting a whiff. One wonders if the cold weather played a part with his Raynaud’s syndrome affecting his command issues. Jason Adam took over the bases-loaded situation, striking out his first batter faced before serving up a walk-off grand slam by Ryan McMahon, resulting in his first blown save. Colin Poche was tagged with his first blown save in the sixth, allowing three hits, including a two-run home run by Ezequiel Tovar. 

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

April 2, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – During a non-save appearance, Pete Fairbanks recorded two quick outs, then allowed a single by Jared Walsh who advanced on defensive indifference, and scored on a Jonah Heim single. Fairbanks finished his outing with an earned run on two hits and a walk while striking out one. He threw 23 pitches (14 strikes – 60.9 Strike%) with three whiffs (13 SwStr%). Jason Adam fired a clean eighth, striking out one. Colin Poche notched his second hold, retiring both batters faced and striking out one.

March 25, 2025

Tampa Bay Rays – Collecting his second win this spring, Pete Fairbanks fired a clean eighth, striking out one on 15 pitches (60 Strike%) with three whiffs (20 SwStr%). He’s made six appearances and posted a 0.88 WHIP with eight strikeouts versus two walks over 5.2 innings. Colin Poche only retired one batter and walked two in the seventh. Jason Adam worked a scoreless sixth, giving up a hit and striking out three.

March 21, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Tuning up for Opening Day, Pete Fairbanks turned in a crisp outing, retiring both batters faced in the bottom of the eighth via strikeout, and collected his first spring win as a result. He threw seven pitches (85.7 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). Through five spring appearances, he owns a 1.07 WHIP with seven strikeouts against two walks over 4.2 innings. Phil Maton worked a scoreless combined inning, scattering two hits and striking out two. Jason Adam suffered his first blown save, allowing five hits, four runs (one earned), and striking out one.

March 19 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Pete Fairbanks worked a scoreless bottom of the eighth, yielding a hit and striking out two. He’s made four appearances this spring, posting a 1.25 WHIP with five strikeouts versus two walks over four innings.

March 11, 2024

Tampa Bay Rays – Two high-leverage relievers made their spring debuts on Monday (March 11), including the team’s “closer“, Pete Fairbanks. He fired a clean top of the ninth, recording two strikeouts. Colin Poche also made his first spring appearance, with a clean eighth, striking out two. Dawn Klemish covered their outings for MLB.com in her game recap, noting Fairbanks hit 98 m.p.h. with his four-seam fastball. 

September 24, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Jason Adam was returned to injured list Saturday morning and will miss the rest of the regular season. Tampa Bay has locked up a playoff spot so they may be resting key parts of their bullpen anyway, but we expect Andrew Kittridge to see some more late inning looks without Adam.

Updated hierarchy: Fairbanks | Poche | Kittridge.

September 21, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Jason Adam was reinstated from the injured list Thursday morning and should be thrown right back into the Rays’ late-inning mix.

Updated hierarchy: Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.

September 14, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Just when we thought the Rays had foresaken their eternal quest to spread out saves, Robert Stephenson earned his first of the season on Wednesday. We’ll keep an eye on it.

Updated hierarchy: Fairbanks | Poche | Stephenson.

September 4, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays – With Jason Adam hitting the IL over the weekend, look for Robert Stephenson — who picked up a hold on Sunday — to get more late inning chances.

Updated hierarchy: Fairbanks | Poche | Stephenson.

August 28, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays – The Vulture Save Watch projected a day off Sunday for Pete Fairbanks, but instead of turning to Colin Poche, manager Kevin Cash went with Jason Adam for the third time in four games. Adam nailed down his 12^th save of the season.

Hierarchy remains: Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.

August 19, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays – Andrew Kittridge had not pitched in the majors since June 7, 2022, when he was the nominal leader of the volatile Tampa Bay Rays committee. After a 15 month recovery from Tommy John surgery, and a long minor league rehab stint he was expected to ease his way back into major league shape. Instead, when the Rays scored 3 in the top of the 10th, he was called on to close the door. He threw 15 pitches, 12 for strikes and secured his first save on the season. It will take more than that to crack the hierarchy, but Kittredge was one of Tampa Bay’s best relievers in 2022 and has a chance to return to high leverage work. 

Hierarchy remains: Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.

August 15, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays – Everyone remembers their MLB debut. And everyone remembers the first time they were mentioned on Closer Monkey. But while it almost never happens simultaneously, Jacob Lopez managed the feat, making his big-league debut with a 3-inning save in a 10-2 Rays victory. Lopez allowed one earned run and struck out two, so he starts his career with a tidy 3.00 ERA. Congrats, Jacob! Incidentally, this is also the first non-Fairbanks save of the second half for Tampa, so we’ll also take this opportunity to remove the asterisk.

Updated hierarchy: Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.

July 16, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Pete Fairbanks pitched a scoreless 9th inning for his 10th save of the season.  Don’t look now, but since returning from the IL in the middle of June, Pete Fairbanks has recorded all five Rays’ saves.  We wouldn’t dare pull the committee tag for the Rays given their history but if this was any other team, the asterisk would be gone.  We will see if the Closer Monkey Rays curse continues at the mere mention of removing the asterisk or if Fairbanks can keep this going. 

Hierarchy remains: *Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.
*=closer-by-committee

June 16, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Pete Fairbanks returned from the IL Thursday and slid right into ninth-inning duty, retiring the side on 10 pitches to earn his seventh save. Jason Adam pitched the eighth inning. We’ll move Fairbanks to the front of this committee as a result.

Updated hierarchy: *Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.
*=closer-by-committee

June 4, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Jason Adam pitched a scoreless 9th inning for his 8th save of the season.  Adam is the reliever most likely to record saves while Pete Fairbanks is out but it’s still the Rays so don’t be surprised when somebody else gets a save.

Hierarchy remains: *Adam | Poche | Kelly.
*=closer-by-committee

June 1, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays used Colin Poche in the seventh and Jason Adam in the eighth, leaving Kevin Kelly to go for the save in the ninth. But when Kelly loaded the bases on a walk, hit by pitch, and error, it was Jalen Beeks who wound up coming in — and he earned the save with a clutch strikeout and flyout.

Hierarchy remains: *Adam | Poche | Kelly.
*=closer-by-committee

May 29, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Pete Fairbanks was placed on the injured list with left hip inflammation. Jason Adam should be the primary source of saves while Fairbanks is out but it’s the Rays so guys like Colin Poche and Kevin Kelly could also be in the mix. 

Updated hierarchy: *Adam | Poche | Kelly.
*=closer-by-committee

May 29, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays – Pete Fairbanks’ hip “locked up” during his warmup on Sunday and he limped to the dugout for further tests. An IL stint isn’t a certainty, but if he needs to miss some time, watch this space for an alert. In his absence, Jason Adam picked up a 2-inning save and will be the committee leader if Fairbanks needs to miss time.

Hierarchy remains: *Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

May 26, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Up 6-1 in the ninth inning Thursday, the Rays went with Jake Diekman to finish things off, but he ran into trouble, loading the bases with one out to give way to Colin Poche, who allowed a walk and a sacrifice fly before closing things out for his first save. Pete Fairbanks had gone in two of three, while Jason Adam played the day before (22 pitches). 

Hierarchy remains: *Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

May 21, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Kevin Kelley started the 9th inning with the Rays up 8-4 but after a pair of walks brought the tying run to the on-deck circle, Jason Adam came on to record the final two outs and pick up his 6th save of the season. 

Hierarchy remains: *Fairbanks| Adam | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

May 20, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — With a 1 run lead the Rays went with Jason Adam in the 8th inning and Pete Fairbanks in the 9th. Both got the job done to convert the Hold/Save combo. Adam arguably had the tougher assignment, as he faced the top of the order, and this being the Rays it’s doubtful anyone would really run away with the job, but this probably is Tampa’s preferred order of things when everyone is available. We’ll swap Fairbanks back to the top of the hierarchy, but its very much a 2 man show in Tampa Bay.

Updated Hierarchy: *Fairbanks| Adam | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

May 18, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Jason Adam’s position at the head of the Tampa committee was already iffy with the return of Pete Fairbanks, but blowing a three-run save to the Mets Wednesday night should really have him looking over his shoulder. The concern with Fairbanks, though, remains whether he can pitch effectively in cold weather — and giving up his own three-run homer in the tenth doesn’t exactly clear up those concerns. The walk-off blast ended Fairbanks’s 30-inning scoreless streak.

Hierarchy remains: *Adam | Fairbanks | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

May 16, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays – Pete Fairbanks is back from the IL, and while the Rays will likely be a bit cautious with his usage at the outset, we expect him to reclaim a prominent position in the Tampa hierarchy.

Updated hierarchy: *Adam | Fairbanks | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

May 13, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Jason Adam blew a save last night but the real news for Tampa is that Pete Fairbanks was sent on a rehab assignment. Fairbanks was having an excellent season before hitting the IL, so when he is back expect him to jump right back into the high leverage spots. 

Hierarchy remains: *Adam | Poche | Kelly.
*=closer-by-committee

May 6, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — The last time we removed an asterisk from the Tampa Bay Rays was April 19, 2021. Diego Castillo had just picked up the first 4 saves of the season. He spent 2 glorious weeks riding high as the first pitcher in 2 years to have sole possession of the Rays closer job before hitting the IL … on May 5, 2021. Nice try baseball gods, we learned our lesson last time. The asterisk stays despite Jason Adam recording 3 saves in the past 4 days.

Hierarchy remains: *Adam | Poche | Kelly.
*=closer-by-committee

May 5, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Jason Adam notched his second save in three days on Thursday. He allowed a hit and a walk and two unearned runs but also struck out the side. With Pete Fairbanks on the IL, Adam should see the bulk of the chances moving forward.

Hierarchy remains: *Adam | Poche | Kelly.
*=closer-by-committee

May 4, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — When he woke up on Wednesday, 35-year-old Chase Anderson was on Cincinnati’s AAA team, a starting pitcher whose last outing included two home runs, 10 baserunners, four runs allowed in three innings, and an eventual 18-16 loss. So it only makes sense that Anderson’s next three innings were (a) scoreless, (b) in the Rays organization, (c) in the majors, and (d) his first career save in 200 games. You can’t make this stuff up, but if you did, you’d at least know which team to make it up for. As we alerted you yesterday, Pete Fairbanks hit the IL with forearm inflammation, and Jason Adam is best-positioned to close.

Updated hierarchy: *Adam | Poche | Kelly.
*=closer-by-committee

May 3, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Pete Fairbanks was placed on the injured list with right forearm inflammation. Expect Jason Adam to lead the team in save chances, though Colin Poche and Kevin Kelly also could see some action in the ninth. 

Updated hierarchy: *Adam | Poche | Kelly.
*=closer-by-committee

May 3, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Despite being back in Tampa, Pete Fairbanks remained unavailable on Tuesday, which left the save chance to Jason Adam, who preserved the win.

Hierarchy remains: *Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.
*=closer-by-committee

April 29, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — After Pete Fairbanks was removed in the middle of the 9th inning, rookie Kevin Kelly came in with two men on and two outs in a 1 run game. Kelly got a popout to end the threat, and secured the first save of his career. After the game, Fairbanks said he was removed due to Reynaud’s Syndrome, which affected him last year in the playoffs and prevents circulation form getting to his fingers. Fairbanks seemed optimistic that he could pitch through it., but this may limit his opportunities in colder weather. As it seems he will avoid the IL, we will put him back into the hierarchy, but with Jason Adam and Colin Poche both pitching well, the Rays will have options going forward.   

Updated hierarchy: *Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.
*=closer-by-committee

April 28, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Pete Fairbanks was removed from tonight’s game with an apparent finger injury. It may be just a blister or possibly a recurrence of Reynaud’s Syndrome which affected him last year. While this may turn out to be a temporary bump, anytime a closer leaves in the middle of a save op, it isn’t good news. Jason Adam slides to the top of the committee and we will monitor for updates. 

Hierarchy remains: *Adam | Poche | Kelly.
*=closer-by-committee

April 14, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays continued their run of dominance Thursday, winning their 13^th straight game to start the season, and they can thank the bullpen for this one after starter Jeffrey Springs left the game with an injury after just 3 IP. Braden Bristo, who was just called up prior to the game, wrapped up the Rays sweep with three shutout innings to close a 9-3 final to get the save. Sure, Rays gonna Rays, but Bristo will not normally factor into the late-inning plans.

Hierarchy remains: *Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.
*=closer-by-committee

March 13, 2023
Tampa Bay Rays — Rays gonna Rays, right? Maybe, but that’s not to say the back end of the bullpen isn’t talented. Pete Fairbanks likely gets the first crack at things, as he looked dynamite after returning from injury last season (1.13 ERA, 0.67 WHIP, 8 saves). Jason Adam and Colin Poche should be in the mix for saves again, but Fairbanks has a shot to “run away with the job” as much as any Rays reliever could do something like that.

Starting 2023 hierarchy: *Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.
*=closer-by-committee
Holds candidates: Adam, Poche, Jalen Beeks, Ryan Thompson, Garret Cleavinger.

September 28, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Calvin Faucher was the eighth Rays pitcher out of the bullpen on Tuesday and closed out the 11th inning to secure his first MLB save. Faucher became the 11th different Tampa reliever to earn a save this season, two off last year’s record-setting number of 13 relievers with a save.

Hierarchy remains: *Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

September 19, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – With four of the last five saves, including Sunday’s, Pete Fairbanks is the closest thing that the Rays have had to a full-time closer this session. The righty started his after returning from injury in July, whereupon he gave up three runs across his first two outings, but since then, he’s been nothing short of the best reliever in baseball, having allowed no runs in the subsequent 19 innings while collecting 30 Ks against only 2 BBs.

Hierarchy remains: *Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

September 14, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Committee leader Pete Fairbanks collected his seventh save of the season in game one of yesterday’s doubleheader in Toronto, recording the final four outs of the contest. Fairbanks now has three of the Rays’ last four saves and has not allowed a run since July 22, a stretch of 18 consecutive scoreless innings.

Hierarchy remains: *Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

Previous updates:

September 10, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays tried really hard to get their 11th different reliever a save this year. In this case it would’ve been JT Chargois, but after he gave up a solo homer and brought the tying run to the plate he was pulled in favor of Shawn Armstrong. Armstrong got Glyber Torres to fly out to the warning track, but that was good enough for his 2nd save on the year. With the Rays anything is possible, but Chargois isn’t usually in the late innings. 

Updated hierarchy: *Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

September 6, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Pete Fairbanks, who by some measures has been the best reliever in baseball this year (albeit in a small sample size given his injuries), picked up his 5th save of the season on Monday. He’s now collected three of the past six Rays saves, so we’ll nudge him past Jason Adam to the top of this committee.

Updated hierarchy: *Fairbanks | Adam | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

September 4, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — Pete Fairbanks pitched a perfect 8th inning and Jason Adam picked up his 8th save despite giving up Aaron Judge’s 52nd home run of the season.  The Rays are still a committee but it’s not as wide open as it has been in year’s past with Adam and Fairbanks seeing the majority of the save chances.

Hierarchy remains: *Adam | Fairbanks | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

September 3, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — JP Feyereisen suffered a setback while throwing for AAA Durham last night, re-aggravating the shoulder injury that sent him to the IL. Manager Kevin Cash said that it is highly unlikely he pitches again this year. If you were stashing Feyereisen for a possible late season resurgence it seems safe to drop him now.

Hierarchy remains: *Adam | Fairbanks | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

September 1, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — Pete Fairbanks, Colin Poche, and Jason Adam got Tampa to extra innings, where the save opportunity fell to Jalen Beeks. Classic Rays.

Hierarchy remains: *Adam | Fairbanks | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

August 23, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Jason Adam got the middle of the Angels’ order in the 8th inning, leaving the 9th to Shawn Armstrong, who converted for his first save of the season. He’s the 10th Tampa Bay reliever to record a save this season, in case you were wondering after reading that Yankees update.

Hierarchy remains: *Adam | Fairbanks | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

August 22, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Pete Fairbanks got his second save in as many days, and he’s now collected all four of saves since July 27. Colin Poche only has one save in that span, so Fairbanks climbs up to first in line.

Updated hierarchy: *Adam | Fairbanks | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

August 21, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Jason Adam pitched a perfect 8th inning and Pete Fairbanks pitched a perfect 9th for his 3rd save of the season.  The Rays are at least sticking to our hierarchy as their last eight saves have come from Adam, Fairbanks, or Colin Poche but it’s hard to know which one they will go with on any given night.

Hierarchy remains: *Adam | Poche | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

August 17, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Jason Adam got the last out of 8th and stuck around for the 9th to earn his 7th save on the year. He did so without giving up any baserunners, and so he holds onto the coveted WHIP lead amongst qualifying pitchers for the moment. This also is the second Rays save in a row for Adam and he has 3 of the last 4, which is enough to move him to the top of the Rays hierarchy. No one should be happier than WHIP king challenger Jacob deGrom, as an ascent to the top of the Rays Closer Monkey hierarchy has historically led to a swift collapse. Perhaps Adam is the exception. 

Hierarchy remains: *Adam | Poche | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

August 15, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Jason Adam got the 2-out save on Sunday after Drew Rasmussen’s perfect game (and no hitter and shutout) bid ended in the 9th. In “news that only stat nerds care about,” Adam’s outing helped him maintain the WHIP lead (0.64) among pitchers with at least 30 innings, though a recent Syracuse callup named Jacob deGrom (0.42 WHIP in 16.2 IP) could potentially surpass him if he keeps this up across a few more starts.

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Adam | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

August 4, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — It was Jason Adam’s turn to grab a save for Tampa, following up Pete Fairbanks, who pitched a clean eighth. Colin Poche has had the last four days off.

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Adam | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

July 31, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — Pete Fairbanks struck out a paid in a scoreless 9th inning to pick up his second save of the season and second save in his last two appearances.  Jason Adam and Colin Poche each pitched a scoreless inning ahead of Fairbanks.  This is the Rays we are talking about so it’s nearly impossible to predict the next save but two saves in a row at least gets you on the hierarchy.

Updated hierarchy: *Poche | Adam | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

July 28, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — In a true shocker, the Rays actually used their hierarchy in order in the seventh, eighth, and ninth innings on Wednesday. Colin Poche gave up the game-tying run, though, which opened the door for Pete Fairbanks to pick up his first save of 2022. 

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Adam | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

July 18, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — Pete Fairbanks has made his return for Tampa, appearing in his first game of 2022 on Sunday. He entered in the eighth inning with a three-run lead against the Orioles and allowed a run. Jason Adam took the ball in the ninth and converted for his fourth save. Fairbanks was a regular in the Rays hierarchy last year and could poke his way through this crowded field this year, for sure. But for now, this wild committee will stay as is, as we head into the break.

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Adam | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

July 16, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — While the Rays didn’t get any closer to breaking their own number-of-relievers-to-get-a-save-in-a-single-season record, they did give the 9th inning to Brooks Raley after Colin Poche gave up 2 runs in the 8th. Raley converted for his 6th save of the year. The last 4 days have seen 4 saves by 3 different relievers, with Raley getting 2 of them. This is the Rays we know and love. 

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Adam | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

July 15, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — Jalen Beeks on Thursday became the eighth different Ray to record a save this season after Brooks Raley and Jason Adam pitched earlier in the game (Perhaps the record of 14 different save-getters is not necessarily safe?). Colin Poche had gone in three of five entering Thursday, so perhaps he was not available.

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Adam | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

July 14, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — Rays saves leader Colin Poche picked up his first save in three weeks on Wednesday. Although the Rays have been up to their usual committee tricks this season, it’s been six weeks since one of their pitchers got his first save. The record of 14 looks safe.

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Adam | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

July 13, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – With the Rays leading Boston, 3-2, Tampa’s bullpen wheel landed on Brooks Raley for the ninth inning and he struck out two en route to earning his fifth save of the season.

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Adam | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

July 6, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – After presumably reading our update wondering where Colin Poche was, Kevin Cash deployed Poche in the eighth inning of Tuesday’s win over the Red Sox. Poche walked one and struck out two to help the Rays protect an 8-4 victory.

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Adam | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

July 5, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Colin Poche, ostensibly the leader of the Rays committee, hasn’t pitched in nearly two weeks. No word on whether his absence is injury-related, but we’ll monitor this situation and will alert if an IL stint is needed.

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Adam | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

July 4, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – After Shawn Armstrong got into some trouble in the 9th inning, Jason Adam nailed down the game’s final two outs for his third save of the season.

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Adam | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

June 27, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Brooks Raley picked up his 4th save of the season with a clean 9th, after a scoreless 8th from Jason Adam. It’s his first save since May 11 so he’s probably still in about the right place on this hierarchy, but it’s the Rays so, you know, whatever.

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Adam | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

June 22, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Colin Poche gave up a two-run homer but still managed to pick up his fifth save of the season on Tuesday, with Jason Adam getting the final two outs of the eighth in relief of Brooks Raley, which is exactly how we have them ordered on our hierarchy. The Rays have only recorded four saves this month, with Poche earning three of them, including each of the last two.

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Adam | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

June 19, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Colin Poche pitched a perfect 9th inning for his 4th save of the season.  Poche has solid numbers (1.27 ERA and 0.84 WHIP) and all four of his saves have come in the past three and half weeks.  This is the Rays so it’s hard to read too much into anything happening in their bullpen but Poche certainly seems like the best guy to own for saves at this point.

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Adam | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

June 10, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Jason Adam picked up the save after 8 stellar innings from starter Shane McClanahan. Adam, who now has a 0.72 ERA on the year, last earned a save on May 13, so we won’t bump Colin Poche (3 saves since May 25) off the top spot yet, but Adam has had an admirable season to this point.

Updated hierarchy: *Poche | Adam | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

June 9, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Just a few days after being activated, Andrew Kittredge is headed back to the IL, and this time, he’ll be out for a while. With JP Feyereisen also injured, the Rays late-inning gameplan will be even more patchwork than usual; we’ll put Colin Poche at the top for now.

Updated hierarchy: *Poche | Raley | Adam.
* = closer-by-committee

June 7, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays got committee leader Andrew Kittredge back over the weekend, so you can get him back in your lineups and count on him getting at least one or two of the next nine Tampa save chances.

Updated hierarchy: *Kittredge | Poche | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

June 4, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — The day after running running his scoreless appearance streak to 22 games, J.P. Feyereisen was placed on the IL with a right shoulder impingement. Feyereisen has been flawless on the season, maintaining a 0.00 ERA through 24.1 innings, and even snagging a pair of starts along the way, so hopefully he will be back soon. In better news, Colin Poche got his 3rd save of the season last night, coming on for the last out with the bases loaded and striking out Luis Robert. This being Tampa, anybody is in line for saves, but Jason Adam, who picked up a hold on Thursday, looks ready to handle some late inning duties. 

Updated Hierarchy: *Poche | Raley | Adam
* = closer-by-committee

June 3, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — Thursday was a new day, so the Rays had a different save-getter, obviously. Ryan Thompson did the honors Thursday for his third save this year, making him the fourth Rays’ reliever to earn a save since last Saturday. Brooks Raley got the last two outs of the seventh and J.P. Feyereisen got the final out of the eighth in this one.

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Feyereisen | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

June 2, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — Matt Wisler got the extra-innings save for Tampa on Wednesday, the seventh player to pick one up in only 50 games. They’re on pace to crush the record (14)!

Hierarchy remains: *Poche | Feyereisen | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

May 30, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – The best reliever in the Tampa bullpen — and maybe the best in baseball so far this season — finally got his first save of the season on Sunday, as JP Feyereisen needed only 5 pitches to set the Yankees down in order in the 9th. Feyereisen, who still has a 0.00 ERA (and 0.39 WHIP!) on the year, moves up a slot on the hierarchy.

Updated hierarchy: *Poche | Feyereisen | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

May 29, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — Colin Poche pitched a perfect ninth yesterday for his second save of the season.  Poche has now recorded the last two Rays’ saves while Brooks Raley hasn’t recorded a save in over two weeks.  That’s enough to move Poche to the head of the committee but we are all too familiar with this game.  A Rays’ reliever gets a couple of saves, Closer Monkey moves that reliever to the head of the committee, and then the Rays inevitably use somebody not on our hierarchy for the next couple of save chances.  Jason Adam is a good candidate to fill that role so if you believe in the curse of the Monkey, we won’t blame you for looking at somebody like him instead of Poche.  Rays gonna Rays!

Updated hierarchy: *Poche | Raley | Feyereisen.
* = closer-by-committee

May 26, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — J.P. Feyereisen (0.00 ERA, 0.43 WHIP, 23 K in 21 IP) struck out the 2-3-4 hitters in the eighth against Miami, leaving the ninth for Colin Poche. The save didn’t come easy, with two infield singles, a walk, and an error, but the lefty came through. This means nothing for Tampa’s hierarchy, because nothing ever means anything for Tampa’s hierarchy. Anyone can and will pitch at any time, and there’s not a dang thing we, you, or Goose Gossage can do about it.

Hierarchy remains: *Raley | Feyereisen | Beeks.
* = closer-by-committee

May 24, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Andrew Kittredge was placed on the IL over the weekend. He’s been an arm that the Rays have called upon frequently in the late innings (and he’s the most-owned Rays reliever in fantasy), so it’ll be interesting to see how they adapt to his absence. Personally, we’d like to see Jalen Beeks (1.54 ERA, 0.80 WHIP) get some more high-leverage spots, so we’ll try and manifest that by sliding him on to the hierarchy in Kittredge’s absence.

Updated hierarchy: *Raley | Feyereisen | Beeks.
* = closer-by-committee

May 14, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — …but if you come at the king, you best not miss. Just as Brooks Raley was looking to take the reins of the always volatile Tampa committee, he gets brought in for the 8th inning with a 1 run lead, and gives up a run on 3 straight hits before getting pulled for the struggling Andrew Kittridge. Kittridge got a strikeout and a GIDP to escape the jam, and went on to earn the win, but that left the save chance to Jason Adam, who pitched a perfect 9th for his first career save. Adam has been outstanding this year, and joins the ever growing list of Rays relievers with a save, but will have to show this wasn’t just a one-off before he cracks the hierarchy. More importantly, Tampa showed that they can and will bring bullpen chaos on any given night. 

Hierarchy Remains: *Raley | Kittredge | Feyereisen.
* = closer-by-committee

May 12, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — Don’t look now, but Andrew Kittredge has two straight blown saves, the latest coming in the eighth last night. J.P. Feyereisen and Brooks Raley picked him up, though, with Raley picking up the save in the tenth — his third in the last week. It’s silly to project the Rays’ bullpen usage, but the trends show Raley waxing and Kittredge waning.

Updated hierarchy: *Raley | Kittredge | Feyereisen.
* = closer-by-committee

May 7, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — With Andrew Kittredge getting the night off, Ryan Thompson got the ball in the 8th with a 1 run lead. He gave up 2 runs, but got a chance for redemption after Tampa retook the lead in the top of the 9th. A solo homer later, and he got the hook, leaving the vulture save to Brooks Raley. These were the first runs that Thompson has given up on the year, so it is unlikely to affect Tampa’s late inning plans too much, as if those plans could ever really be predicted. 

Hierarchy remains: *Kittredge | Thompson | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

May 6, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – As the Vulture Save Watch predicted, Andrew Kittridge was not available on Thursday. Brooks Raley did the honors on Thursday to earn his second save. He’s the third Ray to have a save this season, so by default we will have to sneak him onto this hierarchy, even if it means we have to remove J.P. Feyereisen, who hasn’t allowed an earned run this year.  

Updated hierarchy: *Kittredge | Thompson | Raley.
* = closer-by-committee

April 29, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays played the matchups in the ninth on Thursday. Lefty Colin Poche got the call to begin the ninth, with lefty JP Crawford due up and another lefty (Jarred Kelenic) scheduled to hit fourth in the inning. Poche allowed a single to Crawford and then recorded two outs. When Kelenic was lifted for a pinch hitter, manager Kevin Cash turned to Ryan Thompson, who struck out the lone hitter he faced for his second save. J.P. Feyereisen tossed two shutout innings earlier in the game, while Andrew Kittredge was not used. Rays gonna Rays! 

Hierarchy remains: *Kittredge | Feyereisen | Thompson.
* = closer-by-committee

April 25, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays – Ryan Thompson got a save for the Rays on Sunday, and so we’ll kick off yet another edition of “This is the Rays, so should we care?” Well, the righty sidearmer is off to a nice start thus far, with no earned runs allowed through 6.1 innings and a 0.95 WHIP. But he’s clearly a matchup play, and he’s got only 3 Ks so far (and 2 BBs) so his usage will likely be situational. We’ll put him on the hierarchy since he’s the only non-Andrew Kittredge reliever to get a save for the Rays so far (other than Brooks Raley, who got a weird one on opening day), but he’s probably just a speculative add in deeper leagues at this point.

Updated hierarchy: *Kittredge | Feyereisen | Thompson.
* = closer-by-committee

April 13, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — JT Chargois landed on the IL with left oblique tightness. We’ll add Matt Wisler to the hierarchy, but it’s the Rays so we really could have picked anyone.

Updated hierarchy: *Kittredge | Feyereisen | Wisler.
* = closer-by-committee

April 10, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — Andrew Kittredge recorded his first save of the season in the Rays’ 5-3 victory yesterday.  We all know what the Rays do with their bullpen at this point, but it’s encouraging for fantasy owners that drafted Kittredge to see him get a save.  

Hierarchy Remains: *Kittredge | Chargois | Feyereisen
* = closer-by-committee

April 9, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays –The Rays got started on chasing down last year’s record of 14 different relievers to get a save on Friday. Andrew Kittredge took the 8^th inning against the heart of the Baltimore order, which left the 9^th for JP Feyereisen. Feyereisen got 2 quick outs before giving up a single and getting pulled for Brooks Raley. Raley struck out the only batter he faced to earn the first Rays save of the season. Raley spent the last two season in Houston where he was mostly deployed as a lefty specialist. Tampa Bay is always an enigma, but Raley is probably a few more high leverage spots from cracking their normal hierarchy.

Hierarchy Remains: *Kittredge | Chargois | Feyereisen
* = closer-by-committee

March 30, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — Pete Fairbanks is likely to miss at least a few months with a lat injury, opening the high-leverage door for J.T. Chargois, J.P. Feyereisen, J.A. Happ, J.D. Drew, J.R. Smith, J.J. Watt, and, why not, maybe even J.G. Wentworth. It’s the Rays, baby, anything can happen.

Updated hierarchy: *Kittredge | Chargois | Feyereisen.
* = closer-by-committee

March 23, 2022
Tampa Bay Rays — Oh, the Rays. The bullpen where anyone has a chance to pitch the ninth inning. A lot of that was unfortunately due to injuries, but the Rays are projected to have several strong late-inning options back. As for who might have the first crack at saves? Uhhh, Andrew Kittredge? Pete Fairbanks? Good luck!

Starting 2022 hierarchy: *Kittredge | Fairbanks | Beeks.
* = closer-by-committee
Holds candidates: Literally everyone!

September 29, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays activated Andrew Kittredge from the IL. While we’re happy that Kittredge is no longer injured, we’re hoping someone new gets a crack at any save chances this week. The Rays were punished for sending out Josh Fleming (one save in 2021) for the ninth inning instead of JT Chargois (zero saves in 2021) on Tuesday with a 3-2 lead, as the Astros came back to win the game as Chargois couldn’t clean up Fleming’s mess.

Updated hierarchy: *Kittredge | McHugh | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

September 28, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – After recording his first save, Nick Anderson needed to head back to the IL with a sore back. The carousel continues to spin.

Updated hierarchy: *McHugh | Fairbanks | Chargois.
* = closer-by-committee

September 27, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – Nick Anderson became the 14th Ray to record a save this season, extending the team’s MLB record. Can you name them all?

Hierarchy remains: *McHugh | Fairbanks | Anderson.
* = closer-by-committee

September 21, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – On the day that the Rays put their erstwhile “closer” Andrew Kittredge on the IL, lefty Dietrich Enns picked up his second save (in his eighth career appearance), recording the final out of the 9th after JT Chargois got the first two. Rays gonna Rays.

Hierarchy remains: *McHugh | Fairbanks | Anderson.
* = closer-by-committee

September 20, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – Andrew Kittredge was placed on the IL with a sore neck. He was the de facto leader of the Rays bullpen; expect others including Collin McHugh, Nick Anderson, and Peter Fairbanks to fill the void.

Hierarchy change: *McHugh | Fairbanks | Anderson.
* = closer-by-committee

September 13, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – Nick Anderson finally made his first appearance of the season after being activated from the IL, pitching a scoreless inning in a loss to the Blue Jays. He was the Rays top reliever last season — during the regular season, anyway — so we’ll monitor to see if he works his way back in to the late inning mix. Knowing the Rays, he’ll get a chance at some point.

Hierarchy remains: *Kittredge | McHugh | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

September 5, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays have done it.  Dietrich Enns (we swear that is a real person and not somebody that we made up for this post) pitched the final three innings of an 11-4 Rays’ victory to pick up his first first career save.  Enns became the recordbreaking 13th Rays’ pitcher to record a save this season.  Maybe the Rays should take Jayson Stark’s idea to boost attendance and have a Pick the Closer pool each game.

Hierarchy remains: *Kittredge | McHugh | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

September 4, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Andrew Kittredge struck out a pair in a perfect 9th inning to pick up his sixth save of the season.  Kittredge has now recorded the last three saves for the Rays and four of the last five, with the only save he didn’t get being a three-inning save by Chris Mazza.  For any other team this would probably be enough to remove the asterisk, but we wouldn’t even dare suggest that for the Rays would we…

Hierarchy remains: *Kittredge | McHugh | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

September 2, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — David Robertson pitched a perfect eighth in a tied game, his first appearance since April 14, 2019. It’s impossible to say exactly where Robertson will fit into the Tampa bullpen, but here’s hoping that he can be the lucky 13th Rays reliever to garner a save later this season.

Hierarchy remains: *Kittredge | McHugh | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

September 1, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — After the Rays made things interesting in the ninth by allowing the Red Sox to get within three, Andrew Kittredge got the final two outs of the frame to earn another save and maintain his place at the top of this committee.

Hierarchy remains: *Kittredge | McHugh | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

August 29, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Andrew Kittredge pitched the final two innings of the Rays’ 4-3 victory to earn his fourth save of the season.  The Monkey is always a little excited when the guy who we have at the top of the Rays’ committee actually gets a save, but the Rays’ are using too many different guys to close out games at this point to be able to rely on any one guy as a good source of saves in fantasy.

Hierarchy remains: *Kittredge | McHugh | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

August 28, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — They’ve done it again. After the Rays took a four-run lead in the seventh, they turned to Chris Mazza, who finished the game to earn his first career save and become the record-tying 12th Rays reliever with a save this year. In honor of this grand accomplishment, Mazza got optioned to Durham this morning. In other news, Pete Fairbanks returned from the IL, and will immediately rejoin the hierarchy. He was the top save candidate after the Diego Castillo trade, but we’ll have to see how he’ll be used before putting him back there. 

Updated hierarchy: *Kittredge | McHugh | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

August 23, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – Another reliever got a save for the Rays on Sunday, and this one was of the three-inning variety, with Josh Fleming finishing off a 9-run victory. Fleming has been a starter or bulk innings guy for most of the year and doesn’t figure to get another save chance; still, the Rays efforts to challenge their record for most relievers to record a save is pretty darn impressive.

Hierarchy remains: *Kittredge | McHugh | Chargois.
* = closer-by-committee

August 22, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – Colin McHugh retired all five batters that he faced yesterday to record his first career save.  McHugh has made four scoreless appearances since returning from the IL a few weeks ago and his scoreless appearance streak is currently at 17.  In true Rays fashion, McHugh served as an opener last week and it wouldn’t surprise us to see that happen again.  However, we will still slot him into the hiearchy since he has been pitching extremely well and is a good option to close out games.  In other Rays’ bullpen news, Nick Anderson isn’t expected to return until rosters expand in September.  

Updated hierarchy: *Kittredge | McHugh | Chargois.
* = closer-by-committee

August 17, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – Matt Wisler was placed on the injured list yesterday — the 13th Rays reliever on the injured list — and the Rays also sent lefty Ryan Sherriff to AAA. So who’s left? We like Andrew Kittredge as the best bet for a save on any given night, though we’d also expect them to mix in Adam Conley and JT Chargois. And, you know, most of the rest of the bullpen. The Rays win a lot, so depending on your league’s size and categories, one or two of these relievers may still be worth owning; we’ll keep an eye on how they deploy their bullpen going forward.

Updated hierarchy: *Kittredge | Conley | Chargois.
* = closer-by-committee

August 16, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – Matt Wisler was placed on the IL with a finger injury. Andrew Kittredge is our best guest for saves now, but with so many injuries (and with the Rays spreading chances around regardless), it’s hard to know who will get the ball in the 9th at this point.

Updated hierarchy: *Kittredge | Sherriff | Chargois.
* = closer-by-committee

August 14, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Tampa Bay had a seven run lead going into the seventh and gave the ball to recently recalled Evan Phillips. Three innings and one run later he had his first career save. Despite his perfect save conversion rate, Phillips likely won’t see more save opportunities. On the other hand, he pitches for the Rays, so he could be right back in our update next week.  In other Rays’ bullpen news, Nick Anderson, who was expected to close at the beginning of the season, will pitch again today for Durham but is probably still a few weeks away due to when he got hurt. 

Hierarchy remains: *Wisler | Kittredge | Sherriff.
* = closer-by-committee

August 5, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Throw Ryan Sherriff into the mix for Rays saves. On Wednesday, he became the eighth Ray to earn one this season, placing the team within striking distance of last year’s record 12. Nick Anderson should be back soon; JT Chargois, Louis Head, and Drew Rasmussen haven’t gotten theirs yet this year; and there’s always room for a long reliever to go three innings with a big lead. If we can’t rely on one guy — note that Matt Wisler pitched the seventh and eighth — we might as well spread the wealth!

Updated hierarchy: *Wisler | Kittredge | Sherriff.
* = closer-by-committee

August 2, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Jeffrey Springs was officially placed on the IL today with a right knee injury. Matt Wisler, Andrew Kitteredge, and Drew Rasmussen should all help close out games until the Rays start getting some of their injured bullpen arms back; Wisler was the one who got (and converted) the save chance yesterday.

Updated hierarchy: *Wisler | Kittredge | Rasmussen.
* = closer-by-committee

August 1, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Jeffrey Springs left the game yesterday after hurting his right knee and will likely land on the IL.  Andrew Kittredge struck out the side in the sixth inning to record the win yesterday and Matt Wisler got five key ours after Springs was injured.  We will slide Wisler ahead of Andrew Kittredge based on yesterday’s usage but it can be hard to read too much into usage for the Rays since they move their relievers all around.  Expect an alert later today if Springs hits the IL.

Updated hierarchy: *Springs | Wisler | Kittredge.
* = closer-by-committee

July 30, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays are a World Series contender, but that didn’t stop them from trading away their saves leader (Diego Castillo) with multiple years of team control left. That’s just how they do things in Tampa. Nick Anderson is on a rehab assignment and could return soon, but he’s not ready yet, and relievers Pete Fairbanks and JP Feyereisen are on the injured list. Look for Jeffrey Springs, Andrew Kittriedge, Matt Wisler, and Drew Rasmussen to split opportunities. The Rays also acquired reliever JT Chargois in the deal (as well as Shawn Armstrong from the Orioles), so perhaps they’ll factor in, too.

Updated hierarchy: *Springs | Kittredge | Wisler.
* = closer-by-committee

July 29, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — The second-place Rays traded their 2021 saves leader Diego Castillo to the Seattle Mariners on Thursday. With Pete Fairbanks going on the IL after injuring his shoulder last night, save opportunities should be split among a committee of Jeffrey Springs, Andrew Kittredge, Matt Wisler, and Drew Rasmussen. Note also that Nick Anderson is rehabbing successfully and should be back with the team within the next few weeks.

Updated hierarchy: *Springs | Kittredge | Wisler.
* = closer-by-committee

July 23, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Diego Castillo picked up his first save since before the All-Star break, tossing a clean ninth and striking out two in Thursday’s win. Pete Fairbanks picked up the first two second-half saves and could be in line for an opportunity Friday if Castillo needs some rest.

Hierarchy remains: *Castillo | Fairbanks | Springs.
* = closer-by-committee

July 22, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — J.P. Feyereisen has been struggling recently, and now he’s hit the IL with shoulder tightness, with an MRI pending. Handicapping the Rays’ bullpen hierarchy has driven many a monkey to madness, but we like what we’ve seen from Jeffrey Springs lately. 

Updated hierarchy: *Castillo | Fairbanks | Springs.
* = closer-by-committee

July 19, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – Peter Fairbanks nabbed his fifth save of the year, which usually would have us saying “Rays gonna Rays” and moving on. But Diego Castillo didn’t pitch in the entire Atlanta series, and while there hasn’t been any word of an injury, it’s something we’ll continue to keep an eye on.

Hierarchy remains: *Castillo | Fairbanks | Feyereisen.
* = closer-by-committee

July 17, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – For the sake of Diego Castillo owners everywhere, we will be making the asterisk permanent in Tampa Bay and will avoid even mentioning dropping it. Last night’s extra-innings game saw the Rays take the lead in the 10th, and call on Pete Fairbanks to close out the game. He stranded the free runner to earn his 4th save of the year. The Rays will continue to be impossible to pin down, but Castillo is the most likely pitcher to get any given save chance. 

Hierarchy remains: *Castillo | Fairbanks | Feyereisen.
* = closer-by-committee

July 11, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – Diego Castillo pitched a scoreless 9th on Saturday for his 13th save of the season.  The Rays have only had two saves since June 15th but both have gone to Castillo.  Do we dare mention the thought of removing the asterisk?  Don’t worry Castillo fantasy owners, we wouldn’t do that to you after what happened earlier in the season… 

Hierarchy remains: *Castillo | Fairbanks | Feyereisen.
* = closer-by-committee

June 15, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – Peter Fairbanks got the 9th inning for the Rays on Monday, collecting his second save in four days. As a result, we’re moving him up a slot in this committee, thus basically guaranteeing JP Feyereisen gets the next save chance.

Updated hierarchy: *Castillo | Fairbanks | Feyereisen.
* = closer-by-committee

June 13, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – Another day and another save for the Rays’ bullpen.  Fantasy owners will be happy to see that this one went to committee leader Diego Castillo.  The Rays lead the majors with 41 wins and have generated saves in over half of those wins.  Castillo is up to 11 saves, and although a bunch of other random Rays’ relievers will continue to get saves, Castillo is the best guy to own.

Hierarchy remains: *Castillo | Feyereisen | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

June 12, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Hey, great, Pete Fairbanks got the save last night for Tampa. Moving forward, we will be replacing Rays updates with a spinning casino wheel that assigns random probabilities to every Tampa reliever, plus Fernando Rodney, because he’s the last one we could trust. Today we have: Diego Castillo 42%, JP Feyereisen 27%, Ryan Thompson 12%, Fernando Rodney 9%, Andrew Kittredge 6%, Jeffrey Springs 4%. Take it to the bank.

Hierarchy remains: *Castillo | Feyereisen | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

June 9, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – According to our website, Closer Monkey tracks the bullpens of all 30 teams. Well, it might as well be 29 as long as the Tampa Bay Rays remain in business. We moved JP Feyereisen to the top of the committee on June 1 after he earned three straight saves, and since then Diego Castillo has converted each of his team’s last two save opportunities, including on Tuesday. Feyereisen has issued six walks over his last 2.2 IP, including three in just a third of an inning on Tuesday, presumably because we jinxed him. We welcome Castillo back to the top of the hierarchy and we wait to see which Rays reliever other than him gets the next save.

Updated hierarchy: *Castillo | Feyereisen | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

June 6, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – The complicated relationship between Closer Monkey and the Rays bullpen continued yesterday as the first save opportunity since we moved JP Feyereisen to the head of the committee obviously went to the person who we just replaced as head of the committee, Diego Castillo.  Castillo picked up his 9th save of the season by striking out the side.  We aren’t going to try and predict who gets the next save, but Feyereisen and Castillo could both be a decent source of saves because of how many save opportunities the Rays are generating.

Hierarchy remains: *Feyereisen | Castillo | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

June 1, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – JP Feyereisen now has five appearances for the Rays: a 6th inning debut, followed by four straight 9th inning save chances, of which he has converted three. (In the fourth, he gave up a run and blew the save, but stayed on and pitched the 10th for the win.) All four of those opportunities have come after Diego Castillo’s last save on May 22, which is enough for us to push Feyereisen to the head of this committee.

Updated hierarchy: *Feyereisen | Castillo | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

May 30, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Diego Castillo preserved a tie game in the top of the eighth against the heart of the Phillies’ order, which paved the way for J.P. Feyereisen to notch his second save of the season when the Rays took the lead in the bottom of the eighth. It looks like Castillo and Feyereisen are the top two options in the Tampa bullpen right now, as Pete Fairbanks hasn’t pitched since Tuesday.

Updated hierarchy: *Castillo | Feyereisen | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

May 27, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — J.P. Feyereisen got the save chance, one day after Pete Fairbanks converted, but Feyereisen couldn’t shut down the Royals in the ninth. Feyereisen, who drove for Uber in Tampa as a Yankees minor-leaguer in 2018, did earn the win with a scoreless tenth. I guess what we’re saying is that the asterisk here looks permanent, and that Diego Castillo may not even be leading the committee. We’ll give it one more game before we make the move.

Hierarchy remains: *Castillo | Fairbanks | Feyereisen.
* = closer-by-committee

May 24, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – The recently acquired JP Feyereisen picked up his first save of the season, as Diego Castillo and Pete Fairbanks were given the day off after some heavy usage. We’ll slot Feyereisen in behind them.

Updated hierarchy: *Castillo | Fairbanks | Feyereisen.
* = closer-by-committee

May 23, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Diego Castillo pitched a scoreless 9th inning yesterday to pick up his 8th save of the season.  The Rays have a deep bullpen, with newly acquired JP Feyereisen joining the mix with a scoreless 6th inning yesterday, but Castillo certainly appears to be closer.  We will see how the Rays handle things moving forward, but we are cautiously optimistic that Castillo will be able to kick the asterisk soon.  

Hierarchy remains: *Castillo | Fairbanks | Thompson.
* = closer-by-committee

May 22, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — The other side of the trade sees the Rays bolstering their bullpen with JP Feyereisen and Drew Rasmussen. The Rays say they plan for Feyereisen to be a late-inning reliever for them, but that description could apply to any reliever on the team. Feyereisen did start the year with 17 scoreless appearances before struggling a bit recently, so he has the talent to get high leverage spots in Tampa. We will wait to see how they use him before making a hierarchy move. 

Hierarchy remains: *Castillo | Fairbanks | Thompson.
* = closer-by-committee

May 20, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — With a three-run lead, Tampa used Diego Castillo in the eighth and Pete Fairbanks in the ninth. Fairbanks put three men on, yielding a run, but picked up his first save of the season. Ryan Thompson struck out three in the seventh, earning a win and the chance to reenter a hierarchy that basically rolls five-deep at this point.

Updated hierarchy: *Castillo | Fairbanks | Thompson.
* = closer-by-committee

May 15, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays activated Diego Castillo from the IL on Friday.  We will move Castillo back to the top of the hierarchy but we won’t dare mention the possibility of removing the asterisk because we all know how that went last time…

Updated hierarchy: *Castillo | Springs | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

May 14, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – Could the Rays be veering away from a committee again? Well, we won’t go that far yet, but saves-leader Diego Castillo is set to be activated when he’s first eligible on Friday.

Hierarchy remains: *Springs | Thompson | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

May 10, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – In a tight game against the A’s, Tampa used all three of the relievers we have listed on our hierarchy — but none of them got the 9th inning. Instead, that duty fell to Andrew Kittredge, who picked up his 2nd save of the season. Rays gonna Rays.

Hierarchy remains: *Springs | Thompson | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

May 6, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Tampa had an immediate save chance in the wake of Diego Castillo’s groin injury, and it went to Jeffrey Springs. Springs got the first shot, but the next one could easily go to Ryan Thompson or Peter Fairbanks. Until Castillo comes back, the committee asterisk is a certainty.

Hierarchy remains: *Springs | Thompson | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

May 5, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays have placed Diego Castillo on the IL, retroactive to yesterday. Peter Fairbanks was activated in a corresponding move, and joins several other candidates (Jeffrey Springs, Ryan Thompson, etc.) for saves in Castillo’s absence.

Updated hierarchy: *Springs | Thompson | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

April 28, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — The asterisk won’t be returning today, as Diego Castillo closed out Tuesday’s win despite allowing a leadoff homer in the ninth. It’s still mayhem in the innings leading up to the ninth, but at least Castillo seems to have returned to his usual role.

Hierarchy remains: Castillo | Springs | Thompson.

April 25, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Diego Castillo is back from the IL but he did not pitch yesterday.  Instead, the Rays went back to their old bag of tricks using Andrew Kittredge, who was used as an opener two outings ago, to close out yesterday’s win.  We are hoping that things will calm down again and Castillo will settle back into the closer’s role but if the Rays keep up with their usual bullpen shenanigans, we will be forced to give in and bring back the asterisk.

Hierarchy remains: Castillo | Springs | Thompson.

April 24, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Never regret thy fall O Icarus! The asterisk in Tampa was seemingly the only thing keeping the bullpen gods at bay, and the Rays placed Diego Castillo on the COVID IL yesterday with side effects from vaccination. He is only projected to miss Friday’s game, but keep an eye out for his activation today just to be safe.

Hierarchy remains: Castillo | Springs | Thompson.

April 22, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — The baseball gods continue their revenge for the hubris of removing the Rays’ eternal asterisk. This time, Diego Castillo actually got the save chance, but the Royals small-balled him to death, in a game both bullpens were evidently desperate to lose. Our only prediction going forward? Pain.

Hierarchy remains: Castillo | Springs | Thompson.

April 21, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – Look, we’re sorry we jinxed it. Rays relievers have recorded two saves since we removed the asterisk next to Diego Castillo’s name and neither of them were Diego Castillo. After Jeffrey Springs notched his first career save on Sunday, Trevor Richards pitched the final three innings of Tampa’s 14-7 win to earn his first career save. Richards doesn’t normally factor into the Rays’ late-inning plans. In other news, Cody Reed landed on the 10-day IL due to left thumb weakness.

Updated hierarchy: Castillo | Springs | Thompson.

April 19, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays – To be fair, we told you this would happen: Yesterday morning, we pulled the asterisk from Diego Castillo, marking the first time since 2019 that the Rays had a non-committee. And then, yesterday afternoon, Castillo went out to finish off the 7th, pitched the 8th, and then gave way to Jeffrey Springs and his zero career saves who closed out the 2-run victory. Castillo is still the guy here, but for the first time this season, we’ve seen that “Rays gonna Rays” could still very much be in play here in the late innings.

Updated hierarchy: Castillo | Reed | Springs.

April 18, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — For the first time since 2019, the monkey has removed the asterisk for the Tampa Bay Rays.  Diego Castillo struck out a pair in a 6-3 Rays victory yesterday to pick up his 4th save of the season.  Castillo is the only Rays’ reliever to record a save so far this season and that is enough to remove the committee tag (which probably means the next 4 saves will go to some other random relievers we have never heard of). 

Hierarchy remains: Castillo | Reed | Thompson.

April 10, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays bullpen got hit with another injury. This time it is Pete Fairbanks, who has a strained rotator cuff. The injury could keep him out into June. Fairbanks joins Chaz Roe and Nick Anderson on IL, leaving Diego Castillo as the best option the Rays have. Cody Reed and Ryan Thompson will also be options for saves, but with all the injuries, Castillo has a chance to establish himself as the primary closer.  We will leave the committee tag for now given the Rays history but that could change if Castillo converts a couple more save chances.  

Updated hierarchy: *Castillo | Reed | Thompson.
* = closer-by-committee

April 7, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Chaz Roe is on the 60-day IL with a right shoulder strain. Lefty Cody Reed made his 2021 debut on Tuesday and earned a seventh-inning hold. Kevin Cash said before the game that Reed will “play a big role,” which is good enough to get a spot in this hierarchy.

Updated hierarchy: *Castillo | Fairbanks | Reed.
* = closer-by-committee

April 3, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — These are the Rays we know and love! Pete Fairbanks got the high-leverage final out in the sixth; Chaz Roe collected a hold, but was instrumental in blowing the lead; and the save chance wound up with Diego Castillo, his second in as many days. While Tampa’s bullpen will continue to be unpredictable, they are a good source of holds if your league counts them, and Castillo could make a run as a more traditional closer while Nick Anderson is out. 

Hierarchy remains: *Castillo | Fairbanks | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

April 2, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Diego Castillo was given the first save chance of the season for the Rays and he converted with two strikeouts. Ryan Thompson pitched the seventh and Pete Fairbanks pitched the eighth ahead of Castillo. It’d be nice if it always worked this way, wouldn’t it? But it won’t. We’ll move Castillo to the front, for now, but expect Fairbanks to get his share of chances, too.

Updated hierarchy: *Castillo | Fairbanks | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

March 26, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Nick Anderson learned Thursday that a partially torn elbow ligament will put him out of action for at least the first half of the season. Until his August return, Pete Fairbanks and Diego Castillo should see even more of high-leverage work, with Chaz Roe and Ryan Thompson also possible options.

Updated hierarchy: *Fairbanks | Castillo | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

March 3, 2021
Tampa Bay Rays — Last year, Tampa Bay tied a major league record with 12 different players recording a regular-season save — in a season with 102 fewer games than normal! Still, the Rays made it all the way to the World Series, so it’s not like they intend on changing their philosophy of fluidity at most roster spots, especially closer. Look for Nick Anderson to lead the team in saves, with Pete Fairbanks, Diego Castillo, Chaz Roe and probably someone who isn’t on anyone’s radar seeing chances as well.

Starting 2021 hierarchy: *Anderson | Fairbanks | Castillo.
* = closer-by-committee
Holds candidates: Literally everyone!

September 27, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays had another chance to be the first team in history with 13 different pitchers recording a save but instead, they decided to let Aaron Slegers pitch the final three innings to pick up his second save of the season.  We will see if the Rays get another chance on the last day of the season.

Hierarchy remains: *Anderson | Castillo | Drake.
* = closer-by-committee

September 26, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays — John Curtiss struck out the bottom three members of the Phillies’ lineup to pick up his second save. Great for Curtiss, sure, but Kevin Cash wasted a golden opportunity to have the first team in MLB history where 13 different pitchers earned at least one save. Pete Fairbanks and Aaron Loup, we’re pulling for you.

Hierarchy remains: *Anderson | Castillo | Drake.
* = closer-by-committee

September 20, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays have already clinched a playoff spot so maybe now they are trying to see if they can get each one of their relievers a save?  It was Ryan Thompson’s turn on Saturday as he got the last two outs for the save.  Thompson became the 12th Rays’ reliever to pick up a save this season.  Aaron Loup and Sean Gilmartin are the only active relievers who haven’t recorded a save yet this season, but there is a week left to change that.

Hierarchy remains: *Anderson | Castillo | Drake.
* = closer-by-committee

September 19, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays — If you somehow started Ryan Sherriff on your fantasy team yesterday — perhaps because your league makes you start four lefty relievers and also counts pitcher strikeouts against you — you’re a winner in Rays Save Roulette! The lefty Sherriff had the platoon advantage over two hitters, both of whom were pinch-hit for. 

Hierarchy remains: *Anderson | Castillo | Drake.
* = closer-by-committee

September 16, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays activated Oliver Drake from the IL on Tuesday. Drake will be eased back into action and probably won’t pitch on back-to-back days right away, but we’re sliding him back into this committee as someone who may eventually see a save chance. 

Updated hierarchy: *Anderson | Castillo | Drake.
* = closer-by-committee

September 13, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays — Diego Castillo pitched a scoreless 9th to pick up his fourth save of the season yesterday. Nick Anderson, who also has four saves, pitched a scoreless 8th inning and still has yet to allow a run this season.  This will likely continue to be a committee because that’s what the Rays do.  Do you know what else the Rays do?  They start nine left-handed hitters for the first time in modern MLB history.  Keep doing what you do.    

Hierarchy remains: *Anderson | Castillo | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

September 5, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays — Nick Anderson was activated from the injured list on Friday and immediately found himself pitching the ninth with a one-run lead. A leadoff walk and a throwing error increased the difficulty level, but Anderson escaped with the save. It wasn’t all good news for the Rays, however, with Jose Alvarado moving to the 45-day IL; he’ll be out the rest of the season.

Updated hierarchy: *Anderson | Castillo | Fairbanks.
* = closer-by-committee

August 27, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays made it official, placing Jalen Beeks on the 45 day IL, ending his season. Beeks had rounded into over the past couple weeks, helping keep the Tampa bullpen afloat amidst a terrible run of injuries. Ryan Sherriff was called up to replace Beeks on the roster and immediately pitched a clean 8th inning, and earned a win after the Rays took the lead in the bottom half. Diego Castillo, who we like to lead this committee, picked up his first save on the year, although the Tampa bullpen may be best left alone. 

Hierarchy remains: *Castillo | Curtiss | Garcia.
* = closer-by-committee

August 26, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays – The Tampa bullpen just can’t catch a break. Jalen Beeks was on his way to a two-inning save when he was forced to leave the game with one out in the ninth. Edgar Garcia came on to notch the final two outs and become the ninth Rays pitcher to earn a save. The early prognosis for Beeks wasn’t promising, and we won’t be surprised if he becomes the latest Tampa pitcher to hit the IL. As we said on Monday, this bullpen is probably worth staying away from except in the deepest of leagues.

Updated hierarchy: *Castillo | Curtiss | Garcia.
* = closer-by-committee

August 24, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays – Nick Anderson, arguably the best arm in the Rays bullpen, was placed on the IL with forearm inflammation, joining Chaz Roe, Jose Alvarado, Oliver Drake, and Andrew Kittredge. Last men standing get the saves in Tampa, which means some combination of Diego Castillo, Jalen Beeks, Aaron Loup, John Curtiss (who got his first save on Sunday) and whoever else they might dredge up. This bullpen is probably worth staying away from except in the deepest of leagues.

Updated hierarchy: *Castillo | Curtiss | Loup.
* = closer-by-committee

August 23, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays – Chaz Roe has been placed on the IL with elbow soreness.  Jalen Beeks could see more time in the later innings while Roe is out.

Updated hierarchy: *Anderson | Castillo | Beeks.
* = closer-by-committee

August 21, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays – Diego Castillo entered Thursday’s game in the fifth inning and allowed a run in one-third of an inning, but he earned the win when the Rays retook the lead in the next half inning. The recent usage for Castillo followed a pattern that seems to indicate he’s not likely to get the team’s next save chance should Nick Anderson be unavailable. That opportunity might go to Chaz Roe instead, so we’ll make that swap in the hierarchy. 

Updated hierarchy: *Anderson | Roe | Castillo.
* = closer-by-committee

August 20, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays found themselves up 2 against the Yankees in the 9th, but after Chaz Roe pitched himself into a jam, they turned to Jalen Beeks to get the last two outs of the game. He struck out both batters he faced to earn his first save of the year. Beeks is normally more of a long reliever for the Rays, but with Nick Anderson pitching earlier in the game, Diego Castillo resting after a 21 pitch outing on Tuesday, Beeks got the call. While this was an impressive performance in a tough situation, Beeks doesn’t normally factor into the late innings.

Hierarchy remains: *Anderson | Castillo | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

August 19, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays – With the Rays ahead of the Yankees, 6-3, Nick Anderson entered the bottom of the eighth to face the 3-4-5 hitters, which he retired in order. That led to Chaz Roe earning his first save of the season with a scoreless ninth. Jose Alvarado is on the IL, so expect Roe to see a few more high-leverage chances going forward.

Updated hierarchy: *Anderson | Castillo | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

August 17, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays – Perhaps the most unlikeliest save of the season went to Tampa’s Aaron Slegers, who closed out the 2nd game of Tampa’s pseudo-double header after the game went to “extra” innings, AKA the 8th. Even after his scoreless outing, Slegers has a career 6.43 ERA across 35 big league innings, so if you had him your lineup yesterday, send us a screenshot and win a year of Closer Monkey Premium.

Hierarchy remains: *Anderson | Alvarado | Castillo.
* = closer-by-committee

August 14, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays – In his first appearance this season, Anthony Banda delivered three innings of relief to close Thursday’s win over the Red Sox to earn a surprising save. He will not regularly factor into the team’s ninth-inning plans, but with the way the Rays utilize their bullpen, who really knows? (He won’t. Don’t pick him up. Also, don’t pick up Andrew Kittredge. He’s on the 45-day IL.)

Updated hierarchy: *Anderson | Alvarado | Castillo.

August 11, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays – Last night, holding on to a 1-run lead in the 9th inning, the Rays did what most any team would do — turn to a reliever whose last two outings saw him pitch in the 4th and 5th innings. But as with most Rays-related unorthodoxies, it worked out perfectly well, as Andrew Kittredge nailed down his first career save. Nick Anderson is still the best arm to own here, but look for the Rays to spread their opportunities around widely, with Kittredge, Jose Alvarado, Chaz Roe, and Diego Castillo all potentially getting looks when matchups are right.

Updated hierarchy: *Anderson | Alvarado | Kittredge.
* = closer-by-committee

August 10, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays – Oliver Drake was placed on the IL with biceps tendinitis, leaving Nick Anderson as the likely first choice for saves in Tampa. Jose Alvarado returns from the paternity list today; he and Diego Castillo could also be in the mix going forward.

Updated hierarchy: *Anderson | Alvarado | Castillo.
* = closer-by-committee

August 9, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays — Nick Anderson came on for the last out of the second game of the doubleheader to get his second save of the season.  Oliver Drake pitched in a losing effort in the first game of the doubleheader.  This is still very much a committee and we will monitor to see if anybody can separate themselves from the rest of the pack.

Hierarchy remains: *Drake | Anderson | Alvarado.
* = closer-by-committee

August 8, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays — Chaz Roe deserved a win and a save for his performance against the Yankees on Friday night, escaping a leadoff double to retire the side in the eighth, then coming out again for the ninth to protect a one-run lead. Oliver Drake hasn’t pitched since taking the loss on August 1, and his absence tonight illustrates that this is very much still a committee.

Hierarchy remains: *Drake | Anderson | Alvarado.
* = closer-by-committee

August 5, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays held a comfortable 5-1 lead in the ninth inning until Ryan Thompson allowed three straight hits to load the bases. Thompson buckled down to record an out before Nick Anderson came on to retire the next two batters and preserve the four-run victory.

Hierarchy remains: *Drake | Anderson | Alvarado.
* = closer-by-committee

July 29, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays — Oliver Drake picked up his second straight save with his second consecutive 1-2-3 inning on Tuesday night. Nick Anderson entered a 5-1 game in the seventh and allowed an inherited runner to score before getting the Rays out of a jam, while Chaz Roe earned an eighth-inning hold. The Rays should continue turning to Drake in the ninth inning until he falters.

Hierarchy remains: *Drake | Anderson | Alvarado.
* = closer-by-committee

July 26, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays — Oliver Drake pitched a perfect 9th inning to pick up the first save of the season for the Rays.  Nick Anderson threw 1.1 scoreless innings ahead of Drake and got the win.  Jose Alvarado struck out a pair in a scoreless ninth inning of the Rays loss on Friday.  The Rays have a number of great options at the back end of the bullpen and aren’t afraid to ride the hot hand, as was evident with Emilio Pagan last year.  We will slide Drake to the head of the committee for now.

Updated hierarchy: *Drake | Anderson | Alvarado.
* = closer-by-committee

February 24, 2020
Tampa Bay Rays — Emilio Pagan appeared to emerge from a crowded field of a quality arms to become Tampa Bay’s best save option in 2019, so of course the Rays elected to keep their closer carousel spinning by trading Pagan to the Padres. What’s left is a group of high-impact relievers who will likely form a committee to start the 2020 campaign. Nick Anderson, acquired late last season, pitched to a 2.11 ERA, 0.656 WHIP, and 17.3 K/9 in 23 games after the trade, and appears to be the head of that committee, along with Diego Castillo and Jose Alvarado.

Starting 2020 hierarchy: *Anderson | Alvarado | Castillo.
* = closer-by-committee
Holds candidates: Alvarado, Castillo, Chaz Roe, Oliver Drake.

September 24, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – After Emilio Pagan got in a bit of trouble in the 9th, Colin Poche came on and struck out both hitters he faced for his second save of the year.

Hierarchy remains: Pagan | Anderson | Drake.

September 19, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — All it took was an 11-inning tilt using nine Rays pitchers for Peter Fairbanks (7.94 ERA) to get his second save in eight days. We don’t expect another.

Hierarchy remains: Pagan | Anderson | Drake.

September 11, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — Peter Fairbanks got his first save of the season, closing out an 11th inning victory. Even in the unpredictable Rays bullpen, Fairbanks is unlikely to get many chances to close out games.

Hierarchy remains: Pagan | Anderson | Drake.

September 8, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — Oliver Drake struck out the side of his second save of the season yesterday.  Emilio Pagan got the day off after pitched in two straight and four of the previous five games.  Nick Anderson ended up pitching the eighth with the game tied and that left Drake for the save after the Rays took the lead in the bottom of the eighth.

Updated hierarchy: Pagan | Anderson | Drake.

September 6, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — Emilio Pagan pitched a scoreless ninth Thursday for his 18th save. He’s had every Rays save since the beginning of August — except a three-inning vulture effort from Aaron Slegers. In other words, this is Pagan’s job with no asterisk needed. With that said, he’s been busy lately, so keep an eye on the Vulture Save Watch below.

Updated hierarchy: Pagan | Anderson | Poche.

August 24, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — Up seven in the seventh, Tampa turned to recent callup Aaron Slegers. The 6’10” Hoosier pitched well enough to finish the game, spreading out three hits and a run to earn his first career save. If you were desperate enough to start him yesterday on your team, send proof to [email protected] and we’ll give you free Premium for a year!

Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Alvarado | Anderson.
* = closer-by-committee

August 18, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — Although it did not result in a save, it would be hard for a website dedicated to bullpens to not acknowledge what the Rays’ did on Saturday.  5 relievers combined for 6.2 perfect innings of relief, striking out 14 batters.  The Rays overall set a major league record, striking out 24 batters without any walks.  Speaking of strikeouts, Nick Anderson has struck out the side in three straight scoreless appearances.  Since joining the Rays, Anderson has seven scoreless appearances with 17 ks in 7 innings.  That’s pretty good.

Updated hierarchy: *Pagan | Alvarado | Anderson.
* = closer-by-committee

August 14, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – Jose Alvarado returned from the IL on Tuesday and immediately saw some high-leverage work, getting the ball in the eighth inning with his team ahead by three. It wasn’t the easiest inning for Alvarado, who committed one of two Rays errors in the frame and allowed one run. He did get two outs, however, and had good velocity on his fastball. Kevin Cash said before the game that he will likely slot Alvarado into high-leverage situations, and that’s exactly what happened. We’ll update our hierarchy accordingly, with Diego Castillo, Nick Anderson, Chaz Roe and Colin Poche also expected to be in the mix for holds and save chances at any given moment.

Updated hierarchy: *Pagan | Alvarado | Castillo.
* = closer-by-committee

August 13, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – Jose Alvarado is close to rejoining the Rays and could do so as soon as today. As long as Alvarado is sharp, he could quickly rejoin the closer committee in Tampa.

Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Castillo | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

August 1, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — With a scoreless inning against Boston on Wednesday, Chaz Roe became the fourth Ray to pick up a save in just the last week. They could make it five soon after picking up Nick Anderson from the Marlins.

Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Castillo | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

July 29, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – Diego Castillo picked up his first save in six weeks on Sunday, striking out both hitters he faced to preserve a one-run victory. Castillo had a bumpy June, but has been much better this month, and will likely get a few more save opportunities going forward.

Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Castillo | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

July 27, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – True to their form, the Rays are using every reliever everywhere. Diego Castillo served as the opener last night, Chaz Roe locked up his 15th hold and Colin Poche pitched a clean ninth inning in a two-run game to earn his first save of the year. Poche is a strikeout machine whose overall stats have been hampered by some bad luck (0.97 WHIP vs. 6.46 ERA), while Oliver Drake hasn’t pitched since July 20. Meanwhile, Jose Alvarado played catch with no issues and is close to throwing off a mound.

Updated hierarchy: *Pagan | Castillo | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

July 22, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – A tired Rays bullpen turned to Adam Kolarek for the save opportunity on Sunday, and the lefty converted with a perfect inning of work for his first save of the year. Though the Rays use everybody everywhere, Kolarek will be pretty low on the list of likeliest 9th inning man on most nights.

Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Castillo | Drake.
* = closer-by-committee

July 21, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – Oliver Drake pitched a scoreless 8th inning  (and may have broken physics) with the Rays protecting a one run lead for his fifth hold of the season.  In his last six appearances, Drake hasn’t allowed any runs and has three holds and a save during that time period.  Chaz Roe also returned from the IL and could work his way back into the later innings.

Updated hierarchy: *Pagan | Castillo | Drake.
* = closer-by-committee

July 16, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – After Travis hit his third d’Inger, a go-ahead 3-run shot off Aroldis Chapman in the top of the 9th, the Rays were tasked with protecting a one-run lead without the services of Diego Castillo or Emilio Pagan, both of whom had already pitched. Instead, it was Andrew Kittredge to get the first two outs of the 9th, and then Oliver Drake, who played for five teams last year, was summoned for the last out. Drake converted for his first save of the season.

Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Castillo | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

July 13, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays activated Diego Castillo from the IL on Friday, with Chaz Roe replacing Castillo on an IL that already includes Jose Alvarado. Kevin Cash said that Castillo and Emilio Pagan will see the highest-leverage chances going forward. Meanwhile, Jose Alvarado is expected to miss six-to-eight weeks due to a right oblique strain.

Updated hierarchy: *Pagan | Castillo | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

July 8, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – With Jose Alvarado expected to miss some time with a strained oblique, the Rays are likely to lean more heavily on lefty Colin Poche when they need to play matchups. Poche picked up his 5th hold of the season on Sunday by retiring the last batter of the 8th inning.

Updated hierarchy: *Pagan | Roe | Poche.
* = closer-by-committee

July 4, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — The past seven weeks have seen a different Jose Alvarado than the reliever who dominated April and May. After allowing six runs on Wednesday, Alvarado identified a mechanical flaw as the source of his struggles. It seems likely that a different member of the Rays committee will get the next shot at the ninth inning.

Updated hierarchy: *Pagan | Alvarado | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

July 2, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – Jose Alvarado converted his first save since returning from a lengthy personal absence. We’ll bump him to the top of the committee with the understanding that Emilio Pagan may still get save chances when matchups are right.

Updated hierarchy: *Alvarado | Pagan | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

June 30, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — Jose Alvarado returned to the mound yesterday, pitching the ninth with the Rays up four.  As expected for a guy who hasn’t pitched in almost a month, it was a mixed bag.  Alvarado’s velocity was there, as he was almost hitting triple digits, but he showed some rust.  We will leave Pagan at the top of the committee for now while Alvarado rounds back into form.

Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Alvarado | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

June 29, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — Jose Alvarado has rejoined the team after being reinstated from the bereavement list. Alvarado had returned home to care for his mother in Venezuela, and had been working his way back into game shape over the past week. Alvarado, who Kevin Cash said is in a good spot, was the clear first choice for Tampa when he was available, but Emilio Pagan has done well enough to hold the top spot in the committee for now.

Hierarchy remains: *Pagan | Alvarado | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

June 23, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — Diego Castillo is going on the injured list with right shoulder inflammation. Emilio Pagan should be next in line for saves until Jose Alvarado is back in action.

Updated hierarchy: *Pagan | Alvarado | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

June 22, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — Diego Castillo had thrown 41 pitches over the last two days, including 28 in a blown save on Thursday. Emilio Pagan (45 pitches) had also been busy over the last two games, but he relieved Oliver Drake with one on and one out in the ninth and ultimately earned his fourth save of the season. With Jose Alvarado still not available, Drake and Chaz Roe combined to get the ball to Pagan on Friday. Pagan has pitched well over his last four outings and will continue to split save chances in Alvarado’s absence.

Hierarchy remains: *Castillo | Pagan | Alvarado.
* = closer-by-committee

June 21, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays Tampreal ExRays — Jose Alvarado is still working his way back after an extended time on the restricted and bereavement lists. Kevin Cash is hoping for a swift return, saying Thursday, “We need him.” That would appear to be true. Given a three-run lead in the ninth on Thursday, Diego Castillo coughed up four runs to take the loss. Castillo and Emilio Pagan will continue to split save chances until Alvarado’s return. 

Updated hierarchy: *Castillo | Pagan | Alvarado.
* = closer-by-committee

June 17, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – Jose Alvarado has finally returned to the United States after a long absence for personal reasons and will report to Port Charlotte for a tuneup before he comes back to the big league club. We’ll leave him on the hierarchy with the understanding that he won’t be back for at least a few more days, but will push Diego Castillo — who converted his 7th save of the year on Sunday — to the top of the hierarchy until Alvarado returns.

Updated hierarchy: *Castillo | Alvarado | Pagan.
* = closer-by-committee

June 10, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – Jose Alvarado spent the maximum seven days on the family medical emergency list, meaning he was transferred to the restricted list. Kevin Cash said there’s a chance that Alvarado is back with the club today or tomorrow.

Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Castillo | Pagan.
* = closer-by-committee

June 3, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – Jose Alvarado was placed on the family medical emergency list and will miss the next 3-7 days. Diego Castillo and Emilio Pagan will see the save chances in his absence.

Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Castillo | Pagan.
* = closer-by-committee

May 29, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — Diego Castillo picked up his first save since May 15, allowing a run but still managing to close out a 3-1 victory. That was only the Rays’ third save overall since that May 15 triumph. Jose Alvarado, who has the other two saves since then, had pitched in two straight and three of four entering Tuesday. Castillo was likely in line for a save on Monday had the Rays not scored four runs in the bottom of the eighth; Alvarado navigated the top of the Toronto order in the top half of the frame.

Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Castillo | Pagan. 
* = closer-by-committee

May 19, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — Jose Alvarado bounced back after blowing the save on Friday and pitched a scoreless ninth for his fifth save of the season.  This ties Alvarado with Castillo for the team lead, but it was his first save since April 7th.  Castillo meanwhile recorded four saves in between Alvarado’s fourth and fifth save and was likely unavailable yesterday after pitching in two straight and three of four.  We will leave Alvarado on top of the committee for now but Castillo is close to taking over the top spot.

Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Castillo | Pagan. 
* = closer-by-committee

May 16, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — Jose Alvarado and Emilio Pagan were used in tight spots in the middle innings, leaving Diego Castillo to pick up his team-leading fifth save.

Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Castillo | Pagan. 
* = closer-by-committee

May 3, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays have been one of the best teams in baseball, but their closing situation is certainly one of the game’s most volatile. On Thursday, Diego Castillo came in to convert his fourth save. Three righties were due in the ninth, so manager Kevin Cash opted to go with his righty, Castillo. Lefty Jose Alvarado, who also has four saves this year, did not pitch and hasn’t gone since Sunday. Emilio Pagan (three saves) pitched earlier in the game, getting the last out of the seventh and the first out of the eighth. Save chances should continue to be plentiful, but who earns them will remain a bit of a wildcard.

Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Castillo | Pagan.
* = closer-by-committee

April 29, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – Diego Castillo pitched a scoreless ninth for the Rays on Sunday, notching his 3rd save of the year. Jose Alvarado pitched the 8th and looks like he will be continually deployed when the opposing lineup is most threatening. This appears to be a full-fledged committee, with Alvarado, Castillo, and Pagan sharing 10 saves between them so far. 

Updated hierarchy: *Alvarado | Castillo | Pagan.
* = closer-by-committee

April 28, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – Diego Castillo started the eighth inning with the Rays up two and the Red Sox 2-3-4 hitters due up. However, Castillo was not sharp and he was pulled for Jose Alvarado after recording only one out. Alvarado was able to get out of the inning but needed 21 pitches so that left Emilio Pagan for the ninth inning. Pagan recorded his third straight save with a scoreless inning. Five relievers have recorded saves for the Rays so far this season and their bullpen is very fluid.

Updated hierarchy: *Alvarado | Pagan | Castillo.
* = closer-by-committee

April 24, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – Emilio Pagan picked up his second save in as many days, striking out two of the three hitters he faced in a 1-2-3 ninth inning. Kevin Cash praised Pagan after the game and noted that both Jose Alvarado and Diego Castillo will be available on Wednesday after two straight days of rest.

Updated hierarchy: *Alvarado | Castillo | Pagan.
* = closer-by-committee

April 23, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – With Diego Castillo having pitched 2 innings on Sunday and Jose Alvarado coming off a back-to-back, the Rays turned to Emilio Pagan for the save opportunity. Pagan converted, and has only allowed one baserunner through his first five innings this season.

Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Castillo | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

April 17, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — Jose Alvarado faced the top of the Orioles’ order in the eighth inning with the Rays clinging to a one-run lead and retired all three batters he faced. After Tampa added another run in the bottom of the inning, Diego Castillo followed with a 1-2-3 ninth to get the save. Both Alvarado and Castillo have been terrific this season and will continue to lock down the eighth and ninth innings when the Rays have a lead.

Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Castillo | Roe. 
* = closer-by-committee

April 11, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — Lefty Jalen Beeks earned a three-inning save in a 9-1 Tampa victory on Wednesday. Did you start him on your fantasy team? The first two readers who did, and send us proof, win free Premium for the season!

Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Castillo | Roe. 
* = closer-by-committee

April 9, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – Hunter Wood pitched the final three innings of a four-run game to register his first save of the season. It was an impressive outing, but Wood does not factor in to the Rays’ usual late-game plans.

Hierarchy remains: Alvarado | Castillo | Roe.

April 2, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – For the second game in a row, Diego Castillo got the 9th inning of a Rays victory. Yes, it was a six-run game, but that didn’t stop Tampa from using its would-be closer Jose Alvarado in the 8th. Look for Castillo to get occasional save chances here when Alvarado is unavailable or when matchups are right.

Updated hierarchy: Alvarado | Castillo | Roe.

April 1, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays – Jose Alvarado got the afternoon off after pitching two days in a row, allowing Diego Castillo to nab his first save of the season. We still expect Alvarado to get most of the save chances here.

Hierarchy remains: Alvarado | Roe | Castillo.

March 21, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays — As we expected, Jose Alvarado and Chaz Roe should get the bulk of the save chances for Tampa, with Diego Castillo and Ryne Stanek cycling between late-inning work and possible stints as the “opener.”

Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Roe | Castillo. 
* = closer-by-committee

February 18, 2019
Tampa Bay Rays –When we eventually start OpenerMonkey.com, you’ll know who to thank. The Rays, who surprisingly won 90 games last year, established the trend of using openers, though not everybody was a fan. That probably included most fantasy owners, who had to be less than pleased any time Sergio Romo trotted out to the mound in the first inning and not the ninth. With Romo off to Miami, the Rays will likely turn to Jose Alvarado if there’s a save chance on opening day. Chaz Roe and Diego Castillo are also good options in high-leverage spots, though Castillo may open as well from time to time.

Starting 2019 hierarchy: Alvarado | Roe | Castillo. 
Holds candidates: Roe, Castillo, Adam Kolarek.

September 27, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays — Every save is beautiful in its own way, but last night Sergio Romo earned one that only a Monkey could love. Romo got out of a light inherited jam in the eighth with the Rays up one, and then the team scored four runs to put things out of reach. Or so we thought. With a walk and five straight singles, the Yankees put the go-ahead run on first, and Romo — the eighth Rays pitcher of the game — still had two outs to get. He managed, somehow, and the coveted four-run, four-out save was all his.

Hierarchy remains: *Romo | Alvarado | Roe. 
* = closer-by-committee

September 21, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays — Austin Pruitt pitched the final three innings of an 11-3 win to pick up his third save of the season. He’s combined for 10 IP in those three saves, including a 5.2 IP save back in May.

Hierarchy remains: *Romo | Alvarado | Roe. 
* = closer-by-committee

September 17, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – After pitching just once in three weeks, Sergio Romo has now appeared in three straight games, notching his third consecutive save. The committee tag returns to Tampa, with Romo back on top. We honestly have no idea what was going on during his disappearance act in late August and September, and as far as we can tell, nobody in the Tampa media ever bothered to ask. Baffling.

Updated hierarchy: *Romo | Alvarado | Roe. 
* = closer-by-committee

September 16, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – After being absent for most of the beginning of September, Sergio Romo has now pitched the 9th inning in two straight games, including recording his 20th save last night.  We will move Romo to 1st in line and he could turn this back into a committee with Jose Alvarado if he continues to be available down the stretch.

Updated hierarchy: Alvarado | Romo | Roe.

September 13, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – Sergio Romo has pitched only once since August 25 — a 6-pitch outing on September 4th — and doesn’t seem like a reliable source of saves at this point. Tampa media is still completely quiet on his disappearance, but we’re knocking him down another spot on this hierarchy, and will remove him altogether if we don’t see him again soon. Jose Alvarado also loses his asterisk, as he’s become the clear cut choice for saves at this point.

Updated hierarchy: Alvarado | Roe | Romo.

September 5, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – Well, Sergio Romo was finally spotted on a Major League mound Tuesday night. With the tying run on deck in the ninth inning, Romo replaced Adam Kolarek and retired the next two batters to preserve a 4-0 win and record his 19th save of the season. After the game, Kevin Cash said the reason for Romo’s absence was that the matchups weren’t right. Jose Alvarado, who had recorded two of the Rays’ last three saves, was used in the sixth inning to protect a 1-0 lead in a move also dictated by matchups. We’ll keep Alvarado atop the Tampa hierarchy for now, but that could change if Romo becomes a late-innings regular again.

Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Romo | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

September 3, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – Sergio Romo’s disappearing act continued on Sunday, as Jose Alvarado recorded another save in the would-be closer’s absence. The Rays beat has been entirely silent about Romo, as nobody has appeared to even ask about his whereabouts despite the fact that he hasn’t pitched since August 25. We’re nudging Alvarado to the top of this committee until Romo shows his face again.

Updated hierarchy: *Alvarado | Romo | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

September 2, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays — Jose Alvarado, Chaz Roe, and Adam Kolarek combined to get the last seven outs of the Rays’ win, with the lefty Kolarek retiring the final batter to record the save.  Notably absent was Sergio Romo, who last pitched a week ago.  There has been no word of an injury to Romo so the Rays might just be trying to give him additional rest after a very busy August which saw Romo pitch in three straight games on three separate occasions.  Unless something comes out otherwise, Romo should still be the best source of saves out the Rays’ bullpen in September, but it looks like they are content to mix and match as well.

Hierarchy remains: *Romo | Alvardo | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

August 30, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays — Sergio Romo had collected the last two saves since Jose Alvarado grabbed one last week, but Wednesday night, the Rays called on Alvarado again for a save of the four-out variety. The break, combined with Thursday’s off day, gives Romo at least six days of rest heading into September. You can never be sure what the Rays are thinking, though, so we’re going to pop the committee asterisk back on these guys.

Updated hierarchy: *Romo | Alvardo | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

August 21, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – With a 1-run lead in the 9th inning, the Rays went to Jose Alvarado, who converted for his 5th save. This could have been a matchup play — lefty Lucas Duda led off the inning, and two of the three hitters that followed had worse splits against lefties than righties — as there was no indication that Sergio Romo was unavailable. We’ll continue to watch to see how this situation unfolds; if the Rays do this again, we’ll move them back to committee status.

Hierarchy remains: Romo | Alvardo | Roe.

August 17, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays — With the Yankees threatening with two outs in the eighth inning on Thursday, Sergio Romo was called in. He induced a grounder to end that inning, but ran into trouble in the ninth, allowing two hits and a walk before being pulled for lefty sidearmer Adam Kolarek, of all people. Kolarek got Greg Bird to foul out, then struck out the next two batters to nail down his first career save, vulture-style. And for Romo owners in holds leagues, consider his Thursday hold a bonus!

Hierarchy remains: Romo | Alvarado | Roe.

August 15, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays activated Chaz Roe from the DL prior to Tuesday’s game. Roe should return to pitching in high-leverage situations during the late innings.

Updated hierarchy: Romo | Alvarado | Roe.

July 27, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – Sergio Romo got 5 outs yesterday, in the 7th and 8th innings against the top of the Orioles lineup. He then gave way to Austin Pruitt for the last four outs, and Pruitt picked up his second save of the year, though this is still Romo’s job on most nights.

Hierarchy remains: Romo | Alvarado | Stanek.

July 26, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays — When the recently returned Johnny Venters replaced Sergio Romo to start the ninth inning of a one-run game against the Yankees yesterday, it looked like the Rays might be easing back into some kind of committee mode. Until, that is, one took a closer look at third base, where the Rays had stashed Romo while Venters retired lefty Greg Bird. With Bird out of the way, Romo jogged back to the mound to pick up the save and deliver a most unusual box score.

Hierarchy remains: Romo | Alvarado | Stanek.

July 24, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – It wasn’t the prettiest outing (1.1 IP, 1 H, 2 BB, 0 K), but Jose Alvarado managed to lock down his 4th save of the season on Monday night. Sergio Romo was unavailable due to a stomach bug, and appears to be basically the full-time closer at this point, but Alvarado is the best player to own should Romo get dealt in the next seven days. Also, with Diego Castillo’s recent struggles, keep an eye on righty Ryne Stanek (1.91 ERA, 47 Ks in 37.2 IP) to potentially get paired with Alvarado in a would-be closer committee.

Updated hierarchy: Romo | Alvarado | Stanek.

July 20, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays — Jose Alvarado is back with the team and should return to getting occasional save chances in the Rays’ pseudo-committee. Diego Castillo is right on his heels and may be the better long-term bet.

Updated hierarchy: *Romo | Alvarado | Castillo.
* = closer-by-committee

July 12, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays — Jose Alvarado was unfortunately placed on family medical emergency leave and will be out through the All-Star break. Stepping up in his place in the eighth inning on Wednesday was Diego Castillo, who could also be in line for a vulture save on Thursday. In Alvarado’s absence, Ryne Stanek (1.99 ERA; 39 K in 31.2 IP) could be called upon occasionally in the late innings when he’s not serving as a lights-out “opener.”

Updated hierarchy: *Romo | Castillo | Stanek.
* = closer-by-committee

July 11, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – With Chaz Roe on the DL, look for Diego Castillo to take over Roe’s role in the Tampa bullpen. Castillo, 24, made his big-league debut on June 6 and has been very good for the Rays, posting a 1.89 ERA and 21 strikeouts in 19 IP. If the Rays end up selling what’s left of their bullpen at the deadline, Castillo has the stuff to be the team’s next closer. Keep an eye on Castillo as the second half of the season gets underway.

Updated hierarchy: *Romo | Alvarado | Castillo.
* = closer-by-committee

July 4, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays grabbed a 9-4 lead against the Marlins in the 16th inning and turned to catcher Jesus Sucre to lock up the win. He allowed the first three batters to reach, followed by a sac fly in what turned out to be quite a unique at-bat. Jose Alvarado then entered to finally end things and pick up his third save of the year. Sergio Romo had pitched a scoreless 10th and 11th, throwing 42 pitches in the process, which means Alvarado has a good chance to get his second save of the day.

Hierarchy remains: *Romo | Alvarado | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

June 30, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – Sergio Romo started the 9th inning, but after two quick outs he gave up a single and got pulled for Jose Alvarado. Alvarado got a groundout to end the game and secure his second save of the year. Tampa Bay may still use Romo as a starter, but if he isn’t opening games he will certainly continue to see save opportunities when available.

Hierarchy remains: *Romo | Alvarado | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

June 20, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – Sergio Romo redeemed himself after a rough Monday by locking down the final two outs of Tuesday’s win in Houston. Jose Alvarado started the ninth, though he did not face any lefties. Alvarado eventually ceded to Romo with the Astros set to bring up several righties. This bullpen is still all over the map, but Romo still should be the most likely guy to close out games. One reliever to watch, however, is Ryne Stanek. He was sharp as Monday’s opener, and Kevin Cash then turned to him for Tuesday’s eighth inning. Stanek picked up his first hold of the year and may get some more high-leverage looks if he isn’t starting.

Updated hierarchy: *Romo | Alvarado | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

June 13, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – We mentioned yesterday that Sergio Romo was most likely to see a save chance when he isn’t starting, and last night that very situation presented itself. Romo locked down a 4-1 lead in the ninth inning to pick up his second save of the year. Romo remains the arm to own in Tampa.

Hierarchy remains: *Romo | Roe | Alvarado.
* = closer-by-committee

June 12, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – This is still easily the most unsettled bullpen in baseball, but last night, the Rays went to Sergio Romo in the 9th with a four run lead. On days when he’s not randomly starting, he seems to be the most likely candidate to get a save chance — though Chaz Roe, Jose Alvarado, and several others could always be on hand to mix in.

Updated hierarchy: *Romo | Roe | Alvarado.
* = closer-by-committee

June 10, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays — Chaz Roe secured his first career save on Saturday.  Roe came on in the eighth inning with two on and two out and got Jean Segura to ground out.  Roe returned for the ninth and pitched a scoreless inning for the save.  Jose Alvarado was warming up so he likely would have come on for the save if Roe ran into any trouble.  This situation is still very unsettled so it will be hard to rely on any one guy for saves at this point.

Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Romo | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

June 2, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays — As Kevin Cash’s reliever-as-a-starter experiment enters its third week, it doesn’t show any signs of stopping. Last night Sergio Romo pitched a successful first four outs before giving way to Austin Pruitt, although the Rays went on to lose in 13 innings. Romo is still a bullpen arm worth owning (he got the last Rays save) but his usage as a spot starter means he will miss out on save opportunities that he otherwise would get.

Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Romo | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

May 31, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays — Nathan Eovaldi’s return from Tommy John surgery went better than anyone could have hoped, with six innings of no-hit ball against the A’s. But you can’t tax his arm too much, so at 70 pitches, Kevin Cash went to the bullpen, and summoned . . . Wilmer Font. Yeah, the 28-year-old sans-serif rookie acquired from Oakland earlier this week, who’s somehow managed to put up double digit ERAs (and allow five home runs) for two different teams already this season. Font didn’t kern his 11th home run, but he did allow a hit for the 16th time in 18 innings, ruining the only reason the season-low crowd had to stay.

Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Romo | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

May 30, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – After making four starts this month, Sergio Romo is back in the bullpen and was tabbed by Kevin Cash to close out Tuesday’s tilt. Romo allowed a single and a double to start his outing, but he followed that with three straight groundouts (two of which plated runs) to complete a 4-3 win. Romo is the third Tampa reliever to record a save since Alex Colome was shipped to Seattle, and after the game Kevin Cash said that Romo will get some, but not all, of the save opportunities. Jose Alvarado had thrown 23 pitches on Monday, so a day off on Tuesday wasn’t that farfetched and it’s likely he gets the save chance today if one arises. Still, this is looking like a committee after last night’s comments from Cash.

Hierarchy remains: *Alvarado | Romo | Roe.
* = closer-by-committee

May 29, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – Jonny Venters got the last out of the 13th inning to seal a Tampa victory, giving him his first save in seven years. Venters’s comeback has been a great story, for sure, but he’s also now pitching his way into potentially a bigger role, as the lefty has posted a 1.04 ERA through his first 8.2 innings thus far.

Hierarchy remains: Alvarado | Romo | Roe. 

May 28, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – Austin Pruitt picked up a 5.2 inning save yesterday. It’s not the longest save in history — Joaquin Benoit got a 7-inning save in 2002, and it’s hardly the most memorable 5+ inning save in recent years. But it’s still pretty impressive. Keep up the weirdness, Tampa!

Hierarchy remains: Alvarado | Romo | Roe.

May 26, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – Closer Alex Colome was traded to the Seattle Mariners yesterday, leaving a hole at the back end of the Rays’ bullpen. Jose Alvarado is the best bet to step in, as he is the only other Ray to record a save this year and has put up solid numbers so far in 2018. Alvarado’s main competition for the closer’s role would be Sergio Romo, who took the loss last night after failing to get out of the first inning. Kevin Cash, who did not name a closer after the game, may reassess his options with Colome gone and pull the plug on the Romo as a starter, but as long as that experiment continues, Alvarado will likely see the bulk of save chances.

Updated hierarchy: Alvarado | Romo | Roe.

May 25, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays have traded Alex Colome to Seattle. Normally, we’d have guessed that Sergio Romo would be the man to step in to close, but that has been complicated by their decision to start him both tonight and Sunday. For tonight, we suspect Jose Alvarado would get the ball in the 9th inning. Going forward, they may re-assess and move Romo into a committee with Alvarado, or give him the ball outright. For the time being, both are worth adding if you’re speculating.

Updated hierarchy: Alvarado | Romo | Roe.

May 25, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays — It’s official. Rays manager Kevin Cash will use relievers to open each of the three games this weekend. Sergio Romo will start on Friday and Sunday, with Ryne Stanek taking the ball Saturday. The theory here is that the Orioles, like the Angels last weekend, are righty-heavy at the top of their order, so using a strong reliever to mow them down early will soften them up for the long reliever who follows. We’ll see how long this trend continues, but if Romo is starting games half of the time, he’s out of the running for vulture saves and holds. Jose Alvarado and Chaz Roe should pick up the slack. We’ll keep an eye on this fascinating strategy.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Alvarado | Romo.

May 20, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – Sergio Romo made his first major league start yesterday, and struck out the side in a perfect inning.  Since it went so well, the Rays have decided to start Romo again on Sunday.  Once he stops starting, he should return to his role at the back end of the Rays bullpen, but in the meantime, Jose Alvarado and Chaz Roe should help set-up Alex Colome.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Romo | Alvarado.

May 4, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – Welcome back to the major leagues, Jonny Venters! He hasn’t pitched since the 2012 playoffs, when Hall of Famer Chipper Jones was still active. Venters, now 33, underwent an incredible 3.5 Tommy John surgeries to get to this point, and the lefty specialist has allowed just one hit in 2.1 innings since his call-up.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Romo | Alvarado.

May 1, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – Jose Alvarado got the last two outs of the game on Monday night to pick up his first career save. Alex Colome and Sergio Romo had each pitched in three of the previous four.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Romo | Alvarado.

April 28, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays — Chaz Roe got the last two outs of the eighth inning to pick up his sixth hold of the year, putting him among the league leaders on the season, alongside teammate Jose Alvarado. Roe has been good in the early going, earning himself late-inning looks since starting the season in mop-up duty, and if Sergio Romo continues to struggle, Roe may crack the hierarchy soon. Either way, he’ll stay a good source of holds as long as he keeps getting situational chances.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Romo | Alvarado.

April 14, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays — Alex Colome’s seat is getting hotter and hotter. Although manager Kevin Cash called last night’s outing — where Colome struck out the side, but also allowed two hits and the go-ahead run — a “step in the right direction,” Colome’s 2018 has been marked by hard contact and earned runs. Sergio Romo and Jose Alvarado are lurking.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Romo | Alvarado.

April 11, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – Alex Colome hasn’t quite been the same closer that recorded 47 saves a year ago. On Tuesday, he allowed a pair of inherited runners to score courtesy of a three-run homer before walking the potential tying run. Colome got out of the jam to earn his second straight shaky save, but there is cause for concern, especially when he is just a few days removed from his second blown save of the season. Colome doesn’t seem too worried about it, while manager Kevin Cash doesn’t think it’s a mechanical thing. Sergio Romo will likely get Wednesday’s save chance, as Colome has pitched each of the last three days, and Romo may be worth a stash in case Colome can’t snap out of his funk.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Romo | Alvarado.

March 27, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays – Two veteran relievers that appeared to be strong candidates for set-up roles at the start of the spring — Daniel Hudson and Dan Jennings — didn’t even make the roster and will be seeking employment elsewhere. The moves were both a bit surprising — Hudson couldn’t get anyone out all spring (15.19 ERA) but was the player that the Rays acquired for Corey Dickerson; while Jennings had posted four straight scoreless outings after a rough first appearance — but at any rate, it’s now likely that the Rays will use veteran Sergio Romo and hard-throwing youngster Jose Alvarado to bridge the gap to Alex Colome.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Romo | Alvarado.

February 26, 2018
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays’ bullpen may soon look different if the team continues to gut the roster. For now, Alex Colome will return as closer after a 47-save campaign in 2017. There has been trade interest in Colome, though, and he probably projects as a setup man if he’s dealt. If Colome stays, Dan Jennings and newly acquired Daniel Hudson will share setup duties, with Sergio Romo, Ryne Stanek, and Andrew Kittredge all holds candidates.

Starting 2018 hierarchy: Colome | Hudson | Jennings.
Holds candidates: Jennings, Romo, Stanek.

August 31, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — Steve Cishek pitched two scoreless innings in middle relief last night, his fifteenth appearance since being acquired from Seattle. He hasn’t given up a run yet, and he’s rung up 16 strikeouts against only six hits and four walks.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Hunter | Cishek.

August 29, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays – Matt Andriese, a former starter who was activated earlier in the day, picked up the save last night, pitching the final three innings of a blowout and extending the Royals’ scoreless streak to a stunning 43 consecutive innings. Andriese should return to the rotation shortly and, obviously, won’t factor into the Tampa bullpen going forward.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Hunter | Boxberger.

August 2, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — Tommy Hunter (1.75 ERA, 0.97 WHIP) picked up his fourth eighth-inning hold in his last five appearances on Tuesday. When Alex Colome is unavailable, expect Hunter to get the ball in the ninth.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Hunter | Boxberger.

July 29, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays acquired Steve Cishek in a trade that sent Erasmo Ramirez to Seattle. Cishek has been okay for the Mariners this year (3.15 ERA, 15:7 K/BB ratio), but we’re not ready to slot him above Tommy Hunter (1.93 ERA, 10.5 K/9) or Dan Jennings just yet.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Boxberger | Hunter.

July 28, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays acquired Dan Jennings from the White Sox on Thursday, and Jennings entered last night’s game in the seventh inning, allowing two hits and one run on just eight pitches before getting pulled. He’ll hang around the late-innings for Tampa Bay, but we’ll monitor his usage to see where exactly he slots in.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Boxberger | Hunter.

July 5, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — Alex Colome nearly blew a three-run lead against the Cubs yesterday, but he was able to convert the save. It was Colome’s fifth straight appearance in which he allowed an earned run; he’s given up 10 earned runs in that five-game stretch. Kevin Cash didn’t suggest a change was imminent and Colome surprisingly only has one blown save in this recent stretch that has ballooned his ERA to 4.10. While Colome’s job doesn’t appear to be in jeopardy, former closer Brad Boxberger is looming and Colome’s leash has to be a little bit shorter.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Boxberger | Hunter.

June 29, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — Brad Boxberger was activated from the DL following Wednesday’s game, taking the place of Danny Farquhar, who was designated for assignment. Farquhar has the stuff and the experience to wind up on another major league roster immediately, either through waivers or a trade. Tampa has a lot of mediocre options in middle relief, so we’ll slot Boxberger right into his old (2014) setup role for now.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Boxberger | Hunter.

June 28, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — After Alex Colome suffered his second straight rough outing, Tommy Hunter nabbed his first save since 2015 by pitching a scoreless 10th inning. The save, coupled with a solid five-out hold on Sunday, has bumped Hunter into the hierarchy for the time being. As for Colome, after the game manager Kevin Cash said he’s not going to read much into his closer’s recent struggles. Help is on the way, however, as Brad Boxberger may be activated as early as today after what should have been his final rehab outing on Tuesday. Cash mentioned that Boxberger and Erasmo Ramirez could both see some high-leverage spots ahead of Colome, though Hunter, Jumbo Diaz and Danny Farquhar will likely be in the mix too.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Farquhar | Hunter.

June 24, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — Austin Pruitt pitched a scoreless three innings in a blowout to earn his first career save. You know the routine: first person to send us a screenshot with him in your fantasy lineup last night earns free Premium!

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Farquhar | Diaz.

June 22, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — Chase Whitley escaped a bases-loaded jam up five in the eighth and stayed on for the ninth inning to pick up a five-out save. Meanwhile, Brad Boxberger had a final rehab outing to forget, walking twice as many batters as he retired.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Farquhar | Diaz.

June 18, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays – Jumbo Diaz picked up the eighth inning hold ahead of closer Alex Colome yesterday.  That was his second eighth inning hold since returning from the disabled list a week ago, and it appears the Rays trust him in the later innings again after his struggles in May.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Farquhar | Diaz.

May 29, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays – Erasmo Ramirez, who had been shifted to the rotation less than two weeks ago, was summoned in the 15th inning of Sunday’s marathon game against the Twins, where he picked up his first save of the season. Amazingly, Ramirez still plans to start today for the Rays. That’s pretty cool.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Farquhar | Alvarado.

May 18, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — With Erasmo Ramirez returning to the Rays’ rotation yet again, Jose Alvarado should see even more late-inning opportunities.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Farquhar | Alvarado.

May 17, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — Jose Alvarado pitched two 1-2-3 innings over the 7th and 8th frames, including a clean trip through the heart of Cleveland’s order, to help maintain a 6-4 lead on Tuesday. It was his second straight hold, and Kevin Cash praised the 21-year-old lefty after the game. Alvarado has not allowed a run since a rough debut on May 3, allowing just two hits and zero walks over his last 6.2 innings. He does only have two strikeouts during that span, but he will be worth keeping an eye on as the season progresses and his confidence grows.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Farquhar | Ramirez.

May 13, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — Erasmo Ramirez has returned from his stint as a spot starter and seems to have reclaimed his role as the Rays’ middle-inning specialist.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Farquhar | Ramirez.

May 3, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — Alex Colome made his third appearance in as many days, but it was who pitched in front of him that raised some eyebrows. Erasmo Ramirez, whose last two appearances lasted four and five innings, respectively, and included a start he won, recorded an eighth-inning hold. Meanwhile, usual long reliever Chase Whitley locked down his fourth hold of the year with a strong seventh inning. Prior to Tuesday, Whitley had twice been tasked to get one or two outs as opposed to throwing two or three innings. We’ll move him and his 0.00 ERA into the Tampa hierarchy since it looks like Kevin Cash trusts him in big spots at the moment.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Farquhar | Whitley.

April 29, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — With both Alex Colome and Danny Farquhar resting, Jumbo Diaz got the call up four in the 9th. After a leadoff double followed by a single and a sacrifice fly, Chase Whitley came in to end the threat. He got the next two outs for his first save of the year. Whitley has been an effective long reliever since his return from Tommy John surgery; going forward, he’s mostly just a threat for three-inning saves.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Farquhar | Diaz.

April 22, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — Struggling lefty Xavier Cedeno has been moved to the disabled list with mild tightness in his forearm. The cupboard’s getting bare in the Rays bullpen — Brad Boxberger was recently transferred to the 60-day DL and can’t return until early June. Jumbo Diaz and Tommy Hunter will help Danny Farquhar get the ball to Alex Colome.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Farquhar | Diaz.

April 19, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays – Danny Farquhar got the seventh inning on Tuesday in a Rays win, and with Erasmo Ramirez expected to start on Thursday, Farquhar has entered the late-innings conversation in Tampa.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Cedeno | Farquhar.

April 8, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays – Xavier Cedeno has been bad in the early going this year. One day after giving up a hit to the only batter he faced, he was called on in a bases loaded jam only to walk in two runs before getting out of the inning. He did back into the win after the Rays took the lead in the bottom of the inning, and Alex Colome pitched a clean 9th for his 2nd save. Erasmo Ramirez took the 7th and 8th inning on Wednesday, and may get the next 8th inning shot.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Ramirez | Cedeno.

April 6, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — Kevin Cash is weird. He pulled starter Alex Cobb in the sixth after just 90 pitches, then yanked putative setup guy Xavier Cedeno after only one batter, who got an infield single. Jumbo Diaz escaped the jam, allowing Cash to get two scoreless innings from Erasmo Ramirez. Alex Colome earned the save despite two hits that bounced off him at high velocity. We won’t mess with the Rays’ hierarchy yet, but changes could be coming.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Cedeno | Ramirez.

March 30, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — A lingering lat injury will sideline Brad Boxberger through at least the first few weeks of April. If Erasmo Ramirez isn’t traded soon, he’ll be in line to get some seventh-inning work. Old friends Danny Farquhar, Chase Whitley, and Shawn Tolleson are the other options.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Cedeno | Ramirez.

February 27, 2017
Tampa Bay Rays — Alex Colome will resume his duties as closer for the Rays, with a crowded group behind him on the depth chart. 2015 closer Brad Boxberger probably has the inside edge for the eighth inning given his experience, but the seventh inning is a different story. Danny Farquhar, lefty Xavier Cedeno and former Rangers closer Shawn Tolleson will all battle for time in the late innings. If everyone remains healthy, Kevin Cash can mix and match in the late innings as he sees fit.

Starting 2017 hierarchy: Colome | Boxberger | Cedeno.
Holds candidates: Boxberger, Cedeno, Farquhar, Tolleson, Tommy Hunter.

September 23, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays — Chase Whitley now has three holds in three appearances, with each appearance lasting at least two innings. On Thursday, he bridged the gap from the sixth inning through two outs in the eighth inning ahead of closer Alex Colome. It may seem like a stretch, but he could be sneaking into the Rays late-inning plans as the season’s end draws near. Plus, Brad Boxberger has been terrible lately. He has allowed six runs over his last two outings, raising his season ERA to 5.31.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Cedeno | Whitley.

August 26, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays — Congratulations to Enny Romero, who picked up the first save of his major league career Thursday when he struck out a pinch-hitting David Ortiz to end things against the Red Sox. While the Vulture Save Watch correctly predicted a night off for Alex Colome, manager Kevin Cash played the matchups. He went with Tyler Sturdevant to start the ninth and Romero to end it, as his other late-inning options (Xavier Cedeno, Brad Boxberger) each pitched in two straight and needed a breather.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Cedeno | Boxberger.

August 10, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays — Erasmo Ramirez collected his first career save by pitching the final three innings in a 9-2 victory. While he’s appeared in our hierarchy in the past, he won’t factor in the Rays’ late-inning plans unless Brad Boxberger gets hurt again.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Cedeno | Boxberger.

July 30, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays — Former All-Star closer Brad Boxberger was activated from the disabled list on Friday. Although he’s unlikely to unseat Alex Colome, he should immediately enter the late-inning conversation, just ahead of Kevin Jepsen and Erasmo Ramirez.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Cedeno | Boxberger.

July 20, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays — Matt Andriese picked up a three-inning save in a 10-1 Rays win over the Rockies. He does not normally factor into the team’s late-inning plans.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Cedeno | Ramirez.

July 16, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays — Kevin Jepsen, released by the Twins, was picked up by the Rays this week and immediately pitched the ninth with the team down a run. While Jepsen will have to improve on his woeful Minnesota numbers to stick around, he is returning to a team where he saved five games last season — and Kevin Cash has been known to use his best reliever in the highest-leverage moments, not just the ninth inning. If Jepsen can return to the form he showed in 2015, he could climb into the hierarchy, but we’ll wait and see how he gets used before making that move.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Cedeno | Ramirez.

July 6, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays — Alex Colome was activated from the DL Tuesday and pitched in a losing effort, his first work since June 18. The All-Star will resume his role as the Rays’ closer going forward.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Cedeno | Ramirez.

July 5, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays – Ryan Garton snagged a sneaky vulture save last night with Xavier Cedeno getting the night off. The Rays have used a number of pitchers in the late innings recently, but Kevin Cash has shown confidence in Garton in the last few weeks. We expect him to continue to get late inning work going forward.

Updated hierarchy: Cedeno | Ramirez | Garton.

June 29, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays – Alex Colome was placed on the 15-day DL Tuesday with biceps tendinitis. It’s retroactive to June 19, so Colome may not miss much more time, but in his stead, manager Kevin Cash will mix and match in the late innings based on matchups. Xavier Cedeno is the best bet to lead that committee, with Cash also mentioning righties Matt Andriese and Erasmo Ramirez as candidates.

Updated hierarchy: Cedeno | Ramirez | Andriese.

June 28, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays – Alex Colome has been placed on the disabled list with biceps tendinitis. The Rays have not named an official replacement yet, though we feel it’s likely that Xavier Cedeno gets the first crack at closing. Erasmo Ramirez and Danny Farquhar are the other names to consider, but no one really stands out from this group beyond Cedeno.

Updated hierarchy: Cedeno | Ramirez | Farquhar.

June 2, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays — Brad Boxberger officially landed on the 15-day DL Wednesday with a left oblique injury, though he is slated to miss 4-8 weeks. When discussing Boxberger’s injury, manager Kevin Cash mentioned two names – Tyler Sturdevant and Ryan Garton – saying that they have pitched well and that it will warrant them more opportunities going forward.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Cedeno | Ramirez.

June 1, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays — Brad Boxberger’s return to major league action didn’t go quite the way he’d hoped. After quickly retiring two batters in the sixth inning, Boxberger gave up a single and a home run, then grabbed his left abdomen on a pitch that hit the next batter. He was immediately diagnosed with a side muscle strain and the prognosis didn’t look any better after the game. Boxberger seems likely to return to the DL — where he’d been ever since adductor surgery in March. Hope you hung on to Alex Colome.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Cedeno | Ramirez.

May 31, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays activated Brad Boxberger from the disabled list yesterday and will ease him back in to the closer role. Kevin Cash insisted there would be no closer controversy despite Alex Colome’s success, so we’ll place Boxberger straight into the closer spot, with the understanding that he might pitch the 8th inning a couple of times before he gets a save chance.

Updated hierarchy: Boxberger | Colome | Cedeno.

May 27, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays — Injured closer Brad Boxberger, who picked up 41 saves last season, could be closer to returning to the big league club. Boxberger pitched an inning Wednesday for the AA Montgomery Biscuits and will be on the hill on Friday, too. If all goes well, he could be back as early as Sunday or Monday.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Cedeno | Ramirez.

May 21, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays — Enny Romero pitched the 8th for Tampa on Friday and picked up his first hold since April 25. Entering Friday, opponents were batting just .098 against him, which is the lowest among MLB relievers. We’ll keep an eye out to see if he continues to get high-leverage work for the Rays.

Hierarchy remains: Colome | Cedeno | Ramirez.

April 27, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays — With Danny Farquhar optioned to Triple-A, Erasmo Ramirez has picked up back-to-back holds. Ramirez is a versatile pitcher that can also start, but it seems as if Kevin Cash likes the righty in the late innings.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Cedeno | Ramirez.

April 22, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays — The days of Kevin Cash’s closer committee appear to be over, as Alex Colome has picked up a save in three straight games. Thursday, Colome was called upon in the middle of the ninth inning of a wild 12-8 game against the Red Sox. With two men on and one out, he retired Mookie Betts and Dustin Pedroia — and Tampa’s asterisk, at least for now.

Updated hierarchy: Colome | Cedeno | Farquhar.

April 20, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays – Alex Colome recorded his second save and remains the number one option in Kevin Cash’s committee, though he and the team have only two saves.

Hierarchy remains: *Colome | Cedeno | Farquhar.
* = closer-by-committee

April 18, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays – Alex Colome picked up his first save of the season on Sunday. Though not the official closer yet, he remains firmly in the driver’s seat for any saves until Brad Boxberger’s return.

Hierarchy remains: *Colome | Cedeno | Farquhar.
* = closer-by-committee

April 7, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays – As the first Vulture Save Watch of the year predicted, Alex Colome was unavailable after a 34-pitch outing on Tuesday. However, Kevin Cash is nothing if not consistent with his bullpen. He has let the reliever who pitched the eighth inning finish the game in each of the last two outings, with Erasmo Ramirez the latest pitcher to do so. Ramirez may return to the rotation when Brad Boxberger returns to the bullpen. Meanwhile, Xavier Cedeno was seen warming up for the ninth, and given that Danny Farquhar has made two straight 7th-inning appearances with the Rays trailing, it seems that Cedeno is being trusted with higher-leverage situations in the early going. Until Boxberger returns from injury, it looks like Kevin Cash will keep his promise to play matchups, which means we will be monitoring the Rays bullpen closely for the next few weeks.

Updated hierarchy: *Colome | Cedeno | Farquhar.
* = closer-by-committee

April 6, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays – Alex Colome didn’t relinquish the lead in the Rays’ committee on Tuesday, although he did get some help from the Chase Utley Rule. Colome also threw 34 pitches over two innings, so don’t expect him to pitch on Wednesday.

Hierarchy remains: *Colome | Farquhar | Cedeno.
* = closer-by-committee

March 29, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays – A lengthy profile published recently in the Tampa Bay Times includes the suggestion that Alex Colome “appears the first choice to fill in for Brad Boxberger” when the season starts. Danny Farquhar has had an excellent spring, but we’ve learned to trust the local beat writers when there hasn’t been an overt declaration from a manager. So we’ll bump Colome to the top of the committee until we hear more.

Updated hierarchy: *Colome | Farquhar | Cedeno.
* = closer-by-committee

March 25, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays – Danny Farquhar has had a strong spring, including a nice outing yesterday. But Alex Colome has done just fine himself, and neither reliever has distinguished himself in the race to replace the injured Brad Boxberger. However, the duo have distanced themselves from their nearest competition — Xavier Cedeno and Steve Geltz — both of whom are getting knocked around in spring. Unless your league is especially deep, these are probably the only two relievers worth owning for now.

Hierarchy remains: *Farquhar | Colome | Cedeno.
* = closer-by-committee

March 18, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays — Brad Boxberger will be out at least eight weeks after surgery on his abdominal muscles. Manager Kevin Cash would not name a closer, saying that the team would fill the role with a committee based on matchups and recent usage. Options in the ninth will include Danny Farquhar, Alex Colome, Xavier Cedeno, Steve Geltz, and Ryan Webb. Farquhar has experience closing for Seattle in 2013, while Colome has the best stuff and probably the highest upside. As the team’s top lefthander, Cedeno might get more than his share of chances too.

Updated hierarchy: *Farquhar | Colome | Cedeno.

February 29, 2016
Tampa Bay Rays — Brad Boxberger will hold onto the closer role he inherited last season, but with Jake McGee out of the picture, it’s the newly acquired Danny Farquhar who will be his chief assistant. Behind them are familiar names like Xavier Cedeno, Alex Colome, and Steve Geltz, although Enny Romero is a longshot worth watching.

Starting 2016 hierarchy: Boxberger | Farquhar | Cedeno.
Holds candidates: Farquhar, Cedeno, Geltz.

September 25, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Jake McGee, who had arthroscopic knee surgery in August, will be available to pitch Friday night. After throwing a 30-pitch simulated inning Wednesday, he arrived at the ballpark “feeling good” on Thursday. Meanwhile, Brad Boxberger picked up the save Thursday and has pitched in three straight. Could McGee get thrown into the fire right away?

Updated hierarchy: Boxberger | Cedeno | McGee.

September 22, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Xavier Cedeno returned to action on Sunday, and pitched again last night against the Red Sox. Cedeno had been nursing a strained oblique muscle since September 5, but with his bullpen brethren Alex Colome and Brandon Gomes both roughed up last night, we like Cedeno to slide right back into his first-in-line spot behind Brad Boxberger for the remainder of the season.

Updated hierarchy: Boxberger | Cedeno | Colome.

September 16, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays – As predicted in the Vulture Save Watch, a pooped Brad Boxberger got the night off, but it was Brandon Gomes who earned his first career save. Alex Colome pitched the 8th, but he faced the 3-4-5 hitters in the Yankees’ order. Colome is the man if Boxberger is unavailable, but by virtue of Tuesday’s save and Xavier Cedeno’s battle with left side tightness, Gomes slides into the Rays’ hierarchy.

Updated hierarchy: Boxberger | Colome | Gomes.

September 15, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays – Brad Boxberger imploded in dramatic fashion while trying to hold a 1-0 lead in the 9th inning against the Yankees last night. Following a game-tying double by Alex Rodriguez, Boxberger allowed a 3-run home run by #72 Slade Heathcott. With the Rays season all but lost, we expect Boxberger to continue to get save opportunities, but he has experienced a significant decline this season relative to his dominant 2014.

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | Colome | Cedeno.

August 23, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Alex Colome pitched a perfect eighth inning with the Rays down one run last night.  After the Rays scored two runs in the top of the ninth to take the lead, Colome came back out for the ninth and pitched another perfect inning to finish the game.  Brad Boxberger had thrown 33 pitches on Friday so even though it turned out to be a save opportunity, he was likely unavailable.  Colome has been impressive recently in relief, including striking out the side in Houston on just 10 pitches in the eighth inning a couple nights ago, and could be the guy when Boxberger is unavailable moving forward.

Updated hierarchy: Boxberger | Colome | Cedeno.

August 21, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Sometimes-closer Jake McGee has a torn meniscus and will miss the rest of the season after knee surgery. Xavier Cedeno and Steve Geltz will be Tampa’s next line of defense behind a shaky but secure Brad Boxberger (four blown saves, nine losses).

Updated hierarchy: Boxberger | Cedeno | Geltz.

August 20, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Brad Boxbgerger blew the save last night, and the Rays ended up losing in extra innings. However, his job just got a bit safer because primary set-up man Jake McGee was sent back to Tampa after tweaking his knee in a 33-pitch outing on Tuesday. He will be evaluated today, but Kevin Cash said he may not join the team until next week. Look for Xavier Cedeno and Steve Geltz to see some higher leverage spots while McGee is out, and check back to see how serious this injury is.

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | McGee | Cedeno.

August 12, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Kevin Cash got Brad Boxberger and Jake McGee some extra rest by using lefty Xavier Cedeno to pick up the save. The outing was Cedeno’s twelfth straight without a run allowed, and Cash has praised him as a “model of consistency.”

Updated hierarchy: Boxberger | McGee | Cedeno.

August 10, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Jake McGee picked up his 6th save of the year on Sunday, as Brad Boxberger got the night off after pitching in five of the previous seven games. McGee continues to have tremendous value in holds leagues and is only a Boxberger misstep or two away from full time closer role.

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | McGee | Geltz.

August 1, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — After all the rumors, the only Tampa reliever to get dealt at the deadline was Kevin Jepsen, who will head to the Twins. Steve Geltz (45 K in 48.2 IP, 0.88 WHIP) returns to the hierarchy at second in line. Jake McGee coughed up a lead in the eighth Friday night, but his role should remain secure.

Updated hierarchy: Boxberger | McGee | Geltz.

July 30, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays are all but out of the race this year, and have been floating Brad Boxberger’s name as a potential trade piece. Last night he was used for only the third time in a game the Rays were trailing, which may have been a last-chance audition before the trade deadline. While he’s in Tampa, he’s still the closer, but if he gets moved, Jake McGee would be worthy of an immediate add (if he’s not already taken).

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.

July 25, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Jake McGee earned his fifth save on Friday, in a game where Brad Boxberger did not appear. A McGee save by itself isn’t that unusual, but given the rumors swirling around all three members of the Tampa hierarchy, Friday could have been either an attempt to showcase the lefthander, who boasts 21 straight scoreless appearances, or an early look at life after a Boxberger trade.

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.

July 19, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Jake McGee picked up his 4th save of the season on Saturday and has not allowed a run in his last 18 appearances.  However, it was Brad Boxberger who pitched in the more important spot, as he faced the top of the order in the 8th inning.  Boxberger still appears to be the closer for the Rays but McGee could still see some save opportunities when Boxberger is needed before the 9th inning.

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.

July 11, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Brad Boxberger bounced back from losses in his past two appearances, including giving up a walk-off grand slam, to record his 21st save yesterday.  Boxberger owners were happy to see that his recent struggles don’t appear to have impacted his status as closer, but Jake McGee, and his sixteen straight scoreless appearances, is still lurking.

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.

June 27, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — After yet another conventional Jepsen-McGee-Boxberger use of the Tampa bullpen, we’re ready to pull the plug on the closer committee asterisk and acknowledge that Brad Boxberger has earned the job.

Updated hierarchy: Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.

June 24, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Brad Boxberger continues to be the most valuable member of the Rays’ bullpen, as he locked down his fourth straight save despite allowing a solo home run. We’ll keep the asterisk because manager Kevin Cash can go to Jake McGee or Kevin Jepsen at any point, but Boxberger is the man to own in Tampa.

Hierarchy remains: *Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.
* = closer-by-committee

June 21, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Brad Boxberger ran into a little trouble on Saturday night, loading the bases in the 9th, but he was able to get out of it without allowing any runs, and picked up his 18th save of the season in the process.  After recording no saves in the first half of June, Boxberger has now gotten saves in each of the past three games.  Manager Kevin Cash has other good options to close out games with Jake McGee and Kevin Jepsen, but Boxberger seems to be re-asserting himself as the guy after a shaky start to the month.

Hierarchy remains: *Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.
* = closer-by-committee

June 19, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — The committee chugs along in Tampa, where Brad Boxberger earned the save on Thursday night. Boxberger allowed a hit and struck out two in a complete ninth for the save, preceded by Jake McGee in a scoreless eighth, and Kevin Jepsen pitching around two hits and a walk in the seventh. We expect this committee to remain for the bulk of the season, with Boxberger still most likely to collect saves.

Hierarchy remains: *Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.
* = closer-by-committee

June 15, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays – Kevin Jepsen picked up another save for the Rays on Sunday. Brad Boxberger had thrown 28 pitches Saturday, while Jake McGee had pitched in three of the last four. Still, the way this bullpen is managed, any of these three guys could get a save on any given night at this point.

Hierarchy remains: *Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.
* = closer-by-committee

June 14, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Jake McGee recorded his third save of the season on Saturday after Brad Boxberger pitched the 8th inning.  Boxberger replaced starter Chris Archer after he gave up a leadoff walk to start the 8th.  After giving up the tying homerun to the first batter he faced, Boxberger was able to get out of the inning without anymore runs.  Kevin Cash had good things to say about him since he went through the heart of the White Sox order to finish the 8th and helped them win the game.  This looks like a full committee right now, with the Rays using Boxberger in big spots before the 9th if they need to.  We will leave Boxberger as head of the committee for now, but if McGee gets the next save opportunity, he would likely move to the top.

Hierarchy remains: *Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.

June 13, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — As foretold by the Vulture Save Watch, Jake McGee was summoned for the save on Friday night, allowing Brad Boxberger to take a night off.

Hierarchy remains: *Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.

June 12, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — It was a bad seventh inning for the Rays bullpen Thursday night. Up 2-1, manager Kevin Cash went with Kevin Jepsen, who allowed the tying run before getting yanked. Brad Boxberger came into the game with men on first and third with one out and the 1-2-3 hitters due up for the Angels — arguably the highest leverage spot in the game, which is how Kevin Cash has said he’d handle Boxberger’s use in the past. Boxberger allowed an RBI groundout and an RBI double, allowing two inherited runs to score before he was pulled. Jepsen and Boxberger each recorded only one out, and the Rays went on to lose 6-2. With Boxberger’s recent ineffectiveness (6.1 IP, 5 ER since May 26) and his use in non-save situations, we’re going to slap the closer-by-committee tag back on Tampa for the time being.

Updated hierarchy: *Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.

June 11, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Jake McGee finally earned that elusive first save of 2015, allowing one hit and striking out two in an uneventful 9th inning. Brad Boxberger pitched the 8th, facing the 2-3-4 hitters in the Angels’ lineup. It was Boxberger’s first appearance in a week after a battle with triceps soreness, and he arguably pitched in a higher-leverage spot given whom he faced. Since a blown save on May 26, McGee has allowed just one hit and lowered his ERA from 8.10 to 3.00. He slides ahead of Kevin Jepsen for now, but those two may be used interchangeably.

Updated hierarchy: Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.

June 8, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays – After a 32-pitch outing on Wednesday, Brad Boxberger has been dealing with some triceps soreness. The Rays don’t expect it to be serious, and Boxberger believes he’ll be back on Tuesday. In the meantime, Kevin Jepsen picked up another save.

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | Jepsen | McGee.

June 6, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Kevin Cash wanted to give Brad Boxberger another day off after his 32-pitch outing on Wednesday, so Kevin Jepsen got the call for a second straight night. He gave up a leadoff triple, but wriggled out of trouble impressively to pick up his third save.

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | Jepsen | McGee.

June 5, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Kevin Jepsen — and not Jake McGee — pitched the 9th and earned the save against the Seattle Mariners, his second of the season. Brad Boxberger was unavailable after throwing 32 pitches in a rough outing Wednesday night. McGee pitched a scoreless eighth inning Thursday, but hasn’t had a save opportunity since he returned from the disabled list. We’re going to slide Jepsen to the first-in-line slot for the time being.

Updated hierarchy: Boxberger | Jepsen | McGee.

June 4, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays – Brad Boxberger was brought in with two outs in the 8th to protect a lead, which he did, but then blew the save in the 9th inning. He picked up the win after the Rays scored in the 10th, and Steven Geltz secured up his second save of the year with Jake McGee and Kevin Jepsen having already pitched. Boxberger has been excellent, despite a recent rough stretch, and his primary competition, Jake McGee, was used in the 7th inning last night, so his job is probably safe for now.

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.

June 1, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays – If there was ever a time to give someone other than Brad Boxberger a save opportunity, it was earlier this week, after he had consecutive bad outings. Instead, Kevin Cash went back to the righty immediately for the next two save chances, and Box converted them both. We know the Rays have said otherwise all season, but until they actually use someone else in the 9th, we’re finally removing the committee asterisk.

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.

May 28, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — After converting nine straight save opportunities, Brad Boxberger has taken losses in his last two appearances. Last night he gave up three runs on two walks and a Nelson Cruz moonshot. Boxberger has been great right up until this recent rough patch, and his primary competitor Jake McGee is coming off his own disaster outing on Tuesday, so its unlikely that he would slide out of his spot as the top guy in the committee just yet. However, if he blows a save in his next loss, it could be McGee getting the next look.

Hierarchy remains: *Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.
* closer-by-committee

May 20, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Jake McGee grabbed his first hold of 2015, setting up Brad Boxberger for his 11th save of the season. McGee now has four strikeouts in two innings since his return, and he is the sensible candidate to pitch directly ahead of Brad Boxberger. However, manager Kevin Cash has repeatedly reminded us that he’s playing matchups, meaning McGee and Boxberger can swap spots on a whim.

Hierarchy remains: *Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.
* closer-by-committee

May 15, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Matt Andriese had a rare four-inning save Thursday night against the Yankees, before getting sent down to make room for the returning Jake McGee. Brad Boxberger (2-1, 1.29 ERA, 10 saves in 10 chances, 12.86 K/9) has been excellent in McGee’s absence, so for now, Kevin Cash will play the matchups. McGee could grab the job for good later this summer, however.

Updated hierarchy: *Boxberger | McGee | Jepsen.
* closer-by-committee

May 7, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Jake McGee may be ready to rejoin the team as early as this weekend, but manager Kevin Cash indicated that when McGee returns he “won’t just make him the ninth-inning guy.” This isn’t the news that anyone who stashed McGee on the DL was hoping to hear, but it is not too surprising. Brad Boxberger has been extremely effective at the top of the committee, and Kevin Cash has already signaled that he will use his best relievers in the most important spots.

Hierarchy remains: *Boxberger | Jepsen | Geltz.

May 2, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays – Steve Geltz struck out two hitters in a perfect 7th inning ahead of Kevin Jepsen and Brad Boxberger. His impressive outing comes on the back of an even better one on Wednesday, when he struck out five consecutive Yankees. The righty now has 16 Ks in 12.2 IPs, to go along with a tidy ERA (2.84) and WHIP (0.87).

Updated hierarchy: *Boxberger | Jepsen | Geltz.

May 1, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays – Rays reliever Jake McGee said he “felt good” in a rehab outing Wednesday allowing no runs, hits or walks in an inning of work at Single-A. McGee believes he’ll pitch again for Single-A on Friday or Saturday before beginning a rehab stint with Triple-A Durham. If all goes well, he will certainly toss his name into Tampa Bay’s late-innings hat.

Hierarchy remains: *Boxberger | Jepsen | Frieri.
* closer-by-committee

April 30, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays –Ernesto Frieri picked up the save in a 13-inning game after committee colleagues Kevin Jepsen and Brad Boxberger had already pitched.

Hierarchy remains: *Boxberger | Jepsen | Frieri.
* closer-by-committee

April 25, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Matt Andriese gave up his spot in the rotation to Drew Smyly today, but wound up earning a three-inning blowout save instead — and his first Closer Monkey reference. I’d take that deal. While we’re here, we should mention that Jake McGee will throw a bullpen session tomorrow and, if all goes well, will start rehab with the High-A Stone Cutters Crabs.

Hierarchy remains: *Boxberger | Jepsen | Frieri.
* closer-by-committee

April 23, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays – Manager Kevin Cash earned a lot of praise Wednesday night for his willingness to use closer Brad Boxberger in the seventh inning of a tie game. The move paid off, as Boxberger struck out the heart of the Red Sox order. This led to Steven Geltz earning his first Major League save. Cash is of the mindset that his best reliever should pitch the most volatile situation, and this means that we’re back to calling this a committee for the time being. Boxberger is still the clear favorite for saves, but don’t be surprised if he is used in the seventh or eighth depending on the situation.

Hierarchy remains: *Boxberger | Jepsen | Frieri.
* closer-by-committee

April 21, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays – Jake McGee is on his way to the Durham Bulls to begin a rehab assignment after throwing a successful bullpen session on Sunday. Brad Boxberger has pitched well in the closer role to start the season, but expect McGee could potentially compete for save opportunities as soon as he completes his stint in Triple-A.

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | Jepsen | Frieri.

April 19, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Grant Balfour gave up 3 runs last night, and the Rays decided they have seen enough.  Balfour was designated for assignment after the game.

Updated hierarchy: Boxberger | Jepsen | Frieri.

April 17, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Injured closer Jake McGee, working his way back after arthroscopic elbow surgery in December, tossed an inning in an extended spring training game on Thursday. The Rays will decide the next step in McGee’s recovery process on Friday; he may return to the big club within two weeks.

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | Jepsen | Balfour.

April 15, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays – Brad Boxberger had pitched four of the last five days, and despite an off day on Sunday, was held out for Tuesday’s tilt. Kevin Jepsen earned the Vulture Save in Boxberger’s stead.

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | Jepsen | Balfour.

April 12, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays – Ernesto Frieri cleaned up an 8th inning mess and then stayed on for the 9th after the Rays tacked on a run. Frieri allowed a run himself, but picked up a vulture save.

Hierarchy remains: Boxberger | Jepsen | Balfour.

April 11, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Grant Balfour entered in the fifth inning of Friday’s game with the Rays down seven, a solid indication that he’s not the first choice for high-leverage setup work in Tampa. Kevin Cash has also shown no indication that he’s using a closer committee, with Brad Boxberger getting enough endgame opportunities to shed his asterisk. Boxberger should have another three weeks in the role before Jake McGee returns.

Updated hierarchy: Boxberger | Jepsen | Balfour.

March 29, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays have several options to close while Jake McGee is out.  Grant Balfour should be ready for the start of the season after missing a couple weeks due to the passing away of his father.  However, it looks like Brad Boxberger will see the most save chances.  Boxberger had over 100 strikeouts last year and could thrive in the closer’s role to start the season.

Updated hierarchy: Boxberger* | Balfour | Jepsen.
* closer-by-committee

March 26, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Grant Balfour made his first appearance of the spring on Monday and expects to be ready for Opening Day. All three of Tampa’s current top relievers allowed a run in the game. Jake McGee is throwing curveballs again and should be back to closing in late April or early May.

Hierarchy remains: Balfour | Boxberger | Jepsen.

March 18, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays – In the race to close games in Tampa’s sans-McGee bullpen, Grant Balfour had a few distinct advantages. He has the most experience in the role, he had expressed an interest in it, and most importantly, Kevin Cash had mentioned him as a possibility. But Balfour has missed the last few weeks of spring training following the death of his father, while Brad Boxberger has come out of the gate with three scoreless innings. With his strong start, we think Boxberger has pulled even with Balfour, and suspect the Opening Day closer will be largely determined by which player looks better over the next couple weeks.

Hierarchy remains: Balfour | Boxberger | Jepsen.

March 6, 2015
Tampa Bay Rays — Joe Maddon is gone, which perhaps means a more stable bullpen in 2015. Jake McGee will lead that group when he returns from elbow surgery, as he impressed as the closer last year when he finally got the role for good. Grant Balfour struggled mightily last season but still wants the closer job. He’ll have to compete with newly-acquired Kelvin Jepsen and Ernesto Frieri, as well as Brad Boxberger, who had a strong 2014. In addition, Jeff Beliveau had 28 strikeouts in 24 innings last season, and might be the only lefty on the team’s Opening Day roster.

Starting 2015 hierarchy: Balfour | Boxberger | Jepsen.
Holds candidates: Boxberger, Beliveau.

September 15, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – After Jake McGee blew the save in the 9th, Jeff Beliveau picked up the scraps once the Rays re-took the lead in the 10th. It was Beliveau’s first save.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Boxberger | Balfour.

September 13, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays — Grant Balfour pitched a perfect 9th inning last night to record his first save since July 1st.  Jake McGee threw a perfect 8th inning and should continue to see the majority of save chances.  However, with Joel Peralta giving up 5 runs in his past two outings, Balfour could see more time in the later innings.

Updated hierarchy: McGee | Boxberger | Balfour.

August 25, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – After Jake McGee pitched a scoreless 8th and 9th inning for the Rays, Brad Boxberger picked up the save after the Rays took the lead in the 10th. We said a little while back that McGee was getting 86% of the Rays save chances — that still seems about right.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Boxberger | Peralta.

August 20, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays — Lately it has seemed that Grant Balfour pitches only when the Rays are losing. Though that wasn’t the case when he entered the game on Tuesday night, it certainly was when he left, three runs and no outs later. Of Balfour’s 14 pitches, only two were strikes — and one of those was lined for a hard-luck triple. Grant’s struggles (he leads all relievers in walks) make Joel Peralta relevant again, if only by default.

Updated hierarchy: McGee | Boxberger | Peralta.

August 9, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – Jake McGee pitched the 8th inning last night with a one run lead and the Rays went to Brad Boxberger for the save in the 9th.  Boxberger wasn’t able to convert the save, as he allowed a run for the first time since June 27th.  The Rays scored a run in the top of the 10th, and again they sent Boxberger out there to protect a one run lead.  This time he threw a perfect inning to finish the game.  McGee is still the closer but it looks like Boxberger could still see an occasional save chance.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Boxberger | Balfour.

August 2, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – In his second appearance since coming off the DL, Joel Peralta struck out the side on only 10 pitches.  McGee seems to have established himself as the Rays’ closer, but Joel Peralta could work his way back towards the set-up role with more outings like that.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Boxberger | Balfour.

July 29, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – After notching his fifth post-All-Star-Break save on Monday, Jake McGee has now closed out Tampa victories in six of his last seven appearances. Will he get every opportunity for the surging Rays the rest of the way? With Joe Maddon around, probably not. But if he’s getting 86% of the save chances, that’s good enough to kick our closer-by-committee asterisk for the time being.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Boxberger | Balfour.

July 27, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays — Brad Boxberger pitched a scoreless 8th inning and Jake McGee picked up his 11th save of the season last night.  Boxberger has allowed zero runs in July and has recorded a win, a save, and six holds this month.  Jake McGee has gotten the last three save opportunities for the Rays and has converted each one.

Updated hierarchy: McGee | Boxberger | Balfour.

July 24, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays — Brad Boxberger to Jake McGee: two perfect innings with five strikeouts. A fella could get used to this. And get well soon, Joel Peralta; hope you don’t have that nasty chikungunya virus.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Balfour | Boxberger.

July 21, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – We were again getting close to removing the asterisk next to Jake McGee’s name — it seemed like he’d finally been established as the one and only 9th inning guy in Tampa. But yesterday, Joe Maddon decided to use him in the 8th, and instead sent Grant Balfour out for the 9th. Balfour struggled, and eventually had to be pulled for Kirby Yates, who picked up his first career save. So we’re still in committee mode here, though McGee is still getting the vast majority of save chances.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Balfour | Boxberger.

July 15, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – You could really play buy or sell with the Rays’ bullpen in the middle of the game thanks to Joe Maddon’s hijinks. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: None

July 14, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays had a nice, civilized 9th inning on Sunday, with Jake McGee taking over for a stellar David Price and pitching a 1-2-3 inning with 2 Ks. Every time this happens, we hope it’s a harbinger of some normalcy in Maddon-land, and thanks to the All Star break, we’ll be able to live with that blissful vision for the next four days.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Balfour | Boxberger.

July 12, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays — Grant Balfour came on for the 9th inning of a tie game yesterday and promptly gave up three runs, while only recording one out.  Joel Peralta also gave up two runs in his last time out.  Meanwhile, Brad Boxberger pitched a scoreless inning last night and hasn’t given up a run in his last 9.1 innings of work.  Boxberger has already received one save in the Rays crazy committee and could see more chances if Balfour and Peralta continue to struggle.

Updated Hierarchy: McGee | Balfour | Boxberger.

July 10, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays — Time for our daily look at the bullpen you don’t want anything to do with! Use of would-be closer in the eighth inning? Check. Five pitchers called on to get the final seven outs? Check! Rookie Kirby Yates brought in at the highest-leverage moment to yield a game-winning home run? CHECK! The Rays have Thursday off, giving Joe Maddon the chance to take a fresh look at all of his bullpen options, then return to using them in baffling and inconsistent ways.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Balfour | Peralta.

July 9, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays — After using each of the three other members of the Tampa closer committee in turn, Joe Maddon has now called on Jake McGee in three straight save situations. McGee didn’t make it easy on Tuesday, giving up two runs in the ninth, but he got out of trouble in the end. It’s still a committee until mad genius Joe Maddon says otherwise, but McGee remains the best guy to own.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Balfour | Peralta.

July 5, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays —   Yesterday it was Jake McGee’s turn again in the Rays’ committee and he didn’t disappoint, pitching a scoreless 9th for his 4th save of the season.  However, the most important work out of the bullpen came from Brad Boxberger.  Boxberger, who picked up the save on Wednesday, came on with the bases loaded and nobody out in the 6th inning.  He was able to limit the damage to one run by getting a double play and a strikeout.  Boxberger came back out for the 7th and struck out 2 batters in a perfect inning of work.  This is still very much a committee, and Joel Peralta pitched a scoreless 8th yesterday so it is hard to put Boxberger on the hierarchy yet, but with 51 Ks in 33.1 innings, he could move ahead of Balfour and Peralta as the primary righty in the committee if he continues to pitch well.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Balfour | Peralta.

July 3, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays — It’s unclear precisely what good deed Brad Boxberger performed to get the latest nod in the ninth from mystic philosopher-king Joe Maddon. All we know for sure is that if you want a reliable source of saves, Tampa relievers aren’t for you.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Balfour | Peralta.

July 2, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays — Oh, Joe Maddon. No one was surprised to see him call on Jake McGee to face the Yankees’ 2-3-4 hitters in a one-run eighth. A few people were surprised when he summoned Grant Balfour to nail down the save with the same score in the ninth. But everyone was surprised when Maddon revealed his reasoning in a postgame statement and tweet: he was rewarding Balfour for the good “karma” he sensed as the embattled reliever walked his octogenarian Aussie grandmother through the lobby of the team hotel. Some Rays fans called the move brave, but honestly, with the way the Yankees have been hitting lately, Granny B could have taken the mound herself.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Balfour | Peralta.

July 1, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – Every time we think Jake McGee has creeped closer to claiming the ninth-inning duties for the Rays, Joe Maddon reminds us that he truly believes in his committee. On Monday, he had McGee face the Yankees’ 2-6 hitters in the eighth inning before allowing Joel Peralta to pitch to the bottom of the order in the ninth. His plan was foiled, however, when a Brian Roberts’ solo shot off Peralta tied the game. It’s clear that Maddon wanted his best reliever to face the Yankees’ best hitters, and it’s thinking like that which will keep the Rays’ committee alive and well.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Balfour | Peralta.

June 29, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – Jake McGee picked up his second save in two days on Saturday.  Grant Balfour worked the 8th inning ahead of McGee in game 1 of the doubleheader on Friday and did it again yesterday.  It is also worth noting that Joel Peralta gave up 2 runs in the 7th inning with the Rays losing in game 2 of the doubleheader on Friday.  McGee looks to be moving ahead of the other members of the Rays committee and could be establishing himself as the primary closer.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Balfour | Peralta.

June 23, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – It seems pretty common for managers to declare “Committee!” after their stopper proves ineffective, but Joe Maddon is actually following through on it. There have been four saves since Grant Balfour lost his full time job, and Balfour, Juan Carlos Oviedo, Jake McGee, and Joel Peralta have all gotten one of them. (Peralta picked his up on Sunday.) We still like McGee the best of the four, but it may take some time for someone to distinguish themselves.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Balfour | Peralta.

June 20, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – The best thing Grant Balfour has going for him is a manager hellbent on getting him back to the 9th inning.  But he’s also put together a modest line since being demoted two weeks ago (4.2 IPs, 1 ER, 3 H, 5 Ks, and 1 BB), and for a guy who spent much of the year with a 6+ ERA and more walks than strikeouts, this constitutes tremendous progress.  Last night, he got the 9th inning in a 5-run game (pitching behind Joel Peralta, who got the 8th), and struck out the side.

Updated hierarchy: McGee | Balfour | Peralta.

June 17, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – Committees can be maddening for fantasy owners, and Joe Maddon hasn’t helped matters by the way he has gone about the late innings. Joel Peralta pitched the seventh before giving way to Grant Balfour, who struggled through one out of the eighth. Jake McGee, who appeared to be the leading candidate for saves, was called upon to bail him out and instead allowed an inherited runner to score, tying the game. The Rays regained the lead in the bottom half of the inning and it was Juan Carlos Oviedo who picked up his first save since he was Leo Nunez in 2011. After the game, Maddon insisted that there’s “no need” to settle on one closer, and that it’ll be the opponents’ batting order that dictates who enters the game. We still think McGee is at the head of the committee, but at this point it really could be anyone who gets the call at any particular moment.

Hierarchy remains: McGee | Peralta | Balfour.

June 16, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – It’s been obvious that Jake McGee has been the best arm in the Rays bullpen this year.  But even when Grant Balfour began to struggle, there were various reasons — arbitration considerations, usage, his left-handedness — to think that he wasn’t going to be the first man to get a save chance in Tampa’s new committee.  (And, he wasn’t.)  But despite the lack of save chances, the stars have been aligning for McGee ever since the Rays made the switch.  He pitched the 9th inning of a 1-run loss — behind Joel Peralta — in the first day after the Rays declared a committee last week.  Grant Balfour picked up that weird, 7-out save on Wednesday, but Joe Maddon went out of his way after the game to point out that McGee was unavailable.  Two nights ago, he likely would’ve gotten a save chance, except that the Rays scored a bunch of runs in the 9th.  And yesterday, after David Price turned in 8 solid innings, it was McGee who closed the door in the 9th.  There are still way too many dynamics in play to anoint McGee the new full time closer, and after all, this was just his first save.  But with that finally out of the way, we’re inching him to the head of the Tampa committee.

Updated hierarchy: McGee | Peralta | Balfour.

June 14, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays used Joel Peralta in the 8th inning last night with a 3 run lead.  They added 2 more runs in the top of the 9th so there was no save opportunity for anyone.  Jake McGee did end up coming on for the last out of the game and likely would have gotten the save if the Rays had not tacked on more runs.  Peralta was warming up for the save in the 9th the other night so it seems like this is a true committee.  We still like Peralta but we would also not be surprised if McGee saw the next save opportunity.

Updated hierarchy: Peralta | McGee | Balfour.

June 12, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays — Huh. In a one-run game, Joe Maddon summoned Juan Carlos Oviedo in the sixth, watched him get one out and hit a batter in the seventh, brought in Cesar Ramos as a LOOGY, and then let deposed closer Grant Balfour finish the inning. When the Rays scored two in the bottom of the seventh, Maddon sensed an opportunity to help the embattled Australian regain some confidence — so out he came to pitch a perfect eighth. And though Joel Peralta was up and warming prior to the ninth inning, it was Balfour who finished the game, earning a surprising 2.1-inning save. After the game, Maddon explained that the closer committee is still in effect, but it seems he’d like the Goose Gossage of New South Wales back in the role as soon as possible.

Updated hierarchy: Peralta | Balfour | McGee.

June 11, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays — It’s fun to talk about, but until the team finally wins a game, the Tampa closer committee will remain a matter for philosophers, theologians, and Seminole medicine men. Juan Carlos Oviedo might get the first shot at breaking the curse tomorrow, since Joel Peralta was used Tuesday in a high-leverage spot in the eighth, and Jake McGee followed him with a 20-pitch ninth. If that happens, we can’t rule out the possibility that Oviedo takes the job and runs with it, perhaps earning up to one save per month for the flailing Rays. Watch out for Kirby Yates as a dark horse candidate too; he’s been a lights-out closer for the AAA Durham Bulls.

Hierarchy remains: Peralta | McGee | Oviedo.

June 9, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – The Rays will go with a closer-by-committee for the time being, announced Joe Maddon this morning.  Grant Balfour will be part of that committee, but as mentioned in our previous update, we like Joel Peralta to get the next save chance, with Jake McGee and Juan Carlos Oviedo also involved.  Balfour will have to work his way back to the 9th inning, which seems unlikely given his terrible ratios thus far.

Updated hierarchy: Peralta | McGee | Oviedo.

June 9, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – Grant Balfour gave up five more runs on Sunday and now has a 6.46 ERA. Joe Maddon wouldn’t say if Balfour had finally lost the job that he should’ve lost a long time ago, but it seems silly to keep running him out there. Until we see evidence that Balfour has lost the job, all we can do is speculate, but the three candidates to take over the job right now are Joel Peralta, Jake McGee, and Juan Carlos Oviedo. Oviedo (the former Leo Nunez) had a better chance at the job before allowing a run in three consecutive outings last week. McGee clearly has the best stuff, averaging more than a strikeout per inning and currently rocking a 1.59 ERA, but just three days ago, he was pitching in the 6th inning. That leaves the veteran Peralta, who despite a rough start to the season, has continued to pitch the 8th inning and has managed to hold the opposition scoreless in 13 of his last 14 outings. Stressing that we don’t have any hints from inside the clubhouse about what happens next, we still think Peralta has a narrow lead in the race to replace Balfour.

Hierarchy remains: Balfour | Peralta | McGee.

May 26, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – Joel Peralta has had his problems with the long ball this year, which has led to a high ERA for the usually-reliable veteran, but despite Jake McGee’s dominance, Peralta has consistently been the 8th inning guy all year long.  However, McGee owners had reasons to feel optimistic yesterday, as Peralta, for the first time, was summoned in the 7th, rather than the 8th.  He gave up his fifth home run of the season — a 2-run shot to Jonny Gomes — and saw his ERA climb to 5.24.  Though we’re not ready to deem McGee the heir apparent just yet, any small shift in the Rays pen is worth mentioning, given Grant Balfour’s struggles.

Hierarchy remains: Balfour | Peralta | McGee.

May 23, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – We’ve mentioned Grant Balfour’s ratios here before, but it truly is incredible to see a pitcher with peripherals this bad continue to get the ball in the 9th inning. After walking two (and getting annoyed with the crowd for booing him) in a blown save on Thursday afternoon, Balfour now has 18 BBs and just 15 Ks in 18.1 innings pitched. He’s already on the Hot Seat, though he might hang on to his job in part because the Rays ended up winning their game in extras. But Joel Peralta — and maybe Jake McGee — is definitely worth a speculative pick up at this point.

Hierarchy remains: Balfour | Peralta | McGee

May 17, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – Grant Balfour picked up his 8th save by pitching a perfect 9th inning last night, just one night after being removed from a save opportunity without recording an out.  Manager Joe Maddon said that Balfour is still his closer.  Balfour may have given himself a little more leeway with his outing yesterday, but we still think Maddon will have to think about changing things up if Balfour has another outing like Thursday.

Hierarchy remains: Balfour | Peralta | McGee.

May 16, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – Summoned to protect a three-run lead, Grant Balfour walked the first two batters he faced (the 8 and 9 hitters) before allowing an RBI single.  Balfour was then yanked by Joe Maddon, and watched from the clubhouse as Brad Boxberger gave up a walk off 3-run HR to Mike Trout.  Balfour wasn’t happy about being removed, but the quick hook shows how little trust Maddon has in him at this point.  Already on our Hot Seat, Balfour (15.1 IPs, 6.46 ERA, 1.63 WHIP, 11 Ks, 14 BBs) is probably just one more blown save from losing his job — if he hasn’t done so already.

Hierarchy remains: Balfour | Peralta | McGee.

April 26, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – Grant Balfour gave up a walk off grand slam last night, and while that’s all well and terrible, we’re actually even more worried about his ratios so far this year — 10.1 innings with 7 Ks and 9 BBs.  There’s no shortage of arms in the Tampa bullpen: Joel Peralta has been as reliable as ever, Jake McGee has a 0.90 ERA — heck, there was even a Leo Nunez Juan Carlos Oviedo sighting this week.  With Balfour’s health in question even before the year began, we have to think he’s on a short leash.  Grant Balfour to Hot Seat.

April 14, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays – A day after Jake McGee got an 8th hold inning for the Rays, Heath Bell was called upon to pitch in the 7th of a game that the Rays were losing by four.  Bell didn’t help matters, allowing two earned runs and raising his season ERA to 5.40.  His peripherals aren’t great so far, either, and at age 36, he’s got to start proving that he still belongs.  Hierarchy change: Jake McGee to 2nd in line, replacing Heath Bell.

March 13, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays — The irascible Australian Grant Balfour, rejected by Baltimore, will be out to prove something to his division rivals. Ranked #14 in our preseason closer rankings.

March 11, 2014
Tampa Bay Rays –Almost an Oriole, Grant Balfour returns to the Rays this season as the team’s closer. He was 38-of-41 in save opportunities last season in Oakland and will replace Fernando Rodney, who departed for Seattle. The Rays feel they have the best bullpen in baseball, and they have plenty of options behind Balfour. Juan Carlos Oviedo, Heath Bell, Joel Peralta and Jake McGee all figure to factor in Joe Maddon’s late-inning plans. Bell struggled last season, but if Peralta struggles Bell may see his more high-leverage time. Starting 2014 hierarchy: Closer – Grant Balfour, Set-up – Joel Peralta, 2nd in line – Heath Bell.

September 25, 2013
Tampa Bay Rays — Jake Odorizzi picked up a three-inning save on Tuesday as the Rays shut out the Yankees. No hierarchy change.

September 24, 2013
Tampa Bay Rays — After nearly three months on the disabled list, All-Star set-up man Jesse Crain was finally activated on Monday. If he’s truly healthy, he should soon pass Jake McGee as Tampa’s top seventh-inning option. No hierarchy change.

September 4, 2013
Tampa Bay Rays — Starter Roberto Hernandez picked up the first save of his eight-year major league career with 3.2 scoreless innings in a 7-1 win. No hierarchy change.

August 28, 2013
Tampa Bay Rays — After Joel Peralta struck out the side in the eighth inning, Fernando Rodney entered and blew his eighth save of the season. The Rays fell to 3-12 in games where they have blown leads in the seventh inning or later. With the Rays in the heart of a pennant race, they can’t afford to keep losing this way. Fernando Rodney to Hot Seat.

July 30, 2013
Tampa Bay Rays — The Rays took a gamble on Jesse Crain; if he’s able to return from his injury with the same form he exhibited earlier in the season, he’ll be in the thick of the bullpen mix with Joel Peralta and Jake McGee down the stretch. Hierarchy change: Jesse Crain to 2nd in line (DL).

July 17, 2013
Tampa Bay Rays — Fernando Rodney isn’t the most reliable closer in the league, but the Rays are still likely to stand pat at this year’s trade deadline. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: None.

July 12, 2013
Tampa Bay Rays – Fernando Rodney had the night off on Thursday, and Jake McGee who got the save in his absence.  The opp likely would’ve gone to Joel Peralta, but Peralta had to be summoned in the 8th inning to bail the Rays out of a sticky situation.  But McGee has been pitching very well lately, having only allowed 3 runs in his last 24.2 innings, and his usage over the past week suggest that he’s basically sharing the set-up role with Peralta at this point.  No hierarchy change.

June 1, 2013
Tampa Bay Rays – Cesar Ramos went three innings for the save on Friday.  No hierarchy change.

May 26, 2013
Tampa Bay Rays – Joe Maddon on Saturday gave Fernando Rodney yet another vote of confidence after the closer’s fifth blown save of the year.  But with his ERA now at 6.05 on the season, Rodney remains on the hottest of Hot Seats, and Joel Peralta’s continued efficiency makes him a great speculative add, if he’s available.  No hierarchy change.

May 18, 2013
Tampa Bay Rays – As predicted in yesterday’s vulture save watch, Joel Peralta recorded the save last night.  Fernando Rodney was warming up in the 9th but Joe Madden did not need to bring him in as Peralta pitched a perfect 9th.  No hierarchy change.

May 17, 2013
Tampa Bay Rays – After another dreadful outing, Fernando Rodney now has a 5.28 ERA and 3 blown saves in 10 tries this year.  Joe Madden gave him a vote of confidence after the game, saying: “I’m not really concerned yet. I’m not running away from Fernando. We’ll get him right.”  We are, though, especially with reliable set-up man Joel Peralta (1.96 ERA) having another solid season.  Fernando Rodney to Hot Seat. 

May 13, 2013
Tampa Bay Rays – Jake McGee picked up his second 7th-inning hold in the past week on Sunday.  McGee has an extremely high ERA, but it’s mostly due to one horrible outing he had in early May.  On the rare night when both Fernando Rodney and Joel Peralta were unavailable, he’d likely get the save opp.  Hierarchy change: Jake McGee to 2nd in line, replacing Jamey Wright. 

May 2, 2013
Tampa Bay Rays – An ugly April for the Rays bullpen has spilled into May, as 7th inning man Jake McGee gave up 5 runs on Wednesday against the Royals.  McGee’s ERA jumped from 6.48 to 11.00 after the shellacking, and with hard-throwing righty Kyle Farnsworth struggling, the Rays may have to start leaning on journeyman Jamey Wright to get a few high-leverage outs late in games.  Wright has been one of the few reliable arms in Tampa, with a 1.54 ERA in 12 games so far.  Hierarchy change: Jamey Wright to 2nd in line, replacing Jake McGee.

April 11, 2013
Tampa Bay Rays – Jake McGee pitched the 7th inning last night, a role he has settled into nicely.  Kyle Farnsworth, meanwhile, hasn’t pitched in many high-leverage situations in the early going.  Hierarchy change: Jake McGee to 2nd in line, replacing Kyle Farnsworth.

February 24, 2013
Tampa Bay Rays – Starting 2013 hierarchy: Closer- Fernando Rodney, Set-up- Joel Peralta, 2nd in line- Kyle Farnsworth.

July 13, 2012
Tampa Bay Rays – Fernando Rodney’s dominance has been one of the biggest surprises of the season, and with Kyle Farnsworth recently returned from the DL, the Rays are unlikely to add any bullpen arms. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: None.

July 1, 2012
Tampa Bay Rays – Kyle Farnsworth pitched his first inning of year on Saturday, logging a scoreless frame in the 7th inning. The former closer immediately slots in to the Rays late-inning hierarchy, and could push Joel Peralta for the 8th inning role. Hierarchy change: Kyle Farnsworth to 2nd in line, replacing Jake McGee.

June 14, 2012
Tampa Bay Rays – Jake McGee pitched a perfect inning in a losing effort on Wednesday, lowering his ERA to 1.69. JP Howell, meanwhile, has not rediscovered the velocity that made him such a dynamic reliever two years ago and has struggled, particularly in recent weeks. Hierarchy change: Jake McGee to 2nd in line, replacing JP Howell.

May 5, 2012
Tampa Bay Rays – Joel Peralta recorded a one-out save on Friday. As noted in the vulture save watch, Fernando Rodney had been used a lot lately, so he was given a night off. No hierarchy change.

April 20, 2012
Tampa Bay Rays – JP Howell pitched the 7th inning yesterday while the game was still close. Joe Maddon seems more willing to use Howell to pitch to both righties and lefties, while Jake McGee has settled into more of a LOOGY role. Hierarchy change: JP Howell to 2nd in line, replacing Jake McGee.

April 9, 2012
Tampa Bay Rays- Fernando Rodney closed out Sunday’s game against the Yankees, notching his second save in as many days. It seems that Joel Peralta’s leash was at short as it could be, as Rodney will close until Kyle Farnsworth returns from the DL. Hierarchy change: Fernando Rodney to Closer, Joel Peralta to Set-up.

April 8, 2012
Tampa Bay Rays- Joel Peralta was brought in to stop the Yankees rally yesterday, but only faced two hitters, the second of whom hit a HR off him. Jake McGee was then brought in for one batter before Fernando Rodney came in to close it out. Based on Peralta’s success filling in as closer last year, he figures to get another shot, but could be in danger of losing the job should he falter again. Joel Peralta to Hot Seat.

April 5, 2012
Tampa Bay Rays- Kyle Farnsworth was on the Rays’ 25-man opening day roster yesterday, but today, he’s been placed on the disabled list after complaining of elbow soreness. Joel Peralta will see save opportunities in his absence. Hierarchy change: Joel Peralta to Closer, Fernando Rodney to Set-up, Jake McGee to 2nd in line, Kyle Farnsworth to DL.

March 20, 2012
Tampa Bay Rays- Joe Maddon’s 2012 group looks much like the 2011 version of the bullpen – and that’s a good thing for the Rays. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Kyle Farnsworth, Set-up- Joel Peralta, 2nd in line- Fernando Rodney.

Sept. 26, 2011
Tampa Bay Rays- Kyle Farnsworth pitched his first inning in several weeks on Saturday, so the Rays gave him Sunday off and turned to Joel Peralta for the save. No hierarchy change.

Sept. 19, 2011
Tampa Bay Rays- Kyle Farnsworth is still out for at least two more days, and Joel Peralta picked up another save in his absence on Sunday. No hierarchy change.

Sept. 18, 2011
Tampa Bay Rays- Joel Peralta picked up the save last night with Kyle Farnsworth still on the shelf. Farnsworth is due to return on Wednesday or Thursday, so Peralta may get one or two more opportunities to close. No hierarchy change.

Sept. 13, 2011
Tampa Bay Rays- Kyle Farnsworth will be out a few days as he recovers from some shoulder soreness. Joel Peralta picked up the save last night and will close until he gets back. No hierarchy change.

Aug. 28, 2011
Tampa Bay Rays- Joel Peralta got the save last night as Farnsworth was unavailable due to a sore elbow. Madden said Farnsworth should be able to pitch tomorrow. No hierarchy change.