Gregg Out As Cubs Closer

After another poor outing, Kevin Gregg has lost his job as Cubs closer. The final straw came during last night's game in San Diego. Gregg was attempting to preserve a 1-0 Cubs lead, but gave up a three run home run to Kyle Blanks, and then allowed another run to score later in the inning, costing the Cubs a win. After the game Cubs Manager Lou Pinella said that changes were coming in the Chicago bullpen. Gregg who has earned 23 saves on the season, has also blown 6 saves and allowed 12 Home Runs in 56.2 innings. He is likely to slide into a set up role. Two relievers from the Chicago bullpen are candidates to move into the closer's role. The first is familiar name, Carlos Marmol (65% owned in Yahoo Leagues). Marmol, who closed some for the Cubs last year, has terrific raw stuff, but has struggled with his control this season (he's walked 52 in 56 innings). The other possibility is Angel Guzman (3% owned in Yahoo Leagues). Guzman has been the Cubs most consistent reliever, with a 2.42 ERA, .98 WHIP, and 39:15 K:BB ratio. Manager Lou Pinella has not officially named a replacement, but odds are that Marmol, because of his closing experience, gets the first chance to close games. If he's available, Marmol is the guy to target. However, be ready to pounce on Guzman if Marmol struggles.

Gregg Beats Out Marmol

Chicago Cubs named Kevin Gregg to be the team’s closer over thought-to-be closer Carlos Marmol. They both where battling to replace All-Star closer Kerry Wood, who signed with Cleveland during the offseason. Gregg had 32 saves in 2007 and has 62 for his career, so he has the experience edge. Marmol, who also pitched for the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic and went 1-1 with a 4.50 ERA in spring training. Marmol still has value as a setup man and ace back-up closer, but this is a huge disappointment for Marmol owners. Sin City Scout