Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | September 2

Monday’s 13-game slate yielded seven reliever wins, though one was accompanied by a blown save (David Robertson), and seven saves while suffering eight losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for September 2

  • Garrett Whitlock (BOS): Aroldis Chapman has pitched in back-to-back games. 
  • Nick Martinez (CIN): Both Emilio Pagán and Tony Santillan have worked in consecutive contests. 
  • Matt Svanson (STL): With Riley O’Brien unavailable, if JoJo Romero pitches the eighth, Svanson may get the ninth. 
  • Chris Martin (TEX): If he’s capable of back-to-back appearances, he will get the ninth; if not, it’s probably Phil Maton. 
  • Cole Sands (MIN): More of a changing of the guard, but Justin Topa has struggled in recent outings. 

Under the Hood

Emilio Pagán suffered his sixth blown save, third since August 16, allowing three hits, including Bo Bichette’s go-ahead two-run home run and Daulton Varsho’s solo shot, prompting his removal after recording one out. First, his illustrator from this outing:

And, his results:

He has allowed at least a run in six of his last 13 appearances, three resulting in multiple run outings, since July 29, while converting four of seven save opportunities. It has been more about a declining K-BB percentage than contact percentage allowed, as this chart illustrates:

He’s an extreme fly ball pitcher, ranking in the fourth percentile among all pitchers in ground ball rate (29.7 percent) this season, and combining this with a barrel rate over ten percent, outings like Monday’s are likely to occur. In our last chart, his splits by month and half-season. Note the shifts in K-BB percentage, WHIP, and underlying metrics since the All-Star break:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/CL8Oi/3/

How he finishes may determine how he’s valued in the free agency market. Fantasy players should monitor his next few outings closely. If the home runs persist, he may need to be benched in head-to-head matchups.

Here are the leverage events of interest from Monday.

Leverage Ledger

Arizona Diamondbacks – Called upon at the top of the tenth, Juan Burgos had a line drive carom off him, scoring two runs (one earned) and forcing him from the game with two outs. He suffered his first loss, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one.

  • Jalen Beeks stranded an inherited runner, retiring his only batter in the tenth.
  • Jake Woodford let his only inherited runner score on Cody Freeman’s RBI single at the top of the ninth, resulting in his third blown save.
  • Kyle Backhus gave up two hits, including Jake Burger’s RBI triple, and got credit for his tenth hold despite allowing two earned runs.
  • Andrew Saalfrank retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the eighth against the 9-1-2 lineup pocket of Texas for his third hold.
  • Ryan Thompson notched his 12th hold, tossing a clean seventh in his first appearance back from the injured list.

Updated Hierarchy: *Andrew Saalfrank | *Jake Woodford | *Ryan Thompson

*= closer-by-committee

Baltimore Orioles – Protecting a one-run lead, Keegan Akin worked around a one-out single during a scoreless bottom of the ninth, including a game-ending strikeout of Luis Arraez for his fourth save. He threw 18 pitches (66.7% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in four of his last five games, during which he has a loss and converted two of three saves with a 0.39 WHIP across 7.2 innings.

  • Rico Garcia stranded a runner while retiring all five batters, two via strikeout, securing his fourth hold.
  • Dietrich Enns collected his second win, logging 2.1 innings, allowing two hits, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out one.

Updated Hierarchy: *Keegan Akin | *Rico Garcia | Yennier Cano

Boston Red Sox – Nailing down his 28th save, Aroldis Chapman retired the side and recorded one strikeout on five pitches, all strikes, while producing one whiff (20 SwStr%).

Since July 26, he has been scoreless in 16 appearances with a 1-0 record and 11 saves while posting a minuscule 0.292 WHIP with 17 strikeouts against four walks. He has not allowed a hit in this stretch and has not issued a walk since August 21 (six games and six innings).

  • Greg Weissert induced an inning-ending flyout against David Fry for his 17th hold.
  • Steven Matz allowed two hits, including Kyle Manzardo’s solo home run, and recorded a strikeout for his 11th hold.
  • Justin Wilson tossed a clean sixth, securing his 17th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Garrett Whitlock | Jordan Hicks

Chicago Cubs – Tasked with the top of the tenth against Atlanta, Andrew Kittredge retired the side and recorded two strikeouts, then collected his fourth win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the frame. He threw 13 pitches (84.6% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).

Brad Keller worked around two walks and registered two strikeouts in a scoreless ninth, keeping the game tied. It flies below the radar, but he’s been scoreless over his last 19 appearances since July 18, recording a win, a save, and eight holds while posting a 0.466 WHIP with 23 strikeouts versus six walks across 19.1 innings.

  • Aaron Civale logged three scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out four.

Hierarchy Remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Andrew Kittredge

Chicago White Sox – Securing a one-run lead and recording his team-leading fifth save, Jordan Leasure retired the side against Minnesota’s 2-3-4 lineup pocket at the top of the ninth, and induced an inning-ending flyout by Byron Buxton in the eighth. He threw 14 pitches (64.3% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).

It’s Leasure’s first save since August 12, and he has been scoreless in his last three appearances, racking up multiple strikeouts in each (six of his last nine batters faced).

  • Tyler Alexander logged 1.2 innings, giving up two hits and an earned run while striking out one, collecting his fifth win.
  • Steven Wilson let his only inherited runner score while recording two outs in the sixth, resulting in his sixth blown save.

Updated Hierarchy: *Jordan Leasure | *Grant Taylor | *Mike Vasil

*= closer-by-committee

Milwaukee Brewers – With the score tied at the top of the ninth, Abner Uribe struggled to command his sinker, and it resulted in his second loss. He issued Kyle Schwarber a lead-off walk, a one-out walk to J.T. Realmuto (disputed check swing), and gave up an RBI single by Brandon Marsh, followed by Harrison Bader’s RBI single. Uribe finished with two hits, two earned runs, and two walks while striking out one. He threw 25 pitches (52% strike rate) and produced four whiffs (16 SwStr%). First, his illustrator:

And, his results:

This snapped his 17-game scoreless streak, and it was his third appearance in four days.

  • Rob Zastryzny allowed a hit and a walk, letting his only inherited runner score at the top of the eighth.
  • Shelby Miller did not retire a batter, giving up two hits, and left with an injury.
  • Jared Koenig tossed a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out two.
  • Nick Mears was tagged with his fifth blown save, allowing two hits and three earned runs in the sixth.

As for Miller’s injury, he felt a “pop,” according to Pat Murphy. 

Updated Hierarchy: Abner Uribe | Nick Mears | Jared Koenig

New York Mets – Shutting the door on his 25th save, Edwin Díaz retired all four batters, two via strikeout, preserving a two-run win in Detroit. He threw 11 pitches (90.9% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).

This represents his eighth appearance requiring more than three outs this season, tying 2017 for the second most of his career, and his next one will tie his career high (9) set in 2016. Díaz has recorded four four-out saves and two requiring six outs this season.

  • Brooks Raley allowed a hit and an earned run while recording his fifth hold in a combined inning of relief.
  • Ryan Helsley gave up two hits and an earned run during two-thirds of the seventh.
  • Tyler Rogers notched his 27th hold, giving up a hit and striking out one in a scoreless sixth.
  • Ryne Stanek let one of two inherited runners score, issuing a walk during two-thirds of the fifth, resulting in his sixth blown save, but he was also awarded his third win.

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Tyler Rogers | Brooks Raley

Philadelphia Phillies – Sealing a two-run lead with a clean bottom of the ninth, Jhoan Duran recorded his 25th save, and ninth in ten opportunities since being acquired. He threw six pitches (66.7% strike rate) without a whiff while setting down Milwaukee’s 7-8-9 lineup pocket.

Through his 13 games with the Phillies, he has posted a 0.935 WHIP with 13 strikeouts and zero walks (31 K-BB%) across 10.2 innings.

  • David Robertson gave up two hits, two earned runs, and two walks while striking out two at the bottom of the eighth. He was tagged with his first blown save and collected his second win, despite his results.
  • Matt Strahm tossed a scoreless seventh, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out one.
  • José Alvarado suffered his first blown save, letting his only inherited runner score and walking one during one-third of the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Duran | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

Texas Rangers – Handed a two-run lead at the bottom of the tenth, Shawn Armstrong retired the side, recording two strikeouts and inducing a game-ending groundout against Ketel Marte, securing his sixth save. He threw 16 pitches (68.8% strike rate) without a whiff.

He has converted his last three save chances since August 17.

  • Chris Martin allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless bottom of the ninth. He collected his second win after a two-run rally at the top of the tenth.
  • Jacob Webb let his only inherited runner score, allowing a hit while logging 2.1 scoreless frames, striking out two.

Updated Hierarchy: *Shawn Armstrong | *Chris Martin | Phil Maton

*= closer-by-committee

Washington Nationals – Completing a combined shutout and recording his fifth save, Jose A. Ferrer worked around a one-out walk while preserving the win over Miami. He threw 21 pitches (61.9% strike rate) and induced one whiff while striking out one.

He extended his scoreless streak to ten games, during which he has posted two wins while converting all five save chances with a 0.813 WHIP and 11 strikeouts against one walk across 12.1 innings.

  • Cole Henry notched his eighth hold, retiring the side in the eighth.
  • Konnor Pilkington allowed a hit and struck out three in the seventh for his second hold.
  • Clayton Beeter fired a clean sixth, striking out two, and secured his third hold. 

Updated Hierarchy: Jose A. Ferrer | Clayton Beeter | PJ Poulin

Quick Hits

  • Atlanta Braves: After working a scoreless bottom of the ninth, John Brebbia allowed Carson Kelly’s walk-off two-out RBI single, resulting in his first loss. He finished with two hits, an unearned run, and two strikeouts during his 1.2 innings. Pierce Johnson suffered his third blown save, allowing two hits, including Kelly’s game-tying two-run home run in the eighth.
  • Cincinnati Reds: Summoned with one out at the top of the ninth, Yosver Zulueta retired both Blue Jays faced and collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning.
  • Cleveland Guardians: During the bottom of the fifth, Eric Sabrowski allowed two hits, two earned runs, and two walks while striking out one over one-third of the inning, resulting in his first loss.
  • Detroit Tigers: Entering at the top of the fifth, Drew Sommers retired both batters. Returning for the sixth, he gave up a single and hit a batter after recording an out, then departed with two runners on. Troy Melton let both runners score on Juan Soto’s two-RBI triple, putting two earned on Sommers’ ledger and his first loss.
  • Minnesota Twins: Taking over at the top of the eighth, Justin Topa allowed three hits and two earned runs, resulting in his fourth loss and a third blown save. The clock may have struck midnight for his run as the primary save share. He has allowed at least a run in three consecutive appearances.
  • San Diego Padres: Entering at the top of the sixth, Jason Adam retired one of two batters, but things took a turn in the seventh. With one out, Jeremiah Jackson singled, then on a ground ball up the middle, Adam landed awkwardly and left the game on a cart. He could miss extended time with a quad tendon rupture. He also suffered his fourth loss, allowing three hits and an earned run while striking out one.
  • Tampa Bay Rays: In an eventual lopsided win, Garrett Cleavinger worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out three. This extended his scoreless streak to 19 games, spanning 17 innings, during which he has posted a win and nine holds with a 0.941 WHIP and 25 strikeouts versus seven walks. 
  • Toronto Blue Jays: Handed a two-run lead at the top of the ninth, Tommy Nance allowed two hits while recording one out, and was replaced by Brendon Little. He gave up TJ Friedl’s RBI ground rule double, scoring one inherited runner, then a walk-off two-RBI single by Noelvi Marte, resulting in his second loss and a third blown save. Nance was charged with two earned runs, snapping his modest four-game scoreless streak.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

This year, the daily emails have changed. Those interested in daily free updates with links should subscribe to our page at Substack. Subscribers to the former site will not transfer over; readers must register using the new link.

Premium subscribers can still use this link for daily, ad-free content or submit a rest-of-the-season $15 payment via Venmo to @gjewett9.

If you would like to leave a tip, please use this link for PayPal. Venmo can be sent to the address above.

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

BaseballSavant.com

BrooksBaseball.net

Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | September 1

As we enter the last month of the regular season, fantasy football will become the focus for many, but for those in heated head-to-head battles or vying for a championship in their baseball league, Closer Monkey will remain focused until the end. Across Sunday’s slate, relievers recorded five wins and eight saves while suffering five losses. Here are the saves in condensed form.

For the save streamers, in order of preference:

Vulture Save Options for September 1

  • Brad Keller (CHC): Daniel Palencia has pitched in consecutive games. 
  • Tyler Phillips (MIA): He has a save in two of his last three appearances since August 24, and Calvin Faucher has worked in back-to-back contests. 
  • Luis García (LAA): Kenley Jansen has logged consecutive outings. 
  • Yariel Rodríguez (TOR): Jeff Hoffman and Seranthony Domínguez have worked in back-to-back games. 
  • Pierce Johnson (ATL): Raisel Iglesias has pitched in two straight, but has appeared in three-in-a-row on two separate occasions this season.

Also, keep an eye on whether Tampa Bay avoids Pete Fairbanks; he has not worked consecutive games since August 15 and 16.

Riley O’Brien was not used in a save situation on Friday or Saturday. The latest report was cryptic, but does not provide any thing definitive:

If he’s placed on the 15-day injured list, Matt Svanson and Kyle Leahy get a chance at being the leverage complement to JoJo Romero.

Here are Sunday’s leverage events of interest.

Leverage Ledger

Atlanta Braves – Securing his 23rd save and preserving a two-run rally at the top of the ninth, Raisel Iglesias fired a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out two. He threw 11 pitches (90.9% strike rate) and induced one whiff.

He finished August with a 0.615 WHIP while converting all ten save chances, which led all relievers for the month.

  • Tyler Kinley worked a clean bottom of the eighth, striking out one, and collected his fourth win courtesy of Drake Baldwin’s go-ahead home run in the ninth.

Hierarchy Remains: Raisel Iglesias | Dylan Lee | Pierce Johnson

Boston Red Sox – Celebrating his contract extension, Aroldis Chapman shut the door on his 27th save, retiring the side and striking out two while sealing a two-run lead against Pittsburgh. He threw 16 pitches (62.5% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless and no-hit streak to 14 games, spanning 12.2 innings, while posting a 0.315 WHIP with 16 strikeouts against four walks. As for his extension:

  • Garrett Whitlock escaped with a scoreless eighth despite allowing two hits and a walk with two strikeouts for his 22nd hold.
  • Justin Slaten allowed a solo home run and struck out two in the seventh. 

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Garrett Whitlock | Jordan Hicks

Chicago White Sox – Capping his team’s rally at the bottom of the eighth, Mike Vasil notched his third save, stranding an inherited runner by retiring all three batters faced, including a game-ending strikeout of Cody Bellinger. He threw 12 pitches (66.7% strike rate) and induced one whiff. It’s his first save since June 29.

  • Cam Booser was awarded his second win despite issuing three walks while facing four batters across the eighth and ninth innings.
  • Wikelman González allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts during two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Steven Wilson walked one in a scoreless seventh.

Seven relievers have recorded at least one save for the White Sox; none have more than five, and three have at least three.

Updated Hierarchy: *Grant Taylor | *Jordan Leasure | *Mike Vasil

*= closer-by-committee

Cincinnati Reds – Closing out a three-run lead at the top of the ninth, Emilio Pagán worked around a lead-off single by striking out the next three batters, securing his 26th save. He threw 15 pitches (80% strike rate) and induced three whiffs (20 SwStr%).

It’s his first save since August 9 and extended his modest scoreless streak to four games.

  • Tony Santillan notched his 28th hold, striking out the side in the eighth.
  • Nick Martinez retired his only batter in the seventh for his second hold.
  • Sam Moll gave up a solo home run and recorded a strikeout during two-thirds of the seventh, getting credit for his second hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Nick Martinez

Los Angeles Angels – Preserving a combined shutout, Kenley Jansen mowed down Houston’s 2-3-4 lineup pocket on 11 pitches (72.7% strike rate) without a whiff, nailing down his 25th save.

He finished August with a 2-2 record while converting all five save chances with a 1.00 WHIP.

  • Luis García gave up a hit and struck out two for his ninth hold in the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Reid Detmers | Luis García

Los Angeles Dodgers – Taking over a tied game at the top of the ninth, Blake Treinen retired the side and recorded a strikeout against Arizona’s 6-7-8 lineup pocket. He collected his first win on Will Smith’s walk-off home run at the bottom of the frame. He threw eight pitches (87.5% strike rate) and induced one whiff.

Tanner Scott entered in the eighth, matched up against the 8-9-1 hitters, and after recording two quick outs, allowed consecutive singles by Geraldo Perdomo and Ketel Marte, followed by a game-tying three-run home run by Corbin Carroll, resulting in his eighth blown save.

Hierarchy Remains: *Tanner Scott | *Blake Treinen | Alex Vesia

*= closer-by-committee with a preferred share (Scott)

Seattle Mariners – Locking down his 32nd save, Andrés Muñoz fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts facing Cleveland’s top of the lineup. He threw 16 pitches (75% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%).

This snapped a stretch of three games allowing at least a run, and he finishes August with a 1.463 WHIP while converting eight of nine save chances.

  • Matt Brash worked a clean eighth, striking out one, and notching his 19th hold.
  • Gabe Speier retired the side and struck out two in the seventh for his 20th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

Tampa Bay Rays – Navigating around two hits and benefiting from a runner being thrown out trying to stretch a single into a double, Pete Fairbanks recorded his 24th save, finishing a three-run win. He threw 16 pitches (62.5% strike rate) and generated five whiffs (31.3 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts.

He has allowed multiple hits in three of his last five appearances.

  • Mason Montgomery worked a scoreless eighth, walking one and striking out three for his tenth hold.
  • Edwin Uceta logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out three, securing his 18th hold. 

Updated Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Bryan Baker | Garrett Cleavinger

Toronto Blue Jays – Finishing a four-run win over Milwaukee, Jeff Hoffman worked around a two-out double by Andruw Monasterio and an infield single with a game-ending groundout against William Contreras. He threw 18 pitches (61.1% strike rate) and produced four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%) while recording a strikeout.

  • Seranthony Domínguez fired a clean eighth, striking out one.
  • Louis Varland logged 1.2 scoreless frames, recording three strikeouts.
  • Tommy Nance stranded three runners in the fifth and tossed a scoreless combined inning, yielding a hit and striking out one while collecting his second win. 

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Seranthony Domínguez | Yariel Rodríguez

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: Although he worked a scoreless bottom of the eighth, John Curtiss suffered his first loss, giving up Will Smith’s pinch-hit walk-off home run leading off the ninth. Brandyn Garcia worked 2.2 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out three. 
  • Chicago Cubs: Tasked with a tied score at the bottom of the ninth, Daniel Palencia gave up Ryan Ritter’s lead-off single, then threw a flat slider, resulting in a walk-off Mickey Moniak RBI-triple and his fifth loss. He finished August with a 1-3 record while converting seven of eight save opportunities with a 1.845 WHIP and 14 strikeouts versus four walks across 10.1 innings.
  • Colorado Rockies: After retiring the side and recording two strikeouts at the top of the ninth, Juan Mejia collected his second win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning against the Cubs.
  • Detroit Tigers: Completing a combined shutout, Rafael Montero worked a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded a strikeout in Kansas City. Kyle Finnegan fired a clean eighth, striking out one on nine pitches (88.9% strike rate) without a whiff. He recorded a scoreless August for the Tigers, recording three wins and four saves with 19 strikeouts versus three walks (32.7 K-BB%) while posting a 0.42 WHIP across 14.1 innings.
  • Miami Marlins: Preserving a four-run margin, Freddy Tarnok allowed a walk and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless bottom of the ninth. Calvin Faucher matched up against the top of the Mets’ lineup in the eighth, giving up Brandon Nimmo’s two-out double and striking out one in a scoreless appearance.
  • New York Yankees: With the score tied at the bottom of the eighth, Tim Hill allowed a go-ahead solo home run by Lenyn Sosa, resulting in his fourth loss.
  • Philadelphia Phillies: Summoned at the top of the ninth with the score tied, José Alvarado allowed a lead-off single by Jake Fraley, recorded consecutive outs on a sacrifice bunt and a strikeout, but gave up Drake Baldwin’s go-ahead two-run home run, resulting in his second loss.
  • San Diego Padres: Appearing during a loss, Mason Miller retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the bottom of the eighth, throwing 13 pitches (61.5% strike rate) with two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). He has been scoreless over his last nine appearances, posting a 0.778 WHIP with 17 strikeouts against four walks.
  • San Francisco Giants: Wrapping up a lopsided win over the Orioles, Spencer Bivens logged three innings, allowing six hits, two earned runs, and a walk while recording his first save of the season, second of his career.
  • Washington Nationals: During his team’s eighth straight loss, Jose A. Ferrer worked a clean top of the eighth, striking out one on 13 pitches (61.5% strike rate) with one whiff. 

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

This year, the daily emails have changed. Those interested in daily free updates with links should subscribe to our page at Substack. Subscribers to the former site will not transfer over; readers must register using the new link.

If you would like to leave a tip, please use this link for PayPal. Venmo can be sent to the address above.

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

BaseballSavant.com

BrooksBaseball.net

Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 31

Saturday’s slate yielded seven wins by relievers and nine saves while suffering seven losses. There were four ancillary saves, including a surprise one by Kyle Leahy (STL), covered in condensed form:

For the save streamers, in order of preference:

Vulture Save Options for August 31

  • Orion Kerkering (PHI): Jhoan Duran and Matt Strahm have pitched in back-to-back games. 
  • Shelby Miller (MIL): Abner Uribe has appeared in consecutive games. 
  • Kaleb Ort (HOU): Bryan Abreu threw 28 pitches yesterday and has thrown 51 over the previous four days, logging three appearances. 
  • Matt Svanson (STL): JoJo Romero has worked in three consecutive contests, Kyle Leahy will be unavailable, and Riley O’Brien has not pitched (?) in this series. If O’Brien’s available, he would be the preference, but there have been strange usage patterns against Cincinnati. 

Under the Hood

With the score tied at the top of the ninth, Jeff Hoffman allowed two home runs leading off the inning. Jackson Chourio and Christian Yelich went back-to-back against the closer. After recording an out, he issued Sal Frelick a walk and gave up a two-out RBI double by Isaac Collins, prompting his removal. He suffered his sixth loss, giving up three hits, three earned runs, and a walk during two-thirds of an inning. Hoffman has allowed multiple runs in two of his last three appearances and at least a run in three of his previous four.

Before delving into his recent results, here were the thoughts of his manager following today’s meltdown:

This has been an ongoing process for Hoffman and his manager. He has some struggles, gets on the hot seat, then rebounds with consecutive scoreless appearances. However, after this game, Hoffman moved into a tie for the most home runs allowed by a reliever (14) this season. From Saturday’s loss, his illustrator:

And, his results:

Both home runs were hit on away pitches. Still, it’s a trend he must overcome with just over a month remaining in the regular season, and he acknowledged this in his postgame presser, covered in Keegan Matheson’s game recap for MLB.com:

There are no easy answers for the implosions within his data, but the rising WHIP with fewer whiffs since the All-Star break make things difficult for the closer:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/6Tzfs/3/

Hoffman’s struggles coincide with recent trends for his high-leverage teammates, which makes a changing of the guard difficult for Schneider. Fantasy players in their head-to-head playoffs may prefer benching Toronto’s closer given recent results. As for a clear replacement, the choices are limited on the roster, which means he will remain in the role until his manager states otherwise.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Saturday.

Leverage Ledger

Arizona Diamondbacks – After beginning his warmup for a save chance, Jake Woodford closed out a five-run win over the Dodgers with a clean bottom of the ninth, facing the 7-8-9 lineup pocket. He threw ten pitches (70% strike rate) without a whiff but recorded a strikeout. There are no defined roles in this leverage ladder, but it appears he’s firmly in the mix for save chances based on recent usage patterns.

Andrew Saalfrank took over at the bottom of the seventh, walking Shohei Ohtani,i then letting his only inherited runner score on a Mookie Betts RBI single, and retiring Will Smith, ending the inning. He returned for the eighth and retired the 4-5-6 hitters in order. Saalfrank secured his second hold, logging 1.1 scoreless innings, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out one. He’s the other half of our adjusted save share.

Updated Hierarchy: *Andrew Saalfrank | *Jake Woodford | Kyle Backhus

*= closer-by-committee

Chicago Cubs – Nailing down his 21st save and preserving a one-run lead in Coors, Daniel Palencia retired the side and recorded two strikeouts. He threw 13 pitches (61.5% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).

Through 11 games in August, he has allowed a run in five but converted seven of eight save opportunities while posting a 1.65 WHIP with 14 strikeouts against four walks across 10.1 innings.

  • Brad Keller fired a clean eighth, notching his 22nd hold.
  • Andrew Kittredge worked a clean seventh and recorded a strikeout for his 13th hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Andrew Kittredge

Cleveland Guardians – Locking down his ninth save and preserving a one-run lead, Cade Smith fired a clean ninth, striking out the side against Seattle’s 5-6-7 lineup pocket. He also induced an inning-ending groundout by Josh Naylor, ending the eighth. Smith finished with 1.1 clean frames, throwing 16 pitches (62.5% strike rate) and producing three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%).

He has allowed one baserunner over his last three appearances, recording a win and two saves.

  • Hunter Gaddis allowed a walk and Julio Rodríguez’s two-run home run during his two-thirds of the eighth, getting credit for his 29th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis | Eric Sabrowski

Kansas City Royals – Sealing a two-run lead and recording his American League-leading 36th save, Carlos Estévez navigated around Riley Greene’s one-out double with a groundout and a game-ending flyout. He threw 23 pitches (69.6% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (8.7 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to seven despite allowing his first baserunner since August 13.

  • Lucas Erceg collected his sixth win, retiring the side and striking out one at the top of the eighth ahead of his team’s two-run rally at the bottom of the frame.
  • Angel Zerpa stranded two runners while retiring his only batter in the seventh.
  • John Schreiber gave up two hits during two-thirds scoreless in the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber

Los Angeles Angels – Handed a three-run lead, Kenley Jansen walked lead-off hitter Jesús Sánchez, then retired Christian Walker via flyout, induced a pop-out by Yainer Diaz, and a game-ending flyout by Cam Smith to secure his 24th save. He threw 11 pitches (63.6% strike rate) without a whiff.

This marks his first save since August 13 and a second consecutive scoreless outing.

  • José Fermin worked a clean bottom of the eighth, striking out two, and collected his third win courtesy of a three-run rally at the top of the ninth.
  • Reid Detmers tossed a scoreless seventh, walking and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Reid Detmers | Luis García

Miami Marlins – Despite allowing a one-out walk and a two-out single, Tyler Phillips preserved a three-run win against the Mets with a game-ending strikeout of Starling Marte for his third save. He threw 15 pitches (60% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%).

It’s his second save in his last three appearances.

  • Ronny Henriquez notched his 21st hold, walking and striking out one during a scoreless eighth, facing the top of the lineup.
  • Calvin Faucher took over a tied game with a runner at second and two outs at the bottom of the sixth, and worked 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out one. He collected his fourth win as a result. 

Hierarchy Remains: *Calvin Faucher | *Ronny Henriquez | *Tyler Phillips

*= closer-by-committee

Milwaukee Brewers – Capping his team’s three-run rally at the top of the ninth, Abner Uribe secured his fourth save, recording a strikeout of Vlad Guerrero Jr., allowing a single by Bo Bichette, then inducing a game-ending double play groundout against Alejandro Kirk. Uribe threw 13 pitches (53.8% strike rate) and produced one whiff while extending his scoreless streak to 17 games.

Since July 22, he has converted two saves and eight holds, posting a 0.824 WHIP with 19 strikeouts against five walks (22.3 K-BB%) over his last 17 innings.

  • Aaron Ashby stranded a runner and retired his only batter in the eighth, earning his third win.
  • Nick Mears allowed a hit and struck out one during two-thirds scoreless in the eighth.
  • Jared Koenig fired a clean seventh, striking out the side.

Hierarchy Remains: Abner Uribe | Shelby Miller | Jared Koenig

New York Yankees – Presented a three-run lead at the bottom of the 11th, Camilo Doval recorded his 16th save of the year, and first with his new team, letting the “place” runner score on consecutive groundouts ahead of a game-ending strikeout.

David Bednar earned his fifth win, logging two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out one across the ninth and tenth innings. He threw 22 pitches (77.3% strike rate) and induced three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%).

  • Luke Weaver allowed a hit and struck out one during a scoreless bottom of the eighth.
  • Devin Williams suffered his fourth blown save, giving up two hits, including Chase Meidroth’s game-tying RBI single, and recorded two strikeouts during the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: David Bednar | Luke Weaver | Devin Williams

Philadelphia Phillies – Although he let the “place” runner score at the top of the tenth on an RBI single by Nacho Alvarez Jr., Matt Strahm collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning.

Jhoan Duran fired a clean ninth, keeping the game tied, and recorded two strikeouts while facing Atlanta’s 4-5-6 lineup pocket. He threw 14 pitches (57.1% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).

After working in back-to-back games, he recorded a 1.031 WHIP with eight saves in nine chances and 13 strikeouts (33.3 K-BB%) over 9.2 innings.

  • Tanner Banks gave up a hit during a scoreless eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Duran | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

St. Louis Cardinals – Taking over at the bottom of the eighth, Kyle Leahy logged 1.1 scoreless innings, navigating around two hits in the ninth, recording his first save of the season, second of his career. He threw 16 pitches (87.5% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%). He was the last man standing, and Riley O’Brien did not warm up for the save chance in back-to-back games.

  • JoJo Romero appeared in a third straight game, stranding his only inherited runner during the seventh, producing an inning-ending double play groundout. Returning for the eighth, he retired the first two batters before being removed, getting credit for 1.1 scoreless innings while only facing three batters for his 20th hold.
  • Jorge Alcala allowed a solo home run and a walk while retiring one batter in the seventh for his fourth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: *JoJo Romero | *Riley O’Brien | Matt Svanson

*= closer-by-committee

Tampa Bay Rays – Recording his first save with the Rays, and his third this season, Bryan Baker fired a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out one against Washington’s 6-7-8 lineup pocket. He threw 11 pitches (63.6% strike rate) and induced one whiff.

He has been scoreless in seven of his last eight outings, posting a 0.375 WHIP with nine strikeouts against one walk.

  • Griffin Jax worked a scoreless bottom of the eighth, walking one and striking out two, notching his 26th hold.
  • Mason Englert logged two innings, giving up three hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out three. 

Pete Fairbanks was not used after throwing 22 pitches on Friday. He has already set career-highs in appearances (51) and innings (50.1) this season, which may result in a managed workload for the remainder of the season. This puts Baker and Edwin Uceta in play for ancillary saves down the stretch.

Hierarchy Remains: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Garrett Cleavinger

Quick Hits

  • Atlanta Braves: Called upon with the bases loaded and one out at the bottom of the tenth, Dylan Dodd recorded a strikeout against Brandon Marsh, then gave up Trea Turner’s walk-off two-RBI single, resulting in his first blown save. Hunter Stratton allowed a hit, two runs (one earned), and struck out one during one-third of the eighth, getting tagged with his first loss. Raisel Iglesias fired a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out one.
  • Chicago White Sox: Summoned at the top of the 11th, Tyler Alexander allowed three hits, three runs (two earned), and a walk, resulting in his 13th loss. Grant Taylor worked a scoreless tenth, walking and striking out one. Jordan Leasure fired a clean ninth, striking out two.
  • Cincinnati Reds: Appearing in a loss, Zach Maxwell allowed a solo home run by Pedro Pagés and recorded three strikeouts at the top of the eighth. He threw 19 pitches (68.4% strike rate) and produced five whiffs (26.3 SwStr%).
  • Colorado Rockies: During an eventual one-run loss, Victor Vodnik retired the side at the top of the ninth against the Cubs, throwing 17 pitches (64.7% strike rate) with two whiffs (11.8 SwStr%). He has been scoreless over his last eight appearances while posting a minuscule 0.23 WHIP with nine strikeouts across 8.2 innings.
  • Detroit Tigers: Entering a tied game at the bottom of the eighth, Tyler Holton issued a walk and served up Bobby Witt Jr.’s go-ahead two-run home run, resulting in his fourth loss. 
  • Houston Astros: A rare meltdown, and an untimely one for Bryan Abreu. He allowed four hits, three earned runs, and two walks while striking out two during two-thirds of the ninth, resulting in his fourth loss. It began with a strikeout, followed by four consecutive singles, another strikeout, and successive walks, forcing his removal. Enyel De Los Santos stranded the bases loaded with an inning-ending strikeout against Taylor Ward.
  • New York Mets: Making a non-save appearance, Edwin Díaz allowed three hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out three at the top of the ninth against Miami. He has not had a save chance since August 16 and has received sporadic work since.
  • San Diego Padres: Padding his league lead in wins by a reliever, Adrian Morejon retired the side at the bottom of the sixth, collecting his 11th of the season. Jason Adam fired a clean seventh. Jeremiah Estrada allowed a hit and struck out one in a scoreless eighth. Alek Jacob worked a clean ninth, finishing a nine-run road victory.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

This year, the daily emails have changed. Those interested in daily free updates with links should subscribe to our page at Substack. Subscribers to the former site will not transfer over; readers must register using the new link.

Premium subscribers can still use this link for daily, ad-free content or submit a rest-of-the-season $15 payment via Venmo to @gjewett9.

If you would like to leave a tip, please use this link for PayPal. Venmo can be sent to the address above.

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

BaseballSavant.com

BrooksBaseball.net

Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 30

Friday’s full slate tilted towards relievers who recorded seven wins against five losses while securing nine saves. Three relievers recorded their first save of the season. Two of the nine saves required more than three outs. Here they are in condensed form:

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for August 30

  • Riley O’Brien (STL): If he’s available, he should be the preferred option in the ninth. JoJo Romero has pitched in back-to-back games. 

Under the Hood

Entering with a one-run lead, Andrés Muñoz allowed a lead-off double by Nolan Jones, followed by Brayan Rocchio’s game-tying RBI single, though the throw from home took a strange hop going wide of home plate, letting Rocchio reach third. Facing Steven Kwan, Muñoz induced a flyout, but it was a walk-off sacrifice fly, resulting in his second loss and a seventh blown save. He finished with two hits and two runs (one earned) during one-third of an inning. First, his illustrator:

And, his results:

He has allowed at least a run in four of his last five appearances, and multiple hits in three. As the first chart will show, he has been working with reduced velocity since June:

This coincides with a declining strikeout percentage while allowing more contact:

For the visual crowd, like myself, his splits by month and half in 2025:

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

This could be as simple as fatigue, but it’s tough to provide a closer with extra rest while trying to qualify for a postseason berth. Keep tabs on his velocity, WHIP, and results through September.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Friday.

Leverage Ledger

Arizona Diamondbacks – Capping a combined shutout against the Dodgers, Jake Woodford recorded his second save, entering against the Dodgers’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket and allowing a two-out walk to Teoscar Hernández ahead of a game-ending strikeout of Dalton Rushing. He threw 19 pitches (57.9% strike rate) and induced one whiff.

This marked his first usage in the ninth inning as the point of entry and only his second appearance this month, not as a multi-inning reliever.

  • Kyle Backhus secured his ninth hold, retiring the side versus the 9-1-2 hitters in the eighth.
  • Jalen Beeks gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless seventh for his 13th hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Andrew Saalfrank | Jake Woodford | Kyle Backhus

Detroit Tigers – Despite allowing Kyle Isbel’s lead-off single, Will Vest induced a double play groundout by Mike Yastrzemski and a game-ending flyout by Bobby Witt Jr., securing his 20th save while preserving a two-run lead. He threw 12 pitches (58.3% strike rate) and produced one whiff.

Kyle Finnegan did the heavy lifting in this contest. He took over at the bottom of the seventh and stranded a runner, then returned for the eighth, retiring the side. He was awarded his fourth win, logging 1.2 scoreless frames while issuing a walk and striking out three on 22 pitches (59.1% strike rate) with five whiffs (22.7 SwStr%).

  • Troy Melton allowed three hits and recorded a strikeout over 1.2 scoreless innings for his second hold.
  • Tyler Holton tossed a scoreless combined inning, walking two and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: *Kyle Finnegan | *Will Vest | Tyler Holton

*= closer-by-committee

Houston Astros – Completing a combined shutout and recording his first save of the season, Kaleb Ort stranded the bases loaded at the top of the eighth, then retired the side in the ninth. He threw 21 pitches (71.4% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (14.3 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts.

He has been scoreless in his last three appearances, posting multiple strikeouts in each (7 strikeouts of 11 batters faced).

  • Craig Kimbrel gets credit for his first hold, issuing three walks and striking out two during two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Enyel De Los Santos collected his fifth win, yielding two hits and striking out one in the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Bryan Abreu | Bryan King | Kaleb Ort

Minnesota Twins – Navigating around two walks, Kody Funderburk recorded his first save of the year, and second of his career, with a strikeout and a game-ending flyout by Fernando Tatis Jr. He threw 23 pitches (47.8% strike rate) and induced one whiff. It appears Rocco Baldelli has returned to a full-blown match-up-based approach.

  • Cole Sands fired a clean eighth, striking out two for his 11th hold.
  • Justin Topa allowed two hits, an earned run, and a walk at the top of the seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: *Justin Topa | *Cole Sands | *Kody Funderburk

*= closer-by-committee

Philadelphia Phillies – Shutting the door on his 24th save, Jhoan Duran fired a clean top of the ninth, preserving a one-run lead while facing Atlanta’s 9-1-2 lineup pocket. He threw 12 pitches (58.3% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%), resulting in two strikeouts.

Through 11 games in August, he has a 0-2 record with eight saves in nine chances, posting a 1.149 WHIP with 11 strikeouts versus zero walks (30.6 K-BB%) across 8.2 innings.

  • Orion Kerkering allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless top of the eighth, then collected his seventh win when his team took the lead at the bottom of the frame.
  • Matt Strahm worked around a hit and a walk for a scoreless seventh.
  • David Robertson fired a clean sixth, striking out two.

Updated Hierarchy: Jhoan Duran | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

Pittsburgh Pirates – Preserving a two-run margin at Boston, Dennis Santana issued a one-out walk and recorded two strikeouts during a scoreless ninth, locking down his 11th save. He threw 13 pitches (61.5% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in eight of his last nine games, going 1-1 while converting all five save chances with a 0.778 WHIP and eight strikeouts against two walks (18.1 K-BB%) over nine innings.

  • Isaac Mattson notched his seventh hold, giving up a hit and striking out one during a scoreless eighth.
  • Dauri Moreta allowed a hit during a scoreless seventh for his first hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Dennis Santana | Isaac Mattson | Kyle Nicolas

St. Louis Cardinals – Taking over with a two-run lead at the bottom of the tenth, Ryan Fernandez issued Gavin Lux a lead-off walk, then recorded a strikeout, a flyout, and a game-ending strikeout while facing the Reds’ 1-2-3 hitters for his first save of the season, third of his career. He threw 21 pitches (61.9% strike rate) and generated seven whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in his last three outings.

  • Matt Svanson collected his third win, stranding two runners at the bottom of the eighth and logging 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out three.
  • JoJo Romero recorded an out and issued two walks before being removed in the eighth. He has given up nine walks through 13 innings in August (14.8 BB%).
  • Gordon Graceffo suffered his first blown save, allowing three hits and two earned runs while striking out three during his 1.1 innings. 

Per Katie Woo, Riley O’Brien was unavailable for this game. For now: 

Hierarchy Remains: *JoJo Romero | *Riley O’Brien | Matt Svanson

*= closer-by-committee

Tampa Bay Rays – Handed a three-run lead at Washington, Pete Fairbanks retired the first two batters he faced, gave up Josh Bell’s two-out single, followed by a Brady House double, before a game-ending strikeout, securing his 23rd save. He threw 22 pitches (68.2% strike rate) and induced two whiffs while recording two strikeouts.

This was his tenth appearance in August, during which he had a loss and converted five of six save opportunities with a 0.80 WHIP across ten innings.

  • Bryan Baker allowed a hit during a scoreless eighth, notching his 16th hold.
  • Garrett Cleavinger recorded his 20th hold, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out three in a scoreless seventh.
  • Brian Van Belle collected his first career win, tossing two scoreless frames and scattering two hits.

Hierarchy Remains: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Garrett Cleavinger

Texas Rangers – Making an extended outing, Shawn Armstrong secured his fifth save, retiring five of six batters faced; his only blemish was a two-out walk in the ninth to JJ Bleday,  while preserving a three-run win over the A’s. He threw 18 pitches (61.1% strike rate) and induced one whiff while extending his scoreless streak to 12 games, since July 29. In this streak, he has posted a 0.598 WHIP with 13 strikeouts versus three walks (22.2 K-BB%) across 11.2 innings with two saves and two holds.

  • Hoby Milner notched his 16th hold, working 1.1 clean frames and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: *Shawn Armstrong | *Hoby Milner | Phil Maton

*= closer-by-committee

Quick Hits

  • Atlanta Braves:  With the score tied at the bottom of the eighth, Dylan Lee allowed two hits and an earned run during his one-third of an inning, resulting in his fourth loss. Pierce Johnson let one of two inherited runners score on a sacrifice fly, giving up a hit and a walk during two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Boston Red Sox: Summoned at the top of the sixth with two runners on and one out, Greg Weissert allowed two hits, letting both inherited runners score, and an earned run on his ledger while striking out one, resulting in his fifth loss along with an eighth blown save.
  • Cincinnati Reds: Tasked with the top of the tenth, Tony Santillan retired his first two batters, then Willson Contreras reached on a throwing error by Elly De La Cruz, scoring the “place” runner, issued Nolan Gorman a walk, then gave up Masyn Winn’s RBI single before an inning-ending pop-out. Although he had two unearned runs on a hit, Santillan was charged with his fifth loss.
  • Cleveland Guardians: Escaping with a scoreless top of the ninth, despite allowing three hits, Tim Herrin collected his fifth win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. Jakob Junis tossed two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out one. 
  • Colorado Rockies: In an eventual four-run loss, Victor Vodnik retired the side at the top of the ninth on eight pitches (75% strike rate). He has been scoreless over his last seven appearances, but has not had a save chance since August 16.
  • Los Angeles Angels: Entering a tied game at the bottom of the eighth, Luis García suffered his first loss, giving up two hits, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out one in Houston. 
  • Milwaukee Brewers: Albeit a non-save appearance, Abner Uribe sealed a five-run win in Toronto, allowing Bo Bichette’s lead-off single, then retiring the next three batters. He threw 11 pitches (63.6% strike rate) without a whiff. This extended his scoreless streak to 16 games, during which he has a save and eight holds with a 0.813 WHIP and 18 strikeouts against five walks over 16 innings.
  • San Francisco Giants: Forced into action at the top of the fifth with a runner on and one out, Spencer Bivens fired 1.2 clean frames and collected his third win against Baltimore.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

This year, the daily emails have changed. Those interested in daily free updates with links should subscribe to our page at Substack. Subscribers to the former site will not transfer over; readers must register using the new link.

Premium subscribers can still use this link for daily, ad-free content or submit a rest-of-the-season $15 payment via Venmo to @gjewett9.

If you would like to leave a tip, please use this link for PayPal. Venmo can be sent to the address above.

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

BaseballSavant.com

BrooksBaseball.net

Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 29

Thursday’s eight-game slate yielded five reliever wins and five saves, while suffering six losses. There was also a three-inning save during a major league debut. Here are the saves in condensed form.

Vulture Save Option for August 29

  • Kaleb Ort (HOU): Bryan Abreu and Bryan King have appeared in back-to-back contests. 

Under the Hood

With the score tied at the bottom of the ninth, Daniel Palencia allowed three consecutive one-out singles, including Jung Hoo Lee’s RBI walk-off, resulting in his fourth loss. He threw 13 pitches (69.2% strike rate) and induced one whiff in this outing. First, his illustrator:

And, the results in this outing:

He has now allowed a run in five of his ten appearances in August, posting a 1.828 WHIP with 12 strikeouts against four walks over 9.2 innings. The good news is that he has converted six of seven save opportunities; however, the rising contact rates must be monitored going forward. This chart does not include Thursday’s outing, but there are trends we must track closely through the end of the season:

Since the All-Star break, he has posted a 1.533 WHIP over 13.2 innings. It’s fueled by a .410 batting average on balls in play (BAbip), which will not be sustainable, but when his walk rate approaches his swinging strike percentage, it narrows the window for success during save situations.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Thursday.

Leverage Ledger

Arizona Diamondbacks – In a herculean effort, Taylor Rashi recorded a save during his major league debut, logging three scoreless frames, scattering two hits, and issuing walks while striking out three. He wriggled out of two runners on and two outs at the bottom of the ninth by inducing a game-ending groundout by pinch-hitter Christian Yelich. Rashi threw a season high 62 pitches (he threw 54 two times at Triple-A) and 31 strikes while producing seven whiffs (11.3 SwStr%).

He worked more than two innings nine times before his promotion and became the 16th reliever with a save for the franchise this year.

  • Jalen Beeks retired his only batter while stranding a runner at the bottom of the sixth for his 12th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrew Saalfrank | John Curtiss | Kyle Backhus

Boston Red Sox – Despite allowing a lead-off double by Dylan Carlson, Steven Matz recorded his second save, first with Boston, inducing a fielder’s choice grounder, retiring Carlson at third, followed by consecutive flyouts, preserving the one-run lead. He threw 12 pitches (58.3% strike rate) without a whiff. This also represents the second save of his career, and the first not requiring more than three outs.

  • Garrett Whitlock notched his 21st hold, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
  • Jordan Hicks navigated around a hit and a walk for a scoreless seventh, then collected his second win courtesy of a go-ahead rally at the top of the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Garrett Whitlock | Jordan Hicks

Houston Astros – Sealing his team’s one-run lead, Bryan Abreu worked around Mickey Moniak’s one-out single with a flyout and a game-ending strikeout, locking down his fourth save. He threw 11 pitches (90.9% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).

Through 12 games in August, he has posted a 0.615 WHIP with 16 strikeouts against three walks (27 K-BB%) across 12 scoreless frames while converting all four save chances.

  • Bryan King collected his fourth win, tossing a scoreless eighth, walking and striking out one.
  • Kaleb Ort stranded two runners and retired both batters faced via strikeout in the seventh.
  • Steven Okert issued two walks and recorded one out in the seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: Bryan Abreu | Bryan King | Kaleb Ort

Miami Marlins – Shutting the door on his 13th save, Calvin Faucher retired the side and recorded a strikeout while closing out a three-run lead against the Mets’ 9-1-2 hitters. He threw seven pitches (85.7% strike rate) with one whiff (14.3 SwStr%).

He has converted a save in his last two appearances and three in August across ten appearances.

  • Ronny Henriquez stranded a runner at the bottom of the seventh and logged 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out two for his 20th hold.
  • Cade Gibson collected his third win, working 1.1 scoreless innings, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out three.

Hierarchy Remains: *Calvin Faucher | *Ronny Henriquez | *Tyler Phillips

*= closer-by-committee

St. Louis Cardinals – Facing the 7-8-9 lineup pocket, JoJo Romero erased a lead-off single by Jared Triolo by inducing a double play groundout and preserved a three-run margin with a game-ending pop-out for his fifth save. He threw 12 pitches (66.7% strike rate) and recorded one whiff.

It’s been a busy August for the southpaw; he has logged 12 appearances with a 1-2 record while converting five of six save chances, posting a 1.575 WHIP across 12.2 innings.

  • Riley O’Brien retired the side in the eighth, securing his sixth hold against the 4-5-6 hitters.
  • Kyle Leahy logged two scoreless frames, walking two and striking out four, collecting his fourth win.

Hierarchy Remains: *JoJo Romero | *Riley O’Brien | Matt Svanson

*= closer-by-committee

Quick Hits

  • Baltimore Orioles: Rico Garcia allowed a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one at the top of the eighth, resulting in his first loss.
  • Chicago White Sox: White Sox: Although he stranded a runner at the top of the fourth, Tyler Alexander was tagged with his 12th loss, giving up four hits and two earned runs while striking out two across 2.1 innings. 
  • Colorado Rockies: Taking over a tied game at the bottom of the eighth against Houston’s 4-5-6 lineup pocket, Luis Peralta allowed Christian Walker’s lead-off home run, walked Yordan Alvarez, induced a double play groundout against Cam Smith, and an inning-ending groundout, but the damage had been done, resulting in his second loss.
  • New York Mets: During a tied game at the top of the seventh, Gregory Soto allowed Jacob Marsee’s lead-off single, had a batter reach on an error, then gave up an Agustín Ramírez single, with another error by Brandon Nimmo. Soto finished with three hits and three unearned runs while recording a strikeout in one-third of an inning, suffering his fifth loss.
  • New York Yankees: Devin Williams fired a clean bottom of the eighth, striking out the side on 13 pitches (69.2% strike rate) and generating five whiffs (38.5 SwStr%). He has been scoreless in seven of his last eight games and registered multiple strikeouts in his last four (10 strikeouts of 14 batters faced). Luke Weaver notched his 16th hold, tossing a clean seventh and striking out two. He threw 10 pitches (80% strike rate) and induced two whiffs.
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Called upon at the bottom of the sixth with a runner on, Yohan Ramírez stranded him. However, things did not go as well in the seventh when he allowed Jordan Walker’s go-ahead two-run home run, resulting in his second loss. He finished with two hits, three earned runs, and a walk during two-thirds combined innings.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

This year, the daily emails have changed. Those interested in daily free updates with links should subscribe to our page at Substack. Subscribers to the former site will not transfer over; readers must register using the new link.

Premium subscribers can still use this link for daily, ad-free content or submit a rest-of-the-season $15 payment via Venmo to @gjewett9.

If you would like to leave a tip, please use this link for PayPal. Venmo can be sent to the address above.

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

BaseballSavant.com

BrooksBaseball.net