Monkey Bytes, April 9: Phillies “floating closer” concept resurfaces, Helsley suffers a loss, Game Recaps, Injury Notes, and more

After recording his team’s first two saves, José Alvarado appeared in the eighth, matching up with a left-handed lineup pocket, not as a traditional closer. This readjusts the leverage ladder which felt like it was stabilizing, but as this game points out, did not. There were other events of interest in the 13-game slate, covered in today’s Monkey Bytes.

Philadelphia Phillies – Securing his first save of the season, Gregory Soto stranded the “place” runner despite allowing a one-out single with consecutive strikeouts. He threw 20 pitches (55 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. Jeff Hoffman suffered his second blown save and collected his first win. He gave up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one in the bottom of the ninth. José Alvarado entered the eighth against the 9-1-2 lineup pocket, all left-handed hitters, notching his first hold, walking one, and striking out one in a scoreless outing.

Updated hierarchy: *José Alvarado | *Jeff Hoffman | *Gregory Soto

* = closer-by-committee

St. Louis Cardinals – After his team rallied in the bottom of the ninth, Ryan Helsley took over a tied game in the tenth, but suffered his first loss. He induced a ground-out by Trea Turner and intentionally walked Bryce Harper preceding an RBI double by Alec Bohm and a sacrifice fly. He finished with a hit, two runs (one earned), and a walk on his ledger while throwing 10 pitches (80 Strike%) with two whiffs (20 SwStr%). He owns a 1.50 WHIP with five strikeouts versus one walk through six innings this season. Andre Pallante retired his only batter faced in the ninth, stranding two runners. Giovanny Gallegos only recorded one out in the eighth, giving up two hits and an earned run while striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Ryan Helsley | Giovanny Gallegos | JoJo Romero

Los Angeles Dodgers – Locking down his fourth save, Evan Phillips fired a clean ninth, striking out one. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) without recording a whiff. He owns a 0.71 WHIP with seven strikeouts against one walk over 5.2 innings. Daniel Hudson secured his third hold, retiring the side in order in the eighth and striking out one. Ryan Brasier turned in a clean seventh, striking out one for his third hold.

Hierarchy remains: Evan Phillips | Daniel Hudson | Joe Kelly 

Cincinnati Reds – Hanging on for his second save, Alexis Díaz navigated around a one-out walk of Christian Yelich and a hit-batter, for a scoreless ninth, preserving a two-run win. He threw 19 pitches (9 strikes – 47.4 Strike%) while producing one whiff. He’s posted a 1.60 WHIP with five strikeouts against four walks through five innings. Fernando Cruz fired a clean eighth for his second hold, striking out two on 14 pitches (9 strikes – 64.3 Strike%) with three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). Lucas Sims secured his second hold, yielding a hit and striking out three in a scoreless seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Alexis Díaz | Lucas Sims (HLR) | Fernando Cruz 

San Diego Padres –  Nailing down his fourth save, Robert Suarez fired a clean top of the ninth, striking out two, preserving a come-from-behind one-run win while facing the 2-3-4 lineup pocket. He threw 14 pitches (8 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). He’s converted all four save chances this season and owns an 8:3 K:BB with a 1.00 WHIP over six innings. Wandy Peralta collected his first win, allowing a hit during a scoreless eighth.

Hierarchy remains: Robert Suarez | Yuki Matsui | Wandy Peralta

Chicago Cubs – After an eight-run lead shrank to a one-run margin, Adbert Alzolay entered with one out in the eighth, inheriting a runner for a multi-inning save opportunity. However, he suffered his first loss and second blown save while serving up a go-ahead home run by Fernando Tatis Jr. He retired his other two batters faced, one via strikeout, throwing 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He’s posted a 1.29 WHIP with five strikeouts against one walk through his first 4.2 innings. Hector Neris was credited with his first hold, allowing an earned run and a walk over his combined inning of relief.

Hierarchy remains: Adbert Alzolay | Hector Neris | Mark Leiter Jr. 

Hierarchy Change

Colorado Rockies – Closing out a two-run win, Jake Bird stranded the bases loaded by inducing a game-ending fly-out, recording his first career save. Nick Mears received his first save chance, but it was a rough ride in high leverage. He allowed a hit, an earned run, and three walks while striking out one over two-thirds of the ninth for his third hold. Justin Lawrence notched his first hold, working a scoreless eighth while matching up with Arizona’s 4-5-6 lineup pocket, walking one and striking out two. He threw 18 pitches (55.6 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%). Peter Lambert logged two scoreless frames, walking one and striking out one while collecting his first win. 

Updated hierarchy: *Justin Lawrence (HLR) | Nick Mears | Jake Bird

*= closer-by-committee

Ancillary Save Alert

New York Mets – Surviving a late rally, Jorge López recorded his first save, and first since May 11, 2023, during a one-run game in Atlanta. He allowed two hits, including an RBI single by Michael Harris II in the bottom of the ninth. Drew Smith notched his second hold despite letting his only inherited runner score, giving up a hit and two walks while striking out two in the eighth. Jake Diekman collected his first win during a combined inning of relief, permitting an earned run while issuing a walk and recording a strikeout. This provided much needed rest for the high-leverage triumvirate, who all worked in three of the previous four days.

Hierarchy remains: Edwin Díaz | Adam Ottavino | Brooks Raley

Quick Hits (Recaps in non-save outings from April 8)

Atlanta Braves – In ascending order of appearances, Aaron Bummer stranded a runner and retired his only batter faced in the sixth. A.J. Minter suffered his first blown save, allowing a solo home run (Brandon Nimmo) and striking out two in the seventh. Pierce Johnson was tagged with his first loss, giving up three hits, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the eighth.

Hierarchy remains: Raisel Iglesias | A.J. Minter | Pierce Johnson

Cleveland Guardians – During a non-save outing, Emmanuel Clase preserved a combined shutout, working around a two-out single and recording two strikeouts. He threw 18 pitches (14 strikes – 77.8 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (27.8 SwStr%). He owns a 1.00 WHIP with six strikeouts versus zero walks through five scoreless frames this season.

Hierarchy remains: Emmanuel Clase | Scott Barlow | Tyler Beede

Pittsburgh Pirates – Aroldis Chapman notched his fourth hold, retiring both batters faced via strikeout on seven pitches, all strikes while inducing two whiffs (28.6 SwStr%). He owns a 0.23 WHIP with eight strikeouts versus one walk through his first 4.1 innings.

Hierarchy remains: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Hunter Stratton

Toronto Blue Jays – Taking over with a four-run lead in a non-save appearance, Chad Green allowed two hits, including a solo home run by Cal Raleigh, and recorded two strikeouts in the ninth during an eventual three-run win. He threw 23 pitches (15 strikes – 65.2 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (13 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains: Chad Green | Yimi García (HLR) | Génesis Cabrera

Minnesota Twins – Entering in the sixth, Steven Okert was tagged with his first blown save, allowing three hits and an earned run while striking out one. Suffering his first loss, Jay Jackson allowed two hits, both solo home runs, and recorded a strikeout in the top of the seventh. Griffin Jax worked a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one. He threw 21 pitches (11 strikes – 52.3 Strike%) with two whiffs. Kody Funderburk tossed a scoreless top of the ninth, yielding a hit and striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: *Griffin Jax | *Brock Stewart | Steven Okert

Vulture Saves for Tuesday, April 9

COL: Justin Lawrence has pitched in three of the last four days, which means Jake Bird or Jalen Beeks could receive the save chance dependent on match-ups in the late innings.

PHI: After appearing yesterday, José Alvarado has worked in three of the last four, opening the door for a potential multi-inning save by Matt Strahm.

TOR: Playing a hunch here, but Chad Green (23 pitches) and Yimi García (27 pitches) recorded high pitch counts, which may yield a save chance for Trevor Richards in tonight’s contest.

Vulture Save Options for Wednesday, April 10

CLE: If Emmanuel Clase pitches today, Scott Barlow would be in line for the save on Wednesday.

CIN: Since all three of the high-leverage relievers pitched on Monday if they work again this evening, Emilio Pagán could garner the vulture save chance on Wednesday.

LAD: The Dodgers will not overwork Evan Phillips, so if he pitches today, it would be Daniel Hudson on Wednesday if he does not get used tonight or Joe Kelly if he does.

STL: Guessing the Cardinals would prefer avoiding Helsley tonight, but if he pitches, look for JoJo Romero receiving the save chance, if provided, on Wednesday.

Closer Monkey’s filthy outing of the day goes to Aroldis Chapman. He entered a bases-loaded situation in the eighth and recorded two strikeouts, preserving the lead. Video provided by the Pitching Ninja.

In case you missed it, went through two situations of interest on Monday, highlighting the early command struggles by José Leclerc and Tanner Scott in “Under the Hood“.

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Under the Hood: Two Potential Relievers on the “hot” seat

With a new scoring period on the horizon, taking a look at underlying data by struggling relievers may provide an idea of how long their proverbial leash may be. Our first installment will feature two closers struggling with their command after the first week and a half of games.

José Leclerc, Texas Rangers

After anchoring his bullpen during its championship run last year, Leclerc had to earn the ninth inning during Spring Training. He struggled in early outings but earned the trust of Bruce Bochy based on his results from the second half through the playoffs in 2023. However, it’s not translated early on this season.

He’s suffered a loss and recorded a save with two strikeouts versus five walks (-13 K-BB percentage), a 2.50 WHIP, a 56.7 strike percentage, and an 81 percent contact rate through his first four innings. It’s a small sample, but it resembles his first-half struggles last year, not the strong finish. It’s disconcerting seeing a team’s closer rank last in Win Probability Added (a metric on Fangraphs which values if a reliever enhances his team’s chances for a win):

With the bullpen losing Josh Sborz (shoulder) to the 15-day injured list, the depth takes a hit, placing Leclerc under more scrutiny. If his slow start continues, there are two relievers with “closer” experience on the roster in case Bochy makes a change.

Kirby Yates represents one of five relievers in this season’s very limited sample with a K-BB percentage greater than 20, a swinging strike percentage above 15, a strike percentage over 65, and a contact rate allowed of 65 percent or lower:

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

Remembering it’s a limited timeframe, he’s turned in three scoreless outings with three strikeouts versus zero walks with a 2.14 SIERA, and 0.33 WHIP. He’s been the preferred option by his manager against the toughest left-handed hitting pockets early on, but could take on a larger leverage role if needed.

David Robertson leads his team in holds (4), and also collected a win during his first five appearances, all scoreless. He’s posted a 1.06 WHIP with a 4.28 SIERA, 64 strike percentage, 9.1 K-BB percentage, and allowed a 73.3 percent contact rate.

It’s possible Bochy would prefer a match-up-based approach if Leclerc cannot turn his results around. This will be monitored, but the early data prefers Yates.

Tanner Scott, Miami Marlins

Not only did Scott save his bullpen in the second half, but he was arguably the second most valuable reliever after the All-Star break last year behind Robert Stephenson. However, things went sideways early in spring, and may be improving, but his command has been abysmal through his first four contests. His 2.25 ERA accompanies a 6.46 SIERA and a 1.75 WHIP. He’s recorded five strikeouts against six walks (-4.8 K-BB percentage) with a 57.1 strike percentage, and an 81.8 percent contact rate allowed. Perhaps the biggest concern, his 6.6 swinging strike percentage.

It may be too early for an overreaction, but things must improve if he remains atop the bullpen hierarchy until he’s traded. His pending free agency will give him more save opportunities since there’s no value in a demoted leverage reliever.

Anthony Bender was a popular add in this weekend’s FAAB-run in NFBC contests. He has closer experience and owns a 6:1 K:BB (29.4 K-BB percentage) over 3.2 innings early on. He also boasts a 77.8 percent contact rate allowed while throwing strikes 64.2 percent of his pitches, and a paltry 9.9 swinging strike percentage. Being the highest-leveraged right-handed reliever may yield save chances soon, but there may be traffic on the bases during them.

Andrew Nardi also started slowly but may be righting the ship. He fired a clean outing on Sunday while recording two strikeouts and his underlying data suggests some bad luck in his early outcomes. He also touts a 6:1 K:BB (21.7 K-BB percentage) through his first five games with a 16.62 ERA versus a 2.98 SIERA, 14.7 swinging strike percentage, a 67.4 strike percentage, and a 74.1 percent contact rate allowed.

Fantasy players will monitor this situation closely, but Scott will be provided a runway for finding past form, and the key lies in attacking hitters in the strike zone so his slider can produce whiffs.

Entering game play on Monday, April 8, here are the leaders by reliever categories.

Saves Leaders

  • Emmanuel Clase (CLE) – 4
  • Clay Holmes (NYY) – 4
  • Carlos Estévez (LAA) – 3
  • Kyle Finnegan (WSH) – 3
  • Ryan Helsley (STL) – 3
  • Kenley Jansen (BOS) – 3
  • Evan Phillips (LAD) – 3
  • Robert Suarez (SDP) – 3
  • Abner Uribe (MIL) – 3

Holds Leaders

  • Scott Barlow (CLE) – 4
  • Andrew Kittredge (STL) – 4
  • David Robertson (TEX) – 4

SOLDS (saves plus holds) Leaders

  • Scott Barlow (CLE) – 4
  • Aroldis Chapman (PIT) – 4
  • Emmanuel Clase (CLE) – 4
  • Clay Holmes (NYY) – 4
  • Andrew Kittredge (STL) – 4
  • David Robertson (TEX) – 4

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

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Monkey Bytes, April 2: April Fools by managers?; Game Recaps, and Injury Updates

Although fantasy players prefer clarity during high-leverage events, some managers will deploy their best relievers in the highest-leveraged moment, not necessarily reserve them for the traditional save chance in the ninth inning. This happened not, once or twice, but during three separate contests in Monday’s slate. It remains early for tracking bullpen usage patterns, but it could affect how save situations evolve moving forward.

Seattle Mariners – Protecting a two-run lead, Andrés Muñoz entered in the top of the eighth against Cleveland’s 3-4-5 lineup pocket, in the highest-leveraged moment. Although he served up a solo home run by Josh Naylor, he secured the hold and recorded a strikeout while throwing 16 pitches (75 Strike%) with three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%). Ryne Stanek fired a clean ninth, striking out one for his first save versus the 7-8-9 pocket. Also appearing in relief, Tayler Saucedo retired two batters in the sixth for his first hold. Gabe Speier notched his second hold, giving up a hit and striking out two in a scoreless seventh. Scott Servais played for the win, not for a traditional save.

Hierarchy Remains: Andrés Muñoz | Ryne Stanek | Gabe Speier

Cincinnati Reds – Taking over in the bottom of the eighth with two runners on and one out, Alexis Díaz picked off the pinch-runner at second, and retired all four batters faced, recording two strikeouts, then collected his first win of the season courtesy of a rally in the top of the 10th. He threw 14 pitches (64.3 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). Tejay Antone worked the 10th, allowing a hit, an unearned run, and a walk while striking out two. Brent Suter gave up two hits during one-third of the eighth before being removed. Justin Wilson tossed a scoreless seventh, walking one and striking out one. Emilio Pagán retired two batters in the sixth, giving up a hit and striking out one. David Bell has done this before with his relievers. The good news, Díaz only needed 14 pitches in this outing, so he could record the save chance if called upon in tonight’s contest.

Hierarchy Updated: Alexis Díaz | Lucas Sims | Fernando Cruz

Miami Marlins – In a curious leverage pattern, Tanner Scott took over a tied game in the top of the eighth against the top of the Angels lineup, which features three right-handed hitters in the top four spots. Scott issued three straight walks, let the go-ahead run score on a fielder’s choice groundout, and then retired the next two hitters en route to his second loss. He threw 27 pitches (14 strikes – 51.9 Strike%) with no whiffs. In the ninth, Anthony Bender allowed two hits and two earned runs while striking out one over two-thirds of an inning. Burch Smith recorded the last out in the inning after walking a batter. In the seventh, Andrew Nardi gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless outing. George Soriano was tagged with his first blown save, serving up two solo home runs and striking out one in the sixth. Manager Skip Schumaker remains steadfast in his support for Scott, but Nardi could be on the radar for those interested for future save chances if the command issues linger.

Hierarchy Remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Anthony Bender

American League (Game Recaps April 1)

Baltimore Orioles – As far as blown saves come, this was a tough one for Craig Kimbrel during his team debut. With one out, he allowed an opposite-field bloop single, then pinch-runner Dairon Blanco stole second and third, then scored on a sacrifice fly, tying the game, before an inning-ending strikeout of Bobby Witt Jr. However, Kimbrel collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off home run in the bottom of the frame. He threw 23 pitches (15 strikes – 65.2 Strike%) with one whiff. Yennier Cano navigated around two hits and a walk while striking out one over 1.1 scoreless innings. Keegan Akin tossed 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Craig Kimbrel | Yennier Cano | Dillon Tate

Boston Red Sox – Taking the baton from Tanner Houck, newly acquired reliever Chase Anderson recorded a three-inning save, allowing a hit and striking out three in a scoreless appearance, preserving a combined shutout in Oakland. He threw 40 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced five whiffs (12.5 SwStr%). Before the game, manager Alex Cora indicated Kenley Jansen was available if needed per Christopher Smith of MassLive on “X”. 

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Chris Martin | Josh Winckowski

Detroit Tigers – Closing out a combined shutout, Shelby Miller retired the side in order in the bottom of the 10th, stranding the “place” runner. He threw 16 pitches (50 Strike%) without a whiff. Jason Foley collected his first win, tossing a scoreless ninth, giving up a hit, and striking out two on 15 pitches (80 Strike%) with two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%). Alex Faedo logged two scoreless frames, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out three. Will Vest stranded a runner and retired his only batter faced in the sixth.

Hierarchy Remains: *Jason Foley | *Shelby Miller | Andrew Chafin

Kansas City Royals -Suffering his first loss, Nick Anderson allowed two hits, including a walk-off two-run home run by Jordan Westburg in Baltimore. James McArthur gave up three hits and an earned run while striking out one in the eighth, though his team defense did him no favors. Chris Stratton worked a scoreless seventh, allowing a hit. John Schreiber fired a clean sixth, striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Will Smith | James McArthur | John Schreiber

Los Angeles Angels – Securing his second save, Carlos Estévez turned in a scoreless bottom of the ninth, yielding a hit. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) without inducing a whiff. Matt Moore notched his first hold, firing a clean eighth, and striking out one. Adam Cimber collected his first win, firing 1.2 clean frames and striking out one. José Suarez worked 1.1 scoreless innings, navigating around a hit and two walks while striking out two. José Cisnero scattered two hits during a scoreless fourth.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | José Soriano

New York Yankees – Providing the high-leverage relievers rest, manager Aaron Boone called upon Victor González for the save in the bottom of the ninth, and he responded with a scoreless inning, yielding a one-out double, but retired the next two batters. Nick Burdi secured his first hold, firing a clean eighth while striking out one. Luke Weaver collected his second win, logging 2.1 innings, giving up two hits, an earned run, and a walk.

Hierarchy Remains: Clay Holmes | Ian Hamilton | Jonathan Loáisiga

National League (Game Recaps April 1)

Philadelphia Phillies – Entering with his team down by four, Nick Nelson retired his only batter faced via strikeout, stranding a runner. Connor Brogdon suffered his first loss, giving up four runs (three earned) on a grand slam in the top of the 10th after issuing two walks. He finished with three walks versus two strikeouts in his two-thirds of an inning. José Alvarado worked a scoreless ninth, walking one and striking out two. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%). Yunior Marte tossed a clean eighth, striking out one. Matt Strahm fired a clean seventh, striking out one. Jeff Hoffman was tagged with his first blown save, letting both inherited runners score while allowing two hits and striking out two in the sixth. 

Hierarchy Remains: *José Alvarado | *Jeff Hoffman | *Seranthony Domínguez

Pittsburgh Pirates – Pressed into action with two runners on and two outs, Aroldis Chapman retired his only batter-faced on a game-ending flyout, throwing only three pitches for his first save of the season, and 322nd of his career. He’s logged 2.1 innings over three outings with three strikeouts. Ryder Ryan got credit for his first hold, allowing two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out three over 1.2 innings. Roansy Contreras made his season debut as a reliever, collected his first win, and was tagged with his first blown save. He allowed two hits, including a game-tying two-run home run, and a walk while striking out three during his two-inning stint. There’s been four saves by the Pirates, David Bednar has not recorded one of them.

Hierarchy Remains: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Ryan Borucki

St. Louis Cardinals – Finishing off a four-run win in San Diego, Ryan Helsley tossed a scoreless bottom of the ninth, allowing a two-out single by Manny Machado. He threw six pitches (83.3 Strike%) with no whiffs. Even though this was a non-save outing, his velocity returned, averaging 98.3 m.p.h. with his four-seam fastball while facing the 2-3-4-5 hitters. JoJo Romero fired a clean eighth, striking out one on nine pitches (77,8 Strike%) with four whiffs (44.4 SwStr%).

Hierarchy Remains: Ryan Helsley | Giovanny Gallegos | JoJo Romero

Injury Updates (click the player’s name for the update)

Vulture Saves

For Tuesday, April 2:

  • Matt Moore (LAA)
  • Andrew Nardi (MIA)
  • Seranthony Domínguez (PHI)

Contingency Options for April 3:

  • Lucas Sims (CIN): if Alexis Díaz pitches on Tuesday
  • Giovanny Gallegos (STL): if Ryan Helsley pitches on Tuesday
  • Keegan Akin or Dillon Tate (BAL): if Craig Kimbrel pitches on Tuesday

Closer Monkey’s filthy outing of the day, Edwin Díaz in a non-save appearance, courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

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Monkey Bytes, April 1: Foley secures his second save, Two RPs record their first career save, Leclerc’s command struggles surface, Game Recaps, and more

No April’s Fool, but two of the five vulture recommendations from Sunday recorded a save, which represents a pretty good percentage in baseball averages. It was an odd slate, providing some strange moves in high-leverage events because of fatigue or workload management situations. Focusing on the most pertinent moments first, Monkey Bytes recaps will be split by league after.

Detroit Tigers – Once again, fantasy favor fell upon Jason Foley. He took over a one-run contest facing two right-handed hitters and retired both for his second save of the season. He only threw seven pitches (57.1 Strike%) without a whiff. He turned in 1.1 clean frames with two strikeouts. Tyler Holton fired 1.1 clean innings, striking out four on 19 pitches (13 strikes – 68.4 Strike%) with two whiffs while collecting his first win. Andrew Chafin suffered his first blown save, serving up a game-tying solo home run by Paul DeJong in the seventh. The depth in this leverage ladder makes this a dangerous team with a lead after the sixth inning. There’s not guarantee Foley will remain atop the bullpen hierarchy, but ride the wave while it lasts “Mullet Militia“.

Hierarchy Remains: *Jason Foley | *Shelby Miller | *Andrew Chafin

Boston Red Sox – Not only did Justin Slaten strand two inherited runners in the seventh, but he logged 2.1 clean frames for his first career save. He only needed 15 pitches (80 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%). Joely Rodríguez allowed a hit during two-thirds scoreless in the seventh. Greg Weissert tossed a scoreless sixth, giving up a hit and striking out one. As for the daily Kenley Jansen update, Ian Browne provided this tweet before today’s game in Seattle, but it was cryptic, and the closer was needed for a save. Consider him day-to-day moving forward, unless a clearer update surfaces. 

Tentative Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Chris Martin | Josh Winckowski

Pittsburgh Pirates – Another extra-inning affair in Miami ended with Hunter Stratton recording his first career save. He navigated around a hit while stranding the “place” runner for a scoreless 10th and recorded one strikeout on 15 pitches (80 Strike%) with four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%). David Bednar suffered his first blown save but collected his first win, serving up a game-tying solo home run (Nick Gordon) and striking out two in the bottom of the ninth. He threw 12 pitches (83.3 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (41.7 SwStr%). Aroldis Chapman notched his first hold, firing a clean eighth and striking out two, throwing 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) with four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%). Ryan Borucki secured his second hold, retiring the side in order in the seventh and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Ryan Borucki

Texas Rangers – Entering a tied game in the top of the ninth, José Leclerc struggled with his command, resulting in his first loss. He allowed one hit, four earned runs, and three walks over two-thirds of an inning. He threw 28 pitches (42.9 Strike%) and produced three whiffs.

After two outings, he owns an inflated 3.60 WHIP over 1.2 innings. Jacob Latz replaced him, letting all three inherited runners score on two hits during his one-third of an inning. Yerry Rodríguez tossed two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and two walks while striking out two. José Ureña logged 2.1 scoreless frames, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: José Leclerc | Kirby Yates | David Robertson

American League Recaps (March 31)

Chicago White Sox – Taking over with two runners on, Tim Hill let one score on a go-ahead RBI single by Andy Ibañez, and issued a walk during his one-third of an inning. Steven Wilson absorbed his first loss, allowing a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the ninth. Michael Kopech shoved, firing 1.2 clean frames and striking out three on 17 pitches (16 strikes – 94.1 Strike%) while inducing four whiffs (23.5 Strike%). John Brebbia gave up a hit and struck out one in two-thirds combined innings. Tanner Banks worked a scoreless combined inning, walking one and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: *Michael Kopech | *John Brebbia | Jordan Leasure

Houston Astros – Appearing for the third time in four days, Josh Hader suffered his first loss, allowing two hits, including a go-ahead RBI single by Juan Soto, and striking out two in the top of the ninth. He threw 25 pitches (60 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (12 SwStr%). Bryan Abreu bounced back with 1.1 scoreless frames, giving up two hits and striking out two. Tayler Scott tossed a scoreless combined innings, issuing a walk and striking out three.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

Los Angeles Angels -Save number one for Carlos Estévez, firing a clean bottom of the ninth while preserving a three-run win. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) without a whiff. José Soriano logged three scoreless frames, allowing a hit and two walks while striking out two. He threw 34 pitches (22 strikes – 64.7 Strike%) and induced four whiffs (11.8 SwStr%) for his first hold. Also, good news from the injuries and roster moves page on MLB.com regarding Robert Stephenson. He threw last Thursday and will again on Monday in Miami. He hopes he can return by the end of April. 

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | José Soriano

New York Yankees – Hanging on for his third save, Clay Holmes navigated around two hits with a ground out and two flyouts for a scoreless ninth, preserving a one-run win. He threw 17 pitches (58.8 Strike%) without a whiff. He owns a 1.67 WHIP through his first three innings. Nick Burdi collected his first win, retiring both batters faced in the eighth, recording one strikeout. Caleb Ferguson tossed a scoreless combined inning, walking one and striking out one. Jonathan Loáisiga suffered his first blown save, letting his only inherited runner score while conceding three hits and a walk while striking out one in his combined inning.

Hierarchy Remains: Clay Holmes | Ian Hamilton | Jonathan Loáisiga

Oakland A’s – After navigating around a hit and a walk for a scoreless ninth, with a hat tip for his catcher (Shea Langeliers) picking off a runner at third, Dany Jiménez picked up his first win of the season courtesy of a walk-off in the bottom of the frame. He threw 15 pitches (8 strikes – 53.3 Strike%) without getting a whiff. Austin Adams suffered his first blown save, letting his only inherited runner score, allowing a hit, an unearned run, and striking out one. Lucas Erceg received credit for a hold despite giving up two hits, two runs (one earned), and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: *Mason Miller | *Dany Jiménez | *Lucas Erceg

National League Recaps (March 31)

Arizona Diamondbacks – Finishing off a four-run win, Kevin Ginkel allowed a hit while recording three strikeouts. He threw 22 pitches (14 strikes – 63.6 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%). Through two outings, he owns a 1.00 WHIP with three strikeouts. Ryan Thompson tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit. Scott McGough worked two scoreless frames, yielding a hit.

Hierarchy Remains: Kevin Ginkel | Ryan Thompson | Scott McGough

Chicago Cubs – Putting the bow on a four-run victory, Adbert Alzolay fired a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out two. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (25 SwStr%). Hector Neris collected his first win, giving up a hit and striking out two in a scoreless bottom of the eighth. Julian Merryweather logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out two. Mark Leiter Jr. tossed a scoreless fifth, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Adbert Alzolay | Hector Neris | Julian Merryweather

Cincinnati Reds – Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Lucas Sims collected his first win after retiring the side in order in the top of the ninth on an efficient 12 pitches (75 Strike%) without a whiff. Fernando Cruz fired a clean eighth, striking out one on eight pitches (62.5 Strike%) with a whiff while stranding two of three inherited runners. Tejay Antone did not record an out, allowing a hit, an earned run, and two walks. Buck Farmer gave up two hits, including a solo home run, and a walk while striking out one in the seventh. Emilio Pagán fired a clean sixth, striking out two. 

Hierarchy Remains: Alexis Díaz | Lucas Sims | Emilio Pagán

Los Angeles Dodgers – Recording his first save since July 5, 2023, Daniel Hudson closed out a one-run comeback win over the Cardinals with a clean ninth, striking out two. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (31.3 SwStr%). Through two outings, he’s recorded a win and a save. Nabil Crismatt logged two scoreless frames, giving up a hit and striking out three for his first win during his team debut. Alex Vesia worked into, and out of trouble, issuing two walks, hitting a batter, and allowing an unearned run while striking out two in the sixth. 

Hierarchy Remains: Evan Phillips | Joe Kelly | Daniel Hudson

Miami Marlins – Things went awry early on for Tanner Scott. He took over a tied game in the top of the 10th, but did not field a bunt cleanly, allowing runners on the corners, and never recovered, suffering his first loss. He gave up a hit (squeeze bunt), two runs (zero earned), and a walk while striking out three. He threw 27 pitches (20 strikes – 74.1 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He owns a 2.00 WHIP with a 5:3 K:BB over his first two innings. Vladimir Gutierrez suffered his first blown save, allowing three hits, three earned runs, and two walks while striking out four over four innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Tanner Scott | Anthony Bender | Andrew Nardi

Milwaukee Brewers – Filling in affably in the ninth, Joel Payamps retired the side in order, recording one strikeout for his first save. He threw 11 pitches (81.8 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%). He’s posted two clean outings with three strikeouts. Bryan Hudson worked three scoreless frames, scattering two hits and striking out four on 37 pitches (26 strikes – 70.3 Strike%) with four whiffs for his first hold.

Hierarchy Remains: *Abner Uribe | *Joel Payamps | Trevor Megill

Philadelphia Phillies – A resilient outing by José Alvarado, nailing down his first save and preserving a one-run win over Atlanta while facing the 4-5-6 lineup pocket. He threw 13 pitches (69.2 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). This outing cut his bloated ERA in half. Gregory Soto retired his only batter faced, stranding two runners in the eighth for his first hold. Seranthony Domínguez got credit for his first hold, giving up three hits and an earned run while striking out two. Matt Strahm collected his first win, allowing a hit and striking out two in a scoreless seventh. Jeff Hoffman fired a clean sixth, recording two strikeouts on 14 pitches (64.3 Strike%) without a whiff.

Hierarchy Remains: *José Alvarado | *Jeff Hoffman | *Seranthony Domínguez

San Diego Padres –  In ascending order of appearances, Pedro Avila collected his first win, allowing a hit, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out two over three innings. Yuki Matsui tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and striking out one. He threw 13 pitches (6 strikes – 46.2 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). Wandy Peralta turned in a scoreless ninth, yielding a hit.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Yuki Matsui | Wandy Peralta

Washington Nationals – Rough outing alert for Kyle Finnegan. He suffered his first loss and blown-save, giving up three hits, including two home runs, and three earned runs over two-thirds of the ninth. He threw 20 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. Hunter Harvey tossed a scoreless eighth, allowing a hit and striking out one for his first hold. Dylan Floro worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out one during his first hold. Robert Garcia navigated around two hits for a scoreless sixth, recording one strikeout.

Hierarchy Remains: Kyle Finnegan | Hunter Harvey | Matt Barnes

Monday’s Vulture Save Candidates

  • Aroldis Chapman (PIT)
  • Ryan Pressly (HOU)
  • Ian Hamilton (NYY)
  • Jordan Weems (WSH)

Closer Monkey’s filthy sequence of the day goes to Aroldis Chapman facing Jazz Chisolm Jr. on Sunday, courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

Until next time, stay safe and be well.

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Mining saves from the wire, March 29

There’s a fine line between securing saves early in the season on the waiver wire and overreacting to small sample circumstances. Going through relievers available across three sites (CBS, ESPN, and Yahoo), our first waiver wire column will do its best to sort through the best available options. Please remember, your team build determines if any of these moves will be necessary, do not make changes on a whim, but based on necessity. **Availability percentages based on results at 10 a.m. EST, March 29**

CBS Most Added Relievers

  • Kevin Ginkel (ARI): Available in 52 percent of leagues
  • Griffin Jax (MIN): Available in 64 percent of leagues

One could catch lightning in a bottle by adding Ginkel, who will be a priority add for teams who lost Paul Sewald (oblique) until at least mid-May, perhaps into June. Jax will work in a match-up-based leverage ladder, but recorded his team’s first save of the season, which will increase his price point in leagues with free agency acquisition budgets (FAAB).

CBS Closers on the Wire

  • Carlos Estévez (LAA): Available in 34 percent of leagues
  • Kyle Finnegan (WSH): Available in 55 percent of leagues
  • Will Smith (KCR): Available in 60 percent of leagues

Those in deeper formats would love seeing saves on waivers, but these three have their warts. Still, those in need of early saves can weather the storm with one of these three options, listed in order of preference.

CBS Save Streamers

  • Jason Foley (DET): Available in 91 percent of leagues
  • Michael Kopech (CWS): Available in 66 percent of leagues
  • Yimi García (TOR): Available in 85 percent of leagues

Foley secured his team’s first save, but his manager hinted at lineup pockets being his guide in the leverage innings. One can add him with the understanding he’s in a potential save share, not the closer. Kopech falls under the same circumstance, but he pitched in the eighth inning with his team down by one. He could accrue save chances, but he’s in a much weaker leverage ladder on a bad team. Toronto prefers mixing and matching without Jordan Romano, who can be activated as soon as April 9, so tread lightly if adding García.

ESPN Five below 50 Worth Adding

  1. Robert Suarez (SDP): Available in 52 percent of leagues, he’s MLB’s leader in saves. There were concerns about him being the closer, so far, he’s dispelled them.
  2. Kevin Ginkel (ARI): Available in 87 percent of leagues. He will be his team’s closer for potentially the next two months. If he performs well, maybe more.
  3. Carlos Estévez (LAA): Available in 63 percent of leagues. Although he’s a ratio risk, another strong first half makes this an easy choice for saves, though the ghost of Robert Stephenson lingers.
  4. Griffin Jax (MIN): Available in 91 percent of leagues. More of a short-term option, though there’s no timeline for Jhoan Durán’s return, it’s projected for mid-May.
  5. Kyle Finnegan (WSH): Available in 73 percent of leagues, the streaky closer for the Nationals does not curry fantasy fervor, but he’s atop his team’s hierarchy.

One stash and One flier for ESPN Leagues

  • Hector Neris (CHC): Available in 84 percent of leagues, he was a target in the offseason and if Adbert Alzolay struggles early, Neris could emerge with the primary save share.
  • Jason Foley (DET): Available in 91 percent of leagues, he was not on fantasy radars for saves until he closed out a one-run, shutout win over the White Sox. Add for ancillary saves, and profit if he earns a larger share.

Yahoo Adds, Tier One

  • Kevin Ginkel (ARI): Available in 39 percent of leagues
  • Carlos Estévez (LAA): Available in 31 percent of leagues
  • Kyle Finnegan (WSH): Available in 41 percent of leagues
  • Griffin Jax (MIN): Available in 31 percent of leagues

Yahoo Adds, Tier Two (Ancillary Save Options)

  • Aroldis Chapman (PIT): Available in 64 percent of leagues
  • Jason Foley (DET): Available in 84 percent of leagues
  • Abner Uribe (MIL): Available in 74 percent of leagues
  • Joel Payamps (MIL): Available in 48 percent of leagues
  • Yimi García (TOR): Available in 75 percent of leagues

Yahoo Relievers to Stash

  • Hector Neris (CHC): Available in 58 percent of leagues
  • James McArthur (KCR): Available in 82 percent of leagues

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

Statistical Credits:

Yahoo Most Added RPs

CBS Most Added RPs

ESPN RP Roster Percentages on Fantasy Pros