Chicago White Sox: Why Hector Santiago Can Be Robin Ventura's Closer All Season

Chicago White Sox manager Robin Ventura waited until the last possible moment to unveil his closer for the 2012 season. It wasn't until Chicago's first save situation approached that the choice was warming up in the bullpen.

Rookie Hector Santiago got up soon after Alex Rios homered to give Chicago a 4-3 lead Saturday night. The 24-year-old lefty then slammed the door on the Texas Rangers with a perfect ninth.

Santiago picked up his second save in as many opportunities in Cleveland Monday despite allowing a leadoff homer to Jose Lopez. The White Sox won 4-2 and it appears that the job is his to retain through the season.

Why is it good that Santiago holds on to his new job? Here are some reasons to consider.

1. Santiago Goes After Hitters

In his appearances both this year and in two games in 2011, Santiago has been aggressive.

Santiago throws mid-90s heat and mixes in two breaking pitches. He has a curveball and also throws a screwball that moves away from right-handed batters.

Even after giving up a home run Monday, Santiago continued to have the confidence to challenge the Indians. A closer needs to have a short memory and confidence in his stuff. For now, Santiago has both.

2. The Rest of the Bullpen Falls into Place

With Santiago as the go-to man in the ninth, the heart of Chicago's bullpen can settle into familiar roles.

Jesse Crain and Matt Thornton can be used effectively to set up Santiago, while Addison Reed takes over Chris Sale's spot from last year.

Will Ohman and Thornton will have to spit the responsibilities of getting out the tough left-handers, but the bullpen should benefit from Crain and Thornton pitching in their comfort zone.

3. Hey, It Worked Last Year

A rookie closer worked last season, considering Sergio Santos went from minor-league infielder to the end of the bullpen in a couple of seasons.

Santiago started 23 games in the minors last season, but so far has taken to the stopper's role. Santos saved 30 games for Chicago a year ago. If the team has the same kind of patience in Santiago, it could prove to be a successful decision on Ventura's part.