Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 11

Sunday provided drama during high-leverage events, but not many decisions. Relievers recorded five wins, though one was accompanied by a blown save (Jeff Hoffman), and five saves while suffering six losses across the 15-game slate. Here are the saves in condensed form:

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for August 11

  • Ben Casparius (LAD): Given the recent struggles in his leverage ladder, he may be called upon for the save chance, if provided, today. 
  • Orion Kerkering (PHI): Jhoan Durán has appeared in consecutive games, Matt Strahm as worked in three straight. 
  • Hunter Harvey (KC): Carlos Estévez and Lucas Erceg have appeared in back-to-back games. 
  • Riley O’Brien (STL): JoJo Romero threw 26 pitches during his 1.1 inning outing last night. If you prefer multi-innings for the playoffs, then Kyle Leahy would be your target.

Three Takeaways

(1) Do the Dodgers need role changes? Ahead of his activation from the injured list, Dave Roberts said Blake Treinen would resume his highest-leveraged reliever role, which was enacted during his outing on Sunday. He took over with a one-run lead against Toronto’s 2-3-4 hitters at the top of the eighth. Things did not go well. After striking out Bo Bichette, Treinen allowed back-to-back home runs on sweepers against Vlad Guerrero Jr. and Addison Barger, resulting in his second blown save:

Since returning from the injured list, he has allowed eight hits while facing 23 batters and issued four walks, culminating in a 3.243 WHIP over 3.2 innings. It’s a small sample, but an ugly one. Alex Vesia took over a tied game at the top of the ninth and served up Ernie Clement’s lead-off, go-ahead home run, resulting in his second loss. He has given up at least a run in his last two appearances and five hits in them. Dodgers relievers are the only team with more than 500 innings this season, and only three teams’ relievers have allowed more home runs (Colorado, Los Angeles Angels, Baltimore) than the Dodgers’ 62.

Part of the injured-list cavalry will arrive later this month: Tanner Scott, Kirby Yates, and Michael Kopech. However, does Treinen’s struggles provide Ben Casparius with a larger leverage role? It should. Bobby Miller has also transitioned into a relief role at Triple-A. He has been scoreless in his last five appearances, allowing one baserunner on a walk while recording four strikeouts across six shutout innings. Here is his Statcast box from Saturday:

Until the team announces role changes or adjusts the roster:

Updated HIerarchy: *Blake Treinen | *Alex Vesia | *Ben Casparius

*= closer-by-committee

But this will be fluid throughout the week based on usage patterns and roster moves. Stay tuned.

(2) Low leverage, no problem for the “Airbender.” During an eventual loss, Devin Williams fired a clean top of the sixth, striking out the side on 11 pitches (90.9% strike rate) with four whiffs (36.4 SwStr%) facing the Astros’ 9-1-2 lineup pocket.

Per Baseball Reference, here are his results using their leverage designations:

Link: https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/split.fcgi?id=willide03&year=2025&t=p#lever

Aaron Boone has remained steadfast in his support of Williams. How he can infuse his reliever into successful appearances will be intriguing, given the team’s recent struggles and mounting postseason pressure.

Hierarchy Remains: David Bednar | Luke Weaver | Camilo Doval

(3) Still no clarity for the A’s: A traditional save chance has not materialized since the trade deadline for the Athletics. On Sunday, after taking over with one out at the bottom of the eighth while his team was trailing by a run and stranding a runner, Elvis Alvarado returned for the ninth, with a one-run lead, and earned his first win. He tossed 1.2 scoreless innings, issuing two walks and recording two strikeouts. He has been scoreless in six of his last seven appearances with ten strikeouts versus five walks.

Sean Newcomb worked a scoreless combined inning, stranding a runner in the seventh. He did allow a hit and a walk during his outing. Justin Sterner gave up two hits and an earned run while striking out three during his 1.2 innings. Michael Kelly had pitched two innings during a lopsided loss on Saturday.

Alvarado has an interesting arsenal and the velocity to succeed during save chances, but his 11.6 percent walk rate and his strike percentage of 60.4 provide some caution. For now, leaving the hierarchy alone, but hopefully, clarity will arise soon:

Hierarchy Remains: *Sean Newcomb | *Michael Kelly | *Elvis Alvarado

*= closer-by-committee

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Sunday.

Leverage Ledger

Baltimore Orioles – Handed a one-run lead at the top of the ninth, Keegan Akin issued Darell Hernaiz a walk, a high-leverage mortal sin, recording a strikeout, allowed a single, followed by a two-RBI double, ceding the lead.

This resulted in his second loss and fourth blown save, second since his return from the injured list.

  • Dietrich Enns notched his first hold, striking out both batters faced in the eighth, and could emerge as an option for save chances soon.
  • Yennier Cano worked 1.1 scoreless innings, walking one and striking out two.

Updated Hierarchy: *Keegan Akin | *Yennier Cano | *Dietrich Enns

*= closer-by-committee

Chicago White Sox – Locking down his fourth save, Grant Taylor retired the side and recorded a strikeout while preserving a two-run win over Cleveland. He threw eight pitches (87.5% strike rate) and induced one whiff (12.5 SwStr%), facing the 1-2-3 hitters at the top of the ninth.

It’s his first save since July 4 and his fourth consecutive scoreless appearance.

  • Cam Booser recorded his eighth hold with a clean eighth, striking out one.
  • Jordan Leasure allowed Kyle Manzardo’s solo home run and struck out one for his 11th hold in the seventh.
  • Brandon Eisert worked a scoreless sixth, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one for his sixth hold.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Kansas City Royals – Summoned at the bottom of the 11th during a tied game, Carlos Estévez intentionally walked Kody Clemens, induced a groundball double play, then allowed a walk-off two-run home run by Luke Keaschall, resulting in his fourth loss.

This snapped his two-game scoreless streak and represents the second time in four games he has allowed multiple runs this month.

  • Taylor Clarke fired a clean bottom of the tenth, striking out two.
  • John Schreiber retired the side in the ninth.
  • Lucas Erceg gave up two hits and an earned run during his fourth blown save in the eighth.
  • Angel Zerpa logged 1.1 clean frames while striking out two. 

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | Hunter Harvey

Minnesota Twins – Logging two scoreless extra innings, Michael Tonkin earned his first win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the 11th. He issued two walks and recorded two strikeouts across the tenth and 11th innings.

  • Justin Topa allowed a hit and an intentional walk (Vinnie Pasquantino) while recording two strikeouts in a scoreless ninth. He has been scoreless through five outings in August with five strikeouts versus one walk.
  • Brooks Kriske tossed a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit and striking out two.
  • Cole Sands suffered his third blown save, giving up two hits, including a go-ahead two-run home run by Pasquantino during one-third of the seventh.
  • Pierson Ohl worked 2.2 scoreless frames, allowing a hit and a walk for his first hold. 

Updated Hierarchy: Justin Topa | Cole Sands | Kody Funderburk

New York Mets – After stranding two runners at the bottom of the eighth with an inning-ending lineout, Edwin Díaz returned for the ninth with the score tied, but suffered his second loss, allowing a walk-off home run by Isaac Collins.

It’s only the third home run he’s allowed all season and the first earned run allowed since June 2.

  • Ryan Helsley gave up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one during two-thirds of the eighth, getting tagged with his sixth blown save.
  • Tyler Rogers worked around two hits for a scoreless seventh and his 23rd hold.
  • Brooks Raley retired the side in the sixth, securing his third hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Ryan Helsley | Tyler Rogers

Philadelphia Phillies – Completing a sweep in Texas and his 20th save, Jhoan Durán navigated around Josh Jung’s one-out single with a game-ending strikeout, preserving the two-run win. He threw 12 pitches (91.7% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

Durán has converted all four save chances with his new team, all scoreless appearances with a 0.25 WHIP and three strikeouts versus no walks (23.1 K-BB%).

  • Orion Kerkering allowed a hit during a scoreless eighth, securing his 18th hold.
  • Matt Strahm worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit during his 13th hold.
  • Tanner Banks gave up a hit and recorded two strikeouts in the sixth for his fifth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

Seattle Mariners – Securing a two-run win over the Rays, Matt Brash recorded his third save, retiring the side and striking out one at the top of the ninth. He threw 12 pitches (66.7% strike rate) and generated four whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).

It’s his second save in the last three days, and he has been scoreless in eight of his last nine appearances since July 22, with 10 strikeouts against two walks through 7.1 innings.

  • Carlos Vargas stranded two runners while retiring his only batter at the top of the eighth for his 14th hold.
  • Caleb Ferguson notched his 13th hold, tossing 1.2 scoreless innings, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

St. Louis Cardinals – Called upon with a runner on and two outs at the top of the eighth, JoJo Romero allowed Kyle Tucker’s single, then induced an inning-ending groundout. Returning for the ninth, he issued a one-out walk to Ian Happ, his replacement runner, Jon Berti was caught stealing, then Nico Hoerner and Dansby Swanson singled before a game-ending fielder’s choice groundout resulted in Romero’s third save. He navigated around three hits and a walk during 1.1 scoreless innings. He threw 26 pitches (65.4% strike rate), illustrated below:

And his results:

He has recorded a win and three saves through five appearances this month, but has a 1.754 WHIP through 5.2 innings in them.

  • Riley O’Brien allowed a walk and recorded a strikeout during two-thirds scoreless in the eighth for his fourth hold while facing the Cubs’ 9-1-2 lineup pocket.

Hierarchy Remains: *JoJo Romero | *Riley O’Brien | Kyle Leahy

*= closer-by-committee

Toronto Blue Jays – Thrust into action at the bottom of the ninth with the bases loaded and one out, Mason Fluharty battled Shohei Ohtani while recording a strikeout, then induced a game-ending fielder’s groundout by Mookie Betts for his first career save.

He preserved the one-run win, throwing 12 pitches (66.7% strike rate) with two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

Jeff Hoffman battled his command throughout his combined outing. He was tagged with his fifth blown save after walking in the game-tying run at the bottom of the eighth, letting one of his two inherited runners score. In the ninth, he issued three more walks, finishing with five across two-thirds scoreless innings, collecting his seventh win. He threw 33 pitches (30.3% strike rate) and only produced one whiff.

  • Yariel Rodríguez was credited with his 13th hold, allowing an earned run on two walks and striking out one during two-thirds of the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Seranthony Domínguez | Louis Varland

Quick Hits

  • Cincinnati Reds: Scott Barlow stranded an inherited runner with an inning-ending strikeout at the bottom of the fifth. He allowed two hits in the sixth before being lifted, but was awarded his sixth win.
  • Detroit Tigers: Closing out a four-run win, Will Vest tossed 1.1 scoreless frames, allowing a hit and recording two strikeouts. He threw 15 pitches (66.7% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%).
  • Houston Astros: Finishing a six-run win over the Yankees, Bryan King fired a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out the side. Bryan Abreu stranded two of three inherited runners at the bottom of the seventh, walking and striking out one during 1.2 scoreless frames for his 25th hold. Bennett Sousa gave up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while recording one out in the seventh.
  • Miami Marlins: Entering at the bottom of the fifth, Tyler Phillips gave up two hits, two earned runs, a hit batter, and three walks while striking out three during his 1.2 innings, resulting in his first loss.
  • Milwaukee Brewers: Tasked with a tied game at the top of the ninth, Nick Mears worked around a two-out walk to Juan Soto for a scoreless outing. He collected his third win on his team’s walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. DL Hall kept his team close, logging 3.2 scoreless frames, walking two, and striking out four. 
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Taking over at the top of the sixth, Yohan Ramírez suffered his first loss, giving up four hits, three earned runs, and two walks while striking out two over his 1.1 innings.
  • Texas Rangers: Appearing during an eventual loss, Phil Maton allowed a hit batter and a hit, resulting in an earned run on a sacrifice fly, snapping his six-game scoreless streak at the top of the ninth. Robert Garcia worked a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit and striking out one.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 10

Saturday’s slate provided plenty of intrigue across the high-leverage ecosystem. Relievers recorded four wins, one accompanied by a blown save (David Bednar), and nine saves while suffering five losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for August 10

  • Hunter Gaddis (CLE): Cade Smith has appeared in consecutive contests. 
  • Shelby Miller (MIL): Trevor Megill and Abner Uribe have pitched in back-to-back games. 
  • Sean Newcomb (ATH): Michael Kelly worked two innings yesterday. 

Vulture Save Stashes for August 11

  • Luke Weaver (NYY): If David Bednar pitches today, it’s consecutive appearances. 
  • Tony Santillan (CIN): If Emilio Pagán gets deployed today, it will be back-to-back outings. 

Here are the leverage events of interest from Saturday.

Leverage Ledger

Atlanta Braves – (Game 2) – Raisel Iglesias retired the side and recorded a strikeout, completing the sweep while recording his 16th save. He threw 11 pitches (72.7% strike rate) without a whiff.

This extended his scoreless streak to seven games, during which he has converted five saves with a 0.429 WHIP and seven strikeouts (29.2 K-BB%) in his last seven innings.

  • Austin Cox tossed a clean eighth, striking out two for his second hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Raisel Iglesias | Dylan Lee | Pierce Johnson

Cincinnati Reds – Although he issued Oneil Cruz a lead-off walk, Emilio Pagán induced a flyout against Andrew McCutchen, followed by a game-ending double play lineout to short by Nick Gonzales, preserving the one-run lead for his 25th save. He threw 18 pitches (61.1% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

He has converted all three save opportunities this month and has been scoreless in his last two.

  • Tony Santillan notched his 25th hold, walking one during a scoreless eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Cleveland Guardians – Shutting the door on his fifth save, Cade Smith fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts, preserving his team’s two-run win over the White Sox. He threw 10 pitches (80% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (30 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in his last six appearances and converted his last two save chances.

  • Eric Sabrowski issued a walk during a scoreless eighth, securing his sixth hold.
  • Hunter Gaddis worked around two walks and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless seventh, recording his 23rd hold.
  • Nic Enright stranded a runner and retired two of three batters across the sixth and seventh innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis | Nic Enright

Kansas City Royals – Completing a combined shutout, Carlos Estévez retired the side and recorded two strikeouts, securing his 29th save. He threw 16 pitches (56.3% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%).

It’s his first save since July 29, and his second scoreless appearance in August.

  • Lucas Erceg notched his 18th hold, firing a clean eighth while striking out one.
  • Hunter Harvey worked around two hits and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless seventh for his fifth hold.
  • Angel Zerpa stranded a runner and recorded a strikeout against his only batter in the sixth, posting his tenth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | Hunter Harvey

Los Angeles Angels – Locking down his 21st save, Kenley Jansen fired a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out two against Detroit’s 1-2-3 lineup pocket. He only needed 12 pitches (75% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to 14 games, during which he has a 0.49 WHIP with 16 strikeouts against two walks (28.6 K-BB%) across 14.1 innings.

  • Luis García retired the side and recorded two strikeouts at the bottom of the eighth, securing his seventh hold.
  • Brock Burke worked a scoreless seventh, walking and striking out one for his 13th hold.
  • Ryan Zeferjahn navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out two in a scoreless sixth, notching his 17th hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Reid Detmers | Luis García

Milwaukee Brewers – Closing out a three-run win over the Mets, Trevor Megill worked around Cedric Mullin’s one-out single with back-to-back game-ending strikeouts of Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto, nailing down his 28th save. He threw 22 pitches (77.3% strike rate) and induced three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%).

Since the start of July, he has converted all ten save chances and been scoreless in 11 of his 12 appearances while posting a 0.619 WHIP with 14 strikeouts versus two walks.

  • Abner Uribe notched his MLB-leading 31st hold, striking out the side at the top of the eighth.
  • Jared Koenig was awarded his fourth win, tossing a scoreless seventh, walking and striking out one.
  • Shelby Miller made his team debut, retiring the side and striking out one in the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

New York Yankees – Summoned with the bases loaded and one out at the top of the eighth, David Bednar walked in a run, tying the game, then retired the next two batters but was charged with his second blown save. After Trent Grisham’s go-ahead home run, Bednar retired the side at the top of the ninth, earning his third win. He threw 23 pitches (65.2% strike rate) and produced five whiffs (21.7 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts across his 1.2 scoreless innings.

  • Camilo Doval gets credited with his ninth hold, allowing a hit, two runs (one earned), and two walks while striking out one in one-third of the eighth.
  • Luke Weaver fired a clean seventh, striking out one for his 11th hold.
  • Mark Leiter Jr. stranded a runner and retired both batters in the sixth, securing his 12th hold.

Recent usage patterns have prompted an adjusted hierarchy:

Updated Hierarchy: David Bednar | Luke Weaver | Camilo Doval

Philadelphia Phillies – Sealing a one-run win in Texas, Jhoan Durán fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded a strikeout for his 19th save, and third in as many appearances with the Phillies. He threw 16 pitches (68.8% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%).

  • Matt Strahm gave up Corey Seager’s solo home run and struck out one at the bottom of the eighth, getting credit for his 12th hold.
  • Tanner Banks worked around a hit for a scoreless seventh, securing his fourth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

San Diego Padres – After tossing a scoreless top of the tenth, issuing an intentional walk (Wilyer Abreu) and striking out one, Jason Adam collected his seventh win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning.

Robert Suarez suffered his fifth blown save, allowing two hits, including Roman Anthony’s game-tying RBI double, an earned run, and an intentional walk (Jarren Duran) while striking out two. His illustrator:

And his results:

  • Mason Miller notched his second hold over 1.1 scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out three on 14 pitches (71.4% strike rate) with five whiffs (35.7 SwStr%). He did benefit from a caught stealing of his only baserunner allowed, but this was a near-dominant outing.
  • Adrian Morejon gave up a hit and recorded two outs, both via strikeout, for his 17th hold in the seventh.
  • Jeremiah Estrada logged two clean frames, striking out five while throwing 27 pitches (74.1% strike rate) with nine whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Mason Miller | Jason Adam

Seattle Mariners – Despite giving up Junior Caminero’s lead-off single and issuing a two-out walk, Andrés Muñoz closed out his team’s three-run win over the Rays for his 27th save. He threw 19 pitches (68.4% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (15.8 SwStr%).

He has converted his last six save chances while being scoreless in ten of his last 11 outings since July 13 with a 1.182 WHIP and 14 strikeouts versus eight walks across 11 innings.

  • Gabe Speier retired both batters at the top of the eighth, notching his 16th hold.
  • Eduard Bazardo worked 1.1 scoreless frames while striking out two for his fifth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

Washington Nationals – Recording his first save of the season, and the second of his career, Jose A. Ferrer let one of three inherited runners score at the bottom of the eighth on a sacrifice fly before producing an inning-ending strikeout of Matt Chapman. He returned for the ninth and worked around two hits with a game-ending double play, preserving a two-run win over the Giants. He threw 19 pitches (68.4% strike rate) and induced three whiffs (15.8 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in his last two appearances, recording this save and a win.

  • Cole Henry was credited with his fourth hold despite giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one during one-third of the eighth inning.
  • Konnor Pilkington tossed a clean seventh, striking out one for his first hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Jose A. Ferrer | Cole Henry | Konnor Pilkington

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: Tasked with a tied game at the top of the ninth, Andrew Hoffmann retired the Rockies’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket in order and recorded a strikeout. He collected his first career win on his team’s walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning.
  • Boston Red Sox: With the score tied at the bottom of the tenth, Garrett Whitlock issued Ryan O’Hearn an intentional walk, and with the corners drawn in for a bunt. Ramón Laureano chopped a single into right, scoring the “place” runner, resulting in a walk-off loss. It’s Whitlock’s second loss of the season. Aroldis Chapman retired the side in the ninth on 10 pitches (90% strike rate) with two whiffs.
  • Colorado Rockies: Entering a tied game at the bottom of the eighth, Jimmy Herget navigated around a hit batter and a single for a scoreless inning. He returned for the ninth and induced Ketel Marte’s pop-out, then allowed consecutive doubles, resulting in his second loss. He finished his 1.1 innings with three hits and an earned run while striking out one.
  • Houston Astros: Taking over a tied game at the bottom of the eighth, Bryan King allowed Trent Grisham’s go-ahead solo home run, resulting in his third loss. Kaleb Ort logged 1.1 scoreless frames, striking out one.
  • New York Mets: Taking over with a one-run lead at the bottom of the seventh, Ryne Stanek allowed Brice Turang’s lead-off single, Joey Ortiz’s ground-rule double, and a fielder’s choice groundout, scoring the game-tying run. Ryan Helsley replaced him with a runner on and two outs, but Isaac Collins produced an infield single on a ball mishandled by Ronny Mauricio, scoring the inherited runners. After what seemed like an inning-ending flyout, a pitch clock violation extended the at-bat and William Contreras launched a two-run, go-ahead home run. Helsley finished with two hits against and two earned runs, while Stanek gets tagged with his fifth loss and a fifth blown save.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

This year, the daily emails will change. 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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Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 9

Friday’s full slate had some blowouts, but relievers recorded five wins and five saves while suffering four losses. Another tumultuous outing in the Bronx confirms our hierarchical change made on Wednesday, and there’s a new sheriff in Detroit. Here are last night’s saves in condensed form:

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for August 9

  • Bryan Abreu (HOU): Josh Hader threw a season-high 36 pitches during a two-inning appearance last night. 

Doubleheader Recommendations 

  • Atlanta: Tyler Kinley
  • Miami: Lake Bachar

Vulture Save Stashes for August 10

  • Hunter Gaddis (CLE): If Cade Smith pitches today, it’s back-to-back outings. 
  • Will Vest (DET): If Kyle Finnegan appears today, it’s consecutive contests. 
  • Shelby Miller (MIL): If Trevor Megill and Abner Uribe are used today, it’s two straight games for each leverage reliever. 

Three Takeaways

(1) Devin’s reset awaits: Despite his recent struggles, Devin Williams took over at the top of the tenth, allowing a lead-off go-ahead RBI single by Carlos Correa, retired the next two batters, then gave up Taylor Trammell’s two-run home run before an inning-ending strikeout, resulting in his fifth loss.

He has allowed at least a run in five consecutive games and a home run in three of his last four. Through 48 games with the Yankees, he has allowed three earned runs five times. For Milwaukee, he also allowed three earned runs five times, across 241 appearances. Find someone to stand by you like Aaron Boone does for the “Airbender.”

Not using David Bednar after he threw 42 pitches on Wednesday makes sense; however, passing over Tim Hill or Mark Leiter Jr. in the tenth for a struggling reliever did not work—just another in a long line of tactical errors by Boone.

Hierarchy Remains: *David Bednar | *Luke Weaver | *Camilo Doval

*= closer-by-committee

If Bednar receives and converts the next save chance, the asterisks will be removed.

(2) Once again, it’s Finnegan: Shutting the door on his 23rd save, and third consecutive for the Tigers, Kyle Finnegan fired a clean top of the ninth, recording two strikeouts against the Angels’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket. He threw ten pitches (80% strike rate) and produced two whiffs.

He owns a five-game scoreless streak and has converted all four save chances with a 0.377 WHIP. Troy Melton collected his second win, logging 3.1 innings, giving up two hits, an earned run, and striking out two.

Updated Hierarchy: Kyle Finnegan | Will Vest | Tyler Holton

(3) Garcia took over in the fifth? Entering at the top of the fifth, Robert Garcia stranded a runner and worked 1.1 scoreless innings, giving up a hit and two walks while striking out three. He threw 29 pitches (58.6% strike rate) and induced three whiffs (6.9 SwStr%). This outing snapped a three-game streak during which he allowed at least a run. However, he has been summoned in the fifth and seventh innings in his last two appearances. For now:

Hierarchy Remains: *Phil Maton | *Danny Coulombe | Shawn Armstrong

*= closer-by-committee

However, if Maton gets the next save chance, the committee label will be removed.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Friday.

Leverage Ledger

Baltimore Orioles – Sealing a one-run margin over the A’s, Keegan Akin notched his second save, retiring the side and recording a strikeout while facing the 7-8-9 hitters. He threw 11 pitches (63.6% strike rate) and induced three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in three of four appearances this month while converting both save opportunities.

  • Yennier Cano allowed two hits and an earned run while recording his 16th hold. He has given up at least a run in two of his last three games.

Hierarchy Remains: *Keegan Akin | *Yennier Cano | *Corbin Martin

*= closer-by-committee

Houston Astros – Earning his sixth win, Josh Hader retired the side at the bottom of the ninth, then let the “place” runner score on Anthony Volpe’s RBI single, and issued a walk while throwing a season-high 36 pitches (66.7% strike rate) with three whiffs (8.3 SwStr%) during his two innings.

This marked his fourth two-inning outing this year and his seventh requiring four or more outs, matching his total from last year on August 8. It’s a big win, but he may be down for the remainder of the series.

  • Bryan Abreu fired a clean bottom of the eighth, striking out two.
  • Bennett Sousa logged 1.2 clean frames, stranding two runners at the bottom of the sixth and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bennett Sousa

Milwaukee Brewers – Securing his 27th save, Trevor Megill can thank Blake Perkins, who ended the one-run win with a game-ending throw to home, cutting down the potential game-tying run. Megill recorded two quick outs, then gave up Starling Marte’s double and Jeff McNeil’s single during a scoreless appearance. He threw 13 pitches (76.9% strike rate) and induced one whiff.

He has converted his last nine save chances and been scoreless in his previous 11, posting a 0.583 WHIP with 12 strikeouts against one walk across 10.1 innings.

  • Abner Uribe racked up his MLB-leading 27th hold with a scoreless eighth, walking one and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

Pittsburgh Pirates – Capping his team’s come-from-behind rally at the bottom of the eighth, Dennis Santana locked down his seventh save, retiring the side and striking out one against the Reds’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket. He threw eight pitches (75% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (25 SwStr%).

After a rough start in August, this marked his first save since July 29 and his second clean appearance in his last four.

  • Kyle Nicolas collected his first win, allowing a hit and striking out two at the top of the eighth.
  • Dauri Moreta worked 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out three.

Hierarchy Remains: Dennis Santana | Isaac Mattson | Ryan Borucki

Seattle Mariners – Handed a one-run lead, Matt Brash filled in capably for a resting Andrés Muñoz, firing a clean top of the ninth while striking out the side. He threw 19 pitches (52.6% strike rate) and generated four whiffs (23.5 SwStr%) while facing the Rays’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket.

It’s his first save since June 24, and he has been scoreless in six of his last seven games with seven strikeouts against two walks across 5.1 innings.

  • Carlos Vargas retired the side at the top of the eighth, then collected his fourth win after his team’s three-run rally at the bottom of the frame.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: Sealing a five-run win over the Rockies, Casey Kelly issued a walk during a scoreless top of the ninth. Andrew Saalfrank allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless eighth. Kendall Graveman worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one.
  • Cincinnati Reds: Taking over with a one-run lead at the bottom of the eighth, Tony Santillan issued a one-out walk, then gave up consecutive two-out hits, including a two-RBI triple by Bryan Reynolds, resulting in his fourth loss and a third blown save. He finished with two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out two.
  • Cleveland Guardians: Closing out a four-run lead, Cade Smith worked around a two-out single and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless bottom of the ninth, throwing 22 pitches (59.1% strike rate) with one whiff.
  • Colorado Rockies: In an eventual five-run loss, Juan Mejia fired a scoreless bottom of the eighth, hitting a batter and recording two strikeouts on 17 pitches (70.6% strike rate) with four whiffs (23.5 SwStr%). 
  • Los Angeles Angels: Reid Detmers suffered his third loss and a fourth blown save, issuing two walks and serving up Matt Vierling’s go-ahead three-run home run during one-third of the eighth.
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: Protecting a four-run lead, Blake Treinen allowed a two-out single by Ty France during a scoreless top of the ninth. He threw 14 pitches (64.3% strike rate) without a whiff.
  • San Francisco Giants: As the “bulk follower,” Kai-Wei Teng collected his first career win, logging five scoreless frames while scattering three hits and walking one with four strikeouts.
  • St. Louis Cardinals: Completing a combined shutout, Riley O’Brien retired the side against the Cubs’ 7-8-9 hitters, throwing nine pitches (77.8% strike rate) and getting one whiff (11.1 SwStr%). JoJo Romero fired a scoreless eighth, matched up against Kyle Tucker (HBP) and Pete Crow-Armstrong (flyout), while recording one strikeout. Matt Svanson tossed a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out two.
  • Tampa Bay Rays: With a two-run lead during a shutout, Griffin Jax struggled at the bottom of the eighth in Seattle. He allowed consecutive one-out singles, then gave up Cal Raleigh’s go-ahead three-run home run with two outs, resulting in his sixth loss and a sixth blown save. It’s the third time in ten appearances during the second half he has allowed multiple runs.

News, Notes, and Observations

Boston Red Sox

Once Slaten returns, this bullpen gets another right-handed high-leverage option.

Los Angeles Dodgers

Help may be on the way, by the end of the month:

Philadelphia Phillies

Two upcoming roster notes of interest:

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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Statistical Credits:

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Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 8

Sorry for the delay, but the four-game slate provided time for research this morning. After our recaps, we’ll take a look at our bullpens, which are designated as committees for stash candidates or diamonds in the rough. In Thursday’s games, relievers recorded two wins, a save, and two losses.

Here are the leverage events of interest from the slate.

Leverage Ledger

Atlanta Braves – Locking down his 15th save, Raisel Iglesias retired the side and recorded two strikeouts while preserving a two-run lead against the Marlins. He threw 15 pitches (60% strike rate) and produced four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%) while extending his scoreless streak to six games.

Iglesias has converted his last four saves in this stretch, posting a 0.50 WHIP with six strikeouts and zero walks (28.6 K-BB%) through six innings.

  • Dylan Lee notched his 11th hold, firing a clean top of the eighth, striking out two.
  • Pierce Johnson collected his third win, allowing a hit and striking out one during a scoreless seventh, ahead of his team’s two-run rally at the bottom of the inning.

Hierarchy Remains: Raisel Iglesias | Dylan Lee | Pierce Johnson

Chicago White Sox – With the score tied at the bottom of the 11th, Brandon Eisert recorded a strikeout, intentionally walked Mitch Garver, and allowed a walk-off RBI single by Dominic Canzone, resulting in his third loss. Steven Wilson retired his three batters faced at the bottom of the tenth, striking out one.

  • Tyler Gilbert worked a scoreless ninth, but the “place” runner scored on a throwing error during a bunt at the bottom of the tenth, putting an unearned run on his ledger before his removal.
  • Grant Taylor navigated around a hit and two walks with two strikeouts for a scoreless eighth.
  • Bryan Hudson walked one and struck out one during his two-thirds of the seventh.
  • Jordan Leasure fired 1.1 clean frames between the sixth and seventh innings, striking out two. 

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

*= closer-by-committee

Miami Marlins – In order of appearance, Ronny Henriquez stranded a runner at the bottom of the sixth, giving up a hit and striking out one while retiring two batters for his 17th hold.

Josh Simpson struggled in the eighth, allowing a hit, two runs (one earned), a walk, and a hit-batter while striking out one. This outing resulted in his first loss and a first blown save.

  • Anthony Bender stranded one of two inherited runners, giving up a hit and a walk during two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Cade Gibson gave up two hits and an earned run at the bottom of the eighth while striking out one.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Seattle Mariners – After stranding the “place” runner at the top of the 11th, Jackson Kowar collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning.

  • Eduard Bazardo allowed a walk and an unearned run while striking out one at the top of the tenth.
  • Andrés Muñoz fired a clean ninth, striking out one on ten pitches (70% strike rate) and inducing one whiff.
  • Matt Brash navigated around two hits and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless eighth.
  • Gabe Speier retired both batters, striking out one at the top of the seventh.
  • Carlos Vargas stranded two runners at the top of the sixth, but allowed Brooks Baldwin’s game-tying solo home run at the top of the seventh, resulting in his sixth blown save.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

Quick Hits

  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Finishing a combined shutout, Kyle Nicolas allowed Gavin Lux’s lead-off single, then retired the next three batters while striking out one. Ryan Borucki gave up a hit and struck out two in a scoreless top of the eighth. Cam Sanders retired the side on ten pitches at the top of the seventh. 
  • The Athletics: Completing a combined shutout, Justin Sterner retired all four batters faced, two via strikeout, throwing 11 pitches (72.7% strike rate) and inducing two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He has been scoreless in his last two appearances.
  • Washington Nationals: Tossing 1.1 scoreless frames during a shutout loss, Jackson Rutledge allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts. He threw 20 pitches (70% strike rate) and produced two whiffs.

Noting there are 11 teams designated with a committee after the trade deadline, our next phase of this post will focus on relievers of interest in some situations for potential saves for the rest of the season. However, this remains fluid based on performance and usage patterns.

Post-Trade Deadline Relievers on the Rise

Phil Maton (TEX)

  • Season Statistics: 43 appearances, 41.1 innings, 1-3 record, three saves, 21 holds, two blown saves, 2.18 ERA, 2.90 SIERA, 2.61 xERA, 1.09 WHIP, 14 swinging strike percentage, 69.2 contact percentage, 28.1 percent hard hit rate

He recorded his first save for Texas on Tuesday and has been scoreless in his last six appearances with a 0.50 WHIP, six strikeouts versus two walks (20 K-BB%), and a 10.3 swinging strike percentage. He has used four pitches this year, but two have been the most effective:

  • Maton’s curve: 20.6 swinging strike percentage, 29.2 K-BB percentage, .224 weighted on-base average (wOBA)
  • Maton’s cutter: 11.2 swinging strike percentage, 23.6 K-BB percentage, .265 wOBA

Although his manager suggested there are multiple relievers capable of closing games, Robert Garcia’s appearance in the seventh inning on Wednesday, combined with his recent struggles, opens the door for Maton to emerge as the leader in saves for the remainder of the season.

David Bednar (NYY)

It’s a crowded bullpen, but the fan base has grown weary of Devin Williams. Bednar stepped up in a colossal way, securing his first save for New York, grinding out 1.2 scoreless frames during a one-run win in Texas. From being demoted to possibly becoming the primary save share for the Yankees, it would make for one heck of a documentary. Here are his splits this year:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Kw5cR/4/

Kyle Finnegan (DET)

It’s a small sample, but in two games with the Tigers, Finnegan has tweaked his pitch mix with eyes on generating more whiffs. First, his pitch usage trends:

  • 2025: Four-seam fastball (64.6 percent use), split-finger (30.2 percent use), slider (5.1 percent use)
  • With Detroit: Four-seam fastball (45.2 percent use), split-finger (41.9 percent use), slider (12.9 percent use)

Here are the splits from his 31 pitches for Detroit:

  • Four-seam fastball: 14 pitches, .130 xBA, .121 x2ObA, 66 hard-hit percentage of three batted ball events
  • Split-finger fastball: 13 pitches, 23.1 swinging strike percentage, .232 xBA, .214 xwOBA, 50 percent whiff rate, zero hard hit percentage on one batted ball event

While he has notched two saves, Will Vest has struggled in the second half. Through six appearances, he has a 1.69 WHIP with six strikeouts versus zero walks across 5.1 innings. His underlying data yields more concerning information. He has recorded a 10.3 swinging strike percentage, an 81 percent contact rate allowed, and a 44.4 hard-hit percentage. How each reliever gets deployed over the next week may determine their respective fantasy relevance through the end of the season.

JoJo Romero and Riley O’Brien (STL)

Shared save situations may not be ideal, but the Cardinals have found success utilizing Romero for save opportunities when possible, as well as against an opponent’s toughest left-handed hitters or in key situations to preserve a lead. He has converted two saves and recorded a win in the second half with a 1.07 WHIP, 2.21 SIERA, and 23.7 K-BB percentage. He’s also posted a 14.3 swinging strike percentage, a 69.8 percent contact allowed, and a hard-hit percentage of 28 through 9.1 innings through eight outings.

O’Brien had a memorable series against the Dodgers, recording his first career win and save. In seven games during the second half, he has a 1.00 WHIP with a 3.76 SIERA and a 6.9 K-BB percentage. His walks and low swinging strike percentage (9.6 percent in the second half) should provide fantasy managers with some caution. His velocity and 56 percent ground ball rate will benefit him during save chances when provided, but he has to reduce the free passes (four walks of 29 batters faced in the second half).

Justin Topa (MIN)

Noting the Twins have only produced three saves, by three different pitchers in the second half, should be the first red flag, but for some, saves are saves. Topa has been surprisingly good since the All-Star break, logging eight appearances with a 1.22 WHIP, ten strikeouts versus two walks (21.6 K-BB percentage), and a 2.29 SIERA. He does allow contact (79.7 percent) and hard-hits (52 percent), but relies on his 48.6 ground ball percentage to stay out of trouble. Minnesota has been trying to get Ryan Pressly to sign a free-agent deal, but for now, it appears Topa should be the preferred option in this leverage ladder. If he gets the next save chance, the committee designation will be removed.

Unsettled Bullpens

Arizona Diamondbacks

  • In the second half, the team has four saves by four different pitchers. One was placed on the 60-day injured list (Kevin Ginkel), one was moved into the rotation (Anthony DeSclafani), one was demoted (Kyle Nelson), and one remains in the current bullpen (Kyle Backhus).

However, the options have not distinguished themselves, although Backhus has some intrigue but needs more outings to move toward his 2.75 SIERA, not his current 8.44 ERA.

Baltimore Orioles

  • Keegan Akin has been the preferred option for saves, but he’s posted a -14.3 K-BB percentage, a 2.00 WHIP, and a 7.58 SIERA. Of more significant concern, he has an 8.1 swinging strike percentage, 85.3 percent contact rate allowed, and a 37.5 hard-hit percentage since his return from the injured list.
  • Yennier Cano has a 1.35 WHIP with a 5.20 SIERA in the second half: his 9.4 swinging strike percentage, a 79.1 percent contact rate allowed, and a 40.9 hard-hit percentage.

Chicago White Sox

Because saves have been so fluidly dispersed and sporadic, it’s tough mining this bullpen for them. Here are the splits for three relievers, which, after reviewing them, changed our team hierarchy.

  • Jordan Leasure: nine innings, 12:2 K:BB (29.4 K-BB percentage), 0.78 WHIP, 2.62 SIERA, 16.9 swinging strike percentage, 68.5 percent contact rate allowed, 25 percent hard-hit rate.
  • Grant Taylor: 4.2 innings as a reliever, 8:4 K:BB (21.1 K-BB percentage), 1.50 WHIP, 3.66 SIERA, 17.8 swinging strike percentage, 53.6 percent contact rate allowed, 85.7 percent hard-hit rate.
  • Steven Wilson: 10.2 innings, 9:3 K:BB (12.2 K-BB percentage), 1.50 WHIP, 4.55 SIERA, 13.2 swinging strike percentage, 74.4 percent contact rate allowed, 38.9 percent hard-hit rate.

Colorado Rockies

  • Lost closer Seth Halvorsen to the injured list, putting Victor Vodnik into save situations. However, he has multiple runs in two of his last three and at least a run in four of his previous five games.
  • Jimmy Herget has logged six appearances, spanning 11.2 innings since the All-Star break with ten strikeouts versus one walk (19.6 K-BB percentage), a 0.77 WHIP, and a 3.60 SIERA.
  • Juan Mejia could be a viable option before the end of the season. He has recorded 11 strikeouts against three walks (30.8 K-BB percentage) with a 1.17 WHIP, and a 2.17 SIERA. He also has a 21.2 swinging strike percentage with a 54.7 percent contact rate allowed, and a 36.4 hard-hit percentage through five games and six innings since the break.

Miami Marlins

Usage patterns have varied under the guidance of Clayton McCullough. Since the All-Star break, the team has recorded seven saves, by five pitchers, with only Calvin Faucher having multiple saves (three). He and Ronny Henriquez have been the only two worth using for fantasy purposes:

  • Faucher: seven games, three saves, one hold, one blown save, 7.2 innings, 8:4 K:BB (12.9 K-BB percentage), 1.17 WHIP, 3.88 SIERA, 9.9 swinging strike percentage, 75 percent contact rate allowed, 36.8 hard-hit percentage.
  • Henriquez: 11 games, one win, one save, five holds, two blown saves, 10.1 innings, 15:6 K:BB (20.5 K-BB percentage), 1.26 WHIP, 3.20 SIERA, 14.2 swinging strike percentage, 68.4 percent contact rate allowed, 47.8 percent hard-hit rate.

The Athletics

The team has only posted two saves in the second half. One by its traded closer (Mason Miller) and one by a reliever who has entered the rotation, Jack Perkins. Although Michael Kelly projects as the replacement, Sean Newcomb remains an intriguing option.

  • Michael Kelly: seven games, 7.1 innings, 6:1 K:BB (16.7 K-BB percentage), 1.23 WHIP, 3.09 SIERA, 14.4 swinging strike percentage, 68.9 percent contact rate allowed, 30.4 hard-hit percentage.
  • Sean Newcomb: eight games, 10.2 innings, 14:2 K:BB (33.3 K-BB percentage), 0.66 WHIP, 1.64 SIERA, 12.1 swinging strike percentage, 77.5 percent contact rate allowed, 25 hard-hit percentage. He leads the team in Win Probability added in the second half.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 7

Wednesday’s full slate provided a bevy of decisions for relievers who recorded seven wins and nine saves while suffering six losses. There were saves in many forms, including a one-out save and a five-out save. Here they are in condensed form:

Another light schedule for the save streamers, though yesterday’s recommendations went 2-for-2:

Vulture Save Option for August 7

  • Matt Brash (SEA): Andrés Muñoz threw 26 pitches in last night’s game. 

Vulture Save Stash for August 8

  • Pierce Johnson (ATL): If Raisel Iglesias pitches today, it’s consecutive appearances, and with a doubleheader on Saturday, he should be rested on Friday. 
  • Luke Weaver (NYY): Given David Bednar’s elevated pitch count during his save yesterday, he should get an extra day of rest until Saturday.

Three Takeaways

(1) Santana struggles again: Pressed into action at the top of the eighth, Dennis Santana stranded two of three inherited runners, allowing a sacrifice fly, then retiring Casey Schmitt on a flyout. Returning for the ninth in a tied game, he recorded a quick out, then allowed Jung Hoo Lee’s one-out double, followed by Dominic Smith’s RBI double, and Patrick Bailey’s RBI single, before recording his second out of the inning. This resulted in his fourth loss and a second blown save. He finished with three hits and two earned runs over his 1.1 innings. First, his illustrator:

And his results:

His current 2.57 ERA is accompanied by a 3.72 SIERA and a 3.62 xERA, indicating that further regression may occur. His swinging strike rate and contact percent allowed are in line with last season, and he still has a WHIP below one (0.94). While his next few outings should be monitored closely, staying out of the heart of the strike zone should defray more multiple run outings, but he’s on watch until clean outings are posted.

Hierarchy Remains: Dennis Santana | Isaac Mattson | Ryan Borucki

(2) “The Renegade” works overtime in Texas: With the bullpen stretched thin based on recent usage patterns, David Bednar took over with a one-run lead at the top of the eighth. He worked around Joc Pederson’s walk with consecutive strikeouts. In the ninth, he recorded two quick strikeouts, then walked Corey Seager and allowed Marcus Semien’s single before a game-ending strikeout of Adolis García, nailing down his first save for the Yankees and his 18th of the season. He threw 42 pitches (59.5% strike rate) and produced six whiffs (14.3 SwStr%) during his five-out save, yielding a hit and walking two while striking out five.

This marked his third 1.2 inning outing this season and his first five-out save since July 29, 2023. How Aaron Boone will mix and match during high-leverage events remains to be seen, but Bednar has stated his case with back-to-back scoreless appearances. For now:

Adjusted Hierarchy: *David Bednar | *Luke Weaver | *Camilo Doval

*= closer-by-commmittee

(3) Garcia’s loss may be Maton’s gain: Not sure this was the soft landing Bruce Bochy was searching for, but Robert Garcia took over a tied game at the top of the seventh against the Yankees’ 8-9-1 lineup pocket. After retiring Amed Rosario, he allowed Paul Goldschmidt’s pinch-hit, go-ahead solo home run, resulting in his seventh loss. Garcia finished with two hits and an earned run while striking out one during two-thirds of the seventh. Of a larger concern, he has allowed a home run in all three appearances in August. Worse, he has lost the trust of his manager. The most frustrating part of this is his underlying indicators point toward a rebound, but for now:

Updated Hierarchy: *Phil Maton | *Danny Coulombe | Shawn Armstrong

*= closer-by-committee

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Wednesday.

Leverage Ledger

Chicago Cubs – Getting in work during a non-save outing, Daniel Palencia allowed TJ Friedl’s lead-off single, recorded a strikeout, followed by Elly De La Cruz’s single and a wild pitch putting the runners at second and third. Austin Hays produced an RBI groundout, spoiling the shutout before a game-ending strikeout of Gavin Lux. Palencia finished with two hits and an earned run while striking out one on 25 pitches (64% strike rate) with two whiffs. In save situations this season (save or hold), he has allowed three earned runs through 23 innings (0.736 WHIP), and in non-save appearances, he has given up five earned runs (1.123 WHIP) across 18.2 innings.

  • Brad Keller retired the side at the top of the eighth.
  • Andrew Kittredge bounced back from his loss yesterday with an immaculate inning, securing his tenth hold in the seventh.
  • Drew Pomeranz stranded a runner and retired his only batter via strikeout in the sixth for his ninth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Andrew Kittredge

Cleveland Guardians – Completing a combined one-hit shutout, Hunter Gaddis recorded his second save despite only throwing three pitches. He was summoned with a runner on and two outs at the bottom of the ninth, replacing Gavin Williams, and induced a game-ending flyout by Mark Vientos, securing the three-run win. This was a soft landing for the reliever who struggled his last time out, allowing four hits and two earned runs during a blown save on Monday at the bottom of the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis | Nic Enright

Miami Marlins – Clayton McCullough’s reliever roulette landed on Lake Bachar. He closed out a two-run lead against the Astros’ top of the lineup, working around Jose Altuve’s two-out single with a game-ending strikeout of Christian Walker for his second save. He threw 16 pitches (75% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%).

  • Calvin Faucher escaped a bases-loaded jam with a forceout at home and an inning-ending catch on a shallow fly ball by Xavier Edwards. He allowed two hits and a walk, while striking out one for his sixth hold at the top of the eighth.
  • Ronny Henriquez notched his 16th hold, yielding a hit and striking out three in a scoreless seventh.
  • Anthony Bender was credited with his 19th hold, allowing three hits and an earned run while striking out two in the sixth.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Milwaukee Brewers – Handed a two-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, Trevor Megill held on for his 26th save, despite allowing Michael Harris’ solo home run. Megill threw 14 pitches (71.4% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%) while recording a strikeout in his outing.

His nine-game scoreless streak was halted, but he has converted his last eight save chances since July 4 while posting a 0.43 WHIP with 12 strikeouts against one walk (34.4 K-BB%) across 9.1 innings.

  • Abner Uribe locked down his MLB-leading 29th hold with a clean bottom of the eighth while striking out two.
  • Jared Koenig worked a clean seventh, striking out one for his 22nd hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

San Diego Padres – Avenging last night’s outing, Mason Miller preserved a one-run win over Arizona with a scoreless bottom of the ninth, issuing a walk and recording all three outs via strikeout. He threw 15 pitches (73.3% strike rate) and generated five whiffs (33.3 SwStr%) in a near-dominant performance.

  • Adrian Morejon collected his MLB-leading nine wins among all qualified relievers. He logged two scoreless frames while giving up a hit.
  • Jason Adam faced four hitters and retired them all on strikeouts, stranding two runners at the bottom of the fifth, then working a clean sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Mason Miller | Jason Adam

San Francisco Giants – Capping his team’s two-run rally at the top of the ninth, Randy Rodríguez retired the side, recording his third save. He threw 13 pitches (61.5% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).

He has converted two of three save chances in August, and hopefully, this clean outing gets him back on track.

  • Ryan Walker collected his fourth win, working around two hits and striking out three in a scoreless bottom of the eighth.
  • José Buttó tossed a clean seventh, keeping his team within one run.

Hierarchy Remains: Randy Rodríguez | Ryan Walker | Joey Lucchesi

Seattle Mariners – Battling through a lack of command, Andrés Muñoz held on for his 26th save, finishing a two-run win over the White Sox. However, his outing began with Michael A. Taylor’s solo home run, followed by consecutive walks, but he bore down getting a strikeout, a lineout, and a game-ending groundout. Muñoz threw 26 pitches (57.7% strike rate) and only induced one whiff.

He has converted his last five save chances, but this appearance snapped his eight-game scoreless streak.

  • Gabe Speier notched his 15th hold, retiring the side and striking out two at the top of the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

St. Louis Cardinals – Summoned at the bottom of the eighth with two outs and a runner on, Riley O’Brien retired four of five batters faced for his first career save. He issued Max Muncy a two-out walk at the bottom of the ninth, but induced a game-ending groundout by Alex Freeland, preventing the lineup from turning over. O’Brien threw 20 pitches (45% strike rate) without a whiff during his 1.1 scoreless frames.

  • JoJo Romero collected his fourth win, giving up a hit and striking out one during his combined inning of relief.
  • Kyle Leahy logged 2.2 scoreless innings, yielding a hit and striking out four.

Updated Hierarchy: *JoJo Romero | *Riley O’Brien | Kyle Leahy

*= closer-by-committee

Tampa Bay Rays – Locking down his 19th save, Pete Fairbanks preserved a one-run margin while retiring the side against the Angels. He threw 14 pitches (71.4% strike rate) and induced one whiff while recording a strikeout.

This marked his first save since July 28, and he has been scoreless through three appearances in August.

  • Griffin Jax worked into and then out of trouble at the bottom of the eighth. His outing began with a hit, followed by a walk, and Jo Adell reaching on catcher’s interference. However, Jax bore down by striking out the next three batters for his 23rd hold.
  • Bryan Baker worked a clean seventh, striking out one for his 13th hold.
  • Garrett Cleavinger collected his first win, tossing a scoreless sixth, walking and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Pete Fairbanks | Griffin Jax | Edwin Uceta

Washington Nationals – With the score tied at the top of the ninth, Jose A. Ferrer retired the A’s 7-8-9 lineup pocket in order and recorded a strikeout on 12 pitches (83.3% strike rate) with three whiffs (25 SwStr%).

He collected his third win after his team’s walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He has not been provided a save chance since the trade deadline, but he remains in line for the first one based on this usage pattern.

  • Shinnosuke Ogasawara worked 1.1 scoreless innings, walking and striking out one.
  • Cole Henry retired all three batters, two via strikeout, during his combined inning of relief.

Updated Hierarchy: Jose A. Ferrer | Cole Henry | Shinnosuke Ogasawara

Quick Hits

  • Atlanta Braves: During an eventual one-run loss, Raisel Iglesias worked a scoreless top of the ninth, giving up a hit and striking out one. He’s amid a modest five-game scoreless streak.
  • Boston Red Sox: A rough outing for Jordan Hicks. He allowed consecutive one-out singles, followed by Jonathan India’s three-run home run, and recorded a strikeout at the top of the seventh. This snapped his two-game scoreless streak, and he has allowed multiple runs in two of his last four appearances.
  • Colorado Rockies: In a lopsided loss, Victor Vodnik allowed three hits, including a solo home run by Vladimir Guerrero Jr., two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one during two-thirds of the top of the eighth. He has allowed multiple runs in two of his last three and at least a run in four of his previous five games.
  • Detroit Tigers: Making his first appearance since Saturday, Will Vest retired the side against the Twins’ 5-6-7 lineup pocket, throwing 11 pitches (63.6% strike rate) and inducing one whiff.
  • Kansas City Royals: Finishing a four-run win in Boston, Carlos Estévez retired the side and recorded two strikeouts at the bottom of the ninth. He threw 10 pitches (90% strike rate) and produced three whiffs. This was an encouraging outing, but he has not registered a save since July 29.
  • Los Angeles Angels: Appearing during an eventual one-run loss, Kenley Jansen worked around a walk for a scoreless top of the ninth while recording one strikeout. This extends his scoreless streak to 13 games, during which he has posted a 0.525 WHIP with 14 strikeouts versus two walks (26.1 K-BB%) across 13.1 innings.
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: Taking over at the top of the eighth, Alex Vesia allowed three hits, two runs (one earned), and a walk while striking out one, resulting in his first loss and a second blown save. He had given up one run in his previous 17 appearances since June 22.
  • Minnesota Twins: As the “bulk follower,” Thomas Hatch earned his first win, tossing 4.1 scoreless frames, scattering two hits and walking one while striking out three
  • The Athletics: Tasked with a tied game at the bottom of the ninth, Michael Kelly suffered his first loss. He allowed a lead-off double by Robert Hassell III, recorded a strikeout on a failed bunt attempt, then gave up CJ Abrams’ walk-off RBI single. Sean Newcomb logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out two.

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Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

BaseballSavant.com

BrooksBaseball.net