Neftali Feliz: Texas Rangers Closer Hits the DL

While Neftali Feliz had a 1.08 ERA and six K’s in 8.1 innings in 2011, something seemed to be off with him on the mound.

His velocity on his fastball decreased by two mph (96 to 94) and his BB/9 increased from 2.3 to 5.4. In his last outing against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Feliz walked three in one inning.

Something wasn’t quite right.

As it turns out, Feliz has had an inflamed shoulder since spring training, and the Texas Rangers have finally decided to shut him down. The Rangers placed Feliz on the 15-day DL on Saturday with inflammation of his pitching shoulder. The move is for precautionary reasons, and he is expected to be back in the Rangers bullpen in 15 days.

In regards to Feliz’s replacement, it looks like Darren Oliver will get the first crack at save opportunities in the ninth. Oliver was asked to close out the Kansas City Royals on Saturday night and delivered.

Despite that save, I wouldn’t trust Oliver in any high leverage situation—ever. I would stay away from him in all fantasy formats. He won’t be worth it for the 15 days that Feliz is out.

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