Monkey Bytes | May 29

Things were frenetic during Wednesday’s slate, with Bob Melvin announcing a change at closer for the San Francisco Giants. Camilo Doval will replace Ryan Walker as we advance based on this year’s performance by each reliever.

Wednesday’s full slate was reduced by one with a postponement in Philadelphia, which will be played as a split doubleheader today. Relievers recorded eight wins and nine saves while suffering five losses in yesterday’s 14 contests. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BB
Carlos Estévez15167518.81:0
Josh Hader142254.536.43:1
Ryan Helsley121693.812.50:0
Jeff Hoffman121478.621.41:0
Emmanuel Clase111080301:0
Tommy Kahnle71788.217.62:0
Daniel Palencia41471.321.42:0
Calvin Faucher3862.500:0
Mark Leiter Jr.215606.72:1

For the save streamers, a light and potentially volatile forecast:

Vulture Save Options for May 29

Doubleheader Suggestions

  • Atlanta Braves: Preferred option – Pierce Johnson; YOLO – Scott Blewett
  • Philadelphia Phillies: Preferred option – Tanner Banks; YOLO – Carlos Hernández

Vulture Save Stashes for May 30

  • Chad Green (TOR): If Hoffman pitches today, it’s back-to-back appearances and three in the last four days. 
  • Bryan King (HOU): If Hader and Abreu are used today, it’s consecutive contests for each reliever. 

Three Takeaways

(1) Camilo’s back: Riding a 19-game scoreless streak since April 12, Camilo Doval has reclaimed the closer role in San Francisco. He has recorded two wins, three saves, and seven holds during the streak, with 18 strikeouts against five walks (21.7 K-BB%), a 0.50 WHIP, and a 66.1 strike percentage. Being aggressive in the strike zone will be a key to continued success. Beneath these results, he has allowed 37 batted ball events and only two barrels with a 29.7 hard-hit percentage. Despite being scoreless, he has a 2.70 SIERA over his last 18 innings, with a 15.6 percent swinging strike rate and a 68.5 contact percentage. If these gains stick, he could post 15-to-20 more saves this season. Although Ryan Walker has improved in recent appearances, Bob Melvin preferred having him available for the highest-leverage moments before the ninth inning, which will likely be his role moving forward.

(2) Scott’s recent struggles: Overreacting to small sample outcomes can be detrimental. Tanner Scott has allowed multiple runs in three of his last five appearances, including yesterday’s loss and a blown save in Cleveland. He has experienced a spike in his batting average on balls in play (BABIP), combined with extended outings where injuries have decimated his leverage ladder. Blips like this test a fantasy manager’s patience, but when looking at the results in separate splits, there are not any glaring differences:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/WOT9A/1/

Things will normalize soon, especially when his right-handed complements at the backend of games return.

(3) Finnegan’s available again: Although there was not a save situation for the Nationals during yesterday’s shutout win in Seattle, Kyle Finnegan would have been available if there was:

He had been unavailable with shoulder fatigue and has not pitched since May 22.

Here are the leverage events of interest from Wednesday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Boston Red Sox – Entering with a one-run lead at the bottom of the tenth, Justin Slaten allowed Sal Frelick’s lead-off infield single, putting runners at the corners, followed by Isaac Collins’ fielder’s choice groundball and an error, scoring the “place” runner, tying the game. With runners at second and third, Caleb Durbin produced a walk-off sacrifice fly, resulting in Slaten’s fourth loss and second blown save.

  • Aroldis Chapman worked around Christian Yelich’s infield single and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless ninth. He threw 18 pitches (13 strikes – 72.2 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).
  • Hunter Dobbins logged three innings, allowing three hits, two earned runs, and three walks while striking out one during his first blown save.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Justin Slaten | Justin Wilson

Chicago Cubs –Nailing down his fourth save, Daniel Palencia fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts during a one-run win over the Rockies. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%).

He’s converted a save in each of his last four outings, all scoreless, with five strikeouts while allowing one hit.

  • Brad Keller notched his eighth hold, yielding a hit and striking out one in a scoreless appearance.
  • Ryan Brasier worked a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and earning his first hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Drew Pomeranz

Cleveland Guardians – Shutting the door on his 11th save, Emmanuel Clase fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded one strikeout, finishing the come-from-behind win over the Dodgers. He faced the 6-7-8 lineup pocket, throwing 10 pitches (80 Strike%) with three whiffs (30 SwStr%).

  • Matt Festa collected his first win, giving up a hit during a scoreless top of the eighth, ahead of his team’s five-run rally at the bottom of the inning.
  • Tim Herrin issued a walk and recorded two outs, permitting an inherited runner to score during the seventh.
  • Andrew Walters allowed a hit and an earned run while striking out two across a combined inning.
  • Cade Smith gave up a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking one in his 1.1 innings. 

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Detroit Tigers – Taking over with no outs and runners on second and third at the top of the eighth, Tommy Kahnle stranded them by inducing a shallow flyout, recording a strikeout, and then producing an inning-ending groundout. He returned for the ninth and retired the side, securing his seventh save. He retired all six batters, two via strikeout, on 17 pitches (15 strikes – 88.2 Strike%) with three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%).

He has posted a save in two of his last four appearances.

  • John Brebbia gets credit for his second hold, retiring a batter in the seventh, then allowing a runner to reach on catcher’s interference at the top of the eighth, followed by a single, prompting his removal.
  • Tyler Holton tossed a scoreless combined inning, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one for his sixth hold.
  • Brenan Hanifee collected his third win, throwing a combined scoreless frame between the fifth and sixth inning, yielding a hit and striking out one.

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

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

Houston Astros – Securing his 14th save, Josh Hader worked around a one-out walk, recording all three outs via strikeout while preserving a two-run win over The Athletics. He threw 22 pitches (12 strikes – 54.5 Strike%) and generated eight whiffs (36.4 SwStr%).

He is on a five-game scoreless streak and has been scoreless in eight of nine appearances in May, converting all six save chances with a 0.778 WHIP and 15 strikeouts versus three walks (33.4 K-BB%) through nine innings.

  • Bryan Abreu notched his 14th hold with a scoreless eighth, walking and striking out one.
  • Shawn Dubin collected his second win, tossing a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit, and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bryan King

Kansas City Royals – Preserving a one-run margin, Carlos Estévez took over at the top of the eighth with a runner on first and two outs. He notched his 15th save, retiring all four batters, one via strikeout, throwing 16 pitches (75 Strike%) with three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%).

He owns a seven-game scoreless streak and has converted his last 10 save chances since April 24 with 13 strikeouts against one walk (23.5 K-BB%) and a 0.902 WHIP across 13.1 innings.

  • John Schreiber gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout during two-thirds of the eighth for his fifth hold.
  • Angel Zerpa allowed two hits and an earned run across two-thirds combined, getting credit for his second hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber

Los Angeles Dodgers – Called upon at the bottom of the seventh with a runner on and two outs, Tanner Scott produced an inning-ending strikeout. However, things turned when he returned for the eighth, though the box score does not tell the whole story. After allowing consecutive infield singles, including one during which Max Muncy stumbled, Scott issued Daniel Schneemann a walk, loading the bases. He recorded a strikeout against Austin Hedges but an opposite-field single against the shift, scoring the game-tying runs, prompting his removal from the contest. He threw 26 pitches (69.2 Strike%) and generated a season-high nine whiffs (34.6 SwStr%) but was tagged with his first loss and fifth blown save, with four earned runs on his final line. Sometimes, the BAbip overlords are not on your side. In the chart below, the exit velocities are in red, and the xBA for each event are in the last column:

  • Alex Vesia took over with two runners on and one out, giving up a three-run home run by Angel Martínez, scoring both inherited runners.

Hierarchy Remains: Tanner Scott | Ben Casparius | Alex Vesia

Miami Marlins – Preserving a two-run lead, Calvin Faucher retired the side against the top of San Diego’s lineup on eight pitches (62.5 Strike%) without a whiff for his third save.

This represents his first save since April 22. He had allowed seven earned runs across his three previous appearances.

  • Ronny Henriquez issued Luis Arraez a lead-off walk at the bottom of the seventh and gave up Gavin Sheets’ game-tying two-run home run, resulting in his second blown save. Henriquez returned for the eighth, retiring the side and collecting his third win. He finished his two innings with a hit, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out three, throwing 29 pitches (16 strikes – 55.2 Strike%) with three whiffs.
  • Anthony Bender worked a clean sixth.
  • Jesús Tinoco gave up a hit during a scoreless fifth.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Milwaukee Brewers – For a second straight day, the Brewers won via walk-off; this time, it benefited Tyler Alexander, collecting his third win despite giving up Trevor Story’s lead-off single, followed by a fielder’s choice groundout, scoring the “place” runner.

  • Jared Koenig navigated around a hit and two walks with an inning-ending strikeout of Nick Sogard, keeping the game tied during the ninth.
  • Abner Uribe fired a scoreless eighth, hitting a batter and striking out two on 18 pitches (55.6 Strike%) with one whiff. He has been scoreless through 13 of 14 appearances this month, with 20 strikeouts against six walks (25.9 K-BB%) and a 1.095 WHIP in 13.2 innings.
  • Nick Mears gave up Wilyer Abreu’s solo home run and recorded two strikeouts over two innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

New York Yankees – Filling in capably while letting his teammates get extra rest, Mark Leiter Jr. worked a scoreless top of the ninth, issuing a walk and striking out two for his second save, preserving a combined shutout of the Angels and converting his second save. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

  • Tim Hill stranded a runner and retired his only batter at the bottom of the eighth, securing his fourth hold.
  • Ian Hamilton logged 1.2 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out two for his second hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Luke Weaver | Devin Williams | Jonathan Loáisiga

St. Louis Cardinals – Working around a lead-off single and a two-out hit, Ryan Helsley secured his 12th save with a game-ending groundout by Ryan O’Hearn. Helsley threw 16 pitches (93.8 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in eight of his ten appearances in May with 11 strikeouts versus three walks (17.7 K-BB%) and a 1.40 WHIP across ten innings while converting all eight save opportunities.

  • JoJo Romero retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the bottom of the eighth for his ninth hold.
  • Phil Maton tossed a clean seventh, striking out two en route to his tenth hold.
  • John King collected his second win after a clean seventh with two strikeouts.
  • Kyle Leahy gave up a hit and two walks while striking out one in a scoreless fifth. 

Updated Hierarchy: Ryan Helsley | Phil Maton | JoJo Romero

Toronto Blue Jays – Capping his team’s rally at the top of the ninth and a combined shutout, Jeff Hoffman retired the side and recorded one strikeout while posting his 12th save. He threw 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%) against Texas’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket.

He has finished his last two save opportunities with eyes on better results in June.

  • Brendon Little collected his third win, retiring both batters at the bottom of the eighth via strikeout.
  • Braydon Fisher worked 1.1 scoreless innings, walking one and striking out two. 

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Yariel Rodríguez | Chad Green

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: Appearing during a lopsided loss, Shelby Miller retired the side and recorded a strikeout against the Pirates’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket, throwing 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) with four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%). He had not pitched since May 20.
  • Chicago White Sox: In order of appearance, Brandon Eisert entered at the bottom of the fourth and stranded his only inherited runner. He collected his second win, retiring all four batters, one via strikeout against the Mets. Mike Vasil logged three scoreless frames, yielding two hits and a walk while striking out five for his first hold.
  • Colorado Rockies: Back from the injured list, Victor Vodnik tossed a scoreless bottom of the eighth despite issuing a walk. He threw 18 pitches (50 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%). 
  • Los Angeles Angels: Making his first appearance since 2023, Robert Stephenson fired a clean top of the sixth and recorded two strikeouts against the Yankees’ 6-7-8 lineup pocket, throwing 12 pitches (75 Strike%) with six whiffs (50 SwStr%). 
  • San Diego Padres: With a runner on third and one out, Jason Adam took over at the top of the seventh against the Marlins. He uncorked a wild pitch, scoring the inherited runner and breaking the tie, allowing three consecutive hits without a run during two-thirds of an inning. He returned for the eighth and hit a batter, then a hitter reached on a fielder’s choice before being removed. Adam was tagged with his first loss, yielding three hits and two unearned runs.
  • Texas Rangers: Blinking first during a scoreless tie, Jacob Webb allowed two hits at the top of the ninth, including Bo Bichette’s pinch-hit two-run home run, resulting in his third loss. Robert Garcia faced Toronto’s 2-3-4-5 hitters at the top of the eighth, giving up a hit and striking out two on 17 pitches (11 strikes – 64.7 Strike%) and generating five whiffs (29.4 SwStr%).
  • The Athletics: During the bottom of the seventh, Justin Sterner suffered his first loss and third blown save. He allowed four hits, including Zach Dezenzo’s solo home run, three earned runs, and a walk while recording two outs.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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Statistical Credits:

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Monkey Bytes | May 28

Tuesday’s slate was beneficial to the save streamers, with three vulture recommendations coming through, though one allowed two earned runs. Relievers recorded five wins and nine saves last night while suffering seven losses. Here is the condensed view of Tuesday’s saves:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BB
Ryan Helsley111384.623.12:0
Jhoan Durán92152.49.51:1
Jordan Romano71172.79.11:0
Will Vest72161.99.51:0
David Bednar61471.414.32:0
Devin Williams61957.95.30:0
Robert Garcia31573.3202:0
Reed Garrett22365.230.43:1
Jeremiah Estrada12470.820.82:0

For the save streamers, there is a light forecast for the next two days:

Vulture Save Options for May 28

  • Tommy Kahnle (DET): Vest has appeared in consecutive contests and three of the last four games. 
  • Griffin Jax (MIN): Durán has worked in three of the previous four days while tossing 62 pitches. 
  • Ronny Henriquez (MIA): I’m hoping he gets the next save chance while Clayton McCullough plays reliever roulette. 

Vulture Save Stashes for May 29

  • Tanner Banks (PHI): If Romano, Strahm, and Kerkering pitch tonight, it’s consecutive appearances for the Phillies’ high-leverage triumvirate. 

Three Takeaways

(1) D-Will wilts in the ninth: Incapable of preserving the combined shutout, Devin Williams did record his fifth save, the first since April 17, despite allowing three hits, including Yoan Moncada’s solo home run at the bottom of the ninth, resulting in two earned runs. First, his illustrator:

And his results:

This outing snapped his eight-game scoreless streak. It seemed like he was building momentum for an eventual return into a save share, but his ninth-inning ERA sits at 12.41 through 8.2 innings with a paltry 1.9 K-BB% and an inflated 2.413 WHIP. In the eighth, he’s posted a 0.875 WHIP with a 3.38 ERA and 35.5 K-BB%. As a result, Luke Weaver remains atop the hierarchy:

Hierarchy Remains: Luke Weaver | Devin Williams | Jonathan Loáisiga

(2) Garcia taking over in Texas: Completing a combined shutout against Toronto, Robert Garcia nailed down his third save with a clean top of the ninth while striking out two. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%) facing the 9-1-2 lineup pocket.

This snapped a three-game streak of allowing at least a run, and he has converted his last two save opportunities. He has posted a 2.35 ERA with a 1.00 WHIP through 27 games, and his ratio predictors are primarily in line (3.56 SIERA and 3.14 xERA). Garcia could generate more whiffs if he threw more sliders. Fantasy managers will monitor his results against right-handed hitters and how Texas handles the roster when Jon Gray returns. For now, it appears the southpaw has taken over as Bruce Bochy’s preferred option for save chances.

(3) Jax back on track: Fantasy baseball remains a marathon, not a sprint. Over a month ago, Griffin Jax was struggling. However, he has bounced back with aplomb, allowing two hits and one walk during his last six appearances while facing 21 batters (0.50 WHIP and a 57.1 K-BB%). He fired a clean bottom of the eighth last night, striking out the side on 14 pitches (63.4 Strike%) while generating four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%):

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Tuesday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Boston Red Sox – Tasked with a tied game at the bottom of the tenth, Liam Hendriks suffered his second loss, issuing a walk and allowing two hits, including Christian Yelich’s walk-off grand slam. He has given up multiple runs in three of his last five appearances.

Aroldis Chapman could not close out a combined shutout at the bottom of the ninth. He gave up Yelich’s lead-off double, issued a walk, and, with one out, the game-tying run on Sal Frelick’s single before recording the last two outs of the inning. Chapman was tagged with his first blown save, yielding two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one. He threw 19 pitches (12 strikes – 63.2 Strike%) and only induced two whiffs (10.5 SwStr%).

  • Justin Slaten notched his fourth hold, tossing 1.1 scoreless frames, walking, and striking out one.
  • Justin Wilson worked 1.1 clean innings and recorded a strikeout for his fifth hold.

Adjusted Hierarchy: Aroldis Chapman | Justin Slaten | Justin Wilson

Detroit Tigers – Working into and then out of trouble, Will Vest recorded his seventh save, although he could not complete the combined shutout. He allowed a lead-off single by Heliot Ramos, followed by Wilmer Flores’ RBI double, then bore down retiring the next three batters, including a game-ending strikeout of Willy Adames. Vest threw 21 pitches (13 strikes – 61.9 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (9.5 SwStr%).

This snapped his six-game scoreless streak, but he has converted seven of nine save chances while producing a 1.04 WHIP and 28 strikeouts versus nine walks (18.2 K-BB%) through 26 innings.

  • Chase Lee logged two scoreless frames, scattering two hits and striking out one for his first hold.

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

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

Minnesota Twins – Sealing a two-run win in Tampa Bay, Jhoan Durán worked around a one-out walk by retiring the next two batters for a scoreless ninth. He also recorded one strikeout, throwing 21 pitches (11 strikes – 52.4 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (9.5 SwStr%).

Through 13 appearances in May, he has converted seven of eight save chances with 18 strikeouts against five walks (23.2 K-BB%) and a 1.31 WHIP in 13 innings.

  • Griffin Jax fired a clean bottom of the eighth, striking out the side on 14 pitches (9 strikes – 64.3 Strike%) with four whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). He’s on a six-game scoreless streak and recorded multiple strikeouts in five (13:1 K:BB).
  • Louis Varland allowed a hit and an earned run in the seventh, getting credit for his ninth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Louis Varland

New York Mets – Summoned at the top of the eighth with a runner and one out, Reed Garrett retired both batters via strikeout. He returned for the ninth and worked around a one-out walk for his second save across 1.2 scoreless frames. He finished with three strikeouts while throwing 23 pitches (15 strikes – 65.2 Strike%) and generated seven whiffs (30.4 SwStr%).

He’s notched a save in two of the last three days.

  • José Castillo was credited with his first hold, allowing a hit and striking out one during two-thirds scoreless combined innings.
  • José Buttó gave up three hits and two earned runs in his combined inning of relief, getting credit for his second hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Reed Garrett | Ryne Stanek

Philadelphia Phillies – Preserving the combined shutout and recording his seventh save, Jordan Romano retired the side while striking out one against Atlanta’s 8-9-1 lineup pocket. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff (9.1 SwStr%).

Since April 29, he has been scoreless in ten of 11 appearances while converting six saves and two holds with 16 strikeouts versus two walks and a 0.748 WHIP through 10.2 innings.

  • Matt Strahm notched his eighth hold, walking and striking out one during a scoreless eighth.
  • Orion Kerkering worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one for his ninth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jordan Romano | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

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

Pittsburgh Pirates – Locking down his sixth save, David Bednar fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts while facing Arizona’s 1-2-3 lineup pocket. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).

He has converted a save in three of his last four appearances since May 20.

  • Dennis Santana worked a clean bottom of the eighth against the 7-8-9 lineup pocket, striking out two on 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) with two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).
  • Joey Wentz collected his second win, logging 3.2 innings, giving up three hits and an earned run while striking out four. He did allow all three inherited runners to score upon entry at the bottom of the fourth, then settled in.

Hierarchy Remains: *David Bednar | *Dennis Santana | Caleb Ferguson

*= match-up-based approach

San Diego Padres – Taking over at the top of the eighth, Jeremiah Estrada stranded a runner on an inning-ending lineout, then returned for a scoreless ninth, yielding a one-out single by Agustín Ramírez, by retiring the next two batters, including Kyle Stowers on a game-ending strikeout for his first save. Estrada threw 24 pitches (17 strikes – 70.8 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (20.8 SwStr%).

  • Yuki Matui notched his second hold, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one during a scoreless combined inning.
  • Sean Reynolds stranded a runner at the top of the sixth and logged 1.1 scoreless frames, scattering two hits while securing his first hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

St. Louis Cardinals – Securing his 11th save, Ryan Helsley allowed a two-out single during a scoreless bottom of the ninth in Baltimore. He recorded two strikeouts while throwing 13 pitches (11 strikes – 84.6 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in seven of his last eight games, posting a win while converting all seven save chances with 11 strikeouts versus three walks (22.8 K-BB%) and a 1.375 WHIP through eight innings.

  • Phil Maton tossed a clean eighth and recorded a strikeout for his ninth hold.
  • Steven Matz collected his third win, logging 1.1 scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Ryan Helsley | Kyle Leahy | Phil Maton

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: Things went sideways quickly at the top of the eighth for Kevin Ginkel, resulting in four hits, five earned runs, and a walk while striking out one over one-third of the inning during his third loss. Jalen Beeks could not stem the tide, letting his only inherited runner score, giving up a hit, two runs (one earned) on Bryan Reynolds’ three-run home run. 
  • Baltimore Orioles: Bryan Baker entered at the top of the eighth and gave up three hits, including one home run and a walk, resulting in three earned runs and his first loss.
  • Chicago Cubs: Entering at the top of the tenth, Chris Flexen stranded the “place” runner but let him score on a single and a fielder’s choice groundout in the 11th. However, he collected his third win following his teammates’ two-run rally at the bottom of the frame. He finished with a hit and an unearned run while striking out one during his two innings.
  • Colorado Rockies: Extended for a second inning, Tyler Kinley suffered his second loss, allowing a stolen base by the “place” runner (Pete Crow-Armstrong), followed by Michael Busch’s game-tying RBI, issued Nico Hoerner a walk, and the walk-off RBI single by Matt Shaw at the bottom of the 11th. Zach Agnos tossed a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded a strikeout on eight pitches (75 Strike%) with one whiff (12.5 SwStr%).
  • Kansas City Royals:  Called upon at the top of the fifth during a bases-loaded situation, and one out, Taylor Clarke stranded all three. However, he suffered his first loss, giving up Elly De La Cruz’s go-ahead solo home run. Clarke finished his 2.2 innings with three strikeouts and only one hit.
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: In order of appearance, Jack Dreyer took over at the bottom of the sixth and retired all four batters, securing his fourth hold. Ben Casparius fired 1.2 clean frames and recorded three strikeouts for his sixth hold. He threw 20 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (15 SwStr%). Across his last three relief outings, he has racked up ten strikeouts against one walk (56.2 K-BB%) in five innings.
  • Miami Marlins: Called upon at the bottom of the fourth, Cade Gibson suffered his third loss, allowing a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one over 1.1 innings. Anthony Bender let his only inherited runner score, yielding consecutive singles at the bottom of the fifth, including Luis Arraez’s RBI one before retiring Manny Machado, ending the inning.
  • Milwaukee Brewers: After stranding two runners and retiring both batters faced, one via strikeout, at the top of the tenth, Rob Zastryzny collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning.
  • San Francisco Giants: Appearing during a loss, Tristan Beck worked two clean frames and recorded three strikeouts on 23 pitches (15 strikes – 65.2 Strike%) with four whiffs (17.4 SwStr%).
  • Tampa Bay Rays: In an eventual loss, Eric Orze fired a clean top of the ninth, striking out the side on 14 pitches (85.7 Strike%) with three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). 
  • Toronto Blue Jays: Taking over a tied game at the bottom of the eighth, Chad Green suffered his first loss, allowing two hits, two runs (one earned), and a walk while striking out one. Yariel Rodríguez logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out one. He owns a nine-game scoreless streak with 14 strikeouts against one walk (30.9 K-BB%) through 13 innings.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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

Premium subscribers can still use this link for daily, ad-free content or submit a $25 payment via Venmo to @gjewett9.

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

Statistical Credits:

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Monkey Bytes | May 27

Monday’s 12-game slate resulted in relievers recording three wins and five saves while suffering two losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BB
Jeff Hoffman111369.223.10:0
Trevor Megill103455.98.80:3
Félix Bautista81070302:0
Will Vest61656.36.31:0
Daniel Palencia31361.57.72:0

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for May 27

  • Devin Williams (NYY): Weaver has pitched in consecutive games and thrown 46 pitches. 
  • Reed Garrett (NYM): Díaz has pitched in three of the previous four days. 
  • Jeremiah Estrada (SD): Suarez, Adam, and Morejon pitched in the last two games.
  • Brad Keller (CHC): Palencia and Pomeranz have worked in back-to-back contests. 
  • Jared Koenig (MIL): Megill and Uribe need a day off. Also, those seeking multiple innings can target Aaron Ashby. 

Vulture Save Stashes for May 28

  • Ben Casparius (LAD): If Scott pitches tonight, it will be consecutive games. 
  • Andrew Kittredge (BAL): If Bautista pitches in today’s contest, it will be back-to-back appearances. 

Three Takeaways

(1) Overbrewed in Milwaukee: Pitching for the sixth time in nine days, Trevor Megill hung on for his tenth save during a traffic-infused outing against the Red Sox. It began with a one-out walk, and with two outs, he issued a second walk, followed by Jarren Duran’s RBI single. Megill loaded the bases with an intentional walk to Rafael Devers before inducing a game-ending flyout, preserving the one-run win. He threw 34 pitches (19 strikes – 55.9 Strike%) and only produced three whiffs (8.8 SwStr%).

This marks his second appearance with three walks this season, though one was intentional, and he has converted all seven save chances in May. Abner Uribe let his only inherited runner on Carlos Narvaez’s single, then retired the next two batters, including an inning-ending double play groundout for his 14th hold. DL Hall collected his first win, logging 2.1 innings, giving up two hits, an earned run, and two walks while striking out one.

Outings like this are not always the reliever’s fault. Here are the usage patterns for the leverage relievers since May 18:

Here are some notes of interest for three relievers:

  • Trevor Megill: He has thrown 101 pitches over his last six outings since May 18 and produced a 5:4 K:BB. Despite a 1.25 WHIP, he converted all five save chances. He should get the next two days off.
  • Abner Uribe: He is tied for the most appearances among all MLB relievers with 27 in his team’s first 51 games. He has also logged six outings since May 18, throwing 112 pitches with 11 strikeouts against three walks and a 1-1 record, one save, and three holds.
  • Jared Koenig: He has appeared in 26 of his team’s first 51 games and has only thrown 72 pitches since May 18 with four strikeouts against one walk.

Curt Hogg intimated the team would use Aaron Ashby and DL Hall for multiple-inning outings to provide the high-leverage triumvirate more rest in this column for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinal.

(2) Pagán and regression: Emilio Pagán allowed Vinnie Pasquantino’s lead-off single and hit Salvador Perez with a pitch before recording an out in a non-save appearance. However, he issued a one-out walk, loading the bases, before striking out Drew Waters, balked in a run, then induced a game-ending flyout by Michael Massey, closing a three-run win. He threw 22 pitches (45.5 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (9.1 SwStr%).

The good news is that he has converted his last six save chances. However, he has allowed at least a run in five of ten games in May with a 1.495 WHIP, striking out 15 versus five walks (20.4 K-BB%) across 10.2 innings. This small sample of regression may reverse. Through 25 games, he has a 3.96 ERA with a 3.04 SIERA and 3.37 xERA. He has also incurred some heavy usage patterns, which should be monitored, but he has emerged as Terry Francona’s closer this season.

(3) Palencia shoves again: If one believes possession is nine-tenths of the law, the closer situation in Chicago may be settled in the interim. Shutting the door on his third save, Daniel Palencia fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts. He threw 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff (7.7 SwStr%).

He’s converted a save in his last three appearances and been scoreless in nine of ten games this month with a 0.90 WHIP while striking out 12 against three walks (23.1 K-BB%) across ten innings. As great as he has been, we cannot ignore his 3.30 SIERA and 3.37 xERA or his 45.3 hard-hit percentage against. His 86.1 Z-contact (in the strike zone) also sits above the league average. He has been terrific, and this can parlay into him retaining the role going forward, with some expected migration toward the mean.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Monday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Baltimore Orioles – Nailing down his eighth save, Félix Bautista finished a three-run win over the Cardinals with a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts while facing the 4-5-6 lineup pocket. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (30 SwStr%).

After a rough patch, he has been scoreless in his last two outings but owns a 1.257 WHIP with 19 strikeouts against 11 walks (11.4 K-BB%) across 16.2 innings.

  • Yennier Cano notched his ninth hold with a clean eighth, striking out one.
  • Seranthony Domínguez fired a clean seventh and struck out two, securing his third hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Félix Bautista | Andrew Kittredge | Yennier Cano

Chicago White Sox – Entering a tied game at the bottom of the eighth with a runner on and one out, Steven Wilson issued Pete Alonso an intentional walk, hit Starling Marte with a pitch, and induced an inning-ending lineout by Brett Baty. Returning for the ninth, Wilson gave up a lead-off double, handed out another intentional walk (Jeff McNeil), allowed a single, then a walk-off Francisco Lindor sacrifice fly, resulting in his first loss. Chicago is now 3-13 (.231) in one-run games this season, less than optimal. For a team that has to win on the margins, this bullpen has not performed well during high-leverage situations.

  • Cam Booser allowed two hits, an earned run, and recorded a strikeout in two-thirds of the eighth, getting tagged with his second blown save.
  • Brandon Eisert notched his third hold, walking and striking out one in a scoreless seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: *Cam Booser | *Jordan Leasure | *Steven Wilson

*= closer-by-committee

Detroit Tigers – Sealing a two-run win, Will Vest tossed a scoreless top of the ninth against the Giants’ 4-5-6-7 hitters, working around a lead-off single by retiring the next three batters, one via strikeout for his sixth save. He threw 16 pitches (9 strikes – 56.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff (6.3 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in nine out of ten appearances this month with 13 strikeouts versus four walks (18.8 K-BB%) through 12 innings.

  • Tommy Kahnle notched his sixth hold, retiring the side at the top of the eighth.
  • Beau Brieske tossed a scoreless seventh despite issuing a walk.
  • Brenan Hanifee let one of two inherited runners score, allowing a hit during two-thirds of the sixth.
  • Tyler Holton was credited with his fifth hold, giving up two hits and an earned run while recording one out in the sixth.

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

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

Miami Marlins – Entering at the bottom of the 11th, Cade Gibson suffered his second loss. After retiring Gavin Sheets on a groundout, moving the “place” runner to third, he intentionally walked Xander Bogaerts and threw a wild pitch, scoring the game-winning run.

  • Tyler Phillips logged two scoreless frames while allowing a walk.
  • Calvin Faucher gave up Manny Machado’s game-tying solo home run at the bottom of the eighth, getting tagged with his third blown save.
  • Jesús Tinoco notched his fourth hold, tossing 1.1 scoreless innings while giving up a hit and stranding a runner at the bottom of the sixth.

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

*= closer-by-committee

New York Mets – Taking over a tied contest at the top of the ninth, Edwin Díaz worked around a two-out walk with an inning-ending strikeout. He collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 11 pitches (45.5 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%).

Díaz extended his scoreless streak to 11 games since April 26, during which he has converted all five save chances with a .708 WHIP and 14 strikeouts versus five walks (21.4 K-BB) through 11.1 innings.

  • José Castillo stranded a runner, issuing a walk and striking out at the top of the eighth.
  • Huascar Brazobán logged 1.1 scoreless frames, walking and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Reed Garrett | Ryne Stanek

New York Yankees – Despite his team leading by four, Luke Weaver pitched the bottom of the ninth against the Angels, issuing a one-out walk, allowing a stolen base with two outs and a single putting runners at the corners, but induced a game-ending pop-out by Jo Adell. Weaver finished with a hit and a walk during a scoreless appearance, throwing 25 pitches (60 Strike%) and producing two whiffs (8 SwStr%). After retiring all 16 batters between his outings from May 13 through 22 while recording seven strikeouts, he has given up four hits, an earned run, and one walk in his last two.

  • Mark Leiter Jr. stranded a runner despite allowing a hit and recorded a strikeout in two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Yerry De Los Santos logged 1.1 scoreless, yielding a hit and striking out three. 

Hierarchy Remains: Luke Weaver | Devin Williams | Jonathan Loásiga

San Diego Padres – Collecting his second win, Adrian Morejon retired the side and recorded a strikeout at the top of the 11th against the Marlins’ 2-3-4 hitters ahead of his team’s walk-off rally.

  • Jason Adam fired a clean tenth, striking out one on 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with three whiffs (20 SwStr%).
  • Robert Suarez preserved a tie game, working a scoreless ninth. He allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout while throwing 12 pitches (75 Strike%) with two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He has posted a 0.87 WHIP with 23 strikeouts through 23 innings while converting 17 of 19 save chances. 

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

Tampa Bay Rays – Although he warmed up for a potential save, Mason Montgomery settled for a scoreless top of the ninth, securing a five-run win after his teammates plated four runs at the bottom of the eighth. He allowed a two-out single and recorded a strikeout on 12 pitches (83.3 Strike%) with one whiff.

  • Manuel Rodríguez notched his eighth hold, retiring the side against the Twins’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket.
  • Garrett Cleavinger was credited with his seventh hold despite giving up Carlos Correa’s home run, scoring an inherited runner, and putting an earned run on his ledger during two-thirds of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Garrett Cleavinger

Toronto Blue Jays – Preserving a one-run win in Texas, Jeff Hoffman retired the side while facing the 3-4-5 lineup pocket on 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%).

It’s been a tumultuous May for the closer. He has allowed multiple runs in four of his 10 appearances, resulting in a 1-2 record while converting five of eight save opportunities. Hope lies in his 67.5 strike percentage and 14.4 percent swinging strike rate of 160 pitches this month and not allowing four home runs. He has been scoreless in three of his last four games. I’m hoping he bounces back toward his early-season dominance.

Updated Hierarchy: Jeff Hoffman | Yariel Rodríguez | Chad Green

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: With the bases loaded and no outs at the top of the eighth, Torey Lovullo called upon Justin Martinez to face Bryan Reynolds. After getting ahead, Martinez nibbled but produced a strikeout on a 3-2 count, then retired the next two batters, preserving the combined shutout while securing his fourth hold. He threw 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff.
  • Colorado Rockies: Appearing during a two-run loss, Zach Agnos retired the Cubs’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket on five pitches (60 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s been scoreless in his last four appearances.
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: Finishing a five-run win, Luis García worked around a hit for a scoreless bottom of the ninth in Cleveland. Tanner Scott faced the 2-3-4-5 hitters, giving up José Ramírez’s one-out double and recording a strikeout in a scoreless eighth. He threw 24 pitches (19 strikes – 79.2 Strike%) with three whiffs (12.5 SwStr%).

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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

Premium subscribers can still use this link for daily, ad-free content or submit a $25 payment via Venmo to @gjewett9.

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

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BrooksBaseball.net

Closer Monkey Updated Rankings | 5.26.2025

Recognizing that ranking relievers can become outdated within hours, Closer Monkey’s updated rankings incorporate in-season results with rest-of-season potential, yielding a number often worth debating. Each week, we are providing saves, SOLDS, and holds rankings.

Relievers on the Rise

  • Trevor Megill (MIL): He has been scoreless in ten of his last 11 appearances and converted all six save chances with 11 strikeouts against four walks (17.5 K-BB%) with a 1.00 WHIP across ten innings.
  • Daniel Palencia (CHC): He’s converted his last two save chances and been scoreless in eight of his nine appearances in May with a 1.00 WHIP and ten strikeouts versus three walks (19.5 K-BB%) over nine innings.

What to Watch For (W2W4)

  • Texas Rangers: Are Robert Garcia and Shawn Armstrong in a match-up-based situation, or which reliever replaces Luke Jackson as the closer?
  • Miami Marlins: Can Ronny Henriquez distance himself as the preferred save share, or was his save on Sunday a one-act play?
  • New York Yankees: Does Luke Weaver remain the closer?

Updated Top 40 Closers

**Updated on May 29 after the Camilo Doval news**

RankRelievers
1Andrés Muñoz
2Josh Hader
3Edwin Díaz
4Robert Suarez
5Emmanuel Clase
6Mason Miller
7Tanner Scott
8Jhoan Durán
9Aroldis Chapman
10Jordan Romano
11Camilo Doval
12Trevor Megill
13Luke Weaver
14Ryan Helsley
15Emilio Pagán
16Carlos Estévez
17Will Vest
18Pete Fairbanks
19Jeff Hoffman
20Kenley Jansen
21Félix Bautista
22Raisel Iglesias
23Daniel Palencia
24David Bednar
25Robert Garcia
26Kyle Finnegan
27Shelby Miller
28Justin Martinez
29Tommy Kahnle
30Dennis Santana
31Devin Williams
32Jason Adam
33Cade Smith
34Zach Agnos
35Orion Kerkering
36Lucas Erceg
37Calvin Faucher
38Cam Booser
39Matt Strahm
40Ronny Henriquez

Save Stashes

  • Jorge López (WSH) – in case Kyle Finnegan’s shoulder issue lingers.
  • Abner Uribe (MIL)
  • Grant Taylor (CHW)
  • A.J. Puk (ARI)
  • Yariel Rodríguez (TOR)

Updated Top 75 for SOLDS

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

Relievers on the Rise

  • Randy Rodríguez (SF): He’s been scoreless in 21 of 22 appearances this season. He recorded two wins, four holds, a 0.60 WHIP, and 16 strikeouts against three walks (37.1 K-BB%) through ten scoreless frames in May.
  • Yariel Rodríguez (TOR): He owns an eight-game scoreless streak, during which he has posted a 0.455 WHIP with 13 strikeouts against one walk (33.3 K-BB percentage), a 62.5 strike percentage, and a 16.8 percent swinging strike rate across 11 innings. With Yimi García on the injured list, it’s time the Blue Jays give him a larger leverage share.
  • Ronny Henriquez (MIA): He has been scoreless through 11 games in May with a 0.818 WHIP and 17 strikeouts against three walks (31.8 K-BB%) across 11 innings. He’s also posted a 67.8 strike percentage and a 24.6 percent swinging strike rate in this sample.

Top 50 for Holds

RankReliever
1Jason Adam
2Cade Smith
3Lucas Erceg
4Tyler Rogers
5Abner Uribe
6Bryan King
7Brendon Little
8Griffin Jax
9Kyle Leahy
10Jeremiah Estrada
11Bryan Abreu
12Devin Williams
13Camilo Doval
14Hunter Gaddis
15Robert Garcia
16Louis Varland
17Randy Rodríguez
18Ben Casparius
19Alex Vesia
20Tommy Kahnle
21Orion Kerkering
22Garrett Cleavinger
23Mark Leiter Jr.
24Reed Garrett
25Matt Strahm
26Dylan Lee
27Edwin Uceta
28Andrew Kittredge
29Drew Pomeranz
30John Schreiber
31Yennier Cano
32Mason Montgomery
33Daysbel Hernández
34Jonathan Loáisiga
35Tim Herrin
36Chad Green
37Brad Keller
38Jose A. Ferrer
39Shawn Armstrong
40Justin Slaten
41Jared Koenig
42Carlos Vargas
43Tyler Holton
44Ronny Henriquez
45Tony Santillan
46Dennis Santana
47Phil Maton
48Héctor Neris
49Ryan Zeferjahn
50Greg Weissert

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

Statistical Credits:

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Monkey Bytes | May 26

On this Memorial Day, we pay tribute to those who have fallen and honor them with our gratitude. Sunday’s slate featured nine wins by relievers and 11 saves while suffering seven losses. Three recorded their first save, including one career first. Here are the saves in condensed form:

RelieverSave #PitchesStrike%SwStr%K:BB
Robert Suarez17977.800:0
Mason Miller121266.733.31:0
Ryan Walker101764.711.81:0
Trevor Megill91866.727.82:0
Luke Weaver82176.223.80:0
Robert Garcia21181.818.21:0
Phil Maton22075102:0
Daniel Palencia22185.728.61:0
Taylor Clarke11457.17.10:1
Reed Garrett11573.333.32:0
Ronny Henriquez11090602:0

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for May 26

  • Griffin Jax (MIN): Durán has pitched in consecutive contests. 
  • Shawn Armstrong (TEX): He will be tasked with the top of the Blue Jays lineup, if they line up for the ninth, he will get the call. 
  • Calvin Faucher (MIA): Henriquez has worked in back-to-back games. 

Vulture Save Stashes for May 27

  • Camilo Doval (SF): If Walker pitches today, it will be consecutive outings. 
  • Lucas Erceg (KC): Received a much-needed day off on Sunday, and if Estévez pitches today, it’s back-to-back appearances. 
  • Ryan Pressly (CHC): He’s primarily worked in lower leverage situations recently, but if Palencia pitches today, he will have worked in consecutive games.

Three Takeaways

(1) Texas two-step in high-leverage: For a second consecutive time, Luke Jackson took over during the sixth inning, not the usage pattern of a closer. He let his only inherited runner score on a sacrifice fly, but it’s his 1.60 WHIP with a 4.61 SIERA and 5.05 xERA, which may be removing him from save chances. It’s tough to get the last three outs of a game with a 9.5 percent swinging strike rate and 78.7 contact percentage. Shawn Armstrong collected his second win, stranding a runner at the bottom of the seventh and retiring all four batters, three via strikeout on 20 pitches (65 Strike%) with five whiffs (25 SwStr%).

Finishing his team’s comeback rally, Robert Garcia held on for his second save. He allowed Edgar Quero’s lead-off double and recorded a strikeout, followed by Michael A. Taylor’s RBI double. Garcia picked Taylor off on a stolen base attempt and then induced a game-ending flyout, preserving the one-run win. He threw 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He has allowed an earned run in his last three appearances but will benefit from a fantasy perspective if he’s in the mix for future save opportunities. This usage pattern indicates the Rangers’ have shifted into a match-up-based bullpen with shared saves.

Updated Hierarchy: *Robert Garcia | *Shawn Armstrong | Luke Jackson

*= closer-by-committee with a match-up-based approach

(2) Palencia stating his case: Taking over against the Reds’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket, Daniel Palencia navigated around Elly De La Cruz’s lead-off single by retiring the next three batters, one via strikeout, while securing his second save. He threw 21 pitches (85.7 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (28.6 SwStr%).

He’s converted his last two save chances and been scoreless in eight of his nine appearances in May with a 1.00 WHIP and ten strikeouts versus three walks (19.5 K-BB%) over nine innings. He has slightly increased his swinging strike rate to 12 percent this month with a 77.4 percent contact rate. As Porter Hodge rehabs his oblique strain, Palencia has emerged as a trusted ninth-inning option for Craig Counsell, how roles evolve through June will be intriguing.

Hierarchy remains: Daniel Palencia | Brad Keller | Drew Pomeranz

(3) Ronny strikes out the side: Miami has produced nine saves this year, and on Sunday, a fifth reliever recorded one, Ronny Henriquez. Before this appearance, he had entered games in the fourth inning once, the fifth inning one time, the sixth inning five times, and the seventh once across ten games in May. However, during his first career saves, he faced the Angels’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket, throwing ten pitches (90 Strike%) with six whiffs (60 SwStr%) while striking out the side:

He has been scoreless through 11 games in May with a 0.818 WHIP and 17 strikeouts against three walks (31.8 K-BB%) across 11 innings. Pretty good. He’s also posted a 67.8 strike percentage and a 24.6 percent swinging strike rate in this sample. First-year manager Clayton McCullough was forthright this spring, saying he would not rely on a traditional closer approach during save situations, but Henriquez may earn a larger leverage share moving forward if he’s allowed. His slider could be a late-inning impact pitch. For now:

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

*= closer-by-committee

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Sunday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Chicago White Sox – Taking over with a one-run lead at the top of the ninth, Jordan Leasure hit Josh Jung with a pitch leading off the inning, followed by Jake Burger’s double, putting runners in scoring position. After recording a strikeout, the game-tying run scored on a fielding error, then Adolis García doubled, driving in two runs, resulting in Leasure’s fourth loss and third blown save.

  • Cam Booser fired a clean eighth, striking out two for his fourth hold.
  • Miguel Castro worked a scoreless seventh, walking and striking out one, securing his first hold.

Hierarchy Remains: *Cam Booser | *Jordan Leasure | *Steven Wilson

*= closer-by-committee

Houston Astros – Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Bryan King collected his third win after logging 1.1 scoreless innings, allowing a hit and striking out two. He stranded two runners at the top of the eighth and worked a scoreless ninth, throwing 20 pitches (70 Strike%) with three whiffs (15 SwStr%).

  • Kaleb Ort tossed a scoreless combined inning, giving up two hits and striking out two.
  • Shawn Dubin tossed 1.2 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bryan King

Kansas City Royals – Summoned at the bottom of the tenth with a one-run lead, Taylor Clarke stranded the “place” runner despite issuing a walk and recorded his first save with a scoreless appearance. He threw 14 pitches (8 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and induced one whiff while facing the Twins’ 4-5–6-7 hitters.

Carlos Estévez collected his second win, logging 1.1 clean frames and striking out two. He stranded a runner at the bottom of the eighth and threw 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) with one whiff in his outing.

He’s on a modest six-game scoreless streak and has posted a 1.13 WHIP with 21 strikeouts against 10 walks (11.5 K-BB%) over 23 innings.

Updated Hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | John Schreiber

Milwaukee Brewers – Preserving a come-from-behind rally, Trevor Megill worked around a two-out infield single with a game-ending groundout, sealing his ninth save. He recorded two strikeouts while throwing 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (27.8 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in ten of his last 11 appearances and converted all six save chances with 11 strikeouts against four walks (17.5 K-BB%) with a 1.00 WHIP across ten innings.

  • Abner Uribe notched his 13th hold, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out two in a scoreless eighth.
  • Jared Koenig was awarded his third win despite giving up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one during his 1.2 innings.
  • Nick Mears suffered his fourth blown save, allowing three hits and two earned runs over one-third of the sixth.

Updated Hierarchy: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

New York Mets – Securing his first save, Reed Garrett navigated around a one-out Max Muncy single for a scoreless ninth and recorded two strikeouts. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (33.3 SwStr%) while preserving a two-run win over the Dodgers.

  • Max Kranick notched his fourth hold, logging two scoreless frames.
  • Ryne Stanek stranded a runner and retired both batters in the sixth, securing his fourth hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | Reed Garrett | Ryne Stanek

New York Yankees – Surviving traffic in Coors, Luke Weaver held on for his eighth save despite giving up three hits, including Mickey Moniak’s solo home run during the bottom of the ninth, preserving a one-run victory. He threw 21 pitches (16 strikes – 76.2 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (23.8 SwStr%).

He has a 0.63 WHIP with 23 strikeouts against six walks (20 K-BB%) across 23.2 innings.

  • Devin Williams navigated around a hit and a walk with three strikeouts for a scoreless eighth, sealing his sixth hold. This extended his scoreless streak to eight games, spanning 7.1 innings with 13 strikeouts against two walks.
  • Mark Leiter Jr. collected his third win, working 1.1 scoreless innings, giving up a walk and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Luke Weaver | Devin Williams | Jonathan Loásiga

San Diego Padres – Finishing a two-run win over Atlanta, Robert Suarez nailed down his National League-leading 17th save with a clean bottom of the ninth. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) without a whiff against the 4-5-6 lineup pocket.

He’s posted a 0.86 WHIP with 22 strikeouts versus eight walks (17 K-BB%) through 22 innings.

  • Jason Adam fired a clean eighth and recorded a strikeout for his 13th hold.
  • Adrian Morejon tossed a clean seventh, securing his seventh hold.
  • Jeremiah Estrada collected his second win, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out two in a scoreless sixth. 

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

San Francisco Giants – Another white-knuckle ride with Ryan Walker at the bottom of the ninth. He allowed CJ Abrams’ lead-off double, induced a flyout, threw a wild pitch moving him to third, and gave up James Wood’s RBI double, cutting the lead to one. Walker bore down, striking out Nathaniel Lowe ahead of a game-ending flyout for his tenth save. He threw 17 pitches (11 strikes – 64.7 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (11.8 SwStr%).

This snapped his four-game scoreless streak, but he’s converted a save in his last three appearances.

  • Tyler Rogers fired a clean eighth and recorded a strikeout for his tenth hold.
  • Randy Rodríguez retired the side in the seventh, striking out one, and secured his sixth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Ryan Walker | Camilo Doval | Tyler Rogers

St. Louis Cardinals – Working into and out of trouble, Phil Maton secured his second hold, allowing a hit and a hit batter while striking out two during a one-run win over Arizona. His outing began with Alek Thomas’ double, followed by hitting Geraldo Perdomo with a pitch. Then Maton bore down, recording a strikeout against Corbin Carroll, inducing a pop-out by Ketel Marte, and a game-ending strikeout of Lourdes Gurriel Jr. with runners at second and third. He threw 20 pitches (75 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (10 SwStr%).

  • JoJo Romero worked a scoreless eighth despite walking one for his eighth hold.
  • John King collected his first win after retiring the side in the seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: Ryan Helsley | Kyle Leahy | Phil Maton

The Athletics – Appearing for a third consecutive game for the first time in his career, Mason Miller worked around Alec Bohm’s two-out single with a game-ending caught stealing, securing his 12th save. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (33.3 SwStr%) while preserving a one-run win over the Phillies. Note he leaned on his slider, not the four-seam in this outing:

This has been a tough stretch for the closer, but he displayed grit in this outing, rebounding with a much-needed scoreless outing and snapping his team’s losing skid.

  • Tyler Ferguson stranded a runner, retiring his only batter at the top of the eighth, and was awarded his first win.
  • Hogan Harris logged 2.2 innings, giving up two hits and an earned run while striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Mason Miller | Tyler Ferguson | Justin Sterner

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: After stranding a runner at the bottom of the sixth, Kevin Ginkel returned for the seventh, allowing Jordan Walker’s lead-off single, and retired the next batter on a groundout but was removed. Jalen Beeks entered with a runner on second and one out and gave up Victor Scott II’s RBI single, scoring the game-winning run and handing Ginkel his second loss.
  • Baltimore Orioles: Although he did not preserve the shutout, Andrew Kittredge closed out a four-run win in Boston. He allowed two hits and an earned run while striking out two on 23 pitches (18 strikes – 78.3 Strike%) with two whiffs. Bryan Baker retired the side at the bottom of the eighth.
  • Cincinnati Reds: Running on fumes, the bullpen flamed out on Sunday. Graham Ashcraft allowed four hits and three earned runs while striking out two at the top of the seventh. Taylor Rogers suffered his second loss and first blown save, giving up two hits, three earned runs, and a walk without recording an out. Luis Mey let both inherited runners score, serving up Seiya Suzuki’s go-ahead three-run home run.
  • Minnesota Twins: Called upon at the top of the tenth, Jhoan Durán suffered his first loss, allowing Maikel Garcia’s two-out RBI single, scoring the “place” runner. He threw 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). He owns a 1.11 WHIP with 29 strikeouts across 24.1 innings.
  • Philadephia Phillies: Handed a one-run lead at the bottom of the eighth, Matt Strahm issued a one-out walk, allowed an RBI triple by Lawrence Butler and a go-ahead RBI single by Willie MacIver, resulting in his third loss and second blown save. He finished with two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one.
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Handed a two-run lead at the top of the eighth, Ryan Borucki gave up three hits, three earned runs, and a walk during two-thirds of the inning, resulting in his second loss and third blown save. Chase Shugart stranded a runner in the eighth and logged 1.1 clean frames.
  • Seattle Mariners: With the score tied at the bottom of the ninth, Casey Legumina gave up Jose Altuve’s lead-off single, followed by Christian Walker’s walk-off, two-run home run, resulting in his second loss.
  • Washington Nationals: During an eventual loss, Cole Henry retired the side at the top of the ninth. He’s been scoreless in all 10 appearances in May while posting a 0.443 WHIP with eight strikeouts versus three walks across 11.1 innings.

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Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

BaseballSavant.com