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Monkey Bytes | May 24

Friday night’s slate featured some rough outings by high-leverage relievers. During its 15 games, relievers recorded six wins and nine saves while suffering seven losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB
Andrés Muñoz	17	7	100	14.3	0:0
Robert Suarez	16	19	68.4	10.5	0:0
Kenley Jansen	11	23	47.8	13	1:2
Emmanuel Clase	10	12	66.7	33.3	1:0
Ryan Helsley	10	22	68.2	13.6	1:0
Pete Fairbanks	9	15	66.7	13.3	2:1
Zach Agnos	3	13	46.2	15.4	0:1
Tanner Banks	1	4	75	25	1:0
Steven Wilson	1	17	64.7	0	0:1

For the save streamers, there are some slippery options because teams prefer match-ups and another attempt at a doubleheader in Boston:

Vulture Save Options for May 24

Pierce Johnson (ATL): Iglesias and Hernández have pitched in back-to-back games.
Alex Vesia (LAD): Scott has appeared in three of the previous four and tossed 67 pitches, he’s likely done for the remainder of the Mets’ series.
Carlos Hernández (PHI): Although Joe Ross likely works multiple innings in relief, Hernández may get the ninth with Romano, Strahm, and Kerkering all appearing in consecutive games.

Doubleheader Options

Baltimore Orioles: Preferred vulture: Andrew Kittredge; YOLO – Bryan Baker
Boston Red Sox: Preferred vulture: Justin Slaten; YOLO – Greg Weissert

Vulture Save Stashes for May 25

Cade Smith (CLE): If Clase pitches today, it will be consecutive appearances and three in four days.
Ryan Zeferjahn (LAA): If Jansen pitches today, it’s back-to-back games.

Three relievers amid some struggles are featured in today’s takeaways.

Three Takeaways

(1) Miller’s fastball has been flat: Summoned against the Phillies’ 5-6-7 lineup pocket with his team down 1-0, Mason Miller struggled with contact, allowing four hits and three earned runs while striking out one during two-thirds of the ninth. Two of the three runs scored with two outs. He’s permitted at least a run in four of his last five appearances since May 3, resulting in seven hits, ten runs (nine earned), and seven walks with nine strikeouts. He has suffered two losses and only converted one of two save chances in his last five games, during which he’s allowed seven hits and seven walks (2.979 WHIP) over 4.2 innings. Of his last 128 pitches, 77 have been strikes (60.2 Strike%) and he’s produced 21 whiffs (16.4 SwStr%) while working with fluctuating velocities:

For the season, he has a .412 batting average on balls in play (BAbip) and a .410 weighted on-base average (wOBA) with his four-seam fastball. Although generating a 28.4% swinging strike rate, his slider has allowed a .400 BABIP with a .189 wOBA. Recalling count leverage being tethered with Devin Williams‘ early season struggles, when Miller’s behind in counts, here is his heat map with his four-seam this year:

When hitters are ahead in the count, Miller’s four-seam has given up a 55.6 hard-hit percentage across nine batted ball events with a .513 xwOBA. He can rebound, but fantasy managers will closely monitor his upcoming outings.

(2) Raisel remains on the hot seat, but: It’s dejá vù all over again with Atlanta’s closer. Taking over a tied contest at the top of the ninth, Raisel Iglesias allowed Manny Machado’s lead-off solo home run, resulting in his fourth loss.

Iglesias has given up seven home runs this season (five against his slider), matching his total from all of 2023 and three more than last season. He also recorded a strikeout while throwing 17 pitches (10 strikes – 58.8 Strike%) with two whiffs. He’s allowed at least a run in five of seven games since May 8, including two home runs. Through 20.1 innings, he has a 1.33 WHIP with 21 strikeouts versus four walks (19.5 K-BB%). His 28 home run per fly ball percentage will not be sustainable, but the chasm in his SIERA (3.05) and xERA (5.38) reflects his struggle with contact quality this year. However, with the lack of a replacement in his current leverage ladder, he remains insulated as the closer, unless the team shifts the rotation or the trade market.

(3) Another sullied save for Helsley: The good news is Ryan Helsley recorded his tenth save in an eventual one-run win. However, he allowed Randal Grichuk’s lead-off single and Gabriel Moreno’s two-run home run before inducing a game-ending pop-out against Corbin Carroll.

Helsley threw 22 pitches (15 strikes – 68.2 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%) while recording a strikeout. This snapped his modest five-game scoreless streak and is only the second home run he’s allowed all season. He owns a 1.47 WHIP with 17 strikeouts against ten walks (9.4 K-BB%) across 17 innings. He has converted his last six save opportunities with a 1.33 WHIP and seven strikeouts against two walks (19.2 K-BB%) but he’s only recorded a clean save in two of ten chances this season.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Friday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Chicago Cubs – Pressed into action at the bottom of the fifth, Chris Flexen stranded two runners and logged 1.1 clean frames. He was awarded his second win after his team plated seven runs at the top of the seventh.

Brad Keller notched his sixth hold, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless bottom of the seventh.
Drew Pomeranz worked a scoreless eighth, walking and striking out one.
Ryan Pressly finished a seven-run win with a scoreless ninth, yielding a hit and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: *Daniel Palencia | *Brad Keller | *Drew Pomeranz

*= closer-by-committee

Chicago White Sox – Reliever roulette landed on Steven Wilson, and he converted his first save, tossing a scoreless ninth despite issuing a one-out walk. He threw 17 pitches (11 strikes – 64.7 Strike%) without a whiff.

His team recorded five saves by five relievers through its first 51 contests.

Jordan Leasure retired the side and recorded his eighth hold, facing Texas’ 9-1-2 lineup pocket.
Cam Booser worked a clean seventh, striking out one for his third hold.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Cleveland Guardians – Shutting the door on his tenth save, Emmanuel Clase preserved a two-run win over Detroit with a clean bottom of the ninth. Facing the 6-7-8 hitters, he recorded one strikeout, throwing 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and generating four whiffs (33.3 SwStr%).

He’s been scoreless in his last six and has a 1.57 WHIP with 22 strikeouts against five walks (18.1 K-BB%) through 20.1 innings.

Hunter Gaddis logged two scoreless frames, allowing a hit and striking out two for his 13th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Colorado Rockies – Preserving a one-run win over the Yankees, Zach Agnos navigated around a one-out walk to Jasson Domínguez by retiring Anthony Volpe via groundout and a game-ending Austin Wells lineout to shortstop for his third save. He threw 13 pitches (46.2 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).

He’s posted a 0.93 WHIP with seven strikeouts through 14 innings.

Seth Halvorsen notched his second hold, walking and striking out one during a scoreless top of the eighth against the top of the batting order.
Jake Bird worked a clean seventh, striking out one for his fifth hold.

Updated Hierarchy: *Zach Agnos | *Seth Halvorsen | Jake Bird

*= closer-by-committee

Houston Astros – Appearing during a loss, Josh Hader retired the side on nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%) while facing Seattle’s 1-2-3 lineup pocket.

Bryan Abreu suffered his second loss and third blown save, giving up three hits, including Cal Raleigh’s go-ahead two-run home run, and let his only inherited runner score at the top of the seventh.
Bryan King gets credit for his 11th hold despite allowing a hit and an earned run during two-thirds of the seventh.
Shawn Dubin stranded a runner, yielding a hit and a walk during two-thirds of the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bryan King

Los Angeles Angels – Handed a three-run lead at the top of the ninth, Kenley Jansen issued Kyle Stowers a lead-off walk, and with one out, he stole second, followed by a strikeout and a second walk, putting two runners on, before a game-ending pop-out, resulting in his 11th save. He threw 23 pitches (11 strikes – 47.8 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%).

He also intentionally balked a runner to third when Stowers reached second base, but Jansen has converted four saves in his last four appearances since May 17.

Héctor Neris let both inherited runners score after throwing a wild pitch and allowing Eric Wagaman’s two-RBI single before recording two strikeouts for his fourth hold at the top of the eighth.
Shaun Anderson allowed six hits and four earned runs while striking out one during 1.1 innings.
Hunter Strickland notched his second hold, stranding the bases-loaded with an inning-ending groundout, his only batter faced.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Héctor Neris | Ryan Zeferjahn

Los Angeles Dodgers – Outlasting the Mets and logging 2.1 scoreless innings, Luis García earned his second win, issuing two walks and stranding three inherited runners at the bottom of the 11th. Anthony Banda issued two walks and recorded a strikeout in two-thirds scoreless in the 11th. Lou Trivino stranded a runner and retired both batters in the tenth. Alex Vesia stranded a runner at the bottom of the ninth, tossing a combined scoreless inning, yielding a hit and striking out two.

Tanner Scott suffered his fourth blown save, allowing three hits, three earned runs, and a walk during one-third of the ninth.

This was his third appearance in the last four days after working 1.2 innings on Tuesday. He’s allowed seven hits, two home runs, and five earned runs in this stretch.

Ben Casparius recorded his fifth hold, tossing three scoreless frames, issuing a walk, and striking out six.

Hierarchy Remains: Tanner Scott | Ben Casparius | Alex Vesia

Milwaukee Brewers – Handed a one-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, Abner Uribe suffered his first blown save, giving up Oneil Cruz’s one-out game-tying solo home run and a single while striking out one. He returned for the tenth with a one-run lead, allowing Alexander Canario’s game-tying RBI single, induced a groundout, issued an intentional walk (Adam Frazier), then uncorked a walk-off wild pitch, scoring the game-winning run. Uribe was tagged with his first loss, allowing four hits, three runs (two earned), and a walk while striking out one during 1.2 innings.

Nick Mears gave up a hit during a scoreless eighth.
Jared Koenig incurred his first blown save, giving up two hits and an earned run at the bottom of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Nick Mears

New York Mets – During the top of the 13th against the Dodgers’ 5-6-7 lineup pocket, Huascar Brazobán suffered his first loss. He allowed Teoscar Hernández’s go-ahead RBI double, among his three hits, resulting in two runs (one earned).

Reed Garrett tossed two scoreless frames across the 11th and 12th innings, issuing a walk and striking out two.
Edwin Díaz worked a scoreless tenth, yielding a walk. He threw 12 pitches (5 strikes – 41.7 Strike%) without a whiff.
Génesis Cabrera logged two scoreless innings, giving up a hit and striking out two.
Ryne Stanek retired both batters at the top of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Ryne Stanek | Reed Garrett

Philadelphia Phillies – Making a non-save appearance, Jordan Romano could not complete the combined shutout or the ninth inning. He allowed Brent Rooker’s lead-off single and issued Shea Langeliers a walk before retiring Miguel Andujar via strikeout. However, Nick Kurtz launched a three-run home run, cutting the lead to one. Romano bore down, recording another strikeout, then was removed after allowing CJ Alexander’s single. He finished with three hits, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out two on 28 pitches (13 strikes – 46.4 Strike%) and induced two whiffs.

Tanner Banks notched his first save, striking out Lawrence Butler.
Matt Strahm secured his seventh hold, yielding a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
Orion Kerkering stranded two runners and retired his only batter via strikeout for his eighth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jordan Romano | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

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

Pittsburgh Pirates – Courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the tenth, Ryan Borucki collected his first win. He allowed a hit and an unearned run while striking out one at the top of the inning.Isaac Mattson stranded two inherited runners and recorded a strikeout at the top of the ninth. David Bednar allowed William Contreras’ go-ahead solo home run and issued two walks while striking out one in one-third of the ninth. He threw 24 pitches (45.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s allowed at least a run in three of his last five appearances.

Caleb Ferguson stranded two runners, retiring two batters while issuing a walk and striking out one in the eighth.
Dennis Santana let one of two inherited runners score in the seventh and scattered three hits while striking out three in a scoreless combined inning.

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

*= match-up-based approach

San Diego Padres – Benefiting from a baserunning snafu, Robert Suarez preserved a one-run margin and recorded his National League-leading 16th save with a scoreless ninth, navigating around two hits. After allowing Alex Verdugo’s lead-off single, Eli White replaced him as the pinch runner and moved to second on a groundout, then was thrown out on an Ozzie Albies single, thinking the ball had been caught. Suarez induced an inning-ending groundout and threw 19 pitches (13 strikes – 68.4 Strike%) with two whiffs (10.5 SwStr%).

Jason Adam collected his fifth win, retiring one batter at the bottom of the eighth.
Adrian Morejon worked 1.2 clean frames and recorded three strikeouts, keeping the game tied.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

Seattle Mariners – Locking down his MLB-leading 17th save, Andrés Muñoz fired a clean bottom of the ninth and preserved a two-run win in Houston. He retired the 2-3-4 lineup pocket on seven pitches, all strikes, with one whiff (14.3 SwStr%).

He owns a 0.71 WHIP with 28 strikeouts versus eight walks (23.5 K-BB%) through 22.2 innings.

Carlos Vargas navigated around two hits for a scoreless eighth and his seventh hold.
Matt Brash gave up a walk during a scoreless seventh, securing his third hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Andrés Muñoz | Carlos Vargas | Matt Brash

Tampa Bay Rays – Securing his ninth save, Pete Fairbanks navigated around a two-out walk and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless ninth against Toronto’s 6-7-8-9 hitters. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%).

This marks his first save since May 8. He’s posted a 1.19 WHIP with 22 strikeouts versus ten walks (13.5 K-BB%) over 21 innings.

Edwin Uceta notched his eighth hold with a scoreless eighth, working around two walks.
Manuel Rodríguez retired all three batters faced at the top of the seventh for his sixth hold, stranding two of three inherited runners.
Mason Montgomery issued three walks, resulting in an earned run without recording an out in the seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Garrett Cleavinger

Quick Hits

Baltimore Orioles: As the first reliever out of the bullpen, Seranthony Domínguez suffered his first loss and a first blown save at the bottom of the sixth. He gave up two hits, three earned runs, and a walk while retiring one batter. Gregory Soto let both inherited runners score, allowing two hits, including Rafael Devers’ home run, resulting in two earned runs on his ledger through two-thirds of the sixth.
Boston Red Sox: Called upon with his team down one at the top of the fifth, Brennan Bernardino retired the side. Garrett Whitlock logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out three. He collected his third win after his teammates rallied for five runs at the bottom of the sixth. Whitlock threw 30 pitches (80 Strike%) and induced four whiffs (13.3 SwStr%).
Kansas City Royals: After not allowing a home run across 69.2 innings, Lucas Erceg has given one up in consecutive appearances. He took over a tied game at the bottom of the ninth and recorded a strikeout against Matt Wallner before yielding Carlos Correa’s single, followed by Ty France’s walk-off home run, resulting in his first loss.
Minnesota Twins: Entering a tied game at the top of the ninth, Cole Sands retired the side against the Royals’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket, then collected his third win courtesy of a walk-off home run by Ty France. He threw 14 pitches (9 strikes – 64.3 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).
San Francisco Giants: Completing the combined shutout, Camilo Doval retired the side on 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff while facing the Nationals’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket in a non-save capacity. He extended his scoreless streak to 19 games, during which he has posted a 0.50 WHIP with 18 strikeouts versus five walks (21.7 K-BB%) across 18 innings.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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Monkey Bytes | May 23

Thursday’s slate was reduced by one game when Boston postponed against Baltimore. While each team’s bullpen received much-needed rest in Beantown, relievers recorded five wins and three saves while suffering three losses. Three closers were also tagged with blown saves: Jeff Hoffman, Robert Suarez, and Kyle Finnegan. Here are the saves from yesterday:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB
Trevor Megill	8	15	66.7	0	1:0
Luke Weaver	7	10	70	20	1:0
Jordan Romano	6	10	80	30	2:0

Before delving into yesterday’s action, three relievers of interest for the save streamers (if available):

Vulture Save Options for May 23

Devin Williams (NYY): Going to the well again after Weaver was used in a third consecutive contest, he will be unavailable in Colorado tonight.
Abner Uribe (MIL): Megill has pitched in back-to-back games and four of the previous five.
Yimi García (TOR): Hoffman threw 23 pitches during his blown save and could receive tonight off as he looks for a reset.

Doubleheader Options

Baltimore Orioles: Preferred option – Andrew Kittredge; YOLO – Bryan Baker
Boston Red Sox: Preferred option – Justin Slaten; YOLO – Garrett Whitlock

Because of the limited seven-game slate, there will not be takeaways today, but the notes will more detailed for the teams below.

Closer CliffsNotes

Atlanta Braves – Tasked with a tied score at the bottom of the tenth, Dylan Lee recorded an out on a sacrifice bunt and allowed Amed Rosario’s RBI single, resulting in his third loss.

Raisel Iglesias retired the side against the Nationals’ 5-6-7 lineup pocket in the ninth on nine pitches (66.7 Strike%) with one whiff (11.1 SwStr%).

He has a 1.34 WHIP with 20 strikeouts versus four walks (19.3 K-BB%) across 19.1 innings. He also had a decline in his average pitch velocities in this appearance, which can be seen in this chart from Statcast, displaying his average velocities by game this season:

His xERA does not portend positive regression, and he has an expected weighted on-base average (xwOBA) of .300 or higher with each of his pitches this year. Increased traffic on the bases and working with reduced velocity must be something fantasy managers monitor closely as June approaches:

Daysbel Hernández issued a walk and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless eighth.
Pierce Johnson navigated around two hits and struck out one during a scoreless seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Raisel Iglesias | Daysbel Hernández | Dylan Lee

Cleveland Guardians – Finishing a combined shutout, Matt Festa retired the side and recorded a strikeout in Detroit.

Cade Smith notched his tenth hold after taking over a bases-loaded situation at the bottom of the eighth, striking out the side while facing the 2-3-4 hitters. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and generated seven whiffs (46.7 SwStr%) in a dominant performance, during which he shifted the game’s momentum.

Tim Herrin allowed two hits and a walk without recording an out at the bottom of the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Los Angeles Angels – In order of appearance, Hunter Strickland let one of three inherited runners score at the bottom of the fifth on a bases-loaded walk, then induced a pop-out. He worked a scoreless sixth, working around a hit and a walk. He collected his first win despite giving up a hit and two walks across 1.1 scoreless frames.

Reid Detmers notched his second hold, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out one.
Ryan Zeferjahn secured his eighth hold, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out one.
Connor Brogdon closed out a five-run win with a clean bottom of the ninth, recording two strikeouts.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Héctor Neris | Ryan Zeferjahn

Milwaukee Brewers – Securing his eighth save, Trevor Megill retired the side and recorded one strikeout, preserving a three-run win. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) without a whiff while facing the 4-5-6 lineup pocket of the Pirates’.

He has allowed one unearned run during his last ten appearances and converted six save opportunities with nine strikeouts against four walks (13.9 K-BB%) and a 1.00 WHIP.

Carlos Rodriguez recorded his first major league win as the “bulk follower,” logging 3.1 innings, giving up five hits, three earned runs, and four walks while striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Nick Mears

New York Yankees – Preserving a combined shutout and a one-run margin, Luke Weaver not only recorded his seventh save but became the first Yankees’ reliever to appear in three straight games since Aroldis Chapman in September 2021. He retired the side, recorded one strikeout on ten pitches (70 Strike%), and produced two whiffs (20 SwStr%). He posted a win and two saves in this three-day span while throwing an efficient 18 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%) across 2.1 clean frames with one strikeout.

Through 21 appearances, he’s only allowed one unearned run while recording a 0.53 WHIP with 23 strikeouts versus six walks (21.5 K-BB%) over 22.2 innings.

Devin Williams locked down his fifth hold, retiring the side and striking out one.

He extended his scoreless streak to seven games with two wins, three holds, a 0.476 WHIP, and 10 strikeouts across 6.1 innings. In these outings, he has posted a 39.2 K-BB percentage, a 69.1 strike percentage, and an 18.6 percent swinging strike rate. But will he return as the closer? Time will tell; for now, if it’s not broken, don’t fix it, may be Aaron Boone’s mantra.

Mark Leiter Jr. navigated around two hits and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless seventh for his seventh hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Luke Weaver | Devin Williams | Jonathan Loásiga

Philadelphia Phillies – Shutting the door on his sixth save, Jordan Romano fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts, preserving a combined shutout in Colorado. He threw 10 pitches (80 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (30 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to nine games since April 27, during which he has recorded five saves, two holds, and a 0.44 WHIP with 13 strikeouts versus one walk (40 K-BB%) through nine innings.

Matt Strahm allowed a lead-off single by Brenton Doyle, then retired the next three batters.
Orion Kerkering took over with two runners on and two outs at the bottom of the seventh. He induced an inning-ending pop-out by Hunter Goodman on one pitch, securing his seventh hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jordan Romano | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

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

San Diego Padres – Taking over at the bottom of the 11th, Jeremiah Estrada allowed Daulton Varsho’s lead-off triple, scoring the “place” runner, intentionally walked Addison Barger, induced a flyout, followed by Nathan Lukes’ walk-off opposite-field single, resulting in his third loss and a second blown save.

Robert Suarez suffered his second blown save, giving up Jonathan Clase’s lead-off RBI single at the top of the tenth and Alejandro Kirk’s one-out single before recording a strikeout and an inning-ending flyout by Vlad Guerrero Jr., keeping the game tied. Suarez threw 16 pitches (87.5 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%).

Jason Adam navigated around two walks for a scoreless bottom of the ninth.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Jason Adam | Jeremiah Estrada

Toronto Blue Jays – After stranding a runner and retiring his only batter at the top of the 11th, Braydon Fisher collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off at the bottom of the inning. Brendon Little let the “place” runner score in the tenth and 11th innings, giving up two hits and recording two strikeouts across 1.2 innings.

Jeff Hoffman was tagged with his second blown save, issuing Jackson Merrill a lead-off walk, a leverage no-no, and allowing Gavin Sheets’ game-tying two-run home run.

Hoffman bore down, retiring the next three batters, two via strikeout. He threw 23 pitches (13 strikes – 56.5 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (13 SwStr%).

In a word, May has been rough. He’s made nine appearances and allowed multiple runs in four, totaling 13 earned across seven innings. What does not make sense, his 30.4 K-BB percentage ranks sixth-best among his peers, and his 1.90 SIERA represents one of the larger disparities in ERA-SIERA:

Name	ERA	SIERA	ERA-SIERA
Noah Murdock	13.24	5.55	7.69
Eduardo Salazar	9.77	4.11	5.66
Jeff Hoffman	6.04	1.90	4.14
Joel Payamps	8.35	4.21	4.14
George Soriano	8.35	4.23	4.12
Chris Stratton	7.94	4.04	3.90
Jordan Romano	6.87	3.07	3.80
Ryan Thompson	7.50	3.71	3.79
Reid Detmers	7.52	3.82	3.70
Griffin Jax	4.98	1.75	3.23
Brandon Eisert	5.79	2.80	2.99
Jose A. Ferrer	6.15	3.27	2.88
Jorge Alcala	7.27	4.39	2.88
Devin Williams	6.50	3.65	2.85
Mason Englert	6.00	3.16	2.84
Angel Zerpa	5.89	3.13	2.76
Ryne Nelson	5.32	2.75	2.57
Mason Miller	4.50	1.94	2.56

He’s decreased his contact allowed in the strike zone, but his .319 batting average on balls in play (BAbip) and 57.9 strand percentage are at career lows as a reliever. There is no quick fix unless he improves his split-finger and slider in his upcoming appearances.

Yimi García gave up a hit during a scoreless ninth, securing his sixth hold.
Chad Green took over at the top of the sixth, yielding a hit and retiring two batters for his fourth hold.
Mason Fluharty notched his third hold, retiring all three batters and recording one strikeout.
Yariel Rodríguez fired 1.1 clean frames, striking out three across the fifth and sixth innings. He owns an eight-game scoreless streak with 13 strikeouts versus one walk (33.3 K-BB%), a 0.455 WHIP, and a 16.8 percent swinging strike rate across 11 innings. He’s only posted four holds, but his leverage role in this bullpen should be rising soon.

Hierarchy Remains (for now): Jeff Hoffman | Yimi García | Chad Green

Washington Nationals – Entering at the top of the tenth, Jackson Rutledge induced a flyout, allowed an infield single, put runners at the corners, and produced an inning-ending double play groundout. He collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning.

Kyle Finnegan was tagged with his second blown save during the top of the ninth. He gave up Sean Murphy’s lead-off single, recorded a pop-out on a bunt, then Austin Riley reached on a fielder’s choice error instead of a potential game-ending double play. Matt Olson lined an RBI double, with a runner thrown out at home, but the unearned run tied the contest. Finnegan threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

Jorge López retired the side in the eighth for his fifth hold.
Jose A. Ferrer allowed two hits, an earned run, and recorded a strikeout for his 11th hold in the seventh.
Cole Henry fired a clean sixth, striking out one, and secured his second hold. He’s been scoreless through nine appearances in May with two holds, eight strikeouts versus three walks (13.5 K-BB%), and a 0.485 WHIP across 10.1 innings.

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

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Statistical Credits:

BrooksBaseball.net

Monkey Bytes | May 22

Wednesday’s slate had another weather postponement but still yielded eight wins for relievers and four saves against five losses. A blown save accompanied one win (Bryan Baker) during an extra-inning contest in Milwaukee. As for the saves:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB
Andrés Muñoz	16	16	56.3	18.8	0:0
Taner Scott	10	14	85.7	14.3	2:0
Dennis Santana	5	12	83.3	25	2:0
Daniel Palencia	1	13	61.5	7.7	0:0

Unlike the weather patterns near me, a light forecast for vulture saves:

Vulture Save Options for May 22

Andrew Kittredge (BAL): Bautista appeared on consecutive days for the first time yesterday and will be unavailable today, and potentially tomorrow in Boston.
Devin Williams (NYY): Weaver has pitched in back-to-back games, albeit only eight pitches total, but this does not account for warm-up tosses getting ready. Aaron Boone prefers not to use relievers in three consecutive contests.

Three Takeaways

(1) Megill and pending regression: Entering at the top of the tenth against Baltimore, Trevor Megill gave up two hits and an unearned run. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s posted a 1.24 WHIP with 17 strikeouts over 15.1 innings. When viewing his underlying data at Fangraphs, there are no discernible differences in his contact rates allowed or swinging strike percentage. However, when one notes his 2.35 ERA has a 3.77 SIERA and a 5.73 xERA, there may be reason for concern. Since xERA accounts for quality of contact, here are his updated batted ball results since 2022:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Ry1Y0/2/

Given his good contact rate of 30 percent this year, compared to a poor contact rate of 15 percent, combined with his 13.8 K-BB percentage, this should raise some concern. In yesterday’s outing, here were his pitch illustrator results:

His four-seam fastball currently has a .348 xBA and a .462 expected weighted on-base average (xwOBA). His contact struggles will persist if he falls behind in counts and is forced to throw pitches in the strike zone. It’s why Abner Uribe remains on our stash lists for future saves.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Nick Mears

(2) Luke Jackson edging toward the hot seat: He recorded his last save on April 25 and has not had many opportunities since, whether it’s game flow or being sidelined by a comeback line drive off his arm. He’s allowed at least a run in three of his seven appearances since the 25th, with two of his six hits allowed being home runs. Over his last four innings since April 27, he’s suffered two losses, including last night’s walk-off in New York, while recording five strikeouts against five walks with a 2.75 WHIP. It’s a limited sample, but he has a 63.6 hard-hit percentage and a Z-Contact (in the strike zone) percentage of 90 percent, which one can observe in this rolling game chart from Fangraphs:

With Chris Martin on the injured list and Robert Garcia struggling in recent appearances, there is no clear replacement on the roster. Shawn Armstong filled in for two saves but has inherent risk as a high-leverage option. It was intimated during the spring Jon Gray could have been an option at closer and this may resurface as he nears a return in three to four weeks. Another name worth tracking may be Kumar Rocker. He’s struggled to remain healthy as a starting pitcher but could cut his teeth for the remainder of the season as a high-leverage reliever. This may be fluid soon, but planning on Jackson as the closer in mid-June may be a mistake.

Hierarchy remains: Luke Jackson | Robert Garcia | Shawn Armstrong

(3) “The Mountain” works in back-to-back games: Félix Bautista made his first appearance on consecutive days since returning from Tommy John surgery, but it did not go as planned. He issued a one-out walk, followed by another with two outs, and Caleb Durbin’s game-tying RBI single, handing him his first blown save. Bautista threw 24 pitches (45.8 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). Here is his pitch illustrator:

He’s allowed at least a run in four straight games since posting a save on May 9. In these 3.2 innings, he has allowed two home runs among his five hits, five earned runs, and five walks while striking out three. Of more significant concern, he’s only thrown 50 percent of his pitches as strikes. For the season, he has a 43.8 first-strike percentage, down almost 15 percent compared to 2023 and his 9.4 K-BB% and 1.43 WHIP are hurting his fantasy managers. How he responds in June may be telling about his rest-of-the-season statistics.

Updated Hierarchy: Félix Bautista | Andrew Kittredge | Gregory Soto

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Wednesday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Chicago Cubs – Handed a one-run lead, Daniel Palencia shut the door on his first save, retiring the side against Miami’s 6-7-8 lineup pocket. He threw 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

He’s been the preferred save choice since Porter Hodge was placed on the injured list and has been scoreless in 11 of his last 12 games with a 0.917 WHIP and 13 strikeouts against five walks.

Brad Keller collected his first win, retiring all four batters faced and stranded a runner with a double play groundout during his 1.2 clean frames.
Caleb Thielbar worked a scoreless combined inning and issued a walk.

Adjusted Hierarchy: *Daniel Palencia | *Brad Keller | *Drew Pomeranz

*= closer-by-committee

Cleveland Guardians – (SSP Game) – Cade Smith entered a tied game at the bottom of the ninth and allowed a hit batter, then two hits, including Kody Clemens’ walk-off RBI double, resulting in his second loss.

During the regularly scheduled contest, Emmanuel Clase worked around a hit and finished a four-run win with a scoreless bottom of the ninth. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s allowed one unearned run during seven appearances in May with seven strikeouts versus two walks.

Hunter Gaddis retired the side and recorded one strikeout for his 12th hold in the eighth.
Tim Herrin issued a walk and tossed a scoreless seventh, securing his eighth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

Los Angeles Angels – Taking over at the bottom of the seventh with two runners on and no outs, Héctor Neris retired The Athletics’ 9-1-2 hitters in order on eight pitches (75 Strike%) without a whiff. He was awarded his second win as a result.

Ryan Zeferjahn recorded his seventh hold, giving up a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
Connor Brogdon closed the five-run victory with a clean bottom of the ninth.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Héctor Neris | Ryan Zeferjahn

Los Angeles Dodgers – Locking down his tenth save, Tanner Scott fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts, preserving a two-run win over Arizona. He threw 14 pitches (85.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).

He has a 0.81 WHIP with 25 strikeouts versus one walk (28.6 K-BB%) through 23.1 innings.

Lou Trivino notched his second hold, logging 1.1 clean frames and striking out one.
Jack Dreyer allowed two hits and recorded two outs at the top of the seventh, getting credit for his third hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Tanner Scott | Ben Casparius | Alex Vesia

Minnesota Twins – During the conclusion of the suspended game from Monday, Jhoan Durán could not stem the tide at the top of the ninth, letting both inherited runners score. He took over with no outs and two runners on and induced a groundout followed by Nolan Jones’ RBI single, then moved runners into scoring position with a wild pitch. After recording a strikeout, Durán gave up Bo Naylor’s game-tying RBI double before an inning-ending groundout, resulting in his first blown save. However, he collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw 23 pitches (14 strikes – 60.9 Strike%) and induced three whiffs.

He has a 1.07 WHIP with 26 strikeouts versus nine walks (18.3 K-BB%) through 22.1 innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Griffin Jax | Louis Varland

New York Yankees – Remaining efficient, Luke Weaver entered at the top of the ninth with a runner on first and no outs. He retired Wyatt Langford on a lineout and Josh Jung on a flyout and benefited from an inning-ending caught stealing, stranding his runner. Weaver collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off home run. He threw six pitches (66.7 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s recorded two saves and a win in his last three appearances while throwing 10 pitches between them. On the season, he’s posted a 0.55 WHIP with 22 strikeouts versus six walks (20.2 K-BB%) through 21.2 innings.

Updated Hierarchy: Luke Weaver | Devin Williams | Jonathan Loásiga

Pittsburgh Pirates – Securing his fifth save, Dennis Santana retired the side and recorded two strikeouts while finishing a two-run win in Cincinnati. He threw 12 pitches (83.3 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (25 SwStr%) against the 4-5-6 lineup pocket.

He’s been scoreless in 10 of his last 11 appearances with a 0.68 WHIP and nine strikeouts against zero walks through 10.1 innings.

Caleb Ferguson notched his sixth hold, logging 1.1 clean frames and striking out one.
Tanner Rainey recorded two outs and hit a batter for his first hold in the seventh.
Chase Shugart worked a scoreless sixth, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one for his second hold.

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

*= match-up-based approach

Seattle Mariners – Recording his MLB-leading 16th save, Andrés Muñoz navigated around Andrew Vaughn’s lead-off single by retiring the next three White Sox batters, preserving the one-run margin. He threw 16 pitches (9 strikes – 56.3 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%).

He owns a 0.74 WHIP with 28 strikeouts against eight walks (23.3 K-BB%) across 21.2 innings.

Carlos Vargas tossed a clean bottom of the eighth and recorded a strikeout for his sixth hold.
Casey Legumina collected his fourth win. He gave up a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out two during the bottom of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Casey Legumina | Matt Brash

Tampa Bay Rays -Closing a four-run win, Pete Fairbanks tossed a scoreless top of the ninth, allowing a hit and striking out two. He threw 20 pitches (55 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He last recorded a save on May 4 and has posted a 1.20 WHIP with 20 strikeouts through 20 innings.

Edwin Uceta was credited with his seventh hold despite giving up two solo home runs and recording two strikeouts in the eighth.
Garrett Cleavinger notched his fifth hold, firing a clean seventh while striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Mason Montgomery

Quick Hits

Boston Red Sox: After retiring both batters at the top of the sixth via strikeout, Liam Hendriks suffered his first loss, giving up three hits, resulting in three earned runs during the seventh. Brennan Bernardino let all three inherited runners score, yielding a hit and a walk.
Colorado Rockies: Appearing in a loss, Zach Agnos retired the Phillies’ 6-7-8 lineup pocket in order on six pitches (83.3 Strike%) without a whiff.
Detroit Tigers: Against St. Louis, Chase Lee took over at the bottom of the fourth and logged two clean frames while recording two strikeouts. As a result, he was awarded his first win.
Kansas City Royals: Appearing with a six-run lead, Lucas Erceg allowed two hits, including Heliot Ramos’ two-run home run and a walk, while striking out one during the bottom of the ninth. This snapped his 12-game scoreless streak, but he’s still posted a 0.65 WHIP with 16 strikeouts over 21.2 innings. As the first reliever out of the bullpen, Jonathan Bowlan collected his first career win, logging 1.1 innings across the second and third innings, giving up two hits and an earned run while striking out one.
Miami Marlins: With the score tied at the top of the eighth, Anthony Bender issued Matt Shaw a lead-off walk, a leverage mortal sin, induced a flyout, and allowed the game-winning run score on Kyle Tucker’s RBI single, resulting in his third loss.

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Monkey Bytes | May 21

There was another postponement in Minnesota, but the 14-game slate on Tuesday yielded a bevy of high-leverage events. Relievers recorded four wins, ten saves, and six losses, with two recording their first save of the season. Here are the saves in condensed form:

Reliever	Save #	Pitches	Strike%	SwStr%	K:BB
Kyle Finnegan	15	10	100	20	0:0
Jeff Hoffman	10	9	88.9	22.2	1:0
Kenley Jansen	10	20	70	15	2:0
Ryan Walker	9	8	62.5	0	0:0
Aroldis Chapman	8	6	83.3	16.7	0:0
Tommy Kahnle	6	12	66.7	8.3	1:0
Luke Weaver	6	2	50	0	0:0
David Bednar	4	16	62.5	0	0:0
Jordan Leasure	1	23	56.5	8.7	2:0
Abner Uribe	1	15	73.3	20	3:0

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for May 21

Garrett Whitlock (BOS): Chapman, Slaten, and Weissert pitched the previous two days.
Brad Keller (CHC): If there is a save chance, he may emerge as a preferred option.
Kendall Graveman (ARI): Miller has worked in three consecutive games, and Ginkel has pitched in four of the last five. (The only caveat: Justin Martinez could be activated after pitching at Triple-A last night.)
Bryan Baker (BAL): Bautista pitched during last night’s loss and has not appeared in back-to-back games this season.
Beau Brieske (DET): Vest has appeared three times in the previous four days, and Kahnle has pitched in two of the last three.
Héctor Neris (LAA): Jansen has logged an appearance in back-to-back contests and four of the last five days.

Suspended Game continuation aided doubleheader options

Cleveland: YOLO – Matt Festa
Minnesota: YOLO – Cole Sands

Vulture Save Stashes for May 22

Yimi García (TOR): If Hoffman pitches today, it’s consecutive appearances.

Three Takeaways

(1) Perplexed by Pittsburgh no more: Going through the game logs and batters faced by batting order, things become clearer in the usage patterns with Don Kelly as manager. In the chart, David Bednar has appeared in six games since May 8 and Dennis Santana in five; the top line reflects hitters in their batting order with the number of times each reliever has faced them below:

Batting Order Position	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9
David Bednar	4	5	6	4	2	2	0	0	2
Dennis Santana	1	0	0	0	2	1	4	5	4

Bednar has matched against the opponent’s third hitter in each game, whereas Santana has faced the other team’s eighth hitter in all of his. Who gets the save will depend on which reliever will be available and which lineup pocket bats in the eighth or ninth inning. Last night, Bednar worked around TJ Friedl’s lead-off single with a double play groundout and an Elly De La Cruz flyout, resulting in his fourth save. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) without a whiff. This marked his first save since April 30 and he faced the 1-2-3 lineup pocket. Dennis Santana retired the side against the 7-8-9 lineup pocket, throwing 10 pitches (60 Strike%) with one whiff for his fifth hold. He’s been scoreless in six of seven outings in May with a win, a save, and a hold.

(2) Uribe provides an alluring sneak preview: Appearing in a third straight game, Abner Uribe fired a clean top of the ninth while striking out the side for his first save this season and first since April 2 last year. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%).

This extended his scoreless streak to 13 games, during which he’s posted a 1.083 WHIP with 21 strikeouts against five walks (32.7 K-BB%) across 12 innings. Those with room should have him stashed for save chances later this season.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Nick Mears

(3) J-Mart’s return may be imminent: Pitching at Triple-A for Reno, Justin Martinez allowed a hit during a scoreless inning, throwing 13 pitches (7 strikes – 53.8 Strike%) and inducing two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%).

More importantly, he recorded five pitches with triple-digit velocity:

He could be activated for the next series and resume a high-leverage role for the Diamondbacks. His workload will be managed, but seeing the velocity rebound after his time off is encouraging.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Tuesday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Arizona Diamondbacks – Entering at the bottom of the tenth with a two-run lead, Shelby Miller suffered his first loss and a third blown save. He allowed Tommy Edman’s lead-off double, scoring the “place” runner, intentionally walked Shohei Ohtani, induced a Mookie Betts’ flyout, and then intentionally walked Freddie Freeman, loading the bases. However, he scored the tying run, hitting Will Smith with a pitch and the walk-off run on a sacrifice fly. Miller finished with a hit, three runs (two earned), and two walks (both intentional) over his two-thirds of an inning.

Kevin Ginkel worked a scoreless ninth, walking two and striking out two.
Jalen Beeks gave up a hit during a scoreless eighth.
Kendall Graveman tossed a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remain: Shelby Miller | Kevin Ginkel | Jalen Beeks

Boston Red Sox – Finishing a combined shutout, Aroldis Chapman retired the side at the top of the ninth, facing the Mets’ 5-6-7 lineup pocket for his eighth save. He only needed six pitches (83.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff (16.7 SwStr%).

He has a 1.00 WHIP with 26 strikeouts against seven walks (25 K-BB%) through 19 innings. Justin Slaten logged 1.2 clean frames and stranded a runner in the seventh for his second hold. Greg Weissert allowed a hit during two-thirds scoreless of the seventh, securing his seventh hold. Justin Wilson worked two-thirds scoreless, walking one and striking out two. Garrett Whitlock collected his second win, yielding two hits and striking out one during a scoreless fifth.

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Justin Slaten | Greg Weissert

Chicago White Sox – Preserving a 1-0 win and securing his first save, Jordan Leasure worked around Donovan Solano’s two-out double with a game-ending strikeout. Leasure recorded two strikeouts while throwing 23 pitches (13 strikes – 56.5 Strike%) with two whiffs.

During his seven appearances in May, he has a 1.132 WHIP with nine strikeouts versus one walk (38.1 K-BB%), this save, and five holds across 5.1 innings.

Cam Booser stranded two runners while allowing a walk and striking out one during two-thirds of the eighth for his second hold.
Steven Wilson was credited with his sixth hold despite giving up a hit and hitting a batter over one-third of the eighth.
Brandon Eisert tossed a clean seventh and recorded a strikeout for his second hold.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Detroit Tigers – Handed a one-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, Tommy Kahnle retired the side and recorded a strikeout en route to his sixth save. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. This represents his first save since April 30, and he owns a 0.81 WHIP with 20 strikeouts through 19.2 innings.

Will Vest collected his fourth win despite issuing two walks and striking out one during a scoreless bottom of the eighth.
Tyler Holton gave up a hit and an earned run.
Tyler Holton suffered his second blown save, giving up a hit and an earned run during the seventh.
Brenan Hanifee stranded a runner, allowing two hits before the bottom of the sixth.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Los Angeles Angels – After appearing for the fourth time in five days, Kenley Jansen recorded his tenth save. He did allow Lawrence Butler’s two-out single, who moved up to third on defensive indifference and scored on a Seth Brown single before a game-ending strikeout, preserving the two-run win. Jansen threw 20 pitches (70 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (15 SwStr%) while striking out two.

He has a 1.37 WHIP with 15 strikeouts across 15.1 innings.

Brock Burke retired his only batter in the eighth for his sixth hold.
Hunter Strickland worked a clean combined inning, securing his first hold.
Reid Detmers stranded a runner and allowed a hit while striking out one during his scoreless combined inning.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Héctor Neris | Ryan Zeferjahn

Los Angeles Dodgers – Called upon with two outs and a runner on first, Anthony Banda retired his only batter (Josh Naylor) on three pitches, then collected his fourth win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the tenth.

Tanner Scott suffered his third blown save, allowing a game-tying Gabriel Montero solo home run at the top of the ninth. He returned for the tenth, giving up Corbin Carroll’s one-out, two-run home run, and finished with four hits, three runs (two earned), and two strikeouts over his 1.2 innings. He threw 28 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (10.7 SwStr%).

Ben Casparius retired his only batter via strikeout, stranding all three inherited runners at the top of the eighth for his fourth hold.
Alex Vesia gave up two hits and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the eighth, getting credit for his 11th hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Ben Casparius | Alex Vesia

New York Yankees – Inheriting a runner on third with two outs, Luke Weaver induced a game-ending Josh Smith pop-out and recorded his sixth save, throwing two pitches. He’s been scoreless in his last five appearances and has posted consecutive one-out saves. He owns a 0.58 WHIP with 22 strikeouts versus six walks (21.6 K-BB%) through 20.2 innings.

Ian Hamilton gave up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk during two-thirds of the ninth.
Devin Williams navigated around Wyatt Langford’s one-out double and a wild pitch while striking out two for his fourth hold.
Mark Leiter Jr. tossed 1.1 scoreless frames and recorded two strikeouts.

Hierarchy Remains: Luke Weaver | Devin Williams | Fernando Cruz

San Francisco Giants – Closing a one-run win over the Royals, Ryan Walker notched his ninth save, retiring the 4-5-6 lineup pocket in order on eight pitches (62.5 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s converted a save in his last two appearances and is riding a modest four-game scoreless streak. He’s posted a 1.28 WHIP with 16 strikeouts versus seven walks (11.5 K-BB%) through 18 innings.

Camilo Doval let his only inherited runner score on a Bobby Witt Jr. RBI single and recorded a strikeout over two-thirds scoreless in the eighth for his seventh hold.
Kyle Harrison worked 1.1 innings, giving up a hit and an earned run while striking out two for his first hold.
Randy Rodríguez secured his fourth hold, walking one and striking out three in a scoreless sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Ryan Walker | Camilo Doval | Tyler Rogers

Tampa Bay Rays -After losing yesterday, Manuel Rodríguez benefited from a walk-off rally and recorded his first win. He worked a scoreless top of the ninth, yielding a hit, striking out one on 12 pitches (58.3 Strike%), and induced one whiff.

Pete Fairbanks tossed a scoreless eighth, keeping the game tied, allowing a hit, and striking out two against the Astros’ 4-5-6-7 hitters.
Garrett Cleavinger walked one and struck out two during a scoreless seventh.
Edwin Uceta retired the side and recorded two strikeouts in the sixth.

Hierarchy: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Mason Montgomery

Toronto Blue Jays – Nailing down his tenth save, Jeff Hoffman fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded one strikeout while preserving a combined shutout against San Diego. He threw nine pitches (88.9 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

He has a 1.13 WHIP with 32 strikeouts versus five walks (31.1 K-BB%) across 21.1 innings.

Yariel Rodríguez retired the side and recorded his sixth hold in the eighth. He’s riding a seven-game scoreless streak, during which he has a 0.515 WHIP with a 10:1 K:BB across 9.2 innings.

Brendon Little gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless seventh, securing his ninth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Yimi García | Chad Green

Washington Nationals – Slamming the door on his 15th save, Kyle Finnegan retired the side on ten pitches, all strikes, preserving a two-run win over Atlanta. He faced the 4-5-6 lineup pocket. He has converted six straight save opportunities and been scoreless in five.

Jorge López worked a clean eighth, notching his fourth hold.
Jose A. Ferrer gave up a hit during two-thirds scoreless in the seventh.
Cole Henry recorded his first hold, working a clean combined inning.

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

Quick Hits

Baltimore Orioles: As the “bulk follower,” Chayce McDermott suffered his first loss, allowing four hits, three earned runs, and five walks while striking out two over 4.2 innings. Félix Bautista took over at the bottom of the eighth, his first appearance since May 16, and allowed two hits, including Rhys Hoskin’s solo home run, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the inning. He has allowed at least a run in three consecutive contests.
Cincinnati Reds: Rookie Luis Mey tossed a scoreless bottom of the seventh, giving up a hit, a walk, and a hit batter while striking out one.
Houston Astros: Pressed into action at the bottom of the eighth, Kaleb Ort stranded a runner, keeping the score tied. He returned for the ninth, issuing Christopher Morel a lead-off walk, followed by Brandon Lowe’s pinch-hit double and a game-ending one-out sacrifice fly against Taylor Walls, resulting in his first loss.
Miami Marlins: Taking over a tied game at the top of the sixth, Calvin Faucher allowed five hits, some with low exit velocities, six earned runs, and a walk without recording an out, resulting in his second loss. Lake Bachar let both inherited runners score, allowing three hits and two earned runs with a strikeout in the sixth.
St. Louis Cardinals: Entering a tied game at the top of the eighth, Kyle Leahy issued a walk and induced an inning-ending lineout. During the ninth, he allowed Zach McKinstry’s lead-off single and Riley Greene’s go-ahead RBI double, then retired the next three batters, resulting in his first loss.

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Statistical Credits: