Monkey Bytes | June 20

Thursday’s expanded 16-game slate proved volatile, though it featured two career first saves. Relievers recorded six wins and seven saves while getting tagged with seven losses. Closer Monkey congratulates Yuki Matsui on his first career save and Andre Granillo, who not only secured his first save but also his first win during a doubleheader in Chicago that the rookie will never forget. Here are the saves from this slate in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BBBF
Carlos Estévez211163.600:03
Trevor Megill16165018.81:13
Ryan Helsley141070201:03
Camilo Doval111172.718.21:03
Orion Kerkering21376.97.70:05
Andre Granillo11457.121.41:14
Yuki Matsui11136.49.11:13

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for June 20

  • Lucas Erceg (KC): Estévez had pitched in consecutive contests. 
  • Matt Strahm (PHI): Kerkering has appeared in back-to-back games. 
  • Jason Adam (SD): Suarez had worked in the previous two days. 
  • Randy Rodríguez (SF): Doval has appeared in consecutive games. 
  • Tommy Kahnle (DET): Vest threw 26 pitches yesterday. 

Vulture Save Stash for June 21

  • Bryan Baker (BAL): If Bautista pitches today, it’s back-to-back games. 

Three Takeaways

(1) Atlanta is using Lee as HLR, not as a closer: Taking over at the top of the eighth against the Mets’ top of the batting order, Dylan Lee retired the side and recorded a strikeout, preserving a six-run lead. Since May 27, he has allowed one unearned run while posting a 0.455 WHIP with 14 strikeouts versus one walk (34.2 K-BB%) through 11 innings. However, in this timeframe, he has not recorded a hold or a save. He has been impressive and could be used in a save situation. Still, recent usage patterns suggest he will face the toughest lineup pockets, especially if they feature the opponents’ best left-handed hitter. This may be frustrating for those who added the southpaw, and could also translate into a save chance by Raisel Iglesias as soon as this weekend. Stay tuned.

(2) Matsui’s first save: Pressed into action after an ejection, Yuki Matsui capped an eventful contest by recording his first career save. He inherited runners at the corners with two outs and issued a walk to Miguel Rojas, loading the bases, then uncorked a wild pitch, scoring Tommy Edman before striking out Dalton Rushing. Robert Suarez replaced Sean Reynolds, who issued two walks while retiring one batter before being removed. However, Suarez gave up an RBI single by Edman and an RBI fielder’s choice groundout by Hyeseong Kim, then, with a 3-0 count against Shohei Ohtani, hit him in the back, getting him ejected.

He finished with a hit and an earned run during one-third of the ninth inning during a non-save appearance. This represents his third straight game allowing at least a run. Jason Adam tossed a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit and striking out three. Jeremiah Estrada was credited with his 13th hold, navigating around a hit and a walk for a scoreless seventh. Adrian Morejon collected his fourth win, retiring all four batters and stranding two runners between the fifth and sixth innings. 

(3) Meet Mr. Granillo: When St. Louis promoted Andre Granillo, he led all Triple-A relievers with a 39.7 strikeout percentage. He has been flying below the radar, but had a day he will never forget. He recorded his first major league strikeout, win, and save during a sweep against the White Sox. During Game 1, he was awarded his first win, stranding two runners while retiring his only batter at the bottom of the seventh. In Game 2, he recorded his first career save, working around a walk and striking out one during a scoreless bottom of the tenth. He threw 14 pitches (57.1 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%).

There was more good news during the first game when Ryan Helsley retired the side and recorded one strikeout while preserving a comeback win over the White Sox, securing his 14th save. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and induced two whiffs.

This ended a stretch of four games during which he allowed at least a run while suffering three blown saves and represents his first clean outing since May 31. More games like this enhance his trade value and may pave the way for more Granillo saves in the second half.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Thursday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Chicago White Sox – (Game 1) – Not only did the White Sox suffer their seventh straight loss overall in a one-run contest, but the team also suffered their 20th loss already this season in 24 1-run games. Steven Wilson stranded two runners at the top of the eighth and logged 1.1 scoreless innings, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out two.

  • Cam Booser gave up three hits, including Willson Contreras’ two-run home run, three runs (two earned), and a walk during two-thirds of the eighth, getting tagged with his fourth loss and third blown save.
  • Grant Taylor fired a clean seventh versus the 9-1-2 lineup pocket, striking out one on six pitches (83.3 Strike%) with two whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).
  • Brandon Eisert let one of two inherited runners score during his two-thirds of the sixth, issuing two walks and striking out one during his second blown save.

(Game 2) – Dan Altavilla suffered his first loss, giving up two hits, including Lars Nootbar’s solo home run, resulting in two runs (one earned) and striking out one at the top of the tenth.

  • Jordan Leasure retired all five batters and recorded two strikeouts.

There is no semblance of consistent usage patterns by first-year manager, Will Venable, but sometime soon, Taylor should receive a save chance given this team’s paltry results in one-run contests.

Hierarchy Remains: *Dan Altavilla | *Cam Booser | Grant Taylor

*= closer-by-committee

Colorado Rockies – Appearing for the third time in four days against the Nationals, Seth Halvorsen suffered his second loss and a third blown save, allowing James Wood’s walk-off two-run home run with two outs at the bottom of the 11th. He only threw four pitches, recording an out on a sacrifice bunt, followed by CJ Abrams’ groundout. This snapped his modest four-game scoreless streak.

  • Ryan Rolison tossed a clean bottom of the tenth.
  • Victor Vodnik worked 1.1 scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out two.
  • Jimmy Herget turned in 1.2 scoreless innings and recorded a strikeout.

Hierarchy Remains: Seth Halvorsen | Victor Vodnik | Jake Bird

Houston Astros – During his first multi-inning outing since April 8, Josh Hader retired the side at the bottom of the ninth and returned for the tenth, but after a wild pitch and a strikeout, he suffered his first loss on Nick Kurtz’s walk-off two-run home run. This marks the second home run allowed by a left-handed hitter this season by Hader.

He threw 21 pitches (13 strikes – 61.9 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (9.5 SwStr%). He has given up a home run in two of his last four appearances but retains a 0.74 WHIP with 50 strikeouts over 32.1 innings this season.

  • Bryan Abreu worked around a hit and a walk while striking out two in a scoreless eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bryan King

Kansas City Royals – Moving into a tie for the major league lead in saves, Carlos Estevez retired the side for his 21st save. He threw 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) without a whiff against the Rangers’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket.

Across eight appearances in June, he has two losses, converting five of six save chances with a 1.233 WHIP through 7.1 innings.

  • Angel Zerpa worked a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit and striking out one for his fifth hold.
  • John Schreiber tossed a clean seventh, striking out one while recording his tenth hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber

Milwaukee Brewers – Securing his 16th save, Trevor Megill navigated around a walk with a game-ending double play, preserving the one-run win against the Cubs. He threw 16 pitches (50 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%).

He has converted six of seven save opportunities this month, posting a 1.286 WHIP with 10 strikeouts versus two walks (27.6 K-BB%) through seven innings.

  • Abner Uribe allowed a hit, two earned runs, and two walks while striking out one during the eighth, getting credit for his 20th hold.
  • Jared Koenig retired his only batter in the seventh, notching his 12th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

New York Yankees – Avoiding a sweep against the Angels, Devin Williams fired a scoreless top of the ninth, hitting a batter and recording three strikeouts on 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and generating four whiffs (25 SwStr%),  finishing a four-run win. He has been scoreless in six of seven games in June, converting all four save chances while recording a 0.597 WHIP with 10 strikeouts (40 K%) versus zero walks over 6.2 innings.

  • Jonathan Loáisiga allowed a hit during a scoreless eighth, notching his fourth hold.
  • Mark Leiter Jr. retired the side in the seventh for his tenth hold.

Before this contest, it was insinuated Luke Weaver could be activated before Friday’s game, which would be well ahead of the projected four-to-six week timeframe after his hamstring strain. This will present tough decisions for Aaron Boone and fantasy managers alike until usage patterns for Weaver and Williams are announced. In this column by Greg Joyce for the New York Post, the manager remained non-committal about roles for his backend relievers:

Stay tuned. 

Projected Hierarchy: *Devin Williams | *Luke Weaver | Mark Leiter Jr. 

*= closer-by-committee

Philadelphia Phillies – Working into and then out of trouble, Orion Kerkering preserved a one-run win over Miami despite a runner reaching on an error and a two-out single during a scoreless bottom of the ninth, securing his second save. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

He extended his scoreless streak to eight games, recording a win, two saves, and a hold with a 0.909 WHIP across 7.2 innings. Expanding his sample size, he has given up two unearned runs since May 9, posting a 1.11 WHIP through 15.1 innings.

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

*= “floating closer” concept 

Pittsburgh Pirates – (Game 2) – David Bednar took over a tied game after a rain delay and logged 1.2 scoreless frames, allowing a walk and striking out two. He collected his second win when his teammates scored four at the top of the tenth, with him protecting the lead at the bottom of the frame. He threw 20 pitches (55 Strike%) and induced two whiffs.

Through seven appearances this month, he has a 2-1 record while converting all four saves with a 0.571 WHIP and 11 strikeouts against two walks (36 K-BB%) across seven innings.

  • Dennis Santana retired his only batter ahead of the delay.
  • Caleb Ferguson worked 1.1 clean innings and recorded a strikeout.

Hierarchy Remains: David Bednar | Dennis Santana | Caleb Ferguson

San Francisco Giants – Capping his team’s comeback rally, Camilo Doval fired a clean top of the ninth while striking out one for his 11th save. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).

Through nine games this month, he has converted five of six save opportunities while registering a 1.83 WHIP with 11 strikeouts versus six whiffs across 9.1 innings.

  • Randy Rodríguez retired the side and recorded two strikeouts, locking down his ninth hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: Camilo Doval | Randy Rodríguez | Tyler Rogers

The Athletics – Tasked with the top of the tenth, Michael Kelly stranded the “place” runner by inducing a groundout, walking Christian Walker, then getting an inning-ending double play groundout against Jake Meyers. He collected his first win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the frame.

  • Mason Miller was summoned at the top of the eighth with two on and two outs, but gave up Victor Caratini’s game-tying three-run home run. He finished his 1.1 innings with two hits and an earned run while striking out one. The home run happened against, you guessed it, his four-seam fastball:
  • J.T. Ginn allowed two hits, two earned runs, and a walk during his 1.2 innings, getting credit for his first hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Mason Miller | Michael Kelly | Tyler Ferguson

Washington Nationals – Despite letting the “place” runner score at the top of the 11th, Ryan Loutos collected his first win, giving up Michael Toglia’s RBI single and striking out one ahead of his team’s walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning.

  • Zach Brzykcy tossed a scoreless tenth, walking and striking out one.
  • Kyle Finnegan logged 1.1 clean frames and recorded a strikeout, throwing 19 pitches (13 strikes – 68.4 Strike%) with two whiffs.
  • Jose A. Ferrer worked 1.2 scoreless innings, yielding two hits and striking out two.
  • Cole Henry stranded two runners and retired both batters via strikeout at the top of the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Kyle Finnegan | Jose A. Ferrer | Brad Lord

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: Closing a four-run win at Toronto, Shelby Miller retired the side and recorded two strikeouts at the bottom of the ninth, facing the 6-7-8 lineup pocket. He threw 16 pitches (13 strikes – 81.3 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (25 SwStr%). 
  • Detroit Tigers: (Game 2) – Brant Hurter entered at the top of the tenth and suffered his second loss, giving up four hits, four runs (three earned), and a walk while striking out two. Will Vest navigated around a hit and a walk with three strikeouts in a scoreless ninth. He threw 26 pitches (14 strikes – 53.8 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (19.2 SwStr%). Tommy Kahnle fired a clean eighth, striking out two.
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: Called upon at the bottom of the seventh, Lou Trivino stranded two runners while retiring both batters. Jack Little logged two innings, giving up four hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one in the eventual loss. But his most significant moment was hitting Fernando Tatis Jr. with a pitch, sparking a benches-clearing incident in this heated rivalry.
  • Miami Marlins: Summoned with a runner on and one out, Cade Gibson let him score during his combined inning while allowing a hit and a hit batter. Anthony Bender gave up Kyle Schwarber’s go-ahead solo home run, resulting in his fifth loss during two-thirds of the eighth. 
  • Texas Rangers: In a non-save situation, Robert Garcia allowed Jac Caglianone’s solo home run and recorded a strikeout at the top of the ninth, pitching for the first time since June 14.

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

Monkey Bytes | June 19

Wednesday’s full slate was reduced by inclement weather. There were three games postponed and one called during the sixth inning in Cincinnati. Still, relievers recorded three wins and six saves while getting tagged with three losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BBBF
Carlos Estévez201258.38.30:03
Emmanuel Clase1614107.11:04
Kenley Jansen151376.915.41:04
Seth Halvorsen51471.47.12:03
Matt Strahm41973.710.52:06
Greg Weissert312508.30:13

With two doubleheaders on tap, here are the vulture recommendations:

Vulture Save Options for June 19

  • Hunter Gaddis (CLE): Clase and Smith have appeared in back-to-back games. 
  • Kirby Yates (LAD): Tanner Scott worked in three straight days between Sunday and Tuesday. 

Doubleheader Options (listed alphabetically)

  • Chicago White Sox – Preferred option: Cam Booser; YOLO: Grant Taylor
  • Detroit Tigers – Preferred option: Tommy Kahnle; YOLO: Brenan Hanifee
  • Pittsburgh Pirates – Preferred option: Dennis Santana; YOLO: Isaac Matson
  • St. Louis Cardinals – Preferred option: Phil Maton; YOLO: Steven Matz

Vulture Save Stashes for June 20

  • Steven Cruz (KC): If Estévez and Erceg pitch today, it will be consecutive contests. 

Three Takeaways

(1) Suarez and contact: After his teammates tied the contest at the top of the ninth, Robert Suarez took over at the bottom of the frame, lined up against the Dodgers’ bottom third of the lineup. However, he did not make it that far. He retired Tommy Edman on a pop-up, followed by Will Smith’s pinch-hit walk-off home run, resulting in his third loss. It’s Suarez’s second consecutive outing, only recording one out during a loss, coinciding with his team’s recent struggles. His ERA stands at 3.48 through 32 games, accompanied by a 2.89 SIERA and a 3.65 xERA. His contact and Z-contact are slightly above last year’s results, and his swinging strike percentage is below. However, things are leveling up in terms of contact, manifesting in his 5.1 percent increase in hard hit percentage:

Expanding his sample size to the last 365 days, he has a 1.14 WHIP with a 78.4 contact percentage and 3.38 SIERA, setting a potential baseline for the remainder of this season.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

(2) Chapman in the eighth? Alex Cora warned us during the spring that he would use Aroldis Chapman against the toughest lineup pocket when necessary. He enacted this during yesterday’s win in Seattle, when he matched up against the top of the lineup and retired the side, striking out one on 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) with three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%) for his second hold.

Taking over against the 4-5-6 lineup pocket, Greg Weissert worked around Randy Arozarena’s one-out walk by inducing Dominic Canzone’s game-ending double play groundout for his third save. He threw 12 pitches (50 Strike%) and produced one whiff for his third save. Garrett Whitlock secured his sixth hold, firing a clean seventh and striking out one, extending his scoreless streak to eight games. One cannot overreact in this sort of usage pattern, but with the Giants on tap, plan on Chapman facing Rafael Devers in the late innings, putting Whitlock and Weissert potentially in line for ancillary saves this weekend as well.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Greg Weissert | Garrett Whitlock

(3) Strahm in the ninth? Handed a three-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, Matt Strahm made things interesting before posting his fourth save. He allowed Heriberto Hernandez’s lead-off double and Dane Myers’ RBI single while recording two strikeouts. With two outs, he gave up another single before a game-ending flyout at the wall in right field. Strahm threw 19 pitches (14 strikes – 73.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (10.5 SwStr%). This marked his second consecutive outing allowing multiple hits and an earned run. He’s also given up a run in three of his last four. Orion Kerkering notched his 11th hold, walking one and striking out two on 20 pitches (55 Strike%) with two whiffs (10 SwStr%), extending his scoreless streak to seven games. Yes, the “floating closer” concept remains alive and well for Rob Thomson, but using Strahm against a lineup pocket featuring three right-handed hitters seemed strange. It worked out this time, but barely, saved by a great catch at the fence by Nick Castellanos.

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

*= “floating closer” concept 

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Wednesday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Baltimore Orioles – Things went awry after taking an 8-0 lead after two innings. Taking over at the bottom of the fifth, Yennier Cano allowed four hits, four earned runs, and a walk during two-thirds of an inning.

  • Seranthony Domínguez stranded his only inherited runner while logging 1.1 scoreless frames, scattering two hits.
  • Andrew Kittredge suffered his first loss, giving up four hits, four earned runs, and a walk while striking out two at the bottom of the seventh.
  • Bryan Baker worked a clean bottom of the eighth, striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Félix Bautista | Seranthony Domínguez | Bryan Baker

Cleveland Guardians – Sealing a two-run lead in San Francisco, Emmanuel Clase navigated around Mike Yastrzemski’s two-out single with a game-ending strikeout for his 16th save and second in as many days. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

He has been scoreless in nine of 10 appearances since May 28, converting six of seven save chances with a 1.44 WHIP and 11 strikeouts versus four walks (15.9 K-BB%) through 9.2 innings.

  • Tim Herrin allowed a hit and tossed a scoreless eighth for his tenth hold.
  • Cade Smith recorded two outs while issuing a walk and striking out two at the bottom of the seventh for his 14th hold.
  • Matt Festa retired all three batters across the sixth and seventh innings, notching his fifth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Colorado Rockies – Shutting the door on his fifth save, Seth Halvorsen retired the side and recorded two strikeouts at the bottom of the ninth in Washington, finishing a two-run win. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and induced one whiff (7.1 SwStr%) facing the 7-8-9 lineup pocket.

He has converted a save in his last two outings, amid a modest four-game scoreless streak.

  • Tyler Kinley notched his fourth hold, working a clean bottom of the eighth.
  • Juan Mejia gave up a hit, an earned run, and a walk in the seventh, getting credit for his second hold.
  • Jake Bird stranded two runners and retired his only batter in the sixth, securing his tenth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Seth Halvorsen | Victor Vodnik | Jake Bird

Kansas City Royals – Securing his American League-leading 20th save, Carlos Estévez retired the side against Texas’ top of the lineup on 12 pitches (7 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff (8.3 SwStr%).

This marks his first save since June 8, and he has converted four of five chances this month.

  • Steven Cruz notched his fifth hold, allowing a hit and striking out two in a scoreless bottom of the eighth.
  • Lucas Erceg navigated around two hits and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless seventh, posting his 14th hold.
  • John Schreiber stranded an inherited runner while retiring both batters, one via strikeout, in the sixth for his ninth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber

Los Angeles Angels – Preserving a one-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, Kenley Jansen worked around Luis Rengifo’s error on Paul Goldschmidt’s grounder by retiring the next three batters, including a game-ending strikeout of Anthony Volpe for his 15th save. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). It’s his first save since June 7 and his fourth this month.

  • Connor Brogdon stranded two runners while retiring Aaron Judge and Cody Bellinger for his second hold.
  • Ryan Zeferjahn appeared in a third straight game, giving up a walk and a hit batter during his one-third of the eighth, getting credit for his 14th hold.
  • Héctor Neris retired both batters and recorded a strikeout at the bottom of the seventh. He was awarded his third win, following his team’s rally at the top of the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Reid Detmers | Ryan Zeferjahn

Tampa Bay Rays – Capping a crazy come-from-behind win, Pete Fairbanks retired the side while preserving a four-run lead. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%) while striking out one.

He has posted a 1.16 WHIP with 26 strikeouts through 29.1 innings.

  • Forrest Whitley worked a clean eighth.
  • Mason Montgomery collected his first win, firing a clean seventh and striking out one.
  • Garrett Cleavinger logged two scoreless frames, hitting a batter and recording a strikeout.
  • Edwin Uceta tossed a clean fourth, striking out one. He has been scoreless in nine of his last ten appearances.

Hierarchy Remains: Pete Fairbanks |Edwin Uceta | Mason Montgomery

Quick Hits

  • Atlanta Braves: Completing a combined shutout and stranding an inherited runner, Raisel Iglesias retired his only batter on a fielder’s choice groundout, throwing two pitches, both strikes. He has been scoreless in his last four appearances.
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: Taking the baton from Emmet Sheehan at the top of the fifth, Justin Wrobleski logged five innings, giving up four hits and two runs (one earned) while striking out three. He collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off home run at the bottom of the ninth, but the most significant part of his outing was providing the bullpen with a much-needed rest day.
  • New York Yankees: A tough-luck loss for Fernando Cruz, though he allowed too much traffic. He stranded two runners at the top of the seventh, retiring two batters, but struggled with his command during the eighth, issuing three walks while striking out one before his removal. Tim Hill took over and induced a potential inning-ending groundout, but Anthony Volpe committed an error, letting the eventual game-winning run score. Hill logged 1.2 scoreless frames and recorded a strikeout while Cruz was tagged with his third loss.
  • San Francisco Giants: Appearing during a loss, Camilo Doval fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout while facing Cleveland’s 7-8-9 lineup pocket. He threw 14 pitches (9 strikes – 64.3 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). This was his first outing in a week, and he last posted a save on June 10.
  • Toronto Blue Jays: Closing a seven-run margin, Chad Green worked around a hit and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless top of the ninth. Justin Bruihl allowed a hit while striking out two in a scoreless eighth. Yariel Rodríguez notched his ninth hold, logging two clean frames and striking out one on 21 pitches (12 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) with four whiffs (19 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.

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

Monkey Bytes | June 18

Tuesday provided its moments of high-leverage intrigue, but included nine games decided by four runs or more. Relievers recorded five wins and four saves while suffering five losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BBBF
Emilio Pagán17185016.72:25
Emmanuel Clase152070151:16
Tanner Scott141369.27.71:03
Daniel Palencia71163.69.11:04

Only the reliever working in a third straight game turned in the only clean save on the slate. For the save streamers, a light forecast:

Vulture Save Option for June 18

  • Kirby Yates (LAD): Scott has pitched in three-straight contests, and Kopech in three of the last four. Alex Vesia could also factor in based on lineup pockets, but hedging on Yates. 

Vulture Save Stashes for June 19

  • Seranthony Domínguez (BAL): If Bautista pitches today, it’s back-to-back games. 
  • Tony Santillan (CIN): He has appeared in three of the previous four and should be unavailable today. If Pagán pitches today, it will be consecutive outings. 
  • Yariel Rodríguez (TOR): If Hoffman works in today’s contest, it will be consecutive appearances. 

Three Takeaways

(1) Scott silences his critics: Not only did Tanner Scott lock down his 14th save, he retired San Diego’s 3-4-5 hitters in order while recording one strikeout. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and induced one whiff against the 3-4-5 lineup pocket.

In his last eight games, he has posted a win, four saves, and a hold with a minuscule 0.25 WHIP while striking out 11 (42.3 K%) against zero walks. When Dave Roberts frustrates fantasy managers with his match-up-based usage patterns, remember outings like this one by Scott, he remains the preferred option for saves when situations allow.

Updated Hierarchy: *Tanner Scott | *Kirby Yates | *Michael Kopech

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

(2) Shelby serving up dingers: It was not the outing that savvy fantasy players who added Shelby Miller hoped for in Toronto. Taking over at the bottom of the ninth with a one-run lead, he retired Davis Schneider via strikeout, then allowed consecutive home runs by Bo Bichette and Addison Barger, resulting in his second loss and a fourth blown save, snapping his eight-game scoreless streak.

Both home runs were on inside splitters at the bottom third of the strike zone. Miller had been scoreless in his previous eight appearances since May 28, so this may be a blip. However, if the team sells at the trade deadline, he could be moved. Keep tabs on Juan Morillo. He worked a scoreless eighth, allowing a hit and recording three strikeouts on 18 pitches (14 strikes – 77.8 Strike%) with four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

He has the velocity and, with more seasoning, could be this team’s Daniel Palencia by the All-Star break.

Hierarchy Remains: Shelby Miller | Jalen Beeks | Juan Morillo

(3) Vest cleared for action: It appears fantasy players dodged a bullet if they have Will Vest on their roster. He did not pitch last night, but will avoid an injured-list stint for now:

His upcoming appearances will be monitored closely. From Tuesday’s game, finishing a four-run win over the Pirates, Brenan Hanifee retired the side on 11 pitches (54.5 Strike%). Tommy Kahnle fired a clean eighth and recorded a strikeout against the 9-1-2 lineup pocket. Chase Lee worked a clean seventh while striking out one for his second hold.

Hierarchy Remains: *Will Vest | *Tommy Kahnle | Tyler Holton

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

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Tuesday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Atlanta Braves – Tasked with the top of the tenth versus the Mets’ 6-7-8 hitters, Raisel Iglesias retired the side while recording a strikeout, stranding the “place” runner. He collected his fourth win courtesy of his teammates’ walk-off rally at the bottom of the frame. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%), extending his scoreless streak to three games.

  • Dylan Lee worked a scoreless ninth, allowing a hit and striking out one on 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) with two whiffs versus the 3-4-5 lineup pocket. Over his last nine appearances, he has allowed one unearned run while posting a 0.50 WHIP with 13 strikeouts against one walk (34.2 K-BB%).
  • Pierce Johnson retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the seventh. 

Updated Hierarchy: *Dylan Lee | *Raisel Iglesias | Pierce Johnson

*= closer-by-committee

Baltimore Orioles – Preserving a four-run win, Félix Bautista retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the bottom of the ninth, in a non-save capacity in Tampa Bay. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%) while facing the 6-7-8 lineup pocket.

During his current seven-game scoreless streak, he has converted all five save chances with a 0.857 WHIP despite issuing five walks (18.5 BB%) against 11 strikeouts (40.7 K%).

  • Bryan Baker notched his eighth hold, yielding a hit during a scoreless eighth.
  • Gregory Soto stranded two runners and retired his only batter via strikeout in the seventh, securing his 16th hold.
  • Keegan Akin logged 1.2 scoreless frames, allowing two hits and a walk while striking out one for his 11th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Félix Bautista | Seranthony Domínguez | Bryan Baker

Chicago Cubs –Shutting the door on his seventh save, Daniel Palencia navigated around Jackson Chourio’s two-out double with a game-ending flyout against William Contreras for his seventh save. He threw 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff (9.1 SwStr%) while striking out one.

Since May 21, he has recorded a loss while converting seven of eight save chances with a 0.973 WHIP and 13 strikeouts against three walks (23.9 K-BB%) across 11.1 innings.

  • Caleb Thielbar retired the side and recorded two strikeouts for his seventh hold in the eighth.
  • Brad Keller secured his 11th hold with a scoreless seventh, walking and striking out one.
  • Génesis Cabera gave up two hits and an earned run while striking out one in the sixth, getting credit for his first hold. 

Updated Hierarchy: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Ryan Pressly

Cincinnati Reds – Protecting a one-run margin, Emilio Pagán navigated around two walks with two strikeouts for a scoreless ninth, securing his 17th save. He took over against the Twins’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket, throwing 18 pitches (50 Strike%) and inducing three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

This extends his scoreless streak to six games, during which he has recorded four saves, one hold, and not allowed a hit; however, he has issued four walks (18.2 BB%) to his last 22 batters.

  • Tony Santillan fired a clean eighth, striking out two on 19 pitches (13 strikes – 68.4 Strike%) with three whiffs for his 15th hold.
  • Scott Barlow picked up his second win, retiring all four batters, two via strikeout.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Cleveland Guardians – During a traffic-infused outing, Emmanuel Clase held on for his 15th save, finishing a one-run win in San Francisco. Taking over against the top of the lineup, he allowed Jung Hoo Lee’s lead-off single, retired Willy Adames, gave up a single by Rafael Devers, and walked Heliot Ramos, loading the bases with one out. Bearing down, Clase retired Dominic Smith via flyout and a game-ending strikeout of Casey Schmitt, throwing 20 pitches (70 Strike%) with three whiffs (15 SwStr%). His results chart displayed too many pitches in the heart of the zone:

  • Hunter Gaddis also allowed two hits and a walk with one strikeout across 1.1 scoreless frames, getting credit for his 16th hold.
  • Cade Smith worked a scoreless combined inning, giving up a hit and striking out one, securing his 13th hold.
  • Matt Festa notched his fourth hold, yielding a hit and striking out one during two-thirds of the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Miami Marlins – Closing a five-run win over the Phillies, Calvin Faucher worked around J.T. Realmuto’s lead-off single by retiring the next three batters, including a game-ending strikeout of Brandon Marsh. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to eight, during which he has converted all five save chances with a 0.75 WHIP through eight innings.

  • Anthony Bender notched his 11th hold, giving up a hit during a scoreless eighth.
  • Tyler Phillips tossed a clean seventh and recorded one strikeout.
  • Freddy Tarnok collected his first win, retiring the side and striking out one at the top of the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Calvin Faucher | Anthony Bender | Ronny Henriquez

New York Mets – Taking over a tied game at the bottom of the tenth, Huascar Brazobán suffered his second loss. His outing began with an intentional walk to Ronald Acuña Jr., followed by Alex Verdugo’s pop-out, but a wild pitch put the “place” runner on third and another walk (Matt Olson) loaded the bases ahead of Austin Riley’s walk-off sacrifice fly, resulting in his second loss.

  • Edwin Díaz fired a clean ninth, striking out one on 17 pitches (10 strikes – 58.8 Strike%) with two whiffs (11.8 SwStr%). He has been scoreless in five of six appearances this month, recording a win and converting three of four save chances.
  • Reed Garrett suffered his fourth blown save, giving up two hits and an earned run while striking out one in the eighth. 

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Reed Garrett | Huascar Brazobán

San Diego Padres – An untimely implosion by Jeremiah Estrada resulted in his fourth loss. He took over a tied contest at the bottom of the sixth and allowed five hits, including Will Smith’s go-ahead two-run home run. Estrada’s final line of five hits and five earned runs without recording an out moved his WHIP to 1.31 through 32 innings.

  • Yuki Matsui let both inherited runners score, allowing a hit, a hit batter, and a walk while striking out two in the sixth.
  • Jason Adam worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit.
  • Sean Reynolds gave up a hit and a walk during one-third of the eighth.
  • Adrian Morejon stranded two runners, retiring both batters, one via strikeout, at the bottom of the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

Toronto Blue Jays – After issuing a lead-off walk, Jeff Hoffman recorded an out, picked the runner off at first, and produced an inning-ending groundout by Eugenio Suárez, keeping his team within one. He collected his sixth win following his team’s rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 10 pitches (60 Strike%) and produced one whiff (10 SwStr%).

Through seven appearances this month, he has two wins while converting four saves with a 0.877 WHIP with seven strikeouts versus two walks (28.5 K-BB%) over 5.2 innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Yariel Rodríguez | Chad Green

Quick Hits

  • Colorado Rockies: Summoned with a runner on first and two outs, Victor Vodnik gave up a hit and induced a game-ending flyout, preserving a five-run win. Anthony Molina allowed six hits, including two home runs and five earned runs, during his 1.2 innings.
  • Los Angeles Angels: Completing a combined shutout, Hunter Strickland worked around a walk and recorded a strikeout in a non-save appearance. Reid Detmers fired a clean eighth and recorded two strikeouts. He extended his scoreless streak to 13 games, posting a 0.846 WHIP with 21 strikeouts against five walks (33.4 K-BB%) across 13 innings. 
  • Minnesota Twins: A rare rough outing for Brock Stewart ended his seven-game scoreless stretch. He allowed three hits, two earned runs, and two walks while striking out one during two-thirds of the sixth, resulting in his first loss and blown save. Justin Topa stranded all three inherited runners, preventing the outing from being worse.
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Entering at the bottom of the sixth, Carmen Mlodzinski was tagged with his fifth loss, allowing four hits, four earned runs, a hit batter, and a walk while striking out two across two innings.
  • Seattle Mariners: Completing a combined shutout, Andrés Muñoz allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts at the top of the ninth, during a non-save appearance. He had not pitched previously since June 9. He threw 18 pitches (14 strikes – 77.8 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (22.2 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.

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

Monkey Bytes | June 17

Monday’s seven-game slate provided plenty of actionable, high-leverage content and results. Relievers recorded four wins and five saves, including a career-first, while suffering three losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BBBF
Aroldis Chapman131376.953.83:03
Seth Halvorsen41553.300:03
Kirby Yates2109000:03
Orion Kerkering112758.31:03
Hunter Strickland1110000:01

Hierarchical Update – Philadelphia Phillies

Understanding Phillies manager Rob Thomson prefers not to label a reliever the closer while operating his “floating closer” concept; they are deployed in matchup-based circumstances, depending on the situation and lineup. Even though Jordan Romano recorded seven saves in 12 appearances between April 27 and May 29, he has been appearing in lower-leverage outings since allowing a run in three consecutive games at the onset of June. His struggles opened the door for larger leverage roles by his teammates.

Last night, Orion Kerkering retired the side and recorded a strikeout, throwing 12 pitches (75 Strike%) with one whiff at the bottom of the ninth in Miami, preserving a three-run lead for his first career save.

This extended his scoreless streak to six, during which he posted this save and a win with a 0.877 WHIP while striking out seven against two walks (17.4 K-BB%) across 5.2 innings. Matt Strahm allowed two hits and an earned run on a sacrifice fly, getting credit for his ninth hold. Jordan Romano tossed a scoreless seventh, hitting a batter and recording two strikeouts while securing his sixth hold. Taijuan Walker notched his first hold, retiring the side and striking out one in the sixth.

From a fantasy lens, Kerkering has moved up Rob Thomson’s trust tree. It’s tough designating anyone as the closer in this leverage ladder, but if Kerkering is on waivers, it’s time to make the move and hope he emerges as the preferred option. This remains listed as a shared situation, and we await how it will evolve.

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

*= “floating closer” concept with Kerkering potentially taking over the preferred save share. 

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for June 17

  • Michael Kopech (LAD): Scott, Yates, and Vesia have all pitched in consecutive contests. 
  • Tyler Ferguson (ATH): Miller has appeared in back-to-back games. 
  • Reid Detmers (LAA): Jansen has pitched the two previous days. 

Vulture Save Stashes for June 18

  • Garrett Whitlock (BOS): If Chapman pitches tonight, it will be consecutive appearances. 
  • Mark Leiter Jr. (NYY): If Williams works in tonight’s game, it’s back-to-back games. 

Here are the remaining high-leverage events of interest from Monday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Boston Red Sox – Shutting the door on his 13th save and a combined shutout, Aroldis Chapman fired a clean bottom of the ninth in Seattle by striking out the side. He threw 13 pitches (76.9 Strike%) and generated seven whiffs (53.8 SwStr%) while facing the 5-6-7 lineup pocket.

Through eight outings in June, he has converted all five save chances, allowing an unearned run and a minuscule 0.286 WHIP with 11 strikeouts versus one walk (43.5 K-BB%) across seven innings.

  • Greg Weissert worked around two walks and recorded a strikeout in the eighth for his 13th hold.
  • Justin Wilson notched his tenth hold, walking and striking out one in the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Greg Weissert | Garrett Whitlock

Colorado Rockies – Handed a two-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, Seth Halvorsen navigated around Luis García Jr.’s lead-off walk by inducing a double play grounder by Brady House and a game-ending Josh Bell groundout for his fourth save. He threw 15 pitches (8 strikes – 53.3 Strike%) without a whiff.

It’s his second save this month, during which he has been scoreless in five of six appearances with a 1.00 WHIP and six strikeouts against two walks (19.9 K-BB%) through six innings.

  • Victor Vodnik collected his second win, issuing a walk during a scoreless eighth.
  • Jimmy Herget tossed a scoreless seventh.
  • Juan Mejia logged 1.1 clean frames and recorded two strikeouts.

Updated Hierarchy: Seth Halvorsen | Victor Vodnik | Jake Bird

Los Angeles Angels – Summoned with the bases loaded and two outs at the bottom of the 11th, Hunter Strickland induced a game-ending fielder’s choice groundout against Anthony Volpe for his first save of 2025 and the 30th of his career. Brock Burke began the 11th by issuing Aaron Judge an intentional walk, recorded an out, had a hitter reach on a fielder’s choice, cutting down the “place” runner at home, and was removed after Jazz Chisolm’s single, getting credit for his ninth hold.

  • Ryan Zeferjahn collected his fourth win, retiring the side and striking out one during the tenth.
  • Kenley Jansen navigated around Giancarlo Stanton’s lead-off double with two strikeouts and a fielder’s choice groundout. He threw 22 pitches (18 strikes – 81.8 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).
  • Reid Detmers worked a scoreless eighth, walking and striking out one. He has been scoreless in his last 12 appearances, posting a 0.917 WHIP with 19 strikeouts versus five walks (31.1 K-BB%).

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Reid Detmers | Ryan Zeferjahn

Los Angeles Dodgers – Capping his team’s comeback rally, Kirby Yates notched his second save by retiring San Diego’s 6-7-8 lineup pocket in order on 10 pitches (90 Strike%) without a whiff.

He has been scoreless in four of five appearances in June, recording a win, this save, and three holds.

  • Tanner Scott faced the 3-4-5 hitters during the highest-leveraged moment at the top of the eighth, retiring them in order while striking out one on seven pitches, all strikes, without a whiff. He’s given up an unearned run during his last seven games with a 0.286 WHIP and ten strikeouts (43.5 K-BB%).
  • Michael Kopech notched his second hold, yielding a hit and striking out one during a scoreless seventh.
  • Alex Vesia stranded a runner while retiring both batters in the sixth, one via strikeout for his 13th hold. 

Updated Hierarchy: *Tanner Scott | *Kirby Yates | *Michael Kopech

*= closer-by-committee using a match-up-based approach. 

New York Yankees – Forced into a two-inning outing, Jonathan Loáisiga suffered his first loss, giving up Nolan Schanuel’s one-out RBI double at the top of the 11th. He navigated around an intentional walk (Mike Trout) and another walk with consecutive lineouts. He finished with a hit, an unearned run, and two walks while striking out two.

  • Devin Williams gave up two hits and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless top of the ninth, keeping the game tied. He threw 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).
  • Fernando Cruz stranded his only inherited runner, striking out his only batter at the top of the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Devin Williams | Mark Leiter Jr. | Fernando Cruz

The Athletics – Matched up against Houston’s 4-5-6 lineup pocket at the top of the ninth during a tied contest, Mason Miller retired the side and recorded two strikeouts. He collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off home run at the bottom of the inning. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (40 SwStr%).

Emerging from his rough patch, he has been scoreless in seven of eight appearances since May 25 with a 0.805 WHIP and 10 strikeouts versus four walks (19.4 K-BB %) across 8.2 innings.

  • J.T. Ginn logged three scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out five. 

Hierarchy Remains: Mason Miller | Tyler Ferguson | T.J. McFarland

Washington Nationals – Taking over with a one-run lead against Colorado’s 3-4-5 lineup pocket, Kyle Finnegan suffered his fifth blown save, giving up Hunter Goodman’s lead-off home run, Thairo Estrada’s one-out single, followed by Sam Hilliard stealing second as the pinch runner, and scoring on Mickey Moniak’s go-ahead two-run home run, resulting in his second loss. He finished with three hits and three earned runs while recording two strikeouts. Both hitters turned on inside pitches:

This snapped his four-game scoreless streak in June. Through 26 games, he has a 1.31 WHIP with 21 strikeouts in 26 innings.

  • Brad Lord logged two clean frames while striking out two. He threw 22 pitches (16 strikes – 72.7 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (22.7 SwStr%). 

Hierarchy Remains: Kyle Finnegan | Jose A. Ferrer | Brad Lord

Quick Hits

  • Baltimore Orioles: Appearing during a loss, Gregory Soto fired a clean bottom of the sixth, striking out the side on 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and generating five whiffs (27.8 SwStr%). Colin Selby logged two scoreless frames, scattering two hits and striking out five.
  • Houston Astros: Called upon at the bottom of the ninth during a tied game, Bryan Abreu issued Brent Rooker a lead-off walk, followed by Nick Kurtz’s walk-off two-run home run, resulting in his third loss. This snapped Abreu’s eight-game scoreless streak since May 24. Bryan King worked a scoreless eighth, allowing a hit and striking out one.
  • Tampa Bay Rays: During his team debut, Forrest Whitley finished a six-run win over the Orioles by retiring the side on 12 pitches (75 Strike%) with one whiff while facing the 1-2-3 hitters.

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

Closer Monkey Rankings Updates | 6.16.2025

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.

Relievers on the Rise

  • David Bednar (PIT): Over his last 12 appearances, he has a 1-1 record while converting all seven save chances with 13 strikeouts versus three walks (25.6 K-BB percentage) and a 0.748 WHIP across 10.2 innings. With his trade stock rising, will the Pirates finally cash in on the veteran reliever under team control through 2026?
  • Calvin Faucher (MIA): It’s with some trepidation, but he has converted five saves since May 28, including his last three appearances. In this eight-game sample, he has posted a 0.857 WHIP with four strikeouts against one walk. His results do not stand out; however, for those seeking savings, there are worse options.

With news surfacing he may not miss time, Will Vest has been added to our rankings. These were updated on Tuesday (6.17) at 2:00 p.m. EST.

Updated Top 40 Relievers for Saves

RankRelievers
1Josh Hader
2Edwin Díaz
3Andrés Muñoz
4Robert Suarez
5Emmanuel Clase
6Tanner Scott
7Félix Bautista
8Aroldis Chapman
9Devin Williams
10David Bednar
11Mason Miller
12Trevor Megill
13Jhoan Durán
14Carlos Estévez
15Emilio Pagán
16Ryan Helsley
17Pete Fairbanks
18Kenley Jansen
19Daniel Palencia
20Camilo Doval
21Will Vest
22Jeff Hoffman
23Shelby Miller
24Calvin Faucher
25Dylan Lee
26Orion Kerkering
27Matt Strahm
28Kyle Finnegan
29Robert Garcia
30Kirby Yates
31Tony Santillan
32Tommy Kahnle
33Randy Rodríguez
34Reid Detmers
35Yariel Rodríguez
36Bryan Baker
37Garrett Whitlock
38Seth Halvorsen
39Alex Vesia
40Michael Kopech

Save Stashes

  • Abner Uribe (MIL)
  • Grant Taylor (CHW)

Top 75 for SOLDS

RankReliever
1Josh Hader
2Edwin Díaz
3Andrés Muñoz
4Robert Suarez
5Emmanuel Clase
6Cade Smith
7Bryan Abreu
8Griffin Jax
9Abner Uribe
10Tanner Scott
11Randy Rodríguez
12Jhoan Durán
13Carlos Estévez
14Jason Adam
15Devin Williams
16Emilio Pagán
17Mason Miller
18Aroldis Chapman
19Tyler Rogers
20Bryan King
21Félix Bautista
22Trevor Megill
23David Bednar
24Will Vest
25Tommy Kahnle
26Lucas Erceg
27Daniel Palencia
28Reid Detmers
29Louis Varland
30Ryan Helsley
31Tony Santillan
32Yariel Rodríguez
33Edwin Uceta
34Shelby Miller
35Dylan Lee
36Orion Kerkering
37Matt Strahm
38Robert Garcia
39Kenley Jansen
40Camilo Doval
41Jeremiah Estrada
42Pete Fairbanks
43Jeff Hoffman
44Kirby Yates
45Reed Garrett
46Phil Maton
47Matt Brash
48Serathony Domínguez
49Alex Vesia
50Jordan Romano
51Kyle Finnegan
52Hunter Gaddis
53Garrett Whitlock
54Huascar Brazobán
55Brock Stewart
56Greg Weissert
57Michael Kopech
58Mason Montgomery
59Mark Leiter Jr.
60Dennis Santana
61Brad Keller
62Garrett Cleavinger
63Bryan Baker
64Luke Jackson
65Drew Pomeranz
66Jared Koenig
67Raisel Iglesias
68Tyler Holton
69Gregory Soto
70JoJo Romero
71Justin Wilson
72Chris Martin
73Yennier Cano
74Angel Zerpa
75Ryan Zeferjahn

Relievers on the Rise

  • Tony Santillan (CIN): He has been scoreless through six appearances in June, recording a win, a save, and two holds with a minuscule 0.351 WHIP and five strikeouts versus one walk across 5.2 innings.
  • Angel Zerpa (KC): Could he be who fantasy managers hoped Daniel Lynch IV would be? Zerpa has racked up 12 strikeouts against three walks (25.7 K-BB%) with a 0.619 WHIP in 9.2 scoreless frames this month.

Top 50 for Holds

RankReliever
1Jason Adam
2Tyler Rogers
3Abner Uribe
4Bryan Abreu
5Griffin Jax
6Cade Smith
7Randy Rodríguez
8Bryan King
9Louis Varland
10Phil Maton
11Tony Santillan
12Seranthony Domínguez
13Jeremiah Estrada
14Edwin Uceta
15Reid Detmers
16Reed Garrett
17Hunter Gaddis
18Michael Kopech
19Alex Vesia
20Kirby Yates
21Yariel Rodríguez
22Bryan Baker
23Matt Brash
24Mark Leiter Jr.
25Drew Pomeranz
26Brad Keller
27Garrett Whitlock
28Orion Kerkering
29Matt Strahm
30Dennis Santana
31Greg Weissert
32Chris Martin
33John Schreiber
34Jared Koenig
35Garrett Cleavinger
36Adrian Morejon
37Mason Montgomery
38Ryan Zeferjahn
39Yennier Cano
40Justin Wilson
41Ryan Walker
42Brendon Little
43Fernando Cruz
44Jose A. Ferrer
45Hoby Milner
46Chad Green
47Luke Jackson
48Anthony Bender
49Gregory Soto
50Jake Bird

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.

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

BaseballSavant.com