Monkey Bytes | June 6

Could a historic meltdown be the downfall of Raisel Iglesias as Atlanta’s closer? Time will tell. He’s insulated by a lack of talent in his team’s leverage ladder. However, Thursday’s loss was rough:

As a result, the team will promote Craig Kimbrel from Triple-A. He went 1-1 while recording three saves with a 1.091 WHIP and 17 strikeouts against eight walks (15.2 K-BB%) across 14.2 innings. Here is his Statcast chart from his last outing on June 4:

Here were his splits by velocity last year with his four-seam fastball:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Ypeaw/7/

Atlanta also placed Daysbel Hernández on the 15-day injured list and promoted Dylan Dodd. More on Raisel will be covered below, but Brian Snitker acknowledged he will have to discuss roles in the late innings moving forward.

As for Thursday’s 13-game slate, relievers recorded seven wins and five saves while suffering five losses. Our condensed save chart from yesterday:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BB
Carlos Estévez18966.722.21:0
Tanner Scott112166.7192:0
Camilo Doval82272.74.51:0
Shelby Miller61060200:1
Bryan Baker21471.421.42:0

There are slight tweaks in three leverage ladders, with Kirby Yates and Michael Kopech trending toward being activated for this weekend’s series in St. Louis.

In San Francisco, we have moved Randy Rodríguez into the next-in-line slot behind Camilo Doval. Texas activated Chris Martin, and he will be back in the ninth-inning mix.

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for June 6

  • Chris Martin (TEX): He warmed up during last night’s game and could be in line for the save chance today after yesterday’s outcome. 
  • John Schreiber (KC): Estévez pitched both ends of a doubleheader. 
  • Kirby Yates (LAD): Scott has appeared in three of the last four games. 
  • Shelby Miller (ARI): If available in your league, Justin Martinez threw 37 pitches on Wednesday and should get one more day of rest before his next appearance. 

Vulture Save Stash for June 7

  • Randy Rodríguez (SF): If Doval pitches today, it will be back-to-back appearances and three in the last four. 

Here are the leverage events of interest from Thursday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Arizona Diamondbacks – Capping a wild comeback at the top of the ninth, Shelby Miller tossed a scoreless bottom of the inning, working around a one-out walk with a game-ending double play grounder for his sixth save. He threw 10 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced two swings (20 SwStr%).

It’s his first save since May 19, and he has a modest five-game scoreless streak, during which he owns a 0.60 WHIP with five strikeouts versus one walk.

  • Kendall Graveman collected his first win despite giving up two hits and an earned run at the bottom of the eighth.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Atlanta Braves – Things escalated quickly at the top of the ninth, forcing Raisel Iglesias into an abbreviated warm-up before entering with a runner on first and one out. His outing began with Corbin Carroll producing an RBI double, followed by Ketel Marte’s single, putting runners at the corners. After retiring Geraldo Perdomo on a pop-out, Iglesias allowed an RBI single by Ildemaro Vargas and a two-RBI go-ahead double by Eugenio Suarez, resulting in his fifth loss and fourth blown save. His final line: four hits, three earned runs, and a walk during two-thirds of the ninth on 20 pitches (65 Strike%) with four whiffs (20 SwStr%). First, his pitch illustrator from this outing:

And his results:

Since May 8, he has allowed at least a run in eight of his last 11 appearances, giving up 20 hits, 12 runs (11 earned), and four walks while striking out eight. In this sample, he has a 2.40 WHIP and a 7.4 K-BB percentage.

The problem with having Iglesias on the “hot seat” lies in the lack of an obvious replacement on the current roster. Daysbel Hernández has the velocity but lacks command, illustrated by his 19.4 walk percentage. Dylan Lee shows flashes of upside but does not have experience in the ninth inning.  Craig Kimbrel is averaging 93.9 miles per hour with his four-seam fastball at Triple-A. 

Atlanta can ride it out with its closer or let him get back on track in lower-leveraged outings, but seeking a replacement on the roster does not seem alluring from a fantasy perspective. If it’s a matchup-based approach, Lee would be the preferred pivot from our vantage point, but nothing is guaranteed. 

Also, the team placed Daysbel Hernández on the injured list and promoted Craig Kimbrel. Desperation is a stinky cologne. 

Hierarchy Remains (for now): Raisel Iglesias | Dylan Lee | Pierce Johnson

Baltimore Orioles – Preserving a sweep and a one-run win over Seattle, Bryan Baker notched his second save with a scoreless bottom of the ninth. He allowed a two-out single and recorded a game-ending strikeout. In this outing, he threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless across his last four appearances and secured a save in two of his last three.

  • Andrew Kittredge retired the side and struck out two for his second hold in the eighth.
  • Keegan Akin fired a clean seventh, striking out one while recording his ninth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Félix Bautista | Seranthony Domínguez | Bryan Baker

Kansas City Royals – (Game 1) – Handed a one-run lead at the bottom of the tenth, Carlos Estévez had his nine-game scoreless streak snapped while suffering his first loss and third blown save during a walk-off in St. Louis. His outing began with a Lars Nootbar single, putting runners at the corners, and an RBI groundout by Masyn Winn, tying the game. After intentionally walking Brendan Donovan, he allowed Willson Contreras’ RBI single. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

  • Jonathan Bowlan worked a clean ninth, keeping the game tied.
  • Taylor Clarke let his only inherited runner score, giving up a two-run home run by Iván Herrera at the bottom of the eighth, resulting in his first blown save.
  • Daniel Lynch IV was awarded his fourth hold, though he allowed an earned run on a hit-batter during his combined inning.
  • John Schreiber gave up three hits and two runs (one earned) while getting his seventh hold during one-third of the seventh. 

(Game 2) – Redemption did not take long for Carlos Estévez. He posted his 100th career save and 18th this season, retiring the side and striking out one at the bottom of the ninth in the nightcap, throwing nine pitches (66.7 Strike%) with two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

  • Steven Cruz worked two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out four while notching his fourth hold.
  • Angel Zerpa logged three scoreless innings, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out four en route to his third win.

Updated Hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | John Schreiber | Steven Cruz

Los Angeles Dodgers – Capping his team’s comeback rally, Tanner Scott worked around Francisco Alvarez’s two-out single during a scoreless ninth with two strikeouts for his 11th save, closing out a one-run margin. He threw 21 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (19 SwStr%) against the Mets’ 6-7-8-9 hitters.

After a rough patch, he has collected a win and a save in consecutive scoreless appearances with multiple strikeouts in each.

  • Alex Vesia was awarded his second win. He stranded two runners at the top of the eighth while retiring his only batter.
  • José Ureña logged 2.1 innings, giving up three hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two.

Updated Hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Kirby Yates | Alex Vesia

San Francisco Giants – It was the 100th career save and eighth this season for Camilo Doval, though fitting since he worked into and then out of trouble for a scoreless ninth. He allowed a lead-off Manny Machado single and a one-out Gavin Sheets single, with both runners moving into scoring position on a fielder’s choice groundout. With two outs, he recorded a strikeout against Jake Cronenworth and threw 22 pitches (72.7 Strike%) with one whiff in this outing.

Since reclaiming the closer role, he has converted three of four save opportunities with a 2.128 WHIP while issuing five walks against five strikeouts over 4.2 innings.

  • Randy Rodríguez nailed down his seventh hold, yielding a hit and striking out two in a scoreless eighth. He owns a 0.573 WHIP with 25 strikeouts against three walks (40.7 K-BB%) during his 15-game scoreless streak.

Updated Hierarchy: Camilo Doval | Randy Rodríguez | Tyler Rogers

St. Louis Cardinals – (Game 1) – Despite letting the “place” runner score at the top of the tenth, JoJo Romero collected his second win. He allowed a lead-off RBI single by Vinnie Pasquantino, then retired the next three batters, one via strikeout ahead of his team’s walk-off rally.

  • Ryan Helsley could not preserve a one-run lead, giving up consecutive one-out singles by Michael Massey and Kyle Isbel, followed by the game-tying sacrifice fly by Jonathan India, resulting in his third blown save. This snapped his modest four-game scoreless, and nine straight saves converted streaks. It also marks his fourth multiple-hit game against in his last 11 appearances.

(Game 2) – Phil Maton tossed a scoreless top of the ninth in an eventual loss, walking and striking out one.

  • Matt Svanson issued a walk and worked 1.1 scoreless innings.
  • Kyle Leahy logged two innings, scattering three hits and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Ryan Helsley | Phil Maton | JoJo Romero

Texas Rangers – A strange mix of contact combined with questionable decisions by infielders resulted in Robert Garcia suffering his third loss and a second blown save. He took over with a two-run lead and battled his command throughout this appearance. He allowed a one-out single by Yandy Díaz, walked Jonathan Aranda on four pitches, and an RBI single by Junior Caminero. Following a flyout, Christopher Morel produced an RBI infield single, and Taylor Walls was credited with an infield single, scoring the game-winning runs. Garcia threw 26 pitches (17 strikes – 65.4 Strike%) and only induced one whiff.

  • Chris Martin was warming up but did not enter the game.
  • Jacob Latz retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the eighth for his first hold.
  • Shawn Armstrong retired his only batter via strikeout in the seventh, securing his fourth hold.
  • Hoby Milner logged 1.2 clean frames while striking out three for his sixth hold. 

Updated Hierarchy: Robert Garcia | Chris Martin | Shawn Armstrong

Quick Hits

  • Chicago White Sox: After stranding two inherited runners by retiring the Tigers’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket in order and striking out one at the top of the tenth, Steven Wilson collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off at the bottom of the inning. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) without a whiff.
  • Detroit Tigers: Entering at the bottom of the tenth, Beau Brieske intentionally walked Andrew Benintendi, recorded an out on a sacrifice bunt, putting both runners in scoring position, then allowed a walk-off RBI single by Tim Elko, resulting in his third loss. Tommy Kahnle worked a scoreless ninth despite issuing a walk.
  • Houston Astros: Protecting a four-run lead, Bryan Abreu fired a clean bottom of the eighth, striking out the side on 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and producing four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%) against the Pirates’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket. He has a five-game scoreless streak and has only allowed two earned runs in his last 22 appearances since April 13.
  • New York Mets: Taking over with a two-run lead at the bottom of the eighth, Reed Garrett issued Mookie Betts a leadoff walk, a leverage mortal sin, followed by Will Smith’s RBI double. After inducing a flyout against Teoscar Hernández, Garrett let the tying run score on a fielder’s choice, which featured a throwing error, then threw a wild pitch and recorded a strikeout With two outs, he intentionally walked Freddie Freeman but gave up Michael Conforto’s RBI single, plating the game-winning run. Garrett gets tagged with his second loss and a third blown save, allowing two hits, three runs (one earned), and two walks (one intentional) while striking out one during two-thirds of the eighth.
  • New York Yankees: Completing a combined shutout, Jonathan Loáisiga retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the top of the ninth during a non-save appearance.
  • Tampa Bay Rays: Working a scoreless top of the ninth, Cole Sulser collected his second win following his team’s three-run rally, ending in a walk-off at the bottom of the inning.
  • The Athletics: Finishing an 11-run win, Mason Miller made his first appearance since May 31, tossing a scoreless top of the ninth, allowing a one-out walk, and then inducing a game-ending double play groundout. He threw nine pitches (44.4 Strike%) without a whiff while facing the Twins’ 6-7-8 lineup pocket. He has a 1.31 WHIP with 37 strikeouts versus 11 walks (29.9 K-BB%) across 20.2 innings. He last recorded a save on May 25.

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Monkey Bytes | June 5

Although there was one postponed game on Wednesday, relievers recorded six wins and eighth saves while suffering five losses. Here are the saves in condensed form, including a career first:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BB
Kyle Finnegan171877.822.21:0
Félix Bautista111752.917.60:1
Pete Fairbanks111872.216.70:0
Tommy Kahnle8771.414.30:0
David Bednar72157.123.82:0
Justin Martinez53745.913.54:4
Tyler Kinley21560201:0
Randy Rodríguez1683.333.31:0

Daysbel Hernandez (ATL) left his outing early with what’s being reported as a pinky cramp, so there is no change in the hierarchy yet, though Craig Kimbrel can opt out of his minor league contract if another team wants to sign him.

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for June 5

  • Shelby Miller (ARI): If he’s available, he will be in line for the save after Martinez threw 37 pitches last night. 
  • Seranthony Domínguez (BAL): Bautista has appeared in consecutive contests. 
  • Tommy Kahnle (DET): Once again, if he’s a free agent, he could be worth the stream after Vest logged two innings during yesterday’s contest. 
  • Eric Orze (TB): Fairbanks, Uceta, and Montgomery have all pitched in back-to-back games. 

Doubleheader Options

  • Kansas City: Preferred option – Taylor Clarke; YOLO – Steven Cruz
  • St. Louis: Preferred option – Phil Maton; YOLO – Matt Svanson

Vulture Save Stashes for June 6

  • Cade Smith (CLE): If Clase pitches today, it’s back-to-back contests. 
  • Yariel Rodríguez (TOR): If Hoffman makes an appearance today, it will be consecutive days. 
  • Jose A. Ferrer (WSH): If Finnegan works in today’s game, it’s two straight for the veteran. 

During Wednesday’s 14-game slate, these situations stood out.

Three Takeaways

(1) Lovullo and leverage: It’s tough justifying how Justin Martinez was deployed last night, especially given he missed time with shoulder fatigue earlier this season. He took over at the bottom of the eighth with two runners on and one out. Martinez recorded a strikeout against Michael Harris II, intentionally walked Ronald Acuña Jr. to load the bases, and was at a 3-1 count versus Austin Riley before striking him out, ending the threat. He returned for the ninth and issued Matt Olson a lead-off walk, moved him to second on a wild pitch, registered a strikeout, walked Ozzie Albies, induced a fielder’s choice groundout, hit a batter, loading the bases again, then walked in a run. Bearing down with two outs, ended the game with another Harris II strikeout, notching his fifth hold. He threw a season-high 37 pitches (17 strikes – 45.9 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (13.5 SwStr%).

As one can see, Martinez did not have command of his splitter, and after an elevated pitch count, he will be unavailable for at least two days. It seems like fantasy managers understand fatigue in a usage pattern like this better than Torey Lovullo. With this in mind, here is Martinez’s velocity chart from this outing:

(2) Randy remains electric: Taking over with two runners on and one out, Randy Rodríguez recorded his first career major league save by striking out Jackson Merrill and inducing a game-ending pop-out by Gavin Sheets. He threw six pitches (83.3 Strike%) and generated two whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to 14 games, during which he has two wins, this save, and four holds with a 0.544 WHIP while striking out 23 versus three walks (40 K-BB%). He’s not yet in the hierarchy, but continued outings and usage patterns like this mean he could emerge as the next in line very soon. Rodríguez and a few other relievers of interest were highlighted in our May in Review post.

(3) Bednar’s seventh: Securing his seventh save, David Bednar worked around a one-out Yainer Diaz single by retiring the next two batters, finishing a combined shutout. He threw 21 pitches (12 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (23.8 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts.

He owns a modest five-game scoreless streak, during which he has converted three saves with a 0.40 WHIP and five strikeouts (29.4 K-BB%) over five innings. Braxton Ashcraft logged two scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out three for his first hold. He could earn a larger leverage soon with continued appearances like this one. Monitor his results closely.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Wednesday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Baltimore Orioles – Although dealing with traffic at the bottom of the ninth, Félix Bautista navigated around a one-out single by Randy Arozarena, followed by Mitch Garver’s walk by inducing Leody Tavares’ pop-out and a game-ending flyout while facing Rowdy Tellez. Bautista threw 17 pitches (9 strikes – 52.9 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%).

The good news is that he has been scoreless in five of his past six appearances with a 1.167 WHIP and eight strikeouts versus four walks (16 K-BB%). However, he has only thrown 62 of his 100 pitches for strikes in these games.

  • Gregory Soto notched his 13th hold, issuing a walk and recording three strikeouts in a scoreless bottom of the eighth.
  • Seranthony Domínguez fired a clean seventh while striking out two for his fifth hold.
  • Yennier Cano collected his first win, stranded a runner, and retired both hitters in the sixth, one via strikeout.

Hierarchy Remains: Félix Bautista | Seranthony Domínguez | Bryan Baker

Cleveland Guardians – Completing a combined shutout, Emmanuel Clase navigated around Ben Rice’s single and Cody Bellinger’s ground-rule double by recording all three outs via strikeout. He threw 20 pitches (75 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (20 SwStr%).

He has a four-game scoreless streak and has been scoreless in 10 of his last 11 appearances with a 0.748 WHIP with 14 strikeouts versus two walks (29.2 K-BB%) through 10.2 innings.

  • Hunter Gaddis retired the side in the eighth.
  • Tim Herrin stranded a runner and logged 1.1 clean frames for his ninth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Colorado Rockies – Securing his second save and first since April 20, Tyler Kinley retired the side and recorded one strikeout at the bottom of the ninth, preserving a sweep in Miami. He faced the 2-3-4 lineup pocket, throwing 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and producing three whiffs (20 SwStr%).

  • Victor Vodnik notched his first hold, firing a clean eighth and striking out one.
  • Jake Bird let one of two inherited runners score, giving up an RBI fielder’s choice groundout by Jesús Sánchez and getting the last out on a throw to home following a double. He gets credit for his seventh hold during two-thirds of the seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: Zach Agnos | Seth Halvorsen | Tyler Kinley

Detroit Tigers – Preserving the one-run margin, Tommy Kahnle posted his eighth save, retiring the side against the White Sox 6-7-8 lineup pocket on seven pitches (71.4 Strike%) and one whiff (14.3 SwStr%).

It’s his first save since May 28, and he has been scoreless in his last five appearances.

Will Vest worked around a hitter reaching on an error with a double play and retired his last five batters, three via strikeout, throwing 18 pitches (77.8 Strike%) with four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

He has recorded two wins and five saves over his last eight games with a 0.753 WHIP and eight strikeouts versus two walks (16.6 K-BB%) across 9.1 innings.

  • Tyler Holton let one of three inherited runners score and, despite not allowing a hit while striking out one during 1.2 scoreless frames, gets tagged with his third blown save.

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

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

Minnesota Twins – Finishing a five-run win, Jhoan Durán fired a clean bottom of the ninth while recording two strikeouts. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (25 SwStr%).

He owns a modest four-game scoreless streak but has not converted a save since May 27.

  • Brock Stewart tossed a clean eighth, striking out two.
  • Griffin Jax notched his 15th hold, striking out the side in the seventh on 13 pitches (69.2 Strike%) with six whiffs (46.2 SwStr%).
  • Louis Varland navigated around a hit and a walk with three strikeouts during a scoreless sixth, securing his tenth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Louis Varland

Tampa Bay Rays – Despite losing his six-game scoreless streak, Pete Fairbanks held on for his 11th save during an eventual one-run win. After recording two quick outs, Josh Smith reached on a throwing error, advanced to second on defensive indifference, and scored on Wyatt Langford’s RBI single before a game-ending groundout by Corey Seager. Fairbanks threw 18 pitches (13 strikes – 72.2 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

He has converted his last three save opportunities.

  • Edwin Uceta allowed a walk and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless eighth for his tenth hold.
  • Mason Montgomery notched his eighth hold, giving up a hit and striking out three in the seventh.
  • Manuel Rodríguez worked a scoreless sixth, yielding a hit and striking out one for his ninth hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks |Edwin Uceta | Mason Montgomery

Washington Nationals – Snapping a three-game streak of allowing at least a run, Kyle Finnegan navigated around two hits by inducing Kyle Tucker’s game-ending groundout, preserving a combined shutout during his 17th save. He threw 18 pitches (77.8 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

Since May 1, he has converted eight of nine save chances with a 1.10 WHIP and six strikeouts versus one walk (12.5 K-BB%) across ten innings.

  • Brad Lord recorded his second hold, issuing a walk while tossing a scoreless top of the eighth.

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

Quick Hits

  • Atlanta Braves: Appearing in a loss, Raisel Iglesias allowed two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one at the top of the ninth. With one out, Tim Tawa doubled and Ketel Marte produced a two-out RBI single, scoring him. Iglesias threw 20 pitches (50 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Since May 3, he has allowed at least a run in seven of 12 appearances with a 1.626 WHIP across 12.1 innings.
  • Boston Red Sox: Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Cooper Criswell collected his first win after tossing 1.2 scoreless innings while walking one and striking out two.
  • Chicago White Sox: In order of appearance, Mike Vasil took over at the top of the second, logging 3.2 scoreless frames while scattering two hits and striking out three. Steven Wilson stranded two runners at the top of the fifth and tossed 1.1 scoreless, walking and striking out one. Brandon Eisert suffered his first loss, allowing a hit and an earned run while striking out one in the seventh. Jordan Leasure worked around a hit and a walk for a scoreless eighth.
  • Los Angeles Angels: Entering a tied game at the bottom of the eighth, Brock Burke let his only inherited runner score after issuing a walk and allowing a game-tying RBI single by Rafael Devers before recording two outs, resulting in his second blown save. Returning for the ninth, he gave up Abraham Toro’s one-out single and a walk-off home run by Cedanne Rafaela, handing him his first loss.
  • Miami Marlins: During a one-run loss, Janson Junk logged four innings, allowing a hit and an earned run while striking out six on 50 pitches (74 Strike%) with nine whiffs (18 SwStr%). 
  • Milwaukee Brewers: As the “bulk follower,” Quinn Priester earned his third win, tossing five innings, giving up two hits, an earned run, and three walks while striking out four. Nick Mears finished the eight-run win with a scoreless ninth despite yielding a hit.
  • New York Yankees: In his first appearance back from the injured list, Fernando Cruz allowed two hits, including Kyle Manzardo’s solo home run, and recorded three strikeouts on 18 pitches (14 strikes – 77.8 Strike%) with five whiffs (27.8 SwStr%).
  • Philadelphia Phillies: Entering a tied game at the bottom of the ninth, Jordan Romano retired Bo Bichette on a pop-out, then allowed Vlad Guerrero Jr.’s one-out single and a stolen base before striking out Addison Barger. But with two outs, Alejandro Kirk hit a walk-off double, resulting in Romano’s second loss. He threw 20 pitches (70 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (10 SwStr%). He has allowed a run in his last two games.
  • San Diego Padres: With two runners on and no outs at the bottom of the seventh, Jason Adam allowed a one-out single loading the bases, then gave up Heliot Ramos’ game-tying RBI double, followed by Jung Hoo Lee’s go-ahead sacrifice fly, resulting in his second loss and first blown save. He finished with two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one. Wandy Peralta tossed a clean bottom of the eighth.
  • Seattle Mariners: Forced into action at the top of the seventh with a runner on first and two outs, Carlos Vargas issued Coby Mayo a walk and gave up Heston Kjerstad’s go-ahead two-RBI triple before inducing an inning-ending groundout, resulting in his fourth loss and a third blown save.
  • Toronto Blue Jays: Summoned with two outs at the top of the ninth, Jeff Hoffman allowed a single by Alec Bohm before retiring Nick Castellanos on a groundout. He collected his fifth win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning after only throwing seven pitches. He has been scoreless in four of his last five appearances, recording this win and three saves.

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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Month in Review | May 2025

Changing the format slightly, this post focuses on reliever performance during May by examining some underlying data and comparing it to the results in April. This yields gainers and decliners of interest with eyes on the future.

First, the leaderboards.

Saves Leaders from May

RelieverSaves
Ryan Helsley9
Jhoan Durán7
Emmanuel Clase7
Carlos Estévez7
Trevor Megill7
Kyle Finnegan7
Jeff Hoffman7
Josh Hader6
Luke Weaver6
Jordan Romano6
Andrés Muñoz6
Robert Suarez6
Emilio Pagán6

SOLDS Leaders in May

NameSavesHoldsSOLDS
Daniel Palencia549
Ryan Helsley909
Tommy Kahnle268
Jordan Romano628
Camilo Doval167
Jhoan Duran707
Emmanuel Clase707
Carlos Estévez707
Trevor Megill707
Griffin Jax077
Abner Uribe167
Kyle Finnegan707
Ryan Walker527
Devin Williams167
Jordan Leasure167
Ryan Zeferjahn077
Jeff Hoffman707

Strikeout Leaders in May

NameStrikeouts
Ronny Henriquez22
Griffin Jax21
Jhoan Duran20
Abner Uribe20
Jeremiah Estrada20
Randy Rodríguez20
Cade Smith20
Ben Casparius19
Yariel Rodríguez18
Jordan Romano17
Gabe Speier17
Bradley Lord17
Garrett Whitlock17
Graham Ashcraft17

Now for the underlying data.

K-BB%

The following relievers had the largest increase in K-BB percentage in May versus April.

Gainers

RisersMar/AprMayK-BB% Diff
Devin Williams4.0%27.9%23.9%
Caleb Ferguson-1.7%22.0%23.7%
Jordan Romano7.8%28.6%20.8%
Ronny Henriquez11.9%31.6%19.7%
Yariel Rodríguez8.0%27.3%19.3%
Brant Hurter10.9%28.9%18.0%
Anthony Bender0.0%17.8%17.8%
Daniel Palencia9.1%26.7%17.6%
Dennis Santana8.7%26.1%17.4%
Ryan Helsley4.5%20.8%16.3%
Carlos Estévez6.3%22.5%16.2%

There are some intriguing names above, and those who targeted Daniel Palencia will be encouraged to see his improved rate in this category; it will be a key to continued success. Two relievers of interest appear on this list: Ronny Henriquez (MIA) and Yariel Rodríguez (TOR). Their roles may expand in their respective bullpens as the season progresses if these gains are sustained.

The following relievers had the most significant declines in this category.

Decliners

DeclinersMar/AprMayK-BB% Diff
Mason Miller50.0%15.9%-34.1%
Yuki Matsui30.0%0.0%-30.0%
Tim Herrin21.7%-4.4%-26.1%
Jeff Hoffman38.9%16.0%-22.9%
Jacob Webb15.3%-3.9%-19.2%
Jason Adam22.1%4.3%-17.8%
Manuel Rodriguez25.5%7.7%-17.8%
Shelby Miller23.4%6.3%-17.1%
Hunter Gaddis34.8%19.1%-15.7%
Mason Montgomery23.3%7.7%-15.6%
Shawn Armstrong17.9%2.4%-15.5%
Ryan Walker20.4%5.0%-15.4%

May was a rough month for Mason Miller, though he flashed signs of a rebound near its conclusion. Hoffman and Walker also suffered in their K-BB percentages and must be monitored closely in June.

SwStr%

These relievers experienced the most significant gains in swinging strike percentage in May compared to their April results.

Gainers

RelieverMar/AprMaySwStr% Diff
Ronny Henriquez12.9%22.8%9.9%
Randy Rodríguez12.5%20.8%8.3%
Dylan Lee12.4%19.3%6.9%
Matt Strahm8.7%15.3%6.6%
Mason Fluharty9.4%15.9%6.5%
Carlos Hernández7.8%14.1%6.3%
Devin Williams10.1%16.2%6.1%
Jimmy Herget6.6%12.6%6.0%
Emmanuel Clase15.7%21.5%5.8%
Jeremiah Estrada15.3%21.1%5.8%
Lucas Erceg8.9%14.0%5.1%
Josh Hader18.0%23.0%5.0%
Carlos Estévez5.8%10.6%4.8%
Seranthony Domínguez10.9%15.4%4.5%

Once again, Henriquez appears on the gainers list, though his role remains in flux. Even though the Giants have already made one switch at closer, fantasy managers should monitor how Randy Rodríguez gets used during leverage situations in June.

These relievers incurred the most significant drops in swinging strike rate in May versus their results in April.

Decliners

RelieverMar/AprMaySwStr% Diff
Mason Montgomery21.1%11.8%-9.3%
Brendon Little24.9%15.7%-9.2%
Aroldis Chapman21.6%14.4%-7.2%
Will Vest15.4%8.3%-7.1%
Scott Barlow14.5%7.9%-6.6%
Hunter Gaddis20.5%14.1%-6.4%
Jackson Rutledge17.1%10.9%-6.2%
Justin Sterner14.8%8.9%-5.9%
Mason Miller23.7%18.1%-5.6%
Greg Weissert12.1%6.5%-5.6%
Ian Hamilton16.5%11.1%-5.4%
Brock Burke13.2%8.0%-5.2%
Yuki Matsui16.4%11.2%-5.2%
Andrés Muñoz18.4%13.4%-5.0%
Shelby Miller16.6%11.7%-4.9%
Orion Kerkering11.5%6.7%-4.8%
Chase Shugart11.4%6.6%-4.8%
Pete Fairbanks13.5%8.8%-4.7%
Nick Mears13.6%9.1%-4.5%
Jeff Hoffman18.5%14.1%-4.4%
Edwin Uceta14.6%10.2%-4.4%

Do not focus solely on the last column; note the total from April versus May when assessing a reliever of interest on this list. Three relievers from Tampa Bay appear, and it’s not known if moving from the comfortable confines of their indoor stadium to the Single-A park they play in factors heavily in these outcomes, but it’s worth noting.

Last but not least, identifying relievers who produced strong underlying data across four key categories during high-leverage events. These four all recorded a K-BB percentage greater than 20, a swinging strike percent over 15, a strike percentage of at least 65 percent, and a contact rate allowed less than 67 percent:

RelieverK-BB%SwStr%Strike%Contact%
Jeremiah Estrada38.6%21.1%67.2%63.1%
Randy Rodríguez37.8%20.8%69.6%61.5%
Gabe Speier36.6%18.4%72.1%65.8%
Griffin Jax34.0%16.0%67.1%66.3%
Josh Hader33.3%23.0%65.8%53.9%
Ronny Henriquez31.6%22.8%65.3%56.1%
Brock Stewart31.6%17.9%66%63.6%
Bennett Sousa24.5%17.7%71.4%66.7%

These relievers just missed, qualifying in three of the four categories:

RelieverK-BB%SwStr%Strike%Contact%
Bryan Baker31.9%16.2%65.9%67.4%
Devin Williams27.9%16.2%62.6%65.9%
Jhoan Durán24.2%15.2%66.7%70.6%
Tanner Scott23.9%15.8%69.4%71.6%

This concludes our review of May. There are some intriguing names worth tracking in June.

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Monkey Bytes | June 4

Tuesday’s full slate resulted in six reliever wins and seven saves. Relief pitchers also were tagged with seven losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BB
Carlos Estévez171855.611.12:1
Josh Hader161580402:0
Emilio Pagán161866.722.21:0
Devin Williams63073.316.71:0
Seth Halvorsen3156013.30:0
Jeremiah Estrada26400:0
Reid Detmers11181.827.32:0

Our vulture save streamers hit on two recommendations in yesterday’s slate, so lets keep the momentum going:

Vulture Save Options for June 4

  • Ryan Walker (SF): Doval threw 28 pitches last night and has logged 49 over the previous three days. 
  • Victor Vodnik (COL): With Zach Agnos on the bereavement list and Halvorsen having appeared in consecutive contests, it’s Vodnik in line for the save chance if the Rockies can execute a sweep. 
  • Ryan Zeferjahn (LAA): Jansen and Detmers have worked in back-to-back games. 
  • Lou Trivino (LAD): Scott has pitched in two straight, and Vesia will match up against Soto, playing a hunch here. 

Vulture Save Stashes for June 5

  • Seranthony Domínguez (BAL): If Bautista pitches today, it’s back-to-back outings. 
  • Bryan King (HOU): If Hader and Abreu appear today, it’s consecutive contests. 

With Father’s Day fast approaching, one of my Dad’s favorite movies was “The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly,” which will be today’s theme in our three takeaways.

Three Takeaways

(1) “The Good”: Redemption happened fast for Tanner Scott. Not only did he strand the “place” runner while facing the Mets’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket at the top of the tenth, including strikeouts against Juan Soto and Pete Alonso, but he also collected his first win on the walk-off at the bottom of the inning. Scott threw 10 pitches (90 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (50 SwStr%) in a dominant performance, reminding fantasy managers what he’s capable of. His fastball location was on point in this outing:

(2) “The Bad”: Although the final outcome worked, this appearance was not the ninth inning coronation many hoped for. It was another white knuckle ride in the ninth inning with Devin Williams, but he closed out a one-run margin for his sixth save, the first since May 27. He did allow Carlos Santana’s one-out double and Daniel Schneeman’s two-out pinch-hit RBI single before inducing a game-ending flyout. He threw 30 pitches (22 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). First, his pitch illustrator:

And his results:

He had been scoreless in 11 of his 12 previous appearances, but he’s struggled with traffic while appearing in the ninth inning. After this game, he has a 2.371 WHIP and a 12.10 ERA in the ninth inning across 11 games, spanning 9.2 innings.

(3) “The Ugly”: All good things must come to an end, and regression came calling for Camilo Doval. He could not preserve the combined shutout and suffered his third blown save at the top of the ninth. It started with Brandon Lockridge’s one-out single, and a two-out walk to Fernando Tatis Jr. put two runners on. A wild pitch moved Lockridge to third, Tatis Jr. stole second, putting two in scoring position and another walk (Luis Arraez), loaded the bases for Manny Machado’s game-tying two-RBI single, snapping Doval’s 21-game scoreless streak. He threw 28 pitches (13 strikes – 46.4 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (17.9 SwStr%) while giving up two hits, two earned runs, and two walks with two strikeouts. His pitch illustrator tells the story:

Since being named the closer, he has converted two of three saves with a 1.89 WHIP and five walks against four strikeouts (-6.3 K-BB%). In this limited sample, he has thrown 33 of his 67 pitches for strikes (49.3 Strike%) and only induced six whiffs (9 SwStr%). This may be a blip, especially following two four-out saves, but Randy Rodríguez remains the best reliever in this leverage ladder despite not being deployed in save situations, he’s worth a stash for those in deeper formats.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Tuesday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Cincinnati Reds – Closing out a two-run lead, Emilio Pagán worked around Elly De La Cruz’s throwing error with two outs with a game-ending flyout, featuring a terrific catch at the wall by TJ Friedl. He threw 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%) while striking out one in a scoreless ninth.

He’s converted his last seven save opportunities despite allowing at least a run in four of his last ten games.

  • Tony Santillan retired his only two batters at the top of the eighth for his 13th hold.
  • Graham Ashcraft collected his fourth win, logging 1.1 clean frames and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Colorado Rockies – Securing his third save and preserving a one-run win, Seth Halvorsen retired the side in Miami, facing the 7-8-9 lineup pocket. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%).

This marked his first save since May 17, and he has been scoreless in five of his last six appearances.

  • Victor Vodnik collected his first win, retiring all four batters ahead of his team’s go-ahead rally at the bottom of the eighth.
  • Jimmy Herget scattered four hits across 1.2 scoreless frames and recorded two strikeouts.

Hierarchy Remains: Zach Agnos | Seth Halvorsen | Jake Bird

Houston Astros – Shutting the door on his 16th save and preserving a combined shutout, Josh Hader retired the side and recorded two strikeouts against the Pirates’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket. He threw 15 pitches (80 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (40 SwStr%).

He owns a seven-game scoreless streak, during which he has a 0.286 WHIP with 12 strikeouts against one walk (45.8 K-BB%) across seven innings.

  • Bryan Abreu notched his 16th hold, allowing a hit during a scoreless eighth.
  • Shawn Dubin worked a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit while recording his third hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bryan King

Kansas City Royals – Capping his team’s comeback, Carlos Estévez secured his 17th save, working around a one-out single and a two-out walk with a game-ending strikeout of Nolan Gorman. Estévez threw 18 pitches (55.6 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%) while striking out two. He extended his scoreless streak to nine games, during which he has a win, six saves, and a 0.86 WHIP with 10 strikeouts versus two walks (22.9 K-BB%) through 9.1 innings.

  • Taylor Clarke retired the side at the bottom of the eighth for his first hold.
  • John Schreiber worked 1.1 scoreless frames, allowing two hits and striking out one.
  • Angel Zerpa gave up a hit and a walk during two-thirds scoreless, getting credit for his third hold.
  • Steven Cruz collected his second win, logging 1.2 clean frames and striking out two.

Updated Hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | John Schreiber | Taylor Clarke

Los Angeles Angels – Taking over with a one-run lead at the bottom of the tenth, Reid Detmers recorded his first career save, stranding the “place” runner while retiring the Red Sox 6-7-8 lineup pocket in order, two via strikeout. He threw 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to seven games, during which he has posted four holds and this save, with a 1.142 WHIP and 10 strikeouts against three walks (25.9 K-BB%) through seven innings.

Kenley Jansen collected his first win, navigating around two walks (one intentional – Rafael Devers) and striking out one, keeping the game tied at the bottom of the ninth. He has been scoreless in seven of his last eight, converting all five save chances.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Ryan Zeferjahn | Reid Detmers

New York Mets – One day removed from his first save, José Buttó suffered his first loss at the bottom of the tenth. He issued Shohei Ohtani an intentional walk, retired Mookie Betts on a lineout, and gave up Freddie Freeman’s walk-off RBI double, scoring the “place” runner.

  • Huascar Brazobán was tagged with his third blown save, allowing Max Muncy’s game-tying solo home run in the ninth while recording three strikeouts.
  • Reed Garrett secured his 14th hold, working around a hit and a walk while striking out one, entering against the top of the Dodgers’ lineup.
  • Brandon Waddell worked a scoreless seventh despite issuing a walk for his first hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | Reed Garrett | Huascar Brazobán

San Diego Padres – Handed a one-run lead at the bottom of the tenth, Jeremiah Estrada nailed down his second save while stranding the “place” runner, retiring the Giants’ 9-1-2 hitters on a sacrifice bunt and two groundouts. He threw six pitches (66.7 Strike%) without a whiff, extending his scoreless streak to five games, during which he has recorded a win, two saves, and a hold with seven strikeouts across 4.2 innings.

  • Yuki Matsui collected his first win, retiring the side at the bottom of the ninth ahead of his team’s rally at the top of the tenth.
  • Sean Reynolds logged three scoreless frames, walking one and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: After his team tacked on three runs at the top of the ninth, Ryan Thompson retired the side, completing a five-run win in Atlanta. Shelby Miller navigated around two hits and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless eighth for his eighth hold.
  • Baltimore Orioles: Wrapping up a win in a non-save appearance, Félix Bautista was warming during a two-run lead, then fired a clean bottom of the ninth, preserving a four-run win in Seattle after his teammates tacked on two runs at the top of the frame. He threw an efficient 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and induced one whiff while recording one strikeout. He has a 1.32 WHIP with 25 strikeouts against 14 walks (13.1 K-BB%) through 19.2 innings.
  • Boston Red Sox: Entering at the top of the tenth, Zack Kelly suffered his second loss, with the lead-off hitter reaching on an error during a sacrifice bunt, followed by walking Mike Trout, before inducing a double play groundout, scoring the “place” runner. Aroldis Chapman fired a clean ninth and recorded a strikeout on eight pitches (62.5 Strike%) with one whiff.
  • Chicago Cubs: Finishing a five-run win, Ryan Pressly allowed a hit during a scoreless bottom of the ninth while facing the Nationals.
  • Chicago White Sox: In order of appearance, Cam Booser issued a walk and recorded two strikeouts during two-thirds scoreless in the sixth, securing his fifth hold. Jordan Leasure allowed two hits, an earned run, and a walk during the seventh. Brandon Eisert gave up two hits and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless eighth. Dan Altavilla fired a clean ninth, striking out one on 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) without a whiff, closing out a seven-run win over Detroit.
  • Detroit Tigers: Called upon at the bottom of the second, Brant Hurter suffered his first loss, giving up an unearned run on a hit and a walk while striking out four against the White Sox.
  • Miami Marlins: A leverage ladder in constant flux based on usage patterns, Calvin Faucher gave up a hit and worked a scoreless top of the seventh, keeping the game tied. Anthony Bender suffered his fourth loss, allowing Hunter Goodman’s go-ahead solo home run at the top of the eighth and recording a strikeout in the eighth.
  • Minnesota Twins: Finishing a seven-run win, Jorge Alcala fired two clean frames and recorded four strikeouts. Justin Topa gave up a hit while striking out one in a scoreless seventh. Cole Sands allowed two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one in the sixth, getting credit for his sixth hold.
  • St. Louis Cardinals: Summoned with two runners on and one out at the top of the fifth, Steven Matz let both score, giving up three hits and two earned runs while striking two over his 1.1 innings, resulting in his second loss.
  • Tampa Bay Rays: Because his teammates scored a run at the bottom of the eighth, Pete Fairbanks preserved a four-run win in a non-save capacity. He retired the Rangers’ 3-4-5 hitters on nine pitches (66.7 Strike%) with one whiff (11.1 SwStr%). He owns a modest six-game scoreless streak since May 17 with a 0.833 WHIP and six strikeouts over six 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:

Fangraphs.com

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BaseballSavant.com

BrooksBaseball.net

Monkey Bytes | June 3

Monday’s seven-game slate had the headlines stolen by Jeff Passan announcing the Yankees will place Luke Weaver on the 15-day injured list with a strained hamstring. However, those with Tanner Scott on their remain on edge following his second loss during his last seven appearances. In the seven contests, relievers recorded three wins, though one was the result of a blown save, and four saves while incurring two losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BB
Kenley Jansen121060101:0
Trevor Megill121369.215.41:0
Zach Agnos41163.69.10:0
José Buttó1771.414.30:0

The Dodgers hierarchy remains a work in progress, with the pending return of Kirby Yates and Alexis Díaz working with the training staff in Arizona on his mechanics and fastball command.

Yesterday’s rankings were also adjusted following the Weaver news: LINK

For the save streamers, it is a potentially busy day today, but Wednesday will change depending on usage patterns:

Vulture Save Options for June 3

  • Reed Garrett (NYM): Díaz has pitched the two previous games. 
  • Alex Vesia (LAD): Hedging the team will give Scott tonight off. 
  • Grant Anderson (MIL): Megill, Uribe, and Koenig have all pitched in back-to-back contests. 
  • Seth Halvorsen (COL): Agnos has appeared in consecutive games. 

Vulture Save Stash for June 4

  • Brock Burke (LAA): If Jansen pitches tonight, it’s back-to-back games. 
  • Kirby Yates (LAD): If he is activated, he could be in play for the save chance tomorrow. 

Here are the leverage events of interest from Monday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Colorado Rockies – Working around Jesús Sánchez’s lead-off single, Zach Agnos retired Augustín Ramírez via flyout, then induced a game-ending double play groundout, preserving a two-run with and securing his fourth save. He threw 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) and produced one whiff (9.1 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in six of his last seven outings and converted both save chances with a 0.429 WHIP through seven innings.

  • Seth Halvorsen notched his third hold, firing a clean bottom of the eighth and recording one strikeout.
  • Tyler Kinley worked a clean seventh and struck out one for his second hold.
  • Jake Bird allowed a hit during a scoreless sixth, recording his sixth hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Zach Agnos | Seth Halvorsen | Jake Bird

Los Angeles Angels – Revenge is a dish best served with a clean outing against a former team. Kenley Jansen retired the side and recorded a strikeout in his first game back in Boston. He threw 10 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced one whiff while facing the 3-4-5 lineup pocket, preserving a one-run margin.

Chipping away at his ratios, he has a 1.42 WHIP with 17 strikeouts over 18.1 innings.

  • Héctor Neris gets credit for his sixth hold despite allowing Cedanne Rafaela’s solo home run at the bottom of the eighth.
  • Ryan Zeferjahn was awarded his third win. He worked a clean seventh while striking out two.
  • Reid Detmers navigated around two hits and a walk for a scoreless sixth and his fourth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Ryan Zeferjahn | Reid Detmers

Los Angeles Dodgers – Taking over at the top of the tenth, Tanner Scott allowed a lead-off RBI double by Francisco Alvarez, scoring the “place” runner, followed by Francisco Lindor’s RBI single, and worked around a two-walk of Pete Alonso while suffering his second loss. He gave up two hits, two runs (one earned), and a walk while striking out one on 19 pitches (63.2 Strike%) without a whiff.

He has suffered two losses and three blown saves in his last seven outings since May 20 while posting a 2.67 WHIP over six innings. In these games, he has a 14.7 K-BB percentage, a 74.4 percent contact rate allowed, and an 82.8 Z-Contact (in the strike zone) percentage. His four-seam fastball has been the culprit, especially when seeing the location of them between May 20 and last night:

In 2025, he has a .356 weighted on-base average (wOBA) with the four-seam and an 82.5 percent contact rate allowed in the strike zone, up 8.8 percent versus last year. There is a fine line between throwing strikes and commanding one’s arsenal, which Scott has not accomplished during this rough stretch. Hope for fantasy players lies in his rolling expected weighted on-base average (xwOBA) chart from Statcast:

Hopefully, this stretch will be a blip on his season, but save chances may be dispersed among other relievers until he gets command of the four-seam.

  • Lou Trivino retired the side and struck out one at the top of the ninth.
  • Jack Dreyer logged two clean frames and recorded one strikeout.

Updated Hierarchy: *Tanner Scott | *Ben Casparius | *Alex Vesia

*= closer-by-committee

Kirby Yates may be activated shortly and will be a leverage option. 

Milwaukee Brewers – Preserving a one-run lead, Trevor Megill nailed down his 12th save, firing a clean bottom of the ninth in Cincinnati against the 7-8-9 lineup pocket. He threw 13 pitches (69.2 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%) while recording one strikeout.

He has secured a save in his last five appearances. He owns a 1.23 WHIP with 22 strikeouts against 11 walks (12.8 K-BB%) across 20.1 innings.

  • Abner Uribe retired the side and recorded two strikeouts for his MLB-leading 16th hold.
  • Jared Koenig notched his ninth hold with a scoreless seventh, walking one and striking out two.
  • Rob Zastryzny stranded a runner despite allowing a hit and recorded a strikeout over two-thirds scoreless in the sixth, getting credit for his first hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

New York Mets – Playing matchups at the bottom of the tenth with a two-run lead, José Castillo faced the Dodgers’ 3-4-5 hitters but walked Freddie Freeman and gave up Andy Pages RBI single, scoring the “place” runner before striking out Max Muncy, prompting his removal. Castillo was credited with his second hold.

José Buttó took over with two runners and one out. He retired both batters, securing his first save while throwing seven pitches (71.4 Strike%) with one whiff.

Edwin Díaz suffered his first blown save, allowing Tommy Edman’s lead-off single, a stolen base, a one-out Hyesong Kim single, and a game-tying sacrifice fly by Shohei Ohtani. Díaz collected his third win courtesy of the two-run rally at the top of the tenth and finished with two hits and an earned run while striking out two on 19 pitches (12 strikes – 63.2 Strike%) with five whiffs (26.3 SwStr%).

  • Ryne Stanek notched his fifth hold with a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit.

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Reed Garrett | Ryne Stanek

San Diego Padres – Completing a combined shutout in a pitcher’s duel, Robert Suarez tossed two scoreless frames, including the bottom of the tent, en route to his first win. He threw an efficient 20 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff in San Francisco.

This represents his second appearance requiring four or more outs, but his second in his last three since May 30. He also extended his scoreless streak to six games, recording this win and four saves with seven strikeouts versus zero walks (28 K-BB%) and a 0.548 WHIP through 7.1 innings.

  • Jason Adam tossed a scoreless eighth, allowing a hit and a walk (intentional – Willy Adames) while striking out three.
  • Jeremiah Estrada stranded a runner despite issuing two walks while striking out one in one-third of the seventh.
  • Adrian Morejon took over in the sixth, stranding a runner and allowing a walk with two strikeouts during a scoreless combined inning.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

Quick Hits

  • Detroit Tigers: Finishing a lopsided 12-run win over the White Sox, John Brebbia retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the bottom of the ninth. Dylan Smith made his major league debut, allowing a hit and a walk while tossing two scoreless frames.
  • Miami Marlins: Appearing in a loss, Jesús Tinoco retired the side at the top of the sixth on nine pitches.
  • Minnesota Twins: Closing a six-run win over The Athletics, Kody Funderburk navigated around two walks for a scoreless bottom of the ninth. Justin Topa allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts in the eighth. Louis Varland retired the side while striking out one in the seventh. Brock Stewart worked a scoreless sixth, walking and striking out one.
  • San Francisco Giants: Entering a scoreless tie at the top of the tenth, Ryan Walker suffered his third loss following a sacrifice bunt and a go-ahead sacrifice fly. He retired all three batters but let the “place” runner score while throwing seven pitches (85.7 Strike%). Randy Rodríguez fired a clean ninth and recorded two strikeouts. Since May 1, he has logged 13 scoreless appearances, spanning 14 innings, with a 0.571 WHIP and 22 strikeouts against three walks (39.5 K-BB%).

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