Monkey Bytes: July 13

Friday’s full slate featured five reliever wins and eight saves. There was only one extra-inning game, with the Angels prevailing on a walk-off home run. David Bednar returned from the injured list with a save, showing no signs of rust against the White Sox.

Two young guns in the American League West displayed their high-octane speed, and a sullied non-save outing by a Reds’ reliever received attention in today’s Three Takeaways segment.

Three Takeaways

  • Alexis Díaz and traffic, a dangerous combination: Our recaps will not feature this, but Alexis Díaz closed out a win over Miami, entering with a four-run lead. He allowed a one-out double, followed by an RBI two-out single, uncorked a wild pitch, issued a walk, and induced a game-ending groundout. He threw 25 pitches (52 Strike%) and did not produce a whiff. He had not pitched since July 7 but has allowed four runs over his last two appearances on five hits and two walks. It’s been an up-and-down season for the Reds’ closer, but the valleys may outweigh the peaks. After this outing, he has a 1.46 WHIP in 2024, which aligns with his 1.44 WHIP over the last statistical year. He’s struggling with left-handed hitters, posting a .352 weighted on-base average (wOBA) and 1.84 WHIP through 72 batters faced this season, and he’s throwing more four-seam fastballs compared with last year with mixed results. He may not be on the “hot seat,” but he should be on watch in the second half: 

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/CK44C/2/

  • Feel the need, the need for speed? Look toward the AL West: Although Ben Joyce nor Mason Miller recorded a save or a hold on Friday night, they lit up the radar gun in their respective outings. Joyce turned in a scoreless seventh, hitting a batter and recording a strikeout during a tied game with the Mariners. Miller finished a four-run win in Philadelphia with a scoreless ninth, allowing a hit and striking out two. As for the velocities, let the Statcast leaderboard from last night’s games do the talking:
  • Yimi’s rehab outing: After having his rehab appearance pushed back on three occasions, Yimi García suffered a loss during Buffalo’s game last night. He allowed two hits, two earned runs, and a walk on 17 pitches (9 strikes – 52.9 Strike%) during his two-thirds of the sixth inning. Toronto maintains it may activate him as soon as Sunday; here’s hoping his velocity rebounds in the second half:

Closer CliffsNotes

American League

Houston Astros – Taking over with a three-run lead, Josh Hader locked down his 18th save with a clean ninth and recorded two strikeouts. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (38.5 SwStr%) against the Rangers’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket, though two pinch-hitters were used. He’s turned in three straight scoreless outings with multiple strikeouts.

  • Ryan Pressly secured his 15th hold, retiring the side and striking out one in the eighth, extending his scoreless streak to 12 games.
  • Bryan Abreu gave up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two in the seventh. 

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

Los Angeles Angels – Although he let the “place” runner score on Mitch Garver’s RBI double, after issuing an intentional walk (Cal Raleigh), Hans Crouse induced consecutive strikeouts in the top of the tenth and collected his second win on a walk-off home run in the bottom of the frame.

  • Carlos Estévez tossed a scoreless ninth, giving up a one-out single and striking out two, keeping the game tied. He threw 17 pitches (12 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (35.3 SwStr%).
  • Luis García navigated around two hits for a scoreless eighth.
  • Ben Joyce fired a scoreless seventh, hitting a batter (Luke Raley) and recorded a strikeout. He also threw the season’s fastest pitch at 104.5 m.p.h. in this sequence. He’s been scoreless over his last 10 appearances, spanning 13.1 innings.

Updated Hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Ben Joyce

New York Yankees – Nailing down his 21st save, Clay Holmes worked a scoreless ninth and recorded a strikeout. He hit Heston Kjerstad in the helmet with a pitch, precipitating a benches-clearing shoving match. Holmes threw 20 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted consecutive saves with a clean appearance in each.

  • Luke Weaver secured his 13th hold with a clean eighth.
  • Tommy Kahnle notched his fifth hold, giving up a hit during a scoreless seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Clay Holmes | Luke Weaver | Tommy Kahnle

Oakland A’s – Closing a four-run win in Philadelphia, Mason Miller navigated around a one-out single and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless ninth. He threw 21 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in eight of his last nine games and recorded multiple strikeouts in his last five.

  • Lucas Erceg stranded a runner and allowed a hit during a scoreless one-third of the eighth.
  • T.J. McFarland allowed a walk and struck out two in two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Scott Alexander notched his fifth hold with a clean seventh.
  • Osvaldo Bido collected his first win, logging three scoreless innings. He gave up a hit and recorded two strikeouts. 

Hierarchy remains: Mason Miller | Lucas Erceg | Scott Alexander

Seattle Mariners – With a one-run lead in the bottom of the tenth, Austin Voth suffered his third loss and first blown save, allowing Willie Calhoun’s two-run, walk-off home run.

  • Andrés Muñoz navigated around two walks and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless ninth, keeping the game tied. He threw 17 pitches (7 strikes – 41.2 Strike%) and induced two whiffs.
  • Ryne Stanek retired the side and struck out two in a clean eighth.
  • Gregory Santos worked a scoreless seventh, issuing a walk and striking out two. 

Hierarchy remains: Andrés Muñoz | Ryne Stanek | Gregory Santos

Tampa Bay Rays – Slamming the door on his fourth save, Jason Adam preserved a combined shutout while striking out the side against Cleveland. He threw 14 pitches (9 strikes – 64.3 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). Amidst an 11-game scoreless streak, Adam has recorded 14 strikeouts against three walks with a 0.42 WHIP over his last 12 innings.

  • Colin Poche retired the side and recorded two strikeouts for his 11th hold.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

Toronto Blue Jays –  Entering a tied game in the bottom of the ninth, Chad Green struggled with his command and suffered his second loss. His outing began with Corbin Carroll drawing a lead-off walk, a leverage mortal sin. Green issued Ketel Marte a one-out walk and, after a double steal, intentionally walked Christian Walker, then gave up the walk-off run on a sacrifice fly. He threw 18 pitches (7 strikes – 38.9 Strike%) without inducing a whiff.

  • Trevor Richards was tagged with his third blown save, giving up a hit, two earned runs, and two walks while striking out one in the eighth.
  • Brendon Little retired the side in the seventh for his third hold. 

Hierarchy remains: Chad Green | Trevor Richards | Nate Pearson

National League

Arizona Diamondbacks – Taking over a tied game in the top of the ninth, Justin Martinez retired the side against Toronto’s 5-6-7 lineup pocket and recorded a strikeout. He collected his fourth win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s allowed two unearned runs over his last five appearances with nine strikeouts against zero walks across eight innings.

  • Bryce Jarvis gave up three hits and an earned run in the eighth.

Hierarchy remains: Paul Sewald | Kevin Ginkel | Ryan Thompson

Chicago Cubs – Summoned with two runners on and the tying run in the on-deck circle, Héctor Neris induced a lineout, issued a walk, and recorded a game-ending strikeout for his 13th save, stranding both inherited runners. He threw 15 pitches (8 strikes – 53.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted his last three save opportunities and been scoreless over his last seven appearances with 11 strikeouts against three walks.

  • Hunter Bigge could not preserve the combined shutout, allowing a hit, an earned run, and two walks during one-third of the ninth.
  • Mark Leiter Jr. retired the side and recorded two strikeouts in the eighth.

Hierarchy remains: Héctor Neris | Mark Leiter Jr. | Porter Hodge

Los Angeles Dodgers – Hanging for his fourth save, Daniel Hudson navigated around two walks with two strikeouts and a game-ending flyout, preserving a one-run win. He threw 25 pitches (40 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (16 SwStr%).

  • Michael Peterson collected his third win, tossing a scoreless eighth. He issued a walk and recorded a strikeout.
  • Blake Treinen gave up a hit during a scoreless seventh.
  • Evan Philips made his first appearance since July 6 in the sixth inning. He allowed a single during a scoreless outing with his team down one.
  • Yohan Ramírez logged 1.1 scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out three. 

Hierarchy remains: Evan Phillips | Daniel Hudson | Alex Vesia

New York Mets – With a one-run lead, Edwin Díaz hung on for his tenth save. He issued consecutive walks with two outs before producing a game-ending strikeout for Ezequiel Tovar. He threw 25 pitches (52 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (16 SwStr%). He extended his scoreless streak to eight games while converting five of six save chances.

  • Phil Maton notched his tenth hold despite letting an inherited runner score on a Brenton Doyle home run, putting an earned run on his ledger during two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Jake Diekman gave up two hits, including a solo home run, and two earned runs in one-third of the eighth.

Hierarchy remains: Edwin Díaz | Dedniel Núñez | Phil Maton

Pittsburgh Pirates – Back from the injured list and right into a save situation, David Bednar retired the side while converting his 16th straight save and 17th of the season. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff while recording one strikeout. This marks his first appearance since June 19 and his third consecutive scoreless save.

  • Colin Holderman navigated around a hit and a walk with an inning-ending double-play grounder for his 15th hold.
  • Carmen Mlodzinski logged two clean frames and struck out two for his third hold.

Updated Hierarchy: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Colin Holderman

Washington Nationals – Rebounding from a rough non-save appearance on Thursday, Kyle Finnegan secured his 24th save with a clean ninth and recorded two strikeouts in a win over Milwaukee. He threw 17 pitches (12 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. This snapped a two-game stretch of allowing at least a run.

  • Hunter Harvey notched his 26th hold with a clean eighth and two strikeouts. He’s now tied for the major league lead in holds.
  • Derek Law issued a walk during a scoreless seventh and recorded his ninth hold.
  • Robert Garcia collected his first win. He stranded two runners in the fifth and logged 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out two.

Updated Hierarchy: Kyle Finnegan | Hunter Harvey | Robert Garcia

Vulture Save Options for Saturday, July 13

  • Tayler Scott (HOU): With Hader, Pressly, and Abreu all having pitched the two previous days, Scott is atop the hierarchy for the save chance today.
  • Nate Pearson (TOR): Green has pitched in back-to-back games.
  • Porter Hodge (CHC): In the event of a sweep, he could garner a vulture save in Game 2.
  • Ryan Fernandez (STL): If the Cardinals can secure a sweep, he could be the preferred save choice in Game 2.

Vulture Save Option for Sunday, July 14

  • Dedniel Núñez (NYM): If Edwin Díaz pitches today, it will be consecutive appearances.

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Statistical Credits:

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Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast

Monkey Bytes: July 12

Thursday’s slate started slowly but finished with two reliever wins and six saves. Paul Sewald recorded his second save in as many days with a little help from his defense, and Josh Hader fired a clean ninth against the Marlins, closing out a series sweep.

There have been reports that Pittsburgh will activate David Bednar and Ryan Borucki for this weekend’s series, but nothing official has been confirmed. Once it happens, the team’s hierarchy will be adjusted accordingly.

Three Takeaways

  • Vulture wins?: Although our niche coverage focuses on streaming for saves, some relievers emerge as vulture win candidates yearly. Tayler Scott collected his sixth win of the season last night and his fourth over the last 30 days. He’s tied with Daniel Hudson for the most wins in the last statistical month, and only three relievers have more wins this season (three tied with seven). Scott, Hudson and Kevin Ginkel have all recorded six wins, which makes them streamable options in head-to-head formats.
  • D-Will heads to High-A: Adam McAlvy reported Milwaukee closer Devin Williams will make his first rehab outing for the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers on Saturday. Statcast data will not be available until he reaches Triple-A. Still, fantasy managers can track his usage patterns with eyes on a potential return date near or ahead of the trade deadline (July 30).
  • Where’s Yimi?: Scheduled for a second rehab outing since Tuesday, Yimi García has not appeared since suffering neck stiffness. Thursday marks a third straight scratch for the Blue Jays reliever, who some speculate could be activated as early as this weekend. This may not happen, and the team will be cautious with one of its best trade deadline assets. He was a popular stash in many formats over the weekend, but his runway for save chances keeps dissipating.

Next, our condensed game recaps cover Thursday’s high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

American League

Boston Red Sox – Logging his third multi-inning save of the season, Chase Anderson tossed three scoreless frames and preserved a combined shutout with Tanner Houck. Anderson gave up two hits and recorded five strikeouts against the A’s. He threw 39 pitches (28 strikes – 71.8 Strike%) and produced six whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).

Updated Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Justin Slaten | Zack Kelly

Houston Astros – Converting his 17th straight save chance, Josh Hader fired a clean ninth and recorded two strikeouts during a three-run win over the Marlins. He threw 17 pitches (10 strikes – 58.8 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (23.5 SwStr%). This marks consecutive scoreless outings with multiple strikeouts. Can he cut down the home run per fly ball rate in the second half?

  • Ryan Pressly allowed a hit and struck out one in a scoreless eighth, securing his 14th hold. He’s been scoreless over his last 11 appearances.
  • Bryan Abreu navigated around two hits while striking out three in a scoreless seventh, notching his 21st hold.
  • Tayler Scott collected his fourth win, stranding two runners and recording two outs, one via strikeout in the sixth inning.

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

Tampa Bay Rays – Struggling with his command, Pete Fairbanks issued a lead-off walk in the ninth, a one-out Juan Soto walk, and induced an Aaron Judge pop-out before Ben Rice produced an RBI single. With two outs and two on, Fairbanks bore down and retired Gleyber Torres on a game-ending pop-out for his 16th save. He threw 28 pitches (15 strikes – 53.6 Strike%) with two whiffs.

  • Manuel Rodríguez stranded two runners and issued a walk in one-third of the eighth for his second hold.
  • Colin Poche gave up a hit and a walk while striking out one in one-third of the eighth, getting credit for his tenth hold.
  • Jason Adam fired 1.1 clean frames and recorded two strikeouts while nailing down his 17th hold.
  • Garrett Cleavinger retired the side in the sixth and struck out two for his eighth hold.
  • Kevin Kelly stranded one of two runners and issued a walk, collecting his third win in two-thirds of the fifth.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

Toronto Blue Jays –  With two outs and a three-run lead, Chad Green allowed a solo home run by Mike Yastrzemski before a game-ending strikeout for his fifth save. He threw 21 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s recorded a win and three saves through five appearances in July but has given up a home run in two contests.

  • Zach Pop worked a clean eighth and secured his seventh hold.

Hierarchy remains: Chad Green | Trevor Richards | Nate Pearson

National League

Arizona Diamondbacks – Pitching with a one-run lead, Paul Sewald secured his 13th save and second in as many days with a scoreless ninth, though Jake McCarthy should get credit for his defense on this Matt Olson flyout. He worked around a two-out Marcell Ozuna with a game-ending groundout. Sewald threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%). Over his last two saves, he’s been efficient during his two scoreless innings, producing a 73.9 strike percentage while retiring six of seven batters.

  • Ryan Thompson navigated around two walks for a scoreless eighth and his 15th hold.
  • Kevin Ginkel notched his seventh hold, allowing a hit and striking out one in a scoreless seventh inning. He owns a nine-game scoreless streak and has been scoreless in 19 of his last 20 appearances.

Hierarchy remains: Paul Sewald | Kevin Ginkel | Ryan Thompson

Philadelphia Phillies – Taking over with a four-run lead, José Alvarado worked a scoreless ninth and finished a sweep of the Dodgers. He allowed a one-out walk, then induced a game-ending double-play groundout. He threw 14 pitches (8 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and induced one whiff while striking out one in his non-save appearance.

  • Jeff Hoffman worked into and out of trouble in the eighth. He recorded a strikeout, had a runner reach on an error, issued a walk, and gave up a single, loading the bases before an inning-ending lineout double play. Hoffman secured his 11th hold and extended his modest scoreless streak to five.
  • Matt Strahm walked one during a scoreless seventh for his ninth hold.

Hierarchy remains: *José Alvarado | *Jeff Hoffman | Orion Kerkering

*= floating closer

Pittsburgh Pirates – Moving into 20th all-time in saves, Aroldis Chapman locked down his 325th career save and fourth this season with a clean ninth while striking out one. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff. This marked his first clean appearance since June 26 and his first in July without issuing a walk.

  • Colin Holderman navigated around two hits and a walk with three strikeouts in a scoreless eighth. He spoiled the combined no-hit bid but preserved the combined shutout for his 14th hold.

Hierarchy remains: Aroldis Chapman | Colin Holderman | Carmen Mlodzinski

Vulture Save Option for Friday, July 12

  • Justin Martinez (ARI): With each reliever in our hierarchy working on consecutive days, the rookie could benefit from the vulture save chance in tonight’s game.
  • Gregory Soto (PHI): If a save chance presents itself, the southpaw could be in line. Alvarado and Hoffman pitched on Wednesday and Thursday, leaving them unavailable in tonight’s contest versus Oakland.

Vulture Save Option for Saturday, July 13

  • Manuel Rodríguez (TBR): If Fairbanks and Adam pitch in tonight’s game, it will be back-to-back outings.
  • Ryan Fernandez (STL): He could garner a vulture save chance with a doubleheader on tap for Saturday.
  • Hunter Bigge (CHC): If the Cubs can sweep the Cardinals, the rookie could get his first high-leverage outing in Game 2.

Heading into the last weekend before the All-Star break, here are some leaderboards for saves, holds, and SOLDS.

Saves and Holds Leaders (last 30 days)

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/eB4WK/2/

SOLDS Leaders (last 30 days)

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

Saves and Holds Leaders (last 14 days)

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

SOLDS Leaders (last 14 days)

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

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Statistical Credits:

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Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast

Monkey Bytes: July 11

Wednesday’s 17-game slate yielded four relievers wins and 10 saves. James “The General” McArthur recorded saves in each game of his team’s sweep of a split-game doubleheader against St. Louis. He’s the sixth Royals reliever to accomplish the feat and the first since Greg Holland did it two times in 2013. In the other doubleheader, Michael Kopech fired an “immaculate” inning while locking down his ninth save in Game 1, and Jhoan Durán recorded his 14th save during a one-run win in Game 2.

Two struggling closers, Clay Holmes and Paul Sewald, secured saves on this slate with clean appearances. Although the Phillies share saves in their “floating closer” concept, the scales have tipped recently, which will be a topic in today’s takeaways.

Three Takeaways

  • Hoffman’s on a heater: Since June 30, Jeff Hoffman has recorded four of his team’s five saves, including a clean outing last night against the Dodgers. This recent surge in the category ties him with teammate José Alvarado for the team lead since June. Since April 10, Hoffman’s made 34 appearances, spanning 33 innings, and only allowed three earned runs while recording 41 strikeouts versus five walks (28.3 K-BB percentage). He also leads all qualified National League relievers in ERA (1.17) and converted his last seven save opportunities.
  • Sewald rebounds: Avoiding a rage drop is tough when a closer struggles. After Paul Sewald suffered his third straight blown save, Torey Lovullo immediately reinforced Sewald’s role with the team, which resulted in a save on Wednesday night against Atlanta. It’s a fine line closers walk during high-leverage events, and in two of his blown saves, he retired the first two batters (July 2 vs. the Dodgers and July 8 against Atlanta). He may not reach past performance levels, but his role remains stable.
  • Joyce gaining trust: In this column by Jeff Fletcher for The Orange County Register, manager Ron Washington acknowledged Ben Joyce could be used in save situations if Carlos Estévez is unavailable and Luis García has been used. It’s not a ringing endorsement, but it signals that the rookie will be on the radar for save chances in the second half. Estévez and García are free agents at the end of the season, which may result in their being moved before the trade deadline. Part of Joyce’s growing leverage presence comes from more efficient outings this season. He’s reduced his pitches per plate appearance from 4.15 last year to 3.87 in 2024 by adding a “splinker” into his arsenal. There will be some bumps in the road, but he’s produced a 0.73 WHIP during his nine-game scoreless streak, which spans 12.1 innings.

Next, our condensed game recaps cover Wednesday’s high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

American League

Chicago White Sox – (Game 1) Variety is the spice of life, and it may be key to Michael Kopech‘s continued success. He locked down his ninth save with an immaculate ninth inning in Game 1, striking out the side against the Twins’ 6-7-8 batters. He threw nine pitches, all strikes, and generated four whiffs (44.4 SwStr%). He’s recorded consecutive clean appearances and only thrown 11 four-seam fastballs of his 19 pitches (57.9%) in these contests.

  • John Brebbia worked around a hit and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless eighth, securing his 13th hold.
  • Jordan Leasure notched his ninth hold but allowed Trevor Larnach’s solo home run in the seventh.
  • Justin Anderson retired the side in the sixth, striking out one for his third hold.
  • (Game 2) Michael Soroka suffered his tenth loss, allowing two hits, including Ryan Jeffers’ go-ahead RBI single in the top of the seventh. Soroka finished with two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two on his ledger.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks

Detroit Tigers – Summoned with an inherited runner on third and one out ahead by one, Jason Foley induced a fielder’s choice groundout, retiring the inherited runner. He then issued Brayan Rocchio an intentional walk, uncorked a wild pitch, put runners on second and third, and recorded a game-ending groundout for his 15th save.

  • Alex Faedo was credited with his seventh hold, allowing an earned run and two walks over a combined inning of relief. He scored a runner with a wild pitch in the ninth.
  • Tyler Holton secured his sixth hold, logging 1.1 scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: *Jason Foley | *Tyler Holton | *Shelby Miller

*= closer-by-committee

Kansas City Royals – During a split-doubleheader, James McArthur recorded the save in each game, his 16th and 17th of the season. He threw a combined 34 pitches (24 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (14.7 SwStr%). He gave up three hits and an earned run while striking out two across his two appearances on Wednesday. He’s been scoreless in nine of his last ten outings and converted all five save chances.

Game 1

  • Sam Long notched his second hold, giving up a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
  • Will Smith retired the side in the seventh, securing his sixth hold.

Game 2

  • Kris Bubic recorded his first hold, tossing a clean eighth and striking out one.
  • John Schreiber worked a clean seventh and struck out two for his 19th hold.

Updated Hierarchy: James McArthur | John Schreiber | Sam Long

Los Angeles Angels – After warming for a save opportunity, Carlos Estévez retired the side in the ninth, finishing a five-run win over Texas when his teammates tacked on two runs in the bottom of the eighth. He threw 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and did not induce a whiff. This marked his first outing in July, and he has a 12-game scoreless streak with 11 strikeouts versus one walk while converting all nine save chances.

  • José Marte stranded three runners in the seventh and tossed 1.1 clean frames while striking out one for his first hold.
  • Hunter Strickland was credited with his sixth hold, giving up a hit, a walk, and a hit batter during two-thirds of the seventh.
  • Hans Crouse stranded the bases loaded in the fifth and logged 1.2 scoreless innings en route to his first major league win. He issued a walk and recorded two strikeouts.

Hierarchy remains: Carlos Estévez | Luis García | Ben Joyce 

Minnesota Twins – Preserving a one-run win and a split in Game 2, Jhoan Durán fired a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out two against the White Sox, securing his 14th save. He threw 10 pitches (80 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (30 SwStr%). His scoreless streak reached seven games after this outing, during which he recorded two wins, three saves, and seven strikeouts against two walks across 6.2 innings.

  • Griffin Jax worked a scoreless eighth, walking one and striking out one for his 14th hold.
  • Jorge Alcala retired the side and struck out one in the seventh, securing his tenth hold.
  • Steven Okert was awarded his third win, tossing a clean sixth inning.

Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala

New York Yankees – Recording his 20th save, first since June 9, Clay Holmes retired all four batters and stranded two in the eighth. He preserved a one-run win while striking out two. He threw 21 pitches (13 strikes – 61.9 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He had allowed at least a run in five of his previous seven appearances, so fantasy managers hope he’s turning a corner.

  • Tommy Kahnle was credited with his fourth hold, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Luke Weaver tossed 1.2 scoreless, issuing two walks and striking out one.
  • Tim Hill collected his third win, stranding three runners in the fifth and working a scoreless combined innings. He gave up two hits and recorded two strikeouts.

Updated Hierarchy: Clay Holmes | Luke Weaver | Tommy Kahnle

Oakland A’s – Securing his first save since June 21, Mason Miller tossed a scoreless bottom of the ninth for his 15th save, finishing a three-run win. He allowed a two-out single but recorded a game-ending strikeout, his second of the outing. He threw 13 pitches (69.2 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s been scoreless in seven of his last eight but only has two saves.

  • Lucas Erceg logged 1.1 scoreless innings but let one of two inherited runners score in the seventh during his 11th hold. He gave up a hit and a walk while striking out one.
  • T.J. McFarland was credited with his 11th hold, allowing two hits and an earned run during his two-thirds of the seventh.
  • Austin Adams stranded a runner and retired his only batter via strikeout for his 17th hold in the sixth. 

Hierarchy remains: Mason Miller | Lucas Erceg | Scott Alexander

Seattle Mariners—Shutting the door on his 15th save and preserving a combined shutout, Andrés Muñoz stranded two runners in the eighth and navigated around two walks in the ninth while striking out two. He threw 28 pitches (15 strikes—53.6 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (14.3 SwStr%) during his 1.1 scoreless frames. This marked his sixth save, requiring at least four outs.

  • Ryne Stanek allowed a hit and a walk during his two-thirds of the eighth, getting credit for his 14th hold.
  • Austin Voth notched his ninth hold, retiring the side and striking out one in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Andrés Muñoz | Ryne Stanek | Gregory Santos

National League

Arizona Diamondbacks – Being a goldfish (short memory) and benefiting from a nice play by Geraldo Perdomo, Paul Sewald snapped his blown save streak with a clean ninth while recording his 12th save. He capped a two-run rally in the bottom of the eighth, throwing eight pitches (87.5 Strike%) without a whiff. He breathed a sigh of relief after the last out, just like his fantasy managers.

  • Ryan Thompson suffered his fifth blown save, giving up Marcell Ozuna’s game-tying two-run home run, and collected his fifth win courtesy of his team’s rally in the bottom of the eighth.
  • Justin Martinez worked a scoreless seventh, allowing a hit and striking out two.
  • Kevin Ginkel fired a clean sixth, striking out the side. He’s been scoreless in 17 of his last 18 with 20 strikeouts against two walks.

Hierarchy remains: Paul Sewald | Kevin Ginkel | Ryan Thompson

Colorado Rockies – Hanging on for his ninth save, Jalen Beeks allowed Tyler Stephenson’s lead-off home run, consecutive singles, an RBI single by Santiago Espinal, and a sacrifice fly before recording a game-ending groundout by Elly De La Cruz. Beeks finished with three hits and two earned runs on 21 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with two whiffs. This snapped his three-game scoreless streak.

  • Victor Vodnik recorded his sixth hold while giving up a solo home run by Jonathan India and striking out two in the eighth.

Updated Hierarchy: Jalen Beeks | Victor Vodnik | Tyler Kinley

New York Mets – With the bullpen running on fumes, José Buttó stepped up and recorded his first career save, finishing a four-run win over the Nationals. He took over in the eighth with a runner on second, two outs with a three-run lead, and retired Lane Thomas via strikeout. Buttó returned for the ninth and retired the side with another strikeout. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and induced a whiff during his 1.1 clean innings. He’s an intriguing SPARP option moving forward for those playing in head-to-head leagues. He’s recorded two wins and a save through three appearances as a reliever.

  • Danny Young notched his second hold, recording two outs and giving up a double in the top of the eighth.
  • Jake Diekman stranded a runner and struck out both batters in the seventh for his eighth hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | Dedniel Núñez | Phil Maton

Philadelphia Phillies – Protecting a one-run lead, Jeff Hoffman retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the top of the ninth, facing the Dodgers 7-8-9 lineup pocket. He threw 12 pitches (7 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (33.3 SwStr%). He’s recorded four saves in four scoreless appearances since June 30.

  • José Alvarado gave up a one-out double by Andy Pages and Miguel Rojas’ RBI single, who was thrown out at second base. This marked Alvarado’s sixth hold, but he’s allowed a run in consecutive outings and three of his last five.
  • Matt Strahm secured his eighth hold, retiring both batters, one via strikeout, while stranding two runners in the seventh.
  • Orion Kerkering was credited with his seventh hold despite giving up two hits and striking out one in one-third of the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: *José Alvarado | *Jeff Hoffman | Orion Kerkering

*= floating closer

Vulture Save Options for Thursday, July 11

  • None

Vulture Save Options for Friday, July 12

  • Gregory Santos (SEA): If Muñoz and Stanek pitch on Thursday, it will be consecutive outings.
  • Luis García (LAA): If Estévez works today, it will be back-to-back appearances.
  • Shelby Miller (DET): If Foley works again on Thursday, it will be two straight games, giving him Friday off.

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Monkey Bytes: July 10

Two postponed games shortened Tuesday’s slate slightly, but five relievers recorded wins, and five saves were secured. San Francisco won via a walk-off wild pitch. Detroit and Cleveland played a second straight extra-inning contest, which leaves one bullpen stretched thin entering today’s match-up.

On the rehab front, Tuesday provided multiple tidbits, recapped in condensed form:

  • David Bednar (PIT): He pitched a clean inning for Double-A Altoona and struck out one. He discussed his outing in this tweet on “X.”
  • Devin Williams (MIL): Completed a live session against hitters and could embark on a rehab outing if he responds well during a checkup later today.
  • Yimi García (TOR): His rehab outing on Tuesday was scratched due to a “stiff neck.” He’s slated to throw in Buffalo’s game today instead.
  • Brock Stewart (MIN): He made his first outing at Triple-A with a scoreless inning, working around two walks and a fastball, sitting 95-to-97 m.p.h.
  • Mark Leiter Jr. (CHC): Activated off the 15-day injured list and pitched a clean eighth inning while striking out one.

Notable Debuts:

  • Chicago Cubs – During his major league debut, Hunter Bigge fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded a strikeout against the Orioles’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket while closing a seven-run win. He threw 13 pitches (11 strikes – 84.6 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).
  • Seattle Mariners – Making his team and season debut, Gregory Santos retired the side in the bottom of the ninth, finishing a five-run win in San Diego. He threw 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) without a whiff.

Three Takeaways

  • Mets strike first: For all of the trade deadline coverage and posturing by front offices, New York addressed a need to get Phil Maton from Tampa Bay for cash considerations or a player to be named later. How he fits into the hierarchy remains to be seen, but he arrives with a 0.58 WHIP over his last 11 outings, 10 scoreless, and a 11:1 K:BB across his last 12 innings. Depth in the leverage ladder will be pivotal for possible postseason success.
  • Will Tampa Bay be buyers, sellers, or both?: Trading Phil Maton represents a move from strength, and the team recalled Manuel Rodríguez to fill his roster spot. How they stand in the last week before the trade deadline may determine how the franchise handles the roster. It’s being reported that Pete Fairbanks and Jason Adam could be moved, but it’s dependent on how the team views its playoff chances. Among the four teams within five-and-a-half games of the last Wild Card spot in the American League, their 16-game stretch ahead of the deadline will determine the team’s course of action. However, if Fairbanks or Adam gets moved, it will affect multiple hierarchies from a fantasy perspective.
  • Is Washington shifting into “sell” mode? In Ken Rosenthal’s trade deadline update for The Athletic, he mentions that the Nationals may be putting players on the block. This includes all three relievers in our bullpen hierarchy: Kyle Finnegan, Hunter Harvey, and Dylan Floro. Finnegan and Harvey will be free agents in 2026, and Floro will be free at the end of the season. Who stays and who goes will determine the structure of this leverage ladder from August forward.

Next, our condensed game recaps cover Tuesday’s high-leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

American League

Cleveland Guardians – Hanging on for his 28th save, Emmanuel Clase let the “place” runner score on a groundout and a sacrifice fly, then gave up consecutive singles before inducing a game-ending flyout by Justyn-Henry Malloy. Clase threw nine pitches (66.7 Strike%) and did not produce a whiff. For a second time this season, he’s allowed a run on consecutive outings but has converted his last 15 save chances since May 20.

  • Scott Barlow collected his third win, allowing a walk during a scoreless ninth.
  • Hunter Gaddis tossed a clean eighth.
  • Cade Smith allowed a hit and struck out two in the seventh.
  • Nick Sandlin suffered his second blown save, giving up a game-tying solo home run by Malloy, resulting in his second blown save.

Hierarchy remains: Emmanuel Clase | Hunter Gaddis | Scott Barlow

Detroit Tigers – In the top of the ninth, Will Vest took over and gave up a single before getting an inning-ending flyout. Things turned in the tenth. He allowed a lead-off single by Steven Kwan, putting runners on the corners, intentionally walked José Ramírez, and a go-ahead Josh Naylor single followed by a sacrifice fly. Vest finished with three hits against, two runs (one earned), and a walk while striking out one.

  • Andrew Chafin worked a scoreless combined innings, walking two and striking out two.
  • Beau Brieske logged 2.2 scoreless innings, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out three.

Hierarchy remains: *Jason Foley | *Tyler Holton | *Shelby Miller

*= closer-by-committee

Houston Astros – Preserving a one-run lead, Josh Hader worked around Jake Burger’s one-out walk with a groundout and a game-ending strikeout for his 16th save. He threw 20 pitches (55 Stirke%) and produced three whiffs (15 SwStr%). Despite giving up at least a run in his two previous appearances, Hader has recorded 14 strikeouts against two walks while converting six saves in his last ten games.

  • Bryan Abreu allowed two hits and an earned run in the eighth, getting credit for his 20th hold. 

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

Tampa Bay Rays – Finishing a two-run win over the Yankees, Pete Fairbanks worked around a one-out single by DJ LeMahieu with a strikeout and a game-ending lineout by Juan Soto for his 15th save. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted five straight saves and been scoreless in five of his last six.

  • Jason Adam fired a clean eighth and recorded a strikeout for his 16th hold.
  • Colin Poche let his only inherited runner score while giving up a two-run home run by Ben Rice in the seventh. He recorded two outs and gave up a walk while striking out one, resulting in his ninth hold.
  • Kevin Kelly was credited with his 11th hold despite allowing a hit and an earned run over his two-thirds innings of relief.

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

Texas Rangers – Finishing a one-run win, Kirby Yates recorded his 14th save with a scoreless ninth. He allowed a two-out single by Zach Neto before a game-ending Jo Adell strikeout. Yates threw 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff while striking out two. He owns a seven-game scoreless streak with 12 strikeouts against one walk and converted all four save chances in his last seven innings.

  • David Robertson notched his 20th hold, tossing a clean eighth and striking out one.
  • José Leclerc was awarded his fourth win. He stranded two runners despite issuing a walk and recording an out in the bottom of the seventh, ahead of Adolis García’s go-ahead home run in the eighth.

Hierarchy remains: Kirby Yates | David Robertson | José Leclerc

Toronto Blue Jays –  Managing Chad Green’s workload (49 pitches between July 6 and 7) resulted in Trevor Richards’ save chance with a one-run lead. However, he could not secure his second career save. He allowed a one-out single and issued a two-out walk. Against Brett Wisely, Richards gave up a seeing-eye single up the middle, scoring the game-tying run, and uncorked a wild pitch, scoring Tyler Fitzgerald, resulting in his first loss and a second blown save.

  • Nate Pearson navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out one for his seventh hold with two-thirds scoreless in the eighth inning.
  • Yimi García had his rehab outing on Tuesday scratched because of a stiff neck; he’s slated to throw on Wednesday for Buffalo instead. 

Hierarchy remains: Chad Green | Trevor Richards | Nate Pearson

National League

Miami Marlins – Taking over at the bottom of the sixth, Huascar Brazobán induced an inning-ending double-play grounder, stranding two runners. In the seventh, he suffered his second loss, giving up a go-ahead two-run home run by Alex Bregman, scoring two unearned runs.

  • A.J. Puk struck out Yordan Alvarez, his only batter faced in the seventh.
  • Anthony Bender retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the eighth.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk | Andrew Nardi

New York Mets – Pressed into action with a two-run lead and two outs in the top of the ninth, Edwin Díaz secured his ninth save with a game-ending strikeout against CJ Abrams. He only needed four pitches (75 Strike%) and produced two whiffs. However, he let his only inherited runner score on a wild pitch.

  • Reed Garrett created the save chance, giving up two hits, including Keibert Ruiz’s two-run home run, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out over two-thirds of the ninth.
  • Dedniel Núñez stranded a runner despite allowing a single and striking out one in two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Adam Ottavino gave up two hits and two earned runs in one-third of the eighth.
  • Before this game, the team added Phil Maton from Tampa for cash considerations. 

Updated Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | Dedniel Núñez | Phil Maton

San Francisco Giants – Benefiting from his team’s walk-off rally ending on a wild pitch, Erik Miller collected his third win. He tossed a scoreless top of the ninth, issuing a walk and striking out one.

  • Luke Jackson retired the side in the eighth and recorded a strikeout.
  • Ryan Walker suffered his second blown save, giving up two hits, including a three-run home run by Ernie Clement, and a walk while striking out two in the seventh. This marked his first earned runs allowed since June 1 and snapped a 10.2-inning scoreless streak.
  • Randy Rodríguez worked a clean sixth and struck out one for his fourth hold.

Hierarchy remains: Camilo Doval | Tyler Rogers | Ryan Walker

Vulture Save Options for Wednesday, July 10

  • Cade Smith (CLE): This bullpen has been used heavily in the last four days, including Clase and Gaddis in three of the last four and Barlow on consecutive days.
  • Josh Staumont (MIN): If playing doubleheader save roulette, he could get the save in Game 2 of a sweep.
  • Ryan Fernandez (STL): Ditto, but against the Royals.
  • Kris Bubic (KCR): Ditto, but versus the Cardinals.

Vulture Save Options for Thursday, July 11

  • Ryan Pressly (HOU): If Hader pitches today, it will be back-to-back outings.
  • David Robertson (TEX): He’s pitched in consecutive outings and should be off on Wednesday. If Yates appears today, he will have worked two straight and receive Thursday off.
  • Manuel Rodríguez (TBR): He took over Phil Maton’s spot on the roster, and if Fairbanks and Adam pitch today, it’s back-to-back appearances, meaning an off day on Thursday.

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Statistical Credits:

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Monkey Bytes: July 9

Monday’s seven-game produced three reliever wins, two during extra-inning contests, and three saves. However, all three were considered ancillary since none were recorded by the team’s primary save share. Because of how things transpired for Paul Sewald, the recaps and three takeaways will be reversed in today’s post for a deeper dive into his recent results.

Also, in case you missed it, our updated Top-50 relievers for saves and Top-75 for SOLDS were posted yesterday afternoon.

Closer CliffsNotes, July 8

Arizona Diamondbacks – For the first time in his career, Paul Sewald suffered a third consecutive blown save. With two outs and two strikes, he allowed Sean Murphy’s game-tying two-run home run. His manager alluded to a high fastball against Eddie Rosario, which resulted in a hit, given his struggles with off-speed pitches, but the damage has been done. It’s not about command but getting the most out of his sweeper.

  • Justin Martinez was tagged with his first loss. He let the “place” runner score in the tenth and 11th innings despite only allowing one hit and striking out one.
  • Ryan Thompson tossed a scoreless eighth, securing his 14th hold with a walk and two strikeouts.
  • Kevin Ginkel gave up a hit and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless seventh for his sixth hold. He’s been scoreless in 15 of his last 16 with 16 strikeouts versus two walks.

Updated Hierarchy: Paul Sewald | Kevin Ginkel | Ryan Thompson

Atlanta Braves – With a one-run lead in the bottom of the 11th, Joe Jiménez recorded his second save, working around a one-out walk with a strikeout and a game-ending flyout. He threw 17 pitches (8 strikes – 47.1 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (11.8 SwStr%).

  • Raisel Iglesias logged two innings in his first multiple-inning outing since June 5, 2022. He entered a tied game in the ninth and collected his first win despite letting the “place” runner score in the tenth. He retired all six batters on 21 pitches (13 strikes—61.9 Strike%) with four whiffs (19 SwStr%).
  • Grant Holmes logged three scoreless frames, yielding a walk, keeping his team in the contest.

Hierarchy remains: Raisel Iglesias | Joe Jiménez | A.J. Minter

Chicago White Sox – Taking over the top of the 11th, Jared Shuster suffered his second loss, allowing two hits, including Brooks Lee’s go-ahead RBI single, and two runs (one earned).

  • Michael Kopech retired the side in the tenth, stranding the “place” runner on 10 pitches (60 Strike%) with one whiff, facing the Twins’ 3-4-5 hitters.
  • John Brebbia worked a scoreless ninth, giving up a hit and striking out one.
  • Justin Anderson tossed 1.1 scoreless frames, navigating around a hit and a walk.
  • Jordan Leasure was tagged with his fourth blown save. He gave up Byron Buxton’s lead-off double, a Lee single, a one-out two-run home run by Matt Wallner, and a two-out, go-ahead solo shot by Carlos Correa. Leasure finished with four hits and four earned runs over two-thirds of the seventh inning.

Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks

Cleveland Guardians – Suffering his third loss, Scott Barlow allowed a lead-off double by Jake Rogers in the bottom of the eighth, followed by a Wenceel Pérez single, who was thrown out trying to reach second. After issuing Colt Keith a walk, Barlow gave up a fielder’s choice RBI grounder, scoring the game’s only run. He finished with two hits, an earned run, and a walk during his one-third of the eighth.

  • Tim Herrin retired both batters, ending the inning.
  • Nick Sandlin allowed a hit and struck out one in a scoreless seventh.
  • Sam Hentges stranded a runner and recorded two outs, one via strikeout, in the sixth.

Hierarchy remains: Emmanuel Clase | Hunter Gaddis | Scott Barlow

Detroit Tigers – Summoned with a one-run lead in the top of the ninth, Shelby Miller preserved the combined shutout and recorded his first save of the season, the second of his career. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless over his last two appearances, securing a win and this save. However, his three previous outings resulted in nine earned runs over 2.1 innings.

  • Tyler Holton collected his fourth win, retiring all five batters after taking over in the top of the seventh and stranding a runner. He’s been scoreless over his last five outings and has recorded 18 multi-inning appearances this season.

Adjusted Hierarchy: *Jason Foley | *Tyler Holton | *Shelby Miller

*= closer-by-committee

Minnesota Twins – Outlasting the White Sox in an 11-inning contest, the Twins called upon Kody Funderburk with a two-run lead. He responded by recording his first major league save. He retired the side against the 7-8-9 lineup pocket and recorded a strikeout.

  • Jhoan Durán collected his fifth win, tossing a scoreless tenth. He navigated around a walk (intentional – Eloy Jiménez) and struck out one, throwing 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) with two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).
  • Caleb Thielbar tossed a clean ninth, striking out one.
  • Griffin Jax suffered his fourth blown save, allowing a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two in the eighth.
  • Jorge Alcala notched his ninth hold, tossing a clean seventh and striking out one. 

Hierarchy remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Jorge Alcala

Vulture Save Options for Tuesday, July 9

  • A.J. Minter (ATL): Iglesias worked two innings on 21 pitches and should receive tonight off.
  • Jorge Alcala (MIN): Durán and Jax have appeared on consecutive days, leaving Alcala or Caleb Thielbar in line for the save, which may depend on late-inning lineup pockets. I’m Leaning Alcala, based on Chicago’s best hitters being right-handed.
  • Tanner Banks (CHW): On the opposite side of this contest, Kopech and Brebbia have pitched in two straight and three of the last four.

Three Takeaways

  1. Lovullo stands by Sewald: Despite suffering a blown save for a third straight appearance, Paul Sewald remains Torey Lovullo’s closer, per this interview shared by Arizona Sports (@AZSports) on “X.” After converting his first 11 save opportunities during a 17-game scoreless streak, things were quiet regarding Sewald. Setting a baseline, he entered last night with a 3.83 expected ERA from Statcast. Following last night’s outcome, he’s posted a 3.93 ERA through 18.1 innings across 21 appearances. His scoreless streak masked a rising contact rate but his rolling chart, courtesy of Fangraphs, illustrates his recent struggles with his arsenal:

In 2024, he recorded his highest contact rate allowed (80 percent) since 2020, his lowest swinging strike percentage (11.1), and his lowest K-BB percentage (19.4). Hope lies in his 0.87 WHIP and 5.6 walk percentage, but if the 12.5 percent barrel rate and 39.6 hard-hit percentage remain, outings like this will persist.

Taking this a step further, here are his splits-by-pitch from 2024 versus last year:

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

Increasing his four-seam fastball use, which resulted in the two-out single and game-tying home run, may not be in his best interests, especially considering the 44.4 hard-hit percentage on the pitch, which does not include last night’s data. No matter how Lovullo views things, Sewald’s on the hot seat with fantasy managers. Track his results through the end of the first half, and where his team resides in the standings may determine his role in the second half.

2. Tigers bullpen in flux: By design, A.J. Hinch refrains from labeling his relievers the closer. Since June 30, four pitchers have recorded a save:

  • July 8: Shelby Miller (SV); Tyler Holton (Win)
  • July 6: Andrew Chafin (SV); Jason Foley (Hold); Shelby Miller (Win)
  • July 5: Jason Foley (SV); Andrew Chafin (Hold); Will Vest (Hold)
  • June 30: Tyler Holton (SV)

Without delving into each reliever’s results, the last 14 days Win Probability Added (WPA) chart from Fangraphs illustrated how each one impacts game outcomes:

Long story short, let someone else mine saves from this bullpen. For all we know, Alex Faedo could get the next save opportunity.

3. Kopech’s adjustment: Following a tough blown save on Sunday in Miami, Michael Kopech acknowledged the need for a more varied approach in his outings rather than remaining reliant on his fastball, as discussed in this column by Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times. It’s only one game, but in the tenth inning last night, he stranded the “place” runner and used three pitches in the process:

As a comparison, his pitch percentage chart from Statcast displays his four-seam predictability:

Time will tell if this sticks, but it’s an encouraging development in his transition into being a reliever full-time this season.

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

Please consider becoming a premium subscriber for a one-time $20 donation to the site, featuring full-text emails with charts, column blurbs, and ad-free analysis.

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

Statcast