Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 28

Almost half (seven) of the 15-game slate on Wednesday were games decided by five or more runs. Relievers recorded five wins and five saves, while suffering four losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

There are no vulture recommendations for August 28.

Hierarchy Change

Milwaukee Brewers – On the precipice of reaching a career high in innings for a season, Trevor Megill (flexor strain) has been placed on the 15-day injured list. Although Pat Murphy may mix-and-match, Abner Uribe should be the preferred target for fantasy players and the Brewers’ manager alike. He flashed his upside with a clean save on Monday, and leads all MLB relievers with 35 holds. He has been scoreless through 12 appearances in August, during which he has recorded this save and eight holds while posting a 0.833 WHIP with 18 strikeouts against four walks (31.1 K-BB%) over 12 innings.

In this interview, shared on X, Megill feels he will be able to return after two weeks. However, fantasy players should monitor his return-to-play protocols for any potential setbacks.

Updated Hierarchy: Abner Uribe | Shelby Miller | Jared Koenig

Here are the leverage events of interest from Wednesday’s slate.

Leverage Ledger

Arizona Diamondbacks – Summoned with a runner on and one out at the bottom of the eighth, Andrew Saalfrank retired both batters, one via strikeout, then returned for the ninth. After a Brandon Lockridge groundout, Andruw Monasterio hit a single, but was thrown out trying to stretch it into a double. Saalfrank recorded a strikeout against Brice Turang, nailing down his third save, logging 1.2 scoreless frames. He threw 29 pitches (62.1% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (10.3 SwStr%) while striking out two.

He has been scoreless in his last five outings, posting a 0.213 WHIP with five strikeouts and zero walks (31.3 K-BB%) across 4.2 innings.

  • Juan Burgos gets credit for his third hold, yielding two hits, including a solo home run by William Contreras, across two-thirds combined innings.
  • Kyle Backhus gave up a hit and two walks while striking out one during two-thirds of the seventh for his eighth hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Andrew Saalfrank | John Curtiss | Kyle Backhus

Boston Red Sox – Locking down his 26th save and extending his hitless streak to 14, Aroldis Chapman fired a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out the side, capping a comeback win in Baltimore. He threw 24 pitches (70.8% strike rate) and produced five whiffs (20.8 SwStr%).

He has converted all nine save chances during his streak since July 26 while posting a 0.342 WHIP with 14 strikeouts against four walks (25.6 K-BB%) across 11.2 scoreless frames.

  • Greg Weissert collected his sixth win, retiring the side and striking out one at the bottom of the eighth.
  • Justin Wilson stranded a runner while retiring his only batter in the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Garrett Whitlock | Jordan Hicks

Cleveland Guardians – Keeping the game tied at the top of the tenth, Cade Smith retired the side and recorded a strikeout while stranding the “place” runner. He collected his sixth win on his team’s walk-off rally. He threw seven pitches (85.7% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (28.6 SwStr%) in his outing.

Smith has bounced back with a win and a save during his consecutive scoreless appearances. Through 13 games in August, he has a 4-1 record with five saves in seven chances while posting a 0.827 WHIP with 14 strikeouts against two walks (23.6 K-BB%) over 13.1 innings.

  • Nic Enright stranded two inherited runners at the top of the seventh and logged 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit.
  • Eric Sabrowski walked two and struck out two during two-thirds scoreless in the seventh.
  • Matt Festa fired a clean sixth, striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis | Eric Sabrowski

Pittsburgh Pirates – Securing his tenth save, Dennis Santana issued a two-out walk, then induced a game-ending groundout, preserving a one-run lead in St. Louis. He threw 13 pitches (61.5% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%) while striking out one.

He has been scoreless in seven of his last eight appearances with a 1-1 record while converting all four save chances with a 0.75 WHIP and six strikeouts against two walks over eight innings.

  • Isaac Mattson notched his sixth hold, retiring the side and striking out one in the eighth.
  • Bubba Chandler earned his first win in his second major league appearance, logging four scoreless frames, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out three.

Hierarchy Remains: Dennis Santana | Isaac Mattson | Kyle Nicolas

Seattle Mariners – While recording his 31st save, Andrés Muñoz allowed a one-double by Jake Cronenworth and an RBI two-out double by Fernando Tatis Jr., before inducing a game-ending groundout against Ramón Laureano, finishing a one-run win over the Padres. He threw 19 pitches (73.7% strike rate) and produced one whiff. First, his illustrator:

And his results:

In 11 games this month, he has converted all seven save opportunities while recording a 1.455 WHIP with 12 strikeouts versus six walks (12.3 K-BB%) across 11 innings.

  • Eduard Bazardo notched his seventh hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the eighth.
  • Matt Brash worked a clean seventh, facing the 1-2-3 lineup pocket, securing his 17th hold.
  • Gabe Speier stranded two of three inherited runners, scoring a run on a bases-loaded hit-by-pitch, then recorded an inning-ending strikeout for his 19th hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

Tampa Bay Rays – With the score tied at the bottom of the tenth, Griffin Jax recorded an out on a sacrifice bunt, intentionally walked Steven Kwan, struck out Bryan Rocchio, then gave up Kyle Manzardo’s walk-off RBI single, resulting in his seventh loss. He finished with a hit, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out one over two-thirds of the tenth.

Pete Fairbanks suffered his fifth blown save, giving up a game-tying solo home run by Nolan Jones with one out at the bottom of the ninth on a hung slider:

He also recorded two strikeouts, throwing 13 pitches (69.2% strike rate) with two whiffs. He has allowed three home runs across his last three appearances and last secured a save on August 16.

  • Garrett Cleavinger stranded two runners at the bottom of the seventh, issuing a walk and striking out two over 1.1 scoreless frames for his 19th hold.
  • Edwin Uceta gets credit for his 17th hold despite allowing two hits and striking out one during two-thirds scoreless in the seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Garrett Cleavinger

Toronto Blue Jays – Bouncing back and preserving a one-run lead after an eighth inning rally, Jeff Hoffman recorded his 29th save, allowing Luke Keachall’s two-out double, then inducing a game-ending groundout by Brooks Lee. Hoffman threw 14 pitches (64.3% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%) while striking out one.

Despite his recent meltdowns, he has been scoreless in nine of 11 outings in August and he has the backing of his manager:

  • Seranthony Domínguez collected his third win, issuing two walks and striking out one during two-thirds scoreless in the eighth.
  • Justin Bruihl logged 1.1 scoreless frames while striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Seranthony Domínguez | Brendon Little

Quick Hits

  • Baltimore Orioles: After stranding two runners by retiring all three batters in the eighth, Keegan Akin returned for the ninth with a one-run lead. He allowed Jarren Duran’s lead-off single, followed by Cedanne Rafaela’s go-ahead two-run home run, then recorded three consecutive outs, but the damage had been done. Akin suffered his fourth loss and a sixth blown save, giving up two hits and two earned runs while striking out three during his two innings.
  • Houston Astros: Completing a combined shutout, Bryan Abreu fired a clean top of the ninth while striking out two on 12 pitches (66.7% strike rate) with four whiffs (33.3 SwStr%). This extended his scoreless streak to all 11 games in August, during which he has a 0.583 WHIP with 15 strikeouts versus three walks (27.3 K-BB%) across 12 innings. Bryan King recorded his 24th hold, yielding a hit and striking out two in the eighth.
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: Closing out a four-run win over the Reds, Blake Treinen navigated around a hit and a walk with three strikeouts during a scoreless top of the ninth. He threw 21 pitches (57.1% strike rate) and induced three whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).
  • Milwaukee Brewers: As the “bulk follower,” Erick Fedde suffered his 13th loss, allowing eight hits and two earned runs while striking out two across 4.1 innings. Nick Mears stranded a runner at the top of the seventh, but allowed Geraldo Perdomo’s solo home run at the top of the eighth.
  • Texas Rangers: Taking over at the top of the fifth, Jacob Webb logged 1.2 scoreless frames, walking one and striking out two. He collected his fifth win in the eventual lopsided contest.

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Statistical Credits:

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Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 27

Tuesday’s full 15-game slate provided a bevy of leverage events of interest. Relievers recorded seven wins and converted six saves while suffering seven losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

For the save streamers, another light forecast:

Vulture Save Option for August 27

  • Seranthony Domínguez (TOR): Hoffman has suffered consecutive blown saves and threw 25 pitches last night. He will benefit from a day off to clear his head. 

Three Takeaways

(1) A reset for Hoffman? For a fifth time this season, Jeff Hoffman allowed at least three earned runs in an outing. This one resulted in his second consecutive blown save and seventh of the season. He took over with a one-run lead at the top of the ninth and gave up Mickey Gasper’s game-tying solo home run, allowed a single, recorded an out, hit a batter, induced a flyout, then served up Matt Wallner’s go-ahead three-run home run. He finished with three hits, four earned runs, and a walk during two-thirds of an inning while incurring his fifth loss. First, his pitch illustrator:

And his results from Tuesday’s loss:

He was visibly upset during this outing, and when a reliever’s aiming his pitches, not hitting spots, outcomes like this ensue, reinforced by his results chart above. When he struggles, his command follows suit, as seen in his rolling game chart from Fangraphs:

His fastball velocity in August is sitting 1.1 miles per hour below his average from July, which may be manifesting in the spike in walk rate, seen in this chart:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/6Tzfs/2/

He has displayed the ability to overcome a rough patch, but it’s tough with a WHIP sitting at its present 1.505 this month. A day or two off may be beneficial.

(2) Avoid the Athletics? Proving timing can be almost everything, Eduarniel Núnez collected his first career win after stranding two inherited runners with an inning-ending strikeout of Javier Báez at the top of the tenth. Elvis Alvarado logged 1.2 innings, yielding a hit, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out four across the ninth and tenth innings. Michael Kelly navigated around a hit and a walk for a scoreless eighth. Tyler Ferguson tossed 1.1 scoreless frames while scattering two hits and stranding two runners at the top of the sixth. Hogan Harris allowed a hit and a walk while striking out two during his scoreless combined inning of relief.

Harris and Ferguson were separating themselves from their teammates as the preferred options for the late innings, recording three saves in a five-game span between August 19 and the 23rd. However, as this game shows, Mark Kotsay continues running a matchup-based approach, with no preferred save share, making this a bullpen to avoid for the fantasy playoffs and potentially the remainder of the season.

(3) Vest’s walk-off, walk: For a second time this season, Will Vest issued three walks in an appearance, previously on July 13, resulting in his fourth blown save at the time. Last night, he could not protect a one-run lead at the bottom of the tenth. His outing began with a Tyler Soderstrom single, followed by Jacob Wilson’s walk, a sacrifice bunt, Lawrence Butler’s walk, and a walk-off RBI walk to Darell Hernaiz, resulting in a third loss and a sixth blown save. He threw 23 pitches (39.1% strike rate) and induced two whiffs. His illustrator:

The good news is that he has rebounded from this type of outing, but I plan on Kyle Finnegan getting the save chance, if provided, in today’s contest.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Tuesday.

Leverage Ledger

Chicago White Sox – It was not an effective night for this bullpen. Jordan Leasure took over at the top of the eighth, allowing two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while recording two outs.

Grant Taylor let two of three inherited runners during the seventh, and suffered his fourth loss, finishing with four hits allowed and three earned runs while striking out two. He recorded one out in the eighth and ninth innings.

  • Tyler Alexander could not stem the tide, letting all three inherited runners score on two hits and hit a batter before his removal without recording an out.
  • Steven Wilson stranded the bases loaded, retiring both batters at the top of the ninth, one via strikeout. 

Hierarchy Remains: *Grant Taylor | *Jordan Leasure | *Steven Wilson

*= closer-by-committee

Cleveland Guardians – Completing a combined shutout, Cade Smith allowed a two-out single by Yandy Díaz and produced a game-ending strikeout, securing his eighth save. He threw 14 pitches (74.1% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).

This snapped his two-game blown save streak, allowing at least a run in his last three. It’s been a rough patch for the closer in training, but better days should lie ahead, evidenced by his 0.894 WHIP and 13 strikeouts versus two walks across 12.1 innings in August.

  • Hunter Gaddis notched his 28th hold, firing a clean seventh and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis | Eric Sabrowski

Kansas City Royals – Handed a one-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, Carlos Estévez shut the door on his 35th save, retiring the side and striking out two against the White Sox. He threw 16 pitches (68.8% strike rate) and produced four whiffs (25 SwStr%).

Not only has he converted his last five save opportunities, but he has not allowed a baserunner over his last six games while recording seven strikeouts (38.9 K%).

  • Sam Long collected his second win, giving up a hit during a scoreless eighth ahead of his team’s three-run rally at the top of the ninth.
  • Taylor Clarke tossed a clean seventh, striking out one.
  • John Schreiber worked a scoreless sixth, yielding a hit and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber

Los Angeles Dodgers – Recording his first save since July 12, and his 20th of the season, Tanner Scott preserved a three-run win over the Reds with a scoreless ninth, working around an Austin Hays one-out single with a game-ending double play groundout against Will Banfield. Scott threw 15 pitches (73.3% strike rate) and produced one whiff.

  • Blake Treinen allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless eighth, securing his seventh hold.
  • Ben Casparius gave up a walk and a two-run home run by Hays while striking out three in the seventh.
  • Edgardo Henriquez notched his second hold, allowing two hits during a scoreless sixth. 

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

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

Milwaukee Brewers – Forced into action at the top of the eighth, Shelby Miller struck out Ketel Marte, stranding two runners and keeping the game tied. He returned for the ninth and navigated around Corbin Carroll’s lead-off single with an intentional walk (Gabriel Moreno) and an inning-ending strikeout. He finished with 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out one, collecting his fourth win on a walk-off rally.

  • Jared Koenig let his only inherited runner score in the seventh. He was tagged with his second blown save, giving up five hits and two earned runs while striking out two during his combined inning of relief.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

Minnesota Twins – Presented a three-run lead after a four-run rally at the top of the ninth, Justin Topa allowed a two-out single by George Springer, followed by Daulton Varsho’s RBI double, before inducing a game-ending flyout by Vlad Guerrero Jr., securing his fourth save. He threw 26 pitches (69.2% strike rate) and produced four whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). He has converted all four save chances since August 5 with a 1.443 WHIP and eight strikeouts versus four walks across eight appearances, spanning 9.2 innings.

  • Michael Tonkin was awarded his second win. He allowed a hit and recorded two outs during the bottom of the ninth.
  • Kody Funderburk worked 1.1 clean frames and recorded a strikeout. 

Updated Hierarchy: Justin Topa | Michael Tonkin | Kody Funderburk

New York Mets – Called upon during a tied game at the top of the eighth, Edwin Díaz stranded a runner while retiring Brandon Marsh and Trea Turner via strikeout. Returning for the ninth, Díaz retired the 2-3-4 lineup pocket with two more strikeouts, finishing with 1.2 clean frames on 22 pitches (77.3% strike rate) and generating six whiffs (27.3 SwStr%).

He collected his sixth win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the ninth.

  • Ryan Helsley suffered his ninth blown save, giving up Harrison Bader’s game-tying two-run home run at the top of the eighth. He only recorded one out and was removed after issuing a walk following the homer. He has given up at least a run in five of his last seven appearances.
  • Tyler Rogers worked a clean seventh and struck out one for his 26th hold.

Adjusted Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | Tyler Rogers | Brooks Raley

San Diego Padres – Locking down his National League-leading 35th save, Robert Suarez retired the side against Seattle’s top of the lineup, throwing 14 pitches (57.1% strike rate) and inducing one whiff.

Through 11 appearances in August, he has a 1-1 record and converted five of six save chances with a 0.855 WHIP while recording 12 strikeouts against two walks across 11.2 innings.

  • Jeremiah Estrada notched his 27th hold, giving up a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
  • Mason Miller secured his fifth hold, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out two in a scoreless seventh.
  • Adrian Morejon collected his MLB-leading tenth win among all relievers, firing a clean sixth, striking out the side.
  • Jason Adam let his only inherited runner score, yielding two hits, including a three-run home by Eugenio Suárez, putting two earned runs on his ledger over two-thirds of the fifth.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Mason Miller | Jason Adam

San Francisco Giants – Working around a one-out single by Dansby Swanson, Ryan Walker retired the next two batters via strikeout, preserving a three-run lead and securing his 12th save. He threw 18 pitches (72.2% strike rate) and produced four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

He has converted saves in consecutive outings and has been scoreless in his last seven games, posting a 0.959 WHIP with ten strikeouts versus zero walks (25.9 K-BB%) over 7.1 innings.

  • José Buttó retired both batters and recorded one strikeout for his third hold.
  • Joey Lucchesi logged 1.1 clean frames, striking out two, and notched his second hold.

Before this game, Randy Rodríguez (elbow) was placed on the 15-day injured list:

Updated Hierarchy: Ryan Walker | José Buttó | Joey Lucchesi

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: Entering a tied game at the top of the ninth, Juan Morillo allowed a lead-off single by William Contreras, then issued consecutive walks to Christian Yelich and Andrew Vaughn, prompting his removal. Kyle Backhus induced a shallow fly-out by Sal Frelick, but Isaac Collins produced a walk-off sacrifice fly, handing Morillo his third loss. Andrew Saalfrank kept the game tied with a clean bottom of the eighth while striking out one.
  • Cincinnati Reds: In his second major league appearance, Zach Maxwell stranded a runner at the bottom of the sixth, but issued two walks and recorded a strikeout over 1.1 scoreless innings. He threw 24 pitches (54.2% strike rate) and induced three whiffs (12.5 SwStr%).
  • Miami Marlins: With the score tied at the top of the ninth, Tyler Zuber gave up a lead-off double and issued a one-out walk before being removed. However, he was tagged with his first loss when Josh Simpson let both inherited runners score. He only recorded one out during the ninth, giving up five hits, seven earned runs, and a walk. 
  • New York Yankees: Closing out a four-run win over Washington, David Bednar retired the side and recorded two strikeouts during a clean top of the ninth. He threw 13 pitches (53.8% strike rate) and induced one whiff. Camilo Doval worked a clean eighth, striking out two.
  • Philadelphia Phillies: Tasked with a tied score at the bottom of the ninth, Jhoan Duran allowed four consecutive singles, resulting in a walk-off rally and his sixth loss. He has allowed multiple hits in three straight outings. José Alvarado gave up a hit and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless eighth.
  • Seattle Mariners: Brought into a tied contest at the top of the sixth, Caleb Ferguson allowed three hits and two earned runs while retiring one batter, resulting in his fourth loss and a fifth blown save. 

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Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 26

Monday’s 13-game slate had seven games decided in blowout fashion (five or more runs), including three shutouts. Relievers did record four wins, though one was accompanied by a blown save (Riley O’Brien), and three saves while incurring two losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

Although our vulture save recommendation hit last night, there are no clear candidates in tonight’s slate. But there are four situations we should monitor:

W2W4 (What to Watch For)

  • Los Angeles Dodgers: Does Tanner Scott face the toughest left-handed hitter or lineup pocket, or used as a closer?
  • Milwaukee Brewers: How does Trevor Megill pitch? Over his last five appearances, he has a 2-1 record while converting two of three save chances with a 1.80 WHIP. His next outing will surpass his career high in innings as a major leaguer.
  • San Francisco Giants: Will Bob Melvin use Ryan Walker or Randy Rodríguez for the save?
  • The Athletics: It depends on lineup pockets in the late innings, but will Hogan Harris or Tyler Ferguson receive the next save opportunity?

Here are the leverage events of interest from Monday.

Leverage Ledger

Boston Red Sox – Locking down his 25th save, Aroldis Chapman retired the side while facing the Orioles’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket in order on seven pitches (57.1% strike rate) without a whiff.

This marks his 13th straight appearance without allowing a hit, and he has converted all seven save chances in this stretch while posting a 0.374 WHIP with 11 strikeouts versus four walks (19.5 K-BB%) over 10.2 innings.

  • Garrett Whitlock navigated around Gunnar Henderson’s lead-off double by striking out the next three batters, securing his 20th hold.
  • Steven Matz notched his tenth hold, logging two scoreless frames, scattering two hits, and striking out two.
  • Richard Fitts recorded his second win as the “bulk follower,” allowing two hits, three earned runs, and three walks while striking out six across four innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Garrett Whitlock | Jordan Hicks

Los Angeles Angels – Preserving a combined shutout in a non-save capacity, Kenley Jansen retired the Rangers’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket on ten pitches (70% strike rate) and induced one whiff. This snapped a two-game stretch of allowing at least a run and represents his first clean outing since August 13.

In the season, Jansen has averaged 92.8 miles per hour with his cutter. Over his last three appearances since his rib injury while lifting, he has averaged: 92.4, 91.6, and 92.1 last night. Hopefully, his velocity will return closer to his year-average as we progress.

  • Brock Burke worked a clean bottom of the eighth and recorded two strikeouts, securing his 14th hold.
  • Luis García stranded a runner while striking out his only batter, notching his eighth hold in the seventh.
  • Reid Detmers allowed a hit and struck out over a combined scoreless inning for his 12th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Reid Detmers | Luis García

Miami Marlins – Although he could not complete the combined shutout, allowing Drake Baldwin’s solo home run at the top of the ninth, Calvin Faucher held on for his 12th save, retiring the other three hitters, preserving a one-run win over Atlanta. He threw 18 pitches (50% strike rate) without a whiff and recorded one strikeout. It’s his first save since August 2, a span of seven appearances.

His pitch results from Monday’s outing:

  • Josh Simpson stranded a runner and retired his only batter at the top of the eighth, securing his second hold.
  • Tyler Zuber allowed a hit and struck out one over two-thirds of the eighth for his first hold.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Milwaukee Brewers – Making the most of his first save opportunity since July 20, Abner Uribe retired the side, recording two strikeouts while nailing down his third save, finishing a two-run win over Arizona. He threw 11 pitches (81.8% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).

He remains scoreless through 12 appearances in August, during which he has recorded this save and eight holds while posting a 0.833 WHIP with 18 strikeouts against four walks (31.1 K-BB%) over 12 innings.

  • Nick Mears stranded a runner while retiring both batters at the top of the eighth, securing his 16th hold.
  • Aaron Ashby logged 1.2 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out five for his third hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

Seattle Mariners – Capping his team’s win over the Padres, Andrés Muñoz allowed a one-out single by Will Wagner. Fernando Tatis Jr. reached on a throwing error by Eugenio Suárez, putting runners at second and third. Luis Arraez scored an unearned run on an RBI groundout, then Muñoz recorded a game-ending strikeout of Manny Machado in a non-save appearance. He threw 20 pitches (75% strike rate) and induced three whiffs (15 SwStr%). He has been scoreless in seven of ten appearances in August, converting all six save chances but with a 1.40 WHIP across ten innings.

  • Matt Brash navigated around two hits and a walk while striking out three in a scoreless eighth. 

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

St. Louis Cardinals – After stranding two runners by inducing an inning-ending double play groundout at the top of the eighth, Riley O’Brien returned for the ninth with a one-run lead. He recorded a quick out, but hit Liover Peguero with a pitch, who stole second base, then scored on Ronny Simon’s RBI double, resulting in a third blown save. However, he collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off home run at the bottom of the inning. O’Brien finished his 1.2 innings with a hit, an earned run, and a strikeout while throwing 21 pitches (57.1% strike rate) with two whiffs (9.5 SwStr%). His pitch illustrator:

And his results:

  • JoJo Romero gets credit for his 19th hold, but gave up a hit and a walk while recording one out at the top of the eighth. He threw 13 pitches (53.8% strike rate) without a whiff.
  • Patrick Leahy allowed a hit, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out one in the seventh for his 16th hold. 

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

*= closer-by-committee

The Athletics – Taking over at the top of the sixth, Sean Newcomb let both inherited runners score, allowing a two-RBI double by Wenceel Pérez, then induced a groundout, issued a walk, and recorded an inning-ending flyout. Back for the seventh, he gave up a two-out walk and a single, forcing his removal. He finished with two hits and two walks while striking out two over 1.1 scoreless frames.

Michael Kelly stranded both runners and worked 1.1 scoreless innings, yielding a hit and a walk, collecting his fourth win.

  • Elvis Alvarado fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout, preserving a five-run lead.

This usage pattern represents the third consecutive game Newcomb has recorded four or more outs in the bridge innings, removing him from the save equation for now.

Updated Hierarchy: *Tyler Ferguson | *Hogan Harris | Sean Newcomb

*= closer-by-committee

Quick Hits

  • New York Mets: José Castillo collected his first win after retiring the side at the top of the fifth.
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Tasked with a tied game at the bottom of the ninth, Dennis Santana recorded two quick outs, then gave up Alec Burleson’s walk-off solo home run, resulting in his fifth loss and snapping his six-game scoreless streak.
  • San Diego Padres: Summoned at the bottom of the fourth, David Morgan stranded a runner with an inning-ending strikeout. Returning for the fifth, things went sideways. He suffered his second loss, giving up two hits, five earned runs, a hit batter, and two walks while striking out two over his combined inning of relief.

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Closer Monkey Updated Rankings | 8.25.2025

Recognizing that ranking relievers can become outdated within hours, Closer Monkey’s updated rankings incorporate in-season results with rest-of-season potential, yielding a number often worth debating. Each week, we are providing saves, SOLDS, and holds rankings. They are a combination of season-to-date, the last 14-day results, and rest-of-season projections, causing fluctuations in reliever valuation.

Updated Top 40 Relievers for Saves

RankRelievers
1Jhoan Durán
2Robert Suarez
3Andrés Muñoz
4Edwin Díaz
5Carlos Estévez
6Aroldis Chapman
7Raisel Iglesias
8Jeff Hoffman
9Trevor Megill
10Bryan Abreu
11David Bednar
12Daniel Palencia
13Pete Fairbanks
14Emilio Pagán
15Kyle Finnegan
16Will Vest
17Tanner Scott
18Cade Smith
19JoJo Romero
20Kenley Jansen
21Dennis Santana
22Jose A. Ferrer
23Victor Vodnik
24Ryan Walker
25Randy Rodríguez
26Riley O’Brien
27Calvin Faucher
28Andrew Saalfrank
29Keegan Akin
30Mason Miller
31Shawn Armstrong
32Justin Topa
33Adrian Morejon
34Hogan Harris
35Tyler Ferguson
36Matt Brash
37Hunter Gaddis
38Sean Newcomb
39Tyler Phillips
40Devin Williams

Save Stashes or Steam Options for Week 23

  • Abner Uribe (MIL)
  • John Curtiss (ARI)
  • Justin Slaten (BOS) – when activated
  • Reid Detmers/Luis García (LAA) – in case the rib issue for Kenley Jansen lingers.

Top 75 for SOLDS

RankReliever
1Jhoan Duran
2Andrés Muñoz
3Bryan Abreu
4Robert Suarez
5Abner Uribe
6Aroldis Chapman
7Trevor Megill
8Mason Miller
9Edwin Díaz
10Jeff Hoffman
11Jason Adam
12Adrian Morejon
13Jeremiah Estrada
14David Bednar
15Brad Keller
16Daniel Palencia
17Tanner Scott
18Kyle Finnegan
19Will Vest
20JoJo Romero
21Luke Weaver
22Hunter Gaddis
23Carlos Estévez
24Raisel Iglesias
25Matt Brash
26Pete Fairbanks
27Cade Smith
28Jose A. Ferrer
29Matt Strahm
30Dennis Santana
31Orion Kerkering
32Tony Santillan
33Emilio Pagán
34Edwin Uceta
35Ronny Henriquez
36Ryan Walker
37Kenley Jansen
38John Schreiber
39Riley O’Brien
40Andrew Kittredge
41Jared Koenig
42Gregory Soto
43Lucas Erceg
44Reid Detmers
45Ryan Helsley
46Tyler Rogers
47Devin Williams
48Jimmy Herget
49Shawn Armstrong
50Randy Rodríguez
51Garrett Whitlock
52Brendon Little
53Seranthony Domínguez
54Caleb Thielbar
55Tanner Banks
56Eric Sabrowski
57Dylan Lee
58Victor Vodnik
59Graham Ashcraft
60Bryan Baker
61Bryan King
62Tyler Phillips
63Calvin Faucher
64Andrew Saalfrank
65Luis García
66Garrett Cleavinger
67Matt Svanson
68Blake Treinen
69Alex Vesia
70Hoby Milner
71Griffin Jax
72Keegan Akin
73Tyler Holton
74Pierce Johnson
75Scott Barlow

Reliever on the Rise

  • John Schreiber (KC): Over the last 14 days, he has recorded a win, a save, and five holds (six SOLDS), 0.15 WHIP, six strikeouts versus one walk (25 K-BB%), across 6.2 innings.
  • Tanner Banks (PHI): He has recorded two wins and two holds with a 0.60 WHIP in his last five innings.

Top 50 for Holds

RankReliever
1Jason Adam
2Abner Uribe
3Adrian Morejon
4Brad Keller
5Mason Miller
6Jeremiah Estrada
7Luke Weaver
8Tyler Rogers
9Matt Brash
10Ronny Henriquez
11Orion Kerkering
12Tony Santillan
13Jared Koenig
14Hunter Gaddis
15Matt Strahm
16Edwin Uceta
17Jimmy Herget
18Riley O’Brien
19Caleb Thielbar
20Seranthony Domínguez
21Garrett Whitlock
22Reid Detmers
23Brendon Little
24Andrew Kittredge
25Tanner Banks
26Ryan Walker
27Lucas Erceg
28Eric Sabrowski
29Garrett Cleavinger
30Gregory Soto
31Dylan Lee
32Bryan Baker
33Blake Treinen
34Graham Ashcraft
35Gabe Speier
36David Robertson
37Kirby Yates
38Fernando Cruz
39Tyler Holton
40Bryan King
41Pierce Johnson
42Griffin Jax
43Matt Svanson
44Scott Barlow
45Nick Mears
46Ryan Helsley
47Alex Vesia
48Jordan Leasure
49PJ Poulin
50Grant Taylor

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.

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

Statistical Credits:

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BaseballSavant.com

BrooksBaseball.net

Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 25

It’s not as simple as saying there will be a changing of the guard for San Francisco. However, after the team rallied for a one-run lead in Milwaukee at the top of the ninth, Ryan Walker received the save opportunity. He worked around Sal Frelick’s two-out single and recorded two strikeouts during a scoreless outing, recording his 11th save. He threw 22 pitches (63.6% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%).

This marks his first save since May 25, and his recent stretch of scoreless outings, six since August 6, with eight strikeouts across 6.1 innings. After the game, this note was shared on X:

Results in August favor Walker, but this does not assure any change unless the injury issues linger:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/0wx1j/1/

It’s difficult for fantasy managers since Rodríguez was a breakout performer in the first half. However, his splits by inning are interesting:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/zg3b0/1/

If Rodríguez returns to save situations and performs well, this will revert, but for now:

Updated Hierarchy: *Ryan Walker | *Randy Rodríguez | José Buttó

*= closer-by-committee

Sunday’s full slate yielded five wins by relievers and seven saves while suffering four losses. There were two ancillary saves and only one requiring more than three outs. Here are yesterday’s saves in condensed form:

For the save streamers, a light forecast:

Vulture Save Option for August 25

  • Abner Uribe (MIL): Trevor Megill threw 34 pitches on Sunday and has appeared in three of the previous four games. 

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Sunday.

Leverage Ledger

Atlanta Braves – The good news is that Raisel Iglesias secured his 22nd save, and 11th in the second half, which leads all MLB relievers. However, he had his 13-game scoreless streak snapped, allowing three consecutive one-out singles, including an RBI by Juan Soto, before retiring the next two hitters, preserving the one-run win. He threw 24 pitches (62.5% strike rate) and induced one whiff.

Over his last 14 games, he has converted all 11 saves while posting a 0.571 WHIP with 12 strikeouts (24 K-BB%) across 14 innings.

  • Tyler Kinley collected his second win after retiring the side at the top of the eighth.
  • Dylan Lee stranded two runners despite issuing a walk, inducing an inning-ending groundout by Pete Alonso.
  • Pierce Johnson issued two walks and recorded a strikeout during two-thirds scoreless in the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Raisel Iglesias | Dylan Lee | Pierce Johnson

Baltimore Orioles – Forced into action at the top of the eighth with the bases loaded, Keegan Akin stranded two of three, giving up a sacrifice fly by Victor Caratini, then retiring Mauricio Dubón via lineout, ending the inning. Akin returned for the ninth and retired the Astros’ 8-9-1 lineup pocket in order by striking out the side for his third save. He logged 1.2 clean frames, throwing 21 pitches (66.7% strike rate) and generating five whiffs (23.8 SwStr%).

It’s been an up-and-down month for the reliever, but this represents one of his best appearances since returning from the injured list.

  • Rico Garcia gets credit for his third hold, but he gave up three hits, two of the infield variety, and an earned run during one-third of the eighth.

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

Chicago Cubs – Working around Luis Rengifo’s lead-off single and a one-out walk, Daniel Palencia recorded three strikeouts while securing his 20th save. He threw 26 pitches (61.5% strike rate) and produced five whiffs (19.2 SwStr%).

Through nine appearances in August, he has a 1-1 record while converting six of seven save chances with a 1.556 WHIP and 12 strikeouts against four walks (26.7 K-BB%) across nine innings.

  • Brad Keller notched his 21st hold, firing a clean bottom of the eighth and striking out one.
  • Caleb Thielbar gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless seventh for his 18th hold.
  • Andrew Kittredge allowed two hits and two runs (one earned) and struck out one in the sixth, getting credit for his 12th hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Andrew Kittredge

Kansas City Royals – Nailing down his American League-leading 34th save, Carlos Estévez fired a clean bottom of the ninth. He recorded one strikeout while preserving a two-run win in Detroit. He threw 11 pitches (81.8% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in his last five outings and converted all four save chances with five strikeouts through five clean innings.

  • Ben Bowlan notched his first hold, tossing a clean bottom of the eighth and striking out one.
  • Lucas Erceg gave up Spencer Torkelson’s solo shot while securing his 21st hold at the bottom of the seventh.
  • John Schreiber stranded a runner in the fifth and retired all four batters, three via strikeout, collecting his third win.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber

Miami Marlins – Reliever roulette landed on Tyler Phillips against the Blue Jays. He retired the 5-6-7 lineup pocket in order on six pitches (83.3% strike rate) without a whiff, inducing two groundouts and a game-ending pop-out. This represents his first save since July 26. 

  • Ronny Henriquez stranded two runners while striking out pinch-hitter, Vlad Guerrero Jr., at the game’s highest leverage point, notching his 19th hold.
  • Lake Bachar gets credit for his sixth hold, but he let both inherited runners score on Daulton Varsho’s home run at the top of the seventh. Bachar finished with a hit, an earned run, and two walks while striking out two over 1.2 innings.

Hierarchy Remains: *Calvin Faucher | *Anthony Bender | Ronny Henriquez

*= closer-by-committee

Milwaukee Brewers – Walking the tightrope and working without command of his curve, Trevor Megill suffered his sixth blown save and third loss during the top of the ninth against the Giants. His outing began with Matt Chapman’s lead-off double, followed by a strikeout, then Luis Maton singled, putting runners on the corners. After striking out Rafael Devers, Megill walked Jung Hoo Lee and gave up a go-ahead two-RBI single by Heliot Ramos ahead of an inning-ending lineout. He threw 34 pitches (61.8% strike rate) and produced seven whiffs (20.6 SwStr%) while giving up three hits, two earned runs, and one walk while striking out two. His illustrator:

And his results:

He’s about to surpass his career high in innings (46.1) and has not converted three of his last four save chances, yielding seven hits over his last four innings.

  • Abner Uribe noched his MLB-leading 35th hold, working around two hits and striking out two in a scoreless eighth.
  • Shelby Miller fired a clean seventh, striking out one for his ninth hold.
  • Nick Mears retired both batters via strikeout, securing his 15th hold in the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

Philadelphia Phillies – Despite allowing a solo home run by Luis Garcia Jr., Orion Kerkering recorded his fourth save, finishing an eventual one-run win over Washington. He threw 17 pitches (76.5% strike rate) and induced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%) while striking out one. He has secured two saves in August over his last seven outings.

  • Tanner Banks notched his seventh hold, stranding two of three inherited runners, producing a double play groundout and an inning-ending flyout by CJ Abrams.
  • José Alvarado gave up a hit, an earned run, and two walks without retiring a batter at the top of the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Duran | Matt Strahm | David Robertson

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: Although he stranded all three inherited runners at the top of the seventh, Kyle Backhus allowed Noelvi Marte’s lead-off single at the top of the eighth, then retired Elly De La Cruz. However, he was charged with an earned run and his third loss after being replaced by Juan Burgos. He let the inherited runner score and allowed four hits, four earned runs, and a walk during one-third of the eighth.
  • Chicago White Sox: Brandon Eisert stranded two runners by inducing an inning-ending groundout by Trevor Larnach at the top of the fifth. He returned for the sixth and worked around a hit and a walk while striking out one for a scoreless 1.1 inning outing. Eisert was awarded his third win for his efforts.
  • Cincinnati Reds: Taking over a tied game at the bottom of the seventh, Graham Ashcraft collected his eighth win after retiring the side and striking out one, courtesy of a five-run rally at the top of the eighth.
  • Detroit Tigers: Not only did Tyler Holton let both inherited runners score at the top of the sixth, he was tagged with an earned run on his ledger, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one during his inning of relief, resulting in his fifth blown save.
  • Houston Astros: Making his team debut, Craig Kimbrel allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts during a scoreless bottom of the eighth.
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: Closing out a six-run margin at San Diego, Kirby Yates retired the side at the bottom of the ninth on 13 pitches (69.2% strike rate) with one whiff. Tanner Scott fired a clean bottom of the eighth against the 1-2-3 hitters, throwing six pitches (66.7% strike rate) without a whiff. Blake Treinen retired his only batter faced via strikeout at the bottom of the seventh, stranding a runner.
  • New York Mets: Suffering his fourth loss, Gregory Soto allowed two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one at the bottom of the eighth. He entered a tied contest and had an untimely spot for his first earned runs against as a Met, snapping his eight-game scoreless streak. 
  • New York Yankees: Navigating around a lead-off single and a two-out double, Camilo Doval closed out a five-run win over Boston with a strikeout and a game-ending groundout for a scoreless top of the ninth. Devin Williams worked a clean eighth, striking out two and securing his ninth hold. Luke Weaver let his only inherited runner score at the top of the sixth, allowing Nathaniel Lowe’s RBI single, but logged 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding two hits while striking out three for his 15th hold.
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Completing a combined shutout, Dennis Santana navigated around Hunter Goodman’s two-out double and Jordan Beck’s walk with a game-ending groundout. He has been scoreless over his last six appearances and converted three save chances, posting a 0.635 WHIP with five strikeouts against one walk across 6.1 innings.
  • San Diego Padres: Summoned at the top of the seventh during a tied game, Jeremiah Estrada suffered his fifth loss, giving up three hits and a walk, including Dalton Rushing’s three-run home run, resulting in four earned runs over two-thirds of the inning.

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