Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | September 10

Tuesday’s slate yielded more high-leverage events, including six wins by relievers and eight saves, while getting tagged with six losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for September 10

  • Hunter Gaddis (CLE): Cade Smith has pitched in four of the previous five days. 
  • Tony Santillan (CIN): Emilio Pagán has appeared in back-to-back games. 
  • Adrian Morejon (SD): Robert Suarez, Mason Miller, and Jeremiah Estrada have been used in consecutive contests. 
  • Luke Jackson (SEA): Andrés Muñoz, Matt Brash, and Eduard Bazardo have all pitched in back-to-back games. 

Here are the leverage events of interest from Tuesday.

Leverage Ledger

Baltimore Orioles – After working two scoreless frames across the top of the tenth and 11th, Dietrich Enns collected his third win on a walk-off rally. He issued a walk and recorded two strikeouts on 22 pitches (68.2% strike rate) and induced four whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).

  • Keegan Akin issued two walks and recorded a strikeout during one-third of the ninth.
  • Yennier Cano was tagged with his fourth blown save, allowing Tommy Pham’s game-tying solo home run in the bottom of the ninth.
  • Rico Garcia retired the side and struck out one in the eighth for his sixth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: *Keegan Akin | *Rico Garcia | *Yennier Cano

*= closer-by-committee

Cincinnati Reds – Capping his team’s ninth-inning rally, Emilio Pagán shut the door on his 27th save, retiring the Padres’ 4-5-6 lineup pocket in order while recording one strikeout. He threw 11 pitches (81.8% strike rate) and generated four whiffs (36.4 SwStr%).

This marks his first save since August 31, and three of his last four outings have been clean with seven strikeouts of 14 batters faced.

  • Connor Phillips worked a scoreless eighth, issuing a walk and striking out two, then collected his second win after his teammates broke the tie at the top of the ninth.
  • Zach Maxwell tossed a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Nick Martinez

Cleveland Guardians – Working into and out of trouble, Cade Smith stranded an inherited runner despite allowing a single by Bobby Witt Jr., by striking out consecutive batters, securing his 12th save, and preserving a combined shutout. He threw 17 pitches (70.6% strike rate) and produced four whiffs (23.5 SwStr%).

Appearing for the fourth time in five days, he has only allowed one baserunner while converting three consecutive saves, recording eight strikeouts (61.5 K%) in his last four innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis | Erik Sabrowski

Houston Astros – Tasked with a tied score at the bottom of the tenth, Craig Kimbrel suffered his first loss, allowing an infield single by Vlad Guerrero Jr., recorded a strikeout, then gave up the walk-off run on a fielder’s choice groundout, scoring the “place” runner.

Bryan Abreu struggled at times with his command and was tagged with his fifth blown save. He gave up two hits, two earned runs on a game-tying two-RBI single by Isiah Kiner-Falefa, and two walks while striking out two at the bottom of the ninth. His illustrator:

And his results:

  • Bryan King worked 1.2 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out one for his 26th hold.
  • Steven Okert allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout over a scoreless combined inning for his eighth hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Bryan Abreu | Bryan King | Steven Okert

San Diego Padres – Called upon at the top of the ninth against the Reds’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket during a tied contest, Robert Suarez recorded two quick outs, then walked Gavin Lux and gave up Tyler Stephenson’s go-ahead two-run home run, resulting in his sixth loss. He threw 18 pitches (55.6% strike rate) and induced one whiff while recording one strikeout.

It’s the second time in three games that he has allowed at least a run, giving up a home run in both circumstances.

  • Mason Miller fired a clean top of the eighth, striking out the side on 17 pitches (64.7% strike rate) with six whiffs (35.3 SwStr%). This extended his scoreless streak to 13 games, and through four appearances in September, he has retired ten of 14 batters via strikeout (71.4 K%).
  • Wandy Peralta retired both batters in the seventh.
  • Jeremiah Estrada logged 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out three.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Mason Miller | Adrian Morejon

San Francisco Giants – Walking the tightrope at the top of the ninth, Ryan Walker allowed Jake McCarthy’s lead-off single and issued a walk, putting two on with no outs. After getting the forceout at third on a bunt, he induced a pop-out against Alek Thomas, followed by a game-ending Ketel Marte groundout, preserving the two-run lead for his 15th save. He threw 17 pitches (64.7% strike rate) without a whiff.

He has converted three of four save chances this month, but has been dealing with traffic in his last three appearances.

  • Joey Lucchesi notched his fifth hold, giving up a hit during a scoreless eighth.
  • Joel Peguero recorded his first hold, logging 1.2 clean frames and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Ryan Walker | José Buttó | Joey Lucchesi

Seattle Mariners – Securing his 34th save, Andrés Muñoz worked around a two-out single for a scoreless ninth, closing out a two-run lead against the Cardinals. He threw 19 pitches (57.9% strike rate) without a whiff but recorded a strikeout.

He has been scoreless and posted a save in his last three outings.

  • Matt Brash gave up a one-out single and struck out three in a scoreless eighth, recording his 21st hold.
  • Gabe Speier fired a clean seventh, notching his 21st hold.
  • Eduard Bazardo retired the side, striking out one for his ninth hold in the sixth.
  • Caleb Ferguson collected his fourth win, tossing a clean fifth and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

Tampa Bay Rays – Sealing a one-run lead against the White Sox, Pete Fairbanks matched his career-high by recording his 25th save, working around a batter reaching on an error with a scoreless ninth. He threw 17 pitches (76.5% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%).

It’s his first scoreless outing this month.

  • Edwin Uceta allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless eighth, securing his 19th hold.
  • Bryan Baker fired a clean seventh, striking out one for his 18th hold.
  • Kevin Kelly was awarded his second win. He stranded a runner and retired his only batter in the sixth.
  • Mason Montgomery yielded two hits and an earned run while striking out one over one-third of the sixth. 

Hierarchy Remains: Pete Fairbanks | Edwin Uceta | Bryan Baker

Texas Rangers – Presented a two-run lead, Shawn Armstrong allowed a one-out solo home run by Jake Bauers and a two-out single by Jackson Chourio, but finished the one-run win by inducing a game-ending lineout against Christian Yelich for his eighth save. He threw 16 pitches (81.3% strike rate) and induced one whiff. He has converted all five save opportunities since August 17 while posting a 0.748 WHIP with seven strikeouts against two walks across 10.2 innings.

  • Phil Maton retired the side and recorded a strikeout, notching his 22nd hold in the eighth.
  • Robert Garcia gave up a hit during a scoreless seventh, securing his 14th hold.
  • Luis Curvelo stranded a runner and recorded one out in the sixth for his second hold.
  • Hoby Milner collected his third win, giving up a hit during a scoreless combined inning.

Hierarchy Remains: Shawn Armstrong | Chris Martin | Phil Maton

Toronto Blue Jays – Benefiting from a terrific throw by Vlad Guerrero Jr. cutting down the “place” runner at the top of the tenth, Jeff Hoffman tossed a scoreless top of the tenth and collected his ninth win courtesy of a walk-off rally. He threw 10 pitches (80% strike rate) and induced two whiffs. He has a modest five-game scoreless streak, posting this win and a save in them.

  • Seranthony Domínguez walked one during a scoreless ninth.
  • Tommy Nance gave up a hit in a scoreless eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Jeff Hoffman | Seranthony Domínguez | Yariel Rodríguez

Quick Hits

  • Atlanta Braves: A tough debut for Alexis Díaz after being claimed off waivers. He issued three walks, hit a batter, and recorded a strikeout during two-thirds of the eighth inning, resulting in four earned runs. 
  • Chicago Cubs: If Ben Brown ever gets converted into a high-leverage reliever, his stuff will play in the late innings. He finished a five-run win in Atlanta, retiring the side and recording two strikeotus against the 3-4-5 lineup pocket, throwing 14 pitches (57.1% strike rate) with three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). Caleb Thielbar worked a clean eighth, striking out one. Andrew Kittredge stranded a runner while retiring both batters, one via strikeout for his 14th hold.
  • Chicago White Sox: With the score tied at the top of the seventh, Tyler Alexander allowed a solo home run by Tristan Gray, resulting in his 14th loss during his 1.1 inning outing. 
  • Detroit Tigers: Logging three scoreless frames after his team scored nine runs at the top of the seventh, Chris Paddack recorded his first career save. He threw 35 pitches (71.4% strike rate) and produced five whiffs (14.3 SwStr%) while recording four strikeouts.
  • New York Yankees: Entering a tied game at the top of the seventh, Fernando Cruz struggled with his command, allowing three walks and two hits, finishing with five earned runs on his ledger without retiring a batter, resulting in his fourth loss. Mark Leiter Jr. took over and put gas on the fire, giving up two hits, four earned runs, and a hit batter without recording an out.
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Taking over a tied game at the bottom of the 11th, Dauri Moreta suffered his first loss, giving up Ryan Mountcastle’s lead-off single, intentionally walking Colton Cowser, followed by Samuel Basallo’s bloop hit on the line, scoring the “place” runner.

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Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | September 9

Monday’s 11-game slate featured six games decided in blowout fashion (five or more runs), including two shutouts. However, relievers did record one win and four saves while suffering four losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Option for September 9

  • Michael Kopech (LAD): Tanner Scott and Blake Treinen have appeared in three of the previous four days. But past practice makes this risky since Dave Roberts will mix-and-match based on lineup pockets in the late innings. 

News, Notes, and Observations

As anticipated, the Cubs placed Daniel Palencia (shoulder) on the 15-day injured list:

I am sticking with our projected hierarchy:

Brad Keller | Andrew Kittredge | Caleb Thielbar

Porter Hodge could carve out a high-leverage role, but his command remains a work in progress.

Although appearing during a 1-0 loss, Ryan Helsley retired the side and recorded two strikeouts against the Phillies’ 3-4-5 lineup pocket, throwing 15 pitches (66.7% strike rate) with six whiffs (40 SwStr%).

This may not jump off the page, but it represents a much different approach by Helsley in this appearance. He has struggled with his four-seam fastball this season and leaning into his slider may enhance his results through the end of the season and in the playoffs. His best two months in swinging strike percentage have been June and July (both 18.9 percent):

His performances over the next three weeks and in the postseason may determine his market value this winter as a pending free agent.

Here are the leverage events of interest from Monday.

Leverage Ledger

Atlanta Braves – Locking down his 25th save, Raisel Iglesias retired the side and recorded one strikeout while facing the Cubs’ 4-5-6 hitters. He threw 10 pitches (70% strike rate) and induced one whiff.

He has been scoreless in 18 of his last 19 appearances since July 28, converting all 14 save chances with a 0.526 WHIP and 18 strikeouts versus two walks (23.9 K-BB%) through 19 innings.

  • Tyler Kinley fired a clean eighth, striking out one, and secured his 12th hold. This extended his scoreless streak to 13 games, during which he has four wins and three holds with a 0.385 WHIP over 13 innings.
  • Pierce Johnson let one of two inherited runners score on a sacrifice fly while retiring both batters in the seventh for his 14th hold. 

Updated Hierarchy: Raisel Iglesias | Tyler Kinley | Dylan Lee

Los Angeles Dodgers – It was not dejá vù all over again for Tanner Scott. He did allow Ryan Ritter’s lead-off double at the top of the ninth, then retired the Rockies’ 1-2-3 hitters in order, securing his 21st save while preserving a two-run lead. He threw nine pitches (77.8% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

It’s his first save since August 26, and hopefully, it’s momentum toward a strong finish.

  • Blake Treinen notched his eighth hold, retiring the side and striking out one versus the 6-7-8 lineup pocket during the top of the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: *Tanner Scott | *Michael Kopech | *Blake Treinen

*= closer-by-committee

Philadelphia Phillies – With postseason vibes and a one-run lead, Jhoan Duran worked around Pete Alonso’s lead-off single and a one-out double by Mark Vientos, striking out Jeff McNeil and Francisco Alvarez, securing his 28th save while preserving the combined shutout. He threw 14 pitches (85.7% strike rate) and generated five whiffs (35.7 SwStr%).

Duran has converted 12 of 13 save opportunities since his acquisition, posting a 0.876 WHIP with 17 strikeouts against zero walks (32.1 K-BB%) across 13.2 innings.

  • Matt Strahm allowed a walk while notching his 19th hold in the eighth.
  • David Robertson fired a clean seventh, striking out two for his seventh hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Duran | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

San Diego Padres – Summoned with two outs at the top of the tenth, Wandy Peralta retired TJ Friedl via flyout, then collected his sixth win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning.

Robert Suarez only needed 15 pitches (60% strike rate), with one whiff, while recording 1.2 clean frames and striking out two.

Mason Miller fired a clean top of the eighth, striking out two on 12 pitches (83.3% strike rate) while generating five whiffs (41.7 SwStr%).

Through three scoreless outings in September, he has recorded seven of his 11 outs via strikeout (63.6 K%) with a robust 46.7 swinging strike percentage.

  • Adrian Morejon stranded a runner with an inning-ending lineout, his only batter faced in the seventh.
  • Jeremiah Estrada recorded two strikeouts and gave up a two-out double against Matt McLain before being removed. 

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Mason Miller | Adrian Morejon

Seattle Mariners – Securing his 33rd save, Andrés Muñoz worked around a one-out walk to Iván Herrera by striking out Alec Burelson and Nolan Gorman, sealing the two-run lead. He threw 17 pitches (64.7% strike rate) and produced five whiffs (29.4 SwStr%).

This was his first appearance in September, and the rest served him well; he had more whiffs in this outing than his last three combined in August.

  • Eduard Bazardo retired the side and struck out one for his eighth hold at the top of the eighth.
  • Matt Brash fired a clean seventh, striking out two for his 20th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Matt Brash | Gabe Speier

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: Taking over at the bottom of the fifth, Bradyn Garcia was tagged with his first loss, giving up two hits, three runs (two earned), and a walk while striking out one in a combined inning, facing batters in the fifth and sixth innings. Anthony DeSclafani let all three inherited runners score in the sixth, and four earned runs on his ledger during his three innings. 
  • Cincinnati Reds: Tasked with a tied game at the bottom of the tenth, Nick Martinez suffered his 12th loss. He allowed Freddy Fermin to reach on a throwing error after a successful bunt, then allowed the “place” runner to score on a walk-off sacrifice fly by Fernando Tatis Jr. Emilio Pagán retired the side against the 6-7-8 lineup pocket in the eighth. Tony Santillan allowed a hit during a scoreless eighth. 
  • Colorado Rockies: In order of appearance, Juan Mejia let his only inherited runner score at the bottom of the sixth, giving up a hit and two walks while striking out one in a scoreless outing, resulting in his third blown save. Angel Chivilli suffered his fifth loss, allowing two hits and two earned runs in the seventh.
  • St. Louis Cardinals: Gordon Graceffo suffered his first loss and second blown save at the top of the sixth. He let both inherited runners score while giving up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk on his own ledger. 
  • Texas Rangers: Completing a combined shutout, Chris Martin tossed a clean top of the ninth and recorded one strikeout in a non-save outing against Milwaukee.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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

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Closer Monkey’s Updated Rankings | 9.8.2025

Recognizing that ranking relievers can become outdated within hours, Closer Monkey’s updated rankings incorporate in-season results with rest-of-season potential, yielding a number often worth debating. Each week, we provide rankings for saves, SOLDS, and holds. They are a combination of season-to-date, the last 14-day results, and rest-of-season projections, causing fluctuations in reliever valuation.

Daniel Palencia was placed on the 15-day injured list, reinforcing our decision not to rank him:

In saves-only formats, I advise not using a reliever from the following teams in a playoff matchup:

  • Arizona Diamondbacks
  • Miami Marlins
  • Minnesota Twins
  • The Athletics

Once again, you can go against the grain, but the reward does not outweigh the risk

Updated Top 40 Relievers for Saves

RankRelievers
1Aroldis Chapman
2Carlos Estévez
3Robert Suarez
4Jhoan Duran
5Andrés Muñoz
6Edwin Díaz
7Raisel Iglesias
8David Bednar
9Cade Smith
10Jeff Hoffman
11Bryan Abreu
12Ryan Walker
13Jose A. Ferrer
14JoJo Romero
15Dennis Santana
16Kenley Jansen
17Emilio Pagán
18Will Vest
19Abner Uribe
20Shawn Armstrong
21Riley O’Brien
22Pete Fairbanks
23Brad Keller
24Tanner Scott
25Victor Vodnik
26Mason Miller
27Jake Woodford
28Andrew Saalfrank
29Keegan Akin
30Jordan Leasure
31Yennier Cano
32Blake Treinen
33Bryan Baker
34Edwin Uceta
35Adrian Morejon
36Andrew Kittredge
37Cole Henry
38Calvin Faucher
39Tyler Phillips
40Hunter Gaddis

Top 75 for SOLDS

RankReliever
1Aroldis Chapman
2Robert Suarez
3Edwin Díaz
4Jhoan Duran
5Carlos Estévez
6Andrés Muñoz
7Abner Uribe
8Adrian Morejon
9Raisel Iglesias
10Brad Keller
11Ryan Walker
12Mason Miller
13David Bednar
14Bryan Abreu
15Cade Smith
16Jeff Hoffman
17JoJo Romero
18Will Vest
19Jose A. Ferrer
20Luke Weaver
21Hunter Gaddis
22Matt Brash
23Dennis Santana
24Bryan Baker
25Garrett Cleavinger
26Tanner Scott
27Jeremiah Estrada
28Matt Strahm
29Edwin Uceta
30Andrew Saalfrank
31Ronny Henriquez
32Kenley Jansen
33Lucas Erceg
34Garrett Whitlock
35Andrew Kittredge
36Jared Koenig
37Tony Santillan
38Emilio Pagán
39Pete Fairbanks
40Tyler Rogers
41Caleb Thielbar
42Riley O’Brien
43Matt Svanson
44Shawn Armstrong
45Fernando Cruz
46Reid Detmers
47Devin Williams
48Bryan King
49Brooks Raley
50Victor Vodnik
51Keegan Akin
52Tyler Kinley
53Tanner Banks
54Dylan Lee
55Brendon Little
56Tyler Phillips
57Gregory Soto
58Seranthony Domínguez
59Blake Treinen
60John Schreiber
61Greg Weissert
62David Robertson
63Orion Kerkering
64Kyle Leahy
65José Buttó
66Aaron Ashby
67PJ Poulin
68Clayton Beeter
69Isaac Mattson
70Jimmy Herget
71Calvin Faucher
72Griffin Jax
73Tyler Holton
74Luis García
75Scott Barlow

Top 50 for Holds

RankReliever
1Adrian Morejon
2Mason Miller
3Garrett Whitlock
4Tyler Rogers
5Ronny Henriquez
6Garrett Cleavinger
7Luke Weaver
8Hunter Gaddis
9Matt Brash
10Caleb Thielbar
11Andrew Kittredge
12Matt Svanson
13Jared Koenig
14Bryan Baker
15Tony Santillan
16Fernando Cruz
17Riley O’Brien
18Matt Strahm
19Aaron Ashby
20Edwin Uceta
21Reid Detmers
22Tyler Kinley
23Lucas Erceg
24Bryan King
25Tanner Banks
26Seranthony Domínguez
27Brendon Little
28Gabe Speier
29Jimmy Herget
30Cole Henry
31Gregory Soto
32Devin Williams
33Dylan Lee
34PJ Poulin
35Blake Treinen
36Greg Weissert
37Michael Kopech
38Chris Martin
39David Robertson
40José Buttó
41Tyler Holton
42Jordan Leasure
43Pierce Johnson
44Eduard Bazardo
45Clayton Beeter
46Ryan Helsley
47Konnor Pilkington
48Mike Vasil
49Griffin Jax
50Grant Taylor

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

This year, the daily emails have changed. 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.

If you would like to leave a tip, please use this link for PayPal. Venmo can be sent to the address above.

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

Statistical Credits:

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Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | September 8

Sunday’s slate provided a bevy of high-leverage events and a potential injury issue for fantasy managers. Relievers recorded six wins, though one was accompanied by a blown save (Reid Detmers), and 12 saves while suffering five losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Option for September 8

  • Hunter Gaddis (CLE): Cade Smith has pitched in three consecutive games. Gaddis has also worked in the previous two, but it’s do-or-die season with the team two and a half games out of the last Wild Card spot. 

Potential Hierarchy Change

Chicago Cubs – An untimely meltdown turned a save situation into a rough outing for Daniel Palencia. He took over with a two-run lead at the top of the ninth, and allowed a lead-off home run by Robert Hassell III, followed by a single and a walk against the top of the lineup. Josh Bell entered as a pinch-hitter and launched a go-ahead three-run home run, then Daylen Lile’s triple, forcing his removal. Palencia finished with four hits, five earned runs, and a walk, resulting in his sixth loss and third blown save. However, the worst part was that he left after throwing this pitch. He was unavailable after the game, still undergoing treatment according to Bruce Levine on X. 

It’s all speculative right now, but shoulder issues can be tricky. If he misses time, Brad Keller should be his replacement in the ninth inning. He secured his 23rd hold with a clean top of the eighth, striking out two. This extended his scoreless streak to 20 games, during which he has recorded a win, a save, and nine holds with a minuscule 0.443 WHIP and 25 strikeouts versus six walks (26.7 K-BB%) over his last 20.1 innings. 

If Palencia lands on the injured list, our adjusted hierarchy would be: 

Brad Keller | Andrew Kittredge | Caleb Thielbar

Stay tuned. If there’s a fluid situation, these three should be heavily involved, and Porter Hodge could work his way into the high-leverage mix with more solid outings. For now, it’s all speculative as we await an update on the severity of Palencia’s injury.

Here are the remaining leverage events of interest from Sunday.

Leverage Ledger

Boston Red Sox – Padding his statistics with a wild pitch, Aroldis Chapman recorded his 29th save, striking out all four batters faced. However, one reached, benefiting his fantasy managers with the extra strikeout. He threw 23 pitches (69.6% strike rate) and generated six whiffs (26.1 SwStr%).

This extended his hitless streak to 17 games, during which he has 21 strikeouts against four walks (34.7 K-BB%) and a minuscule 0.272 over his last 14.2 innings.

  • Garrett Whitlock collected his sixth win after stranding two runners at the bottom of the seventh and logging 1.2 clean frames while striking out one.
  • Zack Kelly was charged with his second blown save, giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one during one-third of the seventh. 

Hierarchy Remains: Aroldis Chapman | Garrett Whitlock | Greg Weissert

Chicago White Sox – Summoned with a two-run lead against the Tigers’ 7-8-9 lineup pocket, Mike Vasil retired the side and recorded a strikeout while securing his fourth save. He threw eight pitches (75% strike rate) without a whiff.

  • Jordan Leasure was gaining fantasy managers’ trust, but was deployed against the heart of the batting order in Detroit, issuing a walk and striking out two in a scoreless eighth for his 12th hold. He posted a save in his three previous outings this month and remains the preferred target for those seeking saves on the waiver wire.
  • Grant Taylor stranded a runner and retired both batters faced in the seventh via strikeout, collecting his second win. 

Hierarchy Remains: *Jordan Leasure | *Grant Taylor | *Mike Vasil

*= closer-by-committee

Cincinnati Reds – Despite allowing a solo home run by Juan Soto, Tony Santillan closed out an eventual one-run win over the Mets for his fifth save. He finished with two hits and an earned run, throwing 22 pitches (59.1% strike rate) and inducing one whiff. It’s his first save since August 19.

  • Nick Martinez worked a clean top of the eighth, securing his third hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Emilio Pagán | Tony Santillan | Nick Martinez

Cleveland Guardians – For the first time this season, Cade Smith appeared in three straight games and recorded his 11th save, striking out the side while sealing a one-run lead in Tampa Bay. He threw 18 pitches (72.2% strike rate) and generated six whiffs (33.3 SwStr%) while facing the 6-7-8 lineup pocket, extending his scoreless streak to three games.

  • Hunter Gaddis notched his 30th save, stranded a runner at the bottom of the seventh and retiring all four batters, one via strikeout.
  • Matt Festa gave up a hit and struck out two during two-thirds of the seventh for his ninth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis | Erik Sabrowski

Los Angeles Angels – Preserving a one-run lead, Kenley Jansen locked down his 26th save, retiring the side against the A’s 5-6-7 lineup pocket. He threw nine pitches (77.8% strike rate) and induced one whiff (11.1 SwStr%).

This extended his modest scoreless streak to five games, during which he has converted three saves with a 0.40 WHIP over five innings. He’s also within five saves of tying Lee Smith for third all-time (478).

  • Reid Detmers allowed two hits and an earned run on a sacrifice fly, resulting in his fifth blown save at the top of the eighth. However, he collected his fifth win courtesy of a go-ahead rally at the bottom of the inning.
  • Luis García recorded his 11th hold, navigating around a hit and a walk during a scoreless seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Reid Detmers | Luis García

Los Angeles Dodgers – Presented a three-run lead at the bottom of the ninth in Baltimore, Jack Dreyer worked around Jorge Mateo’s two-out single with three strikeouts, shutting the door on his third save. He threw 14 pitches (78.6% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%). This extended his scoreless streak to seven games and marked his first save since August 15.

  • Justin Wrobleski logged two scoreless frames, scattering two hits and striking out five for his fourth hold.
  • Edgardo Henriquez was credited with his fourth hold despite letting his only inherited runner score on Alex Jackson’s RBI double, and retired Dylan Carlson via flyout at the bottom of the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: *Tanner Scott | *Michael Kopech | *Blake Treinen

*= closer-by-committee

Miami Marlins – Reliever roulette landed on Lake Bachar with a two-run lead at the top of the ninth against the Phillies. He worked himself into trouble, walking the first two batters he faced, recorded an out on a failed sacrifice bunt attempt, and allowed an RBI single by Kyle Schwarber, but held on for his third save by inducing a game-ending groundout by Bryce Harper. Bachar threw 28 pitches (53.6% strike rate) and produced one whiff in a traffic-infused outing. Saves continue to be devalued in this bullpen.

  • Ronny Henriquez was awarded his seventh win. He stranded a runner at the top of the seventh and logged 1.1 scoreless innings, yielding a hit and striking out two.
  • Michael Peterson issued a walk and recorded a strikeout for his first hold during two-thirds of the seventh.
  • Calvin Faucher gave up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk during the sixth, getting credit for his seventh hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: *Calvin Faucher | *Ronny Henriquez | *Tyler Phillips

*= closer-by-committee

Minnesota Twins – Pressed into duty with two runners on and two outs, Génesis Cabrera made things more difficult, walking Carter Jenson before inducing a game-ending flyout by Mike Yastrzemski, resulting in his first save, protecting a four-run lead in Kansas City.

  • Justin Topa stranded all three inherited runners at the bottom of the eighth, then gave up a hit and a walk while recording two outs in the ninth, for a scoreless combined inning and his fourth hold.
  • Kody Fundreburk allowed two hits and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the eighth.
  • Cole Sands logged 1.2 scoreless frames, issuing a walk while securing his 13th hold.

Hierarchy Remains: *Justin Topa | *Cole Sands | *Kody Funderburk

*= closer-by-committee

New York Yankees – Handed a one-run lead at the top of the ninth, David Bednar worked around a one-out single by Nathan Lukes with a caught stealing and a game-ending groundout, securing his 22nd save, fifth since his acquisition. He threw 12 pitches (66.7% strike rate) and produced one whiff.

He’s been scoreless in five of his last six appearances, while posting a win and converting two saves.

  • Devin Williams notched his tenth hold, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless eighth.

Hierarchy: David Bednar | Luke Weaver | Fernando Cruz

St. Louis Cardinals – Sealing a one-run win over the Giants, Riley O’Brien entered against the 7-8-9 lineup pocket, giving up a Casey Schmitt’s lead-off single, a lineout, and inducing a game-ending double play groundout against Patrick Bailey to secure his third save. After not pitching since August 28, he has appeared in consecutive contests, posting a win and a save.

  • JoJo Romero notched his 21st hold, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out two in a scoreless top of the eighth, working through the heart of the lineup. He remains the HLR, not a closer in the traditional sense.
  • Matt Svanson stranded two of three inherited runners at the top of the sixth, and logged 1.2 scoreless frames, yielding a hit while striking out three for his fourth hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: *JoJo Romero | *Riley O’Brien | Matt Svanson

*= closer-by-committee

Texas Rangers – Called upon with a runner on and two outs at the top of the eighth, Shawn Armstrong nailed down his seventh save, retiring all four Astros faced while striking out one. He threw 13 pitches (84.6% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%) against the 3-through-6 hitters.

Since August 17, he has converted all four save opportunities and been scoreless in seven of eight appearances while posting a 0.619 WHIP with seven strikeouts against two walks across 9.2 innings.

  • Robert Garcia notched his 13th hold, allowing a hit during two-thirds scoreless in the eighth.
  • Phil Maton gave up a hit and an earned run while striking out two in the seventh, resulting in his third win. 

Updated Hierarchy: Shawn Armstrong | Chris Martin | Phil Maton

Washington Nationals – Capping his team’s five-run outburst at the top of the ninth, Jose A. Ferrer secured his seventh save, working around Matt Shaw’s lead-off single and Ian Happ’s two-out walk with a game-ending groundout for a scoreless ninth. He threw 15 pitches (60% strike rate) and induced two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%).

  • Mason Thompson gave up two hits and an earned run while striking out one at the bottom of the eighth, which proved fortuitous when he was awarded his first win.
  • Jackson Rutledge tossed a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Jose A. Ferrer | Cole Henry | PJ Poulin

Quick Hits

  • Arizona Diamondbacks: Taking over at the top of the eighth, Taylor Rashi retired the side and recorded two strikeouts against the Red Sox 2-3-4 lineup pocket. Things changed upon his return in the ninth. He allowed a one-out single by Romy Gonzalez, walked Nate Eaton, then gave up Nick Sogard’s pinch-hit, two-RBI double, resulting in his removal and his first loss. Kyle Backhus let the inherited runner score on a single and recorded a strikeout.
  • Baltimore Orioles: Appearing in a loss, Keegan Akin issued two walks during a scoreless top of the seventh, taking over against the Dodgers’ top of the lineup. Yennier Cano fired a clean eighth, striking out one while facing the 6-7-8 lineup pocket. 
  • Detroit Tigers: Forced into action with the bases loaded and no outs at the top of the eighth, Will Vest let two of three runners score on Lenyn Sosa’s two-RBI single. Vest finished with two hits and a strikeout during a scoreless outing. However, Tommy Kahnle suffered his fourth loss and fifth blown save. He retired both batters in the seventh, then gave up consecutive singles and a walk during the eighth, forcing his removal, and resulting in two earned runs.
  • Milwaukee Brewers: Closing out a lopsided win, Craig Yoho fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts, throwing 10 pitches (70% strike rate) with three whiffs (30 SwStr%) in Pittsburgh. 
  • Pittsburgh Pirates: Pitching with an eight-run deficit, Dennis Santana worked a scoreless top of the ninth, giving up a hit and striking out one on 17 pitches (70.6% strike rate) with one whiff.
  • Tampa Bay Rays: Taking over with a one-run lead at the top of the sixth, Garrett Cleavinger not only had his 22-game scoreless streak snapped, but he also suffered his fifth loss and third blown save, giving up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one over two-thirds of the inning.
  • The Athletics: With the score tied at the bottom of the eighth, Osvaldo Bido suffered his fifth loss, allowing a hit, an earned run, and two walks during one-third of the inning.
  • Toronto Blue Jays: In an eventual one-run loss, Jeff Hoffman walked one and tossed a scoreless bottom of the eighth. Braydon Fisher fired a clean seventh, striking out the side. Ryan Borucki logged 1.2 clean frames, striking out two. 

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

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Closer Monkey’s Leverage Ledger | September 7

Relievers did not factor in as many decisions as usual since the All-Star break for a full slate of contests. Relief pitchers recorded four wins, though one was accompanied by a blown save designation (Gabe Speier), and six saves while suffering four losses. Here are the saves in condensed form:

For the save streamers:

Vulture Save Options for September 7

  • Michael Kopech (LAD): Tanner Scott and Blake Treinen have appeared in back-to-back games. 
  • Hunter Gaddis (CLE): Cade Smith has worked in consecutive contests. 
  • Edwin Uceta (TB): He has pitched after Bryan Baker over the last two games, but either could be in play since Pete Fairbanks has not appeared in back-to-back games since mid-August. 
  • Tony Santillan (CIN): Emilio Pagán has pitched in both games against the Mets this weekend. 

Here are the leverage events of interest from Saturday.

Leverage Ledger

Cleveland Guardians – Capping his team’s go-ahead rally at the top of the ninth, Cade Smith locked down his tenth save, retiring the side and recording two strikeouts, preserving a one-run margin. He threw 14 pitches (78.6% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%).

He has been scoreless in five of his last six, during which he has recorded a 0.943 WHIP with eight strikeouts versus zero walks while securing a win and converting three saves.

  • Hunter Gaddis collected his second win, yielding a hit and striking out one at the bottom of the eighth.
  • Erik Sabrowski stranded a runner but issued two walks and retired one batter in the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Cade Smith | Hunter Gaddis | Erik Sabrowski

Los Angeles Dodgers – Things escalated quickly at Camden Yards. Blake Treinen took over a lost no-hit bid with a two-run lead, and allowed a double by Jeremiah Jackson, hit Gunnar Henderson with a pitch, walked Ryan Mountcastle to load the bases, and walked in a run while facing Colton Cowser, prompting his removal.

Tanner Scott inherited a bases-loaded situation and suffered his ninth blown save, allowing a walk-off two-RBI single, resulting in Treinen’s third loss.

If there is a save chance on Sunday, look for Michael Kopech in the ninth. It’s been a rough stretch for this leverage ladder, and since the trade deadline, the team has only converted four saves, illustrated in this chart with other shared save situations:

Updated Hierarchy: *Tanner Scott | *Michael Kopech | *Blake Treinen

*= closer-by-committee

Milwaukee Brewers – Pressed into duty with two runners on and one out at the bottom of the eighth, Aaron Ashby induced an inning-ending double play against Alexander Canario. Returning for the ninth, he issued Bryan Reynolds a lead-off walk, followed by a Nick Gonzales one-out ground rule double. Ashby could not complete the combined shutout, allowing an earned run on a groundout, and finished his third save with a game-ending strikeout. He threw 20 pitches (65% strike rate) and produced one whiff.

  • Tobias Myers gave up a hit and a walk during one-third of the eighth.
  • Rob Zastryzny notched his second hold, walking one and retiring one batter in the seventh.
  • Erik Fedde allowed a lead-off double and recorded two outs for his first hold in the seventh. 

There was good news in this update on X by Sophia Minnaert:

Hierarchy Remains: *Abner Uribe | *Jared Koenig | Aaron Ashby

*= match-up-based bullpen

New York Yankees – Summoned at the bottom of the eighth with a runner on and two outs, David Bednar retired all four batters faced, three via strikeout, and preserved a two-run win over Toronto for his 21st save. He threw 21 pitches (71.4% strike rate) and produced two whiffs (9.5 SwStr%).

It’s his first save since August 16, and his first requiring more than three outs since August 6.

  • Fernando Cruz stranded a runner in the seventh and worked around a hit and a walk while striking out one for his 14th hold in a scoreless combined inning.
  • Luke Weaver took over after the rain delay at the top of the seventh and allowed a hit during two-thirds scoreless, securing his 18th hold. 

Updated Hierarchy: David Bednar | Luke Weaver | Fernando Cruz

Philadelphia Phillies – Shutting the door on his 27th save, 11th with the Phillies, Jhoan Duran retired the side, including a game-ending strikeout, preserving a two-run lead in Miami. He threw 10 pitches (70% strike rate) and induced two whiffs.

He has turned in five consecutive clean appearances, converting all four save chances with six strikeouts (40 K-BB%).

  • Matt Strahm notched his 18th hold, firing a clean eighth and striking out two against the 3-4-5 lineup pocket.
  • David Robertson navigated around a lead-off double with a groundout, a caught stealing, and an inning-ending groundout for his sixth hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Jhoan Duran | Matt Strahm | Orion Kerkering

San Diego Padres – Although he allowed a one-out solo home run by Mickey Moniak, Robert Suarez recorded his National League-leading 36th save, giving up two hits while finishing a two-run win in Coors Field. He threw 18 pitches (72.2% strike rate) and produced two whiffs.

This marks his first save since August 26 and snapped his six-game scoreless streak.

  • Mason Miller logged 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out two, securing his sixth hold.
  • Jeremiah Estrada struggled, giving up three hits, four earned runs, and a walk while striking out two during two-thirds of the seventh.

Updated Hierarchy: Robert Suarez | Mason Miller | Adrian Morejon

Tampa Bay Rays – For a second straight appearance, Pete Fairbanks has allowed at least a run, this one resulting in his fifth loss. He took over a tied game at the top of the ninth, giving up a lead-off single and a walk, recorded an out on a sacrifice bunt, followed by a strikeout, but let the go-ahead run score on Steven Kwan’s RBI single. Fairbanks has suffered two losses while yielding at least a run in four of his last seven games.

  • Edwin Uceta fired a clean eighth, striking out one.
  • Bryan Baker issued a walk and struck out two in a scoreless seventh.
  • Garrett Cleavinger extended his scoreless streak to 22 games, handing out a walk and striking out two in the sixth.

For now, but how the team structures the bullpen in a save chance today, if Fairbanks is not used, should be monitored closely:

Hierarchy Remains: Pete Fairbanks | Bryan Baker | Garrett Cleavinger

Washington Nationals – Sealing a one-run lead against the Cubs, Cole Henry navigated around Nico Hoerner’s one-out single with a strikeout and a game-ending by Willi Castro for his second save. He threw 17 pitches (58.8% strike rate) and produced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%) while facing the 4-5-6-7 hitters.

Jose A. Ferrer notched his 21st hold, retiring the top of the lineup on 16 pitches (56.3% strike rate) and inducing one whiff.

This extends his scoreless streak to 12 games, during which he has two wins, six saves, and two holds while posting a 0.699 WHIP with 13 strikeouts versus one walk (23.5 K-BB%) across 14.1 innings.

  • Clayton Beeter issued two walks during a scoreless seventh for his fourth hold.
  • PJ Poulin stranded a runner and walked one during one-third of the sixth, getting credit for his fifth hold.

For those frustrated by this usage pattern, Mark Zuckerman’s post explains how Miguel Cairo will continue to do it for the remainder of the season. Ferrer’s the preferred option for the ninth, unless he’s needed against the toughest lineup pocket prior.

Updated Hierarchy: Jose A. Ferrer | Cole Henry | PJ Poulin

Quick Hits

  • Atlanta Braves: With the score tied at the top of the seventh, Daysbel Hernández allowed three hits, two home runs, and three earned runs while retiring two batters, resulting in his third loss.
  • Baltimore Orioles: It seemed relatively innocuous when Albert Suárez logged three innings, giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one. However, he collected his first win on a walk-off rally at the bottom of the ninth. He threw 42 pitches (66.7% strike rate) and induced three whiffs. 
  • Chicago Cubs: Appearing during an eventual one-run loss, Daniel Palencia fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts on 13 pitches (76.9% strike rate) with three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%). It’s his first outing since securing a save on September 2. 
  • Cincinnati Reds: Despite giving up Francisco Lindor’s one-out double, followed by a Juan Soto single, Emilio Pagán gave up an earned run on a wild pitch, then retired the next two batters via strikeout, closing out a three-run win over the Mets. He threw 18 pitches (77.8% strike rate) and generated five whiffs (27.8 SwStr%). He has not recorded a save in September and allowed at least a run in two of his last three outings.
  • San Francisco Giants: Presented a 2-0 lead at the bottom of the ninth, Ryan Walker suffered his fifth loss and his sixth blown save, giving up four hits and three earned runs, culminating in Jordan Walker’s walk-off two-RBI single, snapping his ten-game scoreless streak.
  • Seattle Mariners: Although he was tagged with his sixth blown save at the bottom of the sixth, Gabe Speier let one of three inherited runners score on a game-tying sacrifice fly while retiring both batters. However, he collected his third win, benefiting from his team’s four-run rally at the top of the seventh.
  • St. Louis Cardinals: Making his first appearance since August 28, Riley O’Brien tossed a scoreless top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout with his team down by two runs. He collected his third win courtesy of a walk-off rally at the bottom of the inning. He threw eight pitches (87.5% strike rate) and induced one whiff.

Closer Monkey Emails for 2025

This year, the daily emails have changed. 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.

If you would like to leave a tip, please use this link for PayPal. Venmo can be sent to the address above.

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

BaseballSavant.com

BrooksBaseball.net