Closer Monkey

Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 23

Friday’s full slate yielded voluminous leverage events of interest, and last night did not disappoint. There are updates for 23 of the 30 teams from yesterday’s action in today’s post. Relievers recorded eight wins, though one was accompanied by a blown save (Trevor Megill), and eight saves while suffering nine losses. Of the eight saves, one was a career first spanning four innings and was one of three requiring more than three outs:

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for August 23

Abner Uribe (MIL): Trevor Megill has appeared in back-to-back games.
Greg Weissert (BOS): Aroldis Chapman and Garrett Whitlock have pitched in consecutive contests.
Hunter Gaddis (CLE): Cade Smith has allowed a run in his last three appearances.
Jason Adam (SD): Robert Suarez and Mason Miller have worked in back-to-back games.

Vulture Save Stash for August 24

Seranthony Domínguez (TOR): If Jeff Hoffman pitches today, it will be consecutive outings.

Here are the high-leverage events of interest from Friday.

Leverage Ledger

Arizona Diamondbacks – Outlasting the Reds and benefiting from a double play, Jalen Beeks recorded his fourth win after stranding the “place” runner on a groundout and a lineout at the top of the 11th.

John Curtiss allowed an unearned run during the tenth and avoided further damage courtesy of a throw cutting down a runner at home by Corbin Carroll.
Andrew Saalfrank retired the side, keeping the game tied at the top of the ninth, facing the 5-6-7 lineup pocket.
Juan Morillo stranded a runner while retiring both batters in the eighth.
Kyle Backhus gave up two hits and an earned run, resulting in his second blown save during one-third of the eighth.
Juan Burgos notched his second hold, retiring the side and striking out one in the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: *Andrew Saalfrank | *Juan Morillo | Kyle Backhus

*= closer-by-committee

Boston Red Sox – Nailing down his 24th save and completing a 1-0 win against the Yankees, Aroldis Chapman retired the side and recorded two strikeouts while facing the 9-1-2 lineup pocket. He threw 10 pitches (90% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (20 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in his last 12 appearances, recording a win and converting all seven save chances with a 0.412 WHIP while striking out 11 across 8.2 innings.

Garrett Whitlock retired the side while striking out two for his 19th hold in the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Garrett Whitlock | Jordan Hicks

Chicago Cubs – Nailing down his 19th save, Daniel Palencia protected his team’s one-run lead by retiring the side and recording two strikeouts at the bottom of the ninth against the Angels. He threw 10 pitches (70% strike rate) and induced one whiff.

He has converted his last four save chances and recorded multiple strikeouts in his last three.

Brad Keller collected his fourth win, retiring the side at the bottom of the eighth, ahead of his teammates’ rally at the top of the ninth.
Andrew Kittredge suffered his first blown save, giving up Yoán Moncada’s game-tying solo home run at the bottom of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Andrew Kittredge

Detroit Tigers – Summoned at the top of the seventh with the bases loaded and no out, Kyle Finnegan induced a double play groundout against Bobby Witt Jr., then retired Vinnie Pasquantino on an inning-ending flyout. Following his team’s four-run outburst at the bottom of the inning, Finnegan returned for the eighth, working around a walk and a batter reaching via catcher’s interference for a second scoreless frame. He collected his third win for his efforts, throwing 23 pitches (56.5% strike rate) with two whiffs.

Will Vest took over in the ninth, allowing a one-out single by Randal Grichuk and a two-run home run by Pasquantino in the eventual two-run win, snapping his six-game scoreless streak.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Houston Astros – Securing his second save, Bryan Abreu stranded two runners at the bottom of the eighth with an inning-ending strikeout of Colton Cowser, then returned for the ninth, hitting a batter and racking up three more strikeouts, finishing a three-run win in Baltimore. He threw 21 pitches (66.7% strike rate) and generated eight whiffs (38.1 SwStr%) in a dominant performance.

He has been scoreless over his last nine outings and recorded 12 strikeouts against three walks across ten innings.

Kaleb Ort forced his early entry, allowing four hits and an earned run during two-thirds of the eighth.
Enyel De Los Santos gets credit for his fourth hold, giving up Cowser’s solo home run and a walk while striking out two in the seventh.
Steven Okert stranded a runner and retired his only batter in the sixth, collecting his second win.

Updated Hierarchy: Bryan Abreu | Bryan King | Enyel De Los Santos

Milwaukee Brewers – After recording two quick outs, Trevor Megill allowed a double by Luis Matos, followed by a Dominic Smith single, and scored the game-tying run on a wild pitch, spiking a fastball, resulting in his fifth blown save. However, he collected his fifth win on a walk-off home run at the bottom of the inning. Megill threw 17 pitches (82.4% strike rate) and induced two whiffs while recording two strikeouts.

Aaron Ashby worked two innings, giving up a solo home run (Willy Adames) and a walk while striking out one.
Shelby Miller stranded a runner, walking one and striking out two during two-thirds of the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

Minnesota Twins – Pressed into action with the bases loaded at the bottom of the eighth, Justin Topa let all three score, issuing a walk and giving up consecutive singles before inducing an inning-ending double play groundout. He returned for the ninth and retired the side, recording his third save. He allowed two hits and a walk while throwing 32 pitches (62.5% strike rate) without a whiff.

Génesis Cabrera created the mess, giving up a hit, three earned runs, and two hits during one-third of the eighth.
Cole Sands fired a clean seventh, striking out one.
Kody Funderburk was awarded his third win, logging 1.1 scoreless innings, allowing a hit and two walks while striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Justin Topa | Cole Sands | Kody Funderburk

Philadelphia Phillies – Perfect no more, Jhoan Duran suffered his first blown save since the trade deadline. He allowed a one-out double by Dylan Crews, followed by a game-tying Daylen Lile RBI single, who then scored on a stolen base attempt courtesy of a throwing error by J.T. Reamuto, scoring the game-deciding run. Duran finished with two hits and two runs (one earned) while striking out three on 22 pitches (72.7% strike rate) with five whiffs (22.7 SwStr%). First, his illustrator:

And his results, which one notes, both hits were to the opposite field:

He had converted his first six save chances since his acquisition, and this snapped his seven-game scoreless streak.

Matt Strahm allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless eighth, securing his 15th hold.
José Alvarado worked a scoreless seventh despite giving up a hit.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Duran | Matt Strahm | David Robertson

Pittsburgh Pirates – Making his major league debut, Bubba Chandler preserved a combined shutout, logging four innings while giving up two hits and recording four strikeouts for his first career save. He threw 40 pitches (72.5% strike rate) and produced six whiffs (15 SwStr%).

He obviously will be a starting pitcher next year, but he could be a late-season weapon as a multi-inning reliever.

Hierarchy Remains: Dennis Santana | Isaac Mattson | Kyle Nicolas

San Diego Padres – Despite dealing with traffic, Robert Suarez secured his MLB-leading 34th save, closing out a one-run win over the Dodgers. He allowed a one-out single by Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman’s two-out single before recording a game-ending strikeout against Teoscar Hernández. He threw 19 pitches (63.2% strike rate) and induced one whiff while recording two strikeouts in his outing.

Mason Miller navigated around a lead-off walk and a one-out walk, making a nimble play while covering first on an inning-ending double play groundout for his fourth hold.
Jason Adam retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the top of the seventh, notching his 28th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Mason Miller | Jason Adam

Seattle Mariners – Working into and then out of trouble, Andrés Muñoz held on for his 30th save in an eventual one-run win over the A’s. He allowed consecutive one-out singles by Brent Rooker, Tyler Soderstrom, and Jacob Wilson, issued a one-out walk, before retiring Darell Hernaiz via flyout, and a game-ending strikeout of JJ Bleday. He threw 19 pitches (78.9% strike rate) and produced five whiffs (26.3 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts. He left too many pitches in the heart of the zone, but survived:

He has converted his last six save chances despite allowing a run in two of his last seven outings.

Gabe Speier notched his 18th hold, stranding a runner while retiring his only batter via strikeout in the eighth.
Matt Brash gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout over two-thirds of the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

Toronto Blue Jays – Shutting the door on his 28th save, Jeff Hoffman fired a scoreless bottom of the ninth, preserving a three-run win while working around a two-out walk. He threw 18 pitches (66.7% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

This extends his scoreless streak to nine games, during which he has posted a 0.92 WHIP with 12 strikeouts against six walks across 8.2 innings.

Brendon Little notched his 25th hold, retiring both batters via strikeout in the eighth.
Yariel Rodríguez allowed two hits, including a solo home run, during two-thirds of combined innings.

Updated Hierarchy: Jeff Hoffman | Seranthony Domínguez | Brendon Little

Washington Nationals – Called upon at the bottom of the eighth with his team down by one, PJ Poulin retired the side, then protected a one-run lead in the ninth, with a second clean inning, collecting his first career win. He threw 22 pitches (72.7% strike rate) and induced five whiffs (22.7 SwStr%) while recording three strikeouts.

Jackson Rutledge retired his only batter via strikeout in the seventh.
Shinnosuke Ogasawara recorded consecutive strikeouts against Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper, then gave up J.T. Realmuto’s go-ahead solo home run before being removed.

Hierarchy Remains: Jose A. Ferrer | Clayton Beeter | Shinnosuke Ogasawara

Quick Hits

Chicago White Sox: As the first reliever in, Brandon Eisert suffered his fifth loss, giving up three hits, two earned runs, and a walk during the top of the sixth.
Cincinnati Reds: Tasked with a tied game at the bottom of the 11th, Scott Barlow suffered his second loss, allowing a walk-off RBI single by Lourdes Gurriel Jr. Graham Ashcraft let the “place” runner score during the tenth on a sacrifice bunt and a sacrifice fly, resulting in his sixth blown save.
Cleveland Guardians: Handed a one-run lead at the bottom of the ninth in Texas, Cade Smith allowed Wyatt Langford’s lead-off double, Corey Seager’s RBI single, and Joc Pederson’s walk-off RBI double, resulting in his fifth loss and a fifth blown save on only seven pitches. Life comes at you fast during high-leverage events.
Kansas City Royals: With a runner on and two outs, Angel Zerpa took over at the bottom of the sixth, but allowed three consecutive hits, including Riley Greene’s two-run home run, resulting in his third blown save. John Schreiber recorded the last out in the seventh. Bailey Falter took over in the eighth, giving up six hits, four earned runs, and a walk while striking out two during his two innings of relief, suffering his seventh loss.
Los Angeles Angels: With the score tied at the top of the ninth, Kenley Jansen allowed Pete Crow-Armstrong’s one-out, go-ahead solo home run, resulting in his fourth loss. He has given up a run in consecutive appearances, both ending in losses.
New York Mets: Another rough outing for Ryan Helsley. He took over with an eight-run lead at the bottom of the ninth in Atlanta and issued Marcell Ozuna a lead-off walk, which can set the tone during leverage appearances. Ozzie Albies hit a one-out double, and with two outs, Vidal Bruján produced a two-RBI single, followed by Jurickson Profar’s RBI double, before a game-ending Matt Olson groundout. Helsley finished with three hits, three earned runs, and a walk. He has allowed at least a run in six of his last eight appearances, and multiple runs in five—less than optimal.
New York Yankees: Entering a scoreless tie at the top of the seventh, Mark Leiter Jr. allowed consecutive doubles by Nathaniel Lowe and Connor Wong, resulting in the game’s only run and his seventh loss. Devin Williams fired a clean top of the eighth, striking out two. David Bednar worked around a walk for a scoreless ninth.
Tampa Bay Rays: Finishing a four-run win over St. Louis, Pete Fairbanks worked a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts while facing the top of the lineup. He threw 12 pitches (75% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).
Texas Rangers: Working a clean top of the ninth with his team trailing by one, Robert Garcia collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the frame. He threw 14 pitches (64.3% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%).
The Athletics: Summoned at the bottom of the seventh during a tied game, Elvis Alvarado suffered his first loss, giving up two hits and two earned runs while striking out one.

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Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 22

Thursday’s nine-game slate yielded four reliever wins and six saves with only two losses. Of the six saves, three required four or more outs; here they are in condensed form:

Vulture Save Options for August 22

Riley O’Brien (STL) – He was warming in case he was needed last night, and with JoJo Romero working two innings, he will be in line for the save chance in today’s contest.
Shinnosuke Ogasawara (WSH): Jose A. Ferrer, Cole Henry, and Clayton Beeter have all pitched in back-to-back games, leaving a save chance for the former left-handed starter against the Phillies’ heart of the order. It’s a long shot.

News, Notes, and Observations

IIt appears that the fantasy community and Ian Browne of MLB.com were too aggressive in setting an activation timeline for Justin Slaten. But, he could be back next week, barring any setbacks:

Seeking another leverage option, Cincinnati will promote Zach Maxwell ahead of this weekend’s series in Arizona. He features triple-digit velocity with his fastball and has been scoreless in nine of his last ten appearances at Triple-A. However, while posting a 1.12 WHIP in these 10.2 innings, he produced a 60.8 strike percentage and a 10.8 percent swinging strike rate.

It only took one rehab appearance and an upcoming series in San Diego to get Tanner Scott back on the active roster:

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

*= closer-by-committee

If healthy and effective, Scott will reclaim his primary save share.

Here are Thursday’s high-leverage events of interest.

Leverage Ledger

Boston Red Sox – Handed a three-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, Aroldis Chapman slammed the door on his 23rd save, retiring the Yankees’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket in order, throwing 14 pitches (50% strike rate) with one whiff.

This extended his scoreless streak to 11 games, during which he has posted a 0.46 WHIP with nine strikeouts against four walks while converting all six save opportunities.

Garrett Whitlock notched his 18th hold, retiring the side at the bottom of the eighth.
Steven Matz allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout over two-thirds scoreless in the seventh, recording his ninth hold.
Greg Weissert was awarded his fifth win, tossing 1.1 scoreless innings, yielding a hit.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Garrett Whitlock | Jordan Hicks

Kansas City Royals – Locking down his 33rd save, Carlos Estévez retired the side and recorded against Texas, preserving a two-run lead. He threw 13 pitches (61.5% strike rate) and induced one whiff.

He has been scoreless in his last four appearances and converted all five save chances in August, along with suffering two losses, posting a 0.928 WHIP with 10 strikeouts against four walks (16.2 K-BB%) through 9.2 innings.

Taylor Clarke fired a clean eighth, striking out two for his third hold.
John Schreiber stranded two runners while retiring both batters, one via strikeout, securing his 17th hold.
Daniel Lynch IV gave up a hit and hit a batter while striking out one in one-third of the seventh, getting credit for his sixth hold.
Angel Zerpa collected his fifth win, stranding two runners at the top of the fifth, and logging 1.2 clean frames while striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber

Milwaukee Brewers – Shutting the door on his 30th save, Trevor Megill navigated around Carson Kelly’s lead-off single by retiring the next three batters, and striking out one, finishing a three-run win in Chicago. He threw 19 pitches (68.4% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (10.5 SwStr%).

Through seven appearances in August, he has recorded a win and converted six of seven save chances with a 1.00 WHIP and nine strikeouts versus one walk across nine innings.

Abner Uribe notched his MLB-leading 34th hold despite issuing two walks and striking out one. He extended his scoreless streak to 13 games, during which he has posted a 0.769 WHIP with 15 strikeouts against five walks.
Jared Koenig secured his 24th hold, walking and striking out one in a scoreless seventh.
Grant Anderson tossed a scoreless sixth, yielding a hit and striking out one for his sixth hold.
Nick Mears collected his fifth win, stranding two of three runners while retiring both batters at the bottom of the fifth.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

New York Yankees – In order of appearance, Camilo Doval took over at the top of the sixth, but suffered his sixth blown save, allowing a one-out single, moving the runner to second on a disengagement violation, then issued a walk, and allowed a game-tying RBI single by Roman Anthony, prompting his removal. He finished with two hits, an earned run, and a walk during his one-third of an inning. Mark Leiter Jr. stranded both inherited runners, retiring both batters in the sixth.

Luke Weaver entered a tied contest at the top of the seventh, giving up a lead-off single by Trevor Story and Nathaniel Lowe’s go-ahead RBI double, handing him his fourth loss. He finished with two hits, an earned run, and two walks while striking out one over two-thirds of the inning.

Tim Hill stranded the bases loaded in the seventh, and worked around a hit and a walk while striking out one during a scoreless combined inning.

Hierarchy Remains: David Bednar | Luke Weaver | Devin Williams

St. Louis Cardinals – Taking over at the bottom of the eighth, JoJo Romero retired the side, then returned for the ninth and worked around Junior Caminero’s two-out single with a game-ending strikeout of Josh Lowe, securing his fourth save. He threw 26 pitches (69.2% strike rate) and produced six whiffs (21.4 SwStr%).

Three of his four saves this month have required four or more outs, and this marks his first two-inning save since August 23, 2023.

Matt Svanson stranded one of two inherited runners, entering with no outs at the bottom of the seventh. He allowed two walks and a run on a comebacker fielder’s choice groundout while striking out one, with no runs on his ledger, resulting in his second hold.
Kyle Leahy gets credit for his 15th hold, allowing three hits, an earned run, and two walks during his combined inning of relief.

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

*= closer-by-committee

The Athletics – Recording his first career save, Osvaldo Bido allowed one earned run on two hits while striking out four over three innings, closing out a five-run win in Minnesota. His team has four saves in August, by four different relievers (LINK). He threw 44 pitches (75% strike rate) and induced six whiffs (13.6 SwStr%).

Ben Bowden retired the side and struck out two at the bottom of the sixth.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Washington Nationals – Pressed into action at the top of the eighth with a runner on and two outs, protecting a two-run lead, Jose A. Ferrer produced an inning-ending strikeout of Jeff McNeil. Despite his team tacking on four runs at the bottom of the eighth, Ferrer returned for the ninth, navigating around Francisco Lindor’s two-out single with a game-ending strikeout of Juan Soto, securing his fourth save. He threw 28 pitches (64.3% strike rate) and generated six whiffs (21.4 SwStr%) while recording three strikeouts over his 1.1 scoreless frames.

Cole Henry allowed a walk and recorded a strikeout during two-thirds scoreless in the eighth for his seventh hold.
PJ Poulin retired the side, striking out one while notching his second hold.
Clayton Beeter worked a clean sixth for his second hold.
Jackson Rutledge stranded two runners and retired both batters, one via strikeout while collecting his second win at the top of the fifth.

Hierarchy Remains: Jose A. Ferrer | Clayton Beeter | Shinnosuke Ogasawara

Quick Hits

Los Angeles Dodgers: Finishing a four-run win in Coors, Alex Vesia allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts during a scoreless bottom of the ninth.
San Diego Padres: Closing out a four-run win over the Giants, Robert Suarez retired the side at the top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts. He threw 13 pitches (76.9% strike rate) and produced five whiffs (38.5 SwStr%). Mason Miller stranded a runner while retiring both batters at the bottom of the eighth, striking out one while throwing five pitches, all strikes, and inducing two whiffs (40 SwStr%).
Texas Rangers: Entering at the bottom of the fourth, Jacob Webb stranded a runner but gave up Vinnie Pasquantino’s solo home run in the fifth, resulting in his fourth loss. He worked 1.1 innings, allowing a hit, an earned run, and a walk.

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Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 21

Wednesday’s 14-game slate resulted in five reliever wins, though one was accompanied by a blown save (David Bednar). Relievers also secured seven saves and suffered five losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for August 21

Andrew Kittredge (CHC) – Daniel Palencia and Brad Keller have pitched the two previous days.
Rico Garcia (BAL) – If the batting order progresses in his favor, he may receive the next save chance for the Orioles.
Phil Maton (TEX) – Shawn Armstrong threw 31 pitches yesterday.

News, Notes, and Observations

Although redraft players had already moved on, those in keeper leagues may be following suit based on the latest update about Félix Bautista:

With a four-game series against the Yankees on tap, the Red Sox demoted one reliever which opens the door for another’s return:

After allowing two runs on Tuesday, Kenley Jansen was unavailable on Wednesday:

After the Dodgers leave Coors Field, the bullpen may receive reinforcements:

Miami lost one of its hierarchical triumvirate for the remainder of the season:

Here are the leverage events of interest from Wednesday.

Leverage Ledger

Arizona Diamondbacks – Taking over with a runner on and one out at the top of the tenth, Andrew Saalfrank retired both batters he faced, one via strikeout, then collected his first win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw nine pitches (66.7% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in three of his last four, securing this win and two saves.

John Curtiss worked 1.1 scoreless innings, allowing a walk and striking out two.
Juan Morillo allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless top of the seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: *Andrew Saalfrank | *Juan Morillo | *Kyle Backhus

*= closer-by-committee

Atlanta Braves – Completing a combined shutout and locking down his 21st save, Raisel Iglesias fired a clean top of the ninth while striking out one. He threw eight pitches, all strikes, and induced one whiff (12.5 SwStr%) against the White Sox.

Not only has the closer converted his last nine save chances, but he has been scoreless through his last 13 games, posting a 0.385 WHIP with 12 strikeouts and zero walks (27.3 K-BB%).

Pierce Johnson notched his 13th hold, retiring the side and striking out one in the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Raisel Iglesias | Dylan Lee | Pierce Johnson

Chicago Cubs – It was a white knuckle ride, but Daniel Palencia allowed two hits, an earned run, and two walks, but held on for his 18th save, preserving a one-run margin when Nico Hoerner snared a liner by William Contreras with the bases loaded and two outs at the top of the ninth. Palencia threw 28 pitches (60.7% strike rate) and generated six whiffs (21.4 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts. First, his illustrator:

And his results:

His contact rate allowed and command must be monitored closely through the end of the season.

Brad Keller fired a clean top of the eighth and recorded a strikeout for his 20th hold.
Caleb Thielbar worked 1.1 scoreless innings, letting his only inherited runner score in the sixth, yielding a hit and striking out one during his 17th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Andrew Kittredge

Cleveland Guardians – Entering a tied game at the bottom of the tenth, Matt Festa recorded an out on a sacrifice bunt, then allowed a walk-off bloop single by Adrian Del Castillo, scoring the “place” runner, resulting in his third loss.

Cade Smith took over at the bottom of the eighth against Corbin Carroll and retired him on an inning-ending flyout. However, during the ninth, he allowed a game-tying lead-off solo home run by Lourdes Gurriel Jr., then retired the next three batters, one via strikeout.

Smith suffered his fourth blown save, throwing 18 pitches (66.7% strike rate) and inducing two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%). He has allowed a run in consecutive appearances.

Hunter Gaddis notched his 26th hold, retiring all three batters faced across the seventh and eighth innings.

Updated Hierarchy: Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis | Eric Sabrowski

Los Angeles Angels – Filling in capably and recording his first save of the season, Luis García retired the Reds in order, preserving a one-run lead. He threw 14 pitches (71.4% strike rate) and generated five whiffs (35.7% SwStr%).

He has been scoreless over his last eight games.

Reid Detmers earned his fourth win, working a scoreless top of the eighth, issuing a walk and recording two strikeouts while facing the 9-1-2-3 hitters.

For now:

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Reid Detmers | Luis García

New York Yankees – Presented a three-run lead at the bottom of the tenth, Devin Williams let the “place” runner score on Bob Seymour’s lead-off single, allowed Tristan Gray’s double, then retired the next three batters via strikeout, posting his 18th save. He threw 24 pitches (62.5% strike rate) and produced five whiffs (20.8 SwStr%).

It’s his first save since July 29, oddly enough, also against the Rays.

David Bednar suffered his third blown save, allowing two hits, including Hunter Feduccia’s two-out, two-RBI double, tying the game.

This snapped Bednar’s six-game scoreless streak, but he did collect his fourth win, courtesy of a three-run rally at the top of the tenth.

Luke Weaver notched his 14th hold, giving up Bob Seymour’s solo home run and recording two strikeouts during his 1.1 innings.

Updated Hierarchy: David Bednar | Luke Weaver | Devin Williams

Pittsburgh Pirates – Locking down his ninth save, Dennis Santana fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout while preserving a one-run win over Toronto. He threw eight pitches, all strikes, and induced one whiff (12.5 SwStr%) against the 3-4-5 lineup pocket.

He has been scoreless over his last five appearances, posting a win and converting all three save opportunities.

Isaac Mattson worked around a hit batter for a scoreless eighth and recorded a strikeout for his fifth hold.
Kyle Nicolas gave up a hit while logging two scoreless frames, securing his second hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Dennis Santana | Isaac Mattson | Kyle Nicolas

Texas Rangers – Called upon at the bottom of the eighth with two outs, Hoby Milner recorded an inning-ending strikeout of Kyle Isbel. After his teammates scored three at the top of the ninth, Milner returned and retired Kansas City’s top of the lineup in order, preserving the lead while collecting his second win. He threw 19 pitches (78.9% strike rate) without a whiff during his 1.1 scoreless innings.

Shawn Armstrong worked around two hits and a walk while striking out three over 1.1 scoreless frames.
Jacob Latz logged 3.1 scoreless innings, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out four.

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

*= closer-by-committee

The Athletics – Morphing into another fluid matchup-based bullpen, it was all hands on deck against the Twins. Tyler Ferguson held on for his second save, stranding the “place” runner while issuing a walk during a scoreless bottom of the tenth, preserving a two-run lead.

Michael Kelly was awarded his third win, after stranding a runner despite giving up a hit during two-thirds scoreless at the bottom of the ninth.
Hogan Harris allowed a walk and recorded a strikeout, recording an out in the eighth and ninth innings.
Elvis Alvarado worked a scoreless combined inning, allowing two hits and a walk.
Sean Newcomb stranded two runners at the bottom of the fifth and gave up a hit during two scoreless innings.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Washington Nationals – Handed a one-run lead, Jose A. Ferrer allowed a one-out infield single by Cedric Mullins, then induced a game-ending double play groundout, securing his third save. He threw seven pitches (71.4% strike rate) and induced one whiff (14.3 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to six games, during which he has recorded two wins while converting all three save chances with a 1.00 WHIP and five strikeouts across eight innings.

Clayton Beeter retired the side on nine pitches in the eighth, notching his first hold.
Shinnosuke Ogasawara fired a clean seventh and recorded a strikeout for his first hold.
Cole Henry stranded a runner despite issuing a walk during two-thirds scoreless in the sixth, resulting in his sixth hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Jose A. Ferrer | Clayton Beeter | Shinnosuke Ogasawara

Quick Hits

Kansas City Royals: Entering at the top of the eighth, Sam Long kept the game tied, but things went sideways in the ninth, resulting in three unearned runs and his third loss. He finished with five hits and a walk while striking out one during his two innings. Lucas Erceg suffered his fifth blown save, letting his only inherited runner score, allowing two hits and a walk during one-third of the seventh.
Miami Marlins: After warming for a save chance, Calvin Faucher settled for closing out a four-run win over the Cardinals by retiring the side and recording two strikeouts at the top of the ninth. He threw 19 pitches (68.4% strike rate) and produced two whiffs. Ronny Henriquez notched his 18th hold, firing a clean top of the eighth while striking out two.
Minnesota Twins: Although he stranded two runners at the top of the ninth, Génesis Cabrera suffered his first loss, allowing a go-ahead two-run home run by Shea Langeliers at the top of the tenth. He finished with a hit, two runs (one earned), and recorded two strikeouts during his 1.1 innings.
Philadelphia Phillies: Tanner Banks stranded a runner while striking out his only batter faced at the top of the seventh, notching his sixth hold. David Robertson allowed two hits, including Eugenio Suárez’s solo home run, and a walk while striking out one over two-thirds of the seventh, getting credit for his second hold.
Tampa Bay Rays: Tasked with the top of the tenth, Pete Fairbanks struggled, allowing Giancarlo Stanton’s go-ahead pinch-hit two-run home run and a solo shot by Austin Wells, resulting in three runs (two earned) while suffering his fourth loss.

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Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 20

In one of the most turbulent slates of the season, relievers recorded seven wins, though one was accompanied by a blown save (Luis Mey), and ten saves while suffering seven losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

Due to scheduling and usage patterns, no recommended stream options are available.

Three Takeaways

(1) Match-up Mansolino strikes again: Taking over at the bottom of the 11th with a one-run lead, Corbin Martin retired the side against the Red Sox while throwing 10 pitches (50% strike rate) without a whiff. Yennier Cano hit a batter and issued a one-out walk before inducing an inning-ending double play groundout at the bottom of the tenth, then collected his second win after his team’s rally at the top of the 11th. Yaramil Hiraldo was summoned for his first save chance in the ninth, but struggled with this command. He also gave up Nathaniel Lowe’s game-tying two-run home run, his only hit allowed while issuing four walks and striking out two in the ninth during his first blown save. Rico Garcia stranded the bases loaded while striking out all three batters faced in the eighth, notching his second hold. Kade Strowd yielded two hits and a walk before being removed in the eighth. Keegan Akin tossed two clean frames, securing his 14th hold.

There are many moving parts to this contest, but our hierarchy will reflect a slight change based on Garcia taking over at the highest-leveraged moment, rather than getting the save chance. Stranding the bases loaded with three consecutive strikeouts, there is no save otherwise:

Can he maintain this level of performance in future appearances? I am not sure. However, seeing Akin logging two innings and recent patterns, it feels like Garcia will get the next save chance, if he’s not needed sooner:

Updated Hierarchy: *Rico Garcia | *Yennier Cano | *Dietrich Enns

*= closer-by-committee

(2) JoJo is not a “closer.” I have warned fantasy players that JoJo Romero will be the preferred save option when available. However, he will likely face an opponent’s best lineup, especially if it contains a left-handed hitter. For a second consecutive game, Romero worked the eighth inning against the top of the Marlins lineup. He notched his 18th hold, retiring the 2-3-4 lineup pocket in order while striking out one. He has appeared in three straight contests. Riley O’Brien took over with a three-run lead at the bottom of the ninth in Miami and walked the first two batters he faced, recorded consecutive strikeouts, and then induced a game-ending groundout, recording his second save. He threw 18 pitches (50% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in his last six appearances and converted two of three save chances with five strikeouts versus five walks across 6.2 innings. However, he must display better command, or traffic will be his undoing. With reports that Kyle Leahy will transition into a “piggyback” option for Cardinal starters:

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

*= closer-by-committee

(3) No Santillan in the eighth? When a manager establishes a defined hierarchy, it provokes speculation when it’s not followed. Graham Ashcraft let his only inherited runner score, giving up two hits and recording a strikeout during two-thirds scoreless in the seventh, getting credit for his 17th hold. In the eighth, it was Luis Mey, who allowed a game-tying home run by Jo Adell, resulting in his first blown save, but he also collected his first win courtesy of his team’s two-run rally at the top of the ninth. After not pitching the eighth with a one-run lead, it was Tony Santillan shutting the door for his fourth save, retiring the Angels’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket in order while recording two strikeouts in the ninth. He threw 12 pitches (66.7% strike rate) and induced one whiff (8.3 SwStr%).

It’s his first save since July 30, and there is no changing of the guard. Terry Francona informed Emilio Pagán that he would not be pitching in this game to give him rest, per the game recap by Gordon Wittenmyer for Cincinnati.com:

Those with Pagán should not panic, but should monitor his results closely, as a brutal stretch of games is on tap.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Tuesday.

Leverage Ledger

Arizona Diamondbacks – Securing his second save, Andrew Saalfrank took over at the top of the ninth against the Guardians’ 3-4-5 hitters, lined up against two switch hitters and a left-handed batter. He preserved the one-run lead by retiring the side and striking out one on nine pitches (55.6% strike rate) with three whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).

He has converted two of three save chances in his last three outings.

Kyle Backhus stranded two runners despite issuing a walk with an inning-ending popout against Angel Martínez for his seventh hold in the eighth.
Andrew Hoffmann was credited with his third hold, giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk during two-thirds of the eighth.
Juan Burgos collected his first win, stranding a runner while allowing a hit and a walk during one-third of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: *Andrew Saalfrank | *Andrew Hoffmann | *Juan Morillo

*= closer-by-committee

Atlanta Braves – Capping his team’s comeback win, Raisel Iglesias retired the side at the top of the ninth, preserving a one-run lead and recording his 20th save. He threw nine pitches (77.8% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to 12 games, and he’s converted all nine save opportunities in them, posting a 0.417 WHIP with 11 strikeouts.

Dylan Lee worked a clean top of the eighth and collected his second win as a result of his team’s go-ahead rally at the bottom of the inning.
Dane Dunning tossed a clean seventh, striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Raisel Iglesias | Dylan Lee | Pierce Johnson

Chicago Cubs – (Game 1) – Back from his illness and right into the ninth inning, Daniel Palencia worked around a one-out walk to Sal Frelick and a single by Caleb Durbin by inducing a game-ending double play groundout against William Contreras, preserving his team’s two-run lead and locking down his 17th save. He threw 17 pitches (64.7% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (17.5 SwStr%) while recording one strikeout in his scoreless appearance.

Drew Pomeranz fired a clean top of the eighth, striking out two, and secured his tenth hold.
Caleb Thielbar worked a clean seventh and recorded one strikeout for his 16th hold.
Brad Keller let his only inherited runner score, giving up a hit and two walks while striking out two during two-thirds of the sixth, posting his 19th hold.

(Game 2) – Completing a sweep, Andrew Kittredge locked down his second save, retiring the side at the top of the ninth against Milwaukee, throwing 10 pitches (60% strike rate) without a whiff.

Ryan Brasier worked a clean eighth, notching his fourth hold.
Taylor Rogers navigated around two hits and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless seventh for his tenth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Andrew Kittredge

Detroit Tigers – After tossing two scoreless frames, including stranding the “place” runner at the top of the tenth, Will Vest allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout, then collected his sixth win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 26 pitches (69.2% strike rate) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in his last six games, posting a 0.649 WHIP with seven strikeouts versus one walk.

Kyle Finnegan kept the game scoreless, retiring the side and striking out one at the top of the eighth, throwing 16 pitches (81.3% strike rate) and producing two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%). This extends his scoreless streak to ten games, eight since his acquisition.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Kansas City Royals – Handed a three-run lead, John Schreiber worked around a two-out walk to Marcus Semien for a scoreless ninth, securing his first save of the season. He threw 11 pitches (54.5% strike rate) without a whiff. Providing his teammates with a much-needed night off, Schreiber recorded his first save since one year ago today and extended his scoreless streak to six games.

Angel Zerpa collected his fourth win, logging 1.2 scoreless innings, despite allowing a hit and a walk.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber

Philadelphia Phillies – Locking down his 22nd save, Jhoan Duran retired the Mariners’ 9-1-2 hitters in order, including a game-ending strikeout of Cal Raleigh, preserving a two-run lead. He threw 12 pitches (66.7% strike rate) and generated four whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).

This extends his scoreless streak to seven games since the trade deadline while converting all six save opportunities with a 0.351 WHIP and five strikeouts over 5.2 innings.

David Robertson worked a clean top of the eighth, striking out two, and collected his first win courtesy of a two-run rally at the bottom of the inning.
Matt Strahm stranded a runner and retired his only batter in the eighth.
Orion Kerkering gave up a hit, two earned runs, and two walks during one-third of the seventh, resulting in his sixth blown save.

Updated Hierarchy: Jhoan Duran | Matt Strahm | David Robertson

The Athletics – Recording his first career save, Hogan Harris retired the Twins’ 6-7-8 lineup pocket in order, throwing 11 pitches (63.6% strike rate) and inducing one whiff.

This was his first appearance since August 13, when he logged three scoreless innings during a loss.

Justin Sterner notched his 11th hold, tossing two scoreless frames, scattering two hits, and striking out two.

Updated Hierarchy: *Sean Newcomb | *Elvis Alvarado | *Hogan Harris

*= closer-by-committee

Quick Hits

Boston Red Sox: Entering at the top of the 11th, Garrett Whitlock produced consecutive groundouts, but let the “place” runner score, resulting in his third loss. He also gave up a walk during his inning of relief. Aroldis Chapman worked a scoreless tenth, walking one and striking out three on 13 pitches (69.2% strike rate) while generating six whiffs (46.2 SwStr%).
Chicago White Sox: Called upon with the bases loaded and one out at the bottom of the eighth, leading by one, Steven Wilson induced a pop-out against Marcell Ozuna, then gave up Drake Baldwin’s two-RBI single, resulting in his fifth blown save. Tyler Alexander gets charged with his first loss and credited with a third hold, giving up two hits, two earned runs, and two walks while recording an out in the seventh and eighth innings.
Cleveland Guardians: Tim Herrin took over in the seventh, allowing a hit, two earned runs, and a walk during his two-thirds of the inning, resulting in his third loss.
Houston Astros: Tasked with a tied game at the bottom of the tenth, Kaleb Ort induced a flyout, intentionally walked Dillon Dingler, struck out Javier Báez, walked Jahmai Jones, then walked in the game-winning run, resulting in his second loss.
Los Angeles Angels: With the score tied at the top of the ninth, Kenley Jansen allowed Jose Trevino’s one-out single, hit Ke’Bryan Hayes with a pitch, and walked Will Benson to load the bases. TJ Friedl plated the go-ahead run with a sacrifice fly, and Gavin Lux doubled, scoring one run, but Benson was thrown out at home, ending the inning. Jansen gets tagged with his third loss, giving up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one.
San Diego Padres: Closing a four-run win over the Giants, Robert Suarez retired the side against the 5-6-7 lineup pocket on 10 pitches (70% strike rate) without a whiff.
Seattle Mariners: Taking over a tied game at the bottom of the eighth, Matt Brash suffered his second loss, allowing two hits, including J.T. Realmuto’s go-ahead two-run home run, and a walk while striking out one.
Texas Rangers: Almost like clockwork, another sullied game for this bullpen. Hoby Milner took over a tied game at the bottom of the seventh and allowed three consecutive hits, resulting in an earned run and his third loss without retiring a batter.
Toronto Blue Jays: Finishing a four-run win over the Pirates, Jeff Hoffman fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded a strikeout. He threw nine pitches (55.6% strike rate) without a whiff. This extended his scoreless streak to eight games, during which he has a 0.909 WHIP with two wins and three saves in four chances.

News, Notes, and Observations

With eyes on minor league rehab assignments, beginning with Tanner Scott making his first appearance at Triple-A. He threw 16 pitches (62.5% strike rate) and produced four whiffs (25 SwStr%) working with increased velocity:

According to Sonja Chen of MLB.com, he could be activated as soon as this weekend, or at the latest, on Monday against the Reds:

Justin Slaten also logged a strong outing at Triple-A, striking out the side:

Lastly, Robert Stephenson has been making progress toward a return:

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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: