Potential Closer

It took just two batters, around twenty pitches, to unravel Twins closer Joe Nathan. Yes, the 35 year-old's elbow is finally starting to show it age. After coming off a phenomenal 2009, in which he saved a club record of forty-seven games, Nathan had surgery to remove bone chips in his throwing elbow. The question now remains. Who should be the closer if Nathan's injury lingers? There are four in this running, Jon Rauch, Jesse Crain , Pat Neshek , Matt Guerrier. I will explain in the following paragraphs why none of these fits the criteria for a good closer and who on the team does.

The most logical of the choice would be Jon Rauch. Rauch, 6'`11'' (tallest player in the history of the major leagues), is the only one on this list who has had closing experience. Rauch saved a total of twenty-two games while blowing six games. 78% saves % isn't bad, but it isn't good either.

Now let's look at Jesse Crain. The main reason Crain is this mix is because he drafted him. Crain has had his struggles, which he has battle through. Crain is one of those guys that had and still has a lot of potential but hasn't panned out as of yet. He is a great guy for short relief or even setup, but not closer material.

The most intriguing of this is Pat Neshek. This side-armed hurler has been the one of the most consistent guys you will find. He would fit perfectly into the closing roll. The problem with this, Neshek has been plagued with injuries. Neshek will likely start the year down in either Ft. Myers A or extended spring training, due to the weather factor. By the time Pat is ready, Nathan would most likely be ready to give it another try.

Our last option being considered is Matt Guerrier. Just like Crain, Matt is perfect for a short relief or setup roll. Matt IS the most consistent guy you can find. He sports a good ERA and feels very comfortable using his curveball. Matt doesn't like to over-power people with his stuff, which is his downfall. In a closer, you would like to see someone with power.

I think the player best fit for the closer roll is Francisco Liriano, who is currently in the rotation. When Liriano first came up, he thrived, posting a 12-3 record and a 2.13 ERA. Since, his career has been injury plagued and disappointing. Liriano has proven that he is better fit for the bullpen. Take a look at this stat- in his first fifteen pitches, Liriano's opponents bat .203 . That is a tremendous number! The rotation has depth, the bullpen needs a closer, all Minnesota needs is a championship.