Monkey Bytes, April 20: Megill tries for a two-inning save, Hader struggles but hangs on, Game Recaps, and more

Friday’s slate featured another postponement and only four saves among the 14 games played. Colorado and Seattle will play a doubleheader on Sunday, a less-than-ideal getaway day for the Mariners bullpen. Because of the limited amount of saves, they will take precedence in today’s Monkey Bytes with a bevy of quick hit recaps in the remaining games from last night.

Milwaukee Brewers – Notching his first major league save, Hoby Milner worked a scoreless bottom of the tenth, issuing an intentional walk (Willson Contreras) and recording two strikeouts. Joel Payamps collected his first win and suffered his second blown save, letting one of two inherited runners score on a hit batter and a walk in the bottom of the ninth. He was not fully warmed up and pressed into action early, which affected his command. Trevor Megill was credited with his second hold, logging 1.2 innings, giving up a hit, an earned run, and two walks while striking out one. He was one out away from his first career save. Elvis Peguero fired a clean seventh, striking out one for his second hold.

There were so many talking points about this usage pattern. Beginning with Megill attempting a two-inning save, a center-cut fastball against Alec Burleson knocked him from the game with his pitch count reaching 30 and runners on the corners. However, he’s firmly in the mix for save chances moving forward for a team working without a closer. Payamps outing cannot be fully placed on the reliever, he started warming up during the Burleson at-bat and entered the game abruptly, working with limited command of his secondary pitches. Pat Murphy played the match-ups game in the tenth, opting for Milner against Lars Nootbar leading off the inning, and with Nolan Gorman lurking behind Willson Contreras, who was rightfully issued an intentional walk with two outs.

Many will wonder why Abner Uribe was not used with a one-run lead, but he’s allowed 11 hits, four earned runs, and three walks over his last six outings, spanning 5.2 innings (2.46 WHIP). Roles may remain in flux moving forward, and there’s no clear-cut closer at the moment.

Updated hierarchy: *Joel Payamps | *Abner Uribe | *Trevor Megill

*= closer-by-committee

St. Louis Cardinals – Taking over in the top of the tenth, Ryan Helsley suffered his second loss, allowing a go-ahead, two-out RBI single by William Contreras, providing the difference in the contest. He threw 19 pitches (12 strikes – 63.2 Strike%) without recording a whiff. He owns a 0.91 WHIP with 12 strikeouts versus one walk through his first 11 innings. Ryan Fernandez logged 1.1 scoreless frames, walking one and striking out two. Matthew Liberatore tossed a scoreless combined inning, walking one and striking out two. Giovanny Gallegos gave up a hit and recorded two strikeouts over two-thirds scoreless in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Ryan Helsley | Andrew Kittredge | JoJo Romero

Houston Astros – Hanging on for his second save, Josh Hader labored through the ninth, giving up a lead-off triple by CJ Abrams, a sacrifice fly, an infield single, and a walk before inducing consecutive, game-ending strikeouts. He threw 30 pitches (19 strikes – 63.3 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He owns a 1.66 WHIP with 16 strikeouts versus five walks through his first 9.2 innings. Ryan Pressly notched his third hold, allowing a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth. Bryan Abreu worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one for his second hold.

As for Hader, whether he’s pressing, or just going through some bad luck, he’s recorded a 2.47 SIERA versus his current 8.38 ERA. He owns a 25.6 K-BB percentage through his first 9.2 innings and his .476 batting average on balls in play (BAbip) sits over two hundred points above his career rate (.255) in the category. Better days lie ahead, remain patient.

Hierarchy remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

Detroit Tigers – Securing his sixth save, Jason Foley worked around a two-out walk of Willi Castro with a game-ending flyout, preserving a one-run win over the Twins. He threw 20 pitches (60 Strike%), induced two whiffs, and recorded one strikeout in his outing. He owns a 1.14 WHIP with nine strikeouts versus five walks over nine innings. Andrew Chafin collected his second win, retiring all four batters faced, and stranding a runner in the bottom of the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Jason Foley | Shelby Miller | Andrew Chafin

New York Yankees – Navigating around consecutive singles during the top of the ninth, Clay Holmes induced a fly-out by Randy Arozarena, followed by a game-ending double play lineout by Richie Palacios, securing his MLB-leading eighth save. He threw 22 pitches (14 strikes – 63.6 Strike%) without a whiff. He’s converted eight of nine save chances while posting a 1.20 WHIP with six strikeouts versus one walk through 10 innings. Ian Hamilton gave up three hits, two earned runs, and a walk in the eighth, creating the save opportunity. Dennis Santana collected his first win, tossing 1.2 scoreless innings, giving up two hits and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Clay Holmes | Ian Hamilton | Victor González

Quick Hits from April 19

Chicago Cubs – Taking over in the sixth, Keegan Thompson worked two scoreless frames, walking one and striking out four. He threw 36 pitches (22 strikes – 61 Strike%) and induced eight whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). He’s posted a 0.33 WHIP over six innings with nine strikeouts versus two walks in three appearances this season.

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

Cincinnati Reds – With a one-run lead and two runners on, Fernando Cruz took over in the top of the seventh, retiring both batters via strikeout, including his first this year on a pitch other than his split-fingered fastball. He secured his fourth hold throwing 12 pitches (7 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) without a whiff. He owns a 0.75 WHIP with 17 strikeouts through his first eight innings. Lucas Sims tossed a scoreless eighth, walking one for his fourth hold.

Hierarchy remains: Alexis Díaz | Fernando Cruz / Lucas Sims

Kansas City Royals – Taking over in the sixth, John Schreiber stranded a runner while retiring his only batter faced, securing his fourth hold. Will Smith took over in the seventh, allowing four hits, including a grand slam by Adley Rutschman, and striking out one, drifting further from leverage relevance.

Hierarchy remains: James McArthur | John Schreiber | Chris Stratton

Los Angeles Dodgers – Representing one of the few weaknesses on this team, the bullpen struggled during this loss against the Mets. Taking over a tied game in the top of the seventh, Daniel Hudson allowed two runs (one earned), on a two-run, go-ahead home run by Francisco Lindor, and recorded two strikeouts, resulting in his first loss. Joe Kelly gave up three hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one in the eighth. Ryan Brasier also allowed a run in the ninth, giving up three hits and striking out one. Combined, they yielded seven hits, five runs (four earned), and a walk with four strikeouts over three innings in this contest.

Hierarchy remains: Evan Phillips | Daniel Hudson | Joe Kelly

Minnesota Twins – Suffering his first loss, Caleb Thielbar allowed two hits, including a go-ahead RBI single by Wenceel Pérez resulting in an earned run, and issued a walk while striking out two in the top of the ninth. Griffin Jax navigated around two hits for a scoreless eighth, recording two strikeouts. He threw 21 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and induced four whiffs (19 SwStr%). Brock Stewart tossed a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one.

Before the game, Jhoan Durán threw a live batting practice session and may begin a rehab assignment soon, with eyes on a return next week.

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

* =closer-by-committee

New York Mets – In an unlikely sixth inning, caused by two separate errors by Joey Wendle and a hit batter, Reed Garrett suffered his first blown save, giving up a game-tying two-out, two-RBI single by Chris Taylor, but collected his third win after a rally in the top of the seventh. Brooks Raley recorded his fourth hold, yielding a hit and striking out one in two-thirds of the seventh. Adam Ottavino notched his third hold, firing 1.1 clean frames and striking out two. He also stranded a runner in the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Edwin Díaz | Adam Ottavino | Brooks Raley

Philadelphia Phillies – Preserving a combined shutout, Orion Kerkering fired a clean top of the ninth, striking out one against the 3-4-5 hitters of the White Sox. He threw 18 pitches (13 strikes – 72.2 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%). Matt Strahm worked a scoreless eighth, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out one.

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

* = closer-by-committee

Toronto Blue Jays – Operating as the “bulk follower”, Bowden Francis collected his second win, tossing two scoreless frames, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out two in San Diego. Tim Mayza turned in a clean seventh, striking out one. Yimi García fired a clean eighth, striking out the side on 19 pitches (68.4 Strike%) and generating three whiffs (15.8 SwStr%) facing the top of the Padres lineup. Jordan Romano closed out the four-run win with a scoreless ninth, giving up a two-out single by Ha-Seong Kim before a game-ending strikeout. He threw 17 pitches (11 strikes – 64.7 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%).

Updated Hierarchy: Jordan Romano | Yimi García | Erik Swanson

Vulture Saves for Saturday, April 20

CHC: If the Cubs can produce a sweep, and the high-leverage triumvirate appears in Game 1, Yency Almonte could be a sneaky play for a vulture save in Game 2. Mark Leiter Jr. could also be a sneaky play for an ancillary save.

HOU: Hader threw 30 pitches during his save on Friday, which places Ryan Pressly potentially in line for a save on Saturday.

Unfortunately, based on recent usage patterns and weather, there are no real vulture save options for Sunday yet, it will all depend on Saturday’s slate. Colorado and Seattle will play a doubleheader on Sunday, which places Ryne Stanek, Gabe Speier, and Tayler Saucedo in contention for a vulture save if searching for a desperation play.

Closer Monkey’s filthy pitch of the day features the first strikeout by Fernando Cruz this season, not by his split-fingered fastball. He quelled a threat in the seventh by dotting this fastball against Zach Neto, courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

Thanks for being a part of the Closer Monkey community, until next time, stay safe and be well.

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Monkey Bytes, April 6: Two Bullpen Structures in Flux, Command Issues across the slate, Workload Management, and more

Friday did not feature a full slate of games but it provided a bevy of high-leverage events of interest. A.J. Hinch acknowledged frustrated fantasy players, Pete Fairbanks complained about the baseballs in Colorado, Kenley Jansen moved into sixth place all-time in saves, and vulture options too, covered in today’s Monkey Bytes.

Detroit Tigers – Just when it felt safe trusting a Tigers reliever, matching-up by lineup pockets appears. IDuring a tied game in the eighth, Jason Foley faced the 3-4-5 lineup pocket, retiring the side in order while recording two strikeouts on nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) with two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%) and collected his second win courtesy of a rally in the bottom of the frame. Andrew Chafin opened the ninth but gave up two walks while striking out one over two-thirds scoreless before getting lifted, resulting in his second hold. Alex Lange entered with two runners on, striking out his only batter faced on four pitches (75 Strike%) and getting one whiff (25 SwStr%) for his first save this season. All four of these relievers have appeared on consecutive days.

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

*=closer-by-committee

Kansas City Royals – Taking over in the top of the ninth with two runners on and one out, James McArthur induced a game-ending double play groundout by Andrew Vaughn for his first save of the season, throwing only two pitches. Will Smith gets credit for his first hold, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one in one-third of the ninth. Key here, he was pulled from this outing, which puts his “closer” role in question moving forward. Chris Stratton collected his first win, tossing a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out one. John Schreiber stranded a runner and recorded two outs in the seventh, walking one and striking out one. There’s a chance manager Mike Quatraro shifts into a match-up-based approach, but McArthur may emerge with primary save share with consistent outings moving forward. He’s the preferred addition if he was dropped or available in your league. 

Updated Hierarchy: *James McArthur | *Will Smith | John Schreiber 

* = closer-by-committee

American League (Game Recaps from April 5)

Baltimore Orioles – Nailing down his first save, Craig Kimbrel fired a clean ninth, striking out two while preserving a three-run win in Pittsburgh. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). Yennier Cano retired the side in order in the eighth, recording two strikeouts for his first hold on 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) with two whiffs (18.2 SwStr%).

Updated Hierarchy: Craig Kimbrel | Yennier Cano | Danny Coulombe

Boston Red Sox – Facing the 3-4-5 lineup pocket, Kenley Jansen converted his third save of the year, and 423rd of his career, putting him into sixth place all-time. He fired a clean ninth and recorded one strikeout on 18 pitches (13 strikes – 72.2 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless over four outings with six strikeouts versus five walks. Isaiah Campbell notched his second hold, retiring the side in order in the eighth. Chris Martin suffered his first blown save and collected his first win, giving up two hits and an earned run while striking out two. This snapped his 24-game scoreless streak, but he’s only allowed two earned runs over his last 38.2 innings.

Updated Hierarchy: Kenley Jansen | Chris Martin | Isaiah Campbell

Chicago White Sox – Still within his high-leverage learning curve, Michael Kopech suffered his first loss, issuing Salvador Perez a one-out walk, who was replaced by pinch runner Dairon Blanco, who promptly stole second base, and scored on an RBI single by MJ Melendez. Kopech bounced back recording consecutive strikeouts, but he must be more aggressive, and efficient in the strike zone. He threw 31 pitches (17 strikes – 54.8 Strike%) while producing six whiffs (19.4 SwStr%). Steven Wilson retired all four batters faced, three via strikeout on 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) with three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%). John Brebbia recorded two outs but left after re-injuring his calf. It’s being reported as minor, but he may be unavailable the rest of the weekend.

Updated Hierarchy: *Michael Kopech | *Steven Wilson | Jordan Leasure

* = closer-by-committee

Seattle Mariners – After his team rallied for two runs tying the game in the top of the ninth, Andrés Muñoz struggled in the bottom of the inning, walking four of five batters faced, suffering his first loss of the year. He threw 26 pitches (9 strikes – 34.6 Strike%) with one whiff. There were some close calls, but the strike zone was consistently tight all evening. Ryne Stanek allowed three hits and an earned run while striking out one in the eighth.

Hierarchy remains: Andrés Muñoz | Ryne Stanek | Gabe Speier

Tampa Bay Rays – In a wild finish at Coors Field, Pete Fairbanks suffered his first loss after walking all three batters faced, resulting in three earned runs against his ledger. He threw 17 pitches (29.4 Strike%) without getting a whiff. One wonders if the cold weather played a part with his Raynaud’s syndrome affecting his command issues. Jason Adam took over the bases-loaded situation, striking out his first batter faced before serving up a walk-off grand slam by Ryan McMahon, resulting in his first blown save. Colin Poche was tagged with his first blown save in the sixth, allowing three hits, including a two-run home run by Ezequiel Tovar. 

Hierarchy remains: Pete Fairbanks | Jason Adam | Colin Poche

Toronto Blue Jays – Recording his first save since May 2, 2022, Chad Green closed out his former team while navigating around two hits for a scoreless ninth, preserving a shutout win. He threw 12 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s logged three outings this year, posting a 1.50 WHIP with one strikeout over 3.1 innings. Trevor Richards fired 1.1 clean frames and recorded three strikeouts for his first hold. Génesis Cabrera secured his first hold, walking one during two-thirds scoreless in the seventh. Yimi García collected his first win, retiring both batters faced in the sixth, one via strikeout.

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

National League (Game Recaps from April 5)

Arizona Diamondbacks – Entering in the bottom of the 10th, Scott McGough suffered his loss, giving up a walk-off single by Travis d’Arnaud. Kevin Ginkel was tagged with his first blown save, allowing two hits, two runs (one earned), and recording two strikeouts over 1.1 innings. This double by Jarred Kelenic scored the game-tying run. Ginkel threw 21 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (28.6 SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains: Kevin Ginkel | Ryan Thompson | Scott McGough

Atlanta Braves – Working a scoreless top of the 10th, Pierce Johnson collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the frame. He gave up a walk and recorded two strikeouts, throwing 14 pitches (8 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and inducing two whiffs (14.3 SwStr%). Raisel Iglesias tossed a scoreless ninth, yielding a hit, needing only 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) without a whiff.

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

Chicago Cubs – Hanging on for his first save, Adbert Alzolay navigated around consecutive singles by Freddie Freeman and Will Smith by inducing a fly ball, a fielder’s choice groundout, and a game-ending lineout by James Outman. Alzolay threw 20 pitches (80 Strike%) without recording a whiff. Julian Merryweather notched his first hold, tossing 1.1 scoreless frames, but he did let both inherited runners score giving up a hit and a walk while striking out three.

Hierarchy Remains: Adbert Alzolay | Hector Neris | Julian Merryweather

Colorado Rockies – A walk-off rally featuring a Ryan McMahon grand slam, handing Jalen Beeks his first win of the season. He let his only inherited runner score in the ninth while retiring two of three batters faced. Justin Lawrence turned in an inauspicious debut, allowing a hit to five of the six batters he faced, resulting in five runs against, four earned over one-third of the ninth. Nick Mears notched his second hold, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out two in a scoreless eighth. Jake Bird worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out two for his first hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Justin Lawrence | Nick Mears | Jake Bird

Milwaukee Brewers – Handed a two-run in the top of the ninth, Abner Uribe suffered his first blown save, giving up three hits, two earned runs, and a walk. However, he collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off walk, in the bottom of the frame. He threw 25 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (12 SwStr%). He’s converted three of four save chances this season, but games like this will happen with a sinkerball pitcher. Elvis Peguero notched his first hold, working around a hit and striking out two in a scoreless eighth.

Updated Hierarchy: Abner Uribe | Joel Payamps | Elvis Peguero

New York Mets – Recording his first save of the season and first since October 4, 2022, Edwin Díaz allowed an unearned run and walked one with one strikeout in a one-run win. His outing began with an error allowing Jonathan India to reach and a walk, putting two runners on before a fielder’s choice groundout, a sacrifice fly, and a game-ending strikeout. He threw 16 pitches (9 strikes – 56.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Adam Ottavino notched his first hold, firing a clean eighth and striking out two. Brooks Raley stranded two runners for his second hold, walking one and striking out one over one-third of an inning. Drew Smith also stranded two runners but gave up two hits and recorded one strikeout over a combined inning. All four of these relievers have appeared on consecutive days.

Hierarchy remains: Edwin Díaz | Adam Ottavino | Brooks Raley

San Francisco Giants – Benefiting from a walk-off, Camilo Doval collected his first win. He worked a scoreless top of the ninth, navigating around a hit and a walk while striking out two. He threw 27 pitches (16 strikes – 59.3 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (14.8 SwStr%). Tyler Rogers retired the side in order in the eighth, recording one strikeout. 

Hierarchy remains: Camilo Doval | Tyler Rogers | Taylor Rogers

Vulture Save Options for Saturday, April 6

BOS: Jansen and Martin have appeared in three games over the last four days. Isaiah Campbell could be in line for a traditional one-inning save chance and Justin Slaten may be in play for a multiple-inning outing which could yield a vulture win or save chance.

CWS: Kopech threw 31 pitches last night, putting Steven Wilson in play for the vulture save.

DET: Because of a doubleheader on Thursday, Foley, Chafin, and Lange have worked on consecutive days, though Lange only threw four pitches on Friday. Shelby Miller logged 34 pitches across two innings on Thursday, so he may be available, but Tyler Holton working a multi-inning outing along with Alex Faedo may be necessary on Saturday.

KCR: Smith has pitched in three of the last four, which puts McArthur or Schreiber on the radar for a save chance. He’s off to a rough start, but Nick Anderson may see leverage work as well.

NYM: With the bullpen stretched thin referenced above, Jorge López emerges as the vulture save option for Saturday.

Vulture Save Options for Sunday, April 7

ATL: If Iglesias pitches on Saturday, A.J. Minter may fill in with an ancillary save on Sunday.

BAL: Monitor how the Orioles use the leverage relievers on Saturday. If Kimbrel and Cano pitch again, they will be off on Sunday, placing Keegan Akin or Jacob Webb in play for a vulture save chance.

BOS: Reports hinted Jansen pitched through a sore back on Friday, placing Chris Martin on the radar for the save chance on Sunday with a plane ride home looming after the contest.

CHC: If Alzolay pitches on Saturday, it will mean he’s worked on consecutive days, and in three of the last four, placing Hector Neris on the vulture save horizon for Sunday.

MIL: Last, but not least, if Uribe pitches again on Saturday, Joel Payamps will be the vulture target for Sunday.

Closer Monkey’s filthy pitch of the day award goes to Tyler Rogers, who confounded Graham Pauley with this slider last night, courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

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Monkey Bytes, April 5: Bednar’s on the board, Game Recaps from Thursday’s small slate, and What to Watch for this weekend

Small slates can be slippery, especially with a doubleheader involved, but some performances of interest presented themselves, including a closer recording his first save of the season.

Pittsburgh Pirates – Save number one for “The Renegade”. David Bednar fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts finishing off a three-run win over the Nationals. He threw 19 pitches (14 strikes – 73.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%). He owns a 0.33 WHIP with five strikeouts versus zero walks through his first three appearances. Aroldis Chapman took over in the eighth with two runners on and retired his only batter faced via strikeout for his second hold. This contest made team history as well. During its first five saves this season, five different relievers have secured them.

Hierarchy Remains: David Bednar | Aroldis Chapman | Ryan Borucki

Cleveland Guardians – Racking up his third save, Emmanuel Clase retired the side in order in the ninth, finishing off a two-run win in Minnesota matching up with the 9-1-2 lineup pocket. He threw 14 pitches (57.1 Strike%) and did not record a whiff. After three outings, he owns a 1.00 WHIP with two strikeouts against zero walks. Scott Barlow notched his third hold, yielding a hit and striking out three in a scoreless eighth. There’s stability in the eighth and ninth innings, but it’s been a revolving door based on availability for the bridge innings, making it tough mining holds in this leverage ladder, hopefully someone emerges in the vacated role filled by Trevor Stephan.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Scott Barlow | Tyler Beede

Detroit Tigers – (Game 1): Collecting his second win, Shelby Miller tossed two scoreless innings, stranding both “place” runners, navigating around two walks, and striking out four. He threw 34 pitches (18 strikes – 52.9 Strike%) and induced three whiffs. He owns a 0.33 WHIP with six strikeouts over six innings through four games this season. Jason Foley issued a lead-off walk (Brandon Nimmo), allowed a stolen base, recorded a strikeout, walked Pete Alonso, and produced an inning-ending double play ground-out, keeping the game tied. He only gave up 15 walks last year and never walked two during any of his 70 appearances. He threw 25 pitches (64 Strike%) with one whiff. Andrew Chafin fired a clean eighth, striking out one. Alex Lange worked a scoreless seventh, walking one and striking out two.

Detroit Tigers – (Game 2): Taking over in the sixth, Tyler Holton worked two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out one for his first hold. He has picked up where he left off last season, logging 4.1 scoreless innings with six strikeouts versus zero walks while recording a 0.46 WHIP. Alex Faedo gave up a game-tying home run to Pete Alonso, issued a walk to Brett Baty, followed by a sacrifice bunt and walk-off RBI single by Tyrone Taylor, resulting in his first loss and his first blown save.

Flexing its bullpen’s depth and pliability, the Tigers could not close out a sweep but kept its leverage relievers on regular workloads after these games.

Hierarchy Remains: Jason Foley | Shelby Miller | Andrew Chafin

New York Mets – (Game 1): Suffering his second loss, Michael Tonkin allowed four hits and three runs (two earned) while recording a strikeout in a tough luck outing. Jorge López retired the side in order in the 10th, stranding the “place” runner. Edwin Díaz fired a clean ninth, striking out two on 12 pitches (75 Strike%) and generating three whiffs (25 SwStr%). He’s posted a 0.33 WHIP with five strikeouts versus zero walks through his first three contests. Adam Ottavino was tagged with his first blown save, serving up a game-tying solo home run by Riley Greene and striking out one in the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Edwin Díaz | Adam Ottavino | Brooks Raley

St. Louis Cardinals – Securing his second save, Ryan Helsley fired a clean ninth, striking out one versus the 9-1-2 lineup pocket of Miami. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) with no whiffs. This outing lowered his WHIIP to 1.50 and he’s posted a 5:0 K:BB over four innings this season. JoJo Romero notched his second hold, retiring the side in order in the eighth, recording one strikeout. Giovanny Gallegos collected his first win, stranding a runner while retiring his only batter faced in the seventh.

Hierarchy Remains: Ryan Helsley | Giovanny Gallegos | JoJo Romero

Vulture Save Watch for Friday, April 5

STL: Ryan Helsley has appeared in three of the last four days, opening the door for a save chance by Giovanny Gallegos or JoJo Romero based on lineup pockets in today’s contest.

Vulture Save Watch for Saturday, April 6

DET: If Jason Foley pitches again on Friday, he will receive Saturday off. This opens the door for a Shelby Miller save chance, or Alex Lange, depending on how Hinch handles the leverage innings.

What to Watch For (Weekend Contests)

Kansas City Royals – Will the team give Will Smith its next save chance? Do they use a match-up-based approach? This would shift Smith into outings against left-handed hitting pockets and John Schreiber versus right-handed hitting pockets during high-leverage events. Also, will James McArthur migrate his early results toward the mean (12.00 ERA versus 3.50 SIERA) and work himself into future save chances?

Miami Marlins – Can Tanner Scott rebound from his early command issues (-5.6 K-BB%; 56.3 Strike%) and find his form from the second half last season? Andrew Nardi turned in another rough outing on Thursday and owns a 3.00 WHIP while allowing a 75 percent contact rate over his first three appearances. This leverage ladder needs stability and no one has stepped forward.

Milwaukee Brewers – Making his fourth appearance in six days resulted in a blown save for Joel Payamps. He also worked with reduced velocity based on this heavy usage pattern. With Trevor Megill on the seven-day concussion injured list, which reliever can step up in the sixth and seventh innings? Hoby Milner? Elvis Peguero?

Texas Rangers – It’s still early, but José Leclerc has not recorded a scoreless outing or a save. Kirby Yates has matched up with left-handed leaning lineup pockets while David Robertson faces right-handed hitting pockets in leverage situations. If Bochy gets an itchy trigger finger, which veteran with “closer” experience takes over the primary save share?

Closer Monkey’s filthy pitch of the day, Edwin Díaz produced an ugly whiff on this slider, courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

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Monkey Bytes, April 4: Kenley works on consecutive days, Will Smith struggles continue, Alexis Díaz records his first save, Game Recaps, and more

Wednesday’s slate provided a little bit of everything. A veteran closer moved up the all-time saves list, and a walk-off rally in Baltimore frustrated fantasy players with Cole Ragans on their roster. Plus, a closer secured his first save after a lengthy substance check in Philadelphia.

Boston Red Sox – Another white-knuckle ride in high-leverage with Kenley Jansen, but he preserved a shutout win in Oakland, navigating around two walks with a game-ending strikeout for his second save of the season. This also marked the 422nd save of his career, moving him into a tie for sixth all-time with Billy Wagner. He threw 21 pitches (10 strikes – 47.6 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. Through three appearances, he owns a 1.67 WHIP with five strikeouts versus five walks over three innings. Chris Martin notched his second hold, giving up two hits and striking out one.

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Chris Martin | Josh Winckowski

Kansas City Royals – Spoiling a strong start by Cole Ragans, closer Will Smith suffered his second loss and first blown save during a walk-off rally in Baltimore. His outing began with a lead-off walk to Ryan Mountcastle, a high-leverage mortal sin, followed by a single, sacrifice bunt, and an intentional walk loading the bases. After recording a strikeout, he gave up a two-RBI single by James McCann. Smith threw 17 pitches (7 strikes – 41.2 Strike%) with two whiffs (11.8 SwStr%) working with reduced velocity. Angel Zerpa let both inherited runners score on a sacrifice fly and a single while recording two outs in the eighth for his first hold. James McArthur stranded two runners in the seventh, but struggled in the eighth, giving up two hits and two earned runs. He got credit for his first hold but owns a 2.33 WHIP through his first three innings this season. It’s a small sample, but stashing John Schreiber for a future save chance feels warranted given Smith’s early struggles and drop in velocity.

Hierarchy Tentative Remains: Will Smith | John Schreiber | James McArthur

Cincinnati Reds – Although he underwent a lengthy pre-outing inspection for a tacky substance, Alexis Díaz was allowed to pitch and recorded his first save of the season with a scoreless ninth. He recorded two strikeouts and worked around a two-out single while preserving the three-run win over the Phillies. He threw 24 pitches (75 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. His velocity was down, but it’s likely because of the weather conditions in this contest. Fernando Cruz notched his second hold, firing a clean eighth and striking out one against the 3-4-5 lineup pocket. Lucas Sims secured his first hold, tossing a scoreless seventh, walking one and striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: Alexis Díaz | Lucas Sims | Fernando Cruz

American League (Game Recaps from April 3)

Baltimore Orioles – Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Yennier Cano collected his first win after firing a clean top of the ninth and striking out one. He threw 10 pitches (80 Strike%) and generated three whiffs (30 SwStr%). He’s turned in 3.1 scoreless frames early on with three strikeouts against one walk.

Hierarchy Remains: Craig Kimbrel | Yennier Cano | Keegan Akin

Minnesota Twins – After his team tacked a run on their lead removing the save chance, Steven Okert tossed a scoreless bottom of the ninth, walking one and striking out three, closing out a come-from-behind four-run victory. Griffin Jax fired a clean eighth, striking out one on 18 pitches (11 strikes – 61.1 Strike%) with two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%), matching up with Milwaukee’s 2-3-4 lineup pocket for his first hold. Brock Stewart notched his second hold, retiring the side in order in the seventh, recording two strikeouts.

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

New York Yankees – A wild finale in the desert ended in a save for Caleb Ferguson, striking out pitcher Scott McGough with the bases loaded. Ferguson let one of two inherited runners score, giving up a hit, and a walk while striking out two over two-thirds of an inning. Clay Holmes collected his first win, along with suffering his first blown save, allowing a hit, three unearned runs, and striking out one over 1.1 innings. He threw 22 pitches (13 strikes – 59.1 Strike%) and produced two whiffs during his outing. He also hit a batter and uncorked a wild pitch. He owns a 1.38 WHIP with one strikeout over 4.1 innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Clay Holmes | Ian Hamilton | Jonathan Loáisiga

Texas Rangers – During a non-save appearance, José Leclerc recorded an out before hitting Isaac Paredes with a pitch, then gave up consecutive hits, including an RBI single by Harold Ramírez before retiring the last two batters he faced. He threw 21 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Through three outings, he owns a 3.00 WHIP and only registered one strikeout over 2.2 innings. David Robertson notched his third hold, working around two hits and striking out one in a scoreless eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: José Leclerc | Kirby Yates | David Robertson

National League (Game Recaps from April 3)

Arizona Diamondbacks – Taking over in the top of the 11th, Scott McGough allowed two hits and two runs (one earned), while striking out one, resulting in his first loss. Kevin Ginkel served up a two-run home run in the top of the 10th facing Alex Verdugo, scoring the “place” runner, but did not factor in the decision courtesy of his team’s rally in the bottom of the frame. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with one whiff.

Hierarchy Remains: Kevin Ginkel | Ryan Thompson | Scott McGough

Chicago Cubs –Capping a late rally after blowing a large lead, Adbert Alzolay tossed a scoreless top of the ninth, giving up a hit and striking out two for his first save of the year. He threw 17 pitches (10 strikes – 58.8 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (17.6 SwStr%). He owns a 1.13 WHIP with four strikeouts versus one walk over three innings. Hector Neris suffered his first blown save, but collected his second win, letting all three inherited runners score in the eighth while allowing three hits and two earned runs while striking out two over two-thirds of an inning.

Hierarchy Remains: Adbert Alzolay | Hector Neris | Julian Merryweather

Milwaukee Brewers – Joel Payamps suffered his first loss and first blown save, allowing four hits and four earned runs over one-third of the seventh. This marked his fourth outing in six days. In a roster note, Trevor Megill was placed on the seven-day concussion injury list before this contest.

Adjusted Hierarchy: Abner Uribe | Joel Payamps | Hoby Milner

San Diego Padres –  Forced into an extended outing, Robert Suarez held on for his third save, logging 1.2 scoreless frames, preserving a one-run win over the Cardinals. It did not come easy, he stranded a runner in the eighth after walking a batter and then induced an inning-ending double play groundout. During the ninth, he allowed a hit and a walk before recording a game-ending strikeout. He threw 33 pitches (20 strikes – 60.6 Strike%) and produced three whiffs. He owns a 5:2 K:BB with a 1.25 WHIP through four innings this season.

Hierarchy Remains: Robert Suarez | Yuki Matsui | Wandy Peralta

Washington Nationals – Short memories remain a must for leverage relievers and Kyle Finnegan bounced back with a scoreless ninth, securing his second save. He worked around an error allowing a baserunner and recorded two strikeouts. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) with one whiff. Hunter Harvey retired all five batters faced, four via strikeout on 26 pitches (16 strikes – 61.5 Strike%), and generated five whiffs (19.2 SwStr%).

Hierarchy Remains: Kyle Finnegan | Hunter Harvey | Jordan Weems

Ancillary Save Alerts

Los Angeles Angels – First career save alert, this one by Guillermo Zuñiga during an eight-run win in Miami. He fired three clean frames, striking out one, needing only 28 pitches (60.7 Strike%) and producing two whiffs.

Los Angeles Dodgers – Providing Evan Phillips with rest, Dinelson Lamet recorded his first career save, firing a clean top the ninth, striking out two. He threw 11 pitches 63.6 Strike%) with one whiff.

Closer Monkey filthy pitch of the day goes to Fernando Cruz and his splitter, courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

Vulture Save Alert for Thursday, April 4

Doubleheaders can create strange save situations if there’s a sweep, but it’s a hedge, nothing guaranteed

  • DET: Shelby Miller and Will Vest (Alex Lange?)
  • NYM: Adam Ottavino and Drew Smith
  • KCR: Will Smith has appeared in two straight, James McArthur in two of the last three, which may create a save chance for John Schreiber in today’s contest.

Thursday’s limited slate makes vulture saves very limited on Friday, but we are watching the Marlins leverage ladder closely.

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Monkey Bytes, April 3: Kopech hangs on for his first career save, Hader blows his first in Houston, Game Recaps, and more

Chicago White Sox – Taking over with two runners on and one out in the eighth, Michael Kopech issued a walk and induced an inning-inning double-play grounder. In the ninth, he served up a solo home run (Marcell Ozuna), issued a second walk, and gave up a single, but recorded his first major league save, closing out a one-run win. He threw 39 pitches (23 strikes – 59 Strike%) with two whiffs. Seven of his pitches reached triple digits (17.9%). John Brebbia retired one batter and issued two walks over one-third of the eighth, receiving credit for his first hold. 

Hierarchy Remains: *Michael Kopech | *John Brebbia | *Steven Wilson

Houston Astros – With a chance at closing out a combined shutout, and his first save as an Astro, Josh Hader came up short, suffering his second loss and first blown save. His outing began with a lead-off single by Vlad Guerrero Jr. followed by a double play groundout. However, a two-out walk to Justin Turner preceded the go-ahead two-run home run by Davis Schneider before an inning-ending grounder. Hader gave up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while throwing 21 pitches (13 strikes – 61.9 Strike%) with two whiffs. He owns a 1.50 WHIP with seven strikeouts versus two walks through four innings. Ryan Pressly secured his first hold, retiring his only batter faced and stranding a runner in the eighth.

Hierarchy Remains: Josh Hader | Ryan Pressly | Bryan Abreu

American League (Game Recaps from April 2)

Boston Red Sox – Working two scoreless innings, and benefiting from his team’s run in the top of the 11th, Josh Winckowski collected his first win, issuing an intentional walk and striking out two in Oakland. He threw 15 pitches, all strikes, and induced four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%). Kenley Jansen made his first appearance in four days, navigating around two walks and striking out two in a scoreless bottom of the ninth, throwing 26 pitches (14 strikes – 53.8 Strike%) and producing five whiffs (19.2 SwStr%). Chris Martin fired a clean eighth, striking out one on an efficient nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) with two whiffs (22.2 SwStr%).

Hierarchy Remains: Kenley Jansen | Chris Martin | Josh Winckowski

Cleveland Guardians – Nailing down his second save, Emmanuel Clase allowed a one-out single by Dominic Canzone and recorded a strikeout during a scoreless bottom of the ninth in Seattle. He threw 17 pitches (14 strikes – 82.4 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (11.8 SwStr%). Through two outings, he owns a 1.50 WHIP with two strikeouts.

Hierarchy Remains: Emmanuel Clase | Scott Barlow | Tyler Beede

Kansas City Royals -Securing his first save of the season, Will Smith fired a clean ninth in Baltimore, recording one strikeout. He threw 11 pitches (54.5 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Through two outings, he owns a 2.00 WHIP with one strikeout against two walks. John Schreiber worked a scoreless eighth, giving up a hit for his second hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Will Smith | James McArthur | John Schreiber

Oakland A’s – Suffering his first loss, Mitch Spence gave up an RBI, go-ahead single by Reese McGuire, scoring the “place” runner in the top of the 11th. Mason Miller logged two scoreless frames, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out four across the ninth and 10th innings. He threw 29 pitches (20 strikes – 69 Strike%) and generated an eye-popping 11 whiffs (37.9 SwStr%). Dany Jiménez fired a clean eighth, striking out two.

Hierarchy Remains: *Mason Miller | *Dany Jiménez | Austin Adams

Toronto Blue Jays – Collecting his first win in a very strange contest, Chad Green took over in the eighth with two runners on, but the inning ended when Jose Altuve was picked off at third. Following a go-ahead two-run home run, Green returned for the ninth, with a runner reaching on an error, the pinch-runner was thrown out during a steal attempt after falling, then he recorded the last two outs. All told, he logged 1.1 scoreless innings while striking out one throwing 23 pitches (12 strikes – 52.1 Strike%) with three whiffs. Tim Mayza walked one during two-thirds scoreless in the eighth. Yimi García tossed a scoreless seventh, allowing a hit and striking out one.

Adjusted Hierarchy: *Chad Green | *Yimi García | Génesis Cabrera

National League (Game Recaps from April 2)

Los Angeles Dodgers – Finishing off a bullpen contest, Evan Phillips recorded his third save, allowing a hit and striking out two over 1.1 scoreless frames. He threw 17 pitches (14 strikes – 82.4 Strike%) and produced one whiff. He’s posted a minuscule 0.27 WHIP with five strikeouts versus zero walks through 3.2 innings.

Hierarchy Remains: Evan Phillips | Daniel Hudson | Joe Kelly

Milwaukee Brewers – Despite issuing a lead-off walk to Carlos Correa, Abner Uribe induced a ground ball double play and retired Carlos Santana on a ground out, securing his third save of the season. He threw eight pitches (50 Strike%) without recording a whiff. He owns a 0.67 WHIP with two strikeouts versus one walk over his first three innings. Joel Payamps notched his second hold, retiring the side in order in the eighth, facing the Twins’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket.

Hierarchy Remains: Abner Uribe | Joel Payamps | Trevor Megill

St. Louis Cardinals – Recording his first save of the season, Ryan Helsley worked a scoreless bottom of the ninth, navigating around a lead-off single by Luis Campusano with two strikeouts and a game-ending pop-out. Helsley threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) with one whiff. He’s posted a 2.00 WHIP with four strikeouts over his first three outings. Andrew Kittredge notched his third hold with a clean eighth, striking out one. Giovanny Gallegos worked around a hit and a walk for a scoreless seventh, securing his first hold.

Hierarchy Remains: Ryan Helsley | Giovanny Gallegos | JoJo Romero

Ancillary Saves from April 2

Los Angeles Angels – Hanging on for his first save of the year, and first since August 20, 2022, Luis García allowed a solo home run but recorded a game-ending strikeout, preserving a 3-1 win over Miami. He threw 19 pitches (11 strikes – 57.9 Strike%) and produced two whiffs. He now has an ERA (36.00) after not recording an out during his first appearance. Matt Moore retired the side in order in the eighth for his second hold. If interested, Adam Cimber was warming in case he was needed in the ninth with Carlos Estévez unavailable for this contest.

Hierarchy Remains: Carlos Estévez | Matt Moore | José Soriano

Philadelphia Phillies – After six years between appearances with the Phillies, Ricardo Pinto provided his teammates with much-needed rest by logging four innings for his first save of the season, and the first save of his career. He allowed three hits and two earned runs while striking out four, throwing 73 pitches with seven whiffs. 

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

Vulture Save Candidates for Wednesday, April 3

  • BOS: Chris Martin since Kenley Jansen threw 26 pitches last night and has a balky back.
  • CWS: Steven Wilson after Michael Kopech logged 1.2 innings and threw 39 pitches on Tuesday.
  • HOU: Josh Hader has appeared in three of the last four days, so Ryan Pressly likely receives the save chance if provided, though the team could opt for Bryan Abreu. It would be ironic if Pressly secured a save before Hader.
  • OAK: Because Mason Miller worked two innings last night, Dany Jiménez lines up as the likely save option in today’s game against Boston.
  • St. Louis: Ryan Helsley has appeared in two straight games, which creates a vulture save chance for Giovanny Gallegos, though JoJo Romero could be a factor depending on how lineup pockets proceed in the high-leverage innings.

Vulture Save Candidates for Thursday, April 4

  • MIA: Andrew Nardi could be in play, but this is a small slate, and usage patterns on Wednesday will be necessary before suggesting strong plays.

Closer Monkey’s filthy pitch of the day goes to Dillon Tate and his sweepers against Kansas City last night, courtesy of the Pitching Ninja.

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