2010 CLOSERS Thread (1 Viewer)

[ceo3west]

Starting a new thread for 2010 - below are the current closers going into the new season along with their backups in order. This info has been obtained from other sites, if you see any inaccuracies let me know and I will update.

NL EAST

ATLANTA BRAVES – B. Wagner (T. Saito, P. Moylan, C. Krimbel)

FLORIDA MARLINS – L. Nunez (M. MacDougal, B. Sanches, D. Meyer)

NEW YORK METS – F. Rodriguez (K. Escobar, R. Igarashi, E. Kunz)

PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES – J. Contreras (D. Baez, P. Aumonte, B. Lidge; R. Madson-DL)

WASHINGTON NATIONALS – M. Capps (B. Bruney, E. Guardado, D. Storen)

NL CENTRAL

CHICAGO CUBS – C. Marmol (A. Guzman, J. Samardzija, A. Cashner)

CINCINNATI REDS – F. Cordero (N. Masset, J. Burton, D. Joseph)

HOUSTON ASTROS – M. Lindstrom (B. Lyon, F. Paulino, S. Gervacio)

MILWAUKEE BREWERS – T. Hoffman (L. Hawkins, C. Villanueva, M. Rogers)

ST. LOUIS CARDINALS – R. Franklin (J. Motte, B. Hawksworth, E. Sanchez)

PITTSBURGH PIRATES – O. Dotel (E. Meek, J. Hanrahan, C. Hansen)

NL WEST

ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS – C. Qualls (J. Gutierrez, B. Howry, R. Mercedes)

COLORADO ROCKIES – M.Corpas (F. Morales, C. Weathers, R. Betancourt, H. Street - DL)

LOS ANGELES – J. Broxton (R. Troncoso, G. Sherrill, J. Lindbolm)

SAN DIEGO PADRES – H. Bell (M. Adams, L. Gregerson, W. Pelzer)

SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS – B. Wilson (J. Affeldt, S. Casilla, H. Sosa)

AL EAST

BALTIMORE ORIOLES – A. Simon (J. Johnson, C. Meredith, K. Mickolio, M. Gonzalez - DL)

BOSTON RED SOX – J. Papelbon (D. Bard, H. Okajima, A. Wilson)

NEW YORK YANKEES – M. Rivera (D. Marte, D. Robertson, M. Melancon)

TAMPA BAY RAYS – R. Soriano (J. Howell, D. Wheeler, J. McGee)

TORONTO BLUE JAYS – K. Gregg (J. Frasor, S. Downs, C. Janssen, J. Roenicke)



AL CENTRAL

CLEVELAND INDIANS – K. Wood (C. Perez, J. Lewis, J. Todd)

CHICAGO WHITE SOX – B. Jenks (M. Thornton, T. Pena, S. Rodriguez)

DETROIT TIGERS – J. Valverde (J. Zumaya, R. Perry, M. Schlereth)

KANSAS CITY ROYALS – J. Soria (K. Farnworth, J. Cruz, C. Rosa)

MINNESOTA TWINS – J. Rauch (M. Guerrier, J. Mijares, A. Slama)



AL WEST

LOS ANGELES ANGELS – B. Fuentes (F. Rodney, K. Jepsen, M. Kohn)

OAKLAND ATHLETICS – A. Bailey (J. Devine, M. Wuertz,, H. Rodriguez)

SEATTLE MARINERS – D. Aardsma (B. League, M. Lowe, J. Fields)

TEXAS RANGERS – N. Feliz (F. Francisco, C. Ray, C Wilson, T. Sheppers)

 

[Eephus]

Closer situations have a way of unraveling over time. Some of the solids will crumble by Memorial Day due to injuries or ineffectiveness. I don't know the difference between solid and safe but I'd consider downgrading Wagner, Lidge, Capps, Gonzalez, Aardsma and Francisco.

 

[ceo3west]

Closer situations have a way of unraveling over time. Some of the solids will crumble by Memorial Day due to injuries or ineffectiveness. I don't know the difference between solid and safe but I'd consider downgrading Wagner, Lidge, Capps, Gonzalez, Aardsma and Francisco.

I agree that the ranks are not spot on, and I would also downgrade those you mentioned with the exception of Aardsma IMO. I just took these from Fantasy Baseball Cafe. Closers in general are volatile from year to year which is why I never pay for a premium guy, too easy to get burned with closers. I'll target some cheaper guys like Qualls or Capps, then play the wire. Guys always emerge but you need to be diligent. Franklin is a great example of this.

 

[MAC_32]

Still evaluating ADP lists but outside of the norm, not drafting a closer until 10+ rounds deep, the bad values I see are

Lidge

Capps

Marmol

Franklin

Qualls

Wood

Jenks

I'll probably end up with Soriano, Gonzalez, and Wagner on a lot of teams.

 

[Michael Brown]

He's had some back/shoulder issues, but I have to think Lyon is the favorite for saves in Houston. They're paying him like he's the closer, at the very least.

Also, I think Farnsworth's name has been thrown around as a possible starting option in KC so I don't know how high up he is on the saves pecking order.

Also don't know if I'd designate Capps a "solid" in Washington. Bruney has outwardly campaigned for the job, and while he has never shown the ability to be a closer, he's got closer stuff and Capps was pretty bad last year.

 

[Doctor Detroit]

He's had some back/shoulder issues, but I have to think Lyon is the favorite for saves in Houston. They're paying him like he's the closer, at the very least.

Yeah, not sure why Lindstrom is listed as the primary at this moment. I think Lindstrom has a chance to take the job if Lyon fails, but given the money they gave him it's Lyon's job until it's officially announced otherwise.I'd also list the Angels as volatile, Fuentes is just not good and they are paying Rodney closers money as a set-up guy as proof. Valverde should be rock solid, Jim Leyland sticks with his closer. He would have to completely implode to lose that job, and you'll see it coming. Good stuff though.

 

[crewmember]

Still evaluating ADP lists but outside of the norm, not drafting a closer until 10+ rounds deep, the bad values I see are

Lidge

Capps

Marmol

Franklin

Qualls

Wood

Jenks

I'll probably end up with Soriano, Gonzalez, and Wagner on a lot of teams.

I like Jenks going in 2nd half of closers. Sox have great pitching and bad offense, should be alot of close games. The losing weight, finding religion, stop drinking stuff is just gravy.

 

[dexterbenchalot]

Anyone think Gagne right return this year after his stint in the minors? I would be interested to keep an eye out.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

Marlins signed Mike MacDougal, who closed for the Nationals in the second half last year.

I'd say that makes him #2 in the pecking order there.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

Anyone think Gagne right return this year after his stint in the minors? I would be interested to keep an eye out.

He sucks without roids.

 

[shake zula]

Marlins signed Mike MacDougal, who closed for the Nationals in the second half last year. I'd say that makes him #2 in the pecking order there.

I tend to agree but don't discount Sanches. He was lights out last season.

 

[MAC_32]

Marlins signed Mike MacDougal, who closed for the Nationals in the second half last year. I'd say that makes him #2 in the pecking order there.

One half of a decent season doesn't make me a believer, not given all of the crap he produced before then. If something were to happen to Nunez I don't know who would be next but I would not be betting on MacDougal.

 

[ceo3west]

Marlins signed Mike MacDougal, who closed for the Nationals in the second half last year. I'd say that makes him #2 in the pecking order there.

I put MacDougal in there but it's anyones guess as to who will replace Nunez.

 

[Lehigh98]

I'm in a 5X5 league where we're only limited to 2 FA pickups a year (aside from injuries) so reliable closers are a big value.

Looking at this list, which closers do you think have the best chance to keep their job (aside from injury) for the entire year?

We start two (10 team league) so I'm looking for a list that I can go into the draft saying, "I need 2 of these guys".

Draft is Friday night so unfortunately can't wait and see how Spring Training battles work out.

I sorted the Closers by the "Solid" ranking criteria and then by rankings and ADP (12 Team) I just pulled from

HERE.(First Google result for "Closer ADP")

Closer Rank - ADP - Player

1 - 70 - LOS ANGELES – J. Broxton (R. Troncoso, G. Sherrill, J. Lindbolm) ROCK SOLID

2 - 76 - MINNESOTA TWINS – J. Nathan (J. Rauch, M. Guerrier, A. Slama) ROCK SOLID

3 - 71 - BOSTON RED SOX – J. Papelbon (H. Okajima, D. Bard, A. Wilson) ROCK SOLID

4 - 73 - NEW YORK YANKEES – M. Rivera (D. Marte, D. Robertson, M. Melancon) ROCK SOLID

5 - 102 - KANSAS CITY ROYALS – J. Soria (K. Farnworth, J. Cruz, C. Rosa) ROCK SOLID

6 - 87 - NEW YORK METS – F. Rodriguez (K. Escobar, R. Igarashi, E. Kunz) ROCK SOLID

12 - 108 - CINCINNATI REDS – F. Cordero (N. Masset, J. Burton, D. Joseph) ROCK SOLID

7 - 127 - OAKLAND ATHLETICS – A. Bailey (J. Devine, M. Wuertz,, H. Rodriguez) SOLID A

8 - 103 - SAN DIEGO PADRES – H. Bell (L. Gregerson, M. Adams, W. Pelzer) SOLID A

9 - 137 - DETROIT TIGERS – J. Valverde (J. Zumaya, R. Perry, M. Schlereth) SOLID A

10 - 149 - COLORADO ROCKIES – H. Street (R. Betancourt, M.Corpas, C. Weathers) SOLID A

11 - 143 - SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS – B. Wilson (J. Affeldt, S. Casilla, H. Sosa) SOLID A

14 - 157 - TAMPA BAY RAYS – R. Soriano (J. Howell, D. Wheeler, J. McGee) SOLID A

16 - 170 - MILWAUKEE BREWERS – T. Hoffman (L. Hawkins, C. Villanueva, M. Rogers) SOLID A

19 - 228 - ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS – C. Qualls (J. Gutierrez, B. Howry, R. Mercedes) SOLID A

21 - 143 - CHICAGO CUBS – C. Marmol (A. Guzman, J. Samardzija, A. Cashner) SOLID A

22 - 163 - CHICAGO WHITE SOX – B. Jenks (M. Thornton, T. Pena, S. Rodriguez) SOLID A

29 - 271 - PITTSBURGH PIRATES – O. Dotel (J. Hanrahan, C. Hansen, V. Black) SOLID A

13 - 150 - ATLANTA BRAVES – B. Wagner (T. Saito, P. Moylan, C. Krimbel) SOLID B

17 - 204 - TEXAS RANGERS – F. Francisco (C. Ray, C Wilson, T. Sheppers) SOLID B

18 - 206 - BALTIMORE ORIOLES – M. Gonzalez (J. Johnson, C. Meredith, K. Mickolio) SOLID B

20 -156 - SEATTLE MARINERS – D. Aardsma (B. League, M. Lowe, J. Fields) SOLID B

26 - 234 - WASHINGTON NATIONALS – M. Capps (B. Bruney, E. Guardado, D. Storen) SOLID B

23 - 153 - ST. LOUIS CARDINALS – R. Franklin (J. Motte, B. Hawksworth, E. Sanchez) SAFE

25 - 229 - PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES – B. Lidge (R. Madson, D. Baez, P. Aumonte) SAFE

15 - 117 - LOS ANGELES ANGELS – B. Fuentes (F. Rodney, K. Jepsen, M. Kohn) SHAKY

24 - 227 - CLEVELAND INDIANS – K. Wood (C. Perez, J. Lewis, J. Todd) SHAKY

27 - 242 - FLORIDA MARLINS – L. Nunez (M. MacDougal, B. Sanches, D. Meyer) VOLATILE

28 - 264 - TORONTO BLUE JAYS – K. Gregg (J. Frasor ?:-? , S. Downs :-?, C. Janssen, J. Roenicke) VOLATILE

30 - 261 - HOUSTON ASTROS – M. Lindstrom (B. Lyon ?, F. Paulino, S. Gervacio) VOLATILE

Thinking of this for my "Must Have 2 List", thoughts?...Maybe grab a guy towards the end of the "Rock Solid" Tier and then another guy further down the list later?

Who would you drop off or add to the list for my situation? TIA!

1 - 70 - LOS ANGELES – J. Broxton (R. Troncoso, G. Sherrill, J. Lindbolm) ROCK SOLID

2 - 76 - MINNESOTA TWINS – J. Nathan (J. Rauch, M. Guerrier, A. Slama) ROCK SOLID

3 - 71 - BOSTON RED SOX – J. Papelbon (H. Okajima, D. Bard, A. Wilson) ROCK SOLID

4 - 73 - NEW YORK YANKEES – M. Rivera (D. Marte, D. Robertson, M. Melancon) ROCK SOLID

5 - 102 - KANSAS CITY ROYALS – J. Soria (K. Farnworth, J. Cruz, C. Rosa) ROCK SOLID

6 - 87 - NEW YORK METS – F. Rodriguez (K. Escobar, R. Igarashi, E. Kunz) ROCK SOLID

12 - 108 - CINCINNATI REDS – F. Cordero (N. Masset, J. Burton, D. Joseph) ROCK SOLID

7 - 127 - OAKLAND ATHLETICS – A. Bailey (J. Devine, M. Wuertz,, H. Rodriguez) SOLID A

8 - 103 - SAN DIEGO PADRES – H. Bell (L. Gregerson, M. Adams, W. Pelzer) SOLID A

9 - 137 - DETROIT TIGERS – J. Valverde (J. Zumaya, R. Perry, M. Schlereth) SOLID A

10 - 149 - COLORADO ROCKIES – H. Street (R. Betancourt, M.Corpas, C. Weathers) SOLID A

11 - 143 - SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS – B. Wilson (J. Affeldt, S. Casilla, H. Sosa) SOLID A

14 - 157 - TAMPA BAY RAYS – R. Soriano (J. Howell, D. Wheeler, J. McGee) SOLID A

16 - 170 - MILWAUKEE BREWERS – T. Hoffman (L. Hawkins, C. Villanueva, M. Rogers) SOLID A

19 - 228 - ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS – C. Qualls (J. Gutierrez, B. Howry, R. Mercedes) SOLID A

21 - 143 - CHICAGO CUBS – C. Marmol (A. Guzman, J. Samardzija, A. Cashner) SOLID A

22 - 163 - CHICAGO WHITE SOX – B. Jenks (M. Thornton, T. Pena, S. Rodriguez) SOLID A

 

[Michael Brown]

I'm in a 5X5 league where we're only limited to 2 FA pickups a year (aside from injuries) so reliable closers are a big value.

Looking at this list, which closers do you think have the best chance to keep their job (aside from injury) for the entire year?

We start two (10 team league) so I'm looking for a list that I can go into the draft saying, "I need 2 of these guys".

Draft is Friday night so unfortunately can't wait and see how Spring Training battles work out.

I sorted the Closers by the "Solid" ranking criteria and then by rankings and ADP (12 Team) I just pulled from

HERE.(First Google result for "Closer ADP")

Closer Rank - ADP - Player

1 - 70 - LOS ANGELES – J. Broxton (R. Troncoso, G. Sherrill, J. Lindbolm) ROCK SOLID

2 - 76 - MINNESOTA TWINS – J. Nathan (J. Rauch, M. Guerrier, A. Slama) ROCK SOLID

3 - 71 - BOSTON RED SOX – J. Papelbon (H. Okajima, D. Bard, A. Wilson) ROCK SOLID

4 - 73 - NEW YORK YANKEES – M. Rivera (D. Marte, D. Robertson, M. Melancon) ROCK SOLID

5 - 102 - KANSAS CITY ROYALS – J. Soria (K. Farnworth, J. Cruz, C. Rosa) ROCK SOLID

6 - 87 - NEW YORK METS – F. Rodriguez (K. Escobar, R. Igarashi, E. Kunz) ROCK SOLID

12 - 108 - CINCINNATI REDS – F. Cordero (N. Masset, J. Burton, D. Joseph) ROCK SOLID

7 - 127 - OAKLAND ATHLETICS – A. Bailey (J. Devine, M. Wuertz,, H. Rodriguez) SOLID A

8 - 103 - SAN DIEGO PADRES – H. Bell (L. Gregerson, M. Adams, W. Pelzer) SOLID A

9 - 137 - DETROIT TIGERS – J. Valverde (J. Zumaya, R. Perry, M. Schlereth) SOLID A

10 - 149 - COLORADO ROCKIES – H. Street (R. Betancourt, M.Corpas, C. Weathers) SOLID A

11 - 143 - SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS – B. Wilson (J. Affeldt, S. Casilla, H. Sosa) SOLID A

14 - 157 - TAMPA BAY RAYS – R. Soriano (J. Howell, D. Wheeler, J. McGee) SOLID A

16 - 170 - MILWAUKEE BREWERS – T. Hoffman (L. Hawkins, C. Villanueva, M. Rogers) SOLID A

19 - 228 - ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS – C. Qualls (J. Gutierrez, B. Howry, R. Mercedes) SOLID A

21 - 143 - CHICAGO CUBS – C. Marmol (A. Guzman, J. Samardzija, A. Cashner) SOLID A

22 - 163 - CHICAGO WHITE SOX – B. Jenks (M. Thornton, T. Pena, S. Rodriguez) SOLID A

29 - 271 - PITTSBURGH PIRATES – O. Dotel (J. Hanrahan, C. Hansen, V. Black) SOLID A

13 - 150 - ATLANTA BRAVES – B. Wagner (T. Saito, P. Moylan, C. Krimbel) SOLID B

17 - 204 - TEXAS RANGERS – F. Francisco (C. Ray, C Wilson, T. Sheppers) SOLID B

18 - 206 - BALTIMORE ORIOLES – M. Gonzalez (J. Johnson, C. Meredith, K. Mickolio) SOLID B

20 -156 - SEATTLE MARINERS – D. Aardsma (B. League, M. Lowe, J. Fields) SOLID B

26 - 234 - WASHINGTON NATIONALS – M. Capps (B. Bruney, E. Guardado, D. Storen) SOLID B

23 - 153 - ST. LOUIS CARDINALS – R. Franklin (J. Motte, B. Hawksworth, E. Sanchez) SAFE

25 - 229 - PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES – B. Lidge (R. Madson, D. Baez, P. Aumonte) SAFE

15 - 117 - LOS ANGELES ANGELS – B. Fuentes (F. Rodney, K. Jepsen, M. Kohn) SHAKY

24 - 227 - CLEVELAND INDIANS – K. Wood (C. Perez, J. Lewis, J. Todd) SHAKY

27 - 242 - FLORIDA MARLINS – L. Nunez (M. MacDougal, B. Sanches, D. Meyer) VOLATILE

28 - 264 - TORONTO BLUE JAYS – K. Gregg (J. Frasor ?:-? , S. Downs :-?, C. Janssen, J. Roenicke) VOLATILE

30 - 261 - HOUSTON ASTROS – M. Lindstrom (B. Lyon ?, F. Paulino, S. Gervacio) VOLATILE

Thinking of this for my "Must Have 2 List", thoughts?...Maybe grab a guy towards the end of the "Rock Solid" Tier and then another guy further down the list later?

Who would you drop off or add to the list for my situation? TIA!

1 - 70 - LOS ANGELES – J. Broxton (R. Troncoso, G. Sherrill, J. Lindbolm) ROCK SOLID

2 - 76 - MINNESOTA TWINS – J. Nathan (J. Rauch, M. Guerrier, A. Slama) ROCK SOLID

3 - 71 - BOSTON RED SOX – J. Papelbon (H. Okajima, D. Bard, A. Wilson) ROCK SOLID

4 - 73 - NEW YORK YANKEES – M. Rivera (D. Marte, D. Robertson, M. Melancon) ROCK SOLID

5 - 102 - KANSAS CITY ROYALS – J. Soria (K. Farnworth, J. Cruz, C. Rosa) ROCK SOLID

6 - 87 - NEW YORK METS – F. Rodriguez (K. Escobar, R. Igarashi, E. Kunz) ROCK SOLID

12 - 108 - CINCINNATI REDS – F. Cordero (N. Masset, J. Burton, D. Joseph) ROCK SOLID

7 - 127 - OAKLAND ATHLETICS – A. Bailey (J. Devine, M. Wuertz,, H. Rodriguez) SOLID A

8 - 103 - SAN DIEGO PADRES – H. Bell (L. Gregerson, M. Adams, W. Pelzer) SOLID A

9 - 137 - DETROIT TIGERS – J. Valverde (J. Zumaya, R. Perry, M. Schlereth) SOLID A

10 - 149 - COLORADO ROCKIES – H. Street (R. Betancourt, M.Corpas, C. Weathers) SOLID A

11 - 143 - SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS – B. Wilson (J. Affeldt, S. Casilla, H. Sosa) SOLID A

14 - 157 - TAMPA BAY RAYS – R. Soriano (J. Howell, D. Wheeler, J. McGee) SOLID A

16 - 170 - MILWAUKEE BREWERS – T. Hoffman (L. Hawkins, C. Villanueva, M. Rogers) SOLID A

19 - 228 - ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS – C. Qualls (J. Gutierrez, B. Howry, R. Mercedes) SOLID A

21 - 143 - CHICAGO CUBS – C. Marmol (A. Guzman, J. Samardzija, A. Cashner) SOLID A

22 - 163 - CHICAGO WHITE SOX – B. Jenks (M. Thornton, T. Pena, S. Rodriguez) SOLID A

I think, barring injury, Mariano/Soria/Nathan/Hoffman/K-Rod are the most logical guys to not lose their jobs. Whether it's because of their own dominance or a lack of other options, I don't see any of these guys losing 9th-inning duties anytime soon. Papelbon and Broxton are dominant, but they've got a lot of good RPs on those teams. The first group is much more established, or in the case of Soria I don't see anybody else really capable of the role in KC.

 

[ceo3west]

Updated Minnesota - looks like Nathan could miss significant time. Rauch is next in line, but Guerrier could be in line for saves. Also removed closers status on first thread.

 

[Lehigh98]

I think, barring injury, Mariano/Soria/Nathan/Hoffman/K-Rod are the most logical guys to not lose their jobs.

Got Nathan and Soria... doh!

 

[Bobcat10]

.

 

[ceo3west]

Updated - Street apparently will start the year on the DL, making Betancourt the likely fill-in. Also, everything I have been reading suggest that Lyon is in fact the closer in Houston, not Lindstrom. Anyone hear otherwise?

 

[MAC_32]

Updated - Street apparently will start the year on the DL, making Betancourt the likely fill-in. Also, everything I have been reading suggest that Lyon is in fact the closer in Houston, not Lindstrom. Anyone hear otherwise?

Betancourt's hurt too, I'm betting on Morales as the short term solution.Lyon is the closer if he's healthy, since his health is still a question mark that situation is unsettled.

 

[Michael Brown]

I think Lyon is supposed to pitch tomorrow so we should have a better feel of where he's at after that game.

Also, Kerry Wood has been slow to recover from this back thing (shocker) so Chris Perez is looking like a nice late-round guy.

 

[dparker713]

Updated - Street apparently will start the year on the DL, making Betancourt the likely fill-in. Also, everything I have been reading suggest that Lyon is in fact the closer in Houston, not Lindstrom. Anyone hear otherwise?

Betancourt's hurt too, I'm betting on Morales as the short term solution.Lyon is the closer if he's healthy, since his health is still a question mark that situation is unsettled.

I'd bank on Morales even if Betancourt were healthy. Manny Corpas also has experience.

 

[Angry Beavers]

Bailey has been shut down in oakland... Zeigler is the guy to grab there, for now.

 

[MAC_32]

Bailey has been shut down in oakland... Zeigler is the guy to grab there, for now.

I'm not so sure, Devine's setback probably takes him out of the short term running but Wuertz seems like a better fit than Ziegler.

 

[ceo3west]

Bailey has been shut down in oakland... Zeigler is the guy to grab there, for now.

What about Devine or Wuertz? If Bailey goes down I think this situation is clouded.

 

[Angry Beavers]

Bailey has been shut down in oakland... Zeigler is the guy to grab there, for now.

What about Devine or Wuertz? If Bailey goes down I think this situation is clouded.

Devine is still hurt. Now that I think about it, Wuertz makes a lot of sense as well Zeigler. I would think Zeigler would get first crack but I could be wrong....

 

[JohnnyU]

Bailey has been shut down in oakland... Zeigler is the guy to grab there, for now.

A little tennis elbowAndrew Bailey (elbow) is expected to be ready for Opening Day.

Bailey, last year's AL Rookie of the Year, will be shut down for five to seven days because of lateral epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow. "It's just a little discomfort," said Bailey. "I felt something after my last outing [sunday], so I figured I should have it checked out. I'll just be doing some therapy and give it some rest." Athletics manager Bob Geren added that "everything sounded encouraging" after the 25-year-old underwent an MRI, so unless something changes when he resumes throwing, there shouldn't be any significant fantasy fallout here.

Source: MLB.com

 

[ceo3west]

3/18 8:53 am: With Huston Street (shoulder) expected to open the season on the DL, Franklin Morales will likely serve as Colorado's temporary closer, according to the Denver Post.

 

[ceo3west]

Kerry Wood out up to 2 months, Perez to take over. link

 

[bweiser]

He's had some back/shoulder issues, but I have to think Lyon is the favorite for saves in Houston. They're paying him like he's the closer, at the very least.

Also, I think Farnsworth's name has been thrown around as a possible starting option in KC so I don't know how high up he is on the saves pecking order.

Also don't know if I'd designate Capps a "solid" in Washington. Bruney has outwardly campaigned for the job, and while he has never shown the ability to be a closer, he's got closer stuff and Capps was pretty bad last year.

huh? could you explain this statement. i'm sure you mean something that is clear to you, but i'm not getting it.

 

[ceo3west]

3/21 9:19 am: With Bobby Jenks battling a calf injury this spring, there's a good chance Matt Thornton will begin the season as Chicago's closer, according to the Boston Globe.

 

[rascal]

well nathan going out just killed my RP core.

Anybody FAs that are good candidates for closing stats later in the year?

Thinking about Morales (Rauch, Thornton, Perez, Lyon all taken).

 

[JohnnyU]

SAN DIEGO PADRES – H. Bell (L. Gregerson, M. Adams, W. Pelzer)

BOSTON RED SOX – J. Papelbon (H. Okajima, D. Bard, A. Wilson)

You might want to switch Gregerson and Adams, and do the same with Okajima and Bard.

 

[Michael Brown]

He's had some back/shoulder issues, but I have to think Lyon is the favorite for saves in Houston. They're paying him like he's the closer, at the very least.

Also, I think Farnsworth's name has been thrown around as a possible starting option in KC so I don't know how high up he is on the saves pecking order.

Also don't know if I'd designate Capps a "solid" in Washington. Bruney has outwardly campaigned for the job, and while he has never shown the ability to be a closer, he's got closer stuff and Capps was pretty bad last year.

huh? could you explain this statement. i'm sure you mean something that is clear to you, but i'm not getting it.

Haha sorry. I meant he's got a great fastball and his demeanor suggests that he seems like he could do well in the role, but he's never been put in closing situations so we don't know how he'd perform...I definitely worded that like an idiot.

 

[Regular Crust Pizza]

SAN DIEGO PADRES – H. Bell (L. Gregerson, M. Adams, W. Pelzer)

BOSTON RED SOX – J. Papelbon (H. Okajima, D. Bard, A. Wilson)

You might want to switch Gregerson and Adams, and do the same with Okajima and Bard.

Sounds like Adams is the guy to target if/when Bell gets traded? Is it a pretty sure thing he'd be the one to take over? I think Gregerson is on the WW, but Adams is already on a team.

 

[Tiger Fan]

MLB.com reports Blue Jays manager Cito Gaston indicated Friday that he is leaning toward tabbing Jason Frasor as the team's closer. Frasor has been battling with Scott Downs and Kevin Gregg this spring, but Gaston isn't sure he wants to mess with success. "It's still up in the air, but Frasor was my closer last year," Gaston said. "He hasn't really done anything to lose that opportunity or that job."(Updated 03/26/2010).

 

[Eephus]

MLB.com reports Blue Jays manager Cito Gaston indicated Friday that he is leaning toward tabbing Jason Frasor as the team's closer. Frasor has been battling with Scott Downs and Kevin Gregg this spring, but Gaston isn't sure he wants to mess with success. "It's still up in the air, but Frasor was my closer last year," Gaston said. "He hasn't really done anything to lose that opportunity or that job."(Updated 03/26/2010).

This situation looks like it'll be a mess all season.

 

[JohnnyU]

SAN DIEGO PADRES – H. Bell (L. Gregerson, M. Adams, W. Pelzer)

BOSTON RED SOX – J. Papelbon (H. Okajima, D. Bard, A. Wilson)

You might want to switch Gregerson and Adams, and do the same with Okajima and Bard.

Sounds like Adams is the guy to target if/when Bell gets traded? Is it a pretty sure thing he'd be the one to take over? I think Gregerson is on the WW, but Adams is already on a team.

In a league that knows what they're doing that would be the first indicator.

 

[The Ref]

Per Rotoworld....

Kelsie Smith of the St. Paul Pioneer-Press reports that the Twins will employee a closer-by-committee strategy to start the season.

A nightmare for fantasy baseball fans. We're still under the impression that Jon Rauch will get the most opportunities for saves, but Matt Guerrier can't be counted out and neither can Jesse Crain. Gardenhire also mentioned Jose Mijares, though as the team's lefty specialist, this would seem to be a situational save opportunity more than a consistent one. This will be a situation worth monitoring well into regular season, as we expect a front-runner to emerge at some point.

 

[Chiwawa]

MLB.com reports Blue Jays manager Cito Gaston indicated Friday that he is leaning toward tabbing Jason Frasor as the team's closer. Frasor has been battling with Scott Downs and Kevin Gregg this spring, but Gaston isn't sure he wants to mess with success. "It's still up in the air, but Frasor was my closer last year," Gaston said. "He hasn't really done anything to lose that opportunity or that job."(Updated 03/26/2010).

This situation looks like it'll be a mess all season.

Frasor is the superior pitcher and closed well last year. As long as he doesn't poop the bed, I think he'll maintain the position.

 

[ceo3west]

3/30 3:29 pm: Matt Lindstrom has been named as the Astros' closer to open the season, according to MLB.com's Alyson Footer.

 

[Smack Tripper]

At what point is Rodney closing for the Halos?

 

[the moops]

Ryan Madson will start the year as closer for the Phillies. He is probably available in many leagues.

 

[Da Guru]

Took a flyer on Billy Wagner late. Wags is throwing hard and geting the KOs. Hopefully he can keep it together for a full year.

 

[Men-in-Cleats]

Took Soriano, Francisco, and Lindstrom. Really hoping the first two put their injury problems behind them.

 

[Gopher State]

The Twins closer is.......Jon Rauch

La Velle E. Neal III

Twins manager Ron Gardenhire just announced that Jon Rauch will be the closer when the regular season begins on Monday in Anaheim.

He announced over the weekend that he would try a closer-by-committee approach, but it is not surprising that he opted for a more structured system. Gardenhire pointed out that their bullpen has operated well when everyone knows their roles.

Rauch, 31, has 26 career saves, including 17 with Washington in 2008. He's not overpowering but should make up for that with mentality and demeanor.

``You lose a closer and you have to ad lib a little bit, we all know that.'' Gardenhire said. ``The best thing is for us to get on our way here and this guy is our closer and we'll go from there and see what happens.''

Gardenhire said that Rauch is eager to prove he's up for the challenge.

Matt Guerrier, Jose Mijares and Jesse Crain will serve as the main set up men,with Pat Neshek, Clay Condrey and Brian Duensing in the wings.

Need a waiver wire closer, here you go

 

[JohnnyU]

The Twins closer is.......Jon RauchLa Velle E. Neal III Twins manager Ron Gardenhire just announced that Jon Rauch will be the closer when the regular season begins on Monday in Anaheim.He announced over the weekend that he would try a closer-by-committee approach, but it is not surprising that he opted for a more structured system. Gardenhire pointed out that their bullpen has operated well when everyone knows their roles.Rauch, 31, has 26 career saves, including 17 with Washington in 2008. He's not overpowering but should make up for that with mentality and demeanor.``You lose a closer and you have to ad lib a little bit, we all know that.'' Gardenhire said. ``The best thing is for us to get on our way here and this guy is our closer and we'll go from there and see what happens.''Gardenhire said that Rauch is eager to prove he's up for the challenge.Matt Guerrier, Jose Mijares and Jesse Crain will serve as the main set up men,with Pat Neshek, Clay Condrey and Brian Duensing in the wings. Need a waiver wire closer, here you go

After Rauch proves he's not worth being a closer, and after the Twins try other options on their bench not named Liriano, they bite the bullet and trade for Heath Bell.

 

[Michael Brown]

The Twins closer is.......Jon RauchLa Velle E. Neal III Twins manager Ron Gardenhire just announced that Jon Rauch will be the closer when the regular season begins on Monday in Anaheim.He announced over the weekend that he would try a closer-by-committee approach, but it is not surprising that he opted for a more structured system. Gardenhire pointed out that their bullpen has operated well when everyone knows their roles.Rauch, 31, has 26 career saves, including 17 with Washington in 2008. He's not overpowering but should make up for that with mentality and demeanor.``You lose a closer and you have to ad lib a little bit, we all know that.'' Gardenhire said. ``The best thing is for us to get on our way here and this guy is our closer and we'll go from there and see what happens.''Gardenhire said that Rauch is eager to prove he's up for the challenge.Matt Guerrier, Jose Mijares and Jesse Crain will serve as the main set up men,with Pat Neshek, Clay Condrey and Brian Duensing in the wings. Need a waiver wire closer, here you go

After Rauch proves he's not worth being a closer, and after the Twins try other options on their bench not named Liriano, they bite the bullet and trade for Heath Bell.

The only time Rauch has gotten a legitimate opportunity to close was in 2008 with the Nats, when he was completely fine (2.98 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, 44-7 K/BB ratio in 48 IP). He's got career #'s of 3.79 ERA/1.23 WHIP, which are pretty respectable stats. I wouldn't automatically discount him.Now, they may trade for Bell anyway since he's more of a lights-out type of guy and they've seemingly got some more money to spend...but in my opinion it's not a luxury they necessarily NEED in order to compete.

 

[JohnnyU]

The Twins closer is.......Jon RauchLa Velle E. Neal III Twins manager Ron Gardenhire just announced that Jon Rauch will be the closer when the regular season begins on Monday in Anaheim.He announced over the weekend that he would try a closer-by-committee approach, but it is not surprising that he opted for a more structured system. Gardenhire pointed out that their bullpen has operated well when everyone knows their roles.Rauch, 31, has 26 career saves, including 17 with Washington in 2008. He's not overpowering but should make up for that with mentality and demeanor.``You lose a closer and you have to ad lib a little bit, we all know that.'' Gardenhire said. ``The best thing is for us to get on our way here and this guy is our closer and we'll go from there and see what happens.''Gardenhire said that Rauch is eager to prove he's up for the challenge.Matt Guerrier, Jose Mijares and Jesse Crain will serve as the main set up men,with Pat Neshek, Clay Condrey and Brian Duensing in the wings. Need a waiver wire closer, here you go

After Rauch proves he's not worth being a closer, and after the Twins try other options on their bench not named Liriano, they bite the bullet and trade for Heath Bell.

The only time Rauch has gotten a legitimate opportunity to close was in 2008 with the Nats, when he was completely fine (2.98 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, 44-7 K/BB ratio in 48 IP). He's got career #'s of 3.79 ERA/1.23 WHIP, which are pretty respectable stats. I wouldn't automatically discount him.Now, they may trade for Bell anyway since he's more of a lights-out type of guy and they've seemingly got some more money to spend...but in my opinion it's not a luxury they necessarily NEED in order to compete.

Didn't Rauch blow 16 saves (over half) that same year? As far as your comment, "it's not a luxury they necessarily NEED", I beg to differ if they are in contention. The difference between Nathan and Rauch is more than a few games IMO.

 

[the moops]

Didn't Rauch blow 16 saves (over half) that same year?

He blew 6 saves.In the 1st half, in 2008, he had 17 saves, and 5 blown saves. An ERA of 2.85, WHIP of 1.014, SO/9 of 8.2, SO/BB of 6.14. Those are some nice numbers, besides the 5 blown saves.