Monkey Bytes | June 11

It was a slippery slate that featured relievers accruing five wins and eight saves, including a career first, and suffering five losses on Tuesday. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BB
Jeff Hoffman17210000:0
Trevor Megill131266.716.72:0
Will Vest112070151:0
Camilo Doval102263.69.10:1
Calvin Faucher51566.76.71:0
Brandon Eisert21070201:0
Bryce Jarvis15754.45.32:2
Greg Weissert1757.100:0

For the save streamers, there are limited options for today, and today’s usage patterns will determine those for Thursday.

Vulture Save Options for June 11

  • Randy Rodríguez (SF): Doval threw 22 pitches during a save last night and has appeared four times over the previous six days, logging 77 pitches. 
  • Yariel Rodríguez (TOR): Hoffman has worked in back-to-back games and four of the last five. 
  • Seth Halvorsen (COL): Agnos threw 26 pitches last night and 49 in the previous three days. 

Three Takeaways

(1) J-Mart seeks a second opinion: Not only will Corbin Burnes undergo Tommy John surgery, but Justin Martinez and the team will seek a second opinion regarding his elbow prognosis of a strained ulnar collateral ligament, according to Steve Gilbert from this post at MLB.com:

For now, plan on an extended absence, but if he undergoes surgery, it also places his 2026 season in jeopardy.

Updated Hierarchy: Shelby Miller | Jalen Beeks | Juan Morillo

(2) Reid’s rolling: After retiring the side and striking out two at the top of the tenth, Reid Detmers collected his second win on his team’s walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to ten games, during which he has a 1.00 WHIP with 16 strikeouts versus four walks (31.6 K-BB%). Kenley Jansen worked a scoreless ninth, allowing Tyler Soderstrom’s lead-off single before retiring the next three batters. Through six appearances in June, he has posted a win, three saves, and a 0.755 WHIP across 5.1 innings.

(3) Doval recorded the save, but: Navigating around two hits and a walk with a double play groundout and a game-ending flyout, Camilo Doval sealed his team’s comeback rally for his tenth save. He threw 22 pitches (14 strikes – 63.6 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (9.1 SwStr%).

Since May 7, he has converted five of six save opportunities but with a 1.818 WHIP while recording 10 strikeouts against six walks (11.5 K-BB%) through 7.2 innings. He rode a hot streak back into the closer role, but his results have regressed:

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Tuesday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Boston Red SoxLocking down his first save of the season and the second of his career, Greg Weissert retired the side against the Rays’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket. He threw seven pitches (57.1 Strike%) without a whiff.

He has been scoreless in seven of his last eight games, posting a 0.411 WHIP with six strikeouts against zero walks across 7.1 innings.

  • Garrett Whitlock worked two clean frames and recorded three strikeouts on 22 pitches (16 strikes – 72.7 Strike%) with two whiffs for his fifth hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Greg Weissert | Justin Wilson

Chicago White Sox – Another round of reliever roulette with Will Venable resulted in Brandon Eisert taking over at the bottom of the ninth with a two-run lead in Houston. He retired the side and recorded a strikeout, securing his second save and making him the team leader in the category. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (20 SwStr%) versus the 7-8-9 hitters.

  • Steven Wilson allowed two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one in the eighth, getting credit for his eighth hold.
  • Grant Taylor made his major league debut, retiring the side at the bottom of the seventh on 12 pitches (83.3 Strike%) without a whiff.

Updated Hierarchy: *Brandon Eisert | *Dan Altavilla | *Grant Taylor

*= closer-by-committee

Colorado Rockies – For a team on a historic path of ineptitude, losing close games at home makes it feel worse. Zach Agnos took over with a three-run lead at the top of the ninth against the Giants, allowing a lead-off home run by Casey Schmitt and issuing two walks. After inducing a fielder’s choice groundout and retiring the lead runner, he threw a wild pitch, putting both runners in scoring position, followed by a walk and his removal.

Victor Vodnik inherited a bases-loaded situation with one out, giving up a sacrifice fly, a game-tying infield single by Wilmer Flores, and a go-ahead RBI single by Mike Yastrzemski, ceding the lead before an inning-ending groundout. Agnos gets tagged with his third loss and a third hold, while Vodnik is charged with his second blown save.

  • Before the ninth, Tyler Kinley notched his third hold with a clean eighth, striking out one.
  • Seth Halvorsen retired the side and recorded two strikeouts in the seventh for his fourth hold.
  • Jake Bird logged two clean frames, striking out five. 

Hierarchy Remains: Zach Agnos | Seth Halvorsen | Victor Vodnik

Detroit TigersDespite allowing Jordan Westburg’s solo home run, Will Vest secured his 11th hold, finishing a two-run win in Baltimore. He threw 20 pitches (70 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (15 SwStr%) while recording one strikeout. As we can see, the home run pitch was not in the heart of the strike zone:

His four-game scoreless streak was snapped, but he has converted his last seven save chances since May 18 with a 0.709 WHIP and 10 strikeouts against two walks across 12.2 innings.

  • Tommy Kahnle stranded a runner while walking and striking out one during one-third of the eighth, posting his ninth hold.
  • Sawyer Gibson-Long was awarded his first hold, logging 4.2 innings, giving up three hits and an earned run while striking out five.
  • Chase Lee collected his third win, retiring his only batter at the bottom of the third via strikeout.

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

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

Miami Marlins – Preserving a one-run margin at the bottom of the ninth, Calvin Faucher secured his fifth save despite hitting a batter. He also allowed Nick Gonzales’ single before retiring the next three Pirates’ hitters. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff while striking out one.

He owns a modest six-game scoreless streak, during which he has converted three saves with a 0.877 WHIP and three strikeouts versus one walk across 5.2 innings.

  • Ronny Henriquez gave up two hits, both solo home runs, and struck out one, getting credit for his eighth hold.
  • Anthony Bender retired the side on nine pitches for his eighth hold in the seventh.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Milwaukee Brewers – Shutting the door on his 13th save, Trevor Megill fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts against Atlanta’s 6-7-8 lineup pocket. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

He has converted three of four save chances this month.

  • Abner Uribe logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out one on 24 pitches (17 strikes – 70.8 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (12.5 SwStr%). This extended his scoreless streak to seven games.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

New York MetsAfter retiring the side at the top of the tenth and stranding the “place” runner, Reed Garrett collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the frame. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (36.3 SwStr%) while recording one strikeout.

Edwin Díaz fired a clean ninth and recorded two strikeouts on 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

He’s been scoreless in 15 of his last 16 appearances, posting a 0.675 WHIP with 25 strikeouts against five walks (33.4 K-BB%), two wins, and converted eight of nine save opportunities.

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Reed Garrett | Huascar Brazobán

Toronto Blue JaysSummoned with two runners on and two outs, Jeff Hoffman allowed Willson Contreras’ three-run home run and induced a game-ending groundout by Alec Burleson, getting credit for his 17th save while throwing two pitches.

He has converted his last four save chances but given up a home run in two of his previous three and has allowed eight this season.

  • Chad Green gave up four hits and three earned runs during his combined inning.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Yariel Rodríguez | Chad Green

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: Finishing a seven-run win, Bryce Jarvis logged three innings, allowing three hits, an earned run, and two walks while striking out two for his first career save. He threw 57 pitches (31 strikes – 54.4 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (5.3 SwStr%).
  • Chicago Cubs: Taking over at the bottom of the sixth, Caleb Thielbar retired the side and recorded one strikeout. He was awarded his second win. Brad Keller worked a clean seventh, striking out one for his ninth hold.
  • Philadelphia Phillies: Entering at the top of the sixth, Taijuan Walker allowed two hits, including Ian Happ’s go-ahead two-run home run, and recorded a strikeout, resulting in his fifth loss and first blown save. 
  • The Athletics: Entering a tied game at the bottom of the tenth, Hogan Harris suffered his first loss. He retired his first two batters, then intentionally walked Zach Neto ahead of Nolan Schanuel’s walk-off RBI single, scoring the “place” runner.

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Monkey Bytes | June 10

Monday’s nine-game slate featured five extra-inning games, a new injury for a Diamondbacks’ reliever, and a third consecutive blown save by last year’s saves leader. In all, relievers recorded six wins, two following a blown save, and converted three saves. They also suffered six losses across the nine contests. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BB
Jeff Hoffman16988.922.21:0
Emilio Pagán161457.114.32:1
Tanner Scott1216756.31:0

For the save streamers, pick your poison in two match-ups:

Vulture Save Options for June 10

  • Michael Kopech (LAD): Scott and Yates have appeared in back-to-back games. 
  • Jason Adam (SD): Suarez has pitched in three of the previous four. 
  • Edwin Uceta (TB): Fairbanks threw 30 pitches last night and appeared in three of the previous four games. 
  • Greg Weissert (BOS): Chapman has worked in three straight contests. 
  • Matt Brash (SEA): Muñoz has pitched in consecutive games. 
  • Chad Green (TOR): Hoffman has appeared in three of the last four and four of the previous six. 

Vulture Save Stashes for June 11

  • Tony Santillan (CIN): He will be off tonight, and if Pagán pitches, it will be consecutive appearances. 
  • Reid Detmers (LAA): If Jansen appears tonight, it’s back-to-back games. 
  • Orion Kerkering (PHI): He will be unavailable tonight, and if Romano pitches, he will be rested on Wednesday. 
  • Ryan Pressly (CHC): If he’s not used today and Palencia pitches, he could be in line for the save tomorrow. 

Three Takeaways

(1) J-Mart’s elbow: Justin Martinez entered the ninth with a four-run lead and recorded two strikeouts before issuing a walk and leaving the team’s trainer. As one can see, his velocity declined before his exit:

Alex Weiner of Arizona Sports updated Martinez’s status in this post:

Once more details emerge about Martinez’s MRI, the hierarchy will adjust. This could mean a larger role for Juan Morillo until A.J. Puk returns. If Shelby Miller was dropped in your league, add him now for saves in the interim. For now: 

Hierarchy Remains: *Justin Martinez | *Shelby Miller | Jalen Beeks

*= closer-by-committee

(2) Another blown save for Helsley: Ryan Helsley was tagged with his fifth blown save, and third in as many appearances in June, giving up two hits, including Jhonathan Clase’s game-tying solo home run in the ninth. He threw 24 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (12.5 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts. First, his pitch illustrator:

And his results:

Understanding it’s facing the ninth hitter, but that’s a cookie right down the middle with a four-seam fastball. This pitch has been a problem this season, especially when viewing his results with it based on count leverage:

Splits with 4-seamPitchesUsage%AVGxBASLGxSLGwOBAxwOBA
Batter Ahead7538.1.563.408.875.691.646.542
Batter Behind3919.8.143.238.143.322.127.241

It’s been a rough patch for Helsley; he has allowed multiple hits in four of his last five contests. Contact remains an issue for him and may affect his status ahead of the trade deadline unless these trends improve.

(3) Fairbanks and recent usage patterns: In his two previous seasons, Pete Fairbanks has logged 45.1 innings in each. He has not missed any time this year, but he threw 30 pitches in his first attempt at a four-out save last night. He took over at the bottom of the eighth and stranded his only inherited runner by striking out Jarren Duran. Returning for the ninth, he issued Devers a lead-off walk ahead of Abraham Toro’s double, then allowed a run on a fielder’s choice groundout and a game-tying RBI single by Kristian Campbell, tagging him with his second blown save. He finished with three hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one. Of more significant concern, are his recent workload and his teammates:

As a result, Kevin Cash placed their recently promoted reliever right into the fire. Ian Seymour made his MLB debut at the bottom of the tenth with a one-run lead. However, he suffered his first blown save after issuing Rafael Devers an intentional walk with two outs on an error by Jonathan Aranda, scoring the “place” runner. Seymour returned for the 11th and worked around a walk by retiring the next three batters for his first career win. Fantasy managers should monitor Fairbanks’ results closely as June progresses.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Monday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Boston Red SoxPressed into action at the top of the 11th, Zack Kelly suffered his third loss, giving up a hit, two runs (one earned), and three walks while striking out one.

Aroldis Chapman appeared for a third straight contest, letting the “place” runner score on a single and a sacrifice fly at the top of the tenth while recording two strikeouts. He threw 15 pitches (80 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (40 SwStr%). The unearned run snapped his six-game scoreless streak, during which he converted all three save chances.

  • Luis Guerero gave up a hit, an earned run, and two walks over 2.1 innings.
  • Brennan Bernardino allowed two hits, two earned runs, and a walk with one strikeout in one-third of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Greg Weissert | Justin Wilson

Chicago Cubs –Entering a tied contest at the bottom of the tenth, Daniel Palencia intentionally walked Kyle Schwarber, then induced Alec Bohm’s double-play groundout and an inning-ending groundout by Nick Castellanos. He returned for the 11th with a one-run lead but allowed J.T. Realmuto’s game-tying RBI single, scoring the “place” runner, followed by consecutive bunt singles and a walk-off Brandon Marsh RBI single, resulting in his second loss. He threw 14 pitches (85.7 Strike%) without a whiff.

  • Drew Pomeranz stranded a runner and retired both batters in the ninth.
  • Brad Keller scattered three hits over 1.1 scoreless frames.
  • Ryan Pressly tossed a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Drew Pomeranz

Cincinnati RedsAssuaging fantasy manager’s fears, Emilio Pagán converted his 16th save, working around Bo Naylor’s lead-off walk with two strikeouts sandwiched around a flyout, preserving the three-run margin after not appearing in Sunday’s game. He threw 14 pitches (8 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).

He’s amid a four-game scoreless streak with three saves and six strikeouts against one walk (38.5 K-BB%) over 3.2 innings.

  • Tony Santillan appeared for a third consecutive day and recorded his 14th hold by retiring the side in the eighth.
  • Graham Ashcraft allowed Naylor’s solo home run and two walks while striking out two, getting credit for his ninth hold.
  • Ian Gibaut gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless sixth, securing his third hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Los Angeles Dodgers – Handed a two-run lead at the bottom of the tenth, Tanner Scott recorded a strikeout against Manny Machado, allowed Jackson Merrill’s RBI double, then bore down and retired Gavin Sheets (pop-out) and Xander Bogaerts (fly out) for his 12th save. He threw 16 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff (6.3 SwStr%).

He finished with a hit, an unearned run, and the strikeout. In his last four appearances, he’s only allowed the unearned run while posting a win and two saves.

  • Kirby Yates worked a scoreless ninth, issuing a walk and striking out, collecting his second win, throwing 20 pitches (60 Strike%) with four whiffs (20 SwStr%).
  • Alex Vesia tossed a clean eighth while striking out one.
  • Anthony Banda logged two clean frames and recorded one strikeout.

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

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

Philadelphia Phillies – At the top of the 11th, Carlos Hernández recorded an out, then gave up Pete Crow-Armstrong’s RBI double, scoring the “place” runner, and a wild pitch put him on third. However, Hernández struck out Dansby Swanson and induced an inning-ending groundout. He collected his first win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning.

Jordan Romano worked a clean tenth, retiring the Cubs’ 9-1-2 lineup pocket in order on an efficient seven pitches (71.4 Strike%).

  • Orion Kerkering worked a scoreless ninth, walking and striking out one.
  • Matt Strahm suffered his fourth blown save, giving up a game-tying solo home run by Ian Happ.
  • Tanner Banks secured his first hold with a clean seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Jordan Romano | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

*= floating closer concept with a preferred save share (Romano)

San Diego PadresAt the start of the tenth, Wandy Peralta allowed a lead-off RBI double by Andy Pages, scoring the “place” runner, and a Tommy Edman single before retiring the next three batters, resulting in his first loss, though his teammates rallied for one run at the bottom of the frame.

Robert Suarez fired a clean ninth and recorded one strikeout on 10 pitches (80 Strike%) with two whiffs (20 SwStr%). He has a nine-game scoreless streak since May 23 and has converted six saves in it while posting a 0.485 WHIP with 10 strikeouts versus zero walks (28.6 K-BB%) across 10.1 innings.

  • Adrian Morejon worked two-thirds scoreless in the eighth, walking one and striking out two.
  • Jeremiah Estrada logged 1.1 clean frames, striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

Seattle Mariners – Although he worked a scoreless tenth, things took a turn for the worst in the 11th for Carlos Vargas. He recorded a strikeout against Corbin Carroll, then intentionally walked Ketel Marte, followed by another walk (Geraldo Perdomo) to load the bases ahead of a walk-off Josh Naylor grand slam, resulting in his fifth loss. He finished with a hit, four runs (three earned), and three walks (two intentional) while striking out two during his 1.1 innings.

Andrés Muñoz retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the ninth, keeping the game tied. He threw eight pitches (87.5 Strike%) and produced one whiff (12.8 SwStr%).

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

Toronto Blue JaysHanded a one-run lead at the bottom of the tenth, Jeff Hoffman locked down his 16th save, retiring the side and striking out one against the Cardinals’ 1-2-3 lineup pocket. He threw nine pitches (88.9 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

He has converted three straight save chances and been scoreless in three of four games in June while recording seven strikeouts (43.8 K%) in 4.1 innings.

  • Yariel Rodríguez took over at the bottom of the eighth with two runners and two outs, giving up Willson Contreras’ RBI single, followed by a go-ahead three-run home run by Iván Herrera, snapping his 12-game scoreless streak. Rodríguez kept the game tied with a clean bottom of the ninth, recording two strikeouts and collecting his first win while being tagged with his first blown save.
  • Brendon Little allowed a hit, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out three during a combined inning, getting credit for his 12th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Yariel Rodríguez | Chad Green

Quick Hits

  • Atlanta Braves: Finishing a six-run win, Dylan Lee retired the side and recorded two strikeouts while facing Milwaukee’s 4-5-6 lineup pocket, throwing 15 pitches (60 Strike%) with four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%). This extended his scoreless streak to six games, during which he has posted a 0.143 WHIP with nine strikeouts against one walk (34.8 K-BB) through seven innings. Raisel Iglesias fired a clean eighth, striking out two on eight pitches (87.5 Strike%) and inducing three whiffs (37.5 SwStr%) against the top of the batting order.
  • Los Angeles Angels: Closing a three-run win with three pitches, Kenley Jansen does not get credit for a save since the tying run must be in the on-deck circle upon entry. He did quell the late rally by the A’s, inducing a game-ending Luis Urias’ groundout.
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Taking over at the top of the fifth, Caleb Ferguson logged two clean frames and recorded two strikeouts. He was awarded his second win despite having a two-run lead upon entry.
  • The Athletics: As the “bulk follower,” Jeffrey Springs suffered his fight loss, allowing five hits and four runs (three earned) while striking out eight over six innings.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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Closer Monkey Rankings Updates | 6.9.2025

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

  • Randy Rodríguez (SF): He’s amid a 16-game scoreless streak, during which he has a minuscule 0.539 WHIP with 27 strikeouts versus three walks (42.1 K-BB%) across 16.2 innings.
  • Michael Kopech (LAD): Made his season debut with a clean bottom of the ninth, preserving a four-run win over St. Louis while facing the 1-2-3 lineup pocket. There are no guarantees he will be accruing saves immediately, but this usage pattern paves the way for him to be the right-handed leverage complement to Tanner Scott.
  • Grant Taylor (CHW): He may be eased into leverage situations, but he was dominating as a reliever at Double-A. In his last nine appearances as one, he posted a 0.43 WHIP with 18 strikeouts against one walk (53.2 K-BB percentage) while recording a 27.3 swinging strike percentage. He’s been on the stash list for over two weeks. Updated White Hierarchy

What to Watch For (W2W4)

  • Atlanta Braves: Will Brian Snitker keep Raisel Iglesias out of save chances or can the veteran work his way back into the trust tree? Who gets the next save chance? Dylan Lee? The “General Lee”? Me?
  • Chicago White Sox: How long will it take for Grant Taylor to receive a save chance?

Updated Top 40 (adjusted 6.14)

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

Saves Stashes

  • Grant Taylor (CHW)
  • A.J. Puk (ARI)
  • Abner Uribe (MIL)

Updated Top 75 for SOLDS

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

Relievers on the Rise

  • Reid Detmers (LAA): He’s been scoreless in his last nine appearances, securing six holds with a 1.11 WHIP and 14 strikeouts versus four walks (28.5 K-BB%).
  • Steven Cruz (KC): It’s wishful thinking, but he deserves a larger leverage share. He has allowed one earned run in his last five games, posting 12 strikeouts against zero walks (50 K-BB%) across 6.2 innings. However, he only has one hold in this sample, along with a win.

Updated Top for 50 Holds

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

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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

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Statistical Credits:

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Monkey Bytes | June 9

Sunday’s slate provided seven wins by relievers and ten saves while getting tagged with four losses. There was a career-first save, covered in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BB
Robert Suarez211770.65.91:0
Carlos Estévez191866.711.11:1
Andrés Muñoz181855.622.22:1
Emmanuel Clase14125000:0
Aroldis Chapman11310033.31:0
Jhoan Durán101668.812.51:0
Camilo Doval91770.65.92:0
Robert Garcia42075202:0
Tony Santillan2710042.91:0
Paul Blackburn17166.214.13:1

Dodgers hierarchical adjustment

Making his season debut, Michael Kopech finished a four-run win over the Cardinals with a scoreless ninth. He allowed Ryan Vilade’s lead-off single, then retired the 1-2-3 hitters in order, one via strikeout. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff (11.1 SwStr%).

Tanner Scott worked a clean eighth facing the 6-7-8 hitters and matched up with Alec Burleson. Kirby Yates stranded one of two runners, giving up an RBI single by Willson Contreras and retiring Iván Herrera via groundout for his ninth hold.

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

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

For the save streamers, though occasionally they are win streams (two yesterday):

Vulture Save Options for June 9

  • Hunter Gaddis (CLE): Clase and Smith have appeared in consecutive contests. 
  • Anthony Bender (MIA): Faucher and Henriquez have pitched in back-to-back games. 

Vulture Save Stashes for June 10

  • Jason Adam (SD): If Suarez pitches tonight, Adam will be in line for Tuesday since he will be unavailable today after working in back-to-back games. 
  • Edwin Uceta (TB): If Pete Fairbanks pitches on Monday, it will be three of the previous four days and five of seven. 
  • Matt Brash (SEA): He should get Monday off, and if Muñoz pitches, it will be consecutive appearances. 

Here are the leverage events of interest from Sunday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Boston Red SoxPressed into action with runners on the corners and two outs, Aroldis Chapman nailed down his 11th save, retiring his only batter faced (Anthony Volpe) on a three-pitch strikeout, all strikes, with one whiff. He has been scoreless in his last six appearances, converting three saves while recording seven strikeouts against one walk with a 0.377 WHIP over 5.1 innings.

  • Robert Stock created the save chance, allowing a hit, two earned runs, and three walks while striking out one during two-thirds of the ninth.
  • Greg Weissert stranded two runners and retired both batters in the eighth, one on a strikeout for his 11th hold.
  • Zack Kelly gave up two hits in one-third of the eighth.
  • Justin Wilson notched his seventh hold, yielding a hit and striking out two in the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Greg Weissert | Justin Wilson

Cincinnati RedsAlthough on the same appearance schedule, it was Tony Santillan entering at the top of the ninth with a two-run lead, not Emilio Pagán. He shut the door on his second save, retiring the side and recording a strikeout on seven pitches, all strikes while producing three whiffs (42.9 SwStr%).

  • Taylor Rogers logged two clean frames and recorded three strikeouts, earning his second win.
  • Scott Barlow fired a clean sixth and struck out one, keeping the contest tied.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Cleveland GuardiansSecuring his 14th save, Emmanuel Clase worked around consecutive one-out singles, putting runners on the corners with a flyout and a game-ending groundout. He threw 12 pitches (50 Strike%) without a whiff.

This extends his scoreless streak to a modest five games, and he has converted ten straight save chances since April 30 with a 0.828 WHIP while recording 19 strikeouts versus two walks (27.4 K-BB%) across 15.2 innings.

  • Cade Smith earned his second win, stranding a runner in the seventh and logging 1.2 clean frames while racking up three strikeouts.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Kansas City Royals – Forced into action with the bases loaded and no outs against the White Sox, Carlos Estévez allowed an RBI single by Edgar Quero, benefited from a terrific catch by Bobby Witt Jr. on a line drive, retired Luis Robert Jr. on a groundout, letting a second inherited runner score. With two outs, he issued Josh Rojas a walk before a game-ending strikeout of Tim Elko, recording his 19th save. Estévez finished with a hit and a walk while striking out one on 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%).

  • Trevor Richards made the mess, allowing two hits, three earned runs, and two walks without retiring a batter in the ninth.
  • John Schreiber notched his eighth hold with a clean eighth while striking out one.
  • Angel Zerpa fired a clean seventh, striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | John Schreiber | Steven Cruz

Miami Marlins – Called upon with a runner on second and one out, Calvin Faucher allowed a stolen base by the pinch runner (José Caballero), followed by a go-ahead sacrifice fly, letting his only inherited runner score. He also gave up Junior Caminero’s single before inducing an inning-ending groundout by Jonathan Aranda. He finished with a hit during two-thirds scoreless.

  • Valente Bellozo gets tagged with his third loss and first blown save, giving up two hits, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out three across 3.1 innings.
  • Cade Gibson worked a clean fourth and recorded a strikeout for his first hold.
  • Ronny Henriquez fired a clean third while striking out one. 

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

*= closer-by-committee

Minnesota TwinsSealing a three-run win, Jhoan Durán recorded his tenth save, working around a one-out single by Nathan Lukes with a pop-out and a game-ending groundout. He threw 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%) while striking out one.

This marks his first save since May 27, and he has posted a 1.02 WHIP with 36 strikeouts against 11 walks (20.4 K-BB%) across 30.1 innings.

  • Griffin Jax retired the side in the eighth, securing his 16th hold.
  • Cole Sands tossed a clean seventh for his seventh hold.
  • Brock Stewart worked a clean sixth and struck out one for his seventh hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Louis Varland

San Diego PadresProtecting a 1-0 lead, Robert Suarez worked around Joey Ortiz’s two-out single with an eight-pitch at-bat against Brice Turang that ended in a lineout for his 21st save. He threw 17 pitches (12 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff (5.9 SwStr%) while recording one strikeout.

This extended his scoreless streak to eight games, during which he has converted six saves with a 0.538 WHIP and nine strikeouts (28.1 K-BB%) through 9.1 innings.

  • Jason Adam notched his 16th hold, working around two hits and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
  • Wandy Peralta stranded two runners and retired his only batter in the seventh for his third hold.
  • Sean Reynolds hit a batter and issued a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the seventh, getting credit for his second hold.
  • Yuki Matsui collected his second win, also stranding two batters while walking one and striking out two during two-thirds of the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

San Francisco Giants – Preserving a one-run lead, Camilo Doval posted his ninth save, working around Ozzie Albies’ one-out single with consecutive strikeouts. He threw 17 pitches (12 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff (5.9 SwStr%).

Since May 30, he has converted four of five save opportunities with a 1.642 WHIP and 10 strikeouts against five walks (16.6 K-BB%) through 6.2 innings.

  • Randy Rodríguez fired a clean eighth facing Atlanta’s 3-4-5 lineup pocket and recorded his eighth hold with two strikeouts. He extended his scoreless streak to 16 games, during which he has a minuscule 0.539 WHIP with 27 strikeouts versus three walks (42.1 K-BB%) across 16.2 innings.
  • Ryan Walker worked a clean seventh and struck out for his fifth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Camilo Doval | Randy Rodríguez | Tyler Rogers

Seattle Mariners – Locking down his 18th save, Andrés Muñoz navigated around Jorge Soler’s lead-off walk by retiring the next three batters, two via strikeout, preserving his team’s one-run win. He threw 18 pitches (55.6 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

This snapped a streak of two blown saves by the talented closer. He owns a 0.86 WHIP with 35 strikeouts against ten walks (24.1 K-BB%) through 26.2 innings.

  • Matt Brash secured his sixth hold, retiring the side and recording two strikeouts in the eighth.

Updated Hierarchy: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

Tampa Bay Rays – Taking over a tied game at the top of the eighth, Edwin Uceta retired the side and recorded two strikeouts. After his team pushed across the lead run at the bottom of the inning, he returned for the ninth, once again retiring the side, including a game-ending strikeout. He collected his fifth win, throwing 25 pitches (76 Strike%) and generating six whiffs (24 SwStr%) during two clean frames while striking out three.

  • Mason Montgomery stranded a runner while retiring his only batter in the seventh.
  • Kevin Kelly allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout during two-thirds of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Pete Fairbanks |Edwin Uceta | Mason Montgomery

Texas Rangers – After a hitter reached on an error at the bottom of the eighth, Bruce Bochy called upon Robert Garcia to face James Wood. He rose to the occasion, inducing an inning-ending groundout, then returned for the ninth, working around a one-out double with consecutive strikeouts while recording his fourth save. He threw 20 pitches (75 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (20 SwStr%) during his 1.1 scoreless innings.

  • Shawn Armstong recorded two outs and one strikeout before his removal for his fifth hold.
  • Hoby Milner notched his seventh hold, scattering two hits and striking out one during two scoreless frames.
  • Jacob Webb collected his third win, yielding a hit during 1.2 scoreless innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Garcia | Chris Martin | Shawn Armstrong

The Athletics – Finishing a win in a non-save capacity, Mason Miller retired the side against Baltimore’s 7-8-9 lineup pocket on five pitches (80 Strike%) without a whiff.

He’s been scoreless in his last five appearances, converting both save chances and posting a 0.526 WHIP with five strikeouts versus two walks over 5.2 innings.

  • T.J. McFarland notched his seventh hold, stranding a runner and retiring his only batter in the eighth.
  • Grant Holman allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout during two-thirds of the eighth for his third hold.
  • Sean Newcomb collected his first win, tossing three scoreless frames while giving up three hits and striking out three.

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

Quick Hits

  • Chicago White Sox: Taking over at the top of the fourth, Tyler Alexander suffered his sixth loss, allowing five hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two over three combined innings. Jordan Leasure let his only inherited runner score, giving up two hits and an earned run while striking out one during two-thirds of the seventh. 
  • Detroit Tigers: Completing a combined shutout in a non-save appearance, Will Vest retired the side and recorded a strikeout against the Cubs’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket. He threw 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He has been scoreless through four outings in June while posting a win and two saves. Tommy Kahnle fired a clean eighth, striking out two versus the top of the batting order. Brenan Hanifee worked around two hits for a scoreless seventh.
  • Houston Astros: Entering a tied game at the bottom of the seventh, Steven Okert allowed two hits, two runs (one earned), and a walk (intentional – José Ramírez) while striking out two, resulting in his second loss.
  • Milwaukee Brewers: Taking over at the top of the seventh, Rob Zastryzny suffered his first loss, allowing Manny Machado’s go-ahead solo home run and recording two strikeouts. Aaron Ashby logged two scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out one on 25 pitches (72 Strike%) with three whiffs (12 SwStr%).
  • New York Mets: Finishing a lopsided victory, Paul Blackburn recorded his first career save. He threw four innings, giving up seven hits, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out three on 71 pitches (47 strikes – 66.2 Strike%) with ten whiffs (14.1 SwStr%).
  • Philadelphia Phillies: During an eventual one-run loss, Orion Kerkering worked a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out three on 23 pitches (12 strikes – 52.2 Strike%) with four whiffs (17.4 SwStr%).
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Summoned at the top of the eighth with two outs, Braxton Ashcraft kept the game tied, issuing Brandon Marsh a walk and inducing an inning-ending groundout by Rafael Marchán. Returning with a one-run lead at the top of the ninth, he allowed Trea Turner’s double with one out, intentionally walked Kyle Schwarber, and produced a game-ending double play groundout against Alec Bohm for his first career win. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) without a whiff over 1.1 scoreless innings. 

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:

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Monkey Bytes | June 8

Saturday’s slate featured a bevy of high-leverage situations. Relievers recorded nine wins, though two followed blown saves at the top of the inning, and seven saves while suffering six losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BB
Jeff Hoffman151872.227.81:0
Kenley Jansen141471.47.10:0
Félix Bautista122462.5253:1
Aroldis Chapman101181.845.51:0
David Bednar8771.414.31:0
Dan Altavilla11553.300:1
Bennett Sousa11861.127.82:1

Today could be a busy one for the save streamers, though the recommendations below Bryan Abreu come with an inherent risk:

Vulture Save Options for June 9

  • Bryan Abreu (HOU): Hader has pitched the two previous days. 
  • Edwin Uceta (TB): Fairbanks has appeared in four of the last five days. 
  • Yariel Rodríguez (TOR): Hoffman has worked in back-to-back games. 
  • Braxton Ashcraft (PIT): Bednar and Santana have pitched in consecutive contests. 
  • Hunter Strickland (LAA): For the desperate crowd, Jansen/Zeferjahn/Detmers have all pitched in back-to-back wins. 

Vulture Save Stashes for June 10

  • Garrett Whitlock (BOS): If Chapman pitches tonight, it will be back-to-back outings. 
  • Phil Maton (STL): If Helsley pitches today, it’s consecutive appearances and three in four days. 

Three Takeaways

(1) Saveless in Atlanta: In its first 63 games, Atlanta has had 22 save opportunities, according to Baseball-Reference, and has converted only 10. The team’s last save was on May 18. On Saturday, with a one-run at the bottom of the ninth, Pierce Johnson allowed a one-out single by Heliot Ramos and, with two outs, served up a walk-off two-run home run by Matt Chapman, resulting in his third loss and a second blown save. This marks consecutive losses in back-to-back games for the veteran reliever. Sometimes, when it rains, it pours. However, relying on his curve, he cannot leave them in the heart of the strike zone with such thin margins:

Now, fantasy managers await how the next save chance is structured. For now:

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

(2) Helsley suffers consecutive blown saves: Taking over a 1-0 game at the top of the ninth, Ryan Helsley recorded a strikeout, then allowed consecutive singles by Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts, putting runners at the corners. During Freddie Freeman’s strikeout, a wild pitch scored Ohtani, tying the game, followed by an inning-ending strikeout of Will Smith. Helsley was tagged with his fourth blown save but picked up his fourth win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 19 pitches (15 strikes – 78.9 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (21.1 SwStr%). Here is his pitch illustrator from Saturday:

And his results:

He’s suffered consecutive blown saves in his first two games this month. Through his first 23 games this year, he has a 3.52 ERA, a 3.66 SIERA, and a 3.90 xERA, but the biggest concern remains his 1.52 WHIP. His contact rates have remained above last year’s levels, and he has produced fewer whiffs:

Hierarchy Remains: Ryan Helsley | Phil Maton | JoJo Romero

(3) Palencia makes his first June appearance: Despite a five-run lead, Daniel Palencia took over at the bottom of the eighth with two runners on and two outs. He induced an inning-ending flyout by Colt Keith and returned for the ninth. Palencia recorded a strikeout, allowed Spencer Torkelson’s single, and issued a walk before bearing down, recording a second strikeout, followed by a game-ending pick-off at first base. He finished with 1.1 scoreless innings, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out two on 22 pitches (12 strikes – 54.5 Strike%) with three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in 15 of his last 16 appearances, posting a 0.809 WHIP with 21 strikeouts versus six walks (23.1 K-BB%) through 17.1 innings. With Porter Hodge suffering a setback while on the injured list, Palencia gets more run as the closer, though the team may add a veteran before the trade deadline. For now:

Hierarchy Remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Drew Pomeranz

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Saturday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Baltimore Orioles – Handed a three-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, Félix Bautista took over against The Athletics’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket and navigated around a lead-off walk by retiring the next three batters via strikeouts, securing his 12th save. He threw 24 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (25 SwStr%).

He has a four-game scoreless streak and has converted his last five saves.

  • Andrew Kittredge recorded a clean eighth while striking out one for his third hold. Gregory Soto notched his 14th hold with a clean seventh, striking out one.
  • Seranthony Domínguez worked around a hit and a walk with two strikeouts during a scoreless sixth, securing his sixth hold.
  • Keegan Akin stranded an inherited runner and issued a walk while retiring one batter in the fifth. He was awarded his first win after his teammates rallied for two runs at the top of the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Félix Bautista | Seranthony Domínguez | Bryan Baker

Boston Red SoxCapping a wild contest, Aroldis Chapman nailed down his tenth save by retiring the side and recording a strikeout against the Yankees’ 8-9-1 hitters. He threw 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (45.5 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless over his last five appearances and posted a 0.92 WhIP with 34 strikeouts through 26 innings this season.

  • Justin Wilson allowed a hit, two earned runs, and two walks while striking out two in the eighth, getting credit for his sixth hold.
  • Greg Weissert fired a clean seventh, striking out the side for his tenth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Greg Weissert | Justin Wilson

Chicago White Sox – In his team’s 22nd win, Dan Altavilla became the sixth reliever with a save this season, tying for the team lead. He worked around a two-out walk with a game-ending pop-out for his first save since 2020 and the second of his career. He threw 15 pitches (8 strikes – 53.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

  • Steven Wilson worked around a hit and a walk with three strikeouts in a scoreless eighth, securing his seventh hold.
  • Cam Booser notched his sixth hold, giving up a hit during a scoreless seventh. 

Updated Hierarchy: *Dan Altavilla | *Steven Wilson | *Cam Booser

*= closer-by-committee

Cincinnati Reds(SSP Game) – After issuing a walk and stranding the “place” runner while striking out two during a scoreless top of the tenth, Tony Santillan collected his first win on his team’s first walk-off rally of the season. Emilio Pagán fired a clean ninth and recorded two strikeouts. He threw 11 pitches (90.9 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (36.4 SwStr%) against Arizona’s 2-3-4 lineup pocket. Graham Ashcraft logged two scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out four.

(Game 2) – Lyon Richardson finished a lopsided win with a clean top of the ninth while recording one strikeout. Brent Suter gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless eighth. 

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Cleveland GuardiansTaking over at the top of the tenth, Hunter Gaddis issued a one-out walk, induced a groundout by Jeremy Peña, then threw a wild pitch, putting the runners into scoring position ahead of a two-RBI single by Isaac Paredes, resulting in his first loss.

  • Emmanuel Clase fired a clean ninth and recorded a strikeout. He has been scoreless in 11 of his last 12 outings, converting six saves while posting a 0.684 WHIP with 15 strikeouts against two walks (29.6 K-BB%) over 11.2 innings.
  • Cade Smith kept the game tied, retiring the side at the top of the eighth. Jakob Junis worked a clean seventh and recorded one strikeout.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Houston Astros – Protecting a two-run lead, Bennett Sousa earned his first save, stranding the “place” runner while issuing a walk and recording two strikeouts in a scoreless bottom of the tenth.

Josh Hader collected his second win, working around a hit and a walk with three strikeouts in a scoreless ninth. He threw 24 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and generated seven whiffs (29.2 SwStr%).

He’s been scoreless in his last nine games, converting all seven save chances with 16 strikeouts against two walks (43.7 K-BB%) through nine innings.

  • Shawn Dubin allowed a game-tying home run by José Ramírez, scoring an inherited runner while tossing two innings, resulting in his first blown save.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bryan King

Los Angeles Angels – Lined up against Seattle’s 3-4-5 lineup pocket, Kenley Jansen allowed Cal Raleigh’s solo shot while recording his 14th save. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

He owns a 1.362 WHIP with 19 strikeouts across 21.1 innings.

  • Ryan Zeferjahn notched his 11th hold, yielding a hit during a scoreless eighth.
  • Reid Detmers worked a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and striking out two, extending his scoreless streak to nine games.
  • Brock Burke secured his sixth hold, stranding two runners and retiring both batters in the sixth.
  • Héctor Neris was credited with his seventh hold despite allowing two hits, an earned run, and a walk during one-third of the sixth.
  • Connor Brogdon collected his first win, logging 1.2 scoreless frames, walking one, and striking out two. 

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Ryan Zeferjahn | Reid Detmers

Milwaukee Brewers – Summoned with a two-run lead at the top of the ninth, Trevor Megill was not up to the challenge. He allowed a one-out single by Elias Díaz, induced a fielder’s choice groundout by Tyler Wade, then walked Xander Bogaerts with two outs, putting two runners on. After a double steal placed runners at second and third, Luis Arraez scored both, producing a two-RBI double tying the game, resulting in Megill’s second blown save. However, he also collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 23 pitches (13 strikes – 56.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

  • Jared Koenig tossed a clean eighth while recording a strikeout.
  • Abner Uribe gave up a hit and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless seventh. 

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

Pittsburgh Pirates – “The Renegade” raised the Jolly Roger, firing a clean bottom of the ninth and recording one strikeout while facing Philadelphia’s 1-2-3 lineup pocket. David Bednar notched his eighth save, throwing seven pitches (71.4 Strike%) and inducing one whiff (14.3 SwStr%).

He owns a seven-game scoreless streak since May 24, converting all four save chances with nine strikeouts (39.1 K-BB%) and a 0.286 WHIP across seven innings.

  • Dennis Santana retired the side and recorded a strikeout for his eighth save in the eighth inning.
  • Isaac Mattson collected his first win, working a clean seventh and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: David Bednar | Dennis Santana | Caleb Ferguson

Toronto Blue JaysHanded a two-run lead, Jeff Hoffman survived Kody Clemens’ solo home run and recorded a strikeout while securing his 15th save. He lost his three-game scoreless streak but has recorded a win and four saves in his last six appearances with a 1.11 WHIP and eight strikeouts versus three walks (24 K-BB%). However, he has already surpassed the number of home runs allowed this year compared to last in only his 29th game.

  • Braydon Fisher notched his first hold, retiring the side and striking out one during the eighth.
  • Chad Green collected his second win, navigating around two hits and a walk during a scoreless seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Yariel Rodríguez | Chad Green

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: During the resumed suspended game, Ryan Thompson fired a clean bottom of the ninth while recording two strikeouts. He returned for the tenth without the same success. He recorded a third strikeout, then allowed Christian Encarnacion-Strand’s walk-off RBI double, scoring the “place” runner, resulting in his second loss.
  • Kansas City Royals: During an eventual loss, Steven Cruz allowed a hit and recorded three strikeouts in a scoreless bottom of the seventh. He’s been scoreless in his last three appearances with multiple strikeouts in each (9 strikeouts of 16 batters faced).
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: Entering a scoreless contest with a five-game scoreless streak, Ben Casparius not only allowed a run, he did so in each inning. At the bottom of the eighth, he gave up consecutive singles by Masyn Winn and Brendan Donovan and a two-out Willson Contreras go-ahead RBI single. After his teammates tied the game, Casparius returned for the ninth, allowing Nolan Gorman’s lead-off double, getting an out on a sacrifice bunt, followed by Nolan Arenado’s walk-off single, resulting in his first loss.
  • Miami Marlins: Working two clean frames between the ninth and the tenth, Cade Gibson collected his first MLB win. He threw 17 pitches (10 strikes – 58.8 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%).
  • Minnesota Twins: Fatigue may be catching up with this leverage ladder. Jhoan Durán allowed two hits, including Vlad Guerrero Jr.’s RBI single, and recorded a strikeout during a non-save appearance. Griffin Jax gave up George Springer’s go-ahead two-run home run in the eighth, resulting in his fourth loss and fourth blown save.
  • Philadelphia Phillies: Appearing in an eventual loss, Taijuan Walker worked a scoreless eighth despite issuing two walks. He threw 27 pitches (16 strikes – 59.3 Strike%) and only induced one whiff.
  • San Diego Padres: Although his teammates tied the game at the top of the ninth, the momentum did not last long. David Morgan allowed a walk-off home run, resulting in his first loss on the second pitch he threw. Jason Adam allowed two hits, two runs (one earned), and a walk during the eighth.
  • San Francisco Giants: Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Tyler Rogers collected his third win. He worked a scoreless top of the ninth despite issuing a walk.
  • Tampa Bay Rays: Called upon at the top of the tenth, Garrett Cleavinger allowed a one-out go-ahead RBI single by Heriberto Hernandez, scoring the “place” runner, resulting in his second loss. He did record two strikeouts. Pete Fairbanks fired a clean ninth while striking out one, throwing 13 pitches (84.6 Strike%) without a whiff.
  • Texas Rangers: Preserving a combined shutout, Chris Martin retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the bottom of the ninth in a non-save capacity. He threw 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

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:

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BrooksBaseball.net