Franklin picks up save, uncertainty in St. Louis continues

Ryan Franklin picked up his first save of the season for St. Louis on Monday. Franklin is the 4th Cardinals pitcher to receive a save chance this season, joining Kyle McClellan, Dennys Reyes, and Jason Motte. The closer's role is still very much up for grabs in St. Louis, though Franklin could be the best bet for saves for now. He has the most experience of anyone on the St. Louis staff- he closed out games for the Cardinals for part of last season. Still, Franklin is far from a sure thing. He was inconsistent as the St. Louis closer last year, and ultimately lost the job. Franklin is worth adding for now, but be aware: the question of who's closing for St. Louis is far from answered.

Cardinals Closer Role Undecided

The fight continues in St. Louis for who will be named opening day closer. If the winner holds the job and has a good season he could have very nice fantasy value at a bargain price. Jason Motte, Josh Kinney, Chris Perez and Ryan Franklin are all in the battle. Perez was the early favorite, but has dropped back due to a shoulder injury while Jason Motte, on the other hand, is having an excellent Spring Training: 8+ IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 13 K with 4 saves. At 26 Motte may need some more experience, but he has been dominant….in Spring Training. Perez will be out for a few days to undergo tests on his right shoulder. Long shot Josh Kinney has been very solid: 7 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 4 BB, 9 K with 2 saves, but the 29-year-old is returning from Tommy John surgery and closing may be a year away. Ryan Franklin is the fall-back guy and is a better set-up pitcher, though he does have value in a league that gives points for hold. Jason Motte’s value now surpasses that of Perez, but Perez may still has better long-term value as Motte is unproven. Sin City Scout