Monkey Bytes | July 22

Continuing a season-long trend of injuries in the Dodgers’ leverage ladder, Tanner Scott left his outing early in Monday’s game after spiking a 2-2 pitch while facing Ryan Jeffers:

His manager anticipates a stint on the injured list, which may make the defending World Champions a player in the ever-evolving trade market for high-leverage relievers. Until roster changes occur, Alex Vesia has recorded three ancillary saves this season, in addition to the three now by Kirby Yates. In the short term, these are the two preferred targets. 

Postseason hero, Blake Treinen, is in the final phase of his rehab assignment at Triple-A and will appear in consecutive games before being activated, according to his manager. Once this occurs, he will also be in the mix for saves. 

For now: 

Adjusted Hierarchy: *Alex Vesia | *Kirby Yates | Jack Dreyer

Once Treinen arrives, he will work in tandem with Vesia at the backend of contests, sharing saves or potentially being the preferred option.

In Monday’s full 15-game slate, relievers recorded six wins and six saves while suffering four losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BBBF
Robert Suarez291090201:04
Josh Hader261838.900:25
Jeff Hoffman24167512.53:03
Edwin Díaz201464.335.73:03
David Bednar14988.901:04
Kirby Yates3966.722.20:02

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for July 22

  • Alex Vesia (LAD): With Scott likely unavailable and Yates having pitched in back-to-back games, it puts Vesia in line for a potential save in tonight’s contest. 
  • Bryan Abreu (HOU): Hader has thrown 53 pitches over the last three days. 
  • Ryne Stanek (NYM): Díaz has appeared in consecutive contests. 

Of interest for fantasy players, David Bednar and Dennis Santana have appeared in consecutive games and should be unavailable tonight. Will the Pirates use Isaac Mattson, Braxton Ashcraft, or another reliever for a save chance if it’s provided? This may indicate who the team prefers if their two high-leverage relievers are traded before the deadline.

Vulture Save Stashes for July 23

  • Yariel Rodríguez (TOR): If Hoffman pitches tonight, it will be back-to-back games and four in the last five. 
  • Garrett Whitlcock (BOS): If Chapman pitches in today’s game, it will be consecutive outings. 

Here are the leverage events of interest from Monday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Boston Red Sox –Taking over at the top of the tenth, Jordan Hicks suffered his sixth loss without allowing a hit. He walked Otto Kemp leading off the inning, intentionally walked Max Kepler, then Edmundo Sosa reached on catcher’s interference, plating the walk-off run. Hicks threw 10 pitches, three for strikes, which remains less than optimal.

  • Garrett Whitlock fired a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out the side against the Phillies’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket.
  • Aroldis Chapman did the heavy lifting in the eighth, facing 9-1-2-3 hitters, retiring Kyle Schwarber (flyout) and Bryce Harper (strikeout). He did give up a hit in a scoreless appearance, throwing 23 pitches (69.6 Strike%) with four whiffs (17.4 SwStr%). This extended his scoreless streak to 12 games, spanning 11.2 innings with a minuscule 0.427 WHIP while recording 22 strikeouts versus one walk (52.5 K-BB%).

Updated Hierarchy: Aroldis Chapman | Garrett Whitlock | Jordan Hicks

Houston Astros – Battling his command after an extended outing on Saturday, Josh Hader held on for his 26th save despite issuing two walks while closing out a three-run win in Arizona. He threw 18 pitches (38.9 Strike%) without a whiff.

This represents only the fifth time out of 42 appearances this year he has not produced a whiff. When he was with Milwaukee, if he logged two innings, he received a minimum of two days off after. This usage pattern may feel required by his manager, but it’s a risky move. He should consider getting an extra rest day, but with no breaks this week, it may not be feasible.

  • Steven Okert notched his sixth hold, navigating around a hit and two walks for a scoreless eighth.
  • Bennett Sousa tossed 1.1 scoreless frames, walking and striking out one for his sixth hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bennett Sousa

Los Angeles Dodgers – Forced into action with two runners on and one out at the top of the ninth, Kirby Yates finished a walk after inheriting a full count against Ryan Jeffers (charged to Scott), allowed Kody Clemens’ sacrifice fly, and a game-ending flyout by Carlos Correa, caught by James Outman just above the centerfield wall, resulting in his third save. He threw nine pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%) while recording two outs.

Tanner Scott left his outing early. He entered at the top of the eighth with two runners on, and stranded both on Harrison Bader’s lineout to third base. Returning for the ninth, he walked Byron Buxton, retired Willi Castro on a flyout, and hit Brooks Lee with a pitch before spiking a 2-2 pitch against Ryan Jeffers and leaving with the trainer. He will undergo an MRI, and his status will be determined following that. Scott was credited with his eighth hold.

  • Dustin May recorded his sixth win, and first as the “bulk follower,” tossing 4.2 scoreless frames while giving up five hits and three walks with four strikeouts.

New York Mets – Nailing down his 20th save, and capping his team’s comeback rally, Edwin Díaz fired a clean top of the ninth, striking out the side against the Angels’ 2-3-4 hitters. He threw 14 pitches (64.3 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (35.7 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to 14 games, in which he has converted seven of eight save opportunities with a 0.714 WHIP while recording 20 strikeouts versus three walks (33.3 K-BB%).

  • Brooks Raley collected his first win, giving up a hit during a scoreless top of the eighth, ahead of his team’s two-run rally at the bottom of the frame.
  • Huascar Brazobán stranded two runners and retired both batters in the seventh, one via strikeout.

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Reed Garrett | Huascar Brazobán

Philadelphia Phillies – After stranding the “place” runner at the top of the tenth with a clean outing and two strikeouts, Max Lazar collected his first win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the frame. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (40 SwStr%) against Boston’s 1-2-3 lineup pocket.

  • Matt Strahm tossed a scoreless ninth, walking and striking out one, keeping the game tied.
  • Orion Kerkering worked a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit and striking out one.
  • Tanner Banks allowed a walk and recorded two strikeotus in a scoreless seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: *Matt Strahm | *Orion Kerkering | Tanner Banks

*= “floating closer” concept

Pittsburgh Pirates – Completing a combined shutout, David Bednar worked around a one-out single by Dillon Dingler with a groundout and a game-ending strikeout, notching his 14th save. He threw nine pitches (88.9 Strike%) without a whiff.

His scoreless streak has reached ten games, during which he has converted a win and four saves while posting a 0.90 WHIP with 12 strikeouts against three walks (23.7 K-BB%) through ten innings.

  • Dennis Santana recorded his 11th hold, yielding a hit and striking out three at the top of the eighth.
  • Braxton Ashcraft secured his third hold, walking and striking out one in the seventh. 

Hierarchy Remains: David Bednar | Dennis Santana | Caleb Ferguson

San Diego Padres – Securing his MLB-leading 29th save, Robert Suarez navigated around Liam Hicks’ two-out single with a game-ending groundout, preserving a one-run lead. He threw 10 pitches (90 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (20 SwStr%) while recording one strikeout.

He has converted all six save chances in July and has been scoreless in his last six appearances, posting a 0.33 WHIP with seven strikeouts (35 K-BB%) across six innings.

  • Jason Adam tossed a scoreless eighth while giving up a hit for his 24th hold.
  • Jeremiah Estrada fired a clean seventh, striking out one, and recorded his 21st hold.
  • Adrian Morejon collected his MLB-leading eighth win as a reliever, taking over at the bottom of the fifth and logging 1.2 clean frames while striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

Toronto Blue Jays – Locking down his 24th save, Jeff Hoffman fired a clean top of the ninth while striking out the side, preserving a three-run win over the Yankees. He threw 16 pitches (75 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%).

He’s converted his last seven save chances since June 29, posting a 0.889 WHIP with 15 strikeouts against one walk (41.2 K-BB%) through his last nine innings.

  • Yariel Rodríguez notched his 11th hold, stranding two runners and retiring both batters at the top of the eighth.
  • Brendon Little allowed a hit and a walk while striking out one during one-third of the eighth, getting credit for his 20th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Yariel Rodríguez | Chad Green

Washington Nationals – Closing out an eventual win, Kyle Finnegan allowed two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one at the top of the ninth. He’s allowed multiple runs in three of his last four appearances (10 earned runs across 2.2 innings). In this outing, his pitch illustrator:

And his results:

After this appearance, he has a 1.32 WHIP with a 4.10 SIERA. Hope lies in his 3.61 xERA, but a change in scenery will make him a set-up reliever, not a closer. One wonders if his recent struggles are tied to the uncertainty created by the looming trade deadline.

  • Jose A. Ferrer issued a walk during a scoreless eighth.
  • Luis García retired the side in the seventh.
  • Andrew Chafin was awarded his first win, working a clean sixth.
  • Cole Henry navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out one at the top of the fifth, getting credit for his third hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Kyle Finnegan  | Luis García | Jose A. Ferrer 

Quick Hits

  • Chicago Cubs: Cubs: Not all “bulk followers” fare well. Ben Brown suffered his seventh loss, allowing seven hits and seven runs (six earned) while striking out four during four innings of relief.
  • Chicago White Sox: Pressed into action at the bottom of the fifth, Tyler Gilbert stranded a runner and recorded two outs, both via strikeout while issuing a walk. He was awarded his fourth win as a result.
  • Colorado Rockies: During an eventual loss, Tyler Kinley stranded all three inherited runners at the top of the seventh, and retired all five batters, three via strikeout, on 18 pitches (72.2 Strike%) with three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). Jake Bird allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless top of the ninth.
  • Detroit Tigers: During a shutout loss, Tommy Kahnle fired a clean bottom of the eighth and recorded two strikeouts in a much-needed clean appearance, his first since July 8.
  • Los Angeles Angels: Entering at the bottom of the seventh, Reid Detmers suffered his third blown save, giving up a hit and an earned run while striking out one. In the eighth, José Fermin gave up a hit, two unearned runs, and a walk while recording one out, resulting in his first loss. Brock Burke let both inherited runners score and retired two batters.
  • San Francisco Giants: Appearing during a loss, Camilo Doval issued two walks and recorded two strikeouts at the bottom of the eighth. He faced Atlanta’s 9-1-2-3-4 batters, throwing 26 pitches (57.7 Strike%) and inducing three whiffs (11.5 SwStr%). The good news is that he has been scoreless in his last four outings. However, he’s allowed five walks versus four strikeouts in them (-6.2 K-BB%).
  • St. Louis Cardinals: Wrapping up a four-run win in Coors, Phil Maton allowed a walk and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless bottom of the ninth. JoJo Romero tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and striking out two.

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Monkey Bytes | July 21

Before covering Sunday’s results, the Phillies have made their first move to strengthen their bullpen ahead of the trade deadline, but not on a trade:

Last year, David Robertson went 3-4 with two saves and 34 holds with Texas, posting a 3.00 ERA, a 2.69 SIERA, a 3.19 xERA, and a 1.11 WHIP with 99 strikeouts against 27 walks (24.3 K-BB%) across 72 innings. Here are his splits by pitch:

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

After throwing for teams, the Phillies addressed a clear need, but his role will be determined. As a point of reference, he has been better versus left-handed hitters not only last year, but in his career:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/AAh2C/1/

Any reliever offering swing-and-miss potential while being durable will prove valuable. However, his fantasy status will be determined by how the leverage ladder is structured after the trade deadline has passed. Those in leagues with SOLDS or holds as a separate category should be very interested in Robertson. In saves only leagues, he may be part of shared saves or a primary set-up reliever, dependent on who else Philadelphia acquires. Once a timeline for his arrival gets shared, he can enter the hierarchy upon activation, but temper expectations for now. It’s a terrific addition at minimal risk for the Phillies, but time will tell how he’s deployed in the team’s “floating closer” concept.

As for Sunday’s slate, relievers only recorded three wins, with two accompanied by a blown save designation (Edwin Díaz and Tyler Holton). Relief pitchers converted eight saves while suffering four losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BBBF
Carlos Estévez26580%00:02
Félix Bautista193452.911.82:37
Will Vest16988.922.22:04
Devin Williams141872.29.11:04
Anthony DeSclafani23863.218.44:012
Yariel Rodríguez2742.900:03
Ryne Stanek22157.114.30:04
Abner Uribe22360.98.70:17

There was a one-out save (Estévez) and a three-inning save (DeSclafani), while two had traffic-infused appearances but eventually held on (Bautista and Uribe).

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for July 22

  • Luke Weaver (NYY): Williams has pitched in consecutive contests. 
  • Seranthony Domínguez (BAL): Bautista labored through a 34-pitch outing on Sunday and should be unavailable in tonight’s game. 
  • Bennett Sousa (HOU): If Hader needs an extra day of rest after throwing 35 pitches during a two-inning outing on Saturday, plus Abreu has appeared in back-to-back games. 

Vulture Save Stashes for July 23

  • Ryne Stanek (NYM): If Díaz pitches tonight, it’s consecutive appearances. 

Here are the leverage events of interest from Sunday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Arizona Diamondbacks – Entering at the top of the seventh, Anthony DeSclafani recorded his second save, logging three innings, allowing four hits and an earned run while striking out four. He threw 38 pitches (63.2 Strike%) and produced seven whiffs (18.4 SwStr%).

Since June 23, he has made five multi-inning appearances, posting a loss and two saves while throwing 15 innings with a 1.00 WHIP and 18 strikeouts versus four walks (23.3 K-BB%).

Adjusted Hierarchy: *Kevin Ginkel | *Kendall Graveman | *Kyle Backhus

*= closer-by-committee

Baltimore Orioles – Working into and then out of trouble, Félix Bautista struggled with his command while working with reduced velocity in Tampa Bay. He took over with a three-run lead and issued Danny Jansen a lead-off walk, recorded a strikeout, then gave up an RBI single. After striking out Chandler Simpson, Ha-Seong Kim, and Yandy Díaz walked to load the bases before a game-ending strikeout on a 3-2 pitch against Junior Caminero resulted in Bautista’s 19th save. He threw a season-high 34 pitches (52.9 Strike%) and induced four whiffs (11.8 SwStr%) while issuing three walks versus two strikeouts. First, his illustrator:

And his results:

His 95.8 miles per hour average with his four-seam fastball represents his second-lowest game average since May 24 (95.7 miles per hour).

  • Andrew Kittredge allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless bottom of the eighth for his sixth hold.
  • Yennier Cano retired the side and struck out one in the seventh, securing his 13th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Félix Bautista | Seranthony Domínguez | Gregory Soto

Detroit Tigers – Locking down his 16th save, Will Vest took over at the bottom of the eighth, striking out Wyatt Langford and returning for the ninth, retiring the side, including one more strikeout. He faced the Rangers’ first four hitters in the lineup and retired them on nine pitches (88.9 Strike%) with two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts.

This snapped his team’s six-game losing streak and marked Vest’s first save since July 8. He has been scoreless in eight of his last nine appearances.

  • Tyler Holton let one of two inherited runners score on a wild pitch at the bottom of the seventh, resulting in his fourth blown save. However, he also collected his fifth win, recording two strikeouts of three batters faced between the seventh and eighth innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Will Vest | Tommy Kahnle | Tyler Holton

Kansas City Royals – Pressed into action with a runner on base, a three-run lead, and two outs at the bottom of the ninth, Carlos Estévez allowed a single by Otto Lopez, then retired Liam Hicks on a game-ending flyout for his 26th save. He threw five pitches (80 Strike%) without a whiff.

This marks his first save since July 9, but he has not had a clean appearance since July 6 and owns a 1.50 WHIP with five strikeouts versus one walk (10.8 K-BB%) through eight innings through nine appearances this month.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber

Milwaukee Brewers – Hanging one for his second save, Abner Uribe put his fantasy players through a white-knuckle ride at the bottom of the ninth. He allowed a one-out single by Tommy Edman, who was forced out on a fielder’s choice by Will Smith, followed by Andy Pages’ single, and a walk to Michael Conforto, loading the bases with two outs. Uribe coaxed a ground ball against Dalton Rushing, but it was an infield single, scoring a run before a game-ending bases-loaded lineout by Mookie Betts, resulting in his second save. He gave up three hits, an earned run, and a walk while throwing 23 pitches (60.9 Strike%) with two whiffs. His illustrator:

  • Nick Mears stranded a runner and retired his only batter in the eighth for his 13th hold.
  • DL Hall issued a walk during two-thirds scoreless in the eighth, securing his first hold.
  • Grant Anderson fired a clean seventh, recording his fourth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

New York Mets – Taking over at the top of the ninth with a one-run margin, Ryne Stanek worked around Jake Fraley’s one-out single for a scoreless ninth, notching his second save. He threw 21 pitches (57.1 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (14.3 SwStr%). It’s his first save since April 7.

Edwin Díaz was summoned at the top of the eighth with a runner on and two outs. However, he struggled with his command, issuing Elly De La Cruz a walk, then allowing Austin Hays’ single, followed by an RBI Spencer Steer hit-by-pitch, before recording an inning-ending strikeout of Tyler Stephenson. Díaz suffered his second blown save as a result, but his teammates rallied at the bottom of the inning, awarding him with his fifth win. He threw 16 pitches (37.5 Strike%) and only induced one whiff. His illustrator:

And results:

  • Reed Garrett made the mess, giving up a walk and an earned run while striking out one, throwing five of his 16 pitches for strikes while getting credited with his 17th hold.
  • Huascar Brazobán tossed a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one for his 11th hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Reed Garrett | Huascar Brazobán

New York Yankees – For a second straight day, Devin Williams allowed a run against Atlanta, giving up Ronald Acuña’s solo home run before retiring the next three batters, one via strikeout, while recording his 14th save. He threw 18 pitches (72.2 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (9.1 SwStr%). His illustrator from this outing:

And his results, showing Acuña Jr. put a good swing on an outside pitch:

The good news is that he has converted all ten save chances since May 27 while posting a 0.765 WHIP with 23 strikeouts against three walks (28.6 K-BB%) across 18.1 innings.

  • Tim Hill allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless eighth for his tenth hold.
  • Ian Hamilton fired a clean seventh, striking out one for his fourth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Devin Williams | Luke Weaver | Tim Hill

Toronto Blue Jays – Filling in capably while securing his second save, Yariel Rodríguez retired the side against the Giants’ 8-9-1 hitters. He threw seven pitches (42.9 Strike%) without a whiff.

It’s his first save since June 11, and this outing extended his scoreless streak to seven games, during which he has a 1.039 WHIP with 10 strikeouts against three walks (23.3 K-BB%) through 7.2 innings.

  • Tommy Nance notched his first hold, logging 1.2 clean frames and striking out three.
  • Justin Bruihl gave up two hits and let one of two inherited runners score, but was credited with his third hold after retiring two batters across the sixth and seventh innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Yariel Rodríguez | Chad Green

Quick Hits

  • Boston Red Sox: Finishing a five-run lead over the Cubs, Jorge Alcala retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the bottom of the ninth. Jordan Hicks fired a clean eighth, striking out one on 14 pitches (57.1 Strike%) with four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). Garrett Whitlock notched his 12th hold, working a clean seventh and striking out one.
  • Chicago Cubs: Ryan Pressly issued a walk and gave up Wilyer Abreu’s go-ahead two-run home run, resulting in his third loss and a second blown save.
  • Chicago White Sox: In his team’s third lopsided win this weekend, Grant Taylor tossed a scoreless bottom of the seventh despite issuing Nick Gonzales a lead-off walk by striking out the next three Pirates. He threw 23 pitches (56.5 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (26.1 SwStr%).
  • Cincinnati Reds: Called upon with two runners on and one out at the bottom of the eighth, Tony Santillan gave up an RBI fielder’s choice groundout, then retired the next two batters. Brent Suter suffered his first loss, giving up a hit, an earned run, and two walks while striking out one over 1.1 innings. 
  • Houston Astros: Kaleb Ort collected his second win, tossing 1.2 scoreless innings, yielding a hit and striking out three.
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: Lou Trivino was tagged with his first loss and a second blown save, giving up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one. Blake Treinein fired a clean inning and recorded two strikeouts at Triple-A; his last hurdle will be pitching on consecutive days, but he could be activated as soon as this weekend.
  • Minnesota Twins: With multiple scouts in attendance, Jhoan Durán tossed a scoreless bottom of the ninth, preserving a six-run win in Coors. He threw 16 pitches (68.8 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (25 SwStr%), allowing a hit and striking out one. Griffin Jax fired a clean bottom of the eighth, striking out one on eight pitches (75 Strike%) without a whiff.
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Appearing while his team was swept this weekend, David Bednar retired the side on 14 pitches (64.3 Strike%) without a whiff at the top of the ninth. He extended his scoreless streak to nine games, during which he has posted a 0.889 WHIP with 11 strikeouts against three walks (23.6 K-BB%) across nine innings.
  • San Francisco Giants: In an eventual loss, Joey Lucchesi fired two clean frames and recorded three strikeouts. He threw 23 pitches (78.3 Strike%) and generated seven whiffs (30.4 SwStr%). This moved his scoreless streak to eight games, spanning ten innings, during which he has posted a 0.70 WHIP with 12 strikeouts versus two walks (27 K-BB%).
  • St. Louis Cardinals: During an eventual loss, Ryan Helsley tossed a scoreless bottom of the eighth, yielding a hit and striking out one on 15 pitches (66.7 Strike percentage) with five whiffs (33.3 swinging strike percentage).
  • Tampa Bay Rays: Working against his former teammates, Bryan Baker allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts during a scoreless top of the ninth in an eventual loss. He threw 25 pitches (72 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (20 SwStr%). 
  • Texas Rangers: Pressed into action at the top of the eighth, Caleb Boushley logged 1.1 scoreless frames, walking one and striking out two while stranding both inherited runners. Chris Martin suffered his sixth loss, giving up three hits, including Matt Vierling’s go-ahead RBI single at the top of the eighth during his two-thirds of the inning. He departed with a left calf strain.

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This year, the daily emails will change. Those interested in daily free updates with links should subscribe to our page at Substack. Subscribers to the former site will not transfer over; readers must register using the new link.

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Monkey Bytes | July 20

A crazy day ended with an extra-inning contest in Seattle’s walk-off win over the Astros. Relievers finished with six wins, though one was accompanied by a blown save (Ronny Henriquez), and six saves while getting tagged with six losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BBBF
Jeff Hoffman231181.89.11:03
Trevor Megill231154.518.20:03
Emilio Pagán212657.77.71:15
Kyle Finnegan191080202:03
Pete Fairbanks162766.714.81:05
Anthony Bender3966.701:03

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for July 21

  • Yariel Rodríguez (TOR): Hoffman has appeared in consecutive contests. 
  • Bryan Abreu (HOU): Hader logged two innings and threw 35 pitches last night. 
  • Abner Uribe (MIL): Megill has worked in both games since the All-Star break. 
  • Calvin Faucher (MIA): Henriquez and Bender have pitched in back-to-back games.

Here are the leverage events of interest from Saturday.

Closer ClliffsNotes

Atlanta Braves – Losing his 15-game scoreless streak, and a tough contest against the Yankees, Raisel Iglesias struggled after taking over a tied game at the top of the ninth. He allowed a lead-off double by Paul Goldschmidt, retired Cody Bellinger, intentionally walked Aaron Judge, but after walking Giancarlo Stanton to load the bases, Iglesias gave up Trent Grisham’s go-ahead grand slam, resulting in his sixth loss. As his illustrator will show, he left too many pitches over the heart of the strike zone:

With the following results:

Of his eight home runs this year, six have been against his slider. During his 15-game scoreless streak, he only used this pitch 12.4 percent of 170 pitches, but this hanger cost his team and hurt his trade stock:

  • Dylan Lee served up Anthony Volpe’s game-tying solo shot in the eighth, getting tagged with his fifth blown save. He has allowed at least a run in three of his last four outings.
  • Pierce Johnson gave up Bellinger’s solo home run in the seventh and recorded a strikeout for his eighth hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Raisel Iglesias | Dylan Lee | Pierce Johnson

Cincinnati Reds – Navigating around traffic, Emilio Pagán recorded his 21st save, finishing a three-run win over the Mets. His outing began with Luis Torrens’ lead-off single, followed by Brandon Nimmo’s walk. Pagán bore down, inducing a fielder’s choice groundout against Francisco Lindor, striking out Juan Soto, and getting a game-ending flyout by Pete Alonso. He threw 26 pitches (57.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (7.7 SwStr%).

  • Graham Ashcraft notched his 11th hold with a clean bottom of the eighth.
  • Tony Santillan struck out the side in the seventh, securing his 20th hold.
  • Scott Barlow stranded two runners while retiring two batters, walking and striking out one in the sixth for his 11th hold.
  • Taylor Rogers issued two walks and recorded a strikeout in one-third of the sixth, getting credited with his ninth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Houston Astros – Called upon at the bottom of the 11th during a tied game, Héctor Neris gave up a sacrifice bunt, followed by an RBI walk-off single by Cole Young, handing him his second loss.

Josh Hader logged two innings, giving up an unearned run and two walks while striking out one on 35 pitches (71.4 Strike%) with seven whiffs (20 SwStr%). This marked his third appearance of two innings this season, and he has recorded four or more outs in three of his last four appearances since July 5.

  • Bryan Abreu suffered his fourth blown save, allowing a hit and an earned run while striking out two. The game-tying run scored on a wild pitch.
  • Bryan King tossed a clean eighth, securing his 20th hold.
  • Bennett Sousa notched his fifth hold, walking and striking out one during a scoreless sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bennett Sousa

Miami Marlins – Capping his team’s two-run rally at the bottom of the eighth, Anthony Bender retired the side and recorded a strikeout against the Royals’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket for his third save. He threw nine pitches (66.7 Strike%) without a whiff.

This outing extended his scoreless streak to 11 games, during which he has a win, two saves, and five holds while posting a 0.619 WHIP with 10 strikeouts versus four walks (15 K-BB%) across 11.1 innings.

  • Ronny Henriquez suffered his third blown save, giving up a game-tying solo home run by Salvador Perez and issuing two walks while striking out one at the top of the eighth. He also collected his sixth win, courtesy of his teammates at the bottom of the inning.
  • Tyler Phillips issued a walk during a scoreless seventh, securing his third hold. 

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

*= highest-leverage reliever in a closer-by-committee

Milwaukee Brewers – Sealing a one-run win while nailing down his 23rd save, Trevor Megill retired the Dodgers’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket in order on 11 pitches (54.5 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).

He extended his scoreless streak to six games in July, during which he has a win and converted all five save chances, posting a 0.33 WHIP with eight strikeouts versus one walk (35 K-BB%) through six innings.

  • Jared Koenig allowed two solo home runs and recorded a strikeout, getting credit for his 19th hold.
  • Nick Mears retired both batters via strikeout at the bottom of the seventh for his 12th hold.
  • Aaron Ashby logged 1.1 innings, giving up three hits and an earned run while striking out two for his first hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

New York Yankees – Handed a four-run lead, Devin Williams opened the bottom of the ninth with a lead-off walk to Sean Murphy, allowed a one-out double by Nacho Alvaraez Jr., and an RBI fielder’s choice groundout by Michael Harris II before a game-ending strikeout of Marcell Ozuna, snapping his four-game scoreless streak in a non-save appearance.

Luke Weaver collected his second win, logging 1.2 scoreless frames, giving up a walk and striking out two. He took over at the bottom of the seventh and stranded all three inherited runners with a strikeout and an inning-ending flyout.

Hierarchy Remains: Devin Williams | Luke Weaver | Tim Hill

Philadelphia Phillies – Finishing a four-run win over the Angels, Matt Strahm retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the top of the ninth. He threw 12 pitches (58.3 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He has been scoreless in his last seven appearances, converting both save chances while posting a 0.857 WHIP with eight strikeouts versus four walks in seven innings.

  • Tanner Banks notched his third hold, firing a clean eighth and striking out one.
  • Orion Kerkering allowed two hits and an earned run while recording three strikeouts in the seventh for his 15th hold.
  • Seth Johnson collected his first win despite giving up a solo home run (Yoan Moncada) and striking out two at the top of the sixth, ahead of his team’s five-run rally at the bottom of the frame.

Updated Hierarchy: *Matt Strahm | *Orion Kerkering | Tanner Banks

*= “floating closer” concept

Seattle Mariners – After retiring the side and stranding the “place” runner while recording two strikeouts at the top of the 11th, Eduard Bazardo collected his fourth win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning.

  • Matt Brash allowed a lead-off single, followed by a sacrifice bunt, and a sacrifice fly scoring the “place” runner in the tenth, along with two walks (one intentional).
  • Andrés Muñoz tossed a scoreless ninth, walking one and striking out two on 21 pitches (52.3 Strike%) with four whiffs (19 SwStr%).
  • Trent Thornton worked a clean eighth, striking out one.
  • Casey Legumina fired a clean seventh, striking out the side.
  • Gabe Speier let both inherited runners score, giving up two hits and recording two outs, resulting in his fifth blown save during the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

Tampa Bay Rays – Staked with a two-run lead, Pete Fairbanks secured his 16th save, but it was a white-knuckle ride. He allowed Tyler O’Neill’s one-out double and Cedric Mullins’ two-out pinch-hit RBI single before a game-ending flyout by Jackson Holliday at the wall in center. Fairbanks threw 27 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced four whiffs (14.8 SwStr%) while allowing two hits and an earned run while striking out one. His pitch illustrator:

And his results:

He has allowed at least a run in consecutive appearances.

  • Edwin Uceta collected his sixth win, logging two scoreless frames. He scattered two hits and recorded three strikeouts.

Hierarchy Remains: Pete Fairbanks | Bryan Baker | Garrett Cleavinger

Toronto Blue Jays – Securing his 23rd save, Jeff Hoffman worked around Heliot Ramos’ lead-off single with a strikeout of Rafael Devers, followed by a game-ending double play groundout, preserving a three-run win over the Giants. He threw 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

He has been scoreless in eight of his last nine appearances since June 25, converting all six saves while posting a 1.00 WHIP with 13 strikeouts versus one walk (34.2 K-BB%) across nine innings.

  • Brendon Little notched his 19th hold, retiring the side and striking out one against the 7-8-9 lineup pocket.
  • Chad Green gave up Willy Adames’ solo home run in the seventh but recorded his seventh hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Yariel Rodríguez | Chad Green

Washington Nationals – Putting yesterday’s rough outing behind him, Kyle Finnegan bounced back with a clean top of the ninth, preserving a two-run win over the Padres while recording his 19th save, and first since June 6. He threw 10 pitches (80 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (20 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts.

  • Jose A. Ferrer notched his 18th hold after taking over with a runner on and no outs at the top of the eighth. His first batter faced reached via a sacrifice bunt, putting runners on second and third following a throwing error. However, he struck out Manny Machado, cut down Fernando Tatis Jr. trying to score on a fielder’s choice grounder, and retired Xander Bogaerts on an inning-ending lineout.
  • Luis García allowed a hit during a scoreless seventh and walked Tatis Jr. in the eighth before being removed, recording his third hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Kyle Finnegan  | Luis García | Jose A. Ferrer 

Quick Hits

  • Baltimore Orioles: Summoned with a one-run lead at the bottom of the eighth, Seranthony Domínguez allowed Ha-Seong Kim’s lead-off single, followed by a stolen base and a lineout, which advanced him to third ahead of Chandler Simpson’s game-tying RBI single. With one out, he stole second, then Domínguez walked the next two hitters, then was replaced by Gregory Soto. He gave up Jonathan Aranda’s fielder’s choice groundout scoring two runs (one earned) before recording two outs. Domínguez was tagged with his third loss and a third blown save as a result.
  • Chicago White Sox: Tyler Gilbert stranded a runner, walking and striking out one during two-thirds of the fifth. He was awarded his third win after his teammates scored six runs at the top of the sixth.
  • Kansas City Royals: Entering a tied game at the bottom of the eighth, Lucas Erceg struggled out of the gate, issuing a lead-off walk to the ninth batter, giving up a double by Xavier Edwards, and loading the bases with an intentional walk (Jesús Sánchez). Things did not work out as Otto Lopez doubled in two runs. Erceg finished with two hits, two earned runs, and three walks (two intentional) while striking out one, resulting in his third loss.
  • Los Angeles Angels: As the first reliever out of the bullpen, Sam Bachman suffered his third loss, while getting credit for his second hold, giving up a hit, three earned runs, a hit batter, and a walk while striking out one during one-third of the sixth. José Fermin was tagged with his first blown save, letting all three inherited runners score on Kyle Schwarber’s go-ahead grand slam.
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: Appearing during a loss, Tanner Scott worked a scoreless top of the ninth. He issued a walk and recorded a strikeout, throwing 12 pitches (58.3 Strike%) with one whiff.
  • New York Mets: Making his season debut, Brooks Raley fired a clean top of the seventh and recorded two strikeouts against the Reds’ top of the lineup. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff.
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Taking over with a two-run lead at the top of the sixth, Caleb Ferguson allowed four hits and four earned runs while recording one out, resulting in his second loss and a fourth blown save. Isaac Mattson could not stem the tide, letting all three inherited runners score on Mike Tauchman’s bases-emptying double.
  • San Francisco Giants: In an eventual loss, Randy Rodríguez tossed a scoreless bottom of the seventh, allowing a hit and striking out one against Toronto’s 3-4-5-6 hitters. He has been scoreless in 12 of his last 13 since June 17.
  • The Athletics: Closing out a six-run win, Justin Sterner issued a walk and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless bottom of the ninth in Cleveland. Jack Perkins logged three scoreless frames, walking one and striking out three for his first hold.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

This year, the daily emails will change. Those interested in daily free updates with links should subscribe to our page at Substack. Subscribers to the former site will not transfer over; readers must register using the new link.

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Statistical Credits:

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BrooksBaseball.net

Monkey Bytes | July 19

A full slate Friday welcomed us back from the All-Star break, though there were some mixed results. Relievers recorded four wins and converted six saves while suffering five losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BBBF
Trevor Megill22771.400:03
Emmanuel Clase211668.8252:03
Kenley Jansen17771.400:03
Daniel Palencia13757.100:03
Seth Halvorsen91770.617.62:04
Robert Garcia71080200:04

Three Takeaways

(1) Finnegan implodes, again: Taking over a tied game at the top of the ninth, Kyle Finnegan turned in another rough outing. He allowed a lead-off single, followed by a hit-and-run single, putting runners at the corners, and recorded his only out on a sacrifice squeeze bunt, scoring the go-ahead run. However, things spiraled further when Fernando Tatis Jr. singled, and a walk loaded the bases ahead of Manny Machado’s grand slam. His illustrator from this outing:

He threw 12 strikes of his 20 pitches (60 Strike%), but his results tell the story:

Finnegan’s final line: four hits, five earned runs, and a walk during one-third of an inning, putting his WHIP at 1.31 for the season. To his credit, he acknowledged the rough patch and did not make a lack of work an excuse in the game recap by Byron Kerr for MLB.com:

He has only logged four appearances since July 4 and last recorded a save on June 6. It’s easy to put Finnegan on the “hot seat,” and it’s warranted. However, with an interim manager, a reliever who the team needs to build value before the trade deadline, and a weak leverage ladder, it does not yield immediate options for alternate save options. If the team gives Finnegan a “break,” it may be Luis García or a match-up-based approach. However, he’s not a priority add at this point.

Updated Hierarchy: Kyle Finnegan  | Luis García | Jose A. Ferrer 

(2) Estévez suffers another blown save: Handed a two-run lead at the bottom of the tenth, Carlos Estévez suffered his third loss and sixth blown save. After retiring Otto Lopez on a lineout, Estévez allowed an RBI single by Agustín Ramírez, scoring the “place” runner, followed by Kyle Stowers’ walk-off, two-RBI home run. First, his illustrator:

As one can surmise, this pitch placement did not end well:

This marks consecutive games giving up multiple runs, and he has not converted a save in his last three appearances. The good news is that he has recorded 25 saves this season. However, as this chart illustrates, his contact and whiff trends are concerning:

Compared with last year, his contact percentage allowed is up 8.8 percent, his Z-Contact (in the strike zone) has increased by 10.3 percent, and his swinging strike rate has declined by 5.1 percent. This creates a range of 3.84 xERA and 4.43 SIERA versus his current 2.76 ERA, which means more migration toward the mean may be in the offing. His name has surfaced in recent trade discussions, but he’s walking a fine line while none of his pitches produce a double-digit swinging strike percentage.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber

(3) Raisel flying below the radar: It’s strange reading articles about the trade deadline and few mention Raisel Iglesias as a potential target for contending teams. He’s pitching on an expiring contract, and Atlanta has playoff odds of less than ten percent. Last night, he retired the side and recorded a strikeout against the Yankees’ 8-9-1 hitters. He threw 12 pitches (83.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Since June 9, he has turned in 15 consecutive scoreless outings, posting a win, three saves, and two holds with a 0.511 WHIP while recording 18 strikeouts against one walk (35.4 K-BB%) through 13.2 innings. Iglesias has pitched as a closer and a set-up reliever, which should make him a more alluring target than he’s being treated as.

Hierarchy Remains: Raisel Iglesias | Dylan Lee | Daysbel Hernández

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Friday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Chicago Cubs –Recording the first save of the second half, Daniel Palencia navigated around Marcelo Mayer’s lead-off single by inducing Cedanne Rafaela’s double play groundout, followed by a game-ending flyout by Abraham Toro, closing out a three-run win over Boston. Palencia threw seven pitches (57.1 Strike%) without a whiff while securing his 13th save.

This extended his scoreless streak to eight games, during which he has converted all six save opportunities while posting a 0.411 WHIP with nine strikeouts versus one walk (30.8 K-BB%) across 7.1 innings.

  • Brad Keller retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the eighth, notching his 15th hold.
  • Drew Pomeranz stranded two runners while retiring his only batter in the seventh for his seventh hold.
  • Ryan Pressly gave up two hits and retired two batters during a scoreless seventh, getting credit for his seventh hold.
  • Caleb Thielbar fired a clean sixth, striking out two for his tenth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Ryan Pressly

Cleveland Guardians – Despite letting his only inherited runner score on Miguel Andujar’s RBI double, Emmanuel Clase recorded his 21st save, striking out the next two batters and preserving a two-run win over the A’s. He threw 16 pitches (68.8 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (25 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in his last five games, recording a win and three saves while posting a 0.351 WHIP with five strikeouts (26.3 K-BB%) through 5.2 innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Colorado Rockies – When we last saw Seth Halvorsen, he was shelled in Boston, allowing four hits, five earned runs, and a walk without retiring a batter on July 9. However, after a reset, he secured his ninth save, preserving a two-run lead and working around a two-out single for a scoreless ninth inning against the Twins. He threw 17 pitches (12 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts, including one against Byron Buxton.

Halvorsen has converted his last four save chances since June 22.

  • Victor Vodnik tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and striking out one for his fifth hold.
  • Jake Bird allowed three hits, including Willi Castro’s three-run home run, and struck out one in the seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: *Seth Halvorsen | *Victor Vodnik | Juan Mejia

*= closer-by-committee

Los Angeles Angels – Shutting the door on his 17th save, Kenley Jansen preserved a one-run win in Philadelphia, retiring the 7-8-9 lineup pocket in order on seven pitches (71.4 Strike%) without a whiff.

He has been scoreless through all seven appearances in July, recording two wins and two saves in his last four.

  • José Fermin gave up Bryce Harper’s solo home run and registered a strikeout during the eighth, getting credit for his third hold.
  • Reid Detmers notched his ninth hold, firing a clean seventh and striking out two.
  • Sam Bachman retired both batters at the bottom of the sixth and was credited with his second win. 

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Reid Detmers | José Fermin

Miami Marlins – Although he allowed two hits, including a two-RBI double by Adam Frazier, Lake Bachar was credited with his fifth win, following his team’s walk-off rally at the bottom of the tenth.

Calvin Faucher took over with a one-run lead at the top of the ninth against the Royals’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket, gave up John Rave’s game-tying solo home run, resulting in his fifth blown save.

  • Ronny Henriquez worked a scoreless eighth, walking and striking out one against the heart of the lineup. This extended his scoreless streak to seven games, during which he has a 0.286 WHIP with ten strikeouts against one walk (39.2 K-BB%) in seven innings.
  • Anthony Bender retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the seventh, securing his 16th hold.

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

*= highest-leverage reliever

Milwaukee Brewers – Locking down his 22nd save, Trevor Megill not only preserved a combined shutout but also set a career high during his first appearance after the All-Star break, surpassing the 21 saves he recorded last season. He retired Tommy Edman, Shohei Ohtani, and Mookie Betts in order on seven pitches (71.4 Strike%) without a whiff.

Megill has been scoreless through five appearances this month, posting a win and converting all four save chances with a minuscule 0.40 WHIP while racking up eight strikeouts versus zero walks (47.1 K-BB%) across five innings.

  • Jared Koenig worked a clean eighth and notched his 18th hold.
  • Abner Uribe navigated around a lead-off walk to Freddie Freeman with a flyout and an inning-ending double play groundout for his MLB-leading 27th hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

San Diego Padres – Summoned with runners at the corners and two outs at the bottom of the eighth during a tied contest, Wandy Peralta stranded them by retiring Josh Bell on a botched stolen base attempt, ending the inning. After his teammates tacked on five runs at the top of the ninth, Peralta preserved his fourth win with a scoreless bottom of the ninth. He allowed a hit during 1.1 scoreless frames.

  • Jason Adam suffered his second blown save, giving up three hits, including CJ Abrams’ game-tying two-run home run, and a walk while striking out one over two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Jeremiah Estrada secured his 20th hold, yielding a hit and striking out one in a scoreless seventh.
  • Adrian Morejon stranded both inherited runners while retiring both batters, one via strikeout, at the bottom of the sixth for his 14th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

Texas Rangers – Working around a two-out single by Spencer Torkelson with a game-ending strikeout, Robert Garcia recorded his seventh save, first since June 24, and completed a combined shutout of the Tigers. He threw 10 pitches (80 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (20 SwStr%).

  • Chris Martin collected his first win, tossing a scoreless eighth, walking and striking out one.
  • Shawn Armstrong allowed a walk during 1.1 scoreless innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Garcia | Chris Martin | Shawn Armstrong

Quick Hits

  • Cincinnati Reds: Called upon with two runners on and two outs at the bottom of the ninth, Emilio Pagán allowed consecutive hits, including Luis Torrens’ RBI-single, scoring an inherited runner before inducing a game-ending flyout by Francisco Lindor with the bases loaded, preserving a four-run win over the Mets.
  • Detroit Tigers: Picking up where he left off at the end of the first half, Tommy Kahnle suffered his third loss, and second in as many appearances, giving up a one-out double, a two-out walk, and a go-ahead two-RBI double by Corey Seager. Kahnle has given up multiple runs in his last three contests and in five of his previous eight since June 28. 
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: Making his first appearance since July 9, Kirby Yates allowed Caleb Durbin’s solo home run at the top of the seventh during an eventual loss. He has allowed a run in three consecutive outings.
  • New York Mets: With a one-run lead at the top of the fifth, Alex Carrillo suffered his first loss. He served up two home runs in the fifth and another in the sixth before being removed. He finished with three hits, five earned runs, and two walks while striking out two during his 1.1 innings.
  • Philadelphia Phillies: Entering a tied game at the top of the seventh, Tanner Banks issued Nolan Schanuel a walk with one out and allowed Taylor Ward’s go-ahead two-run home run, resulting in his second loss.
  • Seattle Mariners: Pressed into action with two runners on and two outs at the top of the seventh, Gabe Speier retired Maruico Dubón via flyout for his 11th hold. Matt Brash gave up a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one in the eighth, securing his 11th hold. Eduard Bazardo finished the five-run win with a clean ninth.
  • Tampa Bay Rays: Logging two scoreless frames, Joe Boyle issued a walk and recorded two strikeouts on 26 pitches (57.7 Strike%) with four whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).
  • Toronto Blue Jays: Completing a combined shutout of the Giants, Jeff Hoffman fired a clean top of the ninth, striking out the side on 13 pitches (76.9 Strike%) and producing four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%).

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

This year, the daily emails will change. Those interested in daily free updates with links should subscribe to our page at Substack. Subscribers to the former site will not transfer over; readers must register using the new link.

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

Statistical Credits:

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Updated Closer Monkey Rankings | 7.18.2025

Recognizing that ranking relievers can become outdated within hours, Closer Monkey’s updated rankings incorporate in-season results with rest-of-season potential, yielding a number often worth debating. Each week, we are providing saves, SOLDS, and holds rankings. They are a combination of season-to-date, the last 14-day results, and rest-of-season projections, causing fluctuations in reliever valuation.

Since the start of May, some intriguing reliever results:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/FEZ9b/1/

As the second half begins, there are roughly 65 games left for each team. 

Updated Top 40 Relievers for Saves

1Josh Hader
2Edwin Díaz
3Devin Williams
4Aroldis Chapman
5Andrés Muñoz
6Jeff Hoffman
7Robert Suarez
8Will Vest
9Jhoan Durán
10Carlos Estévez
11Trevor Megill
12Emilio Pagán
13Emmanuel Clase
14Ryan Helsley
15Tanner Scott
16Félix Bautista
17Mason Miller
18Daniel Palencia
19Pete Fairbanks
20David Bednar
21Kenley Jansen
22Raisel Iglesias
23Ronny Henriquez
24Camilo Doval
25Matt Strahm
26Kyle Finnegan
27Robert Garcia
28Grant Taylor
29Kevin Ginkel
30Orion Kerkering
31Bryan Abreu
32Bennett Sousa
33Griffin Jax
34Randy Rodríguez
35Kirby Yates
36Jason Adam
37Victor Vodnik
38Matt Brash
39Seranthony Domínguez
40Alex Vesia

Save Stashes

  • Graham Ashcraft (CIN)
  • Abner Uribe (MIL)
  • Isaac Mattson (PIT)
  • Joe Jiménez (ATL)

Top 75 for SOLDS

RankReliever
1Josh Hader
2Bryan Abreu
3Edwin Díaz
4Aroldis Chapman
5Devin Williams
6Andrés Muñoz
7Jason Adam
8Tyler Rogers
9Abner Uribe
10Randy Rodríguez
11Jeff Hoffman
12Will Vest
13Emilio Pagán
14Carlos Estévez
15Trevor Megill
16Jhoan Durán
17Griffin Jax
18Tanner Scott
19Alex Vesia
20Cade Smith
21Robert Suarez
22Adrian Morejon
23Jeremiah Estrada
24Daniel Palencia
25Mason Miller
26Raisel Iglesias
27Matt Strahm
28Matt Brash
29David Bednar
30Félix Bautista
31Seranthony Domínguez
32Louis Varland
33Ryan Helsley
34Ronny Henriquez
35Pete Fairbanks
36Phil Maton
37Lucas Erceg
38Camilo Doval
39Kyle Finnegan
40Luke Weaver
41Bennett Sousa
42Tony Santillan
43Yariel Rodríguez
44Kirby Yates
45Jordan Hicks
46Orion Kerkering
47Bryan King
48Dennis Santana
49Brad Keller
50Kenley Jansen
51Dylan Lee
52Reid Detmers
53Grant Taylor
54Bryan Baker
55Garrett Whitlock
56Tommy Kahnle
57Reed Garrett
58Braydon Fisher
59Robert Garcia
60Gregory Soto
61Chris Martin
62Tyler Holton
63Garrett Cleavinger
64Huascar Brazobán
65Jared Koenig
66JoJo Romero
67Anthony Bender
68Hunter Gaddis
69Hoby Milner
70Caleb Thielbar
71Kevin Ginkel
72Daysbel Hernández
73Victor Vodnik
74Kyle Backhus
75Paul Sewald

The following teams have at least 50 wins and produce more than 1.6 SOLDS per win:

  • San Diego Padres: 52 wins, 1.90 SOLDS/win
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: 58 wins, 1.78 SOLDS/win
  • San Francisco Giants: 52 wins, 1.77 SOLDS/win
  • Houston Astros: 56 wins, 1.64 SOLDS/win
  • New York Mets: 55 wins, 1.64 SOLDS/win
  • Cincinnati Reds: 50 wins, 1.64 SOLDS/win
  • Milwaukee Brewers: 56 wins, 1.61 SOLDS/win

Top 50 for Holds

RankReliever
1Bryan Abreu
2Jason Adam
3Tyler Rogers
4Abner Uribe
5Randy Rodríguez
6Jeremiah Estrada
7Adrian Morejon
8Phil Maton
9Griffin Jax
10Cade Smith
11Alex Vesia
12Louis Varland
13Seranthony Domínguez
14Matt Brash
15Luke Weaver
16Reed Garrett
17Yariel Rodríguez
18Reid Detmers
19Lucas Erceg
20Bryan Baker
21Brad Keller
22Kirby Yates
23Garrett Whitlock
24Dylan Lee
25Tony Santillan
26Garrett Cleavinger
27Tim Hill
28Bryan King
29Gabe Speier
30Brendon Little
31Dennis Santana
32Gregory Soto
33Huascar Brazobán
34Tommy Kahnle
35Anthony Bender
36Scott Barlow
37Jared Koenig
38Hoby Milner
39Tyler Holton
40Edwin Uceta
41Chris Martin
42Daysbel Hernández
43Caleb Ferguson
44Joey Lucchesi
45Ben Casparius
46Jack Dreyer
47Kyle Backhus
48Justin Wilson
49Luis García
50Ryan Zeferjahn

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

This year, the daily emails will change. Those interested in daily free updates with links should subscribe to our page at Substack. Subscribers to the former site will not transfer over; readers must register using the new link.

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

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

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

BaseballSavant.com

BrooksBaseball.net