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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Monkey Bytes, March 29: Foley records the first Tigers save, Suarez notches his second, Jax owns the ninth, Game Recaps, and more

Closer hijinks should be expected on Opening Day. However, things were a bit frenetic as the first window of games concluded. Recaps from these outcomes, along with the high-leverage notes of interest get covered in today’s Monkey Bytes.

Detroit Tigers – It did not take long for some chaos on Opening Day courtesy of A.J. Hinch. With one out and a 1-0 lead, Jason Foley took over against the White Sox’s second and third hitters, retiring both on strikeouts for his first save of the season. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%). Andrew Chafin notched his first hold, firing 1.1 clean frames and recording two strikeouts. Shelby Miller also secured his first hold with a clean seventh, striking out one. After the game, Hinch explained his thought process on the high-leverage usage pattern against the White Sox in the attached video. Those with Alex Lange on their roster will be frustrated, but if the team’s deploying a match-up-based approach, he and Foley will be accruing saves this year. Wait a week and see how this all plays out moving forward.

Adjusted Hierarchy: *Alex Lange | *Jason Foley | Andrew Chafin

San Diego Padres – Racking up his league-leading second save, Robert Suarez served up a solo home run (Michael Conforto) and recorded a strikeout, preserving a two-run win over the Giants. He threw nine pitches (88.9 Strike%) with one whiff (11.1 SwStr%). Yuki Matsui collected his first major league win, retiring all four batters faced, but received credit for 1.2 innings courtesy of sacrifice double play. Jhony Brito suffered his second blown save, giving up three hits and two earned runs over one-third of the seventh. Tom Cosgrove fired a clean sixth, striking out two for his first hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Yuki Matsui | Wandy Peralta

Minnesota Twins – Nailing down his first save, Griffin Jax worked around a lead-off walk (Bobby Witt Jr.) by retiring the next three batters and recording one strikeout. He threw 18 pitches (11 strikes – 61.1 Strike%) while generating three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). Brock Stewart tossed a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit for his first hold. If the Royals heart of the order arrived in the eighth inning, this may have been a different leverage plan. Plan on Jax being the primary save share, with highest-leveraged reliever tendencies (“fireman“).

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

Quick Hits (Game Recaps from March 28)

American League

Boston Red Sox – Career save number 421 for Kenley Jansen, and his first of the season. He worked around a lead-off walk by retiring the next three batters, two via strikeout. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%). Chris Martin secured his first hold, allowing a hit and striking out two in a scoreless eighth. Joely Rodríguez got credit for his first hold, letting an inherited runner score on a home run and striking out two in the seventh. Isaiah Campbell recorded his first hold, giving up a hit and an earned run while striking out one in a combined inning of relief.

Houston Astros – Making a strong team debut, Josh Hader fired a clean top of the ninth, striking out the side during a one-run loss. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) getting three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%). Tayler Scott worked a scoreless eighth, walking one and striking out one. Ryan Pressly suffered his first loss, allowing two hits, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one in the seventh. Rafael Montero gave up a hit and an earned run in the sixth resulting in his first blown save.

New York Yankees – Capping a comeback victory, Clay Holmes navigated around three hits for a scoreless ninth. He threw eight pitches (5 strikes – 62.5 Strike%) and benefited from a runner being thrown out at home on a single by Kyle Tucker by Juan Soto. Ian Hamilton recorded his first hold, giving up a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth. Jonathan Loáisiga collected his first win, logging two scoreless frames while scattering four hits and striking out one.

Texas Rangers – Benefiting from a walk-off rally, David Robertson collected his first win. He worked a scoreless top of the 10th, navigating around two walks (one intentional) and striking out one. José Leclerc allowed an earned run in the ninth, giving up two walks and uncorking a wild pitch while striking out one. He threw 25 pitches (48 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (12 SwStr%). Kirby Yates fired a clean eighth, striking out one, taking on a left-handed heavy-hitting pocket. Josh Sborz worked around two hits for a scoreless seventh, recording two strikeouts.

National League

Chicago Cubs – Suffering his first loss, Drew Smyly allowed a hit, an unearned run, and two walks over two-thirds of the 10th inning. Adbert Alzolay suffered his first blown save, serving up a game-tying solo home run (Travis Jankowski) and issuing a walk in the bottom of the ninth. He threw 20 pitches (55 Strike%) with no whiffs. Hector Neris tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one. Mark Leiter Jr. logged 1.2 clean frames, striking out three.

Los Angeles Dodgers – Taking the baton from Tyler Glasnow, an old-school save for Ryan Yarbrough logging three scoreless frames, allowing a hit, and striking out one, while closing out a six-run win over the Cardinals.

Miami Marlins – Despite a heroic effort, Declan Cronin suffered his first loss, allowing a hit, an unearned run, and two walks (one intentional) while striking out three, covering all three extra stanzas. Tanner Scott worked a scoreless ninth, walking two and striking out two. He threw 26 pitches (11 strikes – 42.3 Strike%) and induced four whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). Sixto Sánchez made his first major league appearance since the NLDS in 2020, allowing a game-tying home run (Oneil Cruz), resulting in his first blown save. Anthony Bender held on for his first hold, tossing a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one. Andrew Nardi got credit for a hold but gave up two hits and two earned runs while recording two strikeouts over two-thirds-combined innings.

Pittsburgh Pirates – Converting his first save of the season and his career, Jose Hernandez stranded the “place” runner while retiring the side in order in the bottom of the 12th. Luis L. Ortiz collected his first win, tossing two scoreless innings and handing out two intentional walks. Aroldis Chapman fired a clean ninth, striking out one, keeping the game tied. He threw eight pitches (87.5 Strike%) with one whiff. Ryan Borucki retired all four batters faced and recorded one strikeout. Hunter Stratton gave up a hit and struck out one over two-thirds of the seventh. After the game, it was reported David Bednar (lat) was not available in this contest by Jason Mackey on “X”.

Closer Monkey’s filthy pitch of the day goes to Jason Foley, firing his “turbo sinker” at 100-plus m.p.h., courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

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Monkey Bytes, March 28: Burning question(s) for all 30 teams

It’s the calm before the storm, with Opening Day upon us. Every team starts this season with hopes and aspirations, along with the fantasy community. Because there are no results worth sharing, going through each team’s high-leverage questions before games count makes sense. These will be split by league. Enjoy.

American League

Baltimore Orioles

With Félix Bautista out for the season, can the revamped leverage ladder preserve leads for Craig Kimbrel?

The good news, Dillon Tate and Danny Coulombe turned in strong spring outings. The bad news, Cionel Pérez, and Jacob Webb did not. A key for the bullpen will be Yennier Cano not suffering a sophomore slump.

Boston Red Sox

Can Kenley Jansen stay healthy and boost his cutter velocity once games count? Who will he be traded to?

Most forget Jansen converted 29 of 33 save chances last year, though this snapped his streak of recording at least 30 saves over a full 162-game season since 2014. He and Chris Martin will be unrestricted free agents at the end of the year, so it’s a matter of when, not if each gets moved ahead of the trade deadline. This brings up the last question, will Liam Hendriks secure a save in 2024?

Chicago White Sox

Who receives the first save chance? Can a reliever emerge with the primary save share?

No matter who the fantasy community prefers gets save chances, it’s the manager’s decision. After showing strong results in spring appearances as a reliever, will Pedro Grifol deploy Michael Kopech as his closer?

Cleveland Guardians

Will Emmanuel Clase post a third straight year with at least 40 saves?

His 110 saves since the start of 2021 ranks first among all relievers. Yes, he suffered 12 blown saves last year. Can his slider perform more like 2022 (27.5 swinging strike percentage) versus last year’s results (16.4 percent swinging strike rate)? If yes, he’s as stable as they come for saves.

Detroit Tigers

Will Alex Lange throw enough first-pitch strikes and rein in his command unlocking a career year? Or, will he lose his grip on the preferred save share in his hierarchy?

Lange finished spring with an encouraging 62.5 strike percentage, which would represent a career-best in the category. It’s a very limited sample, but a point of emphasis in his off-season training. He’s a different pitcher when ahead in counts, which unlocks the door to his devastating change-up (18.7 percent swinging strike rate) and curve (23.4 swinging strike percentage). If he struggles, Jason Foley or Shelby Miller could move atop the bullpen hierarchy, but time will tell if it’s necessary.

Houston Astros

Beat writers for the Astros call Josh Hader, Ryan Pressly, and Bryan Abreu a dominant triumvirate, can they overcome a weak leverage bridge or will they wear down as the season ensues?

It’s been encouraging seeing Hader throw more sliders, which could increase his strikeout rate this season. However, Abreu finished the spring with a bloated 2.63 WHIP and seven strikeouts versus six walks over 5.1 innings. He’s also sitting a m.p.h. below his normal average fastball velocity. If he’s pitching through an injury or the struggles linger into the season, this already shaky leverage ladder gets even shakier.

Kansas City Royals

How long does Will Smith remain atop the hierarchy?

Adding veteran southpaw, and three-time World Champion Smith on the roster provides veteran leadership in the bullpen. But he struggled in the second half and was not a factor during his team’s postseason run. It feels like he’s a stopgap in the ninth, not a solution. This situation feels like the Cubs last year, meaning it may only be a matter of time until James McArthur takes over as the closer by June. Time will tell.

Los Angeles Angels

When does Robert Stephenson make his debut? Can Carlos Estévez remain atop the hierarchy until the trade deadline?

Riding the wave of a dominant second half with the Rays last year, Stephenson signed a three-year deal with the Angels as the closer of the future. He did not appear in a spring contest while dealing with shoulder discomfort in camp. He’s throwing on the side, but there’s no timeline for his team debut. Estévez was dominant in the first half last year, then regression fueled by fatigue harpooned his results after the All-Star break. He begins the year as the closer, but was two-to-four m.p.h. down with his fastball velocity this spring. Stay tuned.

Minnesota Twins

Who gets the first save chance this year? Will Griffin Jax be the team’s most valuable reliever this year?

Acknowledging most spring numbers may not matter, one cannot overlook Jax’s robust 12:0 K:BB through 7.2 scoreless frames with a 0.39 WHIP and a 30.2 swinging strike percentage. He may not be the interim closer and operate as the HLR, but his potential breakout season will help keep Jhoan Durán healthy when he returns and his role as the closer. Brock Stewart remains on the radar in deeper formats since he may accrue ancillary saves with Durán on the injured list.

New York Yankees

Which reliever replaces Michael King and who becomes the primary set-up reliever for Clay Holmes?

Early in the spring, it seemed like Ian Hamilton would be the natural replacement for King in this leverage ladder. He can log multiple-inning outings with strikeout upside or take on an opponent’s toughest lineup pocket before the ninth. However, with Tommy Kahnle on the injured list, Hamilton may be the eighth-inning cog and not cede the role. It’s also been reported Jonathan Loásiga will man a multi-inning relief role, then receive two days off before his next outing. If things go sideways, Holmes, Kahnle, and Loáisiga will be free agents at the end of the season. This ride may get bumpy, especially if the starting pitchers do not work deep into games with Gerrit Cole sidelined.

Oakland A’s

Will Mark Kotsay use Mason Miller as the closer?

This one’s a slam-dunk question since it determines the fantasy ceiling for the most talented pitcher on this team’s roster. Multiple beat writers have insinuated this will be his role, but until he receives early save chances, it causes apprehension for fantasy players. However, Miller posted a 14:2 K:BB (40 K-BB percentage) with a 57.1 ground-ball percentage, and 25.8 swinging strike percentage this spring. Facing major league lineups will be tougher, but his stuff should play as a high-leverage reliever. Health remains his final hurdle to clear.

Seattle Mariners

Can the Opening Day relievers be effective until Matt Brash and Gregory Santos return?

One of the most popular speculative relievers was Brash in the preseason, but his helium was tempered by an elbow issue. He’s at least three weeks away from appearing with the Mariners, and Santos may not be ready until mid-May. In the interim, the team needs strong performances from Ryne Stanek, Gabe Speier, Trent Thornton, Tayler Saucedo, and Austin Voth. Feeling lucky or will Andrés Muñoz be sleepless in Seattle?

Tampa Bay Rays

Will Pete Fairbanks follow up last year’s career bests with more innings and saves this year?

In 2023, Fairbanks set career highs in appearances (49), innings (45.1), strikeouts (68), and saves (25). His breakout dispelled the myth about the team using multiple relievers for saves rather than a primary save share. Will he remain healthy in 2024?

Texas Rangers

Does José Leclerc remain the closer for the entirety of 2024? Will Texas produce a better save percentage this season?

For Leclerc, it’s all about velocity and command. Throwing strikes unleashes his slider for strikeouts. Working behind in counts results in traffic, which represents tightrope walks during high-leverage events. Despite winning the World Series, this bullpen only converted 47.6 percent of its save chances. Less than optimal.

Toronto Blue Jays

Who gets the first save this season? When will Jordan Romano (elbow) and Erik Swanson (forearm) return?

Late injury news during spring training creates anxiety for fantasy players. Although the team maintains the MRIs for its top leverage options were clean, both will open the season on the injured list. Yimi García and Chad Green project as the most likely options for saves in their stead. But, this will be a different leverage ladder with Wes Parsons and Nate Pearson active instead of Romano and Swanson.

National League

Arizona Diamondbacks

Will this bullpen withstand the loss of Paul Sewald (oblique) early on?

Even though manager Torey Lovullo refused to name a replacement for Sewald, fantasy players will focus on Kevin Ginkel. He recorded six wins, two saves, a 0.96 WHIP, and 36 strikeouts over his last 27.2 innings last year. He’s capable of filling in for Sewald, but getting him the ball in the ninth may be a challenge at times unless Ryne Nelson, Scott McGough, and Miguel Castro step up.

Atlanta Braves

Does Raisel Iglesias remain healthy all season?

Despite missing time last year with a shoulder injury, Iglesias notched 33 saves in only 58 appearances. During his time in Atlanta, he owns a 98:20 K:BB (23.6 K-BB percentage), a 1.07 WHIP, and secured 34 saves across 82 innings.

Chicago Cubs

How well does Adbert Alzolay do in his second season atop the hierarchy?

It was a tale of two halves for Alzolay during his first full season as a reliever. In the first half, he posted a 24.8 K-BB percentage, a 2.80 SIERA, and a 0.92 WHIP. After the All-Star break, his K-BB percentage slipped to 16.3 percent with a 3.82 SIERA, and 1.18 WHIP. He also missed time with forearm tightness in September. His injury issues from the past should be ignored, but he’s still the best option for saves in this leverage ladder.

Cincinnati Reds

Will the real Alexis Díaz please stand up, please stand up?

Through September 15 last year, he owned a 2.10 ERA with 36 saves after 66 appearances. After this, his results cratered though fatigue was a contributing factor. But, his K-BB percentage declined by the month down the stretch. He also turned in a rough spring, so he enters the season under the microscope of many fantasy players.

Colorado Rockies

Who leads this team in saves at the end of the year?

After a spring competition for the closer role, Patrick Saunders of the Denver Post wrote the team has “penciled” in Justin Lawrence as the primary save share but speculated Tyler Kinley could also factor in early save chances. Meanwhile, Daniel Bard continues his rehab for a return in May. This role may change hands multiple times this year.

Los Angeles Dodgers

How do the veterans hold up under the pitch clock rules in 2024?

Since most relievers adapted to the rules changes enacted last year, Blake Treinen and Daniel Hudson did not, missing the majority of 2023. They will be factors in this leverage ladder but may wear down or require injured list stints throughout the season. Brusdar Graterol opens the year on it with shoulder and hip soreness. If this unit loses veteran relievers, the team will be very active ahead of the trade deadline. Thankfully, Evan Phillips remains one of the most under appreciated relievers in baseball. For a second straight season he logged at least 60 appearances, produced 60 strikeouts over 60-plus innings, and owned a WHIP below one. He’s the only qualified reliever to do this over the last two years.

Miami Marlins

Can Tanner Scott carry over his command gains? Will he be traded ahead of the deadline? If yes, who replaces him as the primary save share?

Scott became the second reliever in team history with at least 100 strikeouts last year and tied for the most multiple-strikeout outings in the National League with 32. From August first-on, owned a 5-1 record while converting 10 of 12 save opportunities with a 33:3 K:BB (29.7 K-BB percentage) over 27.1 innings, a 0.70 WHIP, 0.99 ERA, 2.16 SIERA, 72 Strike percentage, and 18.2 swinging strike rate. After a rough spring, can he maintain some of these gains? He’s an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season, so which reliever(s) pitch well this year could be replacements in waiting for saves in August. Stay tuned.

Milwaukee Brewers

Who gets the first save chance? The second? The third?

See a theme here? What seemed like one of the easiest leverage ladders to predict became one of the toughest when Devin Williams was diagnosed with three stress fractures in his back. Add in a new manager who suggested a match-up-based approach in the high-leverage innings and it’s chaos for fantasy players. Now we await if it’s Joel Payamps, Abner Uribe, or Trevor Megill receiving the save chances, but it could be all three.

New York Mets

Will the trumpets returning be enough for this leverage ladder?

Displaying no signs of rust after missing 2023, Edwin Díaz will be the team’s closer and remains one of the best at his craft. However, his leverage bridge may be shaky at times, and this will affect his save total if they do not pitch well.

Philadelphia Phillies

Does any reliever represent the primary save share or will the “floating closer” concept remain in effect?

This topic was covered in detail in yesterday’s committee post, so it will not be repeated. Some asked about Orion Kerkering as well. He will be a leverage factor but will open the year on the injured list after missing most of training camp because of illness. Which sets his clock back for earning a larger role in this bullpen.

Pittsburgh Pirates

Is David Bednar ready for Opening Day? Should the velocity readings by Aroldis Chapman in his last spring outing be a concern? Who sets up for these two?

Will two spring outings be enough for Bednar? His velocity was on track, but his command was a bit spotty. Chapman was four m.p.h. his normal velocity against the Yankees, hopefully, this will be a blip. The biggest worry remains the bridge relievers getting the team to save chances.

San Diego Padres

Will “Big Game” Bobby remain healthy? How will Yuki hold up?

With two games under their belt, and Robert Suarez already tied for the major league lead in saves, he’s missed time in each of the two previous seasons, will he be available all year? Yuki Matsui has impressed, but can he handle the demands of an MLB season and the travel? Most players from the NPB wear down during their transitional season.

San Francisco Giants

Does Camilo Doval find trust in his slider again?

Doval went through a rough patch last August, blowing four straight save chances. During this time, he almost stopped throwing his slider, which did not resurface until Gabe Kapler was fired. Perhaps a new voice at the helm, and being on the precipice of his Age-26 season fuels growth in his strikeout percentage.

St. Louis Cardinals

Can Ryan Helsley make it through a full season? Will his velocity spike during a regular season outing?

Usually fantasy players worry about the usage patterns for Helsely by his manager, but ahead of Opening Day, it’s more about his velocities this spring:

In an interview, the reliever said working with lower velocity was by design with eyes on remaining healthy throughout 2024. We will find out soon.

Washington Nationals

Will Kyle Finnegan fend off Hunter Harvey and remain the primary save share in 2024?

Finnegan opened 2023 as the closer, lost his grip on the role, regained it after the All-Star break, and never looked back while recording a career-best 28 saves. Despite this, many prefer Harvey as the closer of the future for this franchise. This may be an inevitability, but once the lights go on, it’s still Finnegan atop the hierarchy, for now.

Thanks for stopping by Closer Monkey on Opening Day. Until next time, stay safe and be well.

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Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com

Baseball-Reference.com

BrooksBaseball.net

Monkey Bytes, March 27: Jansen clears his last hurdle, and the final spring tune-ups for four other closers

A light game schedule on Tuesday, and all teams off on Wednesday ahead of Thursday’s “domestic” Opening Day makes this a quick post. However, more content will be provided before the season begins. One more sleep until baseball, life is good.

Boston Red Sox – Assuaging the fears of his manager, Kenley Jansen fired a clean seventh, striking out one. He threw 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (27.3 SwStr%) against three Texs substitutes for starters in the lineup. After four spring outings, he owned a 0.82 WHIP with five strikeouts and now walks over 3.2 innings. Chris Martin retired the side in order in the eighth, recording a strikeout. With its two veterans atop the leverage ladder, things calm down for the Red Sox in high-leverage events, for now. Alex Cora spoke briefly about his two veteran relievers in this post by Drew Davison for MLB.com.

Opening Day Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Chris Martin | Josh Winckowski

Los Angeles Angels – Making his final spring outing, Carlos Estévez tossed a scoreless ninth, yielding a hit and striking out one. He threw 17 pitches (12 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) with two whiffs (11.8 SwStr%). He logged eight spring appearances, posting a 0.75 WHIP with six strikeouts and zero walks through eight innings. José Cisnero worked a scoreless eighth, allowing a hit and striking out one. Luis García turned in a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out two.

Opening Day Hierarchy: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | José Cisnero

San Francisco Giants –  It can be tough making an appearance in an exhibition with Opening Day looming. Camilo Doval gave up two hits and an earned run while striking out in his last outing this spring. He threw 22 pitches (63.6 Strike%) with three whiffs (13.6 SwStr%). Through six games, he owned a 1.17 WHIP with seven strikeouts versus two walks over six innings. Taylor Rogers and his twin, Tyler, each retired both batters faced, one via strikeout.

Opening Day Hierarchy: Camilo Doval | Taylor Rogers | Tyler Rogers

St. Louis Cardinals – During his final preparations for the regular season, Ryan Helsley fired a clean bottom of the ninth in a non-save situation, recording one strikeout. He wraps his preseason with a 1.11 WHIP and 11 strikeouts versus six walks. JoJo Romero retired the side in order in the eighth, striking out one. Andrew Kittredge allowed a solo home run and produced three strikeouts in the seventh. Giovanny Gallegos worked a scoreless sixth, giving up a hit and striking out two.

Opening Day Hierarchy: Ryan Helsley | Giovanny Gallegos | JoJo Romero

Texas Rangers – Making his final spring training appearance, José Leclerc served up a solo home run, issued a walk, and registered one strikeout. He threw 19 pitches (12 strikes – 63.2 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (15.8 SwStr%). He ends the spring with a 1.69 WHIP and 8:4 K:BB over 5.1 innings.

Opening Day Hierarchy: José Leclerc | David Robertson | Josh Sborz

Closer Monkey’s filthy outing of the day goes to Mason Miller, although it happened on Tuesday night, courtesy of the Pitching Ninja. There are no guarantees regarding his role but in Martín Gallegos’ Athletics 2024 season preview, this note appeared:

Links will be provided throughout the season, but our premium subscribers get blurbs like Miller’s above directly attached, Statcast charts, and deeper insight in their daily emails. Treat yourself to this service for a one-time $20 donation to the site.

Until next time, stay safe and be well.

Monkey Bytes, March 25:

With Opening Day three sleeps away, we will be shifting from Spring Vibes into this new format for the regular season.

Chicago White Sox – A tough day for this leverage ladder. Deivi García allowed two hits, including a solo home run in the bottom of the eighth. John Brebbia suffered his first loss, issuing two walks and serving up a three-run home run during the seventh. Jordan Leasure encountered adversity. He gave up four hits and two earned runs while striking out two in the sixth. This snapped his nine-game scoreless streak. He owns a 1.18 WHIP with 11 strikeouts against four walks over 9.1 innings this spring.

There’s still no word on how Pedro Grifol will structure his bullpen, but those hoping Michael Kopech receives save chances appreciate his manager’s thoughts about the reliever’s performance after being deployed as a reliever rather than starting games.

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

Boston Red Sox – Encouraging outings by the high-leverage Red Sox relievers on Sunday featured Kenley Jansen firing a clean seventh, striking out one, throwing eight pitches (87.5 Strike%). Reports suggested his cutter sat at 93 m.p.h. and he had good shape with pitches. Chris Martin retired the side in order in the eighth, recording a strikeout. Both will face Texas in an exhibition game before Opening Day, and with no setbacks, each will be ready for the season.

Projected Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Chris Martin | Josh Winckowski

Cincinnati Reds – Appearing on consecutive days did not end well for Alexis Díaz. He allowed two hits, including a three-run home run, and a walk while striking out two, resulting in his first loss. Following this outing, he owns a 1.70 WHIP this spring with 11 strikeouts versus four walks. Lucas Sims worked a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and striking out two. Emilio Pagán fired a clean seventh, striking out one. One hopes Díaz will improve once the season begins with increased adrenaline, but fantasy players should monitor his results early on, especially his WHIP and K-BB percentage.

Projected Hierarchy: Alexis Díaz | Lucas Sims | Emilio Pagán

Detroit Tigers – Logging two shutout frames, Beau Brieske secured his first spring save, scattering two hits and striking out two. He’s recorded 13.1 scoreless innings with nine strikeouts and a 0.38 WHIP through seven appearances. Will Vest collected his first win, tossing a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit, and striking out one. Alex Lange fired a clean sixth, striking out one on 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) with two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in his last five outings with seven strikeouts against one walk. Andrew Chafin retired his only batter faced, stranding a runner in the fifth.

Whether or not Lange maintains the gains he’s displayed in recent appearances, through seven innings this spring, he owns a 62.3 Strike percentage. It’s a small sample, but last year he finished with a 51 percent strike rate per Baseball Reference. His ability to throw strikes, and get ahead of hitters will determine if he keeps the primary save share in a deep, pliable leverage ladder.

Projected Hierarchy: Alex Lange | Jason Foley | Shelby Miller

Los Angeles Dodgers – During an exhibition game with the Angels, Evan Phillips fired a clean eighth, striking out the side on 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and producing four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%). With a save under his belt, he’s ready for his stateside Opening Day on Thursday. Ryan Brasier had a rough outing, giving up three hits, three earned runs, and a walk over two-thirds of the seventh. Alex Vesia retired his only batter faced in the sixth, stranding an inherited runner.

Hierarchy Remains: Evan Phillips | Joe Kelly | Daniel Hudson

Miami Marlins – Collecting his first win, Andrew Nardi logged 1.2 innings, giving up three hits and an earned run while striking out four. Tanner Scott secured his first spring hold, tossing 1.1 scoreless frames, allowing a hit, and striking out three. He threw 20 pitches (65 Strike%) and produced seven whiffs (35 SwStr%). He owns a five-game scoreless streak with six strikeouts against two walks over his last 4.2 innings. Sixto Sánchez worked two scoreless innings, yielding two hits and striking out four. Anthony Bender retired the side in order in the ninth.

Projected Hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Anthony Bender

New York Mets – With trumpets playing for his entrance, Edwin Díaz bounced back with a clean sixth, striking out one in his third spring appearance. He threw 10 pitches (70 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (30 SwStr%). He’s posted a 0.55 WHIP with five strikeouts versus two walks over 3.2 innings. His velocity was down two m.p.h. in this contest. Jake Diekman allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts in a scoreless seventh. Jorge López tossed a clean eighth, striking out one.

Projected Hierarchy: Edwin Díaz | Adam Ottavino | Brooks Raley

Pittsburgh Pirates – Rounding into form, David Bednar allowed two hits and an earned run while striking out one in the fourth inning during his second appearance this spring. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) producing one whiff. Aroldis Chapman worked around two walks for a scoreless fifth on 20 pitches (40 Strike%) getting one whiff with reduced velocity. Through six games this spring, he owns a 1.17 WHIP with seven strikeouts versus three whiffs. 

The biggest concern for this leverage ladder will be depth. There’s a chance Colin Holderman (illness) and Carmen Mlodzinski (forearm) may open the year on the injured list per Jason Mackey.

Projected Hierarchy: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Ryan Borucki

Toronto Blue Jays – During a shutout loss, Yimi García tossed a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit and striking out two. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) producing three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%). Following eight outings this spring, he owns a 0.67 WHIP with nine strikeouts versus two walks. Génesis Cabrera navigated around a hit and a walk while striking out one in the eighth. Chad Green turned in his best spring outing, striking out the side in the seventh on 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and inducing seven whiffs (50 SwStr%). He’s made eight appearances this spring, posting a 1.57 WHIP with 11 strikeouts and one walk over 7.2 innings.

Anticipated Hierarchy: Yimi García | Chad Green | Génesis Cabrera

Washington Nationals – Making his first game appearance since March 12, Kyle Finnegan suffered his first blown save, giving up three hits, two runs (one earned), and striking out one over two-thirds of the seventh. After six outings this spring, he owns a 0.94 WHIP with 10 strikeouts through 5.1 innings, but his back tightness must be monitored moving forward. The good news, he did use the slider (sweeper) discussed in a previous note:

Projected Hierarchy: Kyle Finnegan | Hunter Harvey | Matt Barnes

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Closer Monkey’s filthy pitch of the day, nasty sliders by Emmanuel Clase against the Reds on Sunday, courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

Until next time, stay safe and be well.

Statistical Credits:

Fangraphs.com | Baseball-Reference.com | BaseballSavant.com