I am experimenting with the presentation of the weekly rankings. Within the table are rankings for relievers this week. It includes their save, K-BB percentage, swinging strike rate, and WHIP through games played on July 7. This table also shows each reliever’s ranking in Standings Gain Points (SGP) for the season, the last 30 days, and the last two weeks, helping identify recent trends.
These rankings may change rapidly as closers work their way back on rehab assignments, and the trade deadline is just over three weeks away. For now, here’s how they stand. Because saves remain at the forefront of fantasy managers’ minds, the top 31 features our reliever currently residing atop the bullpen hierarchy, with the Phillies’ “floating closers” both ranked as the only outlier.
Closer Monkey’s Updated Top 50 Relievers for Saves
Rank
Reliever
Saves
K-BB%
SwStr%
WHIP
Season
Last 30
Last 14
1
Emmanuel Clase
27
21.9%
13.5%
0.64
1
4
11
2
Ryan Helsley
31
17.8%
16.5%
1.17
2
7
4
3
Robert Suarez
22
19.1%
12.1%
0.87
4
25
88
4
Craig Kimbrel
23
28.1%
11.9%
0.90
3
2
1
5
Kyle Finnegan
23
18.4%
11.9%
0.96
5
15
55
6
Raisel Iglesias
21
18.1%
13.8%
0.86
10
18
52
7
Pete Fairbanks
14
14.5%
9.2%
1.17
36
16
28
8
Kenley Jansen
18
18.4%
11.7%
1.05
9
1
9
9
Trevor Megill
18
23.9%
17.1%
0.99
17
3
10
10
Carlos Estévez
16
23.1%
12.5%
0.82
20
5
43
11
Tanner Scott
13
12.3%
14.3%
1.08
6
6
3
12
Jhoan Durán
13
14.5%
12.5%
1.01
23
8
21
13
Kirby Yates
13
24.2%
15.0%
0.86
8
17
27
14
Camilo Doval
17
14.8%
15.7%
1.54
31
22
2
15
Mason Miller
14
36.6%
20.1%
0.85
7
N/A
N/A
16
Josh Hader
15
32.1%
18.5%
1.05
11
45
54
17
Edwin Díaz
8
26.0%
15.4%
1.14
49
N/A
N/A
18
Andrés Muñoz
14
20.4%
16.3%
1.00
12
63
128
19
Evan Phillips
14
21.1%
12.8%
1.01
24
9
6
20
James McArthur
15
14.2%
12.8%
1.30
30
37
14
Rank
Reliever
Saves
K-BB%
SwStr%
WHIP
Season
Last 30
Last 14
21
Alexis Diaz
19
9.0%
10.1%
1.41
41
26
38
22
Paul Sewald
11
19.4%
10.9%
0.81
62
N/A
165
23
Clay Holmes
19
18.7%
11.4%
1.31
22
N/A
N/A
24
Chad Green
4
17.0%
12.9%
1.00
69
34
18
25
Héctor Neris
12
7.9%
9.3%
1.58
32
N/A
N/A
26
José Alvarado
13
17.1%
11.6%
1.08
38
132
160
27
Jeff Hoffman
8
26.5%
15.7%
0.88
13
19
15
28
Jalen Beeks
8
9.2%
9.3%
1.27
43
32
83
29
Aroldis Chapman
3
14.6%
12.1%
1.68
167
73
89
30
Michael Kopech
8
16.3%
14.0%
1.50
100
142
N/A
31
Jason Foley
14
11.4%
9.8%
1.32
44
N/A
182
32
Alex Vesia
5
20.9%
13.3%
0.91
27
50
68
33
Griffin Jax
7
28.3%
17.6%
0.94
18
42
107
34
Daniel Hudson
3
25.2%
15.8%
0.79
14
11
5
35
Ryne Stanek
7
17.9%
15.0%
1.21
33
10
26
36
Jason Adam
3
15.0%
16.2%
0.88
26
28
47
37
Joe Jiménez
1
17.6%
13.9%
0.97
74
66
87
38
Tyler Holton
2
15.5%
11.2%
0.82
45
76
N/A
39
A.J. Puk
1
19.6%
13.0%
0.83
89
36
13
40
Jeremiah Estrada
1
32.6%
17.8%
1.04
53
133
45
Rank
Reliever
Saves
K-BB%
SwStr%
WHIP
Season
Last 30
Last 14
41
Andrew Kittredge
1
15.5%
13.6%
1.24
119
129
161
42
Ryan Pressly
2
19.5%
12.1%
1.36
168
69
95
43
Hunter Gaddis
0
23.9%
13.4%
0.71
21
23
32
44
Porter Hodge
1
19.2%
12.0%
0.88
154
58
29
45
Ryan Walker
0
28.2%
13.4%
0.85
16
14
8
46
Hunter Harvey
0
18.6%
13.5%
1.28
130
192
212
47
Kevin Ginkel
5
17.8%
11.0%
1.11
29
39
7
48
Fernando Cruz
0
25.5%
18.2%
1.26
94
191
N/A
49
Dedniel Núñez
0
28.6%
15.8%
0.87
79
24
16
50
Luke Weaver
0
22.7%
14.4%
0.80
19
94
63
Updated Top 50 Relievers for Saves for Week 16(statistics through games played on July 7)
Relievers on the Rise
Victor Vodnik (COL)
Justin Martinez (ARI)
Ben Joyce (LAA)
Andrew Nardi (MIA)
Relievers on or starting rehab assignments this week
Yimi García (TOR)
David Bednar (PIT)
Devin Williams (MIL)
Closer Monkey’s Updated Top 75 Relievers for SOLDS
Rank
Reliever
Saves
Holds
SOLDS
K-BB%
SwStr%
WHIP
1
Emmanuel Clase
27
0
27
21.9%
13.5%
0.64
2
Ryan Helsley
31
0
31
17.8%
16.5%
1.17
3
Robert Suarez
22
1
23
19.1%
12.1%
0.87
4
Craig Kimbrel
23
4
27
28.1%
11.9%
0.90
5
Kyle Finnegan
23
0
23
18.4%
11.9%
0.96
6
Raisel Iglesias
21
0
21
18.1%
13.8%
0.86
7
Pete Fairbanks
14
1
15
14.5%
9.2%
1.17
8
Kenley Jansen
18
0
18
18.4%
11.7%
1.05
9
Trevor Megill
18
3
21
23.9%
17.1%
0.99
10
Tanner Scott
13
1
14
12.3%
14.3%
1.08
11
JoJo Romero
0
26
26
17.0%
10.7%
0.98
12
Jhoan Durán
13
4
17
14.5%
12.5%
1.01
13
Griffin Jax
7
13
20
28.3%
17.6%
0.94
14
Evan Phillips
14
1
15
21.1%
12.8%
1.01
15
Andrés Muñoz
14
6
20
20.4%
16.3%
1.00
Rank
Reliever
Saves
Holds
SOLDS
K-BB%
SwStr%
WHIP
16
Jeff Hoffman
8
10
18
26.5%
15.7%
0.88
17
Camilo Doval
17
0
17
14.8%
15.7%
1.54
18
Carlos Estévez
16
0
16
23.1%
12.5%
0.82
19
Kirby Yates
13
2
15
24.2%
15.0%
0.86
20
Josh Hader
15
0
15
32.1%
18.5%
1.05
21
Edwin Diaz
8
2
10
26.0%
15.4%
1.14
22
Hunter Gaddis
0
18
18
23.9%
13.4%
0.71
23
James McArthur
15
1
16
14.2%
12.8%
1.30
24
Ryan Walker
0
15
15
28.2%
13.4%
0.85
25
Carlos Estévez
16
0
16
23.1%
12.5%
0.82
26
Alexis Diaz
19
0
19
9.0%
10.1%
1.41
27
Paul Sewald
11
0
11
19.4%
10.9%
0.81
28
Mason Miller
14
0
14
36.6%
20.1%
0.85
29
Jason Adam
3
15
18
15.0%
16.2%
0.88
30
Héctor Neris
12
3
15
7.9%
9.3%
1.58
Rank
Reliever
Saves
Holds
SOLDS
K-BB%
SwStr%
WHIP
31
Daniel Hudson
3
13
16
25.2%
15.8%
0.79
32
Andrew Kittredge
1
24
25
15.5%
13.6%
1.24
33
José Alvarado
13
5
18
17.1%
11.6%
1.08
34
Clay Holmes
19
0
19
18.7%
11.4%
1.31
35
Chad Green
4
6
10
17.0%
12.9%
1.00
36
Alex Vesia
5
6
11
20.9%
13.3%
0.91
37
Hunter Harvey
0
25
25
18.6%
13.5%
1.28
38
Yennier Cano
3
23
26
12.9%
13.4%
1.31
39
Ryne Stanek
7
13
20
17.9%
15.0%
1.21
40
Ryan Pressly
2
13
15
19.5%
12.1%
1.36
41
Fernando Cruz
0
17
17
25.5%
18.2%
1.26
42
Joe Jiménez
1
17
18
17.6%
13.9%
0.97
43
Jeremiah Estrada
1
8
9
32.6%
17.8%
1.04
44
A.J. Minter
1
8
9
21.3%
15.1%
0.90
45
Tyler Rogers
1
17
18
16.8%
8.5%
1.09
Rank
Reliever
Saves
Holds
SOLDS
K-BB%
SwStr%
WHIP
46
Bryan Abreu
1
19
20
19.4%
13.3%
1.32
47
A.J. Puk
1
5
6
19.6%
13.0%
0.83
48
Dedniel Núñez
0
6
6
28.6%
15.8%
0.87
49
Kevin Ginkel
5
5
10
17.8%
11.0%
1.11
50
Blake Treinen
1
7
8
22.6%
12.3%
1.06
51
Tyler Holton
2
5
7
15.5%
11.2%
0.82
52
Scott Barlow
2
17
19
21.4%
15.4%
1.29
53
Jalen Beeks
8
5
13
9.2%
9.3%
1.27
54
Justin Slaten
1
10
11
20.9%
14.7%
1.03
55
Ryan Fernandez
1
9
10
15.1%
13.4%
1.16
56
Jorge Alcala
0
8
8
12.6%
13.2%
1.05
57
Orion Kerkering
0
6
6
24.6%
11.6%
0.86
58
Luke Weaver
0
11
11
22.7%
14.4%
0.80
59
Colin Poche
2
8
10
14.0%
9.0%
1.00
60
Colin Holderman
0
13
13
16.4%
11.8%
1.19
Rank
Reliever
Saves
Holds
SOLDS
K-BB%
SwStr%
WHIP
61
Aroldis Chapman
3
13
16
14.6%
12.1%
1.68
62
Bryan Hudson
0
11
11
23.3%
10.7%
0.75
63
Ryan Thompson
0
13
13
15.7%
9.1%
0.95
64
Cade Smith
1
13
14
28.8%
12.2%
0.96
65
Jason Foley
14
4
18
11.4%
9.8%
1.32
66
Sam Hentges
0
9
9
23.8%
13.4%
0.95
67
Porter Hodge
1
2
3
19.2%
12.0%
0.88
68
Tayler Scott
0
4
4
11.4%
11.6%
1.03
69
Jacob Webb
2
12
14
12.7%
12.8%
1.13
70
Michael Kopech
8
1
9
16.3%
14.0%
1.50
71
Tyson Miller
0
4
4
22.0%
14.2%
0.73
72
John Schreiber
1
18
19
8.9%
7.7%
1.51
73
Reed Garrett
4
8
12
22.9%
16.7%
1.38
74
Andrew Nardi
0
9
9
21.4%
14.4%
1.25
75
Victor Vodnik
1
5
6
10.0%
8.7%
1.50
Updated Top 75 Relievers for SOLDS for Week 16 (Statistics through July 7)
Sunday did not provide much volume, with only six relievers recording a win and five with saves. However, Miami and Minnesota won on walk-off home runs, while Toronto held on for an extra-inning victory in Seattle. Speaking of home runs, it will be the first feature in today’s three takeaways.
Three Takeaways
Hader and home runs, part two: Whether bad luck or poor execution, Josh Hader has a home run issue this season. He’s converted 15 of 16 save chances, so he will not appear on the “hot seat,” especially as his team’s sixth highest-paid player. However, he allowed a walk-off home in Sunday’s loss, his eighth home run given up this year. This matches his home run total from 2022 in 63 fewer batters faced, and his .417 expected on-base average on contact (xwOBAcon) ranks in the bottom six percent of the league. Of more concern, his 41.7 hard-hit percentage allowed represents the second-highest rate of his career. He’s producing fewer ground balls and giving up more fly balls with a five percent rise in his pull percentage on batted balls. Hope lies in his 1.97 SIERA and 2.95 expected ERA (xERA) versus his current 4.15 ERA, but it’s the 20 percent home run per fly ball rate that should concern fantasy managers most. Here are his splits-by-pitch this year versus last, with highlighted trends:
Bednar nearing his return: After completing a live batting practice session on Saturday, David Bednar will make rehab appearances with Triple-A Indianapolis. This may be timely since Aroldis Chapman suffered a blown save on Sunday and labored through a 40-pitch outing. He’s secured a win and a save in his last three games but has produced a 61.6 strike percentage with a 2.43 WHIP and a paltry seven percent swinging strike rate.
Bigge, Bigge, Bigge, will he get strike three? The Cubs promoted reliever Hunter Bigge, although he has not made his MLB debut. He recorded six saves at Triple-A with 19 strikeouts against six walks (30.2 K-BB percentage) and a 0.686 WHIP. One would prefer seeing the walk percentage drop, but Lance Brozdowski, a talent evaluator I trust, likes his stuff; now, we will find out if it will translate into leverage events soon.
Next, our condensed game recaps cover Sunday’s high-leverage events of interest.
Closer CliffsNotes
American League
Baltimore Orioles – Shutting the door on his 23rd save, Craig Kimbrel tossed a scoreless ninth, preserving a three-run win in Oakland. He allowed a two-out single and recorded two strikeouts in his outing, throwing 12 pitches (75 Strike%) with three whiffs (25 SwStr%). He’s converted seven straight saves over seven scoreless appearances with 13 strikeouts against three walks since June 26.
Yennier Cano secured his 23rd hold, working a scoreless eighth. He issued a walk and recorded two strikeouts.
Jacob Webb notched his 12th hold, firing a clean seventh and striking out one.
Boston Red Sox – Preserving a combined shutout and taking over fifth place all-time in career saves (438), Kenley Jansen fired a clean ninth while striking out one against the Yankees. He’s converted 18 of 19 save chances this year and has been scoreless over his last 10 appearances with a 0.93 WHIP over 9.2 innings. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%).
Justin Slaten notched his tenth hold, tossing a scoreless eighth, issuing a walk, and striking out one.
Chicago White Sox – A brutal loss and blown save for Michael Kopech. It started with a leadoff walk, a leverage mortal sin. No one covered third on a bunt, letting Vidal Brújan reach the base with one out. Josh Bell hit an opposite-field double just over Tommy Pham’s glove with two outs and two strikes. This was followed by an intentional walk, a balk, and Jake Burger’s pinch-hit walk-off three-run home run. This marked Kopech’s eighth loss and fifth blown save.
John Brebbia notched his 12th hold, tossing a scoreless eighth, allowing a hit and striking out one.
Tanner Banks gave up a hit, two earned runs, and a walk for his sixth hold in the seventh inning.
Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks
Cleveland Guardians – Clase closed, though the Guardians’ closer allowed an earned run in his appearance. Emmanuel Clase secured his American League-leading 27th save, giving up a one-out double by Matt Chapman and an RBI fielder’s choice groundout. He threw 18 pitches (15 strikes – 83.3 Strike%) without inducing a whiff. He lost his nine-game scoreless streak but has converted his last 14 save chances since May 20.
Hunter Gaddis retired the side in the eighth for his 18th hold.
Tim Herrin worked a clean seventh and struck out one, notching his tenth hold.
Cade Smith collected his fourth win, firing a clean sixth and striking out one.
Hierarchy remains: Emmanuel Clase | Hunter Gaddis | Scott Barlow
Houston Astros – With the score tied in the bottom of the ninth, Josh Hader suffered his fifth loss, giving up a walk-off home run by Christian Vazquez. Hader has allowed a home run in consecutive outings, three of his last four, and five of his last seven. Placing the sixth-highest-paid player on the “hot seat” will be tough, but he will be on watch through the end of the first half.
Ryan Pressly held on for a scoreless eighth, navigating around a hit and a walk.
Bryan Abreu tossed a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one.
Bryan King gave up a hit and struck out one in a scoreless sixth.
Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu
Minnesota Twins – Working around a lead-off single by Yainer Diaz and a two-out walk, Jhoan Durán kept the game tied. He threw 22 pitches (14 strikes – 63.6 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%) while striking one against the Astros. He collected his fourth win courtesy of a walk-off home run in the bottom of the inning. He owns a modest five-game scoreless streak and has been scoreless in 11 of his last 12 contests.
Griffin Jax tossed a scoreless eighth, allowing a single and striking out two.
Josh Staumont retired the side in the seventh, reaching 101 m.p.h. on the radar.
Seattle Mariners—In the top of the tenth, Collin Snider suffered his first loss, allowing Daulton Varsho’s go-ahead RBI single, which scored the “place” runner.
Andrés Muñoz retired the side in the ninth, facing Toronto’s 1-2-3 hitters. He threw nine pitches (55.6 Strike%) and did not produce a whiff.
Austin Voth worked a clean eighth, striking out one.
Ryne Stanek allowed two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one in the seventh.
Toronto Blue Jays – With a one-run lead in the bottom of the tenth, Génesis Cabrera held on for his second save. He navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out one, inducing the game-ending flyout with the bases loaded.
Chad Green collected his second win, working around his bases-loaded situation for a scoreless ninth. He gave up two hits and a walk while striking out two, throwing 22 pitches (16 strikes—72.7 Strike%) with four whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).
Brendon Little stranded the bases loaded in the eighth, inducing an inning-ending J.P. Crawford groundout.
Zach Pop allowed a hit batter and two walks (one intentional) during his two-thirds of the eighth.
Nate Pearson retired the side in the seventh and recorded one strikeout.
Hierarchy remains: Chad Green | Trevor Richards | Nate Pearson
National League
Chicago Cubs – Pressed into action with the bases loaded and two outs, Héctor Neris produced a game-ending strikeout of Zach Neto, preserving the combined shutout and securing his 12th save on four pitches. This extended his scoreless streak to five games, and he’s recorded nine strikeouts against two walks in his last 4.1 innings.
Luke Little created this save situation, allowing two hits and a walk during his two-thirds of the ninth.
Porter Hodge stranded two runners in the seventh and retired five straight hitters, securing his second hold.
Hierarchy remains: Héctor Neris | Tyson Miller | Porter Hodge
Cincinnati Reds – Entering with his team down by one, Alexis Díaz did not fare well in a non-save outing, though his defense did him no favors. Things started well with Díaz recording two quick strikeouts, then Gio Urshela reached on a Noelvi Marte error, followed by Zach McKinstry’s two-run home run. Jake Rogers produced a two-out single, stole second base, and scored on a Parker Meadows RBI single, with the inning ending on a caught stealing. Díaz threw 23 pitches (14 strikes – 60.8 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. His final line was three hits, three runs (zero earned), and two strikeouts.
Buck Farmer worked a clean top of the ninth, striking out one.
Hierarchy remains: Alexis Díaz | Fernando Cruz | Sam Moll
Miami Marlins – Benefiting from his team’s walk-off rally, JT Chargois collected his first win. He allowed a hit during a scoreless ninth with a one-run deficit.
Andrew Nardi tossed a scoreless eighth, walking one and striking out one.
Calvin Faucher logged two scoreless frames and recorded two strikeouts.
Declan Cronin gave up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out two in the fifth.
Updated Hierarchy: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk | Andrew Nardi
Milwaukee Brewers – Making a non-save appearance, Trevor Megill tossed a scoreless bottom of the ninth, closing a seven-run win over the Dodgers. He allowed a two-out single by James Outman and recorded all three outs via strikeout. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%). He owns a 10-game scoreless streak and converted all six save chances with 10 strikeouts against one walk in his last 9.1 innings.
Elvis Peguero fired a clean bottom of the eighth, striking out the side.
Jakob Junis collected his first win, giving up three hits and two earned runs while striking out three over 2.2 innings as the “bulk follower.”
Devin Williams will throw a live bullpen session on Tuesday and could head out on rehab assignment after he’s cleared.
Hierarchy remains: Trevor Megill | Joel Payamps | Bryan Hudson
New York Mets – Despite suffering his fifth blown save in the bottom of the eighth, Edwin Díaz collected his third win courtesy of a two-run rally by his teammates in the top of the ninth. He was summoned with two runners on and two outs in the eighth. After walking Joshua Palacios, Díaz allowed Nick Gonzales’ two-RBI single, ceding the lead. In the ninth, the Mets’ closer retired the side in order, preserving the one-run comeback win. He threw 22 pitches (12 strikes – 54.5 Strike%) without inducing a whiff.
Dedniel Núñez was credited with his sixth hold but allowed two hits, which resulted in two earned runs while striking out two in the eighth.
Reed Garrett worked a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and striking out one.
Pittsburgh Pirates – With a one-run lead in the top of the ninth, Aroldis Chapman suffered his fourth loss and third blown save while struggling with his command. His outing began with a lead-off walk, a leverage no-no, followed by a Harrison Bader single and two strikeouts, with a wild pitch moving up both runners. Then things went sideways. A Jose Iglesias loaded the bases, and Francisco Lindor produced a go-ahead, two RBI single. After issuing another walk, Chapman was removed. He finished with two hits, two earned runs, and three walks while striking out two over two-thirds of the ninth.
Kyle Nicolas retired J.D. Martinez, stranding the bases-loaded situation.
Colin Holderman gave up two hits, an earned run, and two walks while striking out one in the eighth.
Carmen Mlodzinski worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one.
Adjusted Hierarchy: Aroldis Chapman | Colin Holderman | Carmen Mlodzinski
Vulture Save Option for Monday, July 8
Scott Barlow (CLE): Clase and Gaddis have appeared in consecutive games.
Colin Holderman (PIT): Chapman threw 40 pitches on Sunday and has allowed at least a run in three straight outings.
Adam Ottavino (NYM): The Mets’ hierarchy pitched on back-to-back days this weekend.
Vulture Save Stash for Tuesday, July 9
Fernando Cruz (CIN): If Alexis Díaz pitches today, it should be Cruz for the vulture save on Tuesday.
Jorge Alcala (MIN): If Durán and Jax make appearances today, Alcala would be in line for the save in tomorrow’s contest.
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.
Saturday’s slate provided a bit of everything from a fantasy perspective. Nine relievers recorded a win, though two were accompanied by a blown save. Nine saves were secured, three were a reliever’s first of the season, and two were career firsts. Baseball-Reference identifies a blowout as a game decided by five runs or more, and there were five such occasions in this slate. It also featured four one-run contests, two two-run games, and one reached extra-innings.
Edwin Díaz returned from suspension and recorded a save with a restructured hierarchy. Jason Foley struggled again, and the Dodgers played match-ups in the late innings, all covered in today’s takeaways.
Three Takeaways
Mets adjusted hierarchy: With Díaz back, the Mets did not option José Buttó; rather, he pitched 1.2 innings and collected the win over the Nationals on Saturday. Those in leagues with holds as a separate category, or SOLDS should note that Dedniel Núñez operated as the set-up reliever in the eighth. He retired the side and struck out one on eight pitches. His stock goes up in these formats if he’s shifting into one-inning outings ahead of his team’s closer.
Foley’s role moving forward: One day removed from a shaky save, Jason Foley was removed during Saturday’s save opportunity with a runner on and two outs, with a left-handed hitter on deck. Andrew Chafin recorded the one-out save, striking out the pinch-hitter. It’s not solely this isolated event affecting Foley’s status atop the bullpen hierarchy; he’s allowed at least a run in four straight games. His struggles align with his team’s drop in the standings, but one cannot ignore the low volume of his performance and the risk he poses to a fantasy team’s ratio statistics. This is illustrated by his results before and after May.:
Dodgers play match-ups on Saturday: In the eighth inning, with a one-run lead and Milwaukee’s 2-3-4 lineup pocket batting, Dave Roberts summoned Evan Phillips, his highest-leveraged reliever (HLR). This usually works out for Los Angeles, but Phillips’ struggles with left-handed hitters continued, and he allowed a game-tying home run against Christian Yelich. After the Dodgers rallied for two runs in the bottom of the inning, Alex Vesia recorded his fifth save, and third since June 14. He’s not taking over the primary save share, but for those in deeper leagues, or even those in 12-team formats, he may be worth streaming through the All-Star break. His three saves in this timeframe ties Jhoan Durán, Kirby Yates, and James McArthur.
Closer CliffsNotes
American League
Boston Red Sox – Forced into action in the bottom of the fourth, Brennan Bernardino stranded a runner on a lineout. Things did not go as smoothly in the fifth, putting a second loss on his ledger. He allowed consecutive one-out singles and was replaced by Greg Weissert.
Weissert let both inherited runners score, giving up two hits, four earned runs, and two walks over one-third of the fifth, resulting in his third blown save.
Chase Anderson also allowed two inherited runners to score. He logged 3.1 innings, giving up five hits and five earned runs while striking out three.
Chicago White Sox – Suffering his ninth loss while logging three innings, Michael Soroka allowed four hits, including Dane Myers’ go-ahead two-run home run in the bottom of the seventh. He also issued a walk and recorded four strikeouts in his outing.
Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks
Cleveland Guardians – Securing his American League-leading 26th save, Emmanuel Clase navigated around a two-out walk for a scoreless ninth, preserving a one-run win over the Giants. He threw 20 pitches (65 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s converted his last 13 save opportunities and been scoreless over his last nine appearances.
Hunter Gaddis notched his 17th hold, firing a clean top of the eighth and striking out two.
Sam Hentges let his only inherited runner score on Michael Conforto’s RBI double and recorded two outs in the seventh for his ninth hold.
Pedro Avila collected his third win, giving up a hit and an earned run with two strikeouts over 1.1 innings.
Hierarchy remains: Emmanuel Clase | Hunter Gaddis | Scott Barlow
Detroit Tigers – Summoned with a runner on and two outs in the bottom of the ninth, Andrew Chafin recorded his first save on a game-ending Santiago Espinal strikeout. He’s been scoreless over his last seven appearances, posting 11 strikeouts against zero walks.
Jason Foley allowed two hits, including Spencer Steer’s solo home run during two-thirds of the ninth for his fourth hold. He’s given up at least a run in four consecutive appearances. He would land on the “hot seat,” but there’s no clear choice to replace him in this bullpen based on recent performances.
Shelby Miller logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out three while collecting his fifth win.
Tyler Holton worked 1.2 scoreless innings, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out two.
Hierarchy remains: Jason Foley | Tyler Holton | Will Vest
New York Yankees – Taking over in the top of the fifth with one out, Tim Hill logged 2.2 clean frames and recorded a strikeout while collecting his second win. He threw 32 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff.
Josh Maciejewski finished the lopsided 10-run victory with two scoreless innings, yielding a hit and striking out four.
Hierarchy remains: Clay Holmes | Luke Weaver | Michael Tonkin
Texas Rangers – Preserving a one-run lead, Kirby Yates retired the side in the top of the ninth while recording his 13th save. He threw 10 pitches (60 Strike%) without a whiff, appearing for a second straight day. He owns a six-game scoreless streak and has converted his three saves with 10 strikeouts versus one walk over his last six innings.
David Robertson secured his 18th hold, firing a clean eighth.
Jonathan Hernández was awarded his second win. He stranded a runner and retired Richie Palacios on a groundout, his only batter faced.
Hierarchy remains: Kirby Yates | David Robertson | José Leclerc
Toronto Blue Jays – Hanging on for his fourth save, Chad Green allowed Luke Raley’s solo home run and recorded two strikeouts during his 1.1 inning-outing in Seattle. He threw 27 pitches (20 strikes – 74.1 Strike%) and induced three whiffs. This snapped his nine-game scoreless streak but he’s converted two saves in his last three appearances.
Brendon Little gave up a hit and struck out one during two-thirds of the eighth for his second hold.
Trevor Richards was credited with his seventh hold despite allowing three hits and three earned runs in a combined inning. He faced three batters in the eighth, giving up two singles and a three-run home run by Mitch Haniger.
Hierarchy remains: Chad Green | Trevor Richards | Nate Pearson
National League
Arizona Diamondbacks – Taking over a bases-loaded situation in the bottom of the tenth, Humberto Castellanos recorded a strikeout of Ha-Seong Kim, then induced a game-ending flyout by Kyle Higashioka for his first major league save.
Thyago Vieira opened the tenth with a three-run lead, allowing a lead-off walk, an RBI double by Donovan Solano, and a walk before retiring a batter via strikeout before being lifted.
Ryan Thompson collected his fourth win and fourth blown save, permitting his only inherited runner to score on Kim’s RBI double in the eighth, tying the game. Thompson logged 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding only one hit.
Bryce Jarvis was credited with his third hold, giving up a hit, an earned run, and striking out two during a combined inning.
Joe Mantiply gave up four hits and two earned runs over two-thirds of the seventh for his seventh hold.
Kevin Ginkel fired 1.2 clean innings and recorded four strikeouts.
Hierarchy remains: Paul Sewald | Ryan Thompson | Kevin Ginkel
Cincinnati Reds – Taking over with a two-run lead in the top of the eighth, Fernando Cruz suffered his sixth loss and third blown save. He allowed a one-out double, followed by a two-run home run, issued a walk, and was replaced after one-third of an inning. He finished with two hits, three earned runs, and a walk.
Sam Moll walked a batter upon entry, then gave up a go-ahead RBI double with the run charged to Cruz. He finished with a hit, two earned runs, and a walk over his one-third of the eighth.
Lucas Sims let his only inherited runner score, giving up a hit and a walk during his one-third of the eighth.
These three gave up five earned runs in the eventual loss.
Hierarchy remains: Alexis Díaz | Fernando Cruz | Sam Moll
Colorado Rockies – Navigating around a one-out single and a two-out walk, Victor Vodnik recorded his first major league save with a scoreless ninth, preserving a two-run win over the Royals. He threw 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs while striking out one in his outing. He owns a modest six-game scoreless streak with eight strikeouts against three walks.
Tyler Kinley notched his sixth hold, allowing a hit during a scoreless eighth facing the top of the lineup and benefiting from Bobby Witt Jr. being picked off first base.
Hierarchy remains: Jalen Beeks | Tyler Kinley | Victor Vodnik
Los Angeles Dodgers – Capping his team’s two-run rally in the bottom of the eighth, Alex Vesia retired the side in the ninth against the Brewers’ 6-7-8 hitters and recorded a strikeout. He threw 17 pitches (10 strikes—58.8 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s been scoreless in six of his last seven and converted two of three save chances.
Evan Phillips was summoned in the eighth versus the 2-3-4 lineup pocket with a one-run lead but allowed Christian Yelich’s game-tying solo home run and struck out one. He benefited from the two-run rally and collected his second win despite suffering his first blown save of the season.
Blake Treinen notched his seventh hold, firing a clean seventh and striking out one.
Daniel Hudson tossed a scoreless sixth, walking one and striking out one for his 13th hold.
Hierarchy remains: Evan Phillips | Daniel Hudson | Alex Vesia
Miami Marlins – Locking down his 13th save, Tanner Scott retired the side in the top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout while preserving a one-run win over the White Sox. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). He’s allowed two earned runs over his last 24 appearances since May 1 with 23 scoreless contests while converting nine of ten save chances with 30 strikeouts against 10 walks.
A.J. Puk fired a clean eighth, striking out two for his fifth hold.
Huascar Brazóban collected his first win, tossing two scoreless frames, issuing a walk, and striking out five.
Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | A.J. Puk
Milwaukee Brewers – Appearing on consecutive days for the first time since April, Bryan Hudson suffered his first loss after entering a tied game at the bottom of the eighth. He gave up two solo home runs and only recorded one out before being lifted.
Rob Zastryzny allowed a walk and struck out one over two-thirds scoreless in the eighth.
Logging three innings of scoreless bulk relief, Bryce Wilson scattered three hits and recorded a strikeout.
Hierarchy remains: Trevor Megill | Joel Payamps | Bryan Hudson
New York Mets – Back from his suspension and into a save chance, Edwin Díaz secured his eighth save, finishing a three-run win over the Pirates. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and produced three whiffs while striking out one in his clean outing. He’s been scoreless in his last five appearances and converted all three save chances since his return from the injured list in June.
Dedniel Núñez retired the side in the eighth and struck out for his fifth hold.
Reed Garrett navigated around a hit and two walks with two strikeouts in a scoreless seventh, notching his eighth hold.
José Buttó collected his third win, tossing 1.2 scoreless frames, allowing a walk.
San Diego Padres – In the top of the tenth, Wandy Peralta could not record an out, resulting in his second loss. He allowed two hits, including Christian Walker’s two-RBI single, three runs (two earned), and a walk.
Stephen Kolek retired all three batters after replacing Peralta but let one of two inherited runners score on a fielder’s choice groundout and recorded one strikeout.
Adrian Morejon worked a scoreless ninth, walking one, and kept the game tied.
Jeremiah Estrada fired a clean eighth and struck out two.
Yuki Matsui gave up two hits and an earned run while striking out one in the seventh.
Hierarchy remains: Robert Suarez | Jeremiah Estrada | Adrian Morejon
Washington Nationals – With two runners on and one out, Jacob Barnes stranded both and logged two scoreless, combined innings while collecting his fifth win. He gave up two hits and a walk while striking out one.
Jonathan Hernández (TEX): Yates and Robertson have pitched the two previous games, and José Leclerc has been used as a multi-inning option, which may be necessary with Texas seeking a sweep. This represents a risky vulture option, but it’s slim pickings today based on recent usage patterns.
Vulture Save Stashes for Monday, July 8
Pierce Johnson (ATL): If Atlanta uses its hierarchy today (Iglesias, Jiménez, and Minter), it will mark back-to-back outings and a day off on Monday.
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.
Friday’s slate featured many high-leverage events, including extra innings between the Yankees and Red Sox, a walk-off home run for the Padres, and Ryan Helsley‘s first multiple-inning outing in 2024 during his second blown save, snapping his historic streak. Seven relievers recorded wins and 11 secured saves in the 15 games last night.
Sometimes, it’s difficult to identify three situations for our takeaways, but last night’s slate yielded too many. We will focus on Clay Holmes‘ recent struggles, revisit Josh Hader’s home run issues and team usage patterns, and José Alvarado‘s role in the second half.
Three Takeaways
Holmes versus batting average on balls in play: Blown saves like Friday night fuel the fire for fantasy managers and a fan base for overreaction. Clay Holmes could not finish the win with two outs and two strikes, allowing a single and a game-tying two-run home run. He’s given up at least a run in five of his last seven outings and multiple runs in four. Of his last 31 batters faced, he’s yielded 11 hits, including two home runs, producing a. .355 batting average against, a 1.000 on-base plus slugging percentage (OPS), and an unsustainable .429 batting average on balls in play (BAbip). His 10.80 ERA accompanies a 1.97 SIERA and 25.8 K-BB percentage in this sample. However, his sinker results must improve. He’s thrown 82 in these contests with a .310 expected batting average, a .583 expected slugging, and a .385 BAbip. Will the team continue deploying him in the ninth, or will this stretch fuel a move ahead of the trade deadline for a closer?
More Hader and home runs: Cherry-picking timeframes for narratives remains easy for fantasy analysts, but one cannot ignore Josh Hader‘s recent uptick in home runs allowed. He’s served up four against his last 44 batters, three against his sinker, and one against his slider. Despite this, he’s converted all six save chances with 16 strikeouts against one walk (34.1 K-BB percentage) and a 1.00 WHIP over his last 11 innings since June 9. In this timeframe, he’s leaned into his sinker usage, 82.8 percent, producing a 50 percent hard-hit rate, while his slider has generated a .712 expected slugging percentage and one home run. Time will tell if this represents a blip or a migration toward his home run per fly ball issues from 2019, but he’s already allowed more barrels this year than in 2023 in 30 fewer batted ball events.
Alvarado and saves: From a fantasy perspective, operating in the “floating closer” concept can be beneficial at times. However, it can also fuel frustration. José Alvarado took over in the eighth against Atlanta’s top-of-the-lineup with a five-run lead in a non-save situation but a higher leveraged one from his manager’s standpoint. He allowed a one-out single, a walk, and a two-out three-run home run by Marcell Ozuna. Since the start of June, Alvarado’s converted four of five save opportunities, giving up nine hits and seven runs (six earned) with a 14:3 K:BB (22.9 K-BB percentage). He’s only secured one save since June 14, and his drop in strikeout percentage this season may prompt his general manager to add a veteran reliever with closer experience (source). Philadelphia has been linked with multiple relievers currently on the market and is intrigued by Kyle Finnegan. Stay tuned and note his rolling 10-game chart:
In case you missed it, our third Trade Deadline primer was posted on Friday. It features playoff odds, potential relievers on projected sellers, and some interesting save stashes.
Baltimore Orioles – Locking down his 22nd save, Craig Kimbrel preserved the one-run margin with a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts in Oakland. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and generated four whiffs against the 4-5-6 lineup pocket. He’s converted six straight saves, all hitless and scoreless, with 11 strikeouts versus three walks.
Yennier Cano secured his American League-leading 22nd hold, allowing a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
Jacob Webb notched his 11th hold with a clean seventh, striking out two.
Boston Red Sox – Capping a comeback, Kenley Jansen recorded his 17th save and 437th of his career, moving into a tie for fifth all-time with Francisco Rodriguez. He preserved a two-run win with a scoreless bottom of the tenth, allowing a Juan Soto single and then retiring the next three Yankees in order. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) without a whiff and has converted eight saves in his last ten appearances.
Justin Slaten collected his fifth win, firing a clean bottom of the ninth and striking out one.
Cam Booser logged two scoreless frames, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out one.
Sam Horn worked 2.2 scoreless, though he let one of three inherited runners score in the fourth, scattering two hits and striking out three.
Before Friday’s game, Chris Martin was placed on the 15-day injured list with elbow inflammation.
Chicago White Sox – Hanging on for his eighth save, Michael Kopech issued a lead-off walk in the bottom of the ninth, a high-leverage no-no. He did record two outs on a groundout and a strikeout before consecutive singles scored a run. With two runners on and two outs, Kopech induced a game-ending groundout by Josh Bell. He threw 25 pitches (56 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (12 SwStr%) through 1.1 innings. He’s allowed a run in his last two games but has three saves in his last five.
Tanner Banks notched his fifth hold, recording two outs and leaving with a runner who reached on an error in the eighth.
John Brebbia let his only inherited runner score, giving up two hits and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the seventh for his 11th hold.
Hierarchy remains: Michael Kopech | John Brebbia | Tanner Banks
Detroit Tigers – Taking over with a three-run lead in the bottom of the ninth, Jason Foley recorded his 14th save despite allowing four hits and two earned runs with a strikeout. His outing began with Elly De La Cruz’s lead-off single, a stolen base, and a balk, putting him on third. After striking out Jeimer Candelario, Foley gave up an RBI single by Spener Steer, Nick Martini’s RBI triple. He was thrown out at home on a fielder’s choice groundout before a game-ending groundout. He threw 24 pitches (19 strikes – 79.2 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). This marked his first save since June 21, and it was not pretty.
Andrew Chafin fired a clean eighth and recorded a strikeout for his sixth hold.
Will Vest logged 1.1 celan frames and struck out one, securing his third hold.
Hierarchy remains: Jason Foley | Tyler Holton | Will Vest
Houston Astros – Summoned into a bases-loaded situation, Josh Hader allowed Carlos Correa’s grand slam, scoring all three inherited runners and recording a game-ending strikeout of Manuel Margot for his 15th save. It will not appear in usage logs, but Hader warmed up every day between June 29 and July 2, plus these consecutive outings, which means he’s appeared in a game or prepared for one in six of the last seven days.
Luis Contreras created the mess, allowing six hits, six earned runs, and a walk while striking out two over 1.2 innings.
Bryan Abreu was credited with his 19th hold, giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two.
Rafael Montero fired a clean sixth and struck out one for his tenth hold.
Bryan King gave up two hits, an earned run, and a walk in the fifth. He was credited with his first win.
Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu
New York Yankees – One strike away from preserving a win, Clay Holmes allowed a Dom Smith single and a game-tying, two-run home run by Masataka Yoshida, resulting in his fifth blown save. He threw 30 pitches (60 Strike%) and did not induce a whiff against the Red Sox. He last recorded a save on June 9 and has allowed at least a run in five of his last seven games and multiple runs in four. With pressure mounting in the Bronx, he would be placed on the hot seat but there’s no clear alternative to replace him unless the team stops using Weaver during multiple-inning outings.
Tommy Kahnle suffered his first loss, giving up a two-run home run by Ceddanne Rafaela in the top of the tenth. He finished with two hits against, two runs (one earned), and a walk while striking out one.
Luke Weaver tossed two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out three for his 11th hold.
Hierarchy remains: Clay Holmes | Luke Weaver | Michael Tonkin
Seattle Mariners – Lined up against the top of Toronto’s batting order, Andrés Muñoz nailed down his 14th save, first since June 18, with a clean ninth. He threw 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in seven of his last eight contests but has only produced five strikeouts over seven innings.
Ryne Stanek secured his 13th hold with a clean eighth and struck out one.
Austin Voth notched his eighth hold, striking out his only batter in the seventh and stranding a runner.
Texas Rangers – Shutting the door on his 12th save, and first since June 19, Kirby Yates fired a clean top of the ninth while recording two strikeouts. He preserved the combined shutout with 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He remains one of two relievers with at least 10 saves without suffering a blown one.
David Robertson notched his 17th hold, logging 1.1 scoreless frames and stranded two runners in the seventh. He gave up a hit and recorded two strikeouts.
Jake Latz was credited with his seventh hold despite issuing two walks over two-thirds of the seventh.
José Leclerc tossed a scoreless sixth, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out two for his fourth hold.
Hierarchy remains: Kirby Yates | David Robertson | José Leclerc
National League
Arizona Diamondbacks – With a one-run lead in the bottom of the ninth, Paul Sewald suffered his second loss and second blown save. He allowed Jurickson Profar’s lead-off home run, issued Jake Cronenworth a walk, and served up Manny Machado’s walk-off, two-run home run. After converting 11 consecutive save chances across 17 scoreless outings, he’s produced back-to-back walk-off losses this week, putting five hits and five earned runs on his ledger while recording only two outs.
Humberto Castellanos logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit.
Hierarchy remains: Paul Sewald | Ryan Thompson | Kevin Ginkel
Colorado Rockies – After allowing consecutive singles leading off the top of the ninth, Jalen Beeks recovered with three quick outs and secured his eighth save. He recorded a strikeout against Garrett Hampson, induced a Dairon Blanco pop-out, and a game-ending Maikel Garcia groundout, preserving the two-run win. He threw 17 pitches (9 strikes – 52.9 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s been scoreless in his three July appearances and recorded a save on consecutive days.
Victor Vodnik collected his second win, tossing a scoreless top of the eighth. He gave up a hit and struck out one ahead of his team’s two-run rally in the bottom of the inning.
Hierarchy remains: Jalen Beeks | Tyler Kinley | Victor Vodnik
Los Angeles Dodgers – Slamming the door on his 14th save, Evan Phillips fired a clean top of the ninth, striking out the side against Milwaukee. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (41.7 SwStr%) versus the 4-5-6 lineup pocket. This marked his first multi-strikeout outing since June 20, and he’s only produced two such games since returning from the injured list on June 1, a span of 14 contests.
Daniel Hudson kept the game tied in the top of the eighth, retiring the side and striking out one. He collected his sixth win courtesy of a three-run rally in the bottom of the inning.
Blake Treinen tossed a scoreless seventh, allowing a hit.
Hierarchy remains: Evan Phillips | Daniel Hudson | Alex Vesia
Milwaukee Brewers – Taking over a tied game in the bottom of the eighth, Elvis Peguero suffered his third loss. He allowed a lead-off single, recorded an out, and issued two walks sandwiched around a Shohei Ohtani groundout. He was removed with the bases loaded and two outs.
Hoby Milner gave up a two-RBI single by Freddie Freeman, followed by an RBI double by Teoscar Hernández before an inning-ending strikeout, scoring all three inherited runners on Peguero’s tab.
Bryan Hudson was tagged with his second blown save, giving up two hits, including a solo home run by Will Smith, and a walk in the seventh.
Joel Payamps worked a clean sixth and struck out one for his 11th hold.
Hierarchy remains: Trevor Megill | Joel Payamps | Bryan Hudson
Philadelphia Phillies – Facing Atlanta’s 7-8-9 lineup pocket, Jeff Hoffman nailed down his eighth save, retiring the side and striking out one while preserving a two-run win. He threw 14 pitches (9 strikes – 64.3 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless and recorded a save in his last three outings.
José Alvarado gave up two hits, including a three-run home run by Marcell Ozuna and a walk during the bottom of the eighth. This represents the third time Alvarado’s allowed multiple runs in an appearance this year.
Orion Kerkering tossed a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and striking out two. He owns a modest six-game scoreless streak.
San Diego Padres – An eventful ninth inning does not give justice to this contest, but it resulted in a third win for Stephen Kolek, courtesy of a walk-off in the bottom of the inning. He stranded a runner while striking out Christian Walker, keeping the game tied.
Robert Suarez was used for a third straight game and struggled. He entered with the bases loaded in the ninth and gave up a grand slam by Alek Thomas, moving the Diamondbacks within a run. After recording an out, he allowed a Corbin Carroll, a go-ahead pinch-hit home run by Randal Grichuk, and a single before his removal. He finished with four hits and three earned runs over one-third of an inning, resulting in his second blown save.
Enyel De Los Santos recorded the last out in the eighth and the first of the ninth before giving up two hits and a walk, prompting his removal.
Wandy Peralta logged 1.1 scoreless combined innings between the seventh and eighth innings.
Hierarchy remains: Robert Suarez | Jeremiah Estrada | Adrian Morejon
San Francisco Giants – Despite beginning his save chance with a mental mistake of not covering first on an infield single by Steven Kwan, followed by a walk, Camilo Doval regained his footing. He recorded a strikeout against José Ramírez and a game-ending double play groundout by Josh Naylor, securing his 17th save. He threw 15 pitches (7 strikes – 46.7 Strike%), producing only one whiff. He’s been scoreless in seven of his last eight appearances, converting five of six save chances with 12 strikeouts against two walks.
Tyler Rogers navigated around two hits for a scoreless eighth and his 17th hold.
Ryan Walker collected his fifth win, stranding two runners in the sixth and logging 1.2 scoreless frames. He allowed a walk and recorded two strikeouts in his outing.
Randy Rodríguez gets credit for his third hold but gave up two hits, an earned run, and a walk over one-third of the sixth.
Taylor Rogers notched his sixth hold, yielding a hit and striking out two in a scoreless fifth.
Hierarchy remains: Camilo Doval | Tyler Rogers | Ryan Walker
St. Louis Cardinals – In his 40th appearance, Ryan Helsley strayed from the preseason plan and collected his third win while making his first multi-inning outing of the season. He tossed two innings, giving up two hits, including Keibert Ruiz’s RBI single in the tenth, resulting in his second blown save, snapping his streak. In the 11th, he bore down, recording two quick outs, issuing CJ Abrams an intentional walk, and inducing a game-ending groundout, preserving the one-run lead. He threw 27 pitches (20 strikes – 74.1 Strike%) and induced one whiff.
JoJo Romero gave up a hit and struck out one over two-thirds scoreless in the ninth.
Ryan Fernandez tossed a scoreless combined inning, allowing a walk.
Hierarchy remains: Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | JoJo Romero
Washington Nationals – During his second inning of relief, Dylan Floro suffered his second loss with the game-winning run, scoring on a passed ball while striking out Willson Contreras. Floro finished with a hit allowed and two unearned runs with one strikeout over two innings.
Kyle Finnegan was tagged with his fourth blown save, giving up a game-tying solo home run by Contreras in the top of the ninth. He gave up two hits and the earned run on 22 pitches (14 strikes – 63.6 Strike%) with three whiffs.
Hunter Harvey stranded two runners on one pitch in the seventh but allowed three hits and an earned run in the eighth for his 25th hold.
Derek Law was credited with his eighth hold, allowing a hit and a walk over two-thirds of the seventh.
Robert Garcia yielded a hit during a scoreless sixth, securing his 11th hold.
Ryan Pressly (HOU): Not only has Hader appeared in back-to-back games, but he’s prepared for an appearance in six of the last seven days.
Yennier Cano (BAL): Kimbrel’s worked in three of the last four.
Jeremiah Estrada (SDP): Perhaps last night’s meltdown can be attributed to Suarez appearing in three straight games.
Trent Thornton (SEA): Muñoz and Stanek have appeared in two straight, putting Thornton in line for a vulture save today.
Vulture Save Stashes for Sunday, July 7
Orion Kerkering (PHI): If Alvarado and Hoffman pitch today, the rookie may finally get a save chance on Sunday.
David Robertson (TEX): If Yates pitches today, it will be consecutive outings.
Kevin Ginkel (ARI): A Sewald outing today would mean back-to-back appearances and Sunday off.
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.
Many columns regarding the Trade Deadline have been posted, but the reliever market is not yet robust. It will pick up momentum, especially during the All-Star break. Teams will have a better idea about their chances for the playoffs, making tough roster decisions easier.
Entering gameplay on July 5, the last Wild Card spot in the National League has seven teams within six games, five only four games or fewer behind, and three teams at three games back or less. Here are the current playoff odds from Baseball-Reference for the senior circuit:
Taking this a step further, here are the 10 teams in the Wild Card spots, and below, remaining schedules until the All-Star break:
Arizona Diamondbacks: 3 @ SDP; 4 vs. ATL; 3 vs. TOR
Atlanta Braves: 3 vs. PHI; 4 @ ARI; 3 @ SDP
Chicago Cubs: 3 vs. LAA; 3 @ BAL; 4 @ STL
Cincinnati Reds: 3 vs. DET; 4 vs. COL; 3 vs. MIA
New York Mets: 4 @ PIT; 3 vs. WSH; 3 vs. COL
Pittsburgh Pirates: 4 vs. NYM; 3 @ MIL; 3 @ CWS
San Diego Padres: 3 vs. ARI; 2 vs. SEA; 3 vs. ATL
San Francisco Giants: 3 @ CLE; 3 vs. TOR; 3 vs. MIN
St. Louis Cardinals: 3 @ WSH; 2 vs. KCR; 4 vs. CHC
Washington Nationals: 3 vs. STL; 3 @ NYM; 3 @ MIL
Things seem more stable in the American League, and teams like Tampa Bay and Boston should know how to proceed after the All-Star break. First, the playoff odds snapshot:
Teams currently in the Wild Card spots and within three-and-a-half games entering gameplay on July 5:
Boston Red Sox: 3 @ NYY; 3 vs. OAK; 3 vs. KCR
Houston Astros: 3 @ MIN; 3 vs. MIA; 3 vs. TEX
Kansas City Royals: 3 @ COL; 2 @ STL; 3 @ BOS
Minnesota Twins: 3 vs. HOU; 3 @ CWS; 3 @ SFG
New York Yankees: 3 vs. BOS; 3 @ TBR; 3 @ BAL
Tampa Bay Rays: 3 @ TEX; 3 vs. NYY; 3 vs. CLE
In the most recent Trade Deadline update at The Athletic, Ken Rosenthal feels these four teams will trend toward sellers in the next two weeks:
Chicago Cubs
Texas Rangers
Detroit Tigers
Toronto Blue Jays
Only the Cubs and Rangers represent new teams in the mix of projected sellers.
American League Projected “Sellers”
Chicago White Sox
On the block: Michael Kopech; John Brebbia
Potential Leverage Replacement: Jordan Leasure
Detroit Tigers
On the block: Andrew Chafin; Shelby Miller
Potential Leverage Replacement: None
Los Angeles Angels
On the block: Carlos Estévez; Luis García; Matt Moore
Potential Leverage Replacement: Ben Joyce
This note on Estévez appeared in a recent post by Mark Feinsand on MLB.com:
Oakland Athletics
On the block: Lucas Erceg
Potential Leverage Replacement: Grant Holman
Texas Rangers
“Potentially” on the block: Kirby Yates; David Robertson; José Leclerc
Potential Leverage Replacements: Josh Sborz; Antoine Kelly
From Feinsand’s column:
Toronto Blue Jays
“Potentially” on the block: Chad Green; Yimi García; Trevor Richards
Potential Leverage Replacements: Erik Swanson; Nate Pearson; Brendon Little
He may not be atop many teams target list, but Richards could be a sneaky play for a contender seeking length and depth in its bullpen:
I think you can put the Phillies and Dodgers on the potential fits as well.
Potential Sellers after the All-Star Break
Tampa Bay Rays
Potentially on the block: Jason Adam; Phil Maton
Possible Leverage Replacements: Justin Sterner
Washington Nationals
Potentially on the block: Kyle Finnegan; Hunter Harvey
Possible Leverage Replacement: Derek Law; Zach Brzykcy
If these two teams decide to move one or both of these relievers, the scope of the leverage market could change. It could also shift if the Rays keep Adam and trade Pete Fairbanks. However, it depends on how these franchises view the rest of this year and their window for next season.
Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community. Stay safe and be well.
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of these cookies.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
Cookie
Duration
Description
cookielawinfo-checbox-analytics
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checbox-functional
11 months
The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checbox-others
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy
11 months
The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
