(Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
Everyone is going to blow saves occasionally, so the one legitimate blown save doesn’t bother me in the least. He’s been fantastic this season and is among the best in the league once again.
Philadelphia Phillies - Ryan Madson - There is absolutely no controversy in Philly.
Madson looked good early on, but has given up runs in his last three outings, chalking up a pair of loses. Upon his return, Brad Lidge will be given the opportunity to immediately to take back his closers role.
If he can rebound is another story, but he’s going to be the man.
Pittsburgh Pirates - Matt Capps - He’s got 16 saves, but done it with a 5.16 ERA and 1.59 WHIP.
If he pitched for another franchise, I’d be worried about him being yanked from the role, but it’s the Pirates, so he appears to be safe. He’s usable, since he’s going to get saves, but he’s certainly not one of the better options right now. If something happens, John Grabow figures to step into the role, so keep that in mind if you are desperate.
San Diego Padres - Heath Bell - There have been rumors/speculation that he could be moved prior to the trade deadline, so that is certainly something worth watching. He has been spectacular thus far, picking up 19 saves with a 1.19 ERA and 0.92 WHIP.
If he were to be moved for whatever reason, it would likely be a free-for-all as to who takes over, so basically hope that doesn’t happen.
San Francisco Giants - Brian Wilson - He has picked up a save in ten of his last eleven outings. His ERA, which sat at 4.87 on May 21, is all the way down to 2.94. He’s been perfect over his last four innings. He has 13 Ks in 9.1 innings in June.
He is putting it all together right now, to say the least. He could sputter back down to earth, but right now he is a great option in all formats.
St. Louis Cardinals - Ryan Franklin - Talk about coming out of nowhere to emerge as a must-use closer, he is the prime example for those who believe in not drafting a closer early. He has a 1.00 ERA and 0.89 WHIP.
He’s only allowed an earned run in two appearances all season, the last of which came on May 20. Those young Cardinals relievers clearly missed their opportunity to claim the job, because Franklin seems unlikely to relinquish it.
Washington Nationals - Mike MacDougal - Is this role finally settled in DC? In his last three appearances (3.2 innings), he has given up just one hit and two walks, picking up two saves in the process.
Of course, he hasn’t struck a batter out in those games, but we’re just splitting hairs now, aren’t we?
If he’s going to hold onto the job, then he’s going to have value to fill out your staff, but I’m going to believe it when I see it. Check back in with me in two weeks and let’s see what’s going on.
What do you think? Which National League closer is most likely to lose his job next?
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