Closer Monkey

Monkey Bytes | July 14

With the conclusion of the first half, it’s time for fantasy managers to take a breath, relax, and refocus for the stretch run. It may be short-lived with the trade deadline on the horizon. During Sunday’s full slate, relievers recorded six wins, with one accompanied by a blown save (Carlos Estévez) and seven saves while suffering seven losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB	BF
Emilio Pagán	20	14	57.1	7.1	1:0	3
Ryan Helsley	19	25	64	12	1:1	5
Mason Miller	19	18	72.2	27.8	1:0	3
Aroldis Chapman	17	19	63.2	21.1	3:0	3
David Bednar	13	25	60	20	2:0	4
Daniel Palencia	12	14	71.4	14.3	2:0	3
Matt Strahm	6	16	43.8	0	0:2	5

Here are the leverage events of interest from Sunday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Boston Red Sox –Finishing the first half on a ten-game winning streak, Aroldis Chapman nailed down his 17th save, striking out the side against the Rays’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket. He threw 19 pitches (12 strikes – 63.2 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (21.1 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to 11 games, during which he has converted all six save chances while recording a 0.374 WHIP with 21 strikeouts versus one walk (55.5 K-BB%) across 10.2 innings.

Garrett Whitlock notched his 11th hold, working around two hits while striking out two in a scoreless top of the eighth.
Justin Wilson stranded a runner and retired both batters in the seventh for his 13th hold.

It’s curious Jordan Hicks has not appeared since July 11 and was not used during a leverage situation in this contest.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Jordan Hicks | Garrett Whitlock

Chicago Cubs –Shutting the door on his 12th save, Daniel Palencia retired the side and recorded two strikeouts against the Yankees’ 8-9-1 lineup pocket, throwing 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) while inducing two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).

After suffering a blown save in his first attempt on May 19, he has converted his last 11 saves while recording a 0.802 WHIP with 24 strikeouts against four walks (28.6 K-BB%) across 18.2 innings.

Drew Pomeranz fired a clean eighth, striking out one, and recorded his sixth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Ryan Pressly

Chicago White Sox – Tasked with the top of the tenth, Brandon Eisert allowed David Fry’s one-out single and Steven Kwan’s go-ahead sacrifice fly, resulting in his second loss.

Grant Taylor worked the eighth and ninth innings. In the eighth, he issued Kwan a one-out walk, followed by Nolan Jones’ single, and a José Ramírez sacrifice fly, then returned for the ninth and retired the side while striking out two. He finished his two innings with a hit, an earned run, and a walk with two strikeouts on 34 pitches (52.9 Strike%) with three whiffs. Will he continue being the HLR in the second half?

Dan Altavilla retired all four batters and three via strikeout between the sixth and seventh innings.

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

*= highest-leveraged reliever (Taylor)

Cincinnati Reds – Locking down his 20th save, Emilio Pagán retired the side and recorded one strikeout, preserving a two-run win over the Rockies. He threw 14 pitches (57.1 Strike%) and induced one whiff (7.1 SwStr%).

He finished the first half being scoreless in seven of his last eight outings, recording two wins and three saves while posting a 0.875 WHIP with eight strikeouts versus two walks (19.3 K-BB%) through eight innings.

Tony Santillan notched his 19th hold, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out two in the eighth.
Graham Ashcraft stranded a runner despite yielding a hit during two-thirds of the seventh, securing his tenth hold.
Scott Barlow worked a scoreless combined inning, walking and striking out one for his tenth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Cleveland Guardians – Entering a tied game at the bottom of the ninth, Emmanuel Clase retired the side. With a one-run lead, he returned for the tenth and once again, retired the side, earning his fifth win. He threw 26 pitches (69.2 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (23.1 SwStr%).

He concludes the first half on a modest four-game scoreless streak, during which he has this win and two saves. However, his current 1.22 at the break represents a career high through his first 43.1 innings this season.

Cade Smith allowed two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one at the bottom of the eighth, getting tagged with his second blown save.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Detroit Tigers – Another rough outing for Tommy Kahnle resulted in his second loss. He took over a tied game at the top of the ninth, and allowed two hits, both home runs, three earned runs, and a walk without recording an out. In his last two games, he gave up a combined six hits, seven earned runs, and two walks, without retiring a batter.

Will Vest suffered his fourth blown save, issuing consecutive walks against Julio Rodríguez and Cal Raleigh, followed by Randy Arozarena’s game-tying RBI double. Vest finished with a hit, an earned run, and three walks during his inning of work, bailed out by an inning-ending double play with the bases loaded.
Tyler Holton logged two innings, yielding two hits, including Mitch Garver’s solo home run, and recorded two strikeouts.

Hierarchy Remains: Will Vest | Tommy Kahnle | Tyler Holton

Los Angeles Dodgers – Pressed into action at the bottom of the tenth, Ben Casparius stranded two runners by inducing an inning-ending groundout. Returning for the 11th, he retired the side and recorded a strikeout while collecting his seventh win. He threw 18 pitches (61.1 Strike%) and recorded five whiffs (27.8 SwStr%).

Jack Dreyer issued an intentional walk and retired two outs during the bottom of the tenth.
Tanner Scott suffered his MLB-leading seventh blown save, giving up two hits, including Luis Matos’ game-tying two-run home run, and a walk during the bottom of the ninth. He ends the first half having allowed at least a run in three of his last four appearances.

Alex Vesia notched his 18th hold, striking out the side at the bottom of the eighth.

The biggest takeaway from this game, other than another blown save by Scott on a hanging slider, was Kirby Yates not being used. He last pitched on July 9 and has allowed at least a run in his previous two contests. With Blake Treinen trending toward a return after the All-Star break, this hierarchy may be changing soon.

Hierarchy Remains: Tanner Scott | Kirby Yates | Alex Vesia

*= closer-by-committee with a preferred save share (Scott)

Philadelphia Phillies – Called upon with a one-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, Matt Strahm began his outing by issuing a lead-off walk to Jake Cronenworth, followed by a sacrifice bunt. After inducing a pop-out, he issued Fernando Tatis Jr. an intentional walk before inducing a game-ending lineout by Luis Arraez, recording his sixth save. He threw 16 pitches (43.8 Strike%) without a whiff. He ends the first half on a six-game scoreless streak, converting both save chances with a 1.00 WHIP and seven strikeouts versus four walks.

Orion Kerkering notched his 14th hold, despite giving up a hit and a walk during two-thirds of the eighth. He has not recorded a save since June 19, a span of seven appearances.

Since June 1, Strahm has recorded four saves with two holds, while Kerkering has notched two saves with four holds. Will either be accruing saves after the trade deadline? Stay tuned.

Hierarchy Remains: *Matt Strahm | *Orion Kerkering | Jordan Romano

*= “floating closer” concept

Pittsburgh Pirates – Handed a one-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, David Bednar worked around Carlos Correa’s lead-off single with consecutive strikeouts, followed by a game-ending groundout, securing his 13th save. He threw 25 pitches (60 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (20 SwStr%).

Bednar was scoreless over his last eight appearances, recording a win and three saves while posting a 1.00 WHIP with 11 strikeouts against three walks (25.8 K-BB%) through eight innings.

Dennis Santana navigated around two hits for a scoreless eighth and collected his third win after his team’s rally at the top of the ninth.
Caleb Ferguson fired a clean seventh, striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: David Bednar | Dennis Santana | Caleb Ferguson

San Francisco Giants – Brought into a tied contest at the top of the 11th, Spencer Bivens allowed three hits, three runs (two earned), and a walk while striking out one, resulting in his third loss.

Joey Lucchesi retired the side at the top of the tenth on 12 pitches (58.3 Strike%) against the Dodgers’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket.
Camilo Doval issued Will Smith a lead-off walk, then recorded consecutive strikeouts, and an inning-ending Andy Pages’ flyout, throwing 19 pitches (14 strikes – 73.7 Strike%) with five whiffs (26.3 SwStr%).
Randy Rodríguez fired a clean eighth and recorded a strikeout.
Ryan Walker retired the side in the seventh, striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Camilo Doval | Randy Rodríguez | Tyler Rogers

St. Louis Cardinals – Protecting a one-run lead, Ryan Helsley navigated around Marcell Ozuna’s lead-off walk and Jurickson Profar’s single with a strikeout, followed by consecutive groundouts for his 19th save. He threw 25 pitches (64 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (12 SwStr%).

He finished the first half with a 1.42 WHIP while converting 19 of 24 save chances with 36 strikeouts against 14 walks (15.1 K-BB%) through 33 innings.

Riley O’Brien logged 1.2 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out two for his second hold.
Gordon Graceffo collected his third win, working 1.2 innings, giving up a hit and an earned run while striking out three.

Hierarchy Remains: Ryan Helsley | Phil Maton | JoJo Romero

The Athletics – Sealing a three-run margin, Mason Miller worked around Bo Bichette’s one-out single by inducing a game-ending Vlad Guerrero Jr. double play groundout for his 19th save. He threw 18 pitches (72.2 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (27.8 SwStr%).

He finished the first half on an eight-game scoreless streak, converting all five save opportunities, posting a 0.625 WHIP with 11 strikeouts versus three walks (29.6 K-BB%) in eight innings.

Sean Newcomb secured his second hold, retiring the side and striking out two at the top of the eighth.
Justin Sterner retired his only batter via strikeout for his eighth hold in the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Mason Miller | Michael Kelly | Sean Newcomb

Quick Hits

Arizona Diamondbacks: Closing a four-run win over the Angels, Kendall Graveman retired the side at the bottom of the ninth on 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) without a whiff. Kevin Ginkel navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out one for a scoreless eighth, facing the top of the lineup.
Atlanta Braves: As the “bulk follower,” Jesse Chavez suffered his first loss, allowing six hits, four earned runs, and a walk while striking out one during the fifth and sixth innings.
Minnesota Twins: Taking over a tied game at the top of the ninth, Jhoan Durán allowed Ke’Bryan Hayes’ one-out single, followed by an Oneil Cruz single, and an Isiah Kiner-Falefa single, to load the bases. Durán induced a groundout, but it scored the go-ahead run ahead of an inning-ending strikeout, resulting in his fourth loss and a season-high three hits allowed. Griffin Jax fired a clean eighth and recorded a strikeout.
New York Yankees: Appearing during a loss, Devin Williams finished the first half with a clean top of the ninth while recording two strikeouts on 12 pitches (75 Strike%) with two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He was scoreless in 12 of his last 13 games, posting a 0.472 WHIP with 17 strikeouts against two walks (32.7 K-BB%) over 12.2 innings.
San Diego Padres: Summoned at the top of the seventh, Adrian Morejon stranded his only inherited runner, recording an inning-ending strikeout of Kyle Schwarber. Returning for the eighth, he allowed a one-out double by Bryce Harper before being removed. David Morgan replaced him, but let Harper score on J.T. Realmuto’s RBI double, resulting in Morejon being tagged with his fourth loss.
Seattle Mariners: Closing out a four-run win in Detroit without tipping pitches, Andrés Muñoz retired the side and recorded a strikeout. He finished the first half with a 0.89 WHIP while converting 21 of 27 save chances with 46 strikeouts against 14 walks (22.5 K-BB%) through 36 innings. Matt Brash collected his first win, firing a clean bottom of the eighth while striking out one ahead of his team’s rally at the top of the ninth.

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Monkey Bytes | July 13

Saturday’s slate featured a mix of blowouts (four) and games decided by two runs or fewer (nine), though one was a complete game shutout. Relievers recorded seven wins, one accompanied by a blown save (Daysbel Hernández), and six saves while suffering seven losses. Two relievers worked for a third straight contest: Raisel Iglesias (ATL) and Jeremiah Estrada (SD), yet recorded a save. Here are the saves in condensed form:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB	BF
Edwin Díaz	19	22	64%	13.6	1:1	6
Tanner Scott	19	12	58.3	16.7	2:0	3
Mason Miller	18	18	50	11.1	2:1	4
Raisel Iglesias	11	11	81.8	9.1	1:0	3
Daniel Palencia	11	9	77.8	33.3	1:0	2
Jeremiah Estrada	3	11	54.5	9.1	1:0	3

Because of usage patterns and being the last day before the All-Star break, there are limited vulture save options for today’s games:

Vulture Options for July 13

Pierce Johnson (ATL): Iglesias has pitched in three consecutive games, Lee and Hernández in three of the previous four.
Shawn Armstrong (TEX): He may be needed for multi-innings, but also could be in line for the save chance, if provided. Luke Jackson could also be in play, but on July 6, Armstrong notched the vulture save.

Under the Hood: Ryan Helsley

Taking over a tied game at the top of the ninth, Ryan Helsley allowed Nacho Alvarez Jr.’s lead-off single, who advanced to second base on a sacrifice bunt, followed by Drake Baldwin’s pinch-hit single, and an RBI fielder’s choice groundout by Jurickson Profar despite an 0-2 count. Helsley finished with two hits and an earned run, resulting in his first loss.

After a slow start, he has been better, but his monthly splits illustrate how WHIP has been an issue for most of the season:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/4U1Xf/1/

This can be tied to his batting average on balls in play (BAbip) being 30 points higher than last year and an increase in contact allowed:

Ryan Helsley	2024	2025	Difference	Career
Contact%	67	72.2	6.2	70.4
Z-Contact%	80.8	85.6	4.8	82.3
Hard Hit%	34.8	46.2	11.4	39.7

Count leverage has been a theme with relievers this season. However, Devin Williams has rebounded while Helsley continues struggling with his four-seam fastball. In 2025, the pitch has a .453 weighted on-base average (wOBA), a 1.043 on-base percentage plus slugging percentage (OPS) allowed, and a .451 BAbip, which is 164 points above last year.

When a batter is ahead in the count, they produce a .658 wOBA, a .567 expected wOBA (xwOBA), and of 19 balls in play, a 52.6 hard-hit percentage:

In 2024, he also recorded a negative K-BB percentage with the four-seam but managed contact results better. Here is this year’s heat map when he is behind in counts with the four-seam:

Hope can lie in a reliever’s ratio indicators. But Helsley’s current 3.38 ERA has a 3.48 SIERA and 3.90 xERA accompanying it, which suggests this may be as good as it gets this year. This presents a potential problem for him and his team. As a pending free agent, he may be traded ahead of the deadline, though his current results may yield a reduced return in prospect capital. Of a larger concern, he could end up as a setup reliever on a contender, but location will play a pivotal part in his rest-of-the-season projections from a fantasy perspective. Stay tuned, and monitor the trade rumors closely.

Closer CliffsNotes

Atlanta Braves – For a third straight game, Raisel Iglesias retired the side and recorded a strikeout. He capped his team’s rally at the top of the ninth, preserving the one-run lead while locking down his 11th save. Facing the Cardinals’ 9-1-2 hitters, he only needed 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff (9.1 SwStr%).

He extended his scoreless streak to 14 games, during which he has a 0.551 WHIP with 17 strikeouts versus one walk (35.6 K-BB%) across 12.2 innings.

Daysbel Hernández suffered his second blown save, issuing three walks and letting the game-tying run score on a wild pitch, but was awarded his fourth win courtesy of his team’s rally at the top of the ninth.
Dylan Lee gave up two hits, including Brendan Donovan’s RBI single at the bottom of the seventh. He has allowed a run in his last two appearances.

Updated Hierarchy: Raisel Iglesias | Dylan Lee | Daysbel Hernández

Chicago Cubs –Pressed into action with a runner on and one out at the bottom of the ninth, Daniel Palencia retired Jazz Chisolm Jr. via strikeout, then induced a game-ending groundout by Trent Grisham, preserving the three-run lead and securing his 11th save. He only needed nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).

Since his first save on May 21, he has converted all 11 save chances while posting a 0.847 WHIP with 22 strikeouts against four walks (26.8 K-BB%) through 17.2 innings.

Brad Keller turned a potential combined shutout into a save opportunity, allowing two hits, including Aaron Judge’s two-run home run, and hit Giancarlo Stanton before being removed during his one-third of the ninth. He has allowed multiple runs in two of his last three appearances.

Hierarchy Remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Ryan Pressly

Cincinnati Reds – After navigating around a lead-off walk and a single putting runners on the corners, Emilio Pagán bore down, recording consecutive strikeouts, followed by an inning-ending groundout, keeping his team within one run. He collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 19 pitches (63.2 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (21.1 SwStr%), and has been scoreless in six of his last seven, recording two wins and two saves with a 1.00 WHIP in seven innings.

Graham Ashcraft retired all five batters and stranded a runner at the top of the seventh on 18 pitches (61.1 Strike%) with three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Colorado Rockies – Handed a one-run lead, Victor Vodnik gave up Spencer Steer’s lead-off single, followed by Will Benson’s game-tying RBI triple, walked Jake Fraley, and suffered his third loss and fourth blown save when Noelvi Marte reached on a fielding error, scoring the game-winning run. Vodnik finished with two hits, two runs (one earned), and a walk without recording an out.

Juan Mejia notched his sixth hold, yielding a hit during a scoreless eighth.
Tyler Kinley allowed Marte’s solo home run at the bottom of the seventh, getting credit for his sixth hold.
Jimmy Herget stranded a runner, despite giving up a hit and a walk while retiring one batter at the bottom of the sixth for his second hold.

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

Houston Astros – Although he let the “place” runner score on Adolis García’s single at the top of the 11th, Bennett Sousa earned his third win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the frame. He worked both extra innings, giving up a hit and an unearned run while striking out three.

Josh Hader suffered his first blown save, allowing a game-tying solo home run by Kyle Higashioka on a 3-1 count with two outs at the top of the ninth.

As for the home run:

Through four outings in July, he has allowed a home run in three, resulting in five earned runs during his five innings pitched in this limited sample.

Bryan Abreu was credited with his 23rd hold despite serving up Marcus Semien’s solo home run at the top of the eighth. He also recorded two strikeouts.
Bryan King notched his 19th hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bennett Sousa

Los Angeles Dodgers – Snapping his team’s losing streak and securing his 19th save, Tanner Scott fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts, preserving a one-run win over the Giants. He threw 12 pitches (58.3 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

It’s his first save since June 27 and his first clean appearance since June 17.

Alex Vesia stranded one of three runners, allowing a sacrifice fly while retiring both batters at the bottom of the eighth for his 17th hold.
Emmet Sheehan collected his first win pitching as the “bulk follower.” He logged 4.1 innings, giving up two hits, an earned run, and three walks while striking out three.

Hierarchy Remains: Tanner Scott | Kirby Yates | Alex Vesia

*= closer-by-committee with a preferred save share (Scott)

Milwaukee Brewers – Although he allowed a hit, an earned run, and two walks at the top of the ninth, Grant Anderson was credited with his second win following his team’s walk-off rally plating three runs at the bottom of the inning.

Abner Uribe suffered his second blown save, giving up two hits, including Brady House’s two-run home run at the top of the eighth, snapping his five-game scoreless streak while working 1.2 innings.

Nick Mears stranded two runners at the top of the sixth and allowed two hits during his two-thirds innings between the sixth and the seventh.
Jared Koenig tossed 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

New York Mets – Locking down his 19th save, Edwin Díaz recorded his first two-inning save since September 22, 2024. He allowed a walk and recorded a strikeout on 22 pitches (63.6 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to 12 games, spanning 12.2 innings, during which he has a 0.63 WHIP with 16 strikeouts against two walks (31.9 K-BB%).

Chris Devenski issued a walk during a scoreless seventh for his second hold.
Reed Garrett stranded an inherited runner while retiring all three batters at the bottom of the sixth, securing his 16th hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | Reed Garrett | Huascar Brazobán

San Diego Padres – For a third consecutive day, Jeremiah Estrada appeared during a high-leverage situation. Against the Phillies on Saturday, he preserved a one-run margin for his third save. He threw 11 pitches (54.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff (9.1 SwStr%).

This marked his first save since June 3, and extended his scoreless streak to 11 games, during which he has a 0.636 WHIP with 16 strikeouts against three walks (31.7 K-BB%).

Yuki Matsui stranded a runner despite giving up a hit during one-third of the eighth.
David Morgan logged a scoreless combined inning while yielding a hit. He was awarded his first win as a result.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

Texas Rangers – After stranding the “place” runner at the bottom of the tenth while retiring the side and striking out one, Robert Garcia returned for the 11th, and it did not go well.

He was pulled after issuing consecutive walks to load the bases.

Hoby Milner replaced him, allowing Christian Walker’s sacrifice fly and Zack Short’s walk-off RBI single, resulting in Garcia’s fifth loss and Milner’s fourth blown save.

Chris Martin allowed a hit during a scoreless ninth.
Luke Jackson tossed a scoreless eighth, walking and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Garcia | Chris Martin | Shawn Armstrong

The Athletics – Shutting the door on his 18th while preserving a one-run lead, Mason Miller worked around Joey Loperfido’s lead-off walk and a sacrifice bunt by striking out the next two batters. He threw 18 pitches (50 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%).

He extended his scoreless streak to seven games, during which he has converted all four saves while recording a 0.571 WHIP with 10 strikeouts versus three walks (29.2 K-BB%) in seven innings.

Sean Newcomb stranded a runner at the top of the eighth, striking out both batters for his first hold.
Michael Kelly allowed a hit, an earned run, and a walk while recording an out in the seventh and eighth innings for his fourth hold.
Elvis Alvarado notched his first hold, logging 1.2 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out four.

Hierarchy Remains: Mason Miller | Michael Kelly | Sean Newcomb

Quick Hits

Chicago White Sox: Entering at the top of the sixth, Jordan Leasure suffered his fifth loss. He allowed Kyle Manzardo’s go-ahead solo home run, issued a walk, and recorded a strikeout.
Cleveland Guardians: Closing out a four-run win over the White Sox, Matt Festa retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the bottom of the ninth. Cade Smith fired a clean eighth, striking out one, and secured his 18th hold. Erik Sabrowski retired all four batters faced via strikeout for his second hold.
Kansas City Royals: Appearing during a loss, Lucas Erceg allowed two hits and an earned run while striking out two over 1.1 innings.
Los Angeles Angels: Finishing a five-run win, Connor Brogdon retired the side at the top of the ninth. Sam Bachman let two of three inherited runners score on an infield hit and a walk, recording two outs, one via strikeout for his first hold in the eighth.
Miami Marlins: Completing a combined shutout, Anthony Bender issued a walk and recorded a strikeout. Ronny Henriquez faced the Orioles’ 9-1-2-3 hitters and worked around a hit, securing his 12th hold. He’s been scoreless in his last six and 12 of his last 13, posting a 0.787 WHIP with 19 strikeouts against two walks (37 K-BB%) through 12.2 innings.
Minnesota Twins: As the “bulk follower,” Travis Adams earned his first career win, logging four innings, giving up two hits, two runs (one earned), and a walk while striking out three.
Philadelphia Phillies: During an eventual one-run loss, Matt Strahm fired a clean bottom of the eighth and recorded two strikeouts. Jordan Romano stranded one of two inherited runners, allowing a sacrifice fly and striking out one during two-thirds of the seventh.
Pittsburgh Pirates: During a lopsided loss, David Bednar worked around Matt Wallner’s one-out single, tossing a scoreless bottom of the eighth. He threw 14 pitches (57.1 Strike%) without a whiff. He has not had a save chance since July 1 but extended his scoreless streak to seven games, during which he has posted a 1.00 WHIP with nine strikeouts against three walks.
San Francisco Giants: In an eventual one-run loss, Tyler Rogers gave up a hit during a scoreless top of the ninth. Ryan Walker retired the side in the eighth. Joey Lucchesi worked a clean seventh, striking out two. He has been scoreless in his last six relief outings and recorded nine strikeouts against two walks across seven innings.
Tampa Bay Rays: During a shutout loss, Edwin Uceta logged 1.2 scoreless frames, walking one and striking out four on 24 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with five whiffs (20.8 SwStr%).

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Monkey Bytes | July 12

Friday’s 16-game slate resulted in eight reliever wins, with one accompanied by a blown save (Jake Bird), and converted six saves while suffering six losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB	BF
Robert Suarez	28	13	76.9	15.4	1:0	3
Emmanuel Clase	20	10	70	0	0:0	4
Camilo Doval	15	14	64.3	0	0:1	4
Jhoan Durán	15	16	68.8	25	2:0	4
Raisel Iglesias	10	14	57.1	0	1:0	3
Victor Vodnik	2	27	59.3	22.2	3:1	5

As a result of last night’s action, Atlanta’s and Colorado’s hierarchies have been adjusted, along with the Angels getting a slight tweak in its set-up relievers.

For the save streamers, a potentially busy day:

Vulture Save Options for July 12

Daysbel Hernández (ATL): Iglesias has pitched in back-to-back games.
Lucas Erceg (KC): Estévez has worked in three of the previous four days, throwing 43 pitches.
Yariel Rodríguez (TOR): Hoffman tossed 33 pitches during a non-save appearance last night.
Wandy Peralta (SD): All four leverage relievers (Suarez, Adam, Morejon, Estrada) have pitched in consecutive contests.

Vulture Save Stashes for July 13

Cole Sands (MIN): If Durán and Jax pitch today, it’s back-to-back games.
Randy Rodríguez (SF): If Doval gets used in today’s game, it will be consecutive appearances.
Ryan Zeferjahn (LAA): If Jansen works today, it will be back-to-back outings.

Here are the leverage events of interest from Friday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Atlanta Braves – Shutting the door on his tenth save and first since June 24, Raisel Iglesias retired the Cardinals’ 2-3-4 hitters in order, including a game-ending strikeout against Willson Contreras, sealing a one-run win. He threw 14 pitches (57.1 Strike%) without a whiff.

This extended his scoreless streak to 13 games, during which he’s posted a 0.598 WHIP with 16 strikeouts against one walk (35.7 K-BB%).

Pierce Johnson issued a walk during a scoreless eighth for his seventh hold.
Rafael Montero allowed a hit during a scoreless seventh, securing his sixth hold.
Austin Cox allowed a walk in a scoreless sixth, notching his first hold.
Enyel De Los Santos collected his third win, logging two scoreless frames and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: *Raisel Iglesias | *Dylan Lee | *Daysbel Hernández

*= closer-by-committee

Chicago White Sox – (Game 1) – Taking over a tied game at the top of the fifth, Tyler Alexander suffered his ninth loss, allowing two hits, including Carlos Santana’s two-run home run at the top of the sixth, while logging 3.1 innings.

(Game 2) – Mike Vasil logged three scoreless frames and stranded both “place” runners in extra innings, issuing three walks and striking out two. He earned his fourth win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the 11th.

Brandon Eisert retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the eighth.
Grant Taylor took over in the seventh versus the Guardians’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket, allowing Nolan Jones’ lead-off single, retiring José Ramírez via pop-out, but gave up another single, and Angel Martínez’s RBI double while recording two strikeouts. He threw 24 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (12.5 SwStr%).

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

*= highest-leveraged reliever (Taylor)

Cleveland Guardians – (Game 1) – Working around Chase Meidroth’s lead-off single, Emmanuel Clase retired the next three batters, preserving the two-run lead while converting his 20th save. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) without a whiff.

He has whittled down his ratios after a rough patch in April and has been scoreless in nine of his last 11 appearances, securing five of six save chances with a 0.855 WHIP and eight strikeouts against two walks through 11.2 innings.

Hunter Gaddis notched his 19th hold, walking and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
Cade Smith tossed a clean seventh, recording his 17th hold.

(Game 2) – Matt Festa stranded a runner and retired his only batter in the seventh for his seventh hold. Paul Sewald entered at the bottom of the eighth, issuing a lead-off walk, followed by a one-out single, and a sacrifice fly, scored an unearned, game-tying run, resulting in his second blown save.

Nic Enright logged 1.1 clean frames and recorded three strikeouts.
Kolby Allard suffered his first loss. He worked 1.1 innings, yielding a hit, an unearned run, and issuing two intentional walks across the tenth and 11th innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Colorado Rockies – It was a white-knuckle ride, but Victor Vodnik held on for his second save, preserving a one-run win in Cincinnati. His outing began with Santiago Espinal’s lead-off double, followed by full count strikeouts against TJ Friedl and Matt McClain, an intentional walk to Elly De La Cruz, and a game-ending strikeout of Austin Hays. Vodnik threw 27 pitches (59.3 Strike%) and produced six whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). His illustrator:

And his results:

He extended his scoreless streak to 11 games, during which he has posted a 1.456 WHIP with 11 strikeouts versus eight walks (6.8 K-BB%) over 10.1 innings.

Juan Mejia notched his fifth hold, retiring the side and striking out one. He may be the sleeper worth tracking in this leverage ladder.
Jake Bird allowed two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one in the seventh. He was tagged with his fourth blown save and was awarded his third win as a result.

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

Los Angeles Angels – With the score tied at the top of the ninth, Kenley Jansen worked around Ketel Marte’s lead-off single by inducing Geraldo Perdomo’s flyout and an inning-ending double play groundout by Lourdes Gurriel Jr. Jansen collected his third win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the frame. He threw 10 pitches (80 Strike%) without a whiff.

This extended his scoreless streak to all six games in July, during which he has recorded two wins, one save, and a 0.50 WHIP with nine strikeouts while issuing zero walks (45 K-BB%) across six innings.

Reid Detmers suffered his second blown save, giving up two hits, including Randal Grichuk’s game-tying solo home run at the top of the eighth.
José Fermin fired a clean seventh, striking out one, and secured his first hold.
Brock Burke turned in a clean sixth for his tenth hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Reid Detmers | José Fermin

Minnesota Twins – Locking down his 15th save, Jhoan Durán worked around a hit and recorded two strikeouts while preserving a one-run win over the Pirates. He threw 16 pitches (68.8 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (25 SwStr%).

This outing extended his scoreless streak to seven games, in which he has recorded a win, converted five saves, and a 0.857 WHIP with seven strikeouts against two walks (19.2 K-BB%).

Griffin Jax fired a clean eighth, striking out one, and secured his 20th hold.
Louis Varland allowed a hit during a scoreless seventh, notching his 16th hold.
Brock Stewart stranded a runner while retiring his only batter for his 13th hold in the sixth.
Danny Coulombe gave up a hit and struck out one during two-thirds of the sixth for his seventh hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Louis Varland

San Diego Padres – Nailing down his 28th save, Robert Suarez retired the side and recorded a strikeout against the Phillies’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket, preserving a two-run lead. He threw 13 pitches (76.9 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).

He has converted all five save opportunities in July and has been scoreless in his last five appearances.

Jason Adam escaped with a scoreless eighth, navigating around two hits and a walk for his 23rd hold.
Adrian Morejon notched his 13th hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the seventh.
Jeremiah Estrada was awarded his third win, working a clean seventh and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

San Francisco Giants – Facing the top of the Dodgers’ lineup with a one-run lead, Camilo Doval bent but did not break while recording his 15th save. He allowed Mookie Betts’ one-out single, a stolen base by pinch-runner Esteury Ruiz, and Freddie Freeman’s walk with a game-ending double play groundout induced against Will Smith. Doval threw 14 pitches (64.3 Strike%) without a whiff.

He has posted a save in his last two outings, but has not recorded a strikeout while issuing two walks, resulting in a 1.50 WHIP in them.

Tyler Rogers gave up a hit during a scoreless eighth, securing his 20th hold.
Randy Rodríguez logged 1.2 innings, giving up three hits and an earned run for his 13th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Camilo Doval | Randy Rodríguez | Tyler Rogers

Tampa Bay Rays – Summoned with a one-run lead at the bottom of the ninth in Boston, Pete Fairbanks issued a one-out walk, followed by Cedanne Rafaela’s walk-off two-run home run, resulting in his third loss and third blown save.

It’s the third time in his last ten appearances he has allowed multiple runs, during which he has a 1.30 WHIP with eight strikeouts versus three walks.

Garrett Cleavinger retired both batters via strikeout at the bottom of the eighth for his 13th hold.
Kevin Kelly allowed a hit during 1.1 scoreless frames, securing his fifth hold.
Joe Boyle worked as the “bulk follower,” giving up three hits, two earned runs, and two walks while striking out one across four innings.

Updated Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Bryan Baker | Garrett Cleavinger

Toronto Blue Jays – Entering with a four-run lead, Jeff Hoffman made things interesting against the A’s. He allowed Max Muncy’s solo home run after recording an out, issued a walk, followed by Denzel Clarke’s single. With two outs, he uncorked a wild pitch, scoring a run and advancing Clarke to second, cashed in by Brent Rooker’s RBI single ahead of a game-ending strikeout against Nick Kurtz. Hoffman finished with three hits, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out two in a non-save appearance.

Yariel Rodríguez retired both batters via strikeout at the bottom of the eighth.
Brendon Little stranded two runners in the seventh while logging a clean combined inning, striking out all three batters faced for his 17th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Yariel Rodríguez | Chad Green

Quick Hits

Arizona Diamondbacks: With the score tied at the bottom of the ninth, Kyle Backhus retired his batter, hit Logan O’Hoppe with a pitch, then allowed consecutive singles, including Travis d’Arnaud’s walk-off RBI one, resulting in his first loss.
Boston Red Sox: An impromptu bullpen game following an injury at the top of the second culminated in a walk-off rally, handing Chris Murphy his second win. He worked a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout against the Rays’ 1-2-3 lineup pocket. Jordan Hicks retired the side while striking out one in the eighth, throwing 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) with one whiff.
Cincinnati Reds: With the score tied, Scott Barlow fired a clean top of the seventh, striking out the side. Tony Santillan suffered his third loss, giving up two hits, an earned run on a wild pitch, and a walk while striking out three at the top of the eighth.
Kansas City Royals: After stranding a runner at the top of the seventh, retiring two batters, Steven Cruz did not record an out in the eighth, yielding a single and two walks before being removed. Carlos Estévez took over, but let all three inherited runners score on Mark Vientos’ bases-clearing double, resulting in his fourth blown save. He allowed a hit and an intentional walk while striking out two. Cruz suffered his first loss, getting tagged with three earned runs on his ledger.
Milwaukee Brewers: As the “bulk follower,” Quinn Priester recorded his seventh win, allowing four hits, two earned runs, and two walks while striking out five over six innings of relief.
New York Mets: Despite allowing four hits and two earned runs at the bottom of the seventh, Huascar Brazobán was awarded his fifth win. Reed Garrett retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the eighth, securing his 15th hold. Chris Devenski worked a clean ninth, finishing a five-run win over the Royals.
Texas Rangers: Making his first appearance since July 5, Robert Garcia retired the side and recorded a strikeout, closing a four-run win over Houston. He threw 13 pitches (69.2 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%).

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Monkey Bytes | July 11

Thursday’s slate was reduced by one following a postponement in Chicago, which results in a doubleheader this afternoon. In yesterday’s 10-game slate, relievers recorded five wins and three saves while suffering five losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB	BF
Robert Suarez	27	13	69.2	15.4	1:0	3
Félix Bautista	18	17	70.6	5.9	0:0	3
Aroldis Chapman	16	15	66.7	26.7	2:0	4

Another light schedule for the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for July 11

Luke Weaver (NYY): Williams has pitched in back-to-back games.
Matt Brash (SEA): Muñoz threw 31pitches last night.

Doubleheader Recommendations

Cleveland Guardians: Paul Sewald
Chicago White Sox: Jordan Leasure

Vulture Save Stash for July 12

Jordan Hicks (BOS): If Chapman pitches tonight, it will be consecutive appearances.

Here are the leverage events of interest from Thursday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Atlanta Braves – Taking over at the bottom of the 11th, Aaron Bummer recorded a strikeout, intentionally walked Miguel Andujar, followed by Tyler Soderstrom’s walk-off RBI single, resulting in his second loss.

Pierce Johnson retired the side while striking out one at the bottom of the tenth.
Raisel Iglesias fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded one strikeout, keeping the game tied. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (44.4 SwStr%). It flies below the radar, but he has been scoreless over his last 12 appearances, posting a 0.654 WHIP with 15 strikeouts against one walk (35.9 K-BB%).
Daysbel Hernández worked a clean eighth, striking out one.
Dylan Lee suffered his fourth blown save, giving up Nick Kurtz’s game-tying solo home run among his two hits, and recorded a strikeout between the seventh and eighth innings.

Updated Hierarchy: *Raisel Iglesias | *Dylan Lee | *Daysbel Hernández

Baltimore Orioles – (Game 1) – Félix Bautista locked down his 18th save, retiring the side against the Mets’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket on 17 pitches (70.5 Strike%) with one whiff.

He extended his scoreless streak to five games, and he has converted his last 11 save chances since May 26, posting a 0.778 WHIP with 31 strikeouts against nine walks (32.4 K-BB%) across 18 innings.

Grant Wolfram logged two scoreless innings, giving up a hit and striking out four. He earned his first win courtesy of a go-ahead home run at the bottom of the eighth.

(Game 2) – Preserving a four-run lead at the top of the ninth, Seranthony Domínguez navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out two.

Gregory Soto fired a clean eighth, striking out one.
Andrew Kittredge retired the side and recorded one strikeout in the seventh. Tidy auditions for contending teams searching for relievers.

Updated Hierarchy: Félix Bautista | Seranthony Domínguez | Gregory Soto

Boston Red Sox – Capping his team’s comeback rally, Aroldis Chapman secured his 16th save, working around Jake Mangum’s one-out single with consecutive strikeouts, preserving the one-run margin. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%).

He extended his scoreless streak to ten games, during which he has converted all five save chances while posting a 0.43 WHIP with 18 strikeouts against one walk (51.5 K-BB%) through 9.2 innings.

Garrett Whitlock notched his tenth hold, retiring the side and striking out two during the eighth.
Chris Murphy collected his first win, giving up a hit during a scoreless seventh, ahead of his team’s three-run rally at the bottom of the frame.

The team also faces a decision about what role Tanner Houck will fill when his minor league rehab assignment ends on July 17. He has been improving during his starts, but he also was a high-leverage reliever in 2022, converting eight of nine save chances with a 0.882 WHIP across 11.1 innings in save situations. Fantasy managers should monitor this closely, especially if the team sells high on Chapman. Here are quotes by Craig Breslow regarding his dominant closer.

Updated Hierarchy: Aroldis Chapman | Jordan Hicks | Garrett Whitlock

New York Yankees – Tasked with the top of the tenth, Devin Williams retired the side, stranding the “place” runner and recorded a strikeout. He collected his third win when his team produced a walk-off rally at the bottom of the frame. He threw seven pitches, all strikes, and induced one whiff (14.3 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in 11 of his last 12 appearances, going 1-1 while converting all seven save chances with a 0.513 WHIP while recording 15 strikeouts versus two walks (30.2 K-BB%) over 11.2 innings.

Ian Hamilton tossed a clean top of the ninth, striking out two.
JT Brubaker allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless eighth.

Updated Hierarchy: Devin Williams | Luke Weaver | Tim Hill

San Diego Padres – Shutting the door on his MLB-leading 27th save, Robert Suarez retired the side and recorded a strikeout against Arizona’s 2-3-4 lineup pocket, preserving a one-run lead. He threw 13 pitches (69.2 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).

He has allowed one baserunner over his last four appearances, during which he has converted three consecutive saves with five strikeouts (38.5 K-BB%).

Jeremiah Estrada secured his 19th hold, yielding a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
Jason Adam gave up two hits, an earned run, and a walk in the seventh, getting credit for his 22nd hold.
Adrian Morejon logged 1.2 scoreless frames, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out two. He was awarded his seventh win after taking over at the top of the fifth and stranding two runners.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

Seattle Mariners – Called upon at the bottom of the tenth with the game tied, Gabe Speier intentionally walked Paul Goldschmidt, walked Trent Grisham, and suffered his first loss on Aaron Judge’s walk-off sacrifice fly, scoring the “place” runner.

For only the second time in 36 appearances this season, Andrés Muñoz allowed multiple hits, allowing Grisham’s lead-off single, retiring Judge via flyout, followed by Cody Bellinger’s single, putting two on with one out. After retiring Jazz Chisolm Jr. on a flyout, Muñoz walked Ben Rice, loading the bases, and suffered his sixth blown save, giving up Austin Wells’ game-tying two-RBI single. He finished with three hits, two earned runs, and a walk. Muñoz labored through 31 pitches, and struggled commanding his four-seam fastball:

With the following results:

Matt Brash let his only inherited runner score, giving up Giancarlo Stanton’s pinch-hit two-run home run during his two-thirds of the eighth.

Updated Hierarchy: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

The Athletics – Keeping the “place” runner at bay with two clean frames, Justin Sterner earned his second win courtesy of a walk-off at the bottom of the 11th against Atlanta. He threw 26 pitches (69.2 Strike%) and produced six whiffs (23.1 SwStr%).

Mason Miller fired a clean top of the ninth, striking out one on 13 pitches (61.5 Strike%) with three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%). He has not recorded a save since July 1, but extended his scoreless streak to six games, during which he has a 0.50 WHIP and eight strikeouts against one walk (30 K-BB%).

Michael Kelly stranded a runner while retiring his only batter at the bottom of the eighth.
Sean Newcomb worked a scoreless combined inning, walking and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Mason Miller | Michael Kelly | Sean Newcomb

Quick Hits

Chicago Cubs: Finishing a seven-run win over the Twins, Daniel Palencia fired a clean bottom of the ninth, recording two strikeouts while throwing 12 pitches (75 Strike%) with six whiffs (50 SwStr%). He had not pitched since June 6 and has been scoreless in three of four outings in July, but he last recorded a save on July 2. Brad Keller worked around a hit and a walk while striking out two during a scoreless bottom of the eighth.
Miami Marlins: Appearing during a shutout loss, Ronny Henriquez stranded a runner while retiring all three batters via strikeout during the bottom of the sixth, facing the Reds’ 5-6-7 hitters. He threw 16 pitches (68.8 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (25 SwStr%). He has been scoreless in 11 of his last 12 since June 14, recording two wins, four saves, and two holds while posting a 0.769 WHIP with 19 strikeouts versus two walks (40.4 K-BB%) across 11.2 innings.
New York Mets: (Game 1) – Entering a tied game at the bottom of the eighth, Ryne Stanek issued four walks and gave up one hit, a go-ahead two-run home run by Gunnar Henderson, resulting in his fifth loss and a fourth blown save. (Game 2) – Appearing as the “bulk follower,” Justin Hagenman suffered his first loss. He allowed four hits, three runs (two earned), and a walk while striking out three during his two innings of relief.
St. Louis Cardinals: In order of appearance, Steven Matz notched his sixth hold, logging 1.1 clean frames and stranding his only inherited runner at the top of the sixth. Kyle Leahy allowed two hits, an earned run, and two walks while striking out one during the eighth and ninth innings.
Tampa Bay Rays: A less-than-auspicious team debut for Bryan Baker. He took over with a two-run lead at the bottom of the seventh and issued Trevor Story a lead-off walk, a leverage mortal sin. His command struggles continued, walking Romy Gonzalez, followed by a Marcelo Mayer RBI-double, and Cedanne Rafaela’s two-RBI single, resulting in Baker’s second loss and a fourth blown save. He finished with two hits, three earned runs, and two walks while striking out one.
Texas Rangers: During an extended relief outing, Jacob Latz notched his second hold, giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out six across 3.1 innings.
Washington Nationals: Pitching during an eventual seven-run loss, Kyle Finnegan retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the bottom of the eighth. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (20 SwStr%). The good news is that he extended his scoreless streak to eight games, spanning 7.1 innings. However, he has not recorded a save since June 6.

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Statistical Credits: