So after wins, it seems only right that we look at another antiquated stat; this time, saves. As major league teams move more and more to pitch their best relievers in the most crucial moments of the game, whenever that might be, the save is being de-emphasized (even with Seattle’s Edwin Diaz’s 50+ saves this year).
Again, though, if the league tracks it, so does ATVL. So, the most saves since the 2004 Valley League season:
| 1 | Adam Zipko | New Market | 2013 | 18 |
| 2 | Chris Dennis | Winchester | 2004 | 15 |
| 3 | Derrik Lutz | Front Royal | 2004 | 14 |
| 4 | Brandon Dickson | New Market | 2005 | 13 |
| Joel Brookens | Front Royal | 2007 | 13 | |
| Jimmy Stanley | Waynesboro | 2007 | 13 | |
| Shawn Griffith | Fauquier | 2008 | 13 | |
| 8 | Bobby Hernandez | Staunton | 2007 | 12 |
| 9 | Chris Fessler | Harrisonburg | 2005 | 11 |
| Daniel Bridgeman | Strasburg | 2013 | 11 |
This list hasn’t seen a new name since 2013! If you’re wondering, Brilliant Reader, Purcellville’s Anthony Zimmerman led the league in saves this summer with 7.
The breakdown:
Major Leaguers: Brandon Dickson (still pitching in Japan- like Kyle Arjona this season, Dickson signed a contract as an undrafted free agent at the end of his VBL summer season- and made the major leagues!)
Current Minor Leaguers: None
Previous Minor Leaguers: Chris Dennis, Derrik Lutz, Shawn Griffith, Bobby Hernandez, Chris Fessler
No pro experience: Adam Zipko, Joel Brookens, Jimmy Stanley (pitched in Indy Ball for 2 seasons), Daniel Bridgeman
Current College Players: None
By team:
- New Market, Front Royal- 2
- Winchester, Waynesboro, Fauquier, Strasburg, Harrisonburg, Staunton- 1
This leaves just one category to go: strikeouts!
