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Monkey Bytes | June 2

Sunday’s slate provided five wins, though one was accompanied by a blown save (Andrés Muñoz) and ten saves. Relief pitchers were also tagged with four losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB
Robert Suarez	19	11	63.6	9.1	2:0
Josh Hader	15	14	71.4	28.6	2:0
Emmanuel Clase	13	10	90	30	2:0
Edwin Díaz	13	17	70.6	23.5	3:0
Trevor Megill	11	20	70	10	1:0
Aroldis Chapman	9	16	75	18.8	1:1
Will Vest	9	9	77.8	11.1	0:0
Camilo Doval	7	21	42.9	0	0:2
Justin Martinez	4	13	69.2	7.7	2:0
Bryan Baker	1	13	61.5	15.4	2:0

There were some hierarchical changes. One in Boston, with Justin Slaten being placed on the 15-day injured list, and a slight tweak in Baltimore’s following Bryan Baker‘s ancillary save.

This may be precautionary, but Luke Weaver stopped warming up with a four-run lead in Los Angeles due to a slight hamstring issue, according to a tweet from Erik Boland.

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for June 2

Tyler Rogers (SF): Doval has recorded four-out saves in two of the previous three days, throwing 39 pitches.

Vulture Save Stashes for June 3

Jeremiah Estrada (SD): If Suarez pitches tonight, it’s back-to-back games and three in the last four.
Garrett Whitlock (BOS): If Chapman pitches, he will have worked in consecutive games and three of the previous four.
Beau Brieske (DET): If Vest and Kahnle pitch on Monday, they will have appeared in two straight contests.

Three Takeaways

(1) J-Mart records a clean save: Handed a two-run lead at the top of the ninth, Justin Martinez recorded his first save since April 27 and fourth this season, retiring the side and striking out two against the Nationals. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and induced one whiff while facing the 7-8-9 lineup pocket.

His velocity has held firm since being recalled, but his command remains a work in progress:

He has been scoreless in his last two and is back in the mix for save chances from now on. Shelby Miller fired a clean eighth and recorded two strikeouts for his seventh hold. Cristian Mena collected his first win, logging two scoreless frames and giving up a hit and a walk while striking out two.

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

*= closer-by-committee

(2) Raisel’s clean without a slider: For a second straight appearance, Raisel Iglesias did not throw a slider. In a loss against Boston, he fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts versus Boston’s 8-9-1 lineup pocket. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

Through 22.1 innings, he has a 1.30 WHIP with 24 strikeouts against four walks (21.1 K-BB%). Over his last two appearances, he has thrown 11 four-seam fastballs, 11 sinkers, and 11 change-ups. But the usage pattern from Sunday’s outing should be a template for future success.

(3) Hader’s shoving: Locking down his 15th save and preserving a 1-0 win, Josh Hader retired the side and recorded two strikeouts against the Rays’ 3-4-5 batters. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to six games, and he’s registered multiple strikeouts in his last three, recording eight of his last nine outs via strikeout. In these games, he has produced 15 whiffs (28.3 swinging strike percentage) of his 53 pitches.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Sunday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Baltimore Orioles – Filling in capably at the top of the ninth, Bryan Baker nailed down his first save of the season and first since 2022 by retiring the side while recording two strikeouts. He threw 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).

Andrew Kittredge retired both batters at the top of the eighth on three pitches for his first hold.
Gregory Soto allowed Mike Tauchman’s solo home run during his two-thirds combined innings, getting credit for his 12th hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Félix Bautista | Seranthony Domínguez | Bryan Baker

Boston Red Sox – Preserving a two-run win and recording his ninth save, Aroldis Chapman navigated around a one-out walk with a game-ending strikeout. He faced Atlanta’s 5-6-7-8 hitters, throwing 16 pitches (75 Strike%) and producing three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%).

He owns a 1.00 WHIP with 32 strikeouts against nine walks (23.9 K-BB%) across 24 innings.

Greg Weissert fired a clean eighth, striking out one for his ninth hold.
Before this game, Justin Slaten (shoulder fatigue) was placed on the 15-day injured list.

Updated Hierarchy: Aroldis Chapman | Greg Weissert | Justin Wilson

Cleveland Guardians – Slamming the door on his 13th save, Emmanuel Clase fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts against the Angels’ 5-6-7 lineup pocket. He threw 10 pitches (90 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (30 SwStr%).

He has converted nine consecutive save chances since April 30 with a 0.709 WHIP and 15 strikeouts versus two walks (26.5 K-BB%) in 13 outings spanning 12.2 innings.

Matt Festa stranded a runner and retired his only batter via strikeout in the eighth for his second hold.
Hunter Gaddis gave up two hits and a walk while striking out two during a scoreless combined inning, securing his 14th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Detroit Tigers – Nailing down his ninth save, Will Vest retired the Royals’ 6-7-8 lineup pocket in order, throwing nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) with one whiff (11.1 SwStr%).

In his last seven appearances, he has recorded a win and five saves with a 0.959 WHIP, striking out five against two walks over 7.1 innings.

Tommy Kahnle recorded his eighth hold, allowing a hit during a scoreless eighth.
Chase Lee collected his second win, logging 1.1 scoreless frames and striking out one.
Tyler Holton stranded a runner in the fifth and gave up a hit while striking out one during his scoreless combined inning.

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

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

Milwaukee Brewers – Securing his 11th save, Trevor Megill navigated around Brandon Marsh’s lead-off single by retiring the next three batters, one via strikeout. He threw 20 pitches (70 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (10 SwStr%) while facing the 7-8-9-1 hitters in Philadelphia.

Since April 30, he has converted all nine save chances and been scoreless in 11 of 13 appearances with a 1.25 WHIP and 12 strikeouts versus seven walks (9.8 K-BB%) over 12 innings.

Abner Uribe retired the side at the bottom of the eighth for his National League-leading 15th hold.
Jared Koenig allowed a hit during a scoreless seventh, notching his eighth hold.
Nick Mears collected his first win, retiring the side and striking out one in the sixth, ahead of his team’s rally at the top of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

New York Mets – Sealing his 13th save, Edwin Díaz worked around Sam Hilliard’s lead-off single by striking out the next three batters, preserving a two-run win over the Rockies. He threw 17 pitches (12 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (23.5 SwStr%).

His hitless streak since May 10 was snapped, but Díaz extended his scoreless streak to 11, during which he has converted all six save chances with a 0.531 WHIP and 16 strikeouts against four walks (30 K-BB%) through 11.1 innings.

Reed Garrett notched his 13th hold, yielding a hit and striking out two in a scoreless top of the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Reed Garrett | Ryne Stanek

Philadelphia Phillies – In order of appearance, Orion Kerkering suffered his second loss and his fourth blown save at the top of the seventh. He entered with a runner on second and no outs. With one out, he issued a walk, then induced a fielder’s choice groundout by Jackson Chorio before an error on a William Contreras scored the game-tying run, followed by Jake Bauers producing a two-RBI double. Kerkering finished with a hit, two runs (zero earned), and a walk during his outing.

Matt Strahm worked a clean eighth and recorded a strikeout.
Jordan Romano gave up a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two at the top of the ninth.

Hierarchy Remains: Jordan Romano | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

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

San Diego Padres – Capping his team’s come-from-behind rally, Robert Suarez locked down his MLB-leading 19th save, retiring the side and recording two strikeouts against the Pirates. He threw 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) and one whiff.

He has a modest five-game scoreless streak and converted all four saves in it, striking out six of 18 batters faced (33.3 K%) with a 0.566 WHIP.

Jason Adam notched his 15th hold, firing a clean eighth and striking out one.
Adrian Morejon collected his third win, stranding a runner and retiring his only batter in the seventh.
David Morgan logged 1.2 scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

San Francisco Giants – Pressed into action at the top of the eighth with two runners on and two outs, Camilo Doval issued a walk on four straight pitches, including a wild pitch, before inducing an inning-ending groundout. Returning for the ninth, he allowed a lead-off single, produced a double play groundout, walked Otto Lopez, and ended the game on an Agustín Ramírez groundout, preserving the two-run margin and securing his seventh save. Doval threw 21 pitches (9 strikes – 42.9 Strike%) without a whiff in this outing.

Erik Miller gave up two hits and a walk during two-thirds of the eighth, getting credit for his seventh hold.
Tyler Rogers let one of three inherited runners score, giving up a hit and striking out one in two-thirds of the seventh for his 12th hold.
Jordan Hicks allowed an earned run while issuing three walks and recorded a strikeout but was awarded his first hold.
Ryan Walker stranded two runners and retired both batters, one via strikeout for his third hold in the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Camilo Doval | Ryan Walker | Tyler Rogers

Seattle Mariners – After allowing the game-tying run at the top of the ninth, Andrés Muñoz collected his second win while getting tagged with his fourth blown save on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. His outing began with a strikeout, followed by a walk and Ty France’s single. With two runners on, he threw a wild pitch, putting both runners in scoring position ahead of Harrison Bader’s sacrifice fly and an inning-ending strikeout. Muñoz threw 27 pitches (15 strikes – 55.6 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (18.5 SwStr%).

Following 24 appearances without an earned run, he has given up at least one during his last two.

Matt Brash notched his fifth hold, allowing a hit and a hit batter while striking out two in a scoreless eighth.
Eduard Bazardo retired the side in the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Carlos Vargas | Matt Brash

Quick Hits

Chicago Cubs: Logging a non-save appearance, Ryan Brasier allowed a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one at the top of the ninth, closing out a four-run win over the Reds. Ryan Pressly fired a clean eighth, striking out the side on 15 pitches (60 Strike%) with two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%). Caleb Thielbar notched his fifth hold, retiring both batters at the top of the seventh.
Colorado Rockies: Entering at the bottom of the eighth in an eventual loss, Zach Agnos allowed Juan Soto’s solo home run, ending his modest five-game scoreless streak.
Minnesota Twins: A tough luck outing for Griffin Jax, entering a tied game at the bottom of the ninth. He allowed an infield single by Julio Rodríguez and recorded a strikeout against Cal Raleigh. During Randy Arozarena’s at-bat, Rodríguez stole second and moved to third on a throwing error, then scored on an RBI single against a drawn-in infield. Jax suffered his third loss as a result.
New York Yankees: Finishing a four-run win over the Dodgers, Tim Hill retired the side and recorded a strikeout versus the 3-4-5 lineup pocket. Devin Williams recorded his seventh hold, firing a clean eighth and recording two strikeouts on 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with three whiffs (25 SwStr%) facing the 9-1-2 hitters. He has been scoreless in 10 of his last 11 appearances while posting a 0.80 WHIP with 15 strikeouts against two walks across 10 innings.
Pittsburgh Pirates: Called upon with a runner on and two outs, Chase Shugart retired his only batter at the bottom of the sixth, recording his third hold. Tanner Rainey struggled with his command, allowing a hit, four earned runs, and three walks over one-third of the seventh, resulting in his first loss while getting credit for his second hold. Caleb Ferguson let all three inherited runners score, allowing two hits and a walk while striking out one for his third blown save.
Texas Rangers: Closing a seven-run win, Luke Jackson worked around a fielding error with a scoreless top of the ninth and recorded one strikeout. Hoby Milner notched his fifth hold, stranding a runner and logging 1.1 clean frames while striking out one. Shawn Armstrong secured his third hold, allowing a hit during two-thirds scoreless in the seventh.
Toronto Blue Jays: Taking over at the top of the ninth with a four-run lead, Jeff Hoffman retired the side and recorded two strikeouts against two pinch hitters and The Athletics’ seventh hitter. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) without a whiff. Erik Swanson collected his first win despite allowing a hit and an earned run while striking out one at the top of the eighth. He worked ahead of his team’s six-run rally at the bottom of the inning.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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Statistical Credits:

BrooksBaseball.net

Monkey Bytes | June 1

Saturday was a strange slate with a mix of shutouts and some lopsided contests. Relievers recorded five and seven saves while suffering four losses. Here are the condensed recaps of the saves:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB
Carlos Estévez	16	14	64.2	0	0:0
Jeff Hoffman	13	18	66.7	5.6	1:1
Emmanuel Clase	12	10	70	10	0:0
Ryan Helsley	12	15	73.3	40	2:0
Félix Bautista	10	23	47.8	13	3:2
Daniel Palencia	5	15	73.3	13.3	1:0
Calvin Faucher	4	18	61.1	11.1	0:0

Faucher has recorded back-to-back saves, although Miami’s usage patterns remain fluid under new manager Clayton McCullough; however, the hierarchy has shifted once again. Washington designated Jorge López for assignment and will rely more on its younger relievers.

With only seven games on Monday, there are limited vulture save opportunities:

Vulture Save Options for June 1

Seranthony Domínguez (BAL): Bautista has logged 52 pitches over the previous two days.
Griffin Jax (MIN): Durán has appeared in consecutive contests.
Dennis Santana (PIT): Bednar has worked in back-to-back games, though his pitch count has only been 17.

Three Takeaways

(1) Hoffman back on the hot seat: The good news is that Jeff Hoffman recorded his 13th save during a one-run win over The Athletics. However, he issued a one-out walk sandwiched between two outs, then allowed Brent Rooker’s two-run home run and Tyler Soderstrom’s double before a game-ending lineout up the middle.

Hoffman finished with two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one, throwing 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with one whiff. Through 10 appearances in May, he has allowed multiple runs in four games, 14 hits (five home runs), and 15 earned runs with 14 strikeouts against six walks (16 K-BB%), resulting in a 2.00 WHIP. Here are his splits by month:

Split	IP	Saves/Opps	K:BB	K-BB%	WHIP	SwStr%	BAbip	wOBA	SIERA
Mar/Apr	15.1	6/6	22:1	39.6	0.59	18.5	.241	.178	1.15
May	10	7/10	14:6	16	2.00	14.1	.360	.474	3.53

Beneath his 6.04 ERA lies a 2.17 SIERA and a 2.61 xERA. He has already matched his home run total from last year (six). He may need a reset or a couple of lower-leveraged outings, but if Ernie Clement did not make a diving play up the middle yesterday, this could have been a fourth blown save. Hoffman’s walk rate must improve, along with better results across his arsenal. Monitor this closely in June.

Although he does not receive much fantasy attention, Yariel Rodríguez stranded both inherited runners at the top of the seventh and retired all four batters, two via strikeout, for his seventh hold. He’s amid an 11-game scoreless streak, spanning 15.1 innings with 16 strikeouts against two walks (28.6 K-BB%) and a 0.446 WHIP.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Yariel Rodríguez | Chad Green

(2) “The Mountain” and efficiency, part 2: Despite throwing a season-high 29 pitches last night, Félix Bautista received the call with a two-run lead at the top of the ninth. He responded, but it was a grind recording his tenth save while working around two walks while striking out three in a scoreless appearance. He threw 23 pitches (11 strikes – 47.8 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (13 SwStr%).

Although he allowed at least a run in five of his ten outings in May, he converted five of six save chances with a 1.546 WHIP and 13 strikeouts versus eight walks (11.6 K-BB%) over 9.2 innings. Now, fantasy managers await how he responds following this heavy usage pattern. Unless his command improves, the WHIP may not.

(3) Yankees splits in May: Appearing for the first time in five days, Luke Weaver took over at the bottom of the seventh with his team down by 13 runs against the Dodgers’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket. He retired the first two batters, one via strikeout, then allowed Andy Pages’ solo home run and induced an inning-ending pop-out. Weaver threw 14 pitches (9 strikes – 64.2 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%). He has allowed a home run in two of his last three games and finished May with a 0.855 WHIP while recording 10 strikeouts against two walks (18.2 K-BB%) over 11.2 innings.

Devin Williams entered with the bases loaded and one out at the bottom of the sixth. He induced an inning-ending double play groundout by Miguel Rojas. He was scoreless in 10 of 12 appearances in May, posting a 1.028 WHIP with 16 strikeouts versus four walks (27.9 K-BB%) through 10.2 innings. There is no imminent change in the hierarchy, but June will be an intriguing month for this leverage ladder.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest.

Closer CliffsNotes

Chicago Cubs –Nailing down his fifth save, Daniel Palencia retired the side and recorded a strikeout while facing the Reds’ 9-1-2 lineup pocket. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%).

He has converted a save in his last five appearances and finished May with a 0.75 WHIP and 15 strikeouts versus three walks (26.6 K-BB%) through 12 innings.

Brad Keller collected his second win, tossing a clean top of the eighth ahead of his team’s two-run rally at the bottom of the inning.
As the “bulk follower,” Ben Brown logged six scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out nine.

Hierarchy Remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Drew Pomeranz

Cleveland Guardians – Locking down his 12th save, Emmanuel Clase fired a clean top of the ninth, needing only 10 pitches (70 Strike%), and induced one whiff.

He converted all seven save chances in May while posting a 0.654 WHIP with 10 strikeouts versus two walks (19.5 K-BB%) across 10.2 innings.

Cade Smith retired the side and recorded two strikeouts at the top of the eighth for his 11th hold.
Logan T. Allen worked a clean seventh, striking out two, and collected his third win after a two-run rally at the bottom of the inning.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Kansas City Royals – Preserving a one-run win and a combined shutout, Carlos Estévez worked around Colt Keith’s two-out single with a game-ending groundout by Riley Greene for his 16th save. He threw 14 pitches (64.2 Strike%) without a whiff.

He was scoreless in nine of ten appearances in May, recording a win and converting all seven save chances with a 0.971 WHIP and 10 strikeouts against one walk (22.5 K-BB%) in 10.1 innings.

John Schreiber collected his second win, issuing a walk and striking out two in a scoreless top of the eighth, ahead of the game’s only run at the bottom of the inning.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber

Miami Marlins – Protecting a 1-0 lead, Calvin Faucher navigated around Heliot Ramos’ two-out single with a game-ending groundout against Jung Hoo Lee for his fourth save. He threw 18 pitches (11 strikes – 61.1 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%).

He has recorded a save in consecutive outings.

Anthony Bender notched his seventh hold, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one in the eighth inning.
Ronny Henriquez stranded two runners at the top of the sixth while retiring all four batters, two via strikeout, securing his seventh hold.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Minnesota Twins – Summoned at the bottom of the fifth with the bases loaded and no outs, Louis Varland stranded all three, retiring all three batters faced, two via strikeout.

Brock Stewart notched his sixth hold with a clean sixth while striking out one.
Jorge Alcala was tagged with his first blown save, allowing two hits, including J.P. Crawford’s go-ahead two-run home run and a walk.
Justin Topa retired the side in the eighth.
Griffin Jax kept the game tied, navigating around two hits and a walk (intentional – Cal Raleigh) with an inning-ending strikeout.
Jhoan Durán fired a clean bottom of the tenth and recorded a strikeout on 14 pitches (57.1 Strike%) with two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%), extending his scoreless streak to four games.
Cole Sands suffered his second loss. A sacrifice bunt moved the “place” runner to third, and a fielder’s choice ground ball scored him.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Louis Varland

St. Louis Cardinals – Ending the month on a high note, Ryan Helsley retired Rangers’ 2-3-4 hitters in order while recording two strikeouts and his 13th save. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (40 SwStr%).

He has a modest four-game scoreless streak and finished May with nine saves, a 1.273 WHIP, and 13 strikeouts versus three walks (20.8 K-BB%) through 11 innings.

Phil Maton issued a walk during a scoreless eighth, securing his 11th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Ryan Helsley | Phil Maton | JoJo Romero

Quick Hits

Arizona Diamondbacks: In an eventual loss, Shelby Miller retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the top of the ninth. He has been scoreless in four of his last five appearances and has not posted a save since May 19.
Detroit Tigers: Taking over a scoreless contest at the bottom of the eighth, Beau Brieske allowed two hits, including Vinnie Pasquantino’s RBI single, resulting in his second loss.
Los Angeles Angels: Entering at the bottom of the sixth, Héctor Neris retired his only batter, recording his fifth hold. Ryan Zeferjahn suffered his first loss and a second blown save, allowing three hits, three earned runs, and a walk during two-thirds of the seventh.
Pittsburgh Pirates: Capping a combined shutout, David Bednar fired a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out one on 17 pitches (10 strikes – 58.8 Strike%) with one whiff. He faced the Padres’ 1-2-3 lineup pocket and has a four-game scoreless streak. Through 13 appearances in May, he had two losses, three saves, and a hold with a 1.11 WHIP while striking out 16 against two walks (29.1 K-BB%) across 11.2 innings.
San Diego Padres: Making his MLB debut, Bradgley Rodriguez stranded two runners at the top of the seventh and logged 1.2 scoreless frames, walking and striking out one. He threw 25 pitches (44 Strike%) and induced one whiff.
Seattle Mariners: Perhaps being the last reliever available, Collin Snider collected his second win, pitching the tenth and 11th innings, stranding both “place” runners with help from his defense. He allowed two hits and a walk while striking out one. Carlos Vargas suffered his second blown save on a self-inflicted throwing error, letting Byron Buxton reach third on a wild throw to first base on an infield hit. He gave up two hits and an unearned run while striking out one in the ninth, appearing for a third straight contest. Jackson Kowar worked a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit.
The Athletics: Making his first appearance since May 25, Mason Miller retired the side and recorded a strikeout against Toronto’s 4-5-6 lineup pocket. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He allowed at least a run in five of nine outings in May, posting a 2.069 WHIP with 15 strikeouts versus eight walks (15.9 K-BB%) across 8.2 innings.
Washington Nationals: Finishing a four-run win, Cole Henry worked two scoreless innings, allowing a hit and two walks while striking out two. He threw 32 pitches (15 strikes – 46.9 Strike%) with four whiffs (12.5 SwStr%). Jose A. Ferrer tossed a scoreless bottom of the seventh while facing Arizona’s 2-3-4 lineup pocket. He hit Ketel Marte with a pitch, induced a ground ball double play, and an inning-ending groundout by Josh Naylor. Before this game, the team designated Jorge López for assignment.

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Monkey Bytes | May 31

Friday’s full slate resulted in four wins by relievers and nine saves while suffering four losses. There were a couple of surprises during leverage events and a career-first save. Here is our condensed chart:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB
Robert Suarez	18	19	68.4	10.5	3:0
Kyle Finnegan	16	22	63.6	13.6	0:0
Emilio Pagán	14	8	75	12.5	1:0
Edwin Díaz	12	14	71.4	21.4	3:0
Félix Bautista	8	29	62.1	17.2	2:1
Will Vest	8	23	69.6	8.7	1:0
Camilo Doval	6	18	61.1	11.1	2:1
Alex Vesia	2	11	63.6	9.1	0:0
Caleb Boushley	1	37	67.6	16.2	4:0

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for May 31

Seranthony Domínguez (BAL): Bautista threw 29 pitches during his save on Friday night.
Jorge López (WSH): Finnegan has pitched in back-to-back games.
Justin Slaten (BOS): Chapman has pitched in three of the previous four days.
Collin Snider (SEA): Muñoz, Vargas, and Brash have all appeared in consecutive contests.

Vulture Save Stash for June 1

Griffin Jax (MIN): If Durán pitches today, it’s consecutive outings for the closer.
Adrian Morejon (SD): If Suarez, Adam, and Estrada pitch today, it will be back-to-back games for the Padres leverage triumvirate.

Three Takeaways

(1) “The Mountain” and efficiency: Laboring through the top of the ninth, Félix Bautista could not preserve the shutout but did record his ninth save. After retiring the first hitter via groundout, he allowed Mike Tauchman’s double, recorded a strikeout, then gave up Andrew Benintendi’s RBI double, walked Luis Robert Jr., and produced a game-ending strikeout, preserving a one-run win. Bautista threw a season-high 29 pitches (18 strikes – 62.1 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (17.2 SwStr%), giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two.

He has converted four of five save chances in May despite allowing at least a run in five of his eight appearances. Of his 18 appearances, he has thrown at least 20 pitches in eight and 25 or more pitches in three. Returning from Tommy John surgery, it will be tough logging outings on consecutive days if he’s not more efficient with his pitches.

(2) Vesia in the ninth? Protecting a three-run lead at the top of the ninth, Alex Vesia secured his second save, working around a lead-off single by Trent Grisham by retiring the 2-3-4 hitters in the Yankees’ lineup on two flyouts and a game-ending lineout to third. He threw 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

This represents his first save since March 19. Tanner Scott recorded his fifth hold, retiring DJ LeMahieu on a flyout at the bottom of the eighth, stranding runners at the corners.

After his blown save in Cleveland, Dave Roberts may not use his reliever across two innings until he’s entirely back on track. Ben Casparius gets credit for his seventh hold, tossing a scoreless combined inning, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out one.

(3) Doval converts his first save as the closer: During his first save chance as the closer, Camilo Doval took over at the bottom of the eighth with two runners and two outs. He stranded both with an inning-ending flyout, then returned for the ninth, issuing a two-out walk, throwing a wild pitch, and producing a game-ending strikeout for his sixth save. He threw 18 pitches (11 strikes – 61.1 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%).

He extended his scoreless streak to 20 games, during which he has 20 strikeouts against six walks (23. K-BB%) across 19.1 innings.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Friday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Boston Red Sox – Sealing a four-run win over Atlanta, Aroldis Chapman retired the side and recorded two strikeouts against the 8-9-1 lineup pocket. He threw 14 pitches (643. Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%).

Through 11.2 innings this month, he has a 1-1 record while converting four of five save chances with 14 strikeouts versus four walks (21.3 K-BB%) and a 1.026 WHIP.

Greg Weissert worked a clean eighth, securing his eighth hold.
Brennan Bernardino stranded two runners and retired Matt Olson in the seventh for his first hold.
Garrett Whitlock collected his fourth win, logging 1.2 scoreless frames, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Justin Slaten | Justin Wilson

Cincinnati Reds – Pressed into action with two runners in scoring position and one out at the bottom of the ninth, Emilio Pagán recorded a strikeout and induced a game-ending groundout by Nico Hoerner, preserving the four-run margin while securing his 14th save. He threw eight pitches (75 Strike%) and produced one whiff (12.5 SwStr%).

This snapped his two-game streak of allowing at least a run, and he has converted his last six save opportunities, but he has given up a run in five of 11 games in May with a 1.416 WHP across 11.1 innings.

Graham Ashcraft gets credit for his eighth hold. He stranded two runners at the bottom of the eighth, then allowed consecutive doubles in the ninth, prompting his removal, finishing with a scoreless combined inning.
Tony Santillan gave up three hits, two earned runs, and a walk while retiring one batter in the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Detroit Tigers – Handed a three-run lead, Will Vest recorded his eighth save despite allowing two hits, including Drew Waters’ RBI single, before inducing a game-ending groundout. Vest threw 23 pitches (16 strikes – 69.6 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (8.7 SwStr%).

This marks his second consecutive game allowing a run, but he has posted three wins while converting five of six save chances in May with a 1.143 WHIP and 15 strikeouts versus four walks (19 K-BB%) across 14 innings.

Tommy Kahnle notched his fifth hold, retiring the side and recording two strikeouts in the eighth.
Beau Brieske worked a clean seventh, striking out two for his fifth hold.
Brenan Hanifee gave up two hits, an earned run, and a walk in the sixth, getting credit for his eighth hold.
Brant Hurter stranded two runners at the bottom of the fourth and logged 1.2 scoreless frames, walking and striking out two while collecting his second win.

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

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

Los Angeles Angels – After his team added a run at the top of the ninth, Kenley Jansen could not complete the combined shutout in a non-save appearance. He issued Carlos Santana a lead-off walk, recorded two outs, issued another walk, and gave up Nolan Jones’ RBI single before inducing a game-ending flyout by Steven Kwan. Jansen threw 25 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He has converted five saves since May 3 but has posted a 1.379 WHIP in his last 8.2 innings.

Ryan Zeferjahn recorded his ninth hold, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
Reid Detmers retired all three batters in the eighth, two via strikeout for his third hold. He’s on a modest five-game scoreless streak.
Robert Stephenson was removed after throwing three pitches.

Updated Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Ryan Zeferjahn | Reid Detmers

Minnesota Twins – Preserving the tie, Jhoan Durán retired the side at the bottom of the ninth and recorded a strikeout versus Seattle’s 7-8-9 lineup pocket. He collected his fourth win when his teammates plated six runs at the top of the tenth. Durán threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%).

Through 14 games in May, he has a 4-1 record while converting seven of eight save chances with a 1.214 WHIP and 19 strikeouts against five walks (23.7 K-BB%) across 14 innings.

Brock Stewart tossed a clean tenth, preserving a six-run victory.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Louis Varland

New York Mets – Locking down his 12th save, Edwin Díaz fired a clean top of the ninth, striking out the side against Colorado’s 6-7-8 lineup pocket, preserving a two-run win. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%).

This extends his scoreless streak to 10 games, during which he has recorded a win and converted five saves with 13 strikeouts against four walks (25 K-BB%) over 10.1 innings. He has not allowed a hit since May 5 (8.1 innings).

Reed Garrett notched his 12th hold, working a clean eighth and striking out two.
Huascar Brazobán stranded two runners at the top of the sixth and gave up Sam Hilliard’s solo home run in the seventh, securing his seventh save during his 1.1 innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Reed Garrett | Ryne Stanek

San Diego Padres – Forced into action at the top of the eighth with the bases loaded and two outs, Robert Suarez retired Henry Davis via strikeout. Returning for the ninth, he recorded two more strikeouts while retiring the side and preserving his MLB-leading 18th save. He threw 19 pitches (13 strikes – 68.4 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (10.5 SwStr%).

After recording seven saves requiring four or more outs last year, this marks his first one this season.

Jason Adam gets credit for his 14th hold despite allowing a two-out double and issuing two walks before being removed in the eighth.
Jeremiah Estrada fired a clean seventh, striking out two for his tenth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

Seattle Mariners – Regression can strike at any time, and came calling for Andrés Muñoz on Friday night. He took over at the top of the ninth with a three-run lead and allowed a lead-off single by Ty France, then recorded consecutive strikeouts. However, with two outs, things turned. Willi Castro launched a two-run home run, followed by Byron Buxton’s single, a stolen base, and a game-tying RBI single by Trevor Larnach, handed Muñoz his third blown save and first earned runs all season. He threw 14 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. As his pitch results indicate, fatigue may have played a role with his command in this appearance:

Casey Legumina was tagged with his third loss, giving up four hits, six runs (five earned), and two walks during the tenth.
Before the ninth, Carlos Vargas notched his eighth hold, walking and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
Matt Brash retired his only batter in the seventh via strikeout for his fourth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Carlos Vargas | Matt Brash

Washington Nationals – Entering with a three-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, Kyle Finnegan hit lead-off batter Corbin Caroll with a pitch, who promptly stole second and scored after consecutive groundouts before a game-ending flyout, resulting in his 16th save. He threw 22 pitches (14 strikes – 63.6 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%).

He has converted seven of eight save chances in May with a 1.00 WHIP and five strikeouts versus one walk (11.4 K-BB%) in nine innings.

Brad Lord logged two innings, giving up a hit and two walks while striking out three for his first hold.
Andrew Chafin notched his third hold, allowing a hit and striking out two in a scoreless sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Kyle Finnegan | Jose A. Ferrer | Jorge López

Quick Hits

Cleveland Guardians: Forced into action following an injury, Cade Smith retired both batters at the top of the ninth and recorded one strikeout on eight pitches (75 Strike%) with two whiffs (25 SwStr%). Andrew Walters allowed Jorge Soler’s solo home run and left after throwing nine pitches.
Colorado Rockies: Appearing during an eventual loss, Seth Halvorsen allowed two hits, including Francisco Lindor’s solo home run at the bottom of the eighth.
Miami Marlins: In a shutout loss, Janson Junk logged four scoreless frames, scattering three hits and striking out five on 55 pitches (37 strikes – 67.3 Strike%) with nine whiffs (16.4 SwStr%).
Milwaukee Brewers: Working as the “bulk follower,” Quinn Priester logged six innings, allowing four hits and two earned runs while collecting his second win in Philadelphia.
Pittsburgh Pirates: Appearing in a one-run loss, David Bednar retired the side at the bottom of the eighth, facing the Padres’ 9-1-2 lineup pocket on four pitches, all strikes. Tanner Rainey worked a clean seventh and recorded two strikeouts.
Tampa Bay Rays: Taking over a tied game at the bottom of the ninth, Garrett Cleavinger recorded consecutive strikeouts, then served up Yainer Diaz’s walk-off home run, resulting in his first loss.
Texas Rangers: Closing a lopsided contest, Caleb Boushley recorded his first career save, logging three innings, giving up two hits and an earned run while striking out four against St. Louis. Shawn Armstrong stranded a runner while retiring his only batter in the sixth.

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Monkey Bytes | May 30

Thursday’s five-game slate provided three relievers wins and one save against three losses. Unfortunately, there are no vulture plays, and the only save will be covered in our game recaps. However, as a bonus, a deep dive into Alexis Díaz will be included following his trade to the Dodgers:

But first, the game recaps from Thursday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Atlanta Braves – (Game 1) – Summoned with the bases loaded and one out, Dylan Dodd retired both batters at the bottom of the eighth, one via strikeout. Daysbel Hernández suffered his first loss, allowing a hit, an earned run, a hit batter, and two walks while recording one out during his one-third of the eighth. Pierce Johnson gave up Kyle Schwarber’s solo home run and retired two during the seventh. Aaron Bummer logged 1.1 scoreless frames while striking out one.

(Game 2) – Finishing a six-run win, Raisel Iglesias allowed Bryson Stott’s lead-off double at the bottom of the ninth, induced a groundout, and gave up Trea Turner’s RBI single before striking out Kyle Schwarber then retiring Alec Bohm on a game-ending flyout. He threw 20 pitches (70 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (20 SwStr%). First, his pitch illustrator:

Iglesias has allowed at least a run in two straight appearances, both in a non-save outing and given up at least a run in six of his last eight since May 8. He owns a 1.36 WHIP with 22 strikeouts against four walks (19.1 K-BB%) through 21.1 innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Raisel Iglesias | Daysbel Hernández | Dylan Lee

Houston Astros – A rare meltdown by Bryan King resulted in his first loss. He allowed five hits, including Junior Caminero’s three-run home run, and five earned runs while recording one out at the top of the seventh. Kaleb Ort put fuel on the fire, stranding a runner during the seventh, then giving up three earned runs on three walks and striking out two during his combined inning.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bryan King

Philadelphia Phillies – (Game 1) – It was a white-knuckle ride with Jordan Romano at the top of the ninth with a one-run lead, starting with a lead-off walk, a leverage no-no, but he was erased on a caught-stealing. After striking out Austin Riley, he walked Marcell Ozuna, then allowed a single by Matt Olson, loading the bases before inducing a game-ending strikeout against Eli White for his eighth save. He threw 24 pitches (11 strikes – 45.8 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (12.5 SwStr%) while posting a season-high in walks.

Still, fantasy managers will take the save. He has been scoreless in 11 of his last 12 appearances, converting all six save chances with 18 strikeouts against five walks (28.9 K-BB%) through 11.2 innings.

José Ruiz stranded a runner and retired his only batter at the top of the eighth while collecting his first win.
Matt Strahm allowed three hits and two earned runs over two-thirds of the eighth, resulting in his third blown save.
Orion Kerkering notched his tenth hold, working 1.1 scoreless frames, giving up two hits and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Jordan Romano | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

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

Seattle Mariners – Things did not go well at the top of the tenth for Collin Snider. He gave up four hits, seven runs (five earned), and a walk while retiring one batter, resulting in his first loss. Eduard Bazardo recorded the last two outs in the frame.

Andrés Muñoz fired a clean ninth and recorded a strikeout. He threw 12 pitches (7 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

He has posted a 0.68 WHIP with 29 strikeouts versus eight walks (23.9 K-BB%) across 23.2 innings with an American League-leading 17 saves.

Matt Brash navigated around three hits and recorded two strikeouts during a scoreless eighth.
Carlos Vargas allowed two hits during a scoreless seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Carlos Vargas | Matt Brash

Tampa Bay Rays – Timing can benefit a reliever. Edwin Uceta took over a tied game at the bottom of the sixth with a runner on and two outs. He allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout, throwing eight pitches (75 Strike%) and inducing a whiff (12.5 SwStr%), then collected his fourth win when his teammates rallied for five runs during the top of the seventh. He has not been able to replicate his strong second half from last season, and he has a 1.52 WHIP with 19 strikeouts versus 10 walks (8.8 K-BB%) across 23 innings.

Eric Orze logged two clean frames and recorded two strikeouts, extending his scoreless streak to six games. Over his last eight innings, he has a 0.50 WHIP with eight strikeouts against one walk (25 K-BB%).
Cole Sulser finished the ten-run win with a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Garrett Cleavinger

Washington Nationals – Making his first appearance since May 22 after experiencing shoulder fatigue, Kyle Finnegan closed a six-run run over Seattle despite allowing an RBI single by Leo Rivas at the bottom of the tenth, scoring the “place” runner. He bore down, producing a double play groundout by Julio Rodríguez, issued Cal Raleigh a walk, and a game-ending strikeout against Randy Arozarena. Finnegan threw 21 pitches (12 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) without a whiff.

Jose A. Ferrer collected his second win, logging 1.2 clean frames. He stranded two runners at the bottom of the eighth, then retired the side in the ninth, keeping the game tied.
Cole Henry stranded a runner during the seventh but hit a batter and issued a walk while striking out one during his two-thirds combined innings.
Jorge López suffered his third blown save, allowing two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Kyle Finnegan | Jose A. Ferrer | Jorge López

Alexis Díaz

Out of necessity, the Dodgers are attempting to help the former closer improve his velocity and command. Why would Los Angeles target the former All-Star?

As a leverage reliever with the Reds, Díaz converted 75 of his career 86 save chances. Before delving into his struggles with his four-seam fastball, he has pitched with a declining vertical release point since his debut in 2022:

In this season’s limited sample, it migrated toward his angle in 2022. Per the lower slots, he’s been less effective with his four-seam fastball since his debut in 2022:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/vtm49/2/

Last year yielded his first negative K-BB percentage with the pitch while allowing more contact and producing fewer whiffs. It’s not an ideal trend for a reliever who uses the four-seam fastball as his primary offering. Working with reduced velocity may make him less aggressive with the pitch. His Plinko chart of pitches by count courtesy of Statcast illustrates his reliance on the four-seam fastball when behind in the count:

His struggles lie within his command issues, which are accompanied by reduced velocity with the four-seam fastball:

Remaining focused on velocity, here are his splits with the four-seam courtesy of Statcast:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/KhD79/1/

Entering this season, there was an apparent chasm between his first 100 games (April 7, 2022, to July 9, 2023) versus his last 90 (July 14, 2023, to September 29, 2024):

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/logsl/2/

Can the Dodgers help him migrate his four-seam to the edges of the strike zone? Will his velocity rebound? These will be the biggest hurdles for the former closer. If they can, or he adds a cutter to increase his split results against left-handed hitters, my intrigue will be piqued. This may not be a quick fix, but there is enough to warrant Los Angeles to take a chance on him. Fantasy managers should be cautious, but if reports and early results are positive, he could work his way into ancillary save chances.

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