Fantasy Football - Footballguys Forums
This is a sample guest message. Register a free account today to become a member! Once signed in, you'll be able to participate on this site by adding your own topics and posts, as well as connect with other members through your own private inbox!
***Official*** Closers on shaky ground thread (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter culdeus
- Start date
Angry Beavers
Footballguy
Benitez
Gordon
Julio
are the first few to come to mind
Gordon
Julio
are the first few to come to mind
Gonzo Stokes
Footballguy
Lights On Lidge
culdeus
Footballguy
Howry will be closing games in Chicago over Dumpster before the end of April.
RedRaiders
Mr. +EV
The Phils have no one BUT Gordon (he has looked fine in ST). Dont buy into the "Ryan Madson will take over" hype. Right now, he is clearly the most reliable on that list.
Jefferson the Caregiver
Rebel Without A Pause
Dempster and Benitez for sure...accidents waiting too happen.
Fla\/\/ed
Footballguy
Many people feel Saito's age will catch up with him. When you combine that with Broxton's skills and sick numbers from last year many people feel he will take over as closer. That may be a year away because Saito did quite well last year.
Last edited by a moderator:
my man otis
Footballguy
todd jones.
he wasn't all that good last year and zumaya is waiting behind him. I see zumaya as the closer by midseason, if not sooner.
he wasn't all that good last year and zumaya is waiting behind him. I see zumaya as the closer by midseason, if not sooner.
Jefferson the Caregiver
Rebel Without A Pause
Dotel already hurt. Says not for long but it looks like Riske is the guy for now in KC.
Galileo
Footballguy
I got Jones on my roster as well. Unfortunately, Zumaya went three picks later and I had no chance to handcuff him. Maybe I should have grabbed Zumaya first. 
shuke
Black Ice Skeptic
Howry will be closing games in Chicago over Dumpster before the end of April.
Mr. Pickles
Footballguy
No faith that Gagne is healthy or effective. None.
Plenty of other situations are ugly, but for some reason people are buying into Gagne being healthy. Starting on the DL is not a good sign here despite what others may argue.
I also think Lidge is a mental patient in a uniform.
Plenty of other situations are ugly, but for some reason people are buying into Gagne being healthy. Starting on the DL is not a good sign here despite what others may argue.
I also think Lidge is a mental patient in a uniform.
Fear & Loathing
Footballguy
More than solid. Wasn't he basically the best relief pitcher in the NL in last season?Broxton is an animal, but I can't see putting Saito on a "shaky ground" list of closers.And I know I'm in the minority, but I don't think Armando Benitez is on shaky ground at all. I think he's in for a very good season...and outside of Lincecum, there's
in line to take over even if Benitez did stumble a bit out of the gate.
Widbil83
Footballguy
I bought into that Gagne being healty idea in one of my fantasy leagues.
Doctor Detroit
Please remove your headgear
Unless Jones gets injured, this is doubtful. Zumaya is still working his out pitch to close and many around the organization feel he is a year away. If Jones blows a bunch of saves or gets hurt, Rodney could actually close.
bialczabub
Lord of the Flies
Borowski had a poor outing today with nothing on the line. How short a leash is he on? And Cabrera is the guy that fills in, right?
my man otis
Footballguy
still early, but yes. and i'm not so sure. roberto hernandez has RP experience before.
Fear & Loathing
Footballguy
If he falters to the point that they have to replace him, who takes over: Brandon Lyon or Tony Pena?After today Valverde is dead to me.
Gottabesweet
Footballguy
Why Wickman?
Doctor Detroit
Please remove your headgear
Julio blows his first save opportunity against the powerful Nats. 
orcinus
Footballguy
Nothing, other than the ame reason his name is brought up every year.He's older than dirt.At some point, time will catch up.
Fla\/\/ed
Footballguy
But it's more than age.... his name is brought up this season with the additions of Rafael Soriano and Mike Gonzalez. Either of those can step in if Wickman struggles.
The Houston Stallions
Footballguy
Dotel to the DL. I didn't catch how far back it was dated. Riske will close if they get a chance against Boston.
The Houston Stallions
Footballguy
I'm wondering why Zumaya has yet to pitch this year. Today would have been a gret time to use him with eveyone else melting down
acefootball
Footballguy
He pitched 2 innings on opening day.
The Houston Stallions
Footballguy
Thanks. Not sure how I missed that.
Kevin Ashcraft
Footballguy
Dotel not eligible to come off until 4/14 so Riske may get several chances in the next 10 days.
Bullpen Report - Week 1
From Rotoworld...
http://rotoworld.com/content/features/colu...articleid=28029
Welcome to this year's first installment of the Bullpen Report. In this space each week I'll keep you up to date on the happenings in all 30 major league bullpens. That will include evaluating each closer and rating their security level, but also deciphering who the important setup men are and keeping an eye on who might be next in line for saves. At the end of the column, you should have a good handle on the top of every bullpen in the majors.
It's quite a bit easier to follow bullpen rankings at the start of the season. Many roles were settled well before spring training, allowing fantasy owners more time to look for potential bargains or roster quality setup men. However, as the season progresses, closers swap in and out, setup men are reevaluated due to injuries and minor league callups, and teams adjust their strategies while deciding to go for it all or look to the future.
However, starting in week one, there are first-mover advantages to being on top of these situations. Even if it doesn't involve a closer losing his job, there are still profit and loss opportunities as well as long-term investments to consider. At the end of the day, the goal is to get the maximum return on all your players, either through performance or trade, and that's what I'm focused on supporting.
All closers are rated in one of the following categories: Locked In, Secure, Shaky, In Danger, Filling-in, or DL.
Arizona Diamondbacks
Closer: Jose Valverde (Secure)
Key setup men: Brandon Lyon, Brandon Medders, Tony Pena
Valverde saved the Diamondbacks' first game of the season, then blew a one-run lead and took the loss against the Rockies the following day. He wasn't really as poor as the final numbers indicated on Wednesday, and he's in no danger of losing his job. Good health would allow him to be a top 20 closer. Former closer Brandon Lyon is next in line, with youngsters like Brandon Medders and Tony Pena acting as fallback options. None of the group would be an exciting option at this time.
Atlanta Braves
Closer: Bob Wickman (Secure)
Key setup men: Rafael Soriano, Mike Gonzalez, Oscar Villareal
Everything went according to plan for the Braves on Opening Day. Their bullpen, a problem in year's past, threw four scoreless innings in a tie game, allowing Wickman to pick up the win after Edgar Renteria homered in the 10th inning. Wickman will continue to hold the job while healthy, but he's already 38 and is just two years removed from performance issues.
It would be interesting to see which new acquisition would replace Wickman should he be removed from the role. Gonzalez has more experience finishing games, but Soriano may be the better pitcher. Both are worth owning in deep mixed or NL-only formats even now, and both could be top 15 closers if given an opportunity.
Baltimore Orioles
Closer: Chris Ray (Secure)
Key setup men: Danys Baez, Chad Bradford, Jamie Walker
Ray has yet to pitch as of this writing, but the Orioles' bullpen figures to remain a predictable one throughout the season. Ray has a track record of durability and success, so it'd be a surprise if he weren't the closer from start to finish. Former Devil Rays' closer Danys Baez is next in line, although he'd be nothing more than a mediocre option.
Boston Red Sox
Closer: Jonathan Papelbon (Locked In)
Key setup men: Joel Pineiro, Mike Timlin (DL), Hideki Okajima
Now that the Red Sox have decided to go with Papelbon in the bullpen, don't expect them to change their mind any time soon. The best opportunity to move the youngster to the rotation is in spring training, and with that time having passed, it's highly unlikely the team will revisit the decision.
Should something happen to the right-hander, the club would probably go with Joel Pineiro after considering using him as their closer this winter. If he doesn't adjust well to the bullpen, old standby Mike Timlin or new import Hideki Okajima might be given a chance.
Chicago Cubs
Closer: Ryan Dempster (Secure)
Key setup men: Bob Howry, Kerry Wood (DL), Scott Eyre
Dempster had a strong spring and threw a scoreless inning in his season debut, so he looks like a safer pick now than he did in the second half of last season. Kerry Wood could be back in another few weeks, and he would be the favorite to take over for an injured or struggling Dempster. However, that would require Wood to be both healthy and productive, and veteran owners know better than to expect such a scenario. Bob Howry, a consistently underrated reliever, would be the better and more probable choice.
Chicago White Sox
Closer: Bobby Jenks (Shaky)
Key setup men: Mike MacDougal, Matt Thornton, Nick Masset
Despite hitting the mid-90s on the radar gun this spring, manager Ozzie Guillen hinted that Matt Thornton may be the White Sox closer until Jenks starts showing increased velocity. That may surprise some, but when you've got poor command and a straight fastball, 100-MPH heat really is that big of a deal. While I don't buy that there's anything to Guillen's statement, Jenks remains a risky option. Weight, control, and injury issues are still very significant concerns, and he's going to disappoint his owners one of these years.
Should Jenks be pulled from the role, Mike MacDougal remains a better bet to succeed the big right-hander. MacDougal has previous closing experience and better stuff than Thornton, and he was rather successful after coming over from the Royals last summer. MacDougal himself is also an injury risk, so Thornton and promising rookie Nick Masset are also worth monitoring.
Cincinnati Reds
Closer: David Weathers (Shaky), Mike Stanton (Shaky)
Key setup men: Todd Coffey, Jon Coutlangus
The Reds figure to go with the same frustrating closer situation that they employed in 2006, splitting the role between Weathers and Stanton depending on matchups. Right-hander Todd Coffey's strong spring rejuvenates thoughts that he may eventually take over the job, but the club will probably look for extended performance from Coffey before trying him at closer again. Surprisingly, manager Jerry Narron said that rookie Jon Coutlangus would start the ninth inning today if a left-hander were due up. I'll believe that one when I see it, but it does put Coutlangus on the map.
Cleveland Indians
Closer: Joe Borowski (Secure)
Key setup men: Roberto Hernandez, Rafael Betancourt, Fernando Cabrera
Borowski struggled in the Indians' opener, and then recorded a save on Wednesday. He's a good bet for 30 unspectacular saves, assuming the injuries that have plagued him previously don't act up again. 42 year-old Roberto Hernandez may be next on the depth chart, but the team would have to strongly consider going with a younger option like Rafael Betancourt or potential closer of the future Fernando Cabrera. Both would be better options, with Betancourt more likely to succeed in the short-term.
Colorado Rockies
Closer: Brian Fuentes (Secure)
Key setup men: LaTroy Hawkins, Manny Corpas, Ramon Ramirez
The Rockies are going to do their best to remain in contention in the NL West this season, but they're likely to be out of the race by the end of July and Fuentes could be trade bait if that happens. While he's likely to continue performing like an average closer, a trade to a contending team that would ask Fuentes to pitch the eighth inning would destroy his value. He's fine to ride for now, but you may want to start fielding offers before July hits. LaTroy Hawkins is the incumbent former closer, but youngsters Manny Corpas and Ramon Ramirez are more long-term options. By mid-season, Corpas or a current minor leaguer would be the favorite to take over for Fuentes.
Detroit Tigers
Closer: Todd Jones (Secure)
Key setup men: Joel Zuamaya, Fernando Rodney, Wilfredo Ledezma
Jones pitched a scoreless inning on Opening Day, then followed it up by recording a save on Wednesday. I was tempted to list him as shaky before he even did anything wrong this season. Between significant injury concerns and a lack of dominance while healthy, it'd be shocking if Jones wasn't replaced as closer at some point this year. At that time, everyone's favorite setup man Zumaya would take over, and instantly be a top 10 closer.
Florida Marlins
Closer: Jorge Julio (Secure)
Key setup men: Taylor Tankersley (DL), Matt Lindstrom, Kevin Gregg
Despite an awful outing that saw him put six men on base and retire just one opposing batter on Wednesday, Julio is rather secure in his job with the Marlins. The team didn't trade for a veteran closer just to shift him aside after a few poor outings, so he has more job security than someone of his talents would normally have. If you're willing to accept below average production from a closer, he's fine to leave active.
Despite currently on the disabled list, Tankersley would be next in line for saves should Julio eventually be removed. He has top 20 closer potential, so the left-hander is worth monitoring closely. Spring darlings Matt Lindstrom and Henry Owens would be the team's current options for the role.
Houston Astros
Closer: Brad Lidge (In Danger)
Key setup men: Dan Wheeler, Chad Qualls, Trevor Miller
At this point in his career, Lidge is nothing but a ticking time bomb. Fantasy owners and media members alike will have a hard time forgetting his unreal 2004 and 2005 campaigns, but Lidge has now been awful for a full 12 months. He showed nothing impressive at all last season, had an absolutely awful spring, and then proceeded to blow the Astros' first game of the season. There's always the possibility that he'll rebound at some point, but Lidge is only a few poor outings away from losing his job. As a result, he's worth shopping to see if any of your league members remain optimistic.
Dan Wheeler, who blew the Astros' second game of the season by allowing two runs in the eighth inning, is next in line. The right-hander has been a quality option ever since coming over from the Mets in 2004, and he'd be an underrated option should he get a chance to close.
Kansas City Royals
Closer: Octavio Dotel (DL), David Riske (Filling-in)
Key setup men: Joel Peralta, Joakim Soria
A strained oblique muscle sent Dotel to the disabled list on Wednesday. The move was made retroactive to March 30, so he should be back within 10 days if the injury heals as expected. David Riske will fill in while Dotel is out. The former Indian and Red Sox has a reputation for performing poorly in pressure situations, but he's generally been a quality reliever during his career and deserves another chance. Dotel's injury isn't of any long-term concern, so the DL stint shouldn't affect his value much upon returning.
Los Angeles Angels
Closer: Francisco Rodriguez (Locked In)
Key setup men: Scot Shields, Justin Speier, Darren Oliver
K-Rod pitched a scoreless ninth inning against the Rangers on Opening Day to record a save, then picked up a second save despite allowing an earned run on Wednesday. There's currently some pretty incriminating pictures and video clips of K-Rod floating around the internet that show the right-hander with a substance under his hat and repeatedly rubbing the baseball. It's probably nothing to be worried about, so if the Rodriguez owner in your league reads too much into them, make a move.
Los Angeles Dodgers
Closer: Takashi Saito (Secure)
Key setup men: Jonathan Broxton, Chad Billingsley, Rudy Seanez
Despite 107 strikeouts in 78 1/3 innings for the Dodgers last season, Saito didn't receive the attention normally reserved for rookies who dominate that often. And while the right-hander is plenty talented and could fall off a good deal and still remain an above average closer, Saito is likely to disappoint those expecting a repeat. He's already 37 years old, and figures to have difficulty as the National League continues adjusting to his top-notch slider and mediocre fastball.
Broxton is behind only Joel Zumaya in terms of exciting potential among setup men, and since he's the better bet to stay healthy, he's also probably the better investment. Broxton could be a top 5 closer while pitching half his games at Dodger Stadium, and Saito owners should go through the trouble of rostering Broxton all year.
Milwaukee Brewers
Closer: Francisco Cordero (Secure)
Key setup men: Derrick Turnbow, Matt Wise, Carlos Villanueva
Cordero recorded saves on both Tuesday and Wednesday, striking out four and not allowing a base runner in the process. His strong finish with the Brewers last season should afford him a few poor outings this year, so he's got a strong hold on the job for now. Extended struggles would put former closer Turnbow back in the mix after the young right-hander had an impressive spring.
Minnesota Twins
Closer: Joe Nathan (Locked In)
Key setup men: Juan Rincon, Jesse Crain, Pat Neshek
It's already business as usual for Nathan, who recorded saves in both of the Twins' first two games of the season. There's little reason to expect the Twins to need another closer this season, but they're well stocked with three excellent setup men in Rincon, Crain, and Neshek. All three would be legitimates candidates for next in line on most teams, but Rincon would likely get the nod given his seniority.
New York Mets
Closer: Billy Wagner (Locked In)
Key setup men: Aaron Heilman, Pedro Feliciano, Ambiorix Burgos
Wagner threw a scoreless inning against the Cardinals on Sunday night, then followed it up with his first save of the season and 325th of his career on Tuesday. In case of emergency, Heilman will be the substitute to finish games. If pitching coach Rick Peterson can help Burgos harness his impressive arsenal, perhaps he'll be next in line by mid-season.
New York Yankees
Closer: Mariano Rivera (Locked In)
Key setup men: Kyle Farnsworth, Scott Proctor, Luis Vizcaino
Fun with statistics: Rivera's average season, through age 36, is 5-3, 32 saves, 61 strikeouts, and a 2.28 ERA in 68 innings of work. This includes Rivera's first season in which he was a part-time starter and posted a 5.51 ERA, and also includes another season when Rivera acted as a setup man. Rumor has it he's almost earned manager Joe Torre's trust as well.
Oakland Athletics
Closer: Huston Street (Locked In)
Key setup men: Justin Duchscherer, Kiko Calero, Alan Embree
Street has yet to appear in a game for the Athletics, but he remains one of the best values among the elite closers. Many fantasy owners were disappointed with Street in 2006 after he posted a rather pedestrian 3.31 ERA and also missed time with a groin injury. However, the young right-hander still recorded 37 saves and posted better peripherals than he did during his dominant 2005 campaign. Expect another big season.
Should Street go down, Duchscherer would be the choice to fill in. When not battling various injuries, Duchscherer is one of the game's top setup men, and there's no reason to think he'd have trouble converting to a closing role.
Philadelphia Phillies
Closer: Tom Gordon (Locked In)
Key setup men: Ryan Madson, Geoff Geary, Antonio Alfonseca
The 39 year-old Gordon threw a scoreless inning on Opening Day, then blew a two-run lead against the Braves on Wednesday. His command was fine and his stuff was strong as ever, so there was nothing to worry about in the outing. And while Gordon is far from without risk this season, he's still locked in to his closing role due to a lack of quality options in the rest of the Phillies' bullpen.
The club hopes that Madson will step up to ninth inning duties in time, but he's converting back from acting mostly as a starter last season and still needs to find his 2004 form. The rest of the bullpen is filled with mediocrity or worse, so Philadelphia's playoff chances have a lot to do with Gordon's health and Madson's productivity.
Pittsburgh Pirates
Closer: Salomon Torres (Secure)
Key setup men: Matt Capps, Damaso Marte, Jonah Bayliss,
The early major league saves leader, Torres has recorded a save in all three of the Pirates' games thus far. The right-hander threw a pair of scoreless innings in his first two appearances, and then allowed one run in a two-run game on Wednesday. Torres has been a fine reliever for three years running and should do a solid job while acting as the Pirates' closer. Matt Capps or youngster Jonah Bayliss would step in to the closer's role if needed later in the season.
San Diego Padres
Closer: Trevor Hoffman (Locked In)
Key setup men: Scott Linebrink, Cla Meredith, Heath Bell
As of this writing, Hoffman has yet to appear in a game this season. Although he turns 40 in October, Hoffman is as good a bet as most relievers to succeed given his intelligence, command, and reliance on a changeup. Every save he records this season will further pad his all-time saves lead, so there's no shortage of reasons for him to stay motivated. As has been the case for the last few years, Scott Linebrink serves as Hoffman's caddy.
San Francisco Giants
Closer: Armando Benitez (Secure)
Key setup men: Kevin Correia, Steve Kline, Jonathan Sanchez
It looked like Benitez might have to battle promising youngster Brian Wilson for closing duties this spring, but Wilson struggled and Benitez posted an ERA under 1.00. With Wilson demoted to the minors and no other options to close on the big league roster, Benitez has a job locked up until he's either traded or injured. Correia would be the current favorite to take over, but one of the club's younger arms would likely take over later in the year.
Seattle Mariners
Closer: J.J. Putz (Locked In)
Key setup men: Chris Reitsma, Julio Mateo, Brandon Morrow
A strained elbow put Putz's status for Opening Day in doubt, but the right-hander was ready in time and pitched a scoreless ninth inning in a four-run game against the Athletics. Repeating last year's 104/13 K/BB ratio is going to be rather tough and it's always worrisome when elbow injuries strike during spring training, but Putz has the ability to perform like an elite closer. In the short-term, Reitsma would get anointed closer should Putz's elbow issues resurface.
St. Louis Cardinals
Closer: Jason Isringhausen (Locked In)
Key setup men: Brad Thompson, Tyler Johnson, Russ Springer
With Adam Wainwright now in the rotation, the Cardinals are forced to rely on Isringhausen to be both healthy and productive this season. That means he'll get a longer leash than normal when he's struggling, and he may also be asked to pitch through nagging injuries that otherwise would have sidelined the right-hander. Fortunately for the Cardinals, Isringhausen got off to a good start by throwing a scoreless inning against the Mets on Wednesday.
If off-season hip surgery proves to be an issue, the club might consider moving Wainwright back to the bullpen. However, since the club is also short in starting pitching, Wainwright's success while starting games would likely thwart those plans. If that were the case, Brad Thompson would take over.
Tampa Bay Devil Rays
Closer: Al Reyes (Shaky)
Key setup men: Brian Stokes, Ruddy Lugo, Juan Salas
As has been the case ever since Danys Baez departed, the Devil Rays' bullpen figures to be a mess again this year. Reyes starts the year at closer, something nobody was predicting even a month ago. The 37 year-old right-hander is a quality pitcher and can probably hold down the job, but he missed all of 2006 after undergoing Tommy John surgery and has an inconsistent past. Youngsters like Stokes, Lugo, and Salas and minor leaguers Seth McClung and Chad Orvella could all figure into the mix at some point, but it's anyone's guess as to who will be favored. It's best to stay away.
Texas Rangers
Closer: Eric Gagne (DL), Akinori Otsuka (Filling-in)
Key setup men: Joaquin Benoit, C.J. Wilson
Gagne was placed on the DL on Wednesday as he still tries to recover from back and elbow surgeries. He's expected back as early as April 13, but a setback would be far from surprising. Since he's not going to be able to dial his fastball up as high as he used to and he's also still an injury risk, Gagne seems like an especially poor investment this season. There's no point selling him at a low point if you already own him, but a few weeks of decent stats and he's worth floating around your league. Otstuka should do a fine job filling in, although he's likely to regress from last year's numbers.
Toronto Blue Jays
Closer: B.J. Ryan (Locked In)
Key setup men: Jason Frasor, Jeremy Accardo, Shaun Marcum
Nothing surprising here, as Ryan recorded his first save by throwing a scoreless ninth against the Tigers on Opening Day. He'll remain an elite closer. Jason Frasor has stepped up as the eighth inning man, recording a win on Monday and pitching out of a tough jam in a one-run game on Wednesday. He has closing experience, so he's the club's second option.
Washington Nationals
Closer: Chad Cordero (Locked In)
Key setup men: Jon Rauch, Ryan Wagner, Jesus Colome
During the odd occurrence when the Nationals actually have a lead in the ninth inning, Cordero will serve as a fine closer capable of good ratios and a solid strikeout rate. Unfortunately for his owners, he could save half his club's wins and still not make it to 30 saves this year. A mid-season trade remains a possibility, but since he'll require a hefty price in a trade, he's likely to end up a closer somewhere else if moved. Rauch is the clear favorite to take over should that occur.
From Rotoworld...
http://rotoworld.com/content/features/colu...articleid=28029
Welcome to this year's first installment of the Bullpen Report. In this space each week I'll keep you up to date on the happenings in all 30 major league bullpens. That will include evaluating each closer and rating their security level, but also deciphering who the important setup men are and keeping an eye on who might be next in line for saves. At the end of the column, you should have a good handle on the top of every bullpen in the majors.
It's quite a bit easier to follow bullpen rankings at the start of the season. Many roles were settled well before spring training, allowing fantasy owners more time to look for potential bargains or roster quality setup men. However, as the season progresses, closers swap in and out, setup men are reevaluated due to injuries and minor league callups, and teams adjust their strategies while deciding to go for it all or look to the future.
However, starting in week one, there are first-mover advantages to being on top of these situations. Even if it doesn't involve a closer losing his job, there are still profit and loss opportunities as well as long-term investments to consider. At the end of the day, the goal is to get the maximum return on all your players, either through performance or trade, and that's what I'm focused on supporting.
All closers are rated in one of the following categories: Locked In, Secure, Shaky, In Danger, Filling-in, or DL.
Arizona Diamondbacks
Closer: Jose Valverde (Secure)
Key setup men: Brandon Lyon, Brandon Medders, Tony Pena
Valverde saved the Diamondbacks' first game of the season, then blew a one-run lead and took the loss against the Rockies the following day. He wasn't really as poor as the final numbers indicated on Wednesday, and he's in no danger of losing his job. Good health would allow him to be a top 20 closer. Former closer Brandon Lyon is next in line, with youngsters like Brandon Medders and Tony Pena acting as fallback options. None of the group would be an exciting option at this time.
Atlanta Braves
Closer: Bob Wickman (Secure)
Key setup men: Rafael Soriano, Mike Gonzalez, Oscar Villareal
Everything went according to plan for the Braves on Opening Day. Their bullpen, a problem in year's past, threw four scoreless innings in a tie game, allowing Wickman to pick up the win after Edgar Renteria homered in the 10th inning. Wickman will continue to hold the job while healthy, but he's already 38 and is just two years removed from performance issues.
It would be interesting to see which new acquisition would replace Wickman should he be removed from the role. Gonzalez has more experience finishing games, but Soriano may be the better pitcher. Both are worth owning in deep mixed or NL-only formats even now, and both could be top 15 closers if given an opportunity.
Baltimore Orioles
Closer: Chris Ray (Secure)
Key setup men: Danys Baez, Chad Bradford, Jamie Walker
Ray has yet to pitch as of this writing, but the Orioles' bullpen figures to remain a predictable one throughout the season. Ray has a track record of durability and success, so it'd be a surprise if he weren't the closer from start to finish. Former Devil Rays' closer Danys Baez is next in line, although he'd be nothing more than a mediocre option.
Boston Red Sox
Closer: Jonathan Papelbon (Locked In)
Key setup men: Joel Pineiro, Mike Timlin (DL), Hideki Okajima
Now that the Red Sox have decided to go with Papelbon in the bullpen, don't expect them to change their mind any time soon. The best opportunity to move the youngster to the rotation is in spring training, and with that time having passed, it's highly unlikely the team will revisit the decision.
Should something happen to the right-hander, the club would probably go with Joel Pineiro after considering using him as their closer this winter. If he doesn't adjust well to the bullpen, old standby Mike Timlin or new import Hideki Okajima might be given a chance.
Chicago Cubs
Closer: Ryan Dempster (Secure)
Key setup men: Bob Howry, Kerry Wood (DL), Scott Eyre
Dempster had a strong spring and threw a scoreless inning in his season debut, so he looks like a safer pick now than he did in the second half of last season. Kerry Wood could be back in another few weeks, and he would be the favorite to take over for an injured or struggling Dempster. However, that would require Wood to be both healthy and productive, and veteran owners know better than to expect such a scenario. Bob Howry, a consistently underrated reliever, would be the better and more probable choice.
Chicago White Sox
Closer: Bobby Jenks (Shaky)
Key setup men: Mike MacDougal, Matt Thornton, Nick Masset
Despite hitting the mid-90s on the radar gun this spring, manager Ozzie Guillen hinted that Matt Thornton may be the White Sox closer until Jenks starts showing increased velocity. That may surprise some, but when you've got poor command and a straight fastball, 100-MPH heat really is that big of a deal. While I don't buy that there's anything to Guillen's statement, Jenks remains a risky option. Weight, control, and injury issues are still very significant concerns, and he's going to disappoint his owners one of these years.
Should Jenks be pulled from the role, Mike MacDougal remains a better bet to succeed the big right-hander. MacDougal has previous closing experience and better stuff than Thornton, and he was rather successful after coming over from the Royals last summer. MacDougal himself is also an injury risk, so Thornton and promising rookie Nick Masset are also worth monitoring.
Cincinnati Reds
Closer: David Weathers (Shaky), Mike Stanton (Shaky)
Key setup men: Todd Coffey, Jon Coutlangus
The Reds figure to go with the same frustrating closer situation that they employed in 2006, splitting the role between Weathers and Stanton depending on matchups. Right-hander Todd Coffey's strong spring rejuvenates thoughts that he may eventually take over the job, but the club will probably look for extended performance from Coffey before trying him at closer again. Surprisingly, manager Jerry Narron said that rookie Jon Coutlangus would start the ninth inning today if a left-hander were due up. I'll believe that one when I see it, but it does put Coutlangus on the map.
Cleveland Indians
Closer: Joe Borowski (Secure)
Key setup men: Roberto Hernandez, Rafael Betancourt, Fernando Cabrera
Borowski struggled in the Indians' opener, and then recorded a save on Wednesday. He's a good bet for 30 unspectacular saves, assuming the injuries that have plagued him previously don't act up again. 42 year-old Roberto Hernandez may be next on the depth chart, but the team would have to strongly consider going with a younger option like Rafael Betancourt or potential closer of the future Fernando Cabrera. Both would be better options, with Betancourt more likely to succeed in the short-term.
Colorado Rockies
Closer: Brian Fuentes (Secure)
Key setup men: LaTroy Hawkins, Manny Corpas, Ramon Ramirez
The Rockies are going to do their best to remain in contention in the NL West this season, but they're likely to be out of the race by the end of July and Fuentes could be trade bait if that happens. While he's likely to continue performing like an average closer, a trade to a contending team that would ask Fuentes to pitch the eighth inning would destroy his value. He's fine to ride for now, but you may want to start fielding offers before July hits. LaTroy Hawkins is the incumbent former closer, but youngsters Manny Corpas and Ramon Ramirez are more long-term options. By mid-season, Corpas or a current minor leaguer would be the favorite to take over for Fuentes.
Detroit Tigers
Closer: Todd Jones (Secure)
Key setup men: Joel Zuamaya, Fernando Rodney, Wilfredo Ledezma
Jones pitched a scoreless inning on Opening Day, then followed it up by recording a save on Wednesday. I was tempted to list him as shaky before he even did anything wrong this season. Between significant injury concerns and a lack of dominance while healthy, it'd be shocking if Jones wasn't replaced as closer at some point this year. At that time, everyone's favorite setup man Zumaya would take over, and instantly be a top 10 closer.
Florida Marlins
Closer: Jorge Julio (Secure)
Key setup men: Taylor Tankersley (DL), Matt Lindstrom, Kevin Gregg
Despite an awful outing that saw him put six men on base and retire just one opposing batter on Wednesday, Julio is rather secure in his job with the Marlins. The team didn't trade for a veteran closer just to shift him aside after a few poor outings, so he has more job security than someone of his talents would normally have. If you're willing to accept below average production from a closer, he's fine to leave active.
Despite currently on the disabled list, Tankersley would be next in line for saves should Julio eventually be removed. He has top 20 closer potential, so the left-hander is worth monitoring closely. Spring darlings Matt Lindstrom and Henry Owens would be the team's current options for the role.
Houston Astros
Closer: Brad Lidge (In Danger)
Key setup men: Dan Wheeler, Chad Qualls, Trevor Miller
At this point in his career, Lidge is nothing but a ticking time bomb. Fantasy owners and media members alike will have a hard time forgetting his unreal 2004 and 2005 campaigns, but Lidge has now been awful for a full 12 months. He showed nothing impressive at all last season, had an absolutely awful spring, and then proceeded to blow the Astros' first game of the season. There's always the possibility that he'll rebound at some point, but Lidge is only a few poor outings away from losing his job. As a result, he's worth shopping to see if any of your league members remain optimistic.
Dan Wheeler, who blew the Astros' second game of the season by allowing two runs in the eighth inning, is next in line. The right-hander has been a quality option ever since coming over from the Mets in 2004, and he'd be an underrated option should he get a chance to close.
Kansas City Royals
Closer: Octavio Dotel (DL), David Riske (Filling-in)
Key setup men: Joel Peralta, Joakim Soria
A strained oblique muscle sent Dotel to the disabled list on Wednesday. The move was made retroactive to March 30, so he should be back within 10 days if the injury heals as expected. David Riske will fill in while Dotel is out. The former Indian and Red Sox has a reputation for performing poorly in pressure situations, but he's generally been a quality reliever during his career and deserves another chance. Dotel's injury isn't of any long-term concern, so the DL stint shouldn't affect his value much upon returning.
Los Angeles Angels
Closer: Francisco Rodriguez (Locked In)
Key setup men: Scot Shields, Justin Speier, Darren Oliver
K-Rod pitched a scoreless ninth inning against the Rangers on Opening Day to record a save, then picked up a second save despite allowing an earned run on Wednesday. There's currently some pretty incriminating pictures and video clips of K-Rod floating around the internet that show the right-hander with a substance under his hat and repeatedly rubbing the baseball. It's probably nothing to be worried about, so if the Rodriguez owner in your league reads too much into them, make a move.
Los Angeles Dodgers
Closer: Takashi Saito (Secure)
Key setup men: Jonathan Broxton, Chad Billingsley, Rudy Seanez
Despite 107 strikeouts in 78 1/3 innings for the Dodgers last season, Saito didn't receive the attention normally reserved for rookies who dominate that often. And while the right-hander is plenty talented and could fall off a good deal and still remain an above average closer, Saito is likely to disappoint those expecting a repeat. He's already 37 years old, and figures to have difficulty as the National League continues adjusting to his top-notch slider and mediocre fastball.
Broxton is behind only Joel Zumaya in terms of exciting potential among setup men, and since he's the better bet to stay healthy, he's also probably the better investment. Broxton could be a top 5 closer while pitching half his games at Dodger Stadium, and Saito owners should go through the trouble of rostering Broxton all year.
Milwaukee Brewers
Closer: Francisco Cordero (Secure)
Key setup men: Derrick Turnbow, Matt Wise, Carlos Villanueva
Cordero recorded saves on both Tuesday and Wednesday, striking out four and not allowing a base runner in the process. His strong finish with the Brewers last season should afford him a few poor outings this year, so he's got a strong hold on the job for now. Extended struggles would put former closer Turnbow back in the mix after the young right-hander had an impressive spring.
Minnesota Twins
Closer: Joe Nathan (Locked In)
Key setup men: Juan Rincon, Jesse Crain, Pat Neshek
It's already business as usual for Nathan, who recorded saves in both of the Twins' first two games of the season. There's little reason to expect the Twins to need another closer this season, but they're well stocked with three excellent setup men in Rincon, Crain, and Neshek. All three would be legitimates candidates for next in line on most teams, but Rincon would likely get the nod given his seniority.
New York Mets
Closer: Billy Wagner (Locked In)
Key setup men: Aaron Heilman, Pedro Feliciano, Ambiorix Burgos
Wagner threw a scoreless inning against the Cardinals on Sunday night, then followed it up with his first save of the season and 325th of his career on Tuesday. In case of emergency, Heilman will be the substitute to finish games. If pitching coach Rick Peterson can help Burgos harness his impressive arsenal, perhaps he'll be next in line by mid-season.
New York Yankees
Closer: Mariano Rivera (Locked In)
Key setup men: Kyle Farnsworth, Scott Proctor, Luis Vizcaino
Fun with statistics: Rivera's average season, through age 36, is 5-3, 32 saves, 61 strikeouts, and a 2.28 ERA in 68 innings of work. This includes Rivera's first season in which he was a part-time starter and posted a 5.51 ERA, and also includes another season when Rivera acted as a setup man. Rumor has it he's almost earned manager Joe Torre's trust as well.
Oakland Athletics
Closer: Huston Street (Locked In)
Key setup men: Justin Duchscherer, Kiko Calero, Alan Embree
Street has yet to appear in a game for the Athletics, but he remains one of the best values among the elite closers. Many fantasy owners were disappointed with Street in 2006 after he posted a rather pedestrian 3.31 ERA and also missed time with a groin injury. However, the young right-hander still recorded 37 saves and posted better peripherals than he did during his dominant 2005 campaign. Expect another big season.
Should Street go down, Duchscherer would be the choice to fill in. When not battling various injuries, Duchscherer is one of the game's top setup men, and there's no reason to think he'd have trouble converting to a closing role.
Philadelphia Phillies
Closer: Tom Gordon (Locked In)
Key setup men: Ryan Madson, Geoff Geary, Antonio Alfonseca
The 39 year-old Gordon threw a scoreless inning on Opening Day, then blew a two-run lead against the Braves on Wednesday. His command was fine and his stuff was strong as ever, so there was nothing to worry about in the outing. And while Gordon is far from without risk this season, he's still locked in to his closing role due to a lack of quality options in the rest of the Phillies' bullpen.
The club hopes that Madson will step up to ninth inning duties in time, but he's converting back from acting mostly as a starter last season and still needs to find his 2004 form. The rest of the bullpen is filled with mediocrity or worse, so Philadelphia's playoff chances have a lot to do with Gordon's health and Madson's productivity.
Pittsburgh Pirates
Closer: Salomon Torres (Secure)
Key setup men: Matt Capps, Damaso Marte, Jonah Bayliss,
The early major league saves leader, Torres has recorded a save in all three of the Pirates' games thus far. The right-hander threw a pair of scoreless innings in his first two appearances, and then allowed one run in a two-run game on Wednesday. Torres has been a fine reliever for three years running and should do a solid job while acting as the Pirates' closer. Matt Capps or youngster Jonah Bayliss would step in to the closer's role if needed later in the season.
San Diego Padres
Closer: Trevor Hoffman (Locked In)
Key setup men: Scott Linebrink, Cla Meredith, Heath Bell
As of this writing, Hoffman has yet to appear in a game this season. Although he turns 40 in October, Hoffman is as good a bet as most relievers to succeed given his intelligence, command, and reliance on a changeup. Every save he records this season will further pad his all-time saves lead, so there's no shortage of reasons for him to stay motivated. As has been the case for the last few years, Scott Linebrink serves as Hoffman's caddy.
San Francisco Giants
Closer: Armando Benitez (Secure)
Key setup men: Kevin Correia, Steve Kline, Jonathan Sanchez
It looked like Benitez might have to battle promising youngster Brian Wilson for closing duties this spring, but Wilson struggled and Benitez posted an ERA under 1.00. With Wilson demoted to the minors and no other options to close on the big league roster, Benitez has a job locked up until he's either traded or injured. Correia would be the current favorite to take over, but one of the club's younger arms would likely take over later in the year.
Seattle Mariners
Closer: J.J. Putz (Locked In)
Key setup men: Chris Reitsma, Julio Mateo, Brandon Morrow
A strained elbow put Putz's status for Opening Day in doubt, but the right-hander was ready in time and pitched a scoreless ninth inning in a four-run game against the Athletics. Repeating last year's 104/13 K/BB ratio is going to be rather tough and it's always worrisome when elbow injuries strike during spring training, but Putz has the ability to perform like an elite closer. In the short-term, Reitsma would get anointed closer should Putz's elbow issues resurface.
St. Louis Cardinals
Closer: Jason Isringhausen (Locked In)
Key setup men: Brad Thompson, Tyler Johnson, Russ Springer
With Adam Wainwright now in the rotation, the Cardinals are forced to rely on Isringhausen to be both healthy and productive this season. That means he'll get a longer leash than normal when he's struggling, and he may also be asked to pitch through nagging injuries that otherwise would have sidelined the right-hander. Fortunately for the Cardinals, Isringhausen got off to a good start by throwing a scoreless inning against the Mets on Wednesday.
If off-season hip surgery proves to be an issue, the club might consider moving Wainwright back to the bullpen. However, since the club is also short in starting pitching, Wainwright's success while starting games would likely thwart those plans. If that were the case, Brad Thompson would take over.
Tampa Bay Devil Rays
Closer: Al Reyes (Shaky)
Key setup men: Brian Stokes, Ruddy Lugo, Juan Salas
As has been the case ever since Danys Baez departed, the Devil Rays' bullpen figures to be a mess again this year. Reyes starts the year at closer, something nobody was predicting even a month ago. The 37 year-old right-hander is a quality pitcher and can probably hold down the job, but he missed all of 2006 after undergoing Tommy John surgery and has an inconsistent past. Youngsters like Stokes, Lugo, and Salas and minor leaguers Seth McClung and Chad Orvella could all figure into the mix at some point, but it's anyone's guess as to who will be favored. It's best to stay away.
Texas Rangers
Closer: Eric Gagne (DL), Akinori Otsuka (Filling-in)
Key setup men: Joaquin Benoit, C.J. Wilson
Gagne was placed on the DL on Wednesday as he still tries to recover from back and elbow surgeries. He's expected back as early as April 13, but a setback would be far from surprising. Since he's not going to be able to dial his fastball up as high as he used to and he's also still an injury risk, Gagne seems like an especially poor investment this season. There's no point selling him at a low point if you already own him, but a few weeks of decent stats and he's worth floating around your league. Otstuka should do a fine job filling in, although he's likely to regress from last year's numbers.
Toronto Blue Jays
Closer: B.J. Ryan (Locked In)
Key setup men: Jason Frasor, Jeremy Accardo, Shaun Marcum
Nothing surprising here, as Ryan recorded his first save by throwing a scoreless ninth against the Tigers on Opening Day. He'll remain an elite closer. Jason Frasor has stepped up as the eighth inning man, recording a win on Monday and pitching out of a tough jam in a one-run game on Wednesday. He has closing experience, so he's the club's second option.
Washington Nationals
Closer: Chad Cordero (Locked In)
Key setup men: Jon Rauch, Ryan Wagner, Jesus Colome
During the odd occurrence when the Nationals actually have a lead in the ninth inning, Cordero will serve as a fine closer capable of good ratios and a solid strikeout rate. Unfortunately for his owners, he could save half his club's wins and still not make it to 30 saves this year. A mid-season trade remains a possibility, but since he'll require a hefty price in a trade, he's likely to end up a closer somewhere else if moved. Rauch is the clear favorite to take over should that occur.
Angry Beavers
Footballguy
Another pen update from Rotoworld:
It's early in the season, but several teams have already had big shakeups in their bullpens. The pre-season closers for the Astros, Marlins, and Royals are all currently out of jobs for a variety of reasons. Several other clubs have seen their shaky closers establish themselves as more reliable options, making these stoppers less risky investments. Constant reevaluation has become the norm in the world of the always-scrutinized closers, and in this week's column we'll analyze who has seen the biggest change in value.
All closers are rated in one of the following categories: Locked In, Secure, Shaky, In Danger, Filling-in, or DL.
Arizona Diamondbacks
Closer: Jose Valverde (Secure)
Key setup men: Brandon Lyon, Brandon Medders, Tony Pena
Valverde entered the year as one of the more promising closers around, but inconsistency and injuries had held him down before. Neither has been a problem in the early going, as Valverde has converted 4-of-5 saves in the early going. The only runs the right-hander has given up were in his blown save, and only one of those was earned. Valverde easily has top 20 closer potential, and his strong start gives his value a boost. I wouldn't recommend selling-high on this one, at least for now.
Atlanta Braves
Closer: Bob Wickman (Secure)
Key setup men: Rafael Soriano, Mike Gonzalez, Oscar Villareal
The 38-year-old Wickman has been as reliable as ever thus far, recording a win and three saves in four outings without allowing a run to score. He remains a quality option, albeit with more risk than some of the other 'secure' listings in this space.
Baltimore Orioles
Closer: Chris Ray (Secure)
Key setup men: Danys Baez, Chad Bradford, Jamie Walker
In what will undoubtedly be one of the year's most memorable moments, Ray served up a walk-off grand slam to Alex Rodriguez this past week. The right-hander was cruising the first two outs of that save, but came unraveled after almost hitting Derek Jeter and later walking the star shortstop. Things went down hill from there, with Ray hitting Bobby Abreu and then giving up the grand slam. On the plus side, Ray came back the very next day and recorded a perfect save against the Yankees. The lone poor outing shouldn't affect his value at all.
Boston Red Sox
Closer: Jonathan Papelbon (Locked In)
Key setup men: Joel Pineiro, Mike Timlin, Hideki Okajima
Although he's only pitched twice thus far, Papelbon has already reminded his owners just how good he is. In his second outing of the season, Papelbon entered a one-run game with the tying run at third and the go-ahead run on first with one out in the eighth inning. The 26-year-old struck out Michael Young and then got Mark Teixeira to pop out to end the rally. He followed that up with a perfect ninth, recording his second save of the season.
Chicago Cubs
Closer: Ryan Dempster (Secure)
Key setup men: Bob Howry, Kerry Wood (DL), Scott Eyre
It's been awhile since Dempster has looked this good. After struggling through most of the second half last year, the Cubs' closer has bounced back to an impressive start in 2007. Dempster has recorded two saves while striking out five and not allowing a hit in three innings thus far. He remains likely to be inconsistent over the course of a season and its still quite possible he'll lose the job at some point, but he's fine to use for now.
Chicago White Sox
Closer: Bobby Jenks (Secure)
Key setup men: Mike MacDougal, Matt Thornton, Nick Masset
Manager Ozzie Guillen's comments about potentially using Thornton to close with Jenks not throwing hard enough turned out to be bogus, and it's likely that Guillen was just trying to motivate his hefty closer. Jenks blew a one-run lead and took a loss on Monday, but he hasn't allowed a run in any of his other five appearances thus far. He remains a risky option over the long haul, but there's plenty of short-term job security here.
Cincinnati Reds
Closer: David Weathers (Shaky), Mike Stanton (Shaky)
Key setup men: Todd Coffey, Jon Coutlangus
The Reds have generated two save opportunities thus far, with both of them going to Weathers. He converted both saves by throwing scoreless innings of work. Weathers then took a loss after giving up a run in a tie game in the 11th inning against the Diamondbacks, but this was after he had thrown a scoreless 10th inning. He remains the favorite for saves, with Stanton figuring to vulture a fair number of the opportunities. It remains to be seen if Coutlangus would get any opportunities, as the club had alluded to previously.
Cleveland Indians
Closer: Joe Borowski (Secure)
Key setup men: Roberto Hernandez, Rafael Betancourt, Fernando Cabrera
After giving up two runs on Opening Day, Borowski has gone 2-for-2 in save opportunities. However, neither appearance has been all that pretty. In the first, he walked two batters and barely escaped without allowing any runs. In the second, he gave up a run and was later saved by Erick Aybar being caught stealing to end the game. It'll take more than a few sub par outings for Borowski to lose the job, so he remains secure for now.
Colorado Rockies
Closer: Brian Fuentes (Secure)
Key setup men: LaTroy Hawkins, Manny Corpas, Ramon Ramirez
Another veteran off to a slow start, Fuentes has struggled in each of his last two outings. He gave up two runs in the first, but managed to pick up a save anyway. In the second outing, Fuentes gave up one run in a non-save situation. Neither should affect his value much.
Detroit Tigers
Closer: Todd Jones (Secure)
Key setup men: Joel Zumaya, Fernando Rodney, Wilfredo Ledezma
No controversy to see here. Jones has thrown five scoreless innings thus far, notching saves in all four of his opportunities. Zumaya will have to wait his chance.
Florida Marlins
Closer: Henry Owens (Shaky), Jorge Julio (Shaky)
Key setup men: Taylor Tankersley (DL), Matt Lindstrom, Kevin Gregg
The Marlins haven't announced a change in the closer's role, but it's all but assumed that Julio is out of the job for now. Manager Fredi Gonzalez refused to commit to the veteran when asked about the situation, and Owens is the favorite to replace Julio after already being used in close and late situations this season. Julio could be given another chance to redeem himself and might get the job back eventually, so he can't be dropped yet.
In the meantime, Owens is worth picking up in all formats until this situation is a bit clearer. Given that Owens, Julio, and even Tankersley are candidates to close over the rest of the season, selling high on Owens might be a good idea after he notches a few saves. If not, utilizing this bullpen will require constant monitoring and associated transactions.
Houston Astros
Closer: Dan Wheeler (Secure)
Key setup men: Chad Qualls, Brad Lidge, Trevor Miller
Lidge was listed as being in danger when this report came out last week, and he was predictably booted from save situations shortly thereafter. Although he still has the stuff to dominate, Lidge has a lot to prove before he's able to reassume ninth inning duties. It's possible he'll return to the role later in the year, but if Wheeler is performing as well as he has in a setup role the past few seasons, there will be no reason to make the change.
Wheeler isn't off to the best start himself, squandering an eighth inning lead last week and then blowing his first second save opportunity after being anointed closer. Neither is of much long-term concern, and Wheeler has top 10 closer potential. If the Wheeler owner in your league isn't comfortable valuing the right-hander as a legitimate closer, take advantage and make a deal.
Kansas City Royals
Closer: Octavio Dotel (DL), David Riske (Filling-in)
Key setup men: Joel Peralta, Joakim Soria
Riske has received two save opportunities while filling in for Dotel, successfully converting the first and then blowing the second by allowing a three-run homer to Tiger catcher Ivan Rodriguez. Riske took the loss in that second outing. He'll act as closer until Dotel returns, although that date is somewhat up in the air now with Dotel's oblique still bothering him.
Los Angeles Angels
Closer: Francisco Rodriguez (Locked In)
Key setup men: Scot Shields, Justin Speier, Darren Oliver
It turned out that the substance on K-Rod's hat last week was resin, and the right-hander was supposedly cleared of any wrong-doing. It's not something that should affect his value, and Rodriguez has put it behind himself by successfully closing all four opportunities he's been given.
Los Angeles Dodgers
Closer: Takashi Saito (Secure)
Key setup men: Jonathan Broxton, Chad Billingsley, Rudy Seanez
Saito was a candidate to regress in 2007 after a superb 2006 campaign, but nobody has told him that. He's given up one run in 4 2/3 innings while striking out five and recording four saves. The longer he goes without big leaguers figuring out his fastball-slider combination the more confidence you can have in his future projections.
Milwaukee Brewers
Closer: Francisco Cordero (Secure)
Key setup men: Derrick Turnbow, Matt Wise, Carlos Villanueva
It was a slow start to the season for Cordero, who pitched only twice until Wednesday night. Then on Wednesday, Cordero closed out the remainder of the previous day's game in the early evening and then saved the second Brewers-Marlins contest of the day later that night.
Minnesota Twins
Closer: Joe Nathan (Locked In)
Key setup men: Juan Rincon, Jesse Crain, Pat Neshek
Nathan has been perfect thus far, throwing four scoreless innings and recording three saves. There are few surer bets in baseball for consistent excellence.
New York Mets
Closer: Billy Wagner (Locked In)
Key setup men: Aaron Heilman, Pedro Feliciano, Joe Smith, Ambiorix Burgos
A poor finish to the spring hasn't hurt Wagner, as he's thrown three scoreless innings and picked up a save thus far. Rookie Joe Smith is impressing in the early going, having thrown five scoreless through Wednesday's action. He could end the year second or third in line.
New York Yankees
Closer: Mariano Rivera (Locked In)
Key setup men: Kyle Farnsworth, Scott Proctor, Luis Vizcaino
Do we even need to have a Yankees' section when it comes to closers? There's nobody more predictably dominant than Rivera, and the job is his even if he were to blow ten straight saves. The future Hall of Famer hasn't recorded a save yet, but he does have a vulture win in three scoreless innings.
Oakland Athletics
Closer: Huston Street (Locked In)
Key setup men: Justin Duchscherer, Kiko Calero, Alan Embree
The season started well enough for Street, picking up two saves and a win entering Wednesday night. However, last night Street entered a tie game in the top of the ninth and promptly surrendered three runs on three walks and a pair of hits. It's nothing to be concerned with.
Philadelphia Phillies
Closer: Tom Gordon (Locked In)
Key setup men: Ryan Madson, Geoff Geary, Jon Lieber
Gordon has only pitched once since the last column, protecting a three-run lead against the Mets on Wednesday night to pick up his first save of the season. Although he blew a save in his second appearance of the year, he's looked fine thus far.
Pittsburgh Pirates
Closer: Salomon Torres (Secure)
Key setup men: Matt Capps, Damaso Marte, Jonah Bayliss,
It was a fast and productive start for Torres, who saved four games in four outings during the season's first week. However, the tides have turned quickly on Torres, who blew a two-run lead against the Cardinals on Tuesday and then suffered a loss after allowing one run to break a tie game on Wednesday. The poor recent outings won't change Torres' secure hold of the job.
San Diego Padres
Closer: Trevor Hoffman (Locked In)
Key setup men: Scott Linebrink, Cla Meredith, Heath Bell
Four appearances, no runs, two saves, and one win. That sounds about right for the all-time save leader.
San Francisco Giants
Closer: Armando Benitez (Secure)
Key setup men: Kevin Correia, Steve Kline, Jonathan Sanchez
Benitez gave up a two-run homer to Adrian Gonzalez on Tuesday, but the Giants had a three-run lead at the time and he was able to preserve the win despite the long ball. Benitez has walked two and given up four hits in 2 1/3 innings of work to date. It'd take quite a string of poor outings to get him removed from the closer's role given the rest of the club's options.
Seattle Mariners
Closer: J.J. Putz (Locked In)
Key setup men: Chris Reitsma, Julio Mateo, Brandon Morrow
Poor weather conditions have left the Mariners with just five games played thus far. Putz has pitched in two of those games, although neither was a save situation.
St. Louis Cardinals
Closer: Jason Isringhausen (Locked In)
Key setup men: Brad Thompson, Tyler Johnson, Russ Springer
There was some thought in the off-season that Isringhausen wouldn't be ready for Opening Day, but those fears have been put to rest through two weeks. The veteran right-hander has made four appearances in the early going, giving up one run and picking up three saves in the process.
Tampa Bay Devil Rays
Closer: Al Reyes (Secure)
Key setup men: Brian Stokes, Ruddy Lugo, Juan Salas
I'm changing Reyes to secure after a strong first two weeks, with the understanding that he could drop to shaky with a poor handful of outings. Reyes gets the promotion because he's looked strong in his first three appearances, collecting two saves and allowing just one baserunner. The right-hander has earned the right to be given a little slack given his strong performances to date and impressive track record. The rest of the bullpen remains worth monitoring closely, especially Juan Salas and Brian Stokes, but it's Reyes' job to lose now.
Texas Rangers
Closer: Eric Gagne (DL), Akinori Otsuka (Filling-in)
Key setup men: Joaquin Benoit, C.J. Wilson
The Rangers haven't needed him much yet, but Otsuka has done well by not allowing a run in any of this three appearances. However, Gagne is set to come off the disabled list on Friday, and manager Ron Washington has already stated that he'll be given closing duties right away. Those in deep leagues will want to hold on to Otsuka anyway, given that Gagne is no sure thing in terms of health or production.
Toronto Blue Jays
Closer: B.J. Ryan (Locked In)
Key setup men: Jason Frasor, Jeremy Accardo, Shaun Marcum
Ryan is 3-for-4 in save opportunities, with the lone blown save coming when Ryan gave up three runs on five hits against the Devil Rays last week. He's allowed just one baserunner outside of that appearance and remains a top 5 closer.
Washington Nationals
Closer: Chad Cordero (Locked In)
Key setup men: Jon Rauch, Ryan Wagner, Jesus Colome
The Nationals are off to a woeful 1-8 start, and their only win required a three-run comeback in the bottom of the ninth against the struggling Jorge Julio. Intelligent fans can't say they didn't see this coming, and Cordero is going to have problems finding games to save as a result. If you own Cordero, the best-case scenario is that he pitches well anyway and is dealt to a better team in June or July.
It's early in the season, but several teams have already had big shakeups in their bullpens. The pre-season closers for the Astros, Marlins, and Royals are all currently out of jobs for a variety of reasons. Several other clubs have seen their shaky closers establish themselves as more reliable options, making these stoppers less risky investments. Constant reevaluation has become the norm in the world of the always-scrutinized closers, and in this week's column we'll analyze who has seen the biggest change in value.
All closers are rated in one of the following categories: Locked In, Secure, Shaky, In Danger, Filling-in, or DL.
Arizona Diamondbacks
Closer: Jose Valverde (Secure)
Key setup men: Brandon Lyon, Brandon Medders, Tony Pena
Valverde entered the year as one of the more promising closers around, but inconsistency and injuries had held him down before. Neither has been a problem in the early going, as Valverde has converted 4-of-5 saves in the early going. The only runs the right-hander has given up were in his blown save, and only one of those was earned. Valverde easily has top 20 closer potential, and his strong start gives his value a boost. I wouldn't recommend selling-high on this one, at least for now.
Atlanta Braves
Closer: Bob Wickman (Secure)
Key setup men: Rafael Soriano, Mike Gonzalez, Oscar Villareal
The 38-year-old Wickman has been as reliable as ever thus far, recording a win and three saves in four outings without allowing a run to score. He remains a quality option, albeit with more risk than some of the other 'secure' listings in this space.
Baltimore Orioles
Closer: Chris Ray (Secure)
Key setup men: Danys Baez, Chad Bradford, Jamie Walker
In what will undoubtedly be one of the year's most memorable moments, Ray served up a walk-off grand slam to Alex Rodriguez this past week. The right-hander was cruising the first two outs of that save, but came unraveled after almost hitting Derek Jeter and later walking the star shortstop. Things went down hill from there, with Ray hitting Bobby Abreu and then giving up the grand slam. On the plus side, Ray came back the very next day and recorded a perfect save against the Yankees. The lone poor outing shouldn't affect his value at all.
Boston Red Sox
Closer: Jonathan Papelbon (Locked In)
Key setup men: Joel Pineiro, Mike Timlin, Hideki Okajima
Although he's only pitched twice thus far, Papelbon has already reminded his owners just how good he is. In his second outing of the season, Papelbon entered a one-run game with the tying run at third and the go-ahead run on first with one out in the eighth inning. The 26-year-old struck out Michael Young and then got Mark Teixeira to pop out to end the rally. He followed that up with a perfect ninth, recording his second save of the season.
Chicago Cubs
Closer: Ryan Dempster (Secure)
Key setup men: Bob Howry, Kerry Wood (DL), Scott Eyre
It's been awhile since Dempster has looked this good. After struggling through most of the second half last year, the Cubs' closer has bounced back to an impressive start in 2007. Dempster has recorded two saves while striking out five and not allowing a hit in three innings thus far. He remains likely to be inconsistent over the course of a season and its still quite possible he'll lose the job at some point, but he's fine to use for now.
Chicago White Sox
Closer: Bobby Jenks (Secure)
Key setup men: Mike MacDougal, Matt Thornton, Nick Masset
Manager Ozzie Guillen's comments about potentially using Thornton to close with Jenks not throwing hard enough turned out to be bogus, and it's likely that Guillen was just trying to motivate his hefty closer. Jenks blew a one-run lead and took a loss on Monday, but he hasn't allowed a run in any of his other five appearances thus far. He remains a risky option over the long haul, but there's plenty of short-term job security here.
Cincinnati Reds
Closer: David Weathers (Shaky), Mike Stanton (Shaky)
Key setup men: Todd Coffey, Jon Coutlangus
The Reds have generated two save opportunities thus far, with both of them going to Weathers. He converted both saves by throwing scoreless innings of work. Weathers then took a loss after giving up a run in a tie game in the 11th inning against the Diamondbacks, but this was after he had thrown a scoreless 10th inning. He remains the favorite for saves, with Stanton figuring to vulture a fair number of the opportunities. It remains to be seen if Coutlangus would get any opportunities, as the club had alluded to previously.
Cleveland Indians
Closer: Joe Borowski (Secure)
Key setup men: Roberto Hernandez, Rafael Betancourt, Fernando Cabrera
After giving up two runs on Opening Day, Borowski has gone 2-for-2 in save opportunities. However, neither appearance has been all that pretty. In the first, he walked two batters and barely escaped without allowing any runs. In the second, he gave up a run and was later saved by Erick Aybar being caught stealing to end the game. It'll take more than a few sub par outings for Borowski to lose the job, so he remains secure for now.
Colorado Rockies
Closer: Brian Fuentes (Secure)
Key setup men: LaTroy Hawkins, Manny Corpas, Ramon Ramirez
Another veteran off to a slow start, Fuentes has struggled in each of his last two outings. He gave up two runs in the first, but managed to pick up a save anyway. In the second outing, Fuentes gave up one run in a non-save situation. Neither should affect his value much.
Detroit Tigers
Closer: Todd Jones (Secure)
Key setup men: Joel Zumaya, Fernando Rodney, Wilfredo Ledezma
No controversy to see here. Jones has thrown five scoreless innings thus far, notching saves in all four of his opportunities. Zumaya will have to wait his chance.
Florida Marlins
Closer: Henry Owens (Shaky), Jorge Julio (Shaky)
Key setup men: Taylor Tankersley (DL), Matt Lindstrom, Kevin Gregg
The Marlins haven't announced a change in the closer's role, but it's all but assumed that Julio is out of the job for now. Manager Fredi Gonzalez refused to commit to the veteran when asked about the situation, and Owens is the favorite to replace Julio after already being used in close and late situations this season. Julio could be given another chance to redeem himself and might get the job back eventually, so he can't be dropped yet.
In the meantime, Owens is worth picking up in all formats until this situation is a bit clearer. Given that Owens, Julio, and even Tankersley are candidates to close over the rest of the season, selling high on Owens might be a good idea after he notches a few saves. If not, utilizing this bullpen will require constant monitoring and associated transactions.
Houston Astros
Closer: Dan Wheeler (Secure)
Key setup men: Chad Qualls, Brad Lidge, Trevor Miller
Lidge was listed as being in danger when this report came out last week, and he was predictably booted from save situations shortly thereafter. Although he still has the stuff to dominate, Lidge has a lot to prove before he's able to reassume ninth inning duties. It's possible he'll return to the role later in the year, but if Wheeler is performing as well as he has in a setup role the past few seasons, there will be no reason to make the change.
Wheeler isn't off to the best start himself, squandering an eighth inning lead last week and then blowing his first second save opportunity after being anointed closer. Neither is of much long-term concern, and Wheeler has top 10 closer potential. If the Wheeler owner in your league isn't comfortable valuing the right-hander as a legitimate closer, take advantage and make a deal.
Kansas City Royals
Closer: Octavio Dotel (DL), David Riske (Filling-in)
Key setup men: Joel Peralta, Joakim Soria
Riske has received two save opportunities while filling in for Dotel, successfully converting the first and then blowing the second by allowing a three-run homer to Tiger catcher Ivan Rodriguez. Riske took the loss in that second outing. He'll act as closer until Dotel returns, although that date is somewhat up in the air now with Dotel's oblique still bothering him.
Los Angeles Angels
Closer: Francisco Rodriguez (Locked In)
Key setup men: Scot Shields, Justin Speier, Darren Oliver
It turned out that the substance on K-Rod's hat last week was resin, and the right-hander was supposedly cleared of any wrong-doing. It's not something that should affect his value, and Rodriguez has put it behind himself by successfully closing all four opportunities he's been given.
Los Angeles Dodgers
Closer: Takashi Saito (Secure)
Key setup men: Jonathan Broxton, Chad Billingsley, Rudy Seanez
Saito was a candidate to regress in 2007 after a superb 2006 campaign, but nobody has told him that. He's given up one run in 4 2/3 innings while striking out five and recording four saves. The longer he goes without big leaguers figuring out his fastball-slider combination the more confidence you can have in his future projections.
Milwaukee Brewers
Closer: Francisco Cordero (Secure)
Key setup men: Derrick Turnbow, Matt Wise, Carlos Villanueva
It was a slow start to the season for Cordero, who pitched only twice until Wednesday night. Then on Wednesday, Cordero closed out the remainder of the previous day's game in the early evening and then saved the second Brewers-Marlins contest of the day later that night.
Minnesota Twins
Closer: Joe Nathan (Locked In)
Key setup men: Juan Rincon, Jesse Crain, Pat Neshek
Nathan has been perfect thus far, throwing four scoreless innings and recording three saves. There are few surer bets in baseball for consistent excellence.
New York Mets
Closer: Billy Wagner (Locked In)
Key setup men: Aaron Heilman, Pedro Feliciano, Joe Smith, Ambiorix Burgos
A poor finish to the spring hasn't hurt Wagner, as he's thrown three scoreless innings and picked up a save thus far. Rookie Joe Smith is impressing in the early going, having thrown five scoreless through Wednesday's action. He could end the year second or third in line.
New York Yankees
Closer: Mariano Rivera (Locked In)
Key setup men: Kyle Farnsworth, Scott Proctor, Luis Vizcaino
Do we even need to have a Yankees' section when it comes to closers? There's nobody more predictably dominant than Rivera, and the job is his even if he were to blow ten straight saves. The future Hall of Famer hasn't recorded a save yet, but he does have a vulture win in three scoreless innings.
Oakland Athletics
Closer: Huston Street (Locked In)
Key setup men: Justin Duchscherer, Kiko Calero, Alan Embree
The season started well enough for Street, picking up two saves and a win entering Wednesday night. However, last night Street entered a tie game in the top of the ninth and promptly surrendered three runs on three walks and a pair of hits. It's nothing to be concerned with.
Philadelphia Phillies
Closer: Tom Gordon (Locked In)
Key setup men: Ryan Madson, Geoff Geary, Jon Lieber
Gordon has only pitched once since the last column, protecting a three-run lead against the Mets on Wednesday night to pick up his first save of the season. Although he blew a save in his second appearance of the year, he's looked fine thus far.
Pittsburgh Pirates
Closer: Salomon Torres (Secure)
Key setup men: Matt Capps, Damaso Marte, Jonah Bayliss,
It was a fast and productive start for Torres, who saved four games in four outings during the season's first week. However, the tides have turned quickly on Torres, who blew a two-run lead against the Cardinals on Tuesday and then suffered a loss after allowing one run to break a tie game on Wednesday. The poor recent outings won't change Torres' secure hold of the job.
San Diego Padres
Closer: Trevor Hoffman (Locked In)
Key setup men: Scott Linebrink, Cla Meredith, Heath Bell
Four appearances, no runs, two saves, and one win. That sounds about right for the all-time save leader.
San Francisco Giants
Closer: Armando Benitez (Secure)
Key setup men: Kevin Correia, Steve Kline, Jonathan Sanchez
Benitez gave up a two-run homer to Adrian Gonzalez on Tuesday, but the Giants had a three-run lead at the time and he was able to preserve the win despite the long ball. Benitez has walked two and given up four hits in 2 1/3 innings of work to date. It'd take quite a string of poor outings to get him removed from the closer's role given the rest of the club's options.
Seattle Mariners
Closer: J.J. Putz (Locked In)
Key setup men: Chris Reitsma, Julio Mateo, Brandon Morrow
Poor weather conditions have left the Mariners with just five games played thus far. Putz has pitched in two of those games, although neither was a save situation.
St. Louis Cardinals
Closer: Jason Isringhausen (Locked In)
Key setup men: Brad Thompson, Tyler Johnson, Russ Springer
There was some thought in the off-season that Isringhausen wouldn't be ready for Opening Day, but those fears have been put to rest through two weeks. The veteran right-hander has made four appearances in the early going, giving up one run and picking up three saves in the process.
Tampa Bay Devil Rays
Closer: Al Reyes (Secure)
Key setup men: Brian Stokes, Ruddy Lugo, Juan Salas
I'm changing Reyes to secure after a strong first two weeks, with the understanding that he could drop to shaky with a poor handful of outings. Reyes gets the promotion because he's looked strong in his first three appearances, collecting two saves and allowing just one baserunner. The right-hander has earned the right to be given a little slack given his strong performances to date and impressive track record. The rest of the bullpen remains worth monitoring closely, especially Juan Salas and Brian Stokes, but it's Reyes' job to lose now.
Texas Rangers
Closer: Eric Gagne (DL), Akinori Otsuka (Filling-in)
Key setup men: Joaquin Benoit, C.J. Wilson
The Rangers haven't needed him much yet, but Otsuka has done well by not allowing a run in any of this three appearances. However, Gagne is set to come off the disabled list on Friday, and manager Ron Washington has already stated that he'll be given closing duties right away. Those in deep leagues will want to hold on to Otsuka anyway, given that Gagne is no sure thing in terms of health or production.
Toronto Blue Jays
Closer: B.J. Ryan (Locked In)
Key setup men: Jason Frasor, Jeremy Accardo, Shaun Marcum
Ryan is 3-for-4 in save opportunities, with the lone blown save coming when Ryan gave up three runs on five hits against the Devil Rays last week. He's allowed just one baserunner outside of that appearance and remains a top 5 closer.
Washington Nationals
Closer: Chad Cordero (Locked In)
Key setup men: Jon Rauch, Ryan Wagner, Jesus Colome
The Nationals are off to a woeful 1-8 start, and their only win required a three-run comeback in the bottom of the ninth against the struggling Jorge Julio. Intelligent fans can't say they didn't see this coming, and Cordero is going to have problems finding games to save as a result. If you own Cordero, the best-case scenario is that he pitches well anyway and is dealt to a better team in June or July.
RedRaiders
Mr. +EV
XMadson is terrible and has been for two years.Madson will take over when Gordon's arm falls off.
Fla\/\/ed
Footballguy
I can't get all my predictions correct.XMadson is terrible and has been for two years.Madson will take over when Gordon's arm falls off.
