Monkey Bytes, April 26: A save share for the Brew Crew, Neris hangs on for his third, Game Recaps, and more

Thursday’s smaller slate yielded high-leverage outings of interest, along with some insight on how teams may be structuring their bullpens with May on the horizon. Although fantasy players prefer clarity, a clear-cut closer may not be used by teams who prefer matching up by lineup pockets in a series. With this in mind, here’s today’s Monkey Bytes.

Milwaukee Brewers –  In his 103rd MLB appearance, Trevor Megill recorded his first career save, firing a clean bottom of the ninth against the 3-4-5 lineup pocket of Pittsburgh. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (25 SwStr%). He owns a 1.06 WHIP with five strikeouts against three walks over his first 5.2 innings. Joel Payamps operated as the HLR, allowing a lead-off double by Oneil Cruz, retiring the next two batters, walking Andrew McCutchen, and inducing an inning-ending groundout by Bryan Reynolds for his third hold. He’s been scoreless in 11 of his 12 games this year. Jared Koenig collected his first win, navigating around two hits and a walk during a scoreless seventh. Abner Uribe recorded a clean sixth, striking out the side on 12 pitches (75 Strike%) with three whiffs (25 SwStr%).

It may be frustrating from a fantasy perspective, but manager Pat Murphy maps out the high-leverage innings in a match-up-based fashion, which will provide Payamps, Megill, and others saves when necessary. There will not be a traditional closer moving forward. 

Hierarchy remains: *Joel Payamps | *Trevor Megill (HLR) | Abner Uribe

*= closer-by-committee

Chicago Cubs – Although he dealt with traffic, Hector Neris held on for his third save, navigating around consecutive walks in the top of the ninth (Yordan Alvarez and Kyle Tucker) with a fielder’s choice groundout at third, a fielder’s choice groundout recorded at second putting runners at the corners, then inducing a game-ending groundout to first, preserving the two-run win. Neris threw 27 pitches (16 strikes – 59.3 Strike%) and produced one whiff. He’s converted three straight saves despite his underlying data. Hayden Wesneski collected his second win, firing 2.1 clean frames and striking out one.

Leaving this as shared for now, but if Neris remains entrenched in the ninth inning this weekend, the hierarchy will adjust accordingly.

Hierarchy remains (for now): *Hector Neris | *Mark Leiter Jr. (HLR) | Adbert Alzolay 

*= closer-by-committee

Here are the rest of Thursday’s recaps, by their respective league.

American League – Game Recaps from April 25

Cleveland Guardians – Shutting the door on his eighth save, Emmanuel Clase fired a clean ninth, striking out one while preserving a two-run win over the Red Sox. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He’s posted a 0.85 WHIP with 14 strikeouts versus one walk over 13 innings and he’s recorded 94 saves since 2022. Cade Smith worked a clean eighth, striking out two for his second hold. Scott Barlow turned in a clean seventh, striking out one, and securing his sixth hold. Hunter Gaddis collected his first win, letting his only inherited runner score, yielding a hit over two-thirds scoreless in the sixth.

Hierarchy remains: Emmanuel Clase | Hunter Gaddis | Scott Barlow

Minnesota Twins – Forced into action in the top of the ninth, Griffin Jax inherited a bases-loaded situation with one out. He retired his first batter faced via strikeout, then let an inherited runner score on a fielding error by Carlos Santana, then induced a game-ending groundout by Andrew Vaughn, closing out a three-run win for his fourth save. Jax threw nine pitches (66.7 Strike%) while producing two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). Steven Okert created the mess, allowing a hit, an unearned run, a hit batter, and a walk over one-third of the ninth. Brock Stewart notched his sixth hold, tossing a scoreless eighth while giving up a hit and a walk while striking out two. Caleb Thielbar fired a clean seventh for his second hold. Cole Sands collected his first win, issuing a walk during a scoreless sixth, ahead of his team’s three-run rally in the bottom of the frame.

Updated Hierarchy: *Griffin Jax | *Brock Stewart | Caleb Thielbar

Oakland A’s – Save number six for Mason Miller. He took over in the eighth and stranded a runner, striking out José Trevino. Miller returned for the ninth and worked around a one-out single by Anthony Volpe by striking out Juan Soto and coaxing a game-ending flyout by Aaron Judge. He threw 17 pitches (13 strikes – 76.5 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%). This outing extended his scoreless streak to 10.1 innings with 22 strikeouts against three walks and a 0.68 WHIP. He also raised his already ridiculous strikeout percentage over 50 in this outing (51.1 percent – 23 strikeouts of 45 batters faced). T.J. McFarland recorded his fourth hold, allowing a hit and striking out one over two-thirds of the eighth. Lucas Erceg secured his sixth hold, walking one and striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Mason Miller | Lucas Erceg | Dany Jiménez

* =closer-by-committee

Seattle Mariners – Nailing down his third save, Andrés Muñoz fired a clean bottom of the ninth, preserving a one-run win, and the series. He threw eight pitches (62.5 Strike%) without recording a whiff. He’s turned in consecutive scoreless outings and been unscored upon in six of his last seven. Gabe Speier secured his fourth hold, stranding two runners in the seventh and logging 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit while striking out one. He’s been scoreless in 10 of 11 games this season while posting a 15:2 K:BB. Ryne Stanek was credited with his fourth hold, despite allowing two hits and an unearned run while striking out two in the seventh.

Although the team has used Muñoz in some HLR patterns, it prefers him for save chances, here’s hoping he receives a clearer path toward them moving forward.

Hierarchy remains: *Andrés Muñoz | *Ryne Stanek | Gabe Speier

*= closer-by-committee

National League – Game Recaps from April 25

Colorado Rockies – Capping a six-run rally in the bottom of the eight, Justin Lawrence locked down his second save, firing a clean ninth, and striking out one. He threw 14 pitches (8 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted saves in his last two contests and been scoreless in four of his last five outings. Tyler Kinley collected his first win despite giving up three hits and an earned run while striking out one in the eighth. Nick Mears gave up two hits and two earned runs while striking out two in the seventh. Peter Lambert logged 2.2 scoreless frames.

Updated hierarchy: Justin Lawrence | Jake Bird / Nick Mears

Los Angeles Dodgers – Snapping back into form, Evan Phillips secured his seventh save, firing a clean bottom of the ninth, and striking out two. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%). He owns a 1.13 WHIP with 13 strikeouts against four walks through his first 10.2 innings while converting all seven save chances. Daniel Hudson recorded his sixth hold, giving up two hits and an earned run while striking out one. Alex Vesia worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out three on 15 pitches (80 Strike%) with five whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains: Evan Phillips | Daniel Hudson | Joe Kelly

Philadelphia Phillies – Appearing in a non-save capacity, Jeff Hoffman preserved a combined shutout, stranding two runners in the eighth, and logging 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit, and striking out three. He threw 20 pitches (75 Strike%) and generated seven whiffs (35 SwStr%). Through 11 games, he owns a 1.15 WHIP with 14 strikeouts against five walks. Orion Kerkering turned in a clean seventh, then ran into trouble in the eighth, giving up a hit and a walk before being removed. He finished with 1.2 scoreless frames and recorded two strikeouts throwing 39 pitches (61.5 Strike%) with five whiffs (12.8 SwStr%).

Updated Hierarchy: *José Alvarado | *Jeff Hoffman | Orion Kerkering

* = closer-by-committee

San Diego Padres – Taking over in the third, Jhony Brito stranded a runner, and logged 2.1 scoreless innings, scattering three hits. Enyel De Los Santos notched his third hold, stranding two runners in the fifth, and retiring all four batters faced via strikeout. Then things went off the rails. Yuki Matsui gave up a hit, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one over a combined inning. Wandy Peralta let both inherited runners score, allowing three hits, four earned runs on his ledger, and a walk, while striking out one over one-third of the eighth, resulting in his first loss. Stephen Kolek let his only inherited runner score, yielding a hit and a walk with one strikeout in his one-third of the eighth. Colorado scored six runs in the frame.

Adjusted Hierarchy: Robert Suarez | Enyel De Los Santos / Yuki Matsui

Quick Hits from April 25

Boston Red Sox – As promised, Kenley Jansen made his first appearance since April 20, tossing a clean bottom of the eighth and striking out one during an eventual loss. He threw eight pitches (87.5 Strike%) and produced one whiff facing the Guardians 6-7-8 batters. Chris Martin allowed two hits, an unearned run, and a walk in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Kenley Jansen | Chris Martin | Justin Slaten

Houston Astros – Suffering his first loss, Rafael Montero allowed two hits and two earned runs while striking out one during his combined inning of relief. He did strand two runners for Justin Verlander in the fifth but gave up a single by Dansby Swanson in the sixth, a stolen base, another single, and a fielder’s choice groundout, tying the game. He left with a runner on and Bryan Abreu let him score, serving up a two-run home run by Pete Crow-Armstrong. Abreu logged 1.2 innings, giving up two hits, an earned run, and recording two strikeouts.

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

Pittsburgh Pirates – Aroldis Chapman suffered his second loss and second blown save, giving up two hits, including a two-run, go-ahead home run by Gary Sánchez, and striking out one in the eighth. He’s given up at least a run in five straight outings, allowing four hits, eight runs (six earned), and seven walks while striking out six over three innings. His WHIP has risen from 1.13 to 1.75 as a result.

Hierarchy remains: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Colin Holderman

Texas Rangers – Back from the injured list, Josh Sborz fired a clean top of the ninth, keeping the game within one run. Cole Winn tossed two clean frames, striking out four during the eventual loss.

Hierarchy remains: Kirby Yates | David Robertson | José Leclerc

Washington Nationals – Appearing during a loss, Kyle Finnegan tossed a clean top of the ninth, striking out one on 10 pitches (70 Strike%) with two whiffs (20 SwStr%). He last recorded a save on April 17 but owns a 1.06 WHIP over his first 10.1 innings. Jordan Weems allowed a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one in the eighth.

Hierarchy remains: Kyle Finnegan | Hunter Harvey | Jordan Weems

Vulture Save Options for Friday, April 26

CHC: Neris has pitched on consecutive days, but with match-ups in play, it could be Mark Leiter Jr. or Yency Almonte. Also keeping tabs on Ben Brown, he could emerge as an impact reliever.

MIL: Both Megill and Payamps have pitched on back-to-back days, opening the door for an Abner Uribe save chance.

MIN: Another team with its top options working the previous two days, Jax and Stewart will be unavailable, putting Matt Bowman and Caleb Thielbar on the radar for an ancillary save chance, though Cole Sands remains in play.

OAK: Noting the team will not use Miller on consecutive days, Lucas Erceg has been his primary set-up reliever, making him the play for the vulture save.

Vulture Save Options for Saturday, April 27

BOS: If Jansen pitches again tonight, Justin Slaten could get a multi-inning save chance on Saturday.

LAD: Phillips has pitched in two of the last three days, and if he gets a save chance tonight, Joe Kelly would be in line for the save on Saturday.

SEA: Muñoz has also pitched in two of the last three, but if Stanek and Speier also pitch this evening, it would be a mix of Trent Thornton or Tayler Saucedo for the save on Saturday.

WSH: Finnegan logged an outing during a loss on Thursday, but if he pitches again tonight, Hunter Harvey would receive the save chance on Saturday.

Closer Monkey’s filthy pitch of the day goes to this cutter by Emmanuel Clase, courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

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Monkey Bytes, April 25: Cash flummoxes fantasy players (again), Neris records his second save, Payamps his fourth, Game Recaps, and more

Leading off with three of the more confusing leverage ladders, Wednesday’s slate featured leverage pathways by the Rays, Cubs, and Brewers resulting in saves. Will these patterns repeat? This remains one of the biggest questions ahead of this weekend’s contests. All of yesterday’s high-leverage events of interest get covered in our daily Monkey Bytes.

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.

This usage pattern caused a hierarchy change. Adam will be the HLR (highest-leveraged reliever), securing saves when possible, but leaving ancillary saves for Poche and Cleavinger. Clarity may emerge, but it’s too soon to put any of these relievers in a defined role.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Chicago Cubs – Despite serving up a lead-off solo home run by José Altuve, Hector Neris secured his second save of the season, retiring the next three batters, including a strikeout against Yordan Alvarez before a game-ending flyout by Kyle Tucker. Neris threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Mark Leiter Jr. worked around two hits for a scoreless eighth, recording a strikeout for his fifth hold. Luke Little notched his second hold, retiring both batters faced over two-thirds of the seventh. Adbert Alzolay stranded a runner in the sixth, hit a batter, and retired two batters during his two-thirds combined, recording his first hold.

Hierarchy remains (for now): *Hector Neris | *Mark Leiter Jr. (HLR) | *Adbert Alzolay 

*= closer-by-committee

Milwaukee Brewers – Weaving into, and out of trouble, Joel Payamps navigated around two batters reaching via error, for a scoreless ninth and notched his fourth save. He recorded two strikeouts while throwing 11 pitches (10 strikes – 90.9 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless over his last seven outings and converted a save in three of the last four. Trevor Megill secured his third hold, firing a clean bottom of the eighth, striking out one while facing the 2-3-4 lineup lane of Pittsburgh. Elvis Peguero worked a scoreless seventh, walking one and striking out one for his fourth hold. Bryan Hudson collected his second win, logging 1.2 scoreless frames, allowing a hit, and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: *Joel Payamps | *Trevor Megill (HLR) | Abner Uribe

*= closer-by-committee

Now for the remaining high-leverage moments of interest by their respective league.

American League – Game Recaps from April 24

Baltimore Orioles – Hanging on for his seventh save, Craig Kimbrel benefited from a game-ending ruling on a caught stealing. He gave up a lead-off infield single, and an unearned run when the runner reached third on a throwing error, then scored on a fielder’s choice groundout. Jo Adell drew a two-out walk and was thrown out at second, ending the game. Kimbrel threw 19 pitches (11 strikes – 57.9 Strike%), generating four whiffs (21.1 SwStr%) while allowing a hit, a walk, and striking out one. Danny Coulombe recorded his fourth hold, retiring both batters faced, striking out one. Yennier Cano notched his fourth hold, giving up a solo home run (Zach Neto), and striking out two over a combined inning.

Hierarchy remains: Craig Kimbrel | Yennier Cano | Danny Coulombe

Kansas City Royals – For a second straight night, James McArthur recorded the save, this time with a scoreless top of the ninth, giving up a hit and striking out two. He threw 16 pitches (13 strikes – 81.3 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (25 SwStr%). He’s converted all six save chances this month and posted a 13:12 K:BB through his last 11.2 innings. Chris Stratton notched his second hold, firing a clean eighth and striking out two. John Schreiber collected his second win, retiring the side in the seventh. Angel Zerpa allowed three hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out three during his 1.2 innings of relief.

Hierarchy remains: James McArthur | John Schreiber | Chris Stratton

Minnesota Twins – Nailing down his third save, Griffin Jax fired a clean top of the ninth, recording one strikeout. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted in his last two appearances and owns a modest three-game scoreless streak with five strikeouts versus zero walks over three innings. Brock Stewart secured his fifth hold, tossing a clean eighth and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: *Griffin Jax | *Brock Stewart | Steven Okert

* =closer-by-committee

National League – Game Recaps from April 24

Atlanta Braves – Navigating around a hit and a walk, while stranding the “place” runner, A.J. Minter collected his fourth win after striking out Jazz Chisolm, and a walk-off in the bottom of the tenth. Minter threw 14 pitches (8 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%). Raisel Iglesias suffered his first blown save, allowing three consecutive hits in the top of the ninth facing the top of the Marlins lineup. With the bases loaded, an error by Matt Olson scored two runs, one earned, before Iglesias retired the next three hitters, keeping the game tied, including an inning-ending strikeout. Joe Jiménez secured his sixth hold, firing a clean eighth, and striking out one.

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

Cincinnati Reds – Needing only five pitches (80 Strike%), Alexis Díaz notched his fifth save, allowing a one-out single and inducing a game-ending double play groundout by Nick Castellanos, closing out a three-run comeback win over the Phillies. He owns a modest six-game scoreless streak with six walks versus three walks over 6.1 innings since April 8. Brent Suter fired a clean eighth, striking out two for his first hold. Fernando Cruz operated as the “fireman” once again, stranding two runners while retiring both batters faced in the seventh for his sixth hold. Emilio Pagán was credited with his first hold despite giving up three hits and an earned run over one-third of the seventh. Justin Wilson collected his first win, retiring a batter and stranding two in the sixth. Lucas Sims gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout in two-thirds of the sixth.

Adjusted Hierarchy: Alexis Díaz | Fernando Cruz (HLR) / Lucas Sims

Miami Marlins – Taking over the bottom of the tenth, Tanner Scott suffered his fourth loss, allowing a walk-off RBI double by Michael Harris II, throwing only two pitches during his outing. This snapped Scott’s modest three-game scoreless streak. He owns a 1.78 WHIP over 10.2 innings this season. Calvin Faucher logged two scoreless frames, giving up two hits and a walk while striking out two. Andrew Nardi tossed a scoreless seventh, walking one and striking out three. Bryan Hoeing worked two clean innings, striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Calvin Faucher

San Diego Padres – Moving into a tie for the MLB lead in saves, Robert Suarez fired a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out one, closing out a 5-2 win in Colorado. He threw seven pitches (71.4 Strike%) and produced one whiff versus the 6-7-8 batters. He owns a 0.94 WHIP with 10 strikeouts versus four walks over 11.2 innings this season. Wandy Peralta served up a solo home run (Elias Díaz) in the bottom of the eighth, creating the save opportunity. Yuki Matsui retired the side in the seventh on six pitches.

Hierarchy remains: Robert Suarez | Yuki Matsui | Wandy Peralta

St. Louis Cardinals – After his teammates tacked on two runs in the bottom of the eighth, Ryan Helsley closed out a four-run win in a non-save capacity. He gave up a lead-off single by Jake McCarthy but bounced back with a strikeout and a game-ending double play groundout by pinch hitter Ketel Marte for a scoreless outing. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He owns a 0.92 WHIP with 14 strikeouts against one walk through 13 innings and has been scoreless in all 12 April outings. Andrew Kittredge notched his eighth hold, giving up a hit during a scoreless eighth. JoJo Romero worked a scoreless seventh, issuing a walk for his eighth hold.

Hierarchy remains: Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | JoJo Romero

Quick Hits from April 24

Chicago White Sox –  Back from the injured list, John Brebbia tossed a scoreless bottom of the eighth, allowing a hit and striking out two. Dominic Leone fired a clean seventh, striking out the side.

Hierarchy remains (for now): Michael Kopech | Steven Wilson | Jordan Leasure

Detroit Tigers – Suffering his first loss, and second blown save, Will Vest allowed three hits and three earned runs while striking out one in the bottom of the sixth. Shelby Miller worked a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and striking out two. Andrew Chafin fired a clean eighth, striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Jason Foley | Alex Lange | Andrew Chafin

Houston Astros – Appearing during a loss, Ryan Pressly fired a clean bottom of the eighth, striking out two on nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) with two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

New York Mets – During a non-save outing, Edwin Díaz allowed consecutive one-out singles, and an unearned run on a throwing error, closing out an 8-2 win over the Giants. He threw 20 pitches (70 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He owns a 0.92 WHIP with 12 strikeouts versus four walks over 8.2 innings. Adam Ottavino logged 1.1 scoreless frames, walking one and striking out three. Reed Garrett collected his MLB-leading fourth win, giving up two hits, including a solo home run resulting in his first earned run allowed this season, and a walk while striking out four.

Hierarchy remains: Edwin Díaz | Adam Ottavino | Reed Garrett

Philadelphia Phillies – An ugly evening for the bullpen began with Seranthony Domínguez suffering his first loss and first blown save, giving up two hits, four earned runs, and two walks while striking out one in two-thirds of the sixth. Matt Strahm took over, allowing both inherited runners to score, yielding two hits and striking out one in one-third of the sixth. Gregory Soto gave up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two in the seventh. José Alvarado permitted an earned run on a one-out single (Elly De La Cruz), two stolen bases, a Spencer Steer sacrifice fly, a walk, and a strikeout in the bottom of the eighth.

Updated Hierarchy: *José Alvarado | *Jeff Hoffman | Orion Kerkering

* = closer-by-committee

Vulture Save Options for Thursday, April 25

KCR: After using its newly preferred high-leverage triumvirate over the last two days, McArthur, Stratton, and Schreiber will be unavailable. If a save chance presents itself, Nick Anderson could be in line, with Tyler Duffey representing a multi-inning wild card.

SDP: Another “Hail Mary” play could be Enyel De Los Santos versus Colorado. Suarez has pitched in three of the last four and may need today off.

Vulture Save Stashes for Friday, April 26

CHC: If Neris pitches again today, it may yield an ancillary save chance for Yency Almonte on Friday.

CIN: Cruz will be off today, but if the team uses Díaz for a second straight day, Fernando could be in line for the save chance on Friday.

MIL: Monitor if the team uses Payamps and Megill again in today’s contest, if they do, Abner Uribe will be on track for the save chance on Friday.

PHI: Alvarado pitched on Thursday, and if he appears again today, it opens the door for a Jeff Hoffman save chance on Friday.

Closer Monkey’s filthy sequence of the day goes to Brock Stewart, courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

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Monkey Bytes, April 24: Bednar works in three straight, Clase nails down his seventh save, Tampa Bay shows its hand in a loss, Game Recaps, Rehab Notes, and more

Full slate Tuesdays provide a bevy of high-leverage moments, along with some trends in usage patterns. Although workload management remains a priority for teams, two teams went for wins, deploying their closers regardless of recent outings. Kevin Cash remained coy about who may replace Pete Fairbanks atop the Rays’ bullpen hierarchy, but as planned, the leverage pathway was leading toward his preferred option, until a blown save occurred. These situations, along with game recaps, quick hits, rehab notes, and vulture saves will be covered in today’s Monkey Bytes.

Pittsburgh Pirates – Ignoring workload management, David Bednar appeared for a third straight game, all scoreless, securing his fourth save with a clean ninth, preserving a one-run over Milwaukee. He threw 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He’s converted four of seven save chances but may be turning the corner from a fantasy perspective. Colin Holderman notched his second hold, walking one and striking out two in a scoreless eighth.

Hierarchy remains: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Colin Holderman

Cleveland Guardians – Locking down his seventh save, Emmanuel Clase fired a clean ninth, striking out the side on 13 pitches (11 strikes – 84.6 Strike%) and generating six whiffs (50 SwStr%). He’s converted seven of nine save chances and appeared in 12 of his team’s 23 contests, including three of the last four. He owns a 0.92 WHIP with 13 strikeouts against one walk through his first 12 innings. Hunter Gaddis notched his sixth hold, allowing a hit and striking out one during a scoreless eighth. He’s riding a career-best 13.2-inning scoreless streak. Scott Barlow collected his first win, retiring both batters faced and striking out one in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Emmanuel Clase | Hunter Gaddis | Scott Barlow

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

American League – Game Recaps from April 23

Chicago White Sox – Handed a one-run lead in the bottom of the ninth, Steven Wilson suffered his second loss, and first blown save, allowing a lead-off home run (Byron Buxton), a one-out walk to Carlos Santana, an RBI double by Ryan Jeffers, and a walk-off, RBI single by Alex Kiriloff. Wilson threw 25 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced three whiffs. Michael Kopech took over in the eighth matched-up with the 9-1-2 lineup pocket. He gave up a lead-off single by Christian Vazquez, then recorded two outs before serving up a two-run home run by Trevor Larnach, before striking out Max Kepler, ending the inning with a one-run lead for his first hold. He threw 19 pitches (13 strikes – 68.4 Strike%) and produced one whiff. Jordan Leasure was credited with his third hold, yielding two hits and an earned run in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | Steven Wilson | Jordan Leasure

Detroit Tigers – Securing his seventh save, Jason Foley fired a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out one while facing the 7-8-9 lineup pocket of the Rays. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) while inducing one whiff (11.1 SwStr%). He owns a 1.00 WHIP with 11 strikeouts against six walks through 11 innings. Alex Lange recorded his first hold, yielding a hit and striking out one during a scoreless eighth, facing the heart of the lineup. Alex Faedo collected his first win, and second blown save, allowing three hits, including a go-ahead two-run home run (Isaac Paredes), and a walk while striking out one, ahead of his team’s three-run rally in the top of the eighth.

Lange has recorded four straight scoreless outings, giving up two hits (0.50 WHIP) with five strikeouts. He’s produced 37 strikes on 54 pitches (68.5 Strike%) with nine whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He’s streaky, but he could receive more high-leverage events moving forward, affecting the hierarchy change. 

Adjusted hierarchy: Jason Foley | Alex Lange | Andrew Chafin

Kansas City Royals – Save number five for “The General”. James McArthur logged two scoreless frames while navigating around a hit and a walk, preserving a one-run over Toronto. He threw 20 pitches (55 Strike%) without recording a whiff. He’s posted a 1.29 WHIP with 12 strikeouts against two walks over 11.2 innings this season. John Schreiber secured his fifth hold, tossing a clean eighth on 14 pitches. Chris Stratton stranded one of three runners in the fifth and turned in 1.2 clean frames while striking out one for his second win of the season.

Hierarchy remains: James McArthur | John Schreiber | Chris Stratton

Los Angeles Angels – Tasked with a three-run lead, Carlos Estévez notched his fourth save, and first since April 6, firing a clean ninth and recording two strikeouts versus the 9-1-2 hitters from Baltimore. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He owns a 0.57 WHIP with seven strikeouts versus zero walks over seven innings. Luis García secured his second hold, logging 1.2 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out three. Matt Moore struggled, giving up a solo home run (Gunnar Henderson) among his two hits during one-third of the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | Luis García

Minnesota Twins – Benefiting from a walk-off rally in the bottom of the ninth, Jay Jackson collected his first win of the season. He logged two innings, giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out four. Steven Okert gave up a hit and an earned run, with one strikeout in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: *Griffin Jax | *Brock Stewart | Steven Okert

* =closer-by-committee

New York Yankees – An MLB-leading ninth save for Clay Holmes, preserving a one-run win with a clean ninth while striking out two. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s recorded a save in 15 of his last 19 appearances since September 12, 2023. This year, he owns a 1.08 WHIP with 10 strikeouts versus one walk over 12 innings.

Hierarchy remains: Clay Holmes | Ian Hamilton | Victor González

National League – Game Recaps from April 23

Arizona Diamondbacks – Recording three scoreless innings, Logan S. Allen closed out a lopsided win in St. Louis for his first career save. He threw 34 pitches (24 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) and produced four whiffs. He allowed a hit and a walk while striking out two in this outing.

Hierarchy remains: Kevin Ginkel | Ryan Thompson | Kyle Nelson

Chicago Cubs – Entering in the top of the eighth, Yency Almonte stranded two runners after inducing an inning-ending groundout by Alex Bregman. Almonte returned for the ninth, retiring the side while striking out one, and was rightly credited with his first save. He logged 1.1 clean frames on 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless over his last seven outings with 10 strikeouts against three walks. Mark Leiter Jr. allowed a hit and a walk over two-thirds scoreless before being removed. He remains unscored upon this season posting a 0.97 WHIP with 12 strikeouts versus five walks over 11.1 innings. Ben Brown fired a clean seventh in a non-save appearance.

Almonte does not appear in our hierarchy yet, but he could be another save option if he remains effective during high-leverage situations. For now, he may be the right-handed match-up bride reliever, working in tandem with Leiter Jr., who takes on left-handed hitting pockets. This remains a fluid leverage ladder, so usage patterns through the weekend will be pivotal from a fantasy perspective.

Hierarchy remains (for now): *Hector Neris | *Mark Leiter Jr. (HLR) | *Adbert Alzolay 

*= closer-by-committee

Colorado Rockies – In attack mode, Justin Lawrence recorded his first save of the season, navigating around a two-out single by Jake Cronenworth with a game-ending flyout by Jurickson Profar. Lawrence threw 10 pitches (80 Strike%) without producing a whiff. This marks his first save since September 12 of last year. Jake Bird tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and striking out one.

Updated hierarchy: *Justin Lawrence | *Nick Mears | Jake Bird

*= closer-by-committee

Los Angeles Dodgers – A rare, traffic-infused outing for Evan Phillips, but he held on for his sixth save of the season. It started with a strikeout, followed by consecutive one-out walks, and a CJ Abrams single, with Luis García Jr. being thrown out at home. With two outs, Phillips walked Eddie Rosario, loading the bases before a game-ending strikeout of Jesse Winker. He labored through 32 pitches (50 Stirke%) and induced five whiffs (15.6 SwStr%). He’s displayed some rust after not appearing for six days before his previous outing on April 20. Daniel Hudson secured his fifth hold, walking one during a scoreless eighth. Alex Vesia collected his first win, logging 1.1 scoreless innings, yielding a hit and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Evan Phillips | Daniel Hudson | Joe Kelly

San Francisco Giants – Taking over a 5-0 game in the ninth, Tyler Rogers ran into trouble versus the heart of the Mets’ lineup. He allowed a lead-off double by Pete Alonso, followed by a Brett Baty single, putting runners on the corners, and gave up a run on an RBI fielder’s choice. After Jeff McNeil singled with one out, Camilo Doval took over and converted his fourth save, retiring Joey Wendle via strikeout and a game-ending groundout by Omar Narváez on only five pitches (all strikes) with one whiff (20 SwStr). Doval’s pitched on consecutive days and in three of the last four.

Hierarchy remains: Camilo Doval | Tyler Rogers | Taylor Rogers

Quick Hits

Cincinnati Reds – Forced into action during the fifth inning with the bases loaded and one out, Fernando Cruz retired Trea Turner via strikeout and then quelled the threat on a J.T. Realmuto lineout to center. For his efforts, he collected his first win. He’s emerged as the team’s HLR (highest-leveraged reliever).

Hierarchy remains: Alexis Díaz | Lucas Sims / Fernando Cruz

Milwaukee Brewers – Pitching during an eventual one-run loss, Abner Uribe tossed a scoreless bottom of the eighth, walking one and striking out one. He threw 13 pitches (7 strikes – 53.8 Strike%) and produced two whiffs.

Hierarchy remains: *Joel Payamps | *Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe

*= closer-by-committee

Philadelphia Phillies – Appearing during a loss, Orion Kerkering turned in a clean bottom of the sixth, facing the Reds’ 2-3-4 hitters. He threw 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

Hierarchy remains: *José Alvarado | *Jeff Hoffman | Seranthony Domínguez

* = closer-by-committee

Seattle Mariners – Finishing off a combined shutout, Andrés Muñoz tossed a scoreless ninth, giving up a one-out single by Nathaniel Lowe then induced a game-ending double play groundout by Josh Smith. He threw 16 pitches (75 Strike%) and produced one whiff. It’s been a tough stretch for the talented reliever, but he has been scoreless in five of his last six contests. Gabe Speier fired a clean eighth, striking out two on 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) with one whiff. Ryne Stanek retired his only batter faced in the seventh, stranding two runners for his third hold.

Hierarchy remains: *Andrés Muñoz | *Ryne Stanek | Gabe Speier

*= closer-by-committee

Texas Rangers – Appearing during a loss, José Leclerc tossed a scoreless top of the eighth, walking one against the 4-5-6-7 hitters. He threw 19 pitches (10 strikes – 52.6 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (21.1 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains: Kirby Yates | David Robertson | José Leclerc

Washington Nationals – Suffering his first loss, Hunter Harvey issued a lead-off walk in the top of the eighth, a leverage mortal sin, followed by a pop-out and an RBI double by James Outman. With two outs, he was replaced, but an inherited runner scored, putting two earned runs on his ledger over a combined inning. Harvey threw 37 pitches (25 strikes – 67.6 Strike%) and produced only two whiffs.

Hierarchy remains: Kyle Finnegan | Hunter Harvey | Jordan Weems

Rehab Notes

Arizona Diamondbacks – Appearing with Reno, his team’s Triple-A affiliate, Paul Sewald allowed two hits, a run (unearned), and a walk while striking out two. He threw 21 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (14.3 SwStr%). Here’s his Statcast data:

Minnesota Twins – During his Triple-A rehab outing with St. Paul, Jhoan Durán gave up four hits and two earned runs while recording three strikeouts. He threw 27 pitches (15 strikes – 55.6 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (18.5 SwStr%).

Vulture Save Options for Wednesday, April 24

CLE: Since Clase’s appeared in three of the last four, he may require a day off, though he prefers pitching. Just in case, Hunter Gaddis could be in line for the ancillary save.

KCR: McArthur logged two innings, on 20 pitches, and Stratton worked 1.2 innings, which may yield a save chance for John Schreiber later today.

PIT: It’s been a tough patch lately for Aroldis Chapman, allowing 10 walks over his last save outings (4.1 innings), but he should be in line for a save with Bednar appearing in three straight. SF

SFG: Doval’s pitched in two straight, and in three of the last four. His struggles last year happened after heavy usage patterns, so he should be down today. Although it feels like Taylor Rogers would get the vulture save, leaning toward Ryan Walker, he’s earned a larger leverage share and matches up better with the Mets’ heart of the lineup. (UPDATE: Walker’s working as the “opener”, he will not be a save candidate)

Unfortunately, for Thursday, the teams playing may not provide a vulture save option, with some of the options being repeats from the list above.

Closer Monkey’s filthy pitch of the day goes to Clay Holmes and his game-ending strikeout against the A’s, courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

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Monkey Bytes, April 23: It’s Miller time (again), Bednar secures his third, Kimbrel hangs on for his sixth, Game Recaps, and more

Although Monday only provided 11 contests on the slate, it yielded seven saves and a win for high-leverage relievers. These will be covered in today’s post, in order of occurrence. However, the biggest news of the day happened when Tampa Bay placed Pete Fairbanks on the 15-day injured list with a “nerve issue“. With no reports of a timeline or the severity, it’s difficult placing a potential return date for the closer, and Kevin Cash hinted at a match-up-based approach moving forward. As shared, the updated hierarchy for the Rays:

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

*= closer-by-committee

Oakland A’s – Taking over in the bottom of the ninth, Mason Miller locked down his fifth save, preserving a combined shutout while striking out the side against the top of the Yankees lineup. He threw 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (42.9 SwStr%). He owns a 20:4 K:BB through his first 10 innings with a 1.00 WHIP. It’s a small sample, but he’s retired 20 of 40 batters faced via strikeout (50 strikeout percentage), are you still concerned about his team concept? Lucas Erceg collected his first win,  logging two scoreless frames, walking one, and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Mason Miller | Lucas Erceg | Dany Jiménez

Pittsburgh Pirates – Snapping a six-game losing streak, David Bednar closed out his first save since April 12, and third of the season, tossing a scoreless ninth. He allowed a one-out single by Jackson Chourio but retired the next two hitters, including a game-ending strikeout facing Oliver Dunn. Bednar threw 20 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Hunter Stratton recorded his first hold, stranding two of three inherited runners, retiring both batters faced while giving up an RBI fielder’s choice groundout over two-thirds of the eighth. Aroldis Chapman was credited with his sixth hold despite allowing three walks resulting in an earned run, and striking out one in one-third of the eighth. He’s issued 10 walks over his last seven appearances (4.1 innings). Colin Holderman fired a clean seventh, striking out one for his first hold.

Hierarchy remains: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Colin Holderman

Atlanta Braves – Nailing down his seventh save, and seventh in his last seven appearances, Raisel Iglesias fired a clean ninth, striking out one during a combined shutout of Miami. He threw 11 pitches (54.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s posted a 0.72 WHIP with six strikeouts against one walk over 8.1 innings. A.J. Minter recorded his third hold, tossing a clean eighth and striking out one. He owns a six-game scoreless streak with a 0.33 WHIP and six strikeouts over his last six innings.

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

Toronto Blue Jays – Securing his third save, Jordan Romano served up a solo home run (Kyle Isbel) and recorded a strikeout while closing out a 5-3 win in Kansas City. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%). He’s converted all three save chances this season but allowed a run in two of four outings. Yimi García has his clean innings streak snapped, giving up a one-out single by Bobby Witt Jr., but extended his scoreless streak to 7.2 innings, recording 11 strikeouts against zero walks in them (0.13 WHIP). Erik Swanson notched his third hold, allowing a hit and striking out one during a scoreless seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Jordan Romano | Yimi García (HLR) | Erik Swanson

St. Louis Cardinals – Benefiting from a walk-off in the bottom of the ninth, Ryan Helsley collected his second win, allowing a hit and striking out one in a scoreless top of the inning. He threw 17 pitches (11 strikes – 64.7 Strike%) and produced one whiff. He’s now appeared in 12 of the Cardinals’ 23 games this season but has only issued one walk through his first 47 batters faced (2.1 BB%). JoJo Romero recorded two outs in the eighth and gave up a hit. Andrew Kittredge tossed 1.1 scoreless frames, walking one and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | JoJo Romero

San Diego Padres – Hanging on for his eighth save, in as many chances, Robert Suarez worked a scoreless ninth, navigating around a lead-off double and a one-out single by inducing a game-ending double play groundout, closing out a 3-1 win in Coors Field. He threw 15 pitches (13 strikes – 86.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%). He owns a 1.03 WHIP with nine strikeouts against four walks through his first 10.2 innings.

Hierarchy remains: Robert Suarez | Yuki Matsui | Wandy Peralta

Baltimore Orioles – Although he dealt with traffic on the bases, Craig Kimbrel secured his sixth save, capping a 4-2 win over the Angels. His outing began with a hit batter (Jo Adell) and a single by Logan O’Hoppe, with runners on the corners following a stolen base, Kimbrel recorded a strikeout, issued a walk loading the bases, induced a pop-out, and ended the game on a Mike Trout strikeout. He threw 23 pitches (14 strikes – 60.9 Strike%) while inducing two whiffs. He owns a 0.50 WHIP with 16 strikeouts against one walk over 10 innings. Jacob Webb retired his only batter faced for his first hold in the eighth. Yennier Cano let one of two inherited runners score in the seventh while logging 1.2 scoreless frames, giving up a hit.

Hierarchy remains: Craig Kimbrel | Yennier Cano | Danny Coulombe

San Francisco Giants – Making a non-save appearance, with a four-run lead, Camilo Doval turned in a bumpy outing. It began with a walk (Brandon Nimmo), a leverage no-no, followed by a ground out, and a fielding error by Doval. With runners on the corners, he uncorked a wild pitch, scoring Nimmo, induced a groundout by Pete Alonso, walked Brett Baty, and ended the game on a DJ Stewart groundout. He threw 27 pitches (17 strikes – 63 Strike%) and produced two whiffs while giving up an earned run on two walks. Over his first seven outings, he owns a 1.14 WHIP with 11 strikeouts versus four walks. Tyler Rogers fired a clean eighth, striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Camilo Doval | Tyler Rogers | Taylor Rogers

Quick Hits (April 22)

Arizona Diamondbacks – Ryan Thompson suffered his first loss, giving up a single in the ninth, before being removed. His final line, was a hit allowed and an earned run while striking out one over a combined inning of relief. Kyle Nelson took over in the ninth and served up a walk-off, two-run home run by Nolan Gorman.

Hierarchy remains: Kevin Ginkel | Ryan Thompson | Kyle Nelson

Detroit Tigers – Putting the bow on a six-run win, Joey Wentz allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts in the bottom of the ninth. Shelby Miller gave up two hits, including a solo home run (José Caballero), and a walk while striking out one in the eighth. Will Vest fired a clean seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Jason Foley | Shelby Miller | Andrew Chafin

New York Yankees – Suffering his first loss, Victor González allowed two hits, including a go-ahead two-run home run by Zach Gelof, and walked one without recording an out during the top of the ninth. Ron Marinaccio took over with a runner on, stranding him and retiring all three batters he faced, striking out one. Ian Hamilton navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out two in a scoreless eighth, keeping the game tied at zero.

Hierarchy remains: Clay Holmes | Ian Hamilton | Victor González

Philadelphia Phillies -Wrapping up a combined shutout, Jeff Hoffman fired a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out two on 12 pitches (7 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) and producing two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He last appeared on April 17 but owns a 1.20 WHIP with 11 strikeouts versus five walks over 10 innings. Gregory Soto turned in a clean eighth, recording two strikeouts. He threw 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (36.4 SwStr%).

Updated Hierarchy: *José Alvarado | *Jeff Hoffman | Seranthony Domínguez

Injury Update

Minnesota Twins – Closer, Jhoan Durán, will begin his rehab stint at Triple-A later today per Do-Hyoung Kim of MLB.com.

Vulture Saves for Tuesday, April 23

OAK: The team prefers not using Miller on consecutive days, and Erceg logged two innings on Monday putting Dany Jiménez on the radar for a vulture save chance this evening.

PIT: Bednar and Chapman have pitched on consecutive days, which opens the door for a potential Colin Holderman save opportunity tonight.

SDP: Suarez has pitched in two straight, so the save chance may depend on lineup pockets with Yuki Matsui matching up with left-handed batters and Wandy Peralta versus a right-handed pocket.

TOR: Romano and García have appeared in three of the last four days, plus Swanson in two of the last three, leaving Trevor Richards as the likely recipient of a save chance, if provided this evening

Vulture Save Stashes for Wednesday, April 24

ATL: If Iglesias pitches on Tuesday, he and Minter will need Wednesday off, putting Joe Jiménez in line for the ancillary save chance.

BAL: Kimbrel’s pitched in two of the last three, and if he’s used again on Tuesday, will need a day off, putting the two southpaws in the spotlight, Keegan Akin and Danny Coulombe, though Jacob Webb could be used versus the Angels if Trout hits in the ninth.

SFG: Doval has worked in two of the last three, opening the door for a potential Taylor Rogers save chance on Wednesday.

Closer Monkey’s filthy outing of the day goes to Mason Miller, striking out the side against the Yankees, courtesy of MLB Pipeline.

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Under the Hood: Alzolay and Hader outlooks moving forward

This week’s under the hood sets its sights on the early struggles by Adbert Alzolay, removing him from the closer role in Chicago in the near-term, and Josh Hader suffering from some bad luck in his results.

Adbert Alzolay, Chicago Cubs

Not much has gone right for Alzolay, he’s already suffered more blown saves (four) in 2024 through 11 games than he did last year (three) over 58 appearances. He’s given up four home runs in only 31 batted ball events and gave up five all last year across 168 batted ball events. He’s matched last season’s home run total with his slider (three) in only 14 batted balls in play.

He’s not throwing with a drastic reduction in velocity and increased his first-strike percent rate. However, when diving into his results on Statcast, one notices an increase in sweet spot percentage by over five percentage points, a boost in his expected batting average (.278), and a 5.02 expected ERA (xERA).

In terms of quality of contact, he’s struggling:

  • 3.2 solid percentage allowed plus 12.9 percent barrel rate = 16.1 good contact allowed
  • 0 percent weak contact and 0 percent pop-ups = 0 percent poor contact-induced

Taking this a step further, here’s his 10-game rolling chart from beginning of last year through his last outing, using strikeout percentage, walk rate, swinging strike percentage, and contact rate allowed:

One notices some shifts in his outcomes during the second half before he landed on the injured list and at the start of this season. With this in mind, here are his splits in some key leverage categories:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/R2jww/1/

If he retakes the ninth inning for Cubs relies on his slider. Comparing his outcomes by pitch, the lack of whiffs, and increased expected results against his most used pitch accounts for his early struggles:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/vUjx0/2/

Focus on his slider over the next two weeks, and his usage patterns. It’s tough being patient with a struggling closer, but if he finds his past production with the pitch, better days may happen. However, it’s a tough needle for a reliever to thread during the season.

Josh Hader, Houston Astros

Expecting a repeat of his 1.28 ERA from 2023 would not be realistic, but seeing Hader’s 8.38 ERA entering game play on Monday, April 22 seems like some sort of cruel joke. While sorting out qualified relievers by ERA minus SIERA, he ranks eighth in bad luck with a 5.95 run difference between the metrics. He owns a 2.43 SIERA, almost in line with his 2.34 expected ERA (xERA) from last year.

In fact, his SIERA and 2024 xERA (3.35) set a nice baseline of expectations for his results going forward. Despite his inflated ERA, he owns a 25.6 K-BB percentage, a 14.9 percent swinging strike rate, and a 64.1 strike percentage through his first 11 appearances.

As upsetting as his ERA may be, his usage patterns under first year manager Joe Espada proves more confusing. Hader’s appeared in four games with a lead, in three tied games, and worked in four games with his team trailing. Using Baseball Reference’s leverage ratings, he’s turned in four high-leverage outings, two medium leverage appearances, and pitched in five low leverage contests. Not ideal.

Viewing his underlying data from Statcast, his barrel rate remains in line with last year but he’s allowed a spike in hard hit percentage (45.5 percent) versus his career 32.9 percent barrel rate allowed. Hope lies in his .223 xBA with the sinker against his current .375 batting average against with the pitch, and a .278 expected slugging (xSLG) versus a .458 slugging percent allowed by the pitch. Things migrate toward the mean, and his results will even out.

It’s tough seeing a closer with such a high price point struggle, but focus on his past production with his pitches, and know things will improve:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/SoiKP/1/

Houston gets a break with the schedule over the next two weeks, here’s hoping Hader and his leverage teammates turn the tide with regression working in their favor.

Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community, until next time, stay safe and be well.