Monkey Bytes | April 30

There are very few dull moments in the high-leverage ecosystem, and even though Tuesday’s 14-game slate only yielded four wins by relievers and four saves, usage patterns by multiple teams created ripple effects for fantasy managers. Relief pitchers also suffered three losses and two blown saves, though one resulted in a walk-off win. Today’s takeaways feature a return to normalcy in Cleveland, a rough night for a Tigers’ reliever, and a Brewers’ update.

Three Takeaways

(1) Clase’s back: Maybe not in the fantasy manager’s good graces yet, but Stephen Vogt never wavered in supporting his support for his reliever. Last night, Emmanuel Clase pitched a scoreless top of the ninth, giving up Ty France’s one-out single. Clase picked up his fourth win courtesy of a walk-off home run at the bottom of the inning. He threw 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

Cade Smith worked around a hit and a walk while striking out two at the top of the eighth. He entered against the 8-9-1 lineup pocket and threw 22 pitches (50 Strike%) with four whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). It appears the leverage ladder has Clase back on top of the pecking order, confirmed by Vogt:

Adjusted Hierarchy: Emmanuel Clase | Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

(2) Vest regresses: Riding an 11-game scoreless streak and only allowing three hits across his first 12 appearances, spanning 12 innings, Will Vest entered his outing in Houston with a 0.58 WHIP, a 23.3 K-BB percentage, and a 2.52 SIERA versus a 0.75 ERA. Not only did he take over at the bottom of the sixth with two runners in Houston but he let both inherited runners score on Yainer Diaz’s single and another hit before producing an inning-ending groundout. He returned for the seventh, and his struggles with contact continued, allowing three more hits, resulting in three earned runs and a walk, getting tagged with his first blown save. Here is his pitch illustrator displaying his results from this game:

After this meltdown, he has a 1.00 WHIP with a 2.77 ERA, a 2.97 SIERA, and a 1.41 xERA, all respectable numbers. His 15.4 swinging strike percentage and 67.6 percent contact rate allowed represent career bests. However, adding a reliever with Detroit comes with inherent risk based on how A.J. Hinch will deploy him daily.

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

*= match-up-based approach

(3) What’s brewing in Milwaukee? In order of appearance, Abner Uribe allowed Miguel Vargas’ one-out single and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless bottom of the seventh, posting his seventh hold. He threw 13 pitches (11 strikes – 84.6 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%).

Craig Yoho fired a clean eighth, striking out one on 18 pitches (13 strikes – 72.2 Strike%) with three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%).

Joel Payamps retired the side and struck out one, closing a five-run win over the White Sox. Trevor Megill was not needed in this match-up, but it’s unclear when planning how saves may accrue if he misses time or gets removed from the role. Last year, Uribe opened the season as the preferred save option, but struggled with command and was demoted from the role and the majors. Yoho has an arsenal similar to Devin Williams, and with more experience, may prove capable in save situations. It’s all speculative at this point, but a situation fantasy players should monitor in May.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for April 30

  • Jordan Romano (PHI): If José Alvarado faces the top of the Nationals’ lineup before the ninth, Romano could garner the vulture save chance. 
  • Tayler Scott (HOU): Hader and Abreu have pitched in consecutive games. 

Doubleheader Plays

  • Cincinnati Reds: Preferred vulture target: Graham Ashcraft; YOLO – Alexis Díaz
  • St. Louis Cardinals: Preferred vulture target: Kyle Leahy

Vulture Save Stashes for May 1

  • Hunter Gaddis (CLE): If Clase and Smith pitch today, it will be back-to-back contests. 
  • John Schreiber (KC): If Estévez and Erceg pitch today, it’s consecutive appearances. 

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Tuesday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Houston Astros

Taking over at the top of the ninth with a four-run lead, Josh Hader allowed two hits, including Gleyber Torres’ two-run home run, and recorded a strikeout. He threw 16 pitches (11 strikes – 68.8 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%).

This snapped his 11-game scoreless streak. He has 0.80 WHIP with 20 strikeouts versus three walks (29.8 K-BB%) through 15 innings.

  • Bryan Abreu navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
  • Tayler Scott notched his second hold, firing a clean seventh and striking out two.
  • Bennett Sousa was awarded his first win, logging 1.2 scoreless frames, yielding a hit, and striking out three. 

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bryan King

Kansas City Royals

Preserving a two-run lead, Carlos Estévez worked around a one-out hit and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless ninth, converting his eighth save. He faced the Rays’ 7-8-9-1 hitters and threw 17 pitches (10 strikes – 58.8 Strike%) without a whiff.

He’s been scoreless in three straight and seven of his last eight. He’s posted a 1.071 WHIP with 12 strikeouts against nine walks (5 K-BB%) through 14 innings.

  • Lucas Erceg navigated around two hits while striking out one for a scoreless eighth, securing his ninth hold.
  • Angel Zerpa notched his first hold, giving up a hit and striking out two in a scoreless seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | Daniel Lynch IV

Minnesota Twins

Summoned at the bottom of the ninth during a tied game, Louis Varland suffered his second loss, serving up Kyle Manzardo’s walk-off home run. Jhoan Durán fired a clean bottom of the eighth and recorded two strikeouts against the Guardians’ 1-2-3 hitters. He threw 13 pitches (8 strikes – 61.5 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%).

  • Griffin Jax gave up a hit and recorded two strikeouts during a scoreless seventh, throwing 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) with four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%).
  • Brock Stewart tossed a scoreless sixth, walking and striking out one. 

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Louis Varland | Griffin Jax

Philadelphia Phillies

It was part pitch placement and part shoddy defense, handing Orion Kerkering his third blown save. It began with CJ Abrams’ one-out single, followed by James Wood’s double, though Johan Rojas took a bad route, scoring an earned run, and a Trea Turner error put two runners on. After inducing a strikeout, Kerkering allowed Nate Lowe’s go-ahead three-run home run and finished with three hits, four runs (one earned), and two strikeouts. However, a walk-off rally awarded him his third win.

José Alvarado matched up with the 3-4-5 hitters at the top of the eighth and navigated around two hits and a batter reaching via fielder’s choice by striking out the next three for his third hold. He threw 23 pitches (17 strikes – 73.9 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (21.7 SwStr%).

Matt Strahm let one of two inherited runners score, allowing a hit and striking out in one-third of the seventh, getting his fourth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: *José Alvarado | *Orion Kerkering | Jordan Romano

*= floating closer concept

San Diego Padres

Slamming the door on his National League-leading 11th save, Robert Suarez only needed six pitches against the Giants’ 5-6-7 lineup pocket. He threw four strikes (66.7 Strike%) without a whiff, lowering his WHIP to 0.54 with 14 strikeouts against two walks (26.1 K-BB%) across 13 innings.

  • Jason Adam retired the side and recorded two strikeouts for his tenth hold at the top of the eighth.
  • Adrian Morejon worked a clean seventh, striking out two and recording his third hold.
  • Jeremiah Estrada let his only inherited runner score, giving up two hits and an earned run on his ledger while striking out one for his sixth hold.

Seattle Mariners

Securing his American League-leading 11th save, Andrés Muñoz fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded one strikeout while preserving a two-run win over the Angels. He threw 12 pitches (83.3 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (25 SwStr%).

He owns a 0.73 WHIP with 19 strikeouts against six walks (24.1 K-BB%) through 15 scoreless frames.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Trent Thornton | Gabe Speier

Washington Nationals

Called upon with a one-run lead at the bottom of the ninth, Kyle Finnegan allowed Alec Bohm’s lead-off single and walked Bryson Stott. He recorded his first out on Max Kepler’s flyout, but Bohm tagged and went to third, followed by Stott’s stolen base. Finnegan produced a shallow flyout by Johan Rojas, but Bohm scored the game-tying run, and then Stott scored on a wild pitch, handing Finnegan his first loss and second blown save. He threw 19 pitches (10 strikes – 52.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

He has a 1.54 WHIP with 13 strikeouts versus seven walks (12.5 K-BB%) in 11.2 innings. After converting his first nine saves, Finnegan has not converted his last two save opportunities.

  • Lucas Sims stranded a runner while recording two outs, one via strikeout in the eighth.
  • Jose A. Ferrer gave up three hits and two earned runs in one-third of the eighth.
  • Jorge López fired a clean seventh, striking out two, and has turned in three consecutive clean appearances.

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

Quick Hits

  • Colorado Rockies: Matched up against Atlanta’s 8-9-1 lineup pocket at the top of the eighth, down by five runs, Seth Halvorsen gave up Eli White’s lead-off double and Austin Riley’s two-out RBI single. He has a 1.54 WHIP with nine strikeouts across 11.2 innings with one save in two opportunities.
  • Los Angeles Dodgers: As the “bulk follower,” Matt Sauer recorded his first win. He tossed five innings, allowing five hits and an earned run while striking out four.
  • New York Mets: Getting back on track after allowing three earned runs in his previous outing, José Buttó logged two scoreless frames, walking one and striking out four against Arizona in a non-save capacity. He threw 29 pitches (18 strikes – 62.1 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (17.2 SwStr%).
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Appearing during a loss, David Bednar gave up Seiya Suzuki’s lead-off triple and Carson Kelly’s RBI single before inducing a flyout, followed by an inning-ending double play groundout. He threw 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) and induced one whiff.
  • Texas Rangers: Logging three innings during a lopsided contest, Dane Dunning recorded his first save of his career. He gave up four hits, two earned runs on Shea Langeliers’ home run, and two walks while striking out three. He threw 52 pitches (31 strikes – 59.6 Strike%) and produced five whiffs.

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Monkey Bytes | April 29

In Monday’s eight-game slate, relievers recorded two wins and six saves while suffering only one loss and one blown save. Today’s takeaways focus on a Yankees’ reliever turning in a much-needed clean appearance, a breakout performance by a Reds’ reliever, and what to do with Miami’s leverage ladder.

Three Takeaways

(1) Progress for Devin: Taking over at the bottom of the eighth with his team down by a run, Devin Williams retired the side and recorded one strikeout facing Baltimore’s 5-6-7 lineup pocket. He threw 14 pitches (9 strikes – 64.3 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%):

His “Airbender” had better shape and with improved command of his four-seam fastball, he will find his past form:

In Bryan Hoch’s game recap for MLB.com, he shared Aaron Boone’s thoughts about his struggling closer, and eventual return to the role:

Until then:

Hierarchy Remains: Luke Weaver | Fernando Cruz | Mark Leiter Jr.

(2) Graham’s crackling slider: During an eventual two-run win over St. Louis, Graham Ashcraft fired a clean seventh, striking out the side on 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) and generating five whiffs (35.7 SwStr%). It was his most dominant outing as a reliever.

Four of his five whiffs resulted from his slider, which has a 27.3 swinging strike percentage after this appearance, with a 61.5 K-BB percentage and a .069 weighted on-base average (wOBA). Overall, the transition has been going well for Ashcraft, but in this contest, he leaned into his slider for the first time:

Overall, he’s posted a 20.6 hard hit percent rate allowed and a .218 expected batting average. He’s also produced strong quality of contact results:

  • 5.9 pop-up percentage plus 11.8 weak contact = 17.7 percent poor contact induced
  • Zero solid contact plus 2.7 barrel percentage = 2.9 percent good contact allowed

Those with room for a save stash should make room for Ashcraft; his time as the Reds’ closer gets expedited with more outings like this. His team’s hierarchy will be updated below.

(3) Is there fantasy value in Miami’s bullpen? Through 28 games, the Marlins have converted five of nine save opportunities, with Calvin Faucher (two) and Jesús Tinoco (two) tied for the team lead in saves. First-year manager Clayton McCullough has maintained he will mix and match during the late innings by lineup pockets and not use his relievers in defined roles. This caps the fantasy ceiling for either reliever. Though there will be bursts of production, with Miami only projected for 60 more wins, what type of volume can fantasy managers mine? When viewing the underlying numbers, and Fangraphs’ Win Probability Added results, if forced to choose, we lean toward Tinoco:

In last night’s game against the Dodgers, Ronny Henriquez took over at the bottom of the tenth with a one-run lead but was tagged with his first loss and a blown save, issuing a walk, recording an out on a sacrifice bunt, followed by Tommy Edman’s walk-off, two-RBI single. Calvin Faucher worked a scoreless ninth, walking one and striking out three while facing the Dodgers’ 3-4-5-6 hitters. Jesús Tinoco navigated around a lead-off single for a scoreless eighth, including strikeouts of Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts.

Updated Hierarchy: *Jesús Tinoco | *Calvin Faucher | Anthony Bender

For the save streamers, a light forecast:

Vulture Save Options for April 29

  • Yennier Cano (BAL): Bautista pitched last night, so he will not be considered available tonight until he appears in consecutive games. 
  • Grant Holman (ATH): Miller and Ferguson have pitched in consecutive games. Justin Sterner could also be in the mix, but Holman has been in save situations previously. 

Vulture Save Stashes for April 30

  • Reed Garrett (NYM): The Mets have been cautious with Edwin Díaz’s usage patterns; if he pitches tonight, he may be unavailable tomorrow, especially with an elevated pitch count. 
  • Dylan Lee (ATL): If Iglesias and Hernández pitch tonight, it will be back-to-back games in Coors. 

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Monday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Atlanta Braves

Closing out a three-run win at Coors, Raisel Iglesias allowed a two-out double and recorded a game-ending strikeout for his fifth save. He threw nine pitches (88.9 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

This snapped a two-game streak, allowing at least a run for the veteran closer. He owns a 1.091 WHIP with 10 strikeouts against two walks (18.2 K-BB%) through 11 innings.

  • Daysbel Hernández notched his fourth hold, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless bottom of the eighth.
  • Pierce Johnson retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the seventh, securing his second hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Raisel Iglesias | Daysbel Hernández | Dylan Lee

Baltimore Orioles

Entering a one-run contest against the Yankees’ top-of-the-lineup, Félix Bautista retired the side and recorded two strikeouts en route to his fourth save. He threw 14 pitches (8 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

He’s been scoreless in his last six games and converted all four saves. He’s posted a 1.38 WHIP with 10 strikeouts versus six walks (11.5 K-BB%) in eighth innings.

  • Gregory Soto stranded a runner in the seventh, then struggled in the eighth, allowing three hits and two earned runs while striking out two for his sixth hold.
  • Yennier Cano allowed two hits and an unearned run during his one-third of the seventh.
  • Keegan Akin retired all four batters, striking out three after entering at the top of the sixth.

Cincinnati Reds

Locking down his eighth save, Emilio Pagán retired the side on seven pitches (85.7 Strike%) without a whiff, preserving a two-run win over the Cardinals.

He faced the 2-3-4 lineup pocket and has converted his last four save opportunities. He has a 0.49 WHIP with 14 strikeouts against two walks (24 K-BB%) through 14.1 innings.

  • Tony Santillan notched his eighth hold, tossing a clean top of the eighth and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Houston Astros

Preserving a three-run win, Josh Hader worked around Dillon Dingler’s two-out double with a game-ending strikeout for his eighth save. He threw 14 pitches (85.7 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (35.7 SwStr%) while recording two strikeouts.

He has a 0.71 WHIP with 19 strikeouts versus two walks (30.7 K-BB%) through 14 innings.

  • Kaleb Ort allowed a hit, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one in the eighth.
  • Bryan Abreu stranded a runner and retired his only batter via strikeout for his ninth hold.
  • Bryan King issued a walk and struck out one in two-thirds scoreless of the seventh for his eighth hold.
  • Steven Okert collected his first win, firing a clean sixth and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Bryan Abreu | Bryan King

Los Angeles Dodgers

Despite letting the “place” runner score on an RBI double, Kirby Yates emerged with his third win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the tenth. He allowed one hit and an unearned run on six pitches (66.7 Strike%) without a whiff.

Tanner Scott tossed a scoreless ninth, giving up a lead-off single, inducing a double play groundout, and recording a strikeout on 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) with three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%).

He has a 0.93 WHIP with 14 strikeouts (25.9 K-BB%) through 15 innings.

  • Evan Phillips retired the side in the seventh.
  • Anthony Banda suffered his first blown save, letting both inherited runners score after issuing a walk and serving up a game-tying Dane Myers grand slam at the top of the sixth. He finished with a hit, two earned runs, and a walk during his 1.2 innings.

Hierarchy Remains: *Tanner Scott | *Kirby Yates | Evan Phillips

*= match-up-based with a preferred save share

New York Mets

Not all saves are converted equally, and José Ureña gets credit for his first this season and the sixth of his career. He logged three innings, allowing seven hits, five earned runs, and a walk while striking out three during a lopsided win in Washington.

  • Max Kranick worked a scoreless bottom of the sixth, yielding a hit and striking out one on 12 pitches (91.7 Strike%) with one whiff.

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Reed Garrett | Huascar Brazobán

The Athletics

Securing his ninth save, Mason Miller navigated around Marcus Semien’s lead-off walk with a groundout, a strikeout, and a game-ending strikeout, preserving a one-run win in Texas. He threw 16 pitches (50 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%).

He’s appeared in consecutive games and three of the last four. He’s recorded 22 strikeouts against two walks (50 K-BB%) and a 0.727 WHIP across 11 innings.

  • Tyler Ferguson retired the side for his sixth hold at the bottom of the eighth.
  • Mitch Spence stranded a runner and logged 1.1 scoreless innings, yielding a hit and a walk, notching his second hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: Mason Miller | Tyler Ferguson | Justin Sterner

Quick Hit

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: Per this post by Damon Allred of Arizona Sports, Kevin Ginkel will be activated before tonight’s game, with Drey Jameson being optioned as the according move. Ginkel has resided in Torey Lovullo’s circle of trust and could be a factor in save situations soon with a strong return from his rehab outings:

Updated Hierarchy: Justin Martinez | Shelby Miller | Kevin Ginkel

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Statistical Credits:

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BrooksBaseball.net

Closer Monkey Updated Rankings | 4.28.25

Understanding that ranking relievers can become outdated within hours, Closer Monkey’s updated rankings fuse in-season results with rest-of-the-season potential for a number often worth debating. This week, we are not only providing saves, SOLDS, and holds rankings.

Relievers on the Rise

  • Luke Weaver (NYY): Taking over the closer role while Devin Williams works in lower-leveraged appearances, “Dream Weaver” jumps up our rankings. Will he cede the role? Time will tell.
  • Emilio Pagán (CIN): Though I remain wary of his SIERA and xERA, Pagán has taken over the closer role in Cincinnati and converted seven of eight save chances this season.
  • Will Vest (DET): Has recorded three saves since April 19 and has been scoreless in his last 11 appearances with 12 strikeouts against four strikeouts.

Closer Concerns

  • Justin Martinez (ARI): Shaky command with decreased velocity plus fatigue may create save opportunities for his teammates soon.
  • Edwin Díaz (NYM): It’s more about durability than results, though his strike percentage (58.7 percent) and first-strike rates (45.1 percent) could use some improvement; this may decrease his 1.25 WHIP through his first 12 innings.

Updated Top 40 for Saves

RankRelievers
1Mason Miller
2Andrés Muñoz
3Jeff Hoffman
4Josh Hader
5Robert Suarez
6Tanner Scott
7Raisel Iglesias
8Edwin Díaz
9Ryan Helsley
10José Alvarado
11Kenley Jansen
12Luke Weaver
13Kyle Finnegan
14Jhoan Durán
15Emilio Pagán
16Emmanuel Clase
17Carlos Estévez
18Aroldis Chapman
19Ryan Pressly
20Pete Fairbanks
21Will Vest
22Ryan Walker
23Luke Jackson
24Trevor Megill
25Félix Bautista
26Justin Martinez
27Camilo Doval
28Cade Smith
29Justin Slaten
30Dennis Santana
31David Bednar
32Tommy Kahnle
33Kirby Yates
34Calvin Faucher
35Seth Halvorsen
36Lucas Erceg
37Porter Hodge
38Jesús Tinoco
39Jason Adam
40Yennier Cano

Just Missed

  • Jordan Romano (PHI)
  • Edwin Uceta (TB)

Stash Candidates

  • Kevin Ginkel (ARI)
  • Steven Wilson (CHW)
  • Graham Ashcraft (CIN)

Updated Top 75 for SOLDS

RankReliever
1Mason Miller
2Andrés Muñoz
3Jeff Hoffman
4Jason Adam
5Josh Hader
6Tanner Scott
7Luke Weaver
8Robert Suarez
9Tyler Rogers
10José Alvarado
11Cade Smith
12Aroldis Chapman
13Lucas Erceg
14Bryan Abreu
15Robert Garcia
16Raisel Iglesias
17Justin Slaten
18Jhoan Durán
19Jeremiah Estrada
20Emilio Pagán
21Kyle Finnegan
22Kirby Yates
23Edwin Díaz
24Ryan Helsley
25Kenley Jansen
26Ryan Walker
27Ryan Pressly
28Edwin Uceta
29Emmanuel Clase
30Yennier Cano
31Pete Fairbanks
32Camilo Doval
33Phil Maton
34Yimi García
35Justin Martinez
36Carlos Estévez
37Fernando Cruz
38Griffin Jax
39Will Vest
40Porter Hodge
41Chris Martin
42Tony Santillan
43Hunter Gaddis
44Tommy Kahnle
45Trevor Megill
46Reed Garrett
47Shelby Miller
48Luke Jackson
49Kyle Leahy
50Brendon Little
51Tim Herrin
52Mason Montgomery
53Alex Vesia
54Mark Leiter Jr.
55Bryan King
56Orion Kerkering
57Matt Strahm
58Tyler Holton
59Tyler Ferguson
60Jalen Beeks
61Dennis Santana
62Félix Bautista
63Louis Varland
64JoJo Romero
65Daysbel Hernández
66David Bednar
67Abner Uribe
68Randy Rodríguez
69Seranthony Domínguez
70Julian Merryweather
71Dylan Lee
72Tim Hill
73Chad Green
74Huascar Brazobán
75Gabe Speier

Relievers on the Rise

  • Kyle Leahy (STL): He’s rising in his bullpen hierarchy and recorded a hold in three of his previous four outings. Through 14 games, he owns a 0.54 WHIP with 16 strikeouts versus four walks (20.3 K-BB%) across 16.2 innings.
  • Reed Garrett (NYM): With A.J. Minter on the injured list and Ryne Stanek struggling, Garrett takes over as next in line for the Mets leverage ladder. Increased volume and opportunity equals more fantasy value in this format.

Top 50 for Holds

RankReliever
1Jason Adam
2Tyler Rogers
3Kirby Yates
4Lucas Erceg
5Cade Smith
6Robert Garcia
7Tim Herrin
8Edwin Uceta
9Chris Martin
10Porter Hodge
11Tony Santillan
12Jeremiah Estrada
13Justin Slaten
14Yimi García
15Shelby Miller
16Hunter Gaddis
17Alex Vesia
18Mark Leiter Jr.
19Yennier Cano
20Reed Garrett
21Phil Maton
22Fernando Cruz
23Bryan King
24Mason Montgomery
25Griffin Jax
26Louis Varland
27Jose A. Ferrer
28Camilo Doval
29Tommy Kahnle
30Brendon Little
31Tyler Ferguson
32Daybel Hernández
33Julian Merryweather
34Tim Hill
35Abner Uribe
36Jalen Beeks
37Orion Kerkering
38Graham Ashcraft
39Gabe Speier
40Huascar Brazobán
41Randy Rodríguez
42Seranthony Domínguez
43Jared Koenig
44Keegan Akin
45Matt Strahm
46Dylan Lee
47Chad Green
48Tyler Holton
49Max Kranick
50Dennis Santana

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Monkey Bytes | April 28

Sunday began with limited-leverage events of interest and finished with a flurry during the late afternoon contests. Relievers recorded six wins and five saves while suffering four losses with zero blown saves. Arizona used Justin Martinez on consecutive days, Seattle’s closer moved into a tie for the major league lead in saves, and the Yankees made a temporary change at closer, which are featured in our takeaways.

Three Takeaways

(1) J-Mart works in consecutive games, but: Working with reduced velocity and spotty command, Justin Martinez held on for his third save, but it was a traffic-induced outing. It began by hitting Nick Allen with a pitch, followed by a walk, before inducing a double play groundout by Austin Riley. However, Marcell Ozuna produced an RBI double with two outs, and Matt Olson walked before a game-ending Ozzie Albies flyout. Martinez finished with a hit, an earned run, a hit batter, and two walks while throwing 26 pitches (15 strikes – 57.7 Strike%) with one whiff.

His 0.80 WHIP comes with 11 strikeouts against four walks (17.9 K-BB%) across ten innings. His hold on save situations remains shaky, especially seeing his maximum velocity with his sinker in this contest was 98.2 miles per hour, reflected in this chart from Statcast, displaying his average velocity by appearance this season:

While his indicators do not portend a collapse, he’s produced a 61.3 strike percentage with an 11.3 percent swinging strike rate. Monitor his average pitch velocity and usage patterns closely this week. If Kevin Ginkel gets activated for the team’s road trip, he may factor into save situations quickly based on being in Torey Lovullo’s circle of trust. Those seeking saves on the wire should stash him now, just in case. For now:

Hierarchy Remains: Justin Martinez | Shelby Miller | Jalen Beeks

(2) Muñoz remains scoreless: Calming a tense situation, Andrés Muñoz nailed down his American League-leading tenth save with a clean ninth while striking out during a one-run win over Miami. He threw nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff (11.1 SwStr%).

He remains scoreless through 14 innings with 18 strikeouts against six walks (23.5 K-BB%) and a 0.79 WHIP. His strong start has flown under the radar after he struggled with a back injury last season. He’s produced an 18 percent swinging strike rate, tied for 12th best in the majors with Jeff Hoffman, and a 59.8 contact allowed percentage, ranking sixth best among his peers. The best news is that he will receive reinforcements when the team activates Matt Brash. Muñoz tied Robert Suarez for the most saves, requiring four or more outs last year. Keeping him fresh through one-inning outings ensures better results for the talented closer.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Trent Thornton | Gabe Speier

(3) D-Will demoted as the closer: It’s one thing when we think a change may occur and another when a team announces the switch. Aaron Boone named Luke Weaver the Yankees’ interim closer, while Devin Williams will work in lower-leveraged outings until he’s ready for save situations from Bill Ladson’s post for MLB.com:

During the second game of Sunday’s doubleheader, Luke Weaver was warming for the save opportunity, but an eighth-inning home run extended the lead to four runs, making it a non-save appearance. Weaver retired the side and recorded a strikeout on 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) without a whiff. He will remain the closer until further notice:

Before Weaver entered, Fernando Cruz allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless eighth, securing his fourth hold. Mark Leiter Jr. notched his fifth hold, striking out the side in the seventh. Tim Hill collected his third win, giving up a hit during a scoreless sixth.

Updated Hierarchy: Luke Weaver | Fernando Cruz | Mark Leiter Jr.

With only eight games on tap today, it’s a light forecast for vulture saves:

Vulture Save Options for April 28

  • Cade Smith (CLE): How much longer Emmanuel Clase works in lower leveraged outings remains to be seen, but fantasy managers may be able to squeeze another save or two from Smith this week. 
  • Reed Garrett (NYM): If Edwin Díaz is not available, Garrett will be in line for the save, but this bullpen is running on fumes. Plus, if Edwin pitches, you will have Garrett for tomorrow. 

Vulture Save Stashes for April 29

  • Mitch Spence (ATH): If Miller and Ferguson pitch tonight, he could get a multi-inning save chance on Tuesday. 

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Sunday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Chicago Cubs

Forced into action at the top of the tenth with the bases loaded, Caleb Thielbar retired Bryce Harper via strikeout, stranding all three runners. However, the damage had been done; Julian Merryweather allowed a hit, two runs (one earned), and three walks over his two-thirds of the tenth, resulting in his first loss.

  • Ryan Pressly worked a scoreless ninth and issued a walk while facing the Phillies’ 2-3-4-5 hitters. This extended his scoreless streak to six games, during which he’s recorded three strikeouts against one walk with a 0.67 WHIP through six innings.
  • Porter Hodge also worked a scoreless eighth, allowing one walk. He owns a modest four-game scoreless streak.

Hierarchy Remains: Ryan Pressly | Porter Hodge | Julian Merryweather

Chicago White Sox

Entering at the bottom of the tenth with a one-run lead, Jordan Leasure suffered his second loss and a second blown save, allowing a one-out walk-off Luis Urías two-run home run. He threw six pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff (16.7 SwStr%) while striking out one.

  • Steven Wilson tossed a scoreless ninth, walking and striking out one.
  • Cam Booser fired a clean eighth, striking out one.

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

*= closer-by-committee

Los Angeles Dodgers

Pressed into action at the top of the second, Ben Casparius worked 3.2 scoreless frames, allowing two hits and striking out five while collecting his third win.

  • Alex Vesia notched his ninth hold, giving up a hit and striking out two in two-thirds scoreless innings.
  • Luis García stranded a runner, gave up a hit, and struck out two in two-thirds scoreless.
  • Yoendrys Gómez recorded his first career save, logging three scoreless frames, scattering four hits, and striking out four.

Hierarchy Remains: *Tanner Scott | *Kirby Yates | Evan Phillips

*= match-up-based with a preferred save share

New York Mets

Handed a one-run lead at the top of the ninth, Ryne Stanek suffered his second blown save in the last three days. His outing began with Alex Call’s lead-off double, followed by Keibert Ruiz’s groundout, moving him to third, then CJ Abrams singled in the game-tying run. Stanek walked James Wood and covered first base late on a grounder to Pete Alonso, and the throwing error scored the game-winning run. He gets charged with two hits, two runs (one earned), and a walk during one-third of an inning.

  • Huascar Brazobán navigated around a hit, a hit batter, and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless eighth for his fourth hold.
  • José Buttó let his only inherited runner score, allowing three hits, including a three-run home run, and struck out one in two-thirds of the seventh. 

There have been some heavy usage patterns over the last seven days:

But Edwin Díaz needing two days in between outings after the 23rd and not being available yesterday makes it even thinner during leverage events. His availability and effectiveness should be monitored closely. With A.J. Minter landing on the 15-day injured list, Reed Garrett and Max Kranick may earn larger leverage roles.

Updated Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | Reed Garrett | Huascar Brazobán

Philadelphia Phillies

It only took 28 games this season, but Jordan Romano recorded his first save for the Phillies, working a clean bottom of the tenth against the Cubs’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

José Alvarado collected his third win, tossing a clean ninth and striking out one on 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) with one whiff. He owns a 1.10 WHIP with 18 strikeouts versus two walks (28.5 K-BB%) across 13.2 innings.

  • Orion Kerkering retired the side in the seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: *José Alvarado | *Orion Kerkering | Jordan Romano

*= floating closer concept

San Francisco Giants

Facing Texas’ 6-7-8 hitters, Camilo Doval fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts on 10 pitches (90 Strike%) with three whiffs (30 SwStr%).

He collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He’s riding an eight-game scoreless streak with eight strikeouts against two walks (24 K-BB%) and a 0.40 WHIP across 7.2 innings.

  • Hayden Birdsong logged three scoreless frames, scattering three hits and striking out five. He’s recorded six scoreless appearances, recording at least six outs this season.

Hierarchy Remains: *Ryan Walker | *Camilo Doval | Tyler Rogers

*= closer-by-committee

Tampa Bay Rays

Slamming the door on his sixth save, Pete Fairbanks retired the side and preserved a two-run win in San Diego. He threw 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff against the 4-5-6 lineup pocket.

He’s posted a 1.32 WHIP with ten strikeouts versus six walks (8.5 K-BB%) through 11.1 innings.

  • Edwin Uceta stranded a runner in the seventh and retired all four batters, two via strikeout, for his fourth hold.
  • Mason Montgomery walked one and struck out one over two-thirds of the seventh, securing his third hold.
  • Manuel Rodriguez worked a scoreless sixth and walked one, recording his fourth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Mason Montgomery

Texas Rangers

From the “you cannot make this up” department, Luke Jackson suffered his third loss on Heliot Ramos’ infield single on his errant throw to first, followed by Jake Burger overthrowing third on the same play, scoring him on a Little League home run. Jackson gets a hit and an unearned run on his line. He has a 1.22 WHIP with eight strikeouts versus three walks (11.1 K-BB%) across 10.2 innings.

  • Chris Martin retired both batters in the eighth, one via strikeout. Robert Garcia allowed a hit over two-thirds of scoreless combined innings.
  • Caleb Boushley worked two scoreless frames despite hitting a batter.

Hierarchy Remains: Luke Jackson | Chris Martin | Robert Garcia

The Athletics

Despite allowing two hits and an unearned run at the top of the tenth, Grant Holman collected his second win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. Mason Miller fired a clean ninth, striking out the side on 11 pitches (90.9 Strike%), generating five whiffs (45.5 SwStr%).

He’s posted a 0.70 WHIP with 21 strikeouts against one walk (55.5 K-BB%) through ten innings.

  • Tyler Ferguson worked around a walk for a scoreless eighth.
  • Justin Sterner navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Mason Miller | Tyler Ferguson | Justin Sterner

Quick Hits

  • Boston Red Sox: Recording his first game-finished of the season, Liam Hendriks closed out a ten-run win in Cleveland with a scoreless bottom of the ninth, issuing a walk and striking out two. He threw 18 pitches (11 strikes – 61.1 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He has a 2.00 WHIP with four strikeouts versus four walks through four innings.
  • San Diego Padres: In a non-save capacity, Robert Suarez had his 11-game scoreless streak since the start of the season, allowing two hits, including Chandler Simpson’s RBI single, and recording a strikeout. He threw 18 pitches (13 strikes – 72.2 Strike%) without a whiff. He has a 0.58 WHIP with 14 strikeouts (27.9 K-BB%) in 12 innings. It may have been the situation, but his velocity was down in this appearance:
  • Washington Nationals: Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Jorge López collected his third win after stranding two runners while throwing five pitches (80 Strike%) and retiring Brandon Nimmo on an inning-ending groundout, his only batter faced.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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Statistical Credits:

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BrooksBaseball.net

Monkey Bytes | April 27

Saturday featured a 16-game slate despite a postponement in New York. Relievers recorded seven wins, though two were accompanied by a blown save designation, and converted seven saves. They also suffered six losses and four blown saves. Cleveland deployed its closer in the eighth inning with a lead, A.J. Hinch has fantasy players scrambling again, and a walk-off home run in St. Louis are our topics in today’s takeaways.

Three Takeaways

(1) Clase in the eighth, Cade in the ninth: During a one-run win in Game 1, Cade Smith took over at the top of the ninth with a one-run lead, giving up a lead-off Cedanne Rafaela single, followed by walking Jarren Duran, before retiring the next three hitters for a scoreless ninth, and his third save. He threw 18 pitches (11 strikes – 61.1 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%) while recording a strikeout.

He has a five-game scoreless streak and converted three consecutive saves in as many appearances. Emmanuel Clase fired a clean top of the eighth, facing the Red Sox 6-7-8 hitters, and recorded two strikeouts on 14 pitches (9 strikes – 64.3 Strike%) with three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%) for his first hold.

He was confident and commanded his arsenal well in this outing. After the game, Stephen Vogt explained how Clase would be used, though it seems temporary, in the game recap by Tim Stebbins of MLB.com:

For now:

Updated Hierarchy: *Emmanuel Clase | *Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis

*= closer-by-committee

(2) Invest in Vest: Taking over at the top of the eighth with a one-run lead during Game 1, Will Vest issued a walk before inducing an inning-ending flyout. He returned for the ninth, retiring the Orioles’ top of the lineup in order, two via strikeout for his third save over his last four appearances. He threw 33 pitches (19 strikes – 57.6 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (15.2 SwStr%).

He’s posted 14 strikeouts against four walks (23.3 K-BB%) with a 0.583 WHIP through 12 innings. During Game 2, Tommy Kahnle preserved the four-run win with a scoreless ninth, walking and striking out one. For fantasy purposes, Kahnle should be used against left-handed pockets in the late innings, and he’s been used like the highest-leveraged reliever since posting his fourth save, not a closer. Vest represents the primary save share, and meaning he projects for the majority of save chances, but they are not assured since Hinch does not use traditional roles by inning in his leverage machinations.

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

*= match-up-based approach

(3) Megill and contact: Entering a tied game at the bottom of the ninth, Trevor Megill retired Brendan Donovan on a lineout, then served up Nolan Arenado’s walk-off home run, resulting in his second loss.

This snapped a modest three-game scoreless streak. He only threw five pitches (80 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s posted a 1.36 WHIP with nine strikeouts versus four walks (15.6 K-BB%) in 7.1 innings. His current 4.91 ERA has a 3.59 SIERA but a 6.12 xERA, which is quite a chasm between the two indicators. Since xERA uses batted ball data, it makes sense to take this another step. As this chart illustrates, he’s allowing more contact in the strike zone (Z-Contact%), more barrels, and more fly balls, a recipe for disaster during high-leverage events:

Link: https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/1T6Gw/1/

This is not isolated for Megill. Since the start of last season, he’s produced 137 batted ball events, allowing 13 barrels (9.5%), 59 hard hits (43.1%), and 68 flyballs (49.6%). Our hierarchy remains unchanged, but those who can stash Craig Yoho preemptively may benefit; however, any change of the guard in Milwaukee may not occur until mid-May or later.

Hierarchy Remains: Trevor Megill | Abner Uribe | Jared Koenig

For the save streamers, a potentially busy day awaits:

Vulture Save Options for April 27

  • Cade Smith (CLE): With Clase temporarily working in “lower leveraged” situations, Smith remains in line for upcoming save chances. 
  • Camilo Doval (SF): Walker has appeared in consecutive games. 
  • Tony Santillan (CIN): It’s in Coors, but Pagán has pitched in back-to-back contests. 
  • Kyle Leahy (STL): Helsley and Maton have pitched on Friday and Saturday. 
  • José Buttó (NYM): If Díaz gets his workload managed, he will not pitch today. If he does pitch, then you have Buttó for Monday. 
  • Shelby Miller (ARI): If Martinez is deemed “unavailable” again by the staff, he should be in line for the save opportunity. 

Doubleheader Odds

  • New York Yankees: Prime target in a sweep: Luke Weaver; YOLO: Fernando Cruz
  • Toronto Blue Jays: Prime target in a sweep: Yimi García; YOLO: Chad Green

Vulture Save Stashes for April 28

  • Yennier Cano (BAL): If Félix Bautista pitches today, he will be off tomorrow. 

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Saturday.

Closer CliffsNotes

Arizona Diamondbacks

Reserved until the top of the tenth, Justin Martinez suffered his first loss, letting the “place” runner score after throwing a one-out wild pitch. He also issued a walk while facing Atlanta’s 5-6-7-8 hitters, throwing 10 pitches (50 Strike%) without a whiff.

He has a 0.56 WHIP with 11 strikeouts against two walks (27.3 K-BB%) through nine innings but has only appeared in two games since April 18, and we must note the decreased average velocity in this appearance.

  • Drey Jameson escaped with a scoreless top of the ninth despite allowing a hit and two walks.
  • Jalen Beeks was tagged with his first blown save, giving up two hits, three earned runs, and two walks while striking out one in the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Justin Martinez | Shelby Miller | Jalen Beeks

Atlanta Braves

Protecting a one-run lead at the bottom of the tenth, Dylan Lee recorded his first career save, retiring the top of Arizona’s lineup on three consecutive groundouts, throwing 10 pitches (70 Strike%) with one whiff. Raisel Iglesias gets charged with his second blown save and collected his first win after allowing Eugenio Suárez’s game-tying solo home run among his two hits at the bottom of the ninth.

Iglesias threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He owns a 1.10 WHIP with nine strikeouts against two walks (17.5 K-BB%) across ten innings.

  • Daysbel Hernández worked around two walks and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless eighth for his third hold.
  • Scott Blewett retired all four batters, three via strikeout.

Hierarchy Remains: Raisel Iglesias | Daysbel Hernández | Dylan Lee

Cincinnati Reds

Appearing for the third time in four days, Emilio Pagán notched his seventh save, allowing a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out three at Coors. An interesting scoring decision gave him the earned run, awarding Nick Martini an RBI double. Pagán threw 18 pitches (11 strikes – 61.1 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

He’s posted a 0.53 WHIP with 14 strikeouts against two walks (25.5 K-BB%) through 13.1 innings.

  • Alexis Díaz fired a clean bottom of the eighth, striking out one for his second hold.
  • Scott Barlow worked a clean seventh, recording one strikeout and his fourth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Graham Ashcraft

Kansas City Royals

Shutting the door on his seventh save, Carlos Estévez fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout while preserving a combined shutout against the Astros. He threw six pitches, all strikes, and induced one whiff (16.7 SwStr%) while facing the 6-7-8 lineup pocket.

He’s posted a 1.08 WHIP with 11 strikeouts versus nine walks (3.6 K-BB%) in 13 innings.

  • John Schreiber navigated around two hits and struck out one in a scoreless eighth, securing his first hold.
  • Steven Cruz tossed a clean seventh for his second hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Lucas Erceg | Daniel Lynch IV

Los Angeles Dodgers

Capping a late rally and a four-run win, Tanner Scott retired the side and recorded two strikeouts at the top of the ninth against Pittsburgh. He threw 18 pitches (11 strikes – 61.1 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%).

He has a 0.93 WHIP with 13 strikeouts (25.5 K-BB%) over 14 innings.

  • Kirby Yates earned his second win, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
  • Evan Phillips stranded two runners and retired both batters, one via strikeout at the top of the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: *Tanner Scott | *Kirby Yates | Evan Phillips

*= match-up-based with a preferred save share (Scott)

Minnesota Twins

Finishing a four-run win, Jhoan Durán retired the side while facing the Angels’ 3-4-5 hitters on seven pitches (57.1 Strike%) without a whiff. He has a 0.973 WHIP with ten strikeouts against six walks (8.7 K-BB%) across 11.1 innings.

  • Louis Varland fired a clean eighth, striking out two.
  • Griffin Jax allowed a hit and recorded all three outs via strikeout in the seventh. He threw 19 pitches (14 strikes – 73.7 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (31.6 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in his last three while striking out seven of 11 batters (63.6 K%).
  • Brock Stewart notched his second hold, stranding a runner and retiring two while striking out one in the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Durán | Louis Varland | Griffin Jax

New York Mets

Completing a combined shutout and converting his seventh save, Edwin Díaz worked around a one-out walk with three strikeouts in Washington, entering against the 5-6-7 lineup pocket. He threw 22 pitches (45.5 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (22.7 SwStr%).

He’s posted a 1.25 WHIP with 20 strikeouts versus seven walks (25.5 K-BB%) in 12 innings.

  • Max Kranick stranded a runner while retiring both batters in the eighth, one via strikeout, for his second hold.
  • A.J. Minter was credited with his seventh hold, walking one and striking out one, but left his outing with the training staff.
  • Reed Garrett notched his ninth hold, scattering two hits in a scoreless seventh.
  • Danny Young allowed a hit and recorded three strikeouts in a scoreless sixth, securing his fourth hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | José Buttó | Reed Garrett

San Francisco Giants

Despite allowing consecutive singles leading off the top of the ninth, Ryan Walker benefited from a pop-out on a bunt attempt, then bore down, recording consecutive strikeouts against Josh Smith and Joc Pederson. He collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the frame. Walker threw 17 pitches (13 strikes – 76.5 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (23.5 SwStr%). He has a 1.31 WHIP with 12 strikeouts versus two walks (20.4 K-BB%) across 10.2 innings.

  • Tyler Rogers tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit, keeping the game tied.

Hierarchy Remains: *Ryan Walker | *Camilo Doval | Tyler Rogers

*= closer-by-committee

St. Louis Cardinals

Although he suffered his second blown save, giving up Jackson Chourio’s game-tying two-run home run, Ryan Helsley collected his first win on a walk-off at the bottom of the inning.

He allowed two hits and two earned runs on 16 pitches (9 strikes – 56.3 Strike%) without a whiff. He has a 1.60 WHIP with ten strikeouts against eight walks (4.5 K-BB%) through ten innings. He suffered his second blown save on July 5 last year.

  • Phil Maton retired the side and recorded one strikeout for his sixth hold in the eighth.
  • Riley O’Brien stranded a runner while retiring his only batter in the seventh, securing his first hold.
  • Steven Matz gave up a hit and struck out one in two-thirds scoreless in the seventh for his first hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Ryan Helsley | Phil Maton | JoJo Romero

Tampa Bay Rays

Closing a three-run win in San Diego, Pete Fairbanks allowed Manny Machado’s one-out double and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless ninth, securing his fifth save. He threw 17 pitches (9 strikes – 52.9 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

Through 11 appearances, he has a 1.45 WHIP with ten strikeouts against six walks (9.1 K-BB%) in 10.1 innings.

  • Hunter Bigge notched his first hold, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless eighth.
  • Edwin Uceta fired a clean seventh and recorded a strikeout for his third hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Mason Montgomery

Quick Hits

  • Boston Red Sox: Finishing a four-run win in Game 2, Aroldis Chapman fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts on 10 pitches (80 Strike%) with five whiffs (50 SwStr%).
  • Chicago White Sox: Bulk follower Jonathan Cannon took over at the bottom of the second. He earned his first win, logging 7.2 innings, giving up six hits, three earned runs, and two walks while striking out five.
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Colin Holderman gets tagged with his first loss. He gave up two hits, three earned runs, and a walk without recording an out in the eighth.
  • Texas Rangers: Called upon with one out and runners on second and third, Jake Latz let the game-winning score on one pitch, a Patrick Bailey walk-off RBI single. Jacob Webb suffered his first loss, allowing a hit, an earned run, and two walks in two-thirds combined 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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BrooksBaseball.net