After a month in which they were the most dominant relievers in their respective circuits Aroldis Chapman (American League) and Raisel Iglesias have been named the Relievers of the Month for Major League Baseball. This marks the first time two Cuban players have been selected as the top relievers in the same month since the award was established in 2017.
His ten saves this month represented a new MLB career high for Raisel, as his previous record was eight, achieved in June 2023. Iglesias’ performance during the month of August was spectacular. In 13 appearances, he posted a 0.69 ERA (one ER in 13.0 IP). Opponents hit only .170 against him (8H in 47AB). He displayed excellent control and did not issue any walks. He also retired 13 batters via strikes and his WHIP was 0.62.
Overall this season, the Atlanta Braves’ closer has pitched 59 games. His ERA is 3.81 (24 ERA; 56.2 IP), while he also has a record of four wins and six losses. Iglesias has two holds, 23 saves and has allowed 48 hits in 213 at-bats (.225 AVG). The native of the Isle of Youth has issued ten walks, struck out 61, and sports a WHIP of 1.02.
In Chapman’s case he tossed a total of 11 innings during the month of August posting a record of 1-0, saving eight games in as many chances and fanning 14 batters over that span. The flamethrowing left-hander also did not allow a hit over the month, hitters went 0-for-33 against the Cuban.
On the season the southpaw has a good case to be in the Cy Young race. Chapman on the campaign has a record of 4-2, saved 28 games in 30 chances and sports a sterling 1.00 earn run average. The native of Holguín, Cuba also has four holds and opponents hit a miniscule .115 against him on the season.
