Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 2

During the first full slate following the trade deadline on Friday, there were team debuts for many relievers, but none were as electric as the one by Jhoan Durán in Philadelphia, especially his entrance. The excitement did not end here, as five games ended in walk-off rallies. Relievers recorded eight wins and seven saves while suffering seven losses across the 15 contests. Here are the saves in condensed form:

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for August 2

  • Tony Santillan (CIN): Pagán has pitched in back-to-back games and three of the previous four. 
  • Nic Enright (CLE): Smith logged two innings last night. 

Vulture Save Stash for August 3

  • Ben Brown (CHC): If he’s not used today and Palencia is, it will be consecutive contests for the closer and three in four days. 

Three Takeaways

(1) Rough RP debuts for the Yankees: It was not a banner night for the trade deadline acquisitions in Miami; it was though, historic:

Camilo Doval could not close out a two-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, though his defense did him no favors. He allowed a one-out single, followed by a walk, and Xavier Edward’s RBI single, which went under José Caballero’s glove in right, scoring two runs and putting him on third. After a mound visit, Doval induced a squibber, but the walk-off run scored, resulting in his third loss and a fifth blown save, but only one of the three runs was earned. David Bednar gave up four hits and two earned runs while striking out two over 1.2 innings. Jake Bird allowed three hits, including Kyle Stowers’ pinch-hit grand slam, and a walk while striking out one in one-third of the seventh.

Before this game, Bryan Hoch shared this tweet about leverage roles:

However, Devin Williams had thrown 44 pitches between two games on July 29 and 30, and 57 pitches in three games since July 27, so he was unavailable. For now:

Updated Hierarchy: Devin Williams | Luke Weaver | Camilo Doval

(2) Hinch’s leverage machinations: This was not a masterclass in bullpen management. Tyler Holton took over with a runner on and no outs at the bottom of the seventh, lined up against the Phillies’ 6-7-8 lineup pocket featuring two left-handed hitters, but was countered by consecutive pinch hitters, who singled and walked to load the bases. After a lineout and a sacrifice fly, he was removed for Will Vest. However, his struggles with runners on base continued as he gave up an RBI single by Trea Turner, followed by Kyle Schwarber’s game-tying RBI single before getting an inning-ending strikeout of Bryce Harper, resulting in his fifth blown save. Brenan Hanifee took over in the eighth with a one-run lead, giving up two hits, two runs (one earned), and recording two strikeouts en route to his third loss and a first blown save. Brant Hurter let one of two inherited runners score and struck out one in one-third of the eighth. All of this ended in a one-run loss on the road.

In games against teams with winning records, A.J. Hinch has played match-ups more than defined roles. But Vest has not been at his best entering muddled situations (inherited runners), letting eight of 17 score this season (52.9% strand rate). He has been much more effective taking over clean innings. In this column by Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press, Hinch explained Kyle Finnegan‘s role, with a note suggesting he would operate in a setup capacity. For now:

Updated Hierarchy: Will Vest | Kyle Finnegan | Tyler Holton

(3) Coors Field strikes again: Entering with a four-run lead in Colorado, things escalated quickly after Dennis Santana recorded a strikeout against Ezequiel Tovar. Hunter Goodman launched a solo home run, Jordan Beck walked, Warming Bernabel tripled him in, cutting the lead to two, Thairo Estrada trimmed the lead to one with an RBI single, followed by Brenton Doyle’s walk-off two-run home run, resulting in Santana’s third loss. Before this outing, he had allowed one home run through his first 46 appearances this season. He finished with four hits, five earned runs, and a walk while striking out one during a Coors Field special, raising his ERA by almost a run (1.36 to 2.31). This was also a historic appearance:

Consider this migration to the mean and move on, though it’s rough on the ratios.

Hierarchy Remains: Dennis Santana | Isaac Mattson | Ryan Borucki

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Friday.

Leverage Ledger

Boston Red Sox – Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Greg Weissert collected his fourth win after tossing a clean top of the tenth against the Astros, throwing 12 pitches (66.7% strike rate) without a whiff.

Aroldis Chapman fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout against the 5-6-7 lineup pocket on nine pitches (77.8% strike rate) while producing two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in 16 of his last 17 appearances, posting a 0.573 WHIP with 26 strikeouts against four walks (39.3 K-BB%) through 15.2 innings while converting eight of nine save opportunities.

Garrett Whitock retired the 2-3-4 hitters in order and recorded a strikeout in the eighth, extending his scoreless streak to ten games.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Garrett Whitlock | Jordan Hicks

Chicago Cubs –Completing a combined 1-0 win over the Orioles, Daniel Palencia worked around Adley Rutschman’s two-out double with a game-ending flyout by Tyler O’Neill, securing his 15th save. He threw nine pitches (66.7% strike rate) without a whiff.

This extends his scoreless streak to nine games, during which he has a 0.575 WHIP with seven strikeouts and zero walks (23.3 K-BB%) through 8.2 innings.

  • Brad Keller notched his 16th hold, walking one and striking out two during a scoreless top of the eighth.
  • Andrew Kittredge made his team debut with a clean seventh while recording two strikeouts for his eighth hold.
  • Caleb Thielbar retired the side and recorded a strikeout, securing his 14th hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Andrew Kittredge

Chicago White Sox – In order of appearance, Jordan Leasure took over at the bottom of the fifth and retired all five batters, four via strikeout on 21 pitches (81% strike rate) with six whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). He was awarded his fourth win for his efforts.

  • Dan Altavilla gave up a hit, a hit batter, an earned run, and a walk while recording one out at the bottom of the seventh, getting credit for his first hold.
  • Grant Taylor was summoned with the bases loaded and one out, allowing one inherited runner to score on a sacrifice fly. His outing ended on a single by Nolan Schanuel, with a runner being thrown out at third, for his sixth hold.
  • Steven Wilson replaced him and logged two scoreless frames with three strikeouts, sealing the win for his second save. He threw 23 pitches (71.4% strike rate) with five whiffs (21.7 SwStr%). It’s his first save since May 23 and continues the closer-by-committee chaos created by Will Venable, where roles have been fluid all season.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Cincinnati Reds – Although he could not complete the combined shutout, Emilio Pagán hung on for his 23rd save despite dealing with traffic during his outing. He Marcell Ozuna a lead-off walk, a leverage no-no, followed by a single by Michael Harris II, and Ozzie Albies’ RBI single, putting runners on the corners with no out. After a mound visit, Pagán bore down, recording a strikeout, allowing a sacrifice fly, and getting a game-ending groundout against Jurickson Profar, preserving a one-run win. He finished with two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one on 20 pitches (55% strike rate) with one whiff. His illustrator:

And results, where I believe some fatigue is setting in:

He has allowed at least a run in his last three appearances.

  • Tony Santillan notched his 23rd hold, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out two in a scoreless eighth.
  • Scott Barlow tossed a clean seventh, striking out one for his 13th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Cleveland Guardians – Logging two clean frames, Cade Smith was rewarded with his third win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the tenth against the Twins. He threw 23 pitches (65.2% strike rate) and produced four whiffs (17.4 SwStr%) while recording three strikeouts.

  • Nic Enright tossed a clean top of the eighth and recorded a strikeout.
  • Hunter Gaddis suffered his third blown save, letting both inherited runners score on Austin Martin’s two-RBI single upon entry at the top of the seventh, then retired Alan Roden via strikeout.
  • Eric Sabrowski gets credit for his fourth hold despite allowing a hit and two earned runs while striking out one during two-thirds of the seventh.

Before the game, this was shared by Zack Meisel of The Athletic:

He feels Emmanuel Clase will be potentially banned, putting fantasy players into a tough spot in leagues with shallow bench space.

Hierarchy Remains: Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis | Tim Herrin

Houston Astros – Tasked with a tied score at the bottom of the tenth, Bennett Sousa had Ceddanne Rafaela reach on a fielder’s choice on a bunt, and allowed Roman Anthony’s walk-off RBI single, resulting in his first loss.

  • Josh Hader worked around a hit and a walk while striking out one in the bottom of the ninth. He threw 20 pitches (75% strike rate) and generated five whiffs (25 SwStr%). He owns a modest five-game scoreless streak.
  • Bryan Abreu retired the side on 13 pitches at the bottom of the eighth, keeping the game tied.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bennett Sousa

Minnesota Twins – With the score tied at the bottom of the tenth, Kody Funderburk took over and allowed a bunt single by Steven Kwan, recorded a strikeout against David Fry, intentionally walked José Ramírez, then allowed a walk-off single by Kyle Manzardo, resulting in his first loss.

  • Michael Tonkin tossed a clean bottom of the ninth, keeping the game tied.
  • Cole Sands worked a scoreless eighth, hitting a batter and striking out one against the Guardians’ 2-3-4-5 hitters, used as the highest-leverage reliever, not as a closer.
  • Justin Topa allowed a hit during a scoreless seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: *Cole Sands | *Michael Tonkin | *Justin Topa

*= closer-by-committee

New York Mets – Taking over at the top of the tenth, Edwin Díaz let the “place” runner score on Dominic Smith’s one-out RBI single, issued a walk, then retired the next two hitters. He finished with a hit, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out one during his first loss, snapping his 17-game scoreless streak. He threw 19 pitches (63.2% strike rate) and produced four whiffs (21.1 SwStr%).

  • Ryan Helsley made his team debut, giving up two hits and striking out three in a scoreless eighth on 16 pitches (87.5% strike rate) with seven whiffs (43.8 SwStr%). 

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Ryan Heslely | Tyler Rogers

Philadelphia Phillies – Paying immediate dividends, Jhoan Durán nailed down his first save for the Phillies, and 17th of the season, preserving a one-run win over Detroit by retiring their 3-4-5 hitters on four pitches.

He has converted his last seven save chances since June 25 while posting a 1.20 WHIP with 13 strikeouts against four walks across 15 innings.

  • Orion Kerkering allowed Wenceel Perez’s go-ahead solo home run but collected his sixth win courtesy of his team’s two-run rally at the bottom of the inning. 

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

San Diego Padres – Despite allowing Victor Scott II’s lead-off single, Robert Suarez secured his MLB-leading 31st save by inducing a flyout and a game-ending double play groundout. He threw 11 pitches (72.7% strike rate) and produced one whiff.

He has been scoreless in nine of his last ten appearances, converting seven of eight save chances with a 0.50 WHIP and recording ten strikeouts without a walk (28.6 K-BB%) through ten innings.

  • Mason Miller made his team debut, escaping with a scoreless eighth, working around consecutive hits upon entry with a strikeout, followed by an inning-ending double play groundout for his first hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Mason Miller | Jason Adam

San Francisco Giants – Provided a one-run lead at the bottom of the tenth, Randy Rodríguez made things interesting but secured his second save against the Mets. After inducing a lead-off popout by Brandon Nimmo, Rodríguez hit Francisco Lindor with a pitch, retired Juan Soto via infield fly, walked Pete Alonso, then recorded a game-ending strikeout against Ronny Mauricio. He threw 16 pitches (50% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%). His illustrator:

And his results, in a bend, but not break save:

This marked his first save since June 4.

  • Ryan Walker retired the side at the bottom of the ninth and earned his third win.
  • José Buttó faced his former team, but let one of two inherited runners score on an Alonso sacrifice fly and issued a walk during his second blown save during two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Joey Lucchesi gave up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while retiring one batter in the eighth, but was credited with his first hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Randy Rodríguez | Ryan Walker | Joey Lucchesi

Texas Rangers – Called upon with a one-run lead at the bottom of the ninth against Seattle’s 8-9-1 lineup pocket, Robert Garcia allowed Dominic Canzone’s lead-off single and J.P. Crawford’s walk-off two-run home run, resulting in his sixth loss and a fourth blown save.

  • Phil Maton notched his 21st hold during his team debut, walking and striking out one during a scoreless bottom of the eighth.
  • Danny Coulombe fired a clean seventh, striking out two for his ninth hold.
  • Hoby Milner logged 1.2 scoreless innings, navigating around two hits and a walk.

Updated Hierarchy: *Robert Garcia | *Phil Maton | Shawn Armstrong

*= closer-by-committee

Quick Hits

  • Colorado Rockies: Making his major league debut, Dugan Darnell worked two scoreless innings, giving up a hit and striking out one, then collected his first career win after his team’s five-run walk-off rally at the bottom of the ninth. He threw 18 pitches (72.2% strike rate) and induced one whiff.
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: An “old school” save for Justin Wrobleski, his first this season and the second of his career. He worked three scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out five while preserving a shutout in Tampa Bay. He threw 40 pitches (70% strike rate) and induced five whiffs (12.5 SwStr%).
  • Miami Marlins: Despite giving up three hits and two earned runs at the top of the ninth, Anthony Bender collected his third win on his team’s walk-off rally at the bottom of the ninth. This appearance ended his 14-game scoreless streak, dating back to June 22.
  • Seattle Mariners: After retiring the side and striking out at the top of the ninth, Eduard Bazardo collected his fifth win following his team’s walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 10 pitches (80% strike rate) and produced two whiffs while extending his scoreless streak to seven games, during which he has two wins with a 0.299 WHIP through 6.2 innings.
  • The Athletics: Finishing a four-run win, Sean Newcomb tossed a scoreless top of the ninth, walking and striking out one against Arizona’s 7-8-9-1 hitters. He threw 11 pitches (63.6% strike rate) and induced one whiff while extending his scoreless streak to five games. Elvis Alvarado retired the side in the eighth. Luis Morales allowed three hits, an earned run, and a walk during his two-inning major league debut.
  • Toronto Blue Jays: Amid a loss, Louis Varland made his team debut, firing a clean top of the seventh and recording a strikeout on 14 pitches (85.7% strike rate) with two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | August 1

After the dust settled on an overwhelming trade deadline from a leverage standpoint, the fantasy implications do not always align with the real ones. For our purposes, these relievers received a boost as a result of how their team handled the trade deadline:

Trade Deadline RP Winners for Fantasy Purposes

  • Jhoan Durán (PHI): Will anchor the leverage ladder on a better team, and even if he gets 70 percent of the remaining saves, it enhances his appeal.
  • Dennis Santana (PIT): Was not traded and will take over as the closer for the Pirates, riding a seven-game scoreless streak with a win, a save, and nine strikeouts against three walks over his last seven innings.
  • Randy Rodríguez (SF): Although not confirmed, it was inferred he will take over the majority of save chances following the departures of Camilo Doval and Tyler Rogers.
  • Jose A. Ferrer (WSH): Since the start of 2024, Kyle Finnegan has recorded 58 of his team’s 61 saves. Ferrer may not get all the save chances for the remainder of the season, but he represents the team’s best option.
  • Griffin Jax (TB): While he may not be getting saves initially, he’s under team control through 2027 and could thrive with his new team’s analytical nuances. Add in a better defense behind him, and do not be surprised if he records five saves through the end of the season.

Trade Deadline RP Decliners for Fantasy Purposes

  • Mason Miller (SD): Per Dennis Lim, the team plans on keeping Robert Suarez entrenched as the closer. As a point of reference, from his first appearance after being acquired last year, Tanner Scott recorded four saves while Suarez notched 13 from August 3-on. This sets a baseline for Miller, who can still accrue ancillary saves while racking up strikeouts and protecting a team’s ratios.
  • Ryan Helsley (NYM): Similar situation in a different location. Helsley can still record ancillary saves with the Mets while building his portfolio as a pending free agent with a strong postseason. In shallow formats, he will be dropped, but in deeper leagues, he can be a viable stream option for saves when Edwin Díaz is unavailable.
  • Kyle Finnegan (DET): There is a chance A.J. Hinch incorporates Finnegan into save situations, but Will Vest has been the better pitcher between the two. We project Finnegan as an eighth-inning option, working with Tommy Kahnle and Tyler Holton as setup relievers for Vest.
  • Shelby Miller (MIL): He will no longer be closing out games when he’s activated.
  • David Bednar and Camilo Doval (NYY): Keeper league players face a tougher decision, as these relievers are under team control through 2026 and 2027, respectively. Devin Williams and Luke Weaver will be free agents at the end of this year. How the Yankees restructure their bullpen will be intriguing, as it will make decisions easier down the road based on usage patterns and performance.

Relievers with Opportunity

  • St. Louis Cardinals: Manager Oli Marmol has stated the team will use a match-up-based approach during leverage situations following Helsley’s departure. JoJo Romero will face an opponent’s toughest left-handed hitter or hitting pocket, while Kyle Leahy and Riley O’Brien will also be involved in the seventh, eighth, and ninth innings. Early lean toward Leahy, but O’Brien could emerge with a save share as the season progresses.
  • Minnesota Twins: After the team traded its entire bullpen hierarchy and its two match-up relievers in the sixth inning (Danny Coulombe and Brock Stewart), Cole Sands may be the last man standing. We project him as the preferred save option, but Rocco Baldelli can pull the rug out from under the fantasy community, so it’s with cautious optimism, though save chances may be sparse after the team’s deadline roster purge.
  • The Athletics: There has been no indication about how the team will replace Mason Miller at the top of the hierarchy. Jack Perkins could be the fill-in, but he’s also in consideration for taking over the vacated rotation spot for J.P. Sears. Sean Newcomb has recorded a save since joining the team, and Michael Kelly has provided solid setup results. A wild card may be Luis Morales. He has transitioned into a reliever for the remainder of the season to monitor his workload. Since the switch at Triple-A, he has 20 strikeouts against six walks, but in his last three scoreless appearances, he has racked up eight strikeouts versus zero walks (42.1 K-BB%) through six innings with a 0.33 WHIP.

For all of the adjusted hierarchies as a result of the trade deadline, please reference our:

2025 RP Trade Deadline Tracker

As for Thursday’s results, there were only three games, but two ended with a save:

Here are the leverage events of interest from yesterday, with a frame of reference for the game in Cincinnati:

Leverage Ledger

Atlanta Braves – Capping a crazy contest in Cincinnati, Raisel Iglesias shut the door on his 13th save, retiring the side and striking out one at the bottom of the tenth. He threw seven pitches (85.6% strike rate) and induced one whiff (14.3 SwStr%).

After not being traded, he will remain the team’s closer until further notice.

  • Pierce Johnson earned his second win, tossing 1.1 clean frames and striking out one.
  • Dylan Lee struggled, letting both inherited runners score along with giving up three hits, three earned runs, and a walk during two-thirds of the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Raisel Iglesias | Dylan Lee | Pierce Johnson

Cincinnati Reds – Tasked with the top of the tenth, Emilio Pagán let the “place” runner score on consecutive flyouts, including Marcell Ozuna’s go-ahead sacrifice fly, and a groundout, resulting in an unearned run and his fourth loss.

  • Brent Suter stranded two runners at the top of the eighth and worked 1.2 clean frames while recording two strikeouts.
  • Lyon Richardson and Sam Moll combined for six hits, six earned runs, and a walk during one-third of the eighth.
  • Graham Ashcraft suffered his fifth blown save, letting both inherited runners score on back-to-back fielding errors, then gave up two hits and two earned runs during the top of the sixth during his 1.2 innings of relief.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

New York Yankees – Filling in capably with a scoreless top of the ninth, Jonathan Loáisiga recorded his first save, preserving a three-run win over the Rays. He allowed a lead-off double by Matt Thaiss, then retired the next three batters, throwing 13 pitches (69.2% strike rate) with three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%) while recording one strikeout. He has been scoreless in his last five appearances.

  • Yerry De Los Santos notched his third hold, logging three clean frames and recording five strikeouts on 33 pitches (69.7% strike rate) while producing six whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).

Updated Hierarchy: Devin Williams | David Bednar | Camilo Doval

Quick Hits

  • Seattle Mariners: Called upon with a runner on and two outs at the top of the ninth, Casey Legumina completed the combined shutout of Texas, retiring Sam Haggerty via strikeout. Trent Thornton allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts during 1.2 scoreless innings. Caleb Ferguson made his team debut with a clean top of the seventh.
  • Tampa Bay Rays: During an eventual loss, Joe Rock tossed three scoreless innings, giving up two hits and striking out five. Mason Montgomery stranded both runners at the bottom of the fifth, retiring both batters faced.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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Closer Monkey’s Trade Deadline RP Tracker | 2025

Closer Monkey’s trade deadline tracker will update with each reliever acquisition before the trade deadline passes on July 31 at 6 p.m. ET.

July 31, 2025

San Diego Padres – A.J. Preller strikes again:

This represents the first domino for the Padres day:

After a rough patch earlier this season, Mason Miller found his footing and is peaking at the time of this trade:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/jd6n3/3/

Robert Suarez was not traded. Mike Shildt did not displace him as the closer when the team acquired Tanner Scott last year. I will read as much as possible to gather quotes about roles moving forward in this talented bullpen.

Update:

Padres Hierarchy: Robert Suarez | Mason Miller | Jason Adam

The Athletics – For now, our adjusted hierarchy for the A’s:

Updated Hierarchy: *Jack Perkins | *Michael Kelly | *Sean Newcomb

Detroit Tigers – In three separate trades, the team added Kyle Finnegan:

And Rafael Montero:

And Paul Sewald:

As currently constructed, the terrific irony here is that Montero has the best swinging strike percentage (13.8) on the roster. Hope lies in his split-fingered fastball, which produces a 17.3 percent swinging strike rate, and he pitches toward his 3.61 xERA. Sewald will attempt to return in early September and has posted a 10.8 swinging strike percentage, along with a 3.58 SIERA and a 3.56 xERA. Finnegan is a ham and eggs guy on a team searching for whiffs, which simply does not fit what this team needs.

Here are his splits this year:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/rMgX6/2/

If you can believe it, the Tigers have added another depth piece, in a half-measure manner:

Updated Hierarchy: Will Vest | Kyle Finnegan | Tyler Holton

Washington Nationals – Trading Finnegan opens the door for more save chances by Jose A. Ferrer. He has been scoreless in eight of his last nine appearances, posting a 0.909 WHIP with six strikeouts against one walk across 7.2 innings:

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

Los Angeles Dodgers – This move may not make many waves, but Brock Stewart will be a solid target for those in SOLDS leagues. He will be deployed against right-handed hitting pockets during leverage innings:

When Michael Kopech and eventually Brusdar Graterol can return, Stewart’s role may change, but for now:

Adjusted Hierarchy: *Blake Treinen | *Alex Vesia | Brock Stewart

*= closer-by-committee

New York Yankees – After some preemptive additions of positional players, the Yankees have traded for David Bednar, who projects as a setup reliever. Still, he will remain under team control through the end of next season.

He was demoted early in the season, but as his split display, found his groove:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Kw5cR/2/

Not finished adding, they also traded for Jake Bird:

His ground ball rate should play well while escaping Coors.

Addressing a clear need, they also acquired Camilo Doval from the Giants:

Adjusted Hierarchy: Devin Williams | Camilo Doval | David Bednar

San Francisco Giants – With the team trading Camilo Doval and Tyler Rogers, it opens the door for Randy Rodríguez to audition as the closer for the remainder of the season.

Projected Hierarchy: Randy Rodríguez | Ryan Walker | Joey Lucchesi

Texas Rangers – Showing they have a pulse, the Rangers traded for Danny Coulombe:

He’s not just a left-handed specialist and has recorded a 0.97 WHIP with an 18 K-BB percentage across 40 games, spanning 31 innings.

After adding Merrill Kelly, the team continued, targeting Phil Maton:

Adjusted Hierarchy: *Robert Garcia | *Phil Maton | Shawn Armstrong

*= projected closer-by-committee

Tampa Bay Rays – Adding and subtracting at the trade deadline has worked for this team in the past, and at the last minute, they beefed up the bullpen:

Adjusted Hierarchy: Pete Fairbaks | Griffin Jax | Edwin Uceta

Toronto Blue Jays – Joining in the contenders banquet at the Twins’ buffet, Toronto added Louis Varland for the stretch run:

Adjusted Hierarchy: Jeff Hoffman | Seranthony Domínguez | Louis Varland

Chicago Cubs – At the last minute, the Cubs added veteran left-handed reliever Taylor Rogers. It’s been a whirlwind couple of days for this family.

Minnesota Twins – Well, the team traded its entire hierarchy and the sixth-inning reliever. Good luck.

Updated Hierarchy: Cole Sands | Justin Topa | Kody Funderburk

Milwaukee Brewers – At the end of the news cycle from the trade deadline, the Brewers added Shelby Miller to an already productive bullpen, giving it even more depth:

Once he is activated, he will be integrated into the hierarchy and provide insurance for Trevor Megill.

July 30, 2025

Philadelphia Phillies – Aligning with the team’s “Wheeler Window,” the Phillies traded two top prospects for closer, Jhoan Durán.

Understanding Rob Thomson will mix and match sometimes in the late innings, you do not target Duran and not deploy him as the preferred save share. Here are his splits by month this season:

Link: ​​https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Jk9un/3/

Updated Hierarchy: Jhoan Durán | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

Minnesota Twins – There may be more moves on tap for the Twins as they retool for 2026. Griffin Jax should be in the mix for the majority of save chances, but he has not recorded one yet this season. Louis Varland will also get a larger leverage role. For now: 

Updated Twins Hierarchy: *Griffin Jax | *Louis Varland | Brock Stewart

*= closer-by-committee until Rocco Baldelli announces his leverage plans.

New York Mets – Proving aggressive ahead of the trade deadline, the Mets acquired 2024’s saves leader, Ryan Helsley, for three minor leaguers. This helps Helsley since he cannot receive a qualifying offer, and he gets to pitch for a team vying for the postseason, then choose his destination for 2026. He has rebounded since June and creates a “superpen” in New York. 

Here are his splits this season:

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

Once again: 

Adjusted Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | Ryan Heslely | Tyler Rogers

St. Louis Cardinals – After trading its closer, our adjusted hierarchy suggests a shared saves approach, with a caveat. Phil Maton is also working on an expiring contract and will be moved before tomorrow’s deadline. Tread lightly here: 

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

*= closer-by-committee

New York Mets – Shoring up the leverage ladder, New York traded for Tyler Rogers:

Through 53 appearances, he has a 4-3 record with 20 holds while posting a 0.86 WHIP with 38 strikeouts against four walks (18.1 K-BB percentage) across 50 innings.

Updated Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | Tyler Rogers | Gregory Soto

Atlanta Braves – It may not move the needle for many fantasy managers, but Atlanta’s acquisition of Tyler Kinley signals more moves on the horizon. First, the deal:

The team did well getting Pierce Johnson out of Colorado and may be looking for lightning to strike twice. Of course, this trade means Johnson and Raisel Iglesias may be on the move by the end of tomorrow’s deadline:

Over the last 365 days, Kinley has produced 76 strikeouts against 34 walks (14.6 K-BB percentage) with a 1.29 WHIP in 69 appearances, spanning 66.2 innings. It’s easy making fun of this deal, but his 3.70 SIERA, 14.8 swinging strike percentage, and 70.1 percent contact rate allowed are not bad. Add in his hard hit percentage against, 30.9 percent, in this time frame and he could be accruing saves in a fluid bullpen until Joe Jiménez can return. Once the team’s next moves occur, the hierarchy will be updated. For now, plan on Kinley usurping Daysbel Hernández in a potential save share with Dylan Lee after the trade deadline.

Los Angeles Angels – Potentially good news for those sweating out a Kenley Jansen trade, the Angels are buying on the day before the trade deadline, acquiring two veteran relievers from Washington: Andrew Chafin and Luis García.

However, this could also be insurance if the team decides to sell before tomorrow’s deadline. For the moment, this has ripple effects in two hierarchies. First, the Angels:

Updated Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Reid Detmers | Luis García

As for the Washington Nationals:

Updated Hierarchy: Kyle Finnegan | Jose A. Ferrer | Cole Henry

Pittsburgh Pirates – Acquired Taylor Rogers and a shortstop prospect for Ke’Bryan Hayes in a trade with Cincinnati. There is a chance the Pirates flip Rogers before tomorrow’s deadline, but for now:

Updated Hierarchy: David Bednar | Dennis Santana | Taylor Rogers

Baltimore Orioles – Although this deal will become official on Thursday, the team agreed on a deal sending Andrew Kittredge to the Cubs, leaving its leverage ladder decimated:

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

Chicago Cubs – Adding Andrew Kittredge into the mix lengthens this leverage ladder. Not listed, left-handed specialist Caleb Thielbar:

Updated Hierarchy: Daniel Palencia | Andrew Kittredge | Brad Keller

Seattle Mariners – Traded for Caleb Ferguson from Pittsburgh for a Single-A pitcher:

This does not alter the team’s current hierarchy.

Boston Red Sox – Traded for veteran Steven Matz from St. Louis for first base prospect, Blaze Jordan:

This does not affect the current hierarchy.

Arizona Diamondbacks – Added two more relievers, along with first base prospect Tyler Locklear from the Mariners, for Eugenio Suárez. Lance Brozdowski broke down both relievers:

Los Angeles Dodgers – While most of the league focused on adding relievers at the top of the food chain, the Dodgers enhanced their depth in the minors, getting two intriguing relieves in a threeway trade between the Reds and Rays:

Not only is Paul Gervase six feet ten inches, but he can reach the high-90s with his fastball:

July 29, 2025

Toronto Blue Jays – Before the second game of their doubleheader, the Blue Jays acquired Seranthony Domínguez to bolster their bullpen hierarchy.

Since June, he has made 20 appearances, posting a 1.281 WHIP with 28 strikeouts against ten walks (21 K-BB%), and a 15.2 swinging strike percentage. 

Updated Hierarchy: Jeff Hoffman | Yariel Rodríguez | Seranthony Domínguez

July 26, 2025

Arizona Diamondbacks – Remaining active on the trade front, they traded Randal Grichuk to the Royals for reliever Andrew Hoffmann:

He was optioned to Triple-A but could be a depth reliever later this season, or even after the trade deadline passes.

July 25, 2025

New York Mets – An early afternoon trade was consummated on Friday with the Mets acquiring Gregory Soto from Baltimore:

In 45 appearances this season, he has recorded a save and 18 holds while recording 44 strikeouts versus 18 walks (16.3 K-BB%) with a 1.29 WHIP through 36.1 innings. He will be deployed against left-handed heavy-hitting pockets, and he has held them to a .138 batting average against, a .255 weighted on-base average (wOBA), and 22 strikeouts across 70 batters faced this season.

Updated Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | Ryne Stanek | Gregory Soto

July 24, 2025

Arizona Diamondbacks – Perhaps opening the flood gates, the Diamondbacks traded Josh Naylor to Seattle for two pitching prospects:

Brandyn Garcia made 32 appearances in relief between Double and Triple-A, posting 42 strikeouts against 17 walks and five saves. He’s a left-handed reliever and will provide depth in the future.

July 21, 2025

Philadelphia Phillies – Signed David Robertson to a prorated deal for the remainder of the 2025 season. He reported to Triple-A, and his timeline has him being activated on August 4 after making four outings in the minors. He was hitting 90 miles per hour during his throwing session for scouts, but the team hopes he approaches the average velocity he achieved last year (93.3 MPH) during his ramp-up time:

He will be added to the hierarchy upon activation.

July 10, 2025

Tampa Bay Rays – Making a move early in July ahead of the amateur draft, the Rays traded their competitive balance pick for reliever Bryan Baker from Baltimore. During 42 appearances with the Orioles, Baker had a 3-2 record with two saves, and ten holds while posting a 1.096 WHIP with 49 strikeouts against nine walks (26.5 K-BB%) in 38.1 innings. He slots into his new team’s hierarchy and will be under team control through 2028.

Updated Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Bryan Baker | Garrett Cleavinger

Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | July 31

Although this post usually focuses on the previous day’s leverage events of interest, today’s lead-in will recap the trades that impacted hierarchical changes. As a reminder, you can access all reliever trades throughout the day at this link:

2025 Trade Deadline Tracker

Buyers

Philadelphia Phillies – Updated Hierarchy: Jhoan Durán | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

Getting Durán without trading from its top prospect cache (Andrew Painter, Justin Crawford, and Aiden Miller), closest to the majors, represents a win for the front office. Plus, the former Twins’ closer has fared well in the postseason:

New York Mets – Adjusted Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | Ryan Heslely | Tyler Rogers

Chicago Cubs – Updated Hierarchy: Daniel Palencia | Andrew Kittredge | Brad Keller

The Andrew Kittredge trade will be announced this morning.

Sellers

Baltimore Orioles – Updated Hierarchy: *Corbin Martin | *Keegan Akin | Yennier Cano

Minnesota Twins – Updated Hierarchy: *Griffin Jax | *Louis Varland | Brock Stewart

*= closer-by-committee until Rocco Baldelli announces his leverage plans.

San Francisco Giants – Updated Hierarchy: Camilo Doval | Randy Rodríguez | Ryan Walker

St. Louis Cardinals – Adjusted Hierarchy: *JoJo Romero | *Kyle Leahy/ Riley O’Brien

*= closer-by-committee

News, Notes, and Observations (Trade Deadline Version)

The Athletics – Reports are centered around the Padres in focused pursuit of Mason Miller, which made him unavailable during last night’s save opportunity:

If he’s traded, how the team that acquires him deploys him remains uncertain. San Diego has transitioned multiple pitchers from a reliever into a starting pitcher role, so if they add Miller and do not trade Robert Suarez, this could be a possibility.

Los Angeles Angels – Perhaps the biggest wild card as the deadline approaches, encapsulated perfectly by Jeff Fletcher:

San Diego Padres – A segue alert, but how does the team handle Suarez, who can and likely will opt out of his contract options at the end of the season to enter free agency?

San Francisco Giants – With one reliever traded, will the team shake up the bullpen hierarchy again today?

Pittsburgh Pirates – Will they trade David Bednar? Dennis Santana? Taylor Rogers?

Tampa Bay Rays – Although it’s fluid right now, it appears the Rays are listening to offers for Pete Fairbanks:

Washington Nationals – An intriguing tweet, though it’s anticipated that the team will move Kyle Finnegan:

And, now we await the fantasy fallout from today’s trades leading up to the deadline at 6 p.m. ET.

Stash Candidates

  • Jack Perkins (ATH)
  • Randy Rodríguez (SF)
  • JoJo Romero/Kyle Leahy (STL) – projected committee
  • Isaac Mattson (PIT) – if they trade Bednar/Santana
  • Edwin Uceta (TB)
  • Jose A. Ferrer (WSH)

During Wednesday’s games, relievers recorded seven wins and five saves while getting tagged with six losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

Leverage Ledger for July 30

Atlanta Braves – Taking over a tied game at the bottom of the tenth, Daysbel Hernández only threw two pitches, with the second being a walk-off RBI single by Salvador Perez, resulting in his second loss.

Raisel Iglesias fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded a strikeout in potentially his last outing with the team. He threw 11 pitches (81.8% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%). He has been scoreless in his last two games and three of the previous four.

  • Dylan Lee gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless bottom of the eighth.
  • Pierce Johnson retired his only batter at the bottom of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Raisel Iglesias | Dylan Lee | Pierce Johnson

Cincinnati Reds – Capping his team’s three-run rally at the bottom of the eighth, Tony Santillan secured his third save, working around a hit batter during a scoreless ninth against the Dodgers. He threw 17 pitches (64.7% strike rate) and induced one whiff while recording a strikeout. It’s his first save since June 8 and extended his scoreless streak to eight games, during which he has posted a 0.548 WHIP with 12 strikeouts against one walk (40.7 K-BB%) through 7.1 innings.

  • Scott Barlow stranded two runners despite giving up a hit during two-thirds scoreless at the top of the eighth and collected his fourth win.
  • Sam Moll gave up a hit and a walk during one-third of the seventh.
  • Luis Mey tossed a scoreless sixth, giving up a hit and a walk.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Kansas City Royals – Tasked with the top of the tenth, Sam Long worked around Ozzie Albies’ lead-off single, putting runners on the corners by retiring the next three Atlanta batters, two via strikeout. He collected his first win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning.

  • Carlos Estévez tossed a clean ninth on 10 pitches (70% strike rate) and induced two whiffs. He extended his scoreless streak to five games, but this was the first clean appearance in them.
  • Lucas Erceg allowed a hit during a scoreless eighth.
  • Steven Cruz worked a clean seventh, striking out one.
  • Hunter Harvey navigated around two hits for a scoreless sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | Hunter Harvey

Miami Marlins – Preserving a combined shutout, Calvin Faucher secured his tenth save, retiring the side against the Cardinals’ 6-7-8 hitters. He threw 16 pitches (68.8% strike rate) without a whiff while recording a strikeout. He owns a modest four-game scoreless streak and has converted both save chances, posting a 1.064 WHIP with four strikeouts against three walks over 4.2 innings.

  • Ronny Henriquez stranded an inherited runner at the top of the eighth, walking one and striking out two for his 14th hold against the 3-4-5 lineup pocket.
  • Tyler Phillips logged 2.1 scoreless frames, allowing two hits and a walk while striking out three, securing his fourth hold.

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

*= closer-by-committee

New York Yankees – Turning in a scoreless top of the 11th resulted in Tim Hill collecting his fourth win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 11 pitches (72.7% strike rate) and induced one whiff against the Rays’ 6-7-8 hitters.

  • Luke Weaver let the “place” runner score at the top of the tenth, allowing a walk and Yandy Díaz’s RBI single while striking out one.
  • Devin Williams suffered his second blown save, issuing Junior Caminero a lead-off walk, a leverage no-no, followed by Josh Lowe’s go-ahead two-run home run during the ninth. This marked his first blown save since April 25, and he has allowed a run in four of his last six appearances, resulting in a 1.33 WHIP through six innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Devin Williams | Luke Weaver | Tim Hill

Pittsburgh Pirates – After working a scoreless bottom of the ninth despite giving up a hit, Isaac Mattson kept the game tied while facing the Giants’ 3-4-5-6 hitters. He returned with a one-run lead at the bottom of the tenth and worked around a dropped fly ball, ruled a hit and a sacrifice bunt with consecutive game-ending strikeouts, earning his third win. He threw 26 pitches (69.2% strike rate) and induced one whiff, recording three strikeouts in his outing. This usage pattern suggests that two of his teammates were not utilized ahead of the trade deadline. Stay tuned.

  • Carmen Mlodzinski worked two scoreless frames while giving up a hit.

Updated Hierarchy: David Bednar | Dennis Santana | Taylor Rogers

Tampa Bay Rays – Entering a tied game at the bottom of the 11th, Kevin Kelly issued Jasson Domínguez an intentional walk, advanced both runners on a balk, then gave up Ryan McMahon’s walk-off single, tagging him with his third loss.

  • Edwin Uceta was charged with his third blown save, allowing Cody Bellinger’s one-out triple, scoring the “place” runner in the tenth, and recorded two strikeouts, keeping the game tied.
  • Pete Fairbanks suffered his fourth blown save, allowing two hits, including Anthony Volpe’s game-tying solo home run, and striking out one. He has allowed at least a run in three of his last six appearances.
  • Bryan Baker gave up four hits and two earned runs en route to his fifth blown save in the eighth.
  • Mason Englert worked a clean seventh, striking out one for his first hold.
  • Garrett Cleavinger notched his 16th hold, retiring the side and recording a strikeout in the sixth. 

Hierarchy Remains: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Garrett Cleavinger

Texas Rangers – Handed a three-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, Robert Garcia retired the side and recorded two strikeouts while recording his ninth save, now tied for the team lead this season. He threw 10 pitches (90% strike rate) and produced three whiffs. He has allowed an unearned run through five outings in the second half while converting all three save chances with a 0.851 WHIP and eight strikeouts against one walk through 4.2 innings.

  • Shawn Armstrong notched his ninth hold, retiring both batters in the eighth, one via strikeout.
  • Hoby Milner allowed two hits, including Nolan Schanuel’s two-run home run, and recorded a strikeout in one-third of the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Garcia | Shawn Armstrong | Jon Gray

The Athletics – With its closer “unavailable” due to potential trade ramifications, Jack Perkins secured his third save despite allowing Randy Arozarena’s solo home run at the top of the ninth. Perkins logged two innings, giving up only one hit and an earned run, throwing 23 pitches (65.2% strike rate) without a whiff. Of his eight appearances, he has logged multiple innings in seven while converting all three save opportunities with 19 strikeouts versus seven walks with a 0.914 WHIP through 19.2 innings.

  • Justin Sterner was credited with his ninth hold. However, he allowed a walk and a two-run home run by Julio Rodríguez during the top of the seventh. He has given up at least a run in three of his last four games.

For now: 

Hierarchy Remains: Mason Miller | Michael Kelly | Sean Newcomb

Toronto Blue Jays – Preserving a one-run lead and preventing a sweep in Baltimore, Jeff Hoffman shut the door on his 25th save while snapping a two-game streak of allowing at least a run. He retired the 3-4-5 lineup pocket in order and recorded a strikeout on 15 pitches (60% strike rate) with two whiffs (10.5 SwStr%). He has been scoreless in seven of ten games in July, converting all six save chances with 13 strikeouts against one walk (30 K-BB%).

  • Seranthony Domínguez fired a clean eighth, striking out two while notching his 14th hold.
  • Braydon Fisher stranded the bases loaded while retiring both batters via strikeout in the seventh, securing his fifth hold.
  • Yariel Rodríguez struggled, allowing three hits, three runs (two earned), and two walks during one-third of the seventh.
  • Mason Fluharty was awarded his fourth win, tossing a scoreless sixth, yielding a hit and striking out three.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Seranthony Domínguez | Yariel Rodríguez

Quick Hits

  • Baltimore Orioles: Things went sideways quickly for Yennier Cano at the top of the seventh. He suffered his sixth loss and a third blown save, giving up four hits, including Nathan Lukes’ three-run home run, and five earned runs. This represents a season-high in earned runs allowed, and he has given up multiple runs in six of his 44 appearances this year.
  • Chicago Cubs: Closing a seven-run win in Milwaukee, Daniel Palencia gave up Caleb Durbin’s two-out single during a scoreless bottom of the ninth. He threw 17 pitches (52.9% strike rate) and induced one whiff. This extends his scoreless streak to eight games, during which he has converted four saves while posting a 0.519 WHIP with seven strikeouts against zero walks (26.9 K-BB%) through 7.2 innings.
  • Cleveland Guardians: Sealing a combined shutout, Cade Smith retired the side at the top of the ninth against the Rockies on 10 pitches (80% strike rate) without a whiff. Although he did not get a save chance, he was in line until his teammates scored two runs at the bottom of the eighth. Jakob Junis collected his third win, tossing two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out two.
  • San Diego Padres: Completing a combined shutout, Robert Suarez gave up Brandon Nimmo’s one-out double at the top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout. He threw 15 pitches (73.3% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%). Jason Adam fired a clean eighth, striking out two on 16 pitches (68.8% strike rate) with one whiff.
  • San Francisco Giants: Summoned at the top of the tenth, Ryan Walker suffered his fourth loss. He fielded a comebacker with one out and the “place” runner at third, but went for the double play; the runner beat the throw to second, resulting in a fielder’s choice groundout. Camilo Doval allowed a lead-off single by Spencer Horwitz, then struck out the next three batters. He threw 16 pitches (75% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%). He’s rumored to be on the trade block, but how much traction that gains depends on the market.
  • St. Louis Cardinals: With one runner on and two outs, Kyle Leahy retired Eric Wagaman on a deep fly ball to center at the top of the ninth. JoJo Romero tossed 1.1 scoreless innings, yielding a hit and striking out one. Riley O’Brien tossed 1.1 clean frames and recorded a strikeout. This may be the new high-leverage triumvirate for the team after the trade deadline passes.

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

Statistical Credits:

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Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | July 30

On Trade Deadline eve, things will get crazy soon in the reliever market. One move was made yesterday, as Seranthony Domínguez switched locker rooms between games during a doubleheader.

Our updated hierarchies are shared in the game recaps. As a gentle reminder:

Trade Deadline Links

As for yesterday’s results, reslievers recorded seven wins and converted nine saves while suffering six losses. There was a one-out save, a three-plus inning save, and a save converted by a veteran closer working for a third consecutive contest:

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for July 30

  • Bennett Sousa (HOU): Hader and Abreu have pitched in back-to-back games. 
  • Taylor Rogers (CIN): Pagán and Santillan have appeared in three of the last four days. 
  • John Schreiber (KC): Estévez and Erceg have been used in three of the previous four games. 
  • Reid Detmers (LAA): Jansen has pitched in three consecutive contests. 

Here are the leverage events of interest from Tuesday.

Leverage Ledger

Baltimore Orioles – (Game 1) – Facing Toronto’s 2-3-4 lineup pocket, Yennier Cano worked around Davis Schneider’s lead-off single with a flyout and an inning-ending double play groundout against Bo Bichette.

(Game 2) – Capping his team’s go-ahead rally at the bottom of the eighth, Corbin Martin recorded his first career save despite hitting Ernie Clement with a pitch and walking Tyler Heineman leading off the top of the ninth. Martin bore down, retiring Myles Straw on a sacrifice bunt, then striking out Nathan Lukes and Bo Bichette, preserving the one-run win. He threw 22 pitches (36.4% strike rate) and induced three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%).

  • Andrew Kittredge allowed a hit and a walk while striking out one at the top of the eighth, collecting his second win.
  • Keegan Akin navigated around a hit and a walk for a scoreless seventh in his first appearance since June 30.

In the two save situations since Félix Bautista was placed on the injured list, interim manager Tony Mansolino has used a match-up-based approach. As for “The Mountain,” it may be some time before he returns:

Updated Hierarchy: *Andrew Kittredge | *Yennier Cano | *Keegan Akin

*= closer-by-committee

Boston Red Sox – After warming up for the ninth, Aroldis Chapman was not initially used when the lead grew to five. Jorge Alcala entered instead, but allowed two hits, including Brooks Lee’s two-run home run, and left with a runner on and two outs. Chapman stranded the runner, retiring Mickey Gasper via strikeout for his 19th save, throwing three pitches, all strikes.

  • Garrett Whitlock notched his 14th hold, yielding a hit and striking out two during a scoreless bottom of the eighth, extending his scoreless streak to nine games.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Garrett Whitlock | Jordan Hicks

Cincinnati Reds – Entering with the score tied at the top of the ninth, Emilio Pagán issued Michael Conforto a lead-off walk, a leverage mortal sin. He almost worked around it by retiring the next two batters, but Will Smith made him pay, producing a go-ahead RBI double before Freddie Freeman’s inning-ending strikeout. Pagán suffered his third loss, giving up a hit, an earned run, and a walk with one strikeout on 25 pitches (64% strike rate). His illustrator:

And results:

  • Tony Santillan retired the side in the eighth.
  • Graham Ashcraft gave up three hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out two, resulting in his fourth blown save.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Houston Astros – Nailing down his 28th save, Josh Hader fired a clean top of the ninth while striking out the side, preserving a three-run lead against the Naitonals. He threw 13 pitches (69.2% strike rate) and generated five whiffs (38.5 SwStr%).

This extended his modest scoreless streak to four games, and he has registered multiple strikeouts in seven of nine games in July, posting 16 strikeouts through 11 innings. Bryan Abreu gave up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two in the eighth.

  • Bryan King gave up three hits and an earned run while getting one strikeout.
  • Bennett Sousa collected his fifth win, tossing 1.1 clean frames and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bennett Sousa

Los Angeles Angels – For a 13th consecutive full season, Kenley Jansen has recorded at least 20 saves. Appearing in a third straight contest, he preserved a three-run lead, allowing Marcus Semien’s two-out single and striking out one during a scoreless top of the ninth versus Texas. He threw 11 pitches (72.7% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless through all 11 games in July, recording two wins and five saves while posting a 0.354 WHIP with 13 strikeouts and zero walks (35.1 K-BB%).

  • Connor Brogdon allowed Kyle Higashioka’s solo home run in the eighth, getting credit for his third hold.
  • Reid Detmers tossed a scoreless top of the seventh, yielding a hit and striking out two, to collect his fourth win.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Reid Detmers | Ryan Zeferjahn

Los Angeles Dodgers – Handed a one-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, Alex Vesia slammed the door on his fourth save, retiring the side and recording two strikeouts against the Reds’ 8-9-1 hitters. He threw eight pitches (75% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

It’s his first save since June 11 and extended his scoreless streak to four games.

  • Alexis Díaz stranded a runner at the bottom of the seventh while retiring all four batters, collecting his first win, and gaining a measure of revenge against his former team. 

Also, an update for Tanner Scott:

Updated Hierarchy: *Blake Treinen | *Alex Vesia | *Jack Dreyer

*= closer-by-committee

New York Yankees – Hanging on for his 17th save, Devin Williams allowed Josh Lowe’s lead-off triple, followed by José Caballero’s walk, then retired the next two batters, scoring a run. With two outs, Yandy Díaz reached on a throwing error, but Williams produced a game-ending strikeout of Jonathan Aranda. He finished with a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one on 25 pitches (60% strike rate) with five whiffs (20 SwStr%). His illustrator:

And results:

The good news is that he has converted a save in his last four appearances. However, he has allowed at least a run in three of his last five games.

  • Jonathan Loáigisa notched his seventh hold, stranded a runner at the top of the seventh, and allowed two hits during 1.1 scoreless innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Devin Williams | Luke Weaver | Tim Hill

Pittsburgh Pirates – Filling in capably, and possibly being showcased for scouts, Dennis Santana nailed down his sixth save, retiring the side and recording two strikeouts in San Francisco. He threw 12 pitches (75% strike rate) and generated four whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).

This marks his first save since May 21 and extends his scoreless streak to seven, during which he has a 1.00 WHIP with nine strikeouts versus three walks.

  • Braxton Ashcraft earned his third win, logging three clean frames and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: David Bednar | Dennis Santana | Caleb Ferguson

San Diego Padres – In order of appearance, Jeremiah Estrada fired a clean top of the fifth, recording one strikeout, extending his scoreless streak to 17 games, during which he has two wins, a save, and ten holds while posting a 0.539 WHIP with 22 strikeouts against three walks in 16.2 innings.

  • Wandy Peralta was awarded his fifth win, tossing a scoreless sixth despite allowing a hit.
  • Adrian Morejon notched his 16th hold, retiring the side in the seventh. He has given up one earned run during his last 30 appearances since May 23, recording seven wins, a save, and ten holds.
  • Ron Marinaccio worked a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit and striking out one.
  • Yuki Matsui finished the six-run win with a clean ninth, striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

Toronto Blue Jays – Summoned at the bottom of the eighth during a tied contest against Baltimore’s 2-3-4 lineup pocket, Jeff Hoffman allowed consecutive one-out doubles by Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman, hit a batter, and recorded a strikeout, resulting in his fourth loss. His illustrator:

And his results:

He has suffered a loss while allowing a run in back-to-back appearances.

  • Seranthony Domínguez made his team debut, retiring the side and striking out two at the bottom of the seventh.
  • Yariel Rodríguez issued a walk during a scoreless sixth.

Updated Hierarchy: Jeff Hoffman | Seranthony Domínguez | Yariel Rodríguez

Quick Hits

  • Detroit Tigers: Taking over at the top of the second, Brant Hurter stranded two runners and logged 3.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out three. He collected his third win while throwing 37 pitches (70.3% strike rate) and produced five whiffs (13.5 SwStr%)
  • Miami Marlins: Completing a combined shutout, Valente Bellozo tossed two innings, walking one and striking out three. Ronny Henriquez fired a clean seventh, striking out one. Calvin Faucher allowed a hit and a walk while striking out two. 
  • Milwaukee Brewers: With two runners on and two outs at the top of the sixth, Aaron Ashby stranded them and logged 3.1 innings while recording his second save. He allowed a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two on 42 pitches (61.9% strike rate) with three whiffs (7.1 SwStr%).
  • New York Mets: Called into a tied game at the bottom of the sixth, José Buttó suffered his second loss. He gave up five hits, five earned runs, and two walks while striking out one during his 1.2 innings.
  • San Francisco Giants: A rare meltdown for Tyler Rogers resulted in his third loss. He entered a tied contest at the top of the eighth, allowing four hits and two earned runs while striking out one, snapping his nine-game scoreless streak in July. It’s the first time he has allowed multiple runs since June 25.
  • Texas Rangers: A rough outing for Jon Gray at the bottom of the sixth. He gave up three hits, four earned runs, and three walks while striking out one, resulting in his first loss and a second blown save.
  • Washington Nationals: Taking over a tied game at the bottom of the fifth, Andrew Chafin gave up a hit, an earned run, and a walk during two-thirds of the inning, resulting in his first loss.

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.

Premium subscribers can still use this link for daily, ad-free content or submit a $25 payment via Venmo to @gjewett9.

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

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

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BaseballSavant.com

BrooksBaseball.net