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The Closer Report: April 23, 2010

CLOSER NEWS:

SAVES:

Brian Wilson (3) Wilson finally recorded a save.  It was his first save since April 6, and he went out there with a vengeance.  Besides a simple single, Wilson struck out the side for his third save of the season.  His ERA remains at 0.00.

Jonathan Papelbon (4) - Paps had another tough outing.  He did get the save, but in the process looked wild walking two batters and giving up a hit.  To put a positive spin on the save, he did intentionally walk Wiggington and he struck out Lugo to end the game.  That is how expereinced closers do it.

Francisco Rodriguez (2) - Recorded his second save in as many days.  He is still lacking his trademark sharpness that we haven't sen in awhile.  He needed 22 pitches to close he game and gave up a hit and a walk, while striking out two. His WHIP rose to 1.27, but his ERA lowered to an impressive 1.04.

Kevin Gregg (5) - Gregg was needed for 1.1 innings, but got a clean save. He looked great giving up a hit and striking out two.

Matt Lindstrom (5) - Another 12 pitch save for Lindstrom.  No hits and a strikeout.  Lindstrom has clearly found his closer niche.

Briean Fuentes (2) - Fuentes was back in the closer role and frankly it was a shocker.  When I saw Fernando Rodney coming into the eighth inning I was thinking someone got screwed.  I did assume that since the Yankee lineup is loaded with lefties and switch hitters that maybe Scioscia went with his lefty.  Thames did pitch hit for Johnson and Fuentes turned Teixeira around.  Will see what he does next.

Chad Qualls (3) - Qualls had a hefty three run lead to work with and he didn't even need it.  Why?  He only needed one out.  It was 7-3 going into the ninth and after Heilman gave up a run, Qualls entered the game with two outs and a runner on second.  He dispatched of Polanco on five pitches.


BLOWN SAVES:

Neftali Feliz (1-0 BS1) - Feliz got rocked tonight and badly.  Well, maybe not that badly, but he gave up three hits, including a wacky shallow double to Johnny Damon.  He couldn't close the deal on Magglio Ordonez who with two outs got the big hit to tie the game at 4-4 and blow the game for Feliz.  He did manage to get the win, so it wasn't all bad.

APPEARANCES:

Carlos Marmol - Pitched 1.1 innings for some odd reason in a blowout.  Still, he struck out three out of the four batters he retured.

Jim Johnson - Gave up a hit in 1/3 of an inning against the Red Sox.

Rafeal Soriano - Got some work in against the Blue Jays.  Struck out two in an inning of work. His WHIP has gone down to 1.14 and his ERA is loking much better at 2.57.

The Closer Report: April 22, 2010

SAVES:

Andrew Bailey (2) - Bailey ruled the New York Yankees with a 12 pitch save.  He didn't record any strikeouts, but one hit.  His ERA  is still at 0.00 and he's healthy.

Francisco Cordero (6) - Cordero nailed his sixth save of the season.  He gave up a hit and a walk, but no runs. 

Franklin Morales (3) - Morales recorded his first save in 11 days.

Darren Oliver (1) - Looked good, recording two strikeouts.  He got the save because Frank Francisco and Neftali Feliz needed rest.

Francisco Rodriguez (1) - KROD finally recorded his first save of the season.  He pitched 1.2 perfect innings and struck out three batters. This was an excellent appearance for the stud closer.  His ERA and WHIP were lowered 1.17.

Jose Valverde (5) - I Watched an excited Valverde close out the Angels.  He was wild at first, walking Bobby Abreau.  After that he calmed down and got Tori Hunter to bang into a double play and then got Matsui to ground out to first to end the game.  In all it took ten pitches.  Great appearance for Valverde.


Appearances:

Leo Nunez - Struck out the side in a non-save situation.  He is looking outstanding!

The Closer Report: April 21, 2010

SAVES:

Matt Lindstrom (4) - Lindstrom threw a near perfect 12 pitch inning giving up a lone hit.  His WHIP (1.14) and ERA (3.86) are still a bit high, but both are coming down.

Mariano Rivera (6) - Rivera is absolutely unhittable.  He recorded his sixth straight save, but showed a chink in his armor.  He gave up a hit and needed 26 pitches to close out the game.  His season ERA is still 0.00.

Jose Valverde (4) - Valverde made quick work of Angel hitters needing only 10 pitches to get his fourth save.   He got one strikeout and lowered his WHIP to 1.00.

Joakim Soria (4) - SOria got back on track with his fourth save of the season beating the Blue Jays 4-3.  He had a quite 1-2-3 inning and struckout one closing out the game.

Matt Capps (7) - Capps recorded his league leading seventh save of the season and did it in wow fashion.  Capps struckout the side, raising his strikeout total from 5 to 8 in one appearnce.  He did give up a hit and a walk, but an overall very impressive outing for Capps.

BLOWN SAVE:

Brian Fuentes (BS1) - Fuentes made his first appearance since coming off the DL and he entered the game in the eighth inning as expected and blew the lead.  Before his work was done, he gave up two runs on two hits and two walks.  The big blast was a solo homerun to Miguel Cabrera.  He also took the loss 4-3.

APPEARANCES:

Brain Wilson - Pitched a quite inning in a losing cause.  He only threw 10 pitches, so he should be fine for tomorrow.

Jonathan Papelbon - Pitched a strong two innings in a 7-7 game with Texas.  He gave up one hit and struckout one.  There is no chance he will pitch tomorrow.  Since Bard also went two innings, I'm not sure who will get the call to close if the Red Sox lead going into the ninth inning.

Carlos Marmol - Worked one inning in a 9-3 blow out.  Walked one and struck out one. 

Neftali Feliz - Another impressive outing for Feliz.  He pitched two innings for the Rangers in an extra inning game.  He threw 23 pitches and struck out three batters, while giving up no hits or walks.  His WHIP is now at a microscopic 0.75.

The Closer Report: April 20, 2010

SAVES:

Kevin Gregg (5) - Gregg mowed down the Royals on 13 pitches surrendering a hit and recording a strikeout.  Gregg has a firm hold on the job and Frasor is not a threat.  In fact, during spring training I reported that the Blue Jays are best served with Frasor as the setup man and Downs as the lefty specialist.  That is the way it is setup now.

Francisco Cordero (5) - Cordero continues his hot start, saving his fifth game in a row and did it with two strikeouts. I have to admit Cordero is unstoppable right now.

David Aardsma (6) - Looked very sharp against the Orioles.  The only smudge on the save was a bloop single by Matt Weiters.  14 pitches and a strikeout.

Matt Lindstrom (3) - Got his thrid save, but got roughed up in the process.  He gave up two hits and a wild pitch on way to his third save of the season.  Needed 24 pitches to close the game out, so expect Lyon to close out a possible save tomorrow.

Bobby Jenks (3) - Had a relatively good outing.  19 pitches, a hit, and a strikeout.

Chad Qualls (2) - Qualls came through with a great save tonight.  Gave up no hits, one ground ball and two strikeouts.  Its rare, but he does have some good outings.

Fernanado Rodney (5) - Rodney is insane right now.  Here are some numbers to digest.  He has five saves in the past seven days.  In those five innings pitched, no hits, one walk and four strikeouts. His ERA in that period, ZERO.  I don't think Fuentes is taking the job back anytime soon.

BLOWN SAVES

Ryan Madson (BS 1)- Get off the Madson Express.  He got hammered.  He gave up three runs on two home runs.  His season WHIP is now at 1.71 and his ERA is just lost at 7.71.  I'm beginning to think it's the curse of the Phillies closer.  In Madson's defense, it was his first blown save of the season.

APPEARANCES:

Jonathan Papelbon (2-0) - Got the win pitching the ninth inning of a 6-6 game.  He threw allot of pitches (20) and walked a batter in the effort.  He also recorded a strikeout.

Francisco Rodriguez - Still no saves, but got a wasted inning of work tonight.  He needed a whooping 26 pitches to end the game.  He walked two and struck out a pair as well.

Billy Wagner (1-0) - pitched a perfect 10th inning for his first win of the season.  He also added a strikeout.

Heath Bell (4) - After blowing a save yesterday, Bell came through with his fourth save of the season tonight.  He did make it intersting by giving up a hit and walk, but after 19 pitches the game was over.

Franklin Morales - Pitched with a 6-run lead and struck out two and walked one.

 Listen to Todd "The True Guru" Farino breakdown all the closer activity three times a week on Blog Talk Radio. Every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 11pm PST. www.blogtalkradio.com/the-closer-report  or download the podcast on ITunes!

Brian Fuentes Expected to return Wednesday; Rodney Out?

Great news for all you Brian Fuentes owners.  He is expected to return to the Angels when he is elgible to come on the DL on Wednesday April 21.  Since Fuentes has been on the DL, former closr Fernando Rodney has taken over the role and has been perfect converting three saves in three chances.  When asked what he would do upon Fuentes's return, “Nothing’s changed,” Angels manager Mike Scioscia said. “As we talked about from the beginning of the year, there are going to be games Fernando gets a chance to save even if Brian is active. That depth in the back end of our bullpen is important.”

Rodney has been perfect retiring all nine batters he has faced.  I would be hard to believe that come Wednesday and the Angels face a save situation that Scioscia doesn't role out Rodney.  What the Angels could do is platoon the two closers and use them depending on the batters they will face.  For Fuentes, he'll get the lefties.  For Rodney, the 9th innings loaded with righties.

Listen to Todd "The True Guru" Farino breakdown all the closer activity three times a week on Blog Talk Radio. Every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 11pm PST. www.blogtalkradio.com/the-closer-report or download the podcast on ITunes!

First Closer Power Rankings Released April 18, 2010

Check out the latest closer power rankings here:
http://www.thecloserreport.com/rankings/index.html

Listen to Todd "The True Guru" Farino breakdown all the closer activity three times a week on Blog Talk Radio. Every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 11pm PST. www.blogtalkradio.com/the-closer-report or download the podcast on ITunes!

The Closer Report: April 16, 2010 5 Saves, 1 Blown Save

SAVES:
Matt Capps (5) - Capps is on fire.  Needed only two outs and seven pitches to record his fifth save of the season.  He even added in a strikeout.

Andrew Bailey (1) - Bailey finally recorded a save and looked great doing it.  He needed only 13 pitches and gave up a harmless hit disposing fo the Orioles.

Ryan Franklin (4) - Franklin pitched to contact tonight and was hammered, but held on for the save.  He gave up two runs on three hits and ballooned his season ERA to 7.20.

Ryan Madson (3) - Looke sharp recording the last two outs of tonight's game sealing a 8-6 win.  He needed only 6 pitches and gave up a hit.

Fernando Rodney (2) - Pitched another quick perfect inning and notched his second save in as many days.

BLOWN SAVES:
Octavio Dotel (1-0, BS 1) - Dotel had a rough night, but ended up with the win.  He gave up a triple to Chris Dickerson and later let him score on a flyball that was sandwiched between two strikeouts.  His season ERA now sits at 5.40 with the lone blown save.

APPEARANCES:

Jonathan Papelbon - Entered a 1-1 game and pitched a near perfect inning in pouring rain.  He did walk one, but also struck out BJ Upton.  The game was called shortly after that, so Papelbon can still win the game when it's continued tomorrow.

Heath Bell (1-0) - Bell notched a win in a game where he was just getting some work.  He entered the game in the ninth inning down 3-2 and the Padres pulled a come back to win 6-3.  Bell pitched a perfect inning, but no strikeouts.

Bobby Jenks - Pitched a inning and gave up a hit and a strikeout.

Carlos Marmol - Pitched a inning in a non-save situation. Looked sharp, striking out two and giving up a hit.  His season ERA is still a flat 0.00 and his WHIP 0.56.

Listen to Todd "The True Guru" Farino breakdown all the closer activity three times a week on Blog Talk Radio. Every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 11pm PST. www.blogtalkradio.com/the-closer-report or download the podcast on ITunes!

The Closer Report: April 15, 2010 3 Saves, 1 Blown Save

SAVES:
Mariano Rivera (4) - Chalk up another easy save for Rivera.  He entered the 6-2 game with two outs in the ninth inning and two runners on.  He got his batter and recorded his fourth save of the season on four pitches.

Matt Capps (4) - Capps is on fire.  He recorded his fourth save of the season for the Nationals.  It wasn't easy.  He was needed for 1.2 innings and gave up a run on three hits, including a home run to Shane Victorino.  While he notched a strikeout and the save, Capps has been scary at best.  Keep your fingers crossed.

Trevor Hoffman (3) - Hoffman was roughed up again, but notched the save.  He gave up a run on two hits and his ERA has skyrocketed to 12.60 to start the season. 

BLOWN SAVES:

Chad Qualls (BS 1) - Qualls just doesn't have the stuff to close.  He pitched well, but gave up three hits (one should have been an error on S. Drew) and gave up two runs. He threw 26 pitches and gave up two runs on three hits and two walks.  It's easy to say that Qualls will not close tomorrow if needed.


APPEARANCES:
Billy Wagner - Looked outstanding again, striking out two on 13 pitches (9 strikes).

Matt Lindstrom - Came into the game with a 5-1 lead and disposed of the Cardinals on 12 pitches and recorded a strikeout.

Ryan Madson - Entered the game in a losing situation just to get work and got touched up for two runs on two hits and a walk.

Francisco Rodriguez - Still no saves, but notched two more strikeouts while getting some work.

Jonathan Broxton (1-0) - Entered the game in the 10th inning and had an easy 1-2-3 inning with a strikeout.

Listen to Todd "The True Guru" Farino breakdown all the closer activity three times a week on Blog Talk Radio. Every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 11pm PST. www.blogtalkradio.com/the-closer-report or download the podcast on ITunes!

Feliz To Close In Texas

Texas Rangers - Neftali Feliz

Feliz has been named the Rangers' closer after Frank Francisco blew 2 consecutive saves in the opening week, allowing 3 runs in each outing.
Manager Ron Washington, "Feliz is going to get the chance to get those last three outs in the ninth."

Feliz has allowed 1 run in 3 appearances this year with 2 holds and 5 K's in 2+ IP. The 21-year-old hard thrower has the stuff to emerge as a dominant closer and not just a temporary replacement.

Sin City Scout

Jim Johnson To Get Save Chances

Baltimore Orioles - Jim Johnson

Mike Gonzalez has been placed on the DL with a shoulder injury, which could explain his 2 blown saves in the opening week of the season.

Johnson finished 2009 as the O's closer with 9 second half saves. The
26-year-old right hander has a 1.00 WHIP in 3 IP with 3 K in 4 games this year.

Johnson isn't exactly standard closer material, but is solid.  He is not likely to keep the job for the remainder of the season and should only be picked up id you are in serious need of saves.

Sin City Scout

Fuentes Hits DL

Los Angeles Angels - Fernando Rodney

Brian Fuentes has been placed on the DL with a minor back injury that he could return from later this month. Rodney pitched a perfect 9th inning for his 1st save of the season in a 5-3 final yesterday.

Rodney saved 37 games in 38 chances last year with the Tigers. The hard throwing right hander has a 1.25 WHIP in 4 IP with 2 K this season.

It is quite possible Rodney will not lose the job if he does well, he is worth picking up in all formats.

Sin City Scout

Gregg Closing in Toronto

Toronto Blue Jays - Kevin Gregg

Gregg was officially named the Blue Jays' closer Wednesday by manager Cito Gaston; "We're just going to reverse the roles a little bit until Jason Frasor can get back to where we think he should be."

Gregg has a 0.23 WHIP in 4+ IP with 6 K and is 3 for 3 in save chances to open the season.

He has recorded 52 saves in the last two seasons, but has never been impressive and he has lost his job each time.  He might be worth a ride, but he is likely to lose his job at some point and either Jason Frasor or Scott Downs will take over.

Sin City Scout

The Closer Report: April 14, 2010 8 Saves, 1 Blown Save

NEWS:

Brian Fuentes was placed on the DL by the Angels and Fernando Rodney will take over as closer until Fuentes is able to return.  For Fuentes, it's another back issue and that could last up to six weeks.  With backs, you just don't know.

SAVES:

Joakim Soria (2) - Soria entered the game with two outs in the eighth inning and a runner on.  He promptly walked Scott Sizemore, but struck out Kelly to end the eighth.  He then had a quite ninth inning, recording another strikeout  and needing 17 total pitches.  He looked incredibly sharp in the ninth inning.

Carlos Marmol (3) - Pitched the perfect inning, striking out the side on 15 pitches.  I expect more innings like this from Marmol.

David Aardsma (4) - Aardsma recorded his AL leading fourth save tonight beating the Athletics 4-2.  He pitched a perfect inning and recorded a strikeout on 12 pitches.

Ryan Franklin (3) - Closed out the Astros in quick and easy 1-2-3 fashion.  He needed only 6 pitches for the save.  That is Franklin at his best, pitching to contact.

Neftali Feliz (2) Feliz got his second save in as many days.  He was tested in the eighth inning, being brought in with runners on first and second and two outs.  He answered the call by getting Cabrera to fly out to deep center.  He added a walk and a strikeout in the ninth inning. 

Jonathan Papelbon (3) - Paps nailed his third save of the season, but still doesn't look right.  He needed 21 pitches to dispose of the Twins and was all over the place.  He finished with two walks and no strikeouts.

Burke Badenhop (1) - Closed out the game for the Marlins and looked sharp.  The 26-year old recorded his first major league save logging two innings, striking out three.  I have no reason to believe that this move was to give the beat up Marlin bullpen a rest.  Nunez had pitched the three days before, so it's no threat to his job.

Fernando Rodney (1) - On the day that he got the job, Rodney saved his first game.  He looked like vintage Rodney, needing nine pitches to end the Yankees day.

BLOWN SAVE:

Franklin Morales (BS1) - Blew a big save for the Rockies, giving up an unearned run on a sacrifice fly.  You can't blame it completely on Morales and he actually pitched well.  However, the bottom-line stat is a blown save.

APPEARANCES:
Billy Wagner - Pitched a long ninth inning, walking two and striking out a pair in a non-save situation.

Listen to Todd "The True Guru" Farino breakdown all the closer activity three times a week on Blog Talk Radio. Every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 11pm PST. www.blogtalkradio.com/the-closer-report or download the podcast on ITunes!

Brian Fuentes on the DL, Rodney in as closer

It happens as least once a season, Brian Fuentes's back issues flaring up.  The Angels placed him on the DL today and wasting no time Fernando Rodney came in and recorded his first save of the season. 

Fuentes will get the job back, but there is no telling how long he will be out, so get Rodney.  If you own Fuentes and you can't get Rodney, I'd trade for him.  He's a quality closer and will see ample opportunities.  He could even keep the job depending on how back Fuentes's back is.

Listen to Todd "The True Guru" Farino breakdown all the closer activity three times a week on Blog Talk Radio. Every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 11pm PST. www.blogtalkradio.com/the-closer-report or download the podcast on ITunes!

The Closer Report: April 13, 2010 7 Saves

SAVES:
Mariano Rivera (3) - Came in for a short .2 inning save and nailed it over the Angels, striking out one.  Rivera is already in mid-season form and not showing his age at all.  For all of you that are expecting Rivera to falter and regress in 2010, it won't happen.  I feel he's due to regress a bit next year, but even that is a solid closer.

Jose Valverde (2) - Valverde mowed down the Royals 1-2-3 in 12 pitches and was fired up as usual completing the comeback for the Tigers.  So far so good for Valverde.

Rafael Soriano (2) - Got another ugly save.  Something hasn't been right with Soriano so far, but he did get the save and a strikeout.  His one blip was a solo home run to Ty Wiggington.

Kevin Gregg (3) - The Blue Jays won their 6th straight game and their bullpen has been taxes.  Everything out of Toronot is that Frasor is just getting rest after making five appearances already in this early season.  Gregg looked fantastic, facing the minimum number of batters and recording two strike outs.

David Aardsma (3) - Had some control issues tonight, but overwhelmed the A's onward to his third save of the season.  The two walks were a small blip on an otherwise nice night.

Francisco Cordero (4) - Second save in 2 days.  He made quick work of the Marlins, disposing of them on 11 pitches, striking out two.  Cordero has looked nothing less then superb to start the 2010 season.

Octavio Dotel (2) - Dotel got ripped for a 2-run home run from none other then Eugenio Velez, but luckily had a three run lead.  His season WHIP is still low at 1.00, but his ERA balloned to 4.50 in the short season.

Listen to Todd "The True Guru" Farino breakdown all the closer activity three times a week on Blog Talk Radio. Every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 11pm PST. www.blogtalkradio.com/the-closer-report  or download the podcast on ITunes!

The Closer Report: April 12, 2010 5 Saves, 1 Blown Save

Jon Rauch (5) -  Had a 1-2-3 inning against the Red Sox who lacked any byte the entire day for the opening of Target Field.

Neftali Feliz (1) -  Looked impressive topping 100 MPH nailing his first save of the season for the Rangers.  He did record one strikeout.

Francisco Cordero (3) - A very quick 15-pitch inning for Cordero.  SO far he is looking very sharp.

Bobby Jenks (2) -  Walked two and struck out 1 while recording his second save of the season.

Ryan Madson (2) - A perfect inning and a strikeout for the young Phillies closer.  So far so good for Madson and is non-believers.

BLOWN SAVE:
Jason Frasor (BS2) - Blew his second save in this early season.  He gave up a solo home run to Mark Teahan in the Blue Jay loss.  So far things are not looking good for Frasor.  The only thing working for him is Cito Gaston has no one else.

APPEARANCES:
Rafael Soriano - Struck out two and walked one against the Orioles in a non-save situation.

Chris Perez - Didn't record an out after facing two batters in the ninth inning of a tie game.  Neither runner scored.

Leo Nunez - One inning and one strikeout.

Andrew Bailey - Another clean inning for Bailey, but still no saves.  He did knock down a strikeout.

Carlos Marmol - Pitched a solid inning in a non-save situation.  He did record a strikeout, but also a walk.

Listen to Todd "The True Guru" Farino breakdown all the closer activity three times a week on Blog Talk Radio. Every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 11pm PST. www.blogtalkradio.com/the-closer-report or download the podcast on ITunes!

The Closer Report: April 8th, 2010 7 Saves, 1 Blown Save

There was another heavy day of closers.  Most of the appearances were uneventful, but there were a few surprises.

SAVES:
Jason Frasor (2) - Frasor locked down his second save in as many days.  Again he looked in mod-season form and has made that first terrible appearance a thing of the past.  He struck out two and walked one on 18 pitches.

Matt Capps (1) - He got hit hard, but his sinker was sharp.  Recorded his first save of the season, giving up one hit and intentionally walking Ryan Howard.  At least he is smart, but that's not closer mentality.

Carlos Marmol (1) - Marmol got his first save and looked very good.  He struck out two while giving up a hit and a walk.  He did work 1.1 innings and your arm tends to stiffen up after waiting an inning, so the hit and walk don't bother me as much.

Leo Nunez - (1) - After a brutal outing, Nunez came out and recorded a perfect save.  He even struck out Gary Matthew Jr on a nasty breaking ball.  It wasn't without some drama.  Fernando Tatis hita deep fly ball on Nunez's first pitch that went to the wall.

Mike Gonzalez (1) - Recorded his first save, but loaded the bases on two walks and a hit before he got the final out.  This will likely be what to expect from Gonzalez all year.  Keep an eye on Jim Johnson.  If things get bad, Johnson will replace Gonzo.

Chris Perez (2) - Recorded his second save in as many days.  He looked very good and his closer poise.  He needed 14 pitches to dispose of the White Sox.  He did not record a strikeout.


BLOWN SAVES:
Frank Francisco (BS 1) - Francisco looked terrible tonight.  In his second appearance of the season he gave up three runs on four hits including a solo home run to

APPEARANCES: 
Francisco Cordero (1-0) - Cordero made his second appearance of the season and looked sharp.  He entered a tie game and struck out two in a perfect inning of work.  He ended up with a win.

Jonathan Broxton - We finally got to see Broxton in 2010.  He gave up a walk and recorded a strikeout in a non-save situation.

Jose Valverde - Pitched a perfect inning with one strikeout.

Andrew Bailey - Made his third appearance in of the season.  .2 innings with a walk and a hit.  He is not looking in form yet, but is at least pitching.

Bobby Jenks - Let's face facts.  Jenks was a bit wild today and got some help from the umpire.  Overall, a perfect inning on 16 pitches and two strikeouts.


Listen to Todd "The True Guru" Farino breakdown all the closer activity three times a week on Blog Talk Radio. Every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 11pm PST. www.blogtalkradio.com/the-closer-report or download the podcast on ITunes!

The Closer Report: April 7, 2010 10 Saves, 3 Blown Saves

The closers came out today and really blew it big in several appearances.  Even with that, several closers had some strong performances and are off to a great start;

SAVES:

Mariano Rivera (2) - Recorded his second save in as many days against the Red Sox.

Chris Perez (1) - Perez recorded his first save of the season without giving up a hit.  He did struggle with control, walking one and needing 19 pitches to get the save.  You still have to feel good about your young fantasy closer.

Trevor Hoffman (2) - The Amazing Hoffman did it again.  Pitched a perfect inning with a strikeout.  Much better then his first outing against the Rockies.

Rafael Soriano (1) - Soriano recorded an ugly save, but it was a save.  He gave up a run on two hits and has yet to record a strikeout, which is not good for Soriano owners.

Billy Wagner (1) - Top sleeper Billy Wagner looked awesome getting his first save of the season.  He struck out the side and stranded a hit.

Ryan Franklin (1) - Got an easy one hit near perfect save. Didn't get any strikeouts and pitched 100% to contact.

Jon Rauch (2) - Let the real Jon Rauch show himself.  Last night he was outstanding.  Tonight, not so outstanding.  While he still
recorded the save, Rauch was hammered for a run on two hits.  He also didn't record a strikeout.  Rauch needs to hit his spots to be good and tonight he wasn't.  In fact, he was lucky to get three ground ball outs and not give up more runs.  Matt Guerrier looked very sharp in the 8th inning.

Chad Qualls (1) - Looked much better nailing the save on nine pitches.  Gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout.

Jason Frasor (1) - Frasor came back strong today recording his first save and looked just as good as he did on opening day, but today the Rangers weren't lucky.  He struck out two with one hit.

Ryan Madison (1) - Pitched 1.1 innings to get the save and looked outstanding.  Overall, two hits and two strikeouts.

BLOWN SAVE:
Joakim Soria (BS 1) - Soria was just unlucky tonight.  He gave up a game tying home run to Miguel Cabrera.  This is another one of those dust off appearances.  On a good note, he did strikeout the side.

Leo Nunez (BS 1) - Blew his first save opportunity of the season.  It wasn't really fair, but Nunez lacked control all together.  He entered the game with the bases loaded and walked Fernando Tatis and Gary Matthews Jr.

Jose Valverde (BS 1, 0-1) - Blew a big 13th inning save for the Tigers and looked absolutely awful.  After giving up a home run to Alberto Callaspo, yes Callaspo he then allowed to more hits and loss the game.  It didn't take long for the Royals to ruin Valverde's day as he only needed 10 pitched to give up the three hits.


APPEARANCES:

Jonathan Papelbon (0-1) - Entered a 1-1 game and it ended 3-1.  He barely threw a pitch before he gave up a solo blast to Curtis Granderson and then he followed up with two straight walks
before being relieved. I have a strong feeling that something is wrong with Papelbon, but it's likely just dusting off.  He missed his spots all night and his control was awful, obviously.

Francisco Rodriguez - Pitched one inning in a tie game.  Gave up two hits and struck out two.  Still no saves for KROD.

Bobby Jenks - Looked terrible in his first appearance of the season.  Needed 28 pitches to clear the ninth inning and gave up a run on two walks and a hit. Matt Thornton pitched the inning before him and looked
magnificent needing 11 pitches and striking out one.



Listen to Todd "The True Guru" Farino breakdown all the closer activity three times a week on Blog Talk Radio. Every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 11pm PST. www.blogtalkradio.com/the-closer-report or download the podcast on ITunes!

The Closer Report: April 5, 2010 - 4 Saves, 1 Win, 12 Appearances

By Todd Farino, http://www.thecloserreport.com/

Baseball is here and the closers are coming out to play.  Here is the report from April 5, 2010. 

Note: since there are days off early in the season we are seeing lots of closers just getting work in, but not coming in for a save opprotunity.

SAVES:

Franklin Morales (1)- Pitching for the injured Huston Street, Morales looked good, but still got roughed up my the Brewers. He opened up the ninth a bit nervous and hit Rickie Weeks. He then gave up a double to Carlos Gomez, but settled done after that getting the next three batters out on hard line drives. Morales looked good, but he was hit hard. Let's hope he can improve on that and rack up the strikeouts.

Brian Wilson (1) - Wilson entered the game with one out in the ninth after Brandon Medders gave up a couple of runs.  Wilson looked very sharp getting out both batters he faced, striking out Manzella.  In all, he needed seven pitches to end the game.

David Aardsma (1) - Aardsma got a save thanks to the Kevin Kouzmanoff.  Aardsma shaked off a shakey spring to mow down three batters, striking out two.  His command owas a little off, but his fastball was shapr and looked much better than it did just a week ago.

Brian Fuentes (1) - Fuentes started off strong with a 1-2-3 perfect inning save.  He struck out one on 10 pitches.  He was setup nicely by Fernando Rodney and her looked in mid-season form already.

BLOWN SAVES:

Jason Frasor (1, 0-1) - Frasor blew his first save of the season and looked awful against a tough Texas lineup. Frasor was hit hard, giving up 2 doubles and a game winning long single to Saltalamacchia. The line isn't pretty, .1 IP, 2ER, 4H, 1 IBB, 1K. Frasor's pitches looked week. His velocity wasn't there and his breaking ball was flat. He should be fine and get better with time.

CLOSER WINS

Frank Francisco (1-0) - Francisco pitched a near perfect ninth and ended up with the win for Texas. On 17 pitches he struck out two and gave up one hit.

APPEARANCES

Ryan Franklin - Here is the Ryan Franklin I know.  Granted it's his first appearance of the season and the score was 11-4 when he came in, he still didn't pitch well.  His pitches were flat and very hittable.  He got lucky bad swings form Gnomes and Cabrera for outs, but gave up three hits to
Dickerson, Votto, and Phillips.  The end result was 2 runs and no strikeouts in a wasted appearance for the Cardinals closer.

Andrew Bailey - Bailey looked healthy, but he wasn't his sharpest.  He got screwed on an error by Kevin Kouzmanoff and them gave up a 2-1 base hit to Casey Kotchman that scored two unearned runs.  Regardless of the outcome, Bailey owners can let out a sigh of relief that their closer is alright.  Brad Ziegler took the loss.

Francisco Rodriguez - Pitched a perfect and quiet ninth inning for the Mets.  He showed excellent command, only needing 14 pitches to take out the Marlins.

Octavio Dotel - Faced three batters, striking out one.  He only needed 10 pitches to end the game and looked outstanding.

Billy Wagner - Wagner made his first appearance as a Brave and looked like the Wagner of old.  He struck out two on 11 pitches.  He faced the minimum three batters.

Jose Valverde - Valverde came into the ninth inning with a 4-run lead and he was pumped up as only Valverde can be.  He wasn't his sharpest as he needed 24 pitches to close out the game.  He did have to work around a walk and a error, but in the end a strong inning.  He recorded one strikeout.

SIDE NOTES:

Matt Thornton - Thornton looked great for the White Sox pitching a perfect ninth.  He struck out two and needed 10 pitches, throwing all strikes.  He's my odds on favorite to get the job if Jenks fails to hold onto it.

Listen to Todd "The True Guru" Farino breakdown all the closer activity three times a week on Blog Talk Radio. Every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 11pm PST. www.blogtalkradio.com/the-closer-report  or download the podcast on ITunes!

Jonathan Papelbon closes out the first save of the season

As expected and as I predicted (the Red Sox fan), Jonathan Papelbon recorded the first save of 2010.  He faced four batters and looked great giving up only a hard single to Jorge Posada. 

The key observation I noticed about Papelbon's first appearance of the season, he threw three splitters.  Last season he threw splitters rarely (9.3% according to fangraphs.com).  Tonight he threw it far more and that was part of the plan coming into 2010.  He did record the final out  on the splitter with a ground ball from Curtis Granderson.

Great start for Papelbon and throwing an effective splitter will make Papelbon that much better. Tonight, all his splitters looked great.

Spring Training Updates: Closers

Jon Rauch - Twins
He has won the closing job in Minnesota. He has some closing experience and pitched well as a setup pitcher for the Twins in 2009. he should settle in and be a solid closer.

Jason Frasor - Blue Jays
He has beat out Kevin Gregg for the closing job in Toronto.  He has been involved in trade rumors, so both Gregg and Scott Downs should still be in the race if something happens.

Heath Bell - Padres
No news here except there is a good chance that Bell will be traded at some point and that makes setup pitcher, Mike Adams, a player of fantasy interest.

Ryan Madson - Phillies
Brad Lidge is injured and Madson will get first crack at the closing job.  He wasn't very good in this role in 2009, so proceed with cation.  Danys Baez will get a shot if Madson fails.

Chris Perez - Indians
Kerry Wood is on the DL again. If Perez pitches well he will keep the job.

Huston Street - Rockies
He will start the season on the DL and miss at least a month.  Franklin Morales will get save chances until Street returns. Manuel Corpas could be in the mix if Morales fails.

Analysis: Rauch named closer in Minnesota

As expected, Ron Gardenhire named a closer vefore the season started.  We've known that Gardenhire was not a fan of the "committee" approach.   He has always defined roles and wanted to go into the season with that established.  

Rauch looked good once he came to the Twins last year going 5-1 with a 1.72 ERA.  Rauch's biggest problem is consistency and his stuff.  He will come out in the ninth throwing 91-92 MPH fastball and will mix in a slider and curveball.  His weakest pitch is a changeup, which he only throws about 8% of the time and the velocity of 85 MPH isn't that much slower than his fastball.  

Ruach will put guys on base and rely on double plays, striekouts and defense to bail him out.  He does not have the stuff to get himself out of trouble.  

Keep a tight eye on Matt Guerrier.  He still figures to get into the mix for saves and if Rauch fails at all, expect Gardenhire to make changes quickly. Even Jose Mijares has a chance to get a save or two.

It's Official: Jason Frasor is closing for the Blue Jays

He's been on the top of my list for the closer in Toronto and Cito Gaston made it official as Frasor not only outpitched both Kevin Gregg and Scott Downs this spring, but he held the job he had at the end of last season.  If you look at Frasor's complete spring stats it doesn't really tell the whole story.  He has a 6.75 ERA, but if you remove 1/3 of an inning his ERA over the other five innings pitched at a 0.00 ERA.  His two strikeouts were a bit dissappointing, but expected.

The Blue Jays won't provide Frasor with an enormous amount of saves, especially in the A.L. East.  He will give you around 25 saves and 8-9 K/9 rate.  Expect a regression from his ERA and WHIP numbers last year, but not much.  Frasor has come into his own and the Frasor we saw last year is here to stay.

You can easily draft him in rounds 16-21.  Take him anywhere in that group and you have yourself a solid #3 closer.

Andrew Bailey looks healthy against Seattle today

Andrew Bailey looked strong, but more importantly healthy today.  He was scheduled to pitch today as part of his rehab to get him ready for opening day.  The Rookie of the Year closer has been suffering from elbow soreness and has been shutdown for the past two weeks. 

He entered the game against the Seattle Mariners in the 9th inning with a tie score.  Bailey faced four batters, striking out one and giving up a home run to Franklin Guiterrez.  Clearly Bailey was throwing nearly all fastballs, testing his velecity and control.  After the game, “I was just trying to establish my fastball and get my feel back on the mound,” Bailey said. “That’s my fifth appearance and we can go from that. There’s still some time to get used to game action again, but definitely I’ll be ready for opening day.”

I see nothing wrong with Andrew Bailey from this point.  I've drafted him in a couple of leagues including my last draft on Saturday.  I have 100% confidence that Bailey will be fine and ready to pitch when called upon.

Top 10 Closer Stories Of Spring Training 2010

So far it's been an active spring for closers and injuries.  Several jobs are still undecided and some top closers are out and will not be ready for the start of the season.  Here are the top ten closer stories this spring.

1.  Twins Closer - At this point the Twins are claiming they will go with a closer by committee by using anyone of their late inning relievers like Matt Guerrier, Jon Rauch, Jesse Crain, etc...  I'm not buying it.  Gardenhire has never been that kind of manager.  Going back to Eddie Guardado, he has preferred to go to one guy in the ninth inning and stick with him.  Knowing that, I'd consider the first two weeks an interviewing process for Jon Rauch and Matt Guerrier.  Jesse Crain is completely out coming back from arm surgery and Jose Mirares is a bit young, though he could be a dark horse closer.  He hasn't proved much this spring either. 
If Rauch or Guerrier come out of the gate dominant then that is who will get the job.  My money is on Matt Guerrier.  Rauch is a far better setup man and Gardenhire has far more confidence in his 31-year old pitcher who has been with the Twins since Nathan took over as the closer (2004).  Setting up his bullpen, Gardenhire would prefer Crain in the seventh, Rauch and Pat Neshek in the 8th, Guerrier in the ninth, and Mirares as his left-handed specialist.  My money is on and has been on Matt Guerrier even with Rauch getting the first look.
2.  Colorado Rockies - Huston Street will start the season on the DL with inflammation in his elbow.  It's no big deal, but it will sideline him till at least late April.  Franklin Morales will take over the duties to start the season.  He took care of the job last season while Street was hurt and he should have no problem in 2010.  He is a hard throwing lefty with some good movement and forces strikeouts or ground balls most of the time.

 3. Philadelphia Phillies - Brad Lidge is still recovering from elbow and knee surgery in the off-season. He has only thrown one inning this season and looked ok, but it was against minor leaguers. Ryan Madson will be the Phillies opening day closer and should be the closer for at least two weeks. However, if Lidge doesn't show significant progress they could ease him back into the role delaying him till May or mid-May. Now the konudrum. What if Madson has been lights out closing? Does Charlie Manuel remove him or keep him in the role? Do you allow your recently surgically repaired closer with confidence issues back into the role or your closer of the future who is doing a great job? We will see...

4.  Cleveland Indians - With Kerry Wood out 6-8 weeks with back issues, Chris Perez with take over the closer role.  Not only will he close for at least 6 weeks, but if he is dominant he won't give the job back.  Wood is getting old and in the last year of a two year deal.  The Indians traded for Perez for this exact reason, so expect Chris Perez to be the closer all season.  Perez is coming off a great spring with a 1.00 ERA in 9 innings and logged 10 strikeouts.

5.  Oakland Athletics - Andrew Bailey was shut down for a week with a minor case of tennis elbow.  Since then he has done some long toss and had a successful bullpen session.  He should pitch Monday to test the elbow and if all goes well he will be ready to start the season.  If not, expect Brad Ziegler to open the season for a week or so as the A's closer.

6.  San Francisco Giants - Brian Wilson signed a two year extension today for a total of $15 million and he's locked up through 2012.  That should stop any worries or rumors that Wilson could be trade bait at the trade deadline this season.

7.  Chicago Cubs - Let me be the first to say, what is all the worrying about Marmol?  Sure he loses control once and awhile, but overall he is an outstanding pitcher with some of the best stuff amongst closers.  His spring ERA was 5.00, but if you remove the one three-run appearance he's looking at a ERA below 2.00.  He also recorded 16 strikeouts in nine innings, but the 5 walks are a cause for concern.  However, minor concern.

8.  Houston Astros - In the off-season, the Astros traded for Matt Lindstrom and signed Brandon Lyon.  Lyon has been shelved most of spring training with a cyst and Matt Lindstrom has been lights out with a 0.00 ERA in 7.2 innings and six strikeouts.  Without a doubt the job belongs to Lindstrom and the only is risk is if he can hold onto the job.

9.  Chicago White Sox - Bobby Jenks had a rough spring and also suffered from a sore calf.  Over his past two appearances he has struck out two and surrendered no runs.  Everything looks to be ok for now, but if you own Jenks then you need to own Matt Thornton as well.

10.  New York Mets - Francisco Rodriguez had a great spring and he did while developing a new pitch for his arsenal. Over the years, we've gotten use to seeing KROD throw a nasty curveball and a hard fastball. Now he has worked in a changeup that is clocked around 79-80. I watched him use it frequently in a two inning stint against the Nationals and he struck out the side using it. With the additional pitch it makes KROD allot better, and a dominant closer again for 2010.

Bonus: 
Matt Capps has had two straight scoreless innings.  Right now he has the closer job in Washington, but he will be on a short lease.  Drew Storen WILL NOT be the closer for the Nationals if Capps fails.  Storen is at best a September call up as he still needs to work on his changeup and develop all his pitches for major league hitters.  He isn't even part of their 40-man roster.  If Capps fails, expect Brian Bruney to get a chance at the job.

Pre-Season Closer Power Ranking Released!

Check it out here -  Latest Closer Power Rankings

Drift Wood

Kerry Wood is up to his old tricks again, he has a strained right latissimus dorsi muscle and will start the year on the DL.

Wood has been given a timetable of 6-8 weeks, but we all know he is prone to setbacks so it could be even longer. All this does is force former Cardinals closing hopeful Chris Perez into the ninth inning role.

Chris Perez was acquired from the Cardinals in the Mark DeRosa trade last year. Perez has always had great stuff and no one has questioned his talent. Last year between STL and CLE Perez pitched 61 innings striking out 68 with a 4.26 ERA and a 1.19 WHIP.

Perez did struggle early last year but once he was comfortable in Cleveland after the all star break he posted strong numbers. he pitched 29 innings striking out 34 with a 3.10 ERA and giving up and opponents batting average against of .184.

Cleveland will be a terrible team but Perez could keep the job all year and possibly give you a cheap 30 saves.

The Bay State Scout

(bay_state_scout@comcast.net)

Welcome Chris Perez to closer duties; Kerry Wood out

Chris Perez will finally get the chance to show us his closer stuff.  It was announced that Kerry Wood would miss the next 2 months with a strained muscle in his upper back.  This is an opportunity that has been long awaited by analysts who feel Perez is a born and bred closer. 

Perez has a 98 mph fastball and a tight breaking ball that makes in a dominating closer.  For Perez owners, you have to worry about his high BB/9 rate and control.  So far in his short career, Perez's control has been the source of most of his problems.  Regaining control of all his pitches, particularly his fastball  is the next step for the 25-year old pitcher.  I did see Perez make major improvements late last season, but with the Indians throwing in the towel early, you can only get so much out of those numbers.  

With Perez closing, he will have a different mindset when he goes out to pitch.  You will see more fastballs and less walks.  He will pound the strike zone and if all goes well I don't see him losing the job.  Wood is in the last year of a two year contract, which isn't good for the aging closer  At best the Indians will trade him, but not likely find any takers.
Go and get Perez on your roster ASAP.  The 25-year old pitcher will have his growing pains and I wouldn't expect a super low ERA, but expect the WHIP to go down and the strikeouts to increase. 

ANALYSIS: Still Waiting On Street's MRI

Allot of fantasy owners are waiting and walking on egg shells for results of Huston Street's MRI.  One thing I can guarantee is Street will open the season on the 15-day DL.  He has yet to throw in a spring training game, so he has to get some work in.  He felt great on Monday after throwing 25 pitches, but they felt "discomfort" on Tuesday.  When players use the word "discomfort" it is normally good.  It could be a number of non serious injuries, but is left open to a serious one. 
I don't want to give much analysis before the MRI results come out, but I've seen this before and I'm 85% sure that it will end up be a strained tendon or something along those lines.  It will be interesting to see what his retroactive date will be and when he will be available to pitch for your fantasy team.  IN the short term I expect Franklin Morales to get a few saves until Street returns.

ANALYSIS:
Huston Street has dropped in my closer rankings from 5 to 8, but the injury could help his draft value.  Allot of managers tend to stay away from hurt pitchers in the drafts, so he will likely fall at least two rounds in the draft.  That makes him a much higher value for a pitcher that will likely only miss two weeks of the season. 
I did have Street as a 8/10 on my injury risk scale.  You have to expect it from Street, but if he gets it out of the way early, it could be a great year for Street.  Look to draft him in the 10th round instead of the 8th round and you might even be able to draft him later.  He is still one of the better closers this season.

2010 Closer Profile: Frank Francisco, Rangers

By Todd Farino, www.thecloserreport.com

Team: Texas Rangers
Projections: 34-3.10-1.17-81(SV-WIN-ERA-WHIP-K)

Average Draft Position: 203th pick +4

Recommended Draft Round: 15

Team Saves Projection: 51

Injury Risk/Stability: 7/7

Top 50 Rank: #17

Check out the entire draft kit by clicking here

Frank Francisco as the ability to be a stud closer, but injury and confidence issues plagued him last season. He has nasty stuff and can pitch out of any jam for the Rangers. In order for Francisco for succeed, he needs to find consistency in his pitches and needs to remain healthy. I feel that Francisco is still learning the job with less than 60 games as a closer under his belt.  He'll feel some pressure to perform with allot of talent backing him up Neftali Feliz and C.J. Wilson, Washington won't hesitate to use one of them to closeout games. He should have a fine healthy season and keep his job. I expect him to take the final step in developing into a stud closer by learning the mental side of the role.


The True Guru Strategy: Frank Francisco is going late in drafts and for good reason. With Neftali Feliz hot on your back, it's fair to have concern about him. With the minor concerns of who might close for the Rangers, you should be able to draft Francisco at a great value. He's a fine pick in the 14th or 15th round, but getting him even later is absolutly possible. He's a good #2 closer for your staff and is probably more valuable than even my estimations.

2010 Closer Profile: Brain Wilson, Giants

By Todd Farino, www.thecloserreport.com

Team: San Francisco Giants
Projections: 36-5-3.07-1.31-78(SV-WIN-ERA-WHIP-K)

Average Draft Position: 142th pick +9

Recommended Draft Round: 11

Team Saves Projection: 42

Injury Risk/Stability: 10/10

Top 50 Rank: #15

Check out the entire draft kit by clicking here

Brian Wilson was one of the most underrated closers in 2009 and will be one of the more overrated in 2010. He had an outstanding 2009 season with 38 saves and an ERA under 2.75. With that being said, Wilson is a still a risk. He will regress in 2010 naturally, but it won't be by much. The Giants should be a better team both offensively and from their starters, so Wilson will have opportunities to close.  But with more work and now well-known,  he won't keep his ERA below 3.00 and he won't reach 38 saves again.


The True Guru Strategy: Wilson is a great value pick in the 11th round or later. Currently he is going around the 13th round. If you can get him in the 12-13th it's a great value. Wilson is a solid #2 closer for your staff, but again expect a regression from last season.

2010 Closer Profile: Joakim Soria, Royals

By Todd Farino, www.thecloserreport.com

Team: Kansas City Royals
Projections: 37-3-1.98-1.08-81(SV-WIN-ERA-WHIP-K)

Average Draft Position: 99th pick No Change

Recommended Draft Round: 9

Team Saves Projection: 43

Injury Risk/Stability: 8/10

Top 50 Rank: #14

Check out the entire draft kit by clicking here

Soria had a tough year statistically in 2009 due to injury and some bad luck, which is good news for managers who draft him in 2010. Soria's biggest problem was the lingering injury he had last season, yet he still he finished with 30 saves, 2.21 ERA, and a much improved K/9 rate of 1.3. His last two seasons averaged a 1.04 K/9. Expect Soria to continue to dominate with his excellent control, zippy fastball, and nasty breaking ball.  He is one of the elite closers in the league and would be rated much higher if he was on a better team.

The True Guru Strategy: Most owners won't notice Soria's improved K/9 rate because he got about the same amount of strikeouts. His numbers will also drop him in the draft a tiny bit.  Don't be afraid to take Soria in the ninth round. Only the Royals can hold him back at this point and even they are improving.

Joe Nathan has Torn ligment in elbow

Bad news for Twins fans and anyone who has drafted Joe Nathan so far this season. Nathan tore a ligament in his elbow and may need Tommy John surgery.  We will know more in two weeks, but I wouldn't pin my hopes on Nathan for 2010.  The guys on the roster to take the closer role are Jon Rauch and Matt Guerrier.  I don't think it will be either.  The guy on the roster I like is Francisco Liriano.  He's a pitcher with great lights out stuff and he has limitations with his past arm problems.  Clearly he is in the front running for the closer spot on the Twins. 

If the Twins aren't ready to put Liriano in that role, look for the Twins to go out and sign or trade for a closer.  John Smoltz is out there?  The Blue Jays may trade Frasor or Downs?  Joel Hanrahan could be acquired and even B.J. Ryan is a free agent. 

The point is we have to wait two weeks to find out more, but watch how Liriano is used in spring training and see who the Twins start looking at.  My money is on Smoltz.  Assuming he'd come back to the American League.

2010 Closer Profile: Francisco Cordero, Reds

By Todd Farino, www.thecloserreport.com

Team: Cincinnati Reds
Projections: 38-2-2.69-1.39-54(SV-WIN-ERA-WHIP-K)

Average Draft Position: 106th pick No Change

Recommended Draft Round: 11

Team Saves Projection: 45

Injury Risk/Stability: 8/9

Top 50 Rank: #13

Check out the entire draft kit by clicking here

Francisco Cordero is an anomaly in my eyes. He's such a risky closer because of his history of inconsistency for big chunks of seasons. Last year was one of the best years of his career, but owners should take a step back and consider some of the liabilities of drafting Cordero as a #1 closer in 2010. Here are a few. On average, Cordero blows close to eight games per year. Last year he blew 4.  His career era is 3.18, last year 2.16. Even more bad news, his K/9 rate declined significantly in 2009 and turning 35 in May isn't helping the possibility of injury or further regression. The good news is the Reds will improve a ton in 2010. Cordero will pitch 70+ innings and get 38-40 saves, but don't expect the great numbers to go along with it.


The True Guru Strategy: I don't like drafting closers like Cordero. He is too much of a wild card and just too old. His ADP has him going in the ninth round and that is too high for Cordero. There are several closers I'd take before him. He is a good value in the 11th round and no sooner.

Joe Nathan to get MRI and CT Scan on Elbow

FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP)—Twins closer Joe Nathan(notes) is headed back to Minnesota to get his surgically repaired right elbow checked out.

Nathan says he felt fine while he was working out before spring training games. But there was some soreness when he threw 20 pitches against the Boston Red Sox on Saturday.

Nathan was expected to fly back to Minnesota on Sunday for tests. The 35-year-old right-hander had surgery Oct. 20 to remove bone spurs from the elbow.
Nathan says he isn’t too worried, and will know more after doctors compare tests results with those taken last year.

FANTASY ANALYSIS:  It's never good when a stud pitcher is having elbow issues in spring training.  After having minor surgery in the off-season, Nathan felt some discomfort in his first appearance of the new year.  I wouldn't be too worried at this time, but until we find out more I'd hold off drafting Nathan before the 8th round.



Nathan was 2-2 with a 2.10 ERA with a career-high 47 saves last year.

2010 Closer Profile: Billy Wagner, Braves

By Todd Farino, www.thecloserreport.com

Team: Atlanta Braves

Projections: 40-4-2.69-1.11-80 (SV-WIN-ERA-WHIP-K)

Average Draft Position: 147th pick +14

Recommended Draft Round: 12

Team Saves Projection: 52

Injury Risk/Stability: 7/9

Top 50 Rank: #12

Check out the entire draft kit by clicking here

Billy Wagner is back. For years he was one of the best closers in the league and in 2010 he will close for the Atlanta Braves. After Tommy John surgery, Wagner came back earlier than expected for the Mets and felt great. He was then dealt to the Red Sox where he racked up 22 strikeouts in 13.2 innings. He showed that his command and strength were back along with his trademark velocity. His injury issues will be a concern for most managers, and add to that the fact; pitchers tend to come back stronger from Tommy John surgery for the first year, then decline. That makes Billy Wagner a risk, and a sneaky sleeper closer that will give you 40 saves. What makes a great closer is heart, and just like Rod Tidwell, Wagner is all heart.

The True Guru Strategy: Currently Wagner's ADP is round 13. All season I've recommended drafting Wagner in the 12th round, and I stand by that.  He will be much more valuable then that and managers need to understand his value as a lefty closer and his K/9 rate. If he is there in round 12, don't hesitate to draft him.