We’re back with another look at some closing situations around the league.  All stats are through Monday, June 12th.   

LA Dodgers

Eric Gagne was placed on the disabled list Tuesday with inflammation around a nerve in his surgically repaired right elbow.  It looks like Takashi Saito is manager Grady Little’s current choice for the interim closing role but Danys Baez could work his way back into the picture.  Both need to be owned.

St. Louis Cardinals

Jason Isringhausen has put together back-to-back solid performances after getting a couple of days off to work on some mechanical issues.  His job security is pretty solid at the moment but he's still not that far removed from his poor performances.  Those of you in NL-only leagues should still have Braden Looper or Adam Wainwright on your roster.

Atlanta Braves

Ken Ray has picked up two saves in the past week and is the unofficial closer for the Braves.  He’s only walked one batter in his last 10 games which has really helped to improve his K/BB ratio.  I still don’t think he’s a good long-term bet. No one else in the Atlanta pen has stepped up, so Ray should continue to see the majority of the saves until the Braves can find bullpen help around the trade deadline.

Detroit Tigers

Manager Jim Leyland gave Todd Jones a vote of confidence on Sunday despite the Jones’ struggles last week.  Fernando Rodney continues to pitch well, outside of a bad game on Friday, and is the better reliever of the two.  Unfortunately for Rodney owners it seems Jones would have to hit a lengthy rough patch for there to be a role reversal.  Regardless, Rodney will continue to see the occasional save making him a worthwhile reliever to own in almost any format.

Arizona Diamondbacks

A poor outing on Friday has delayed Jose Valverde’s return to the closing role in Arizona.  Jorge Julio remains the interim closer with Brandon Lyon setting him up.  Valverde should be held on to as manager Bob Melvin still wants to see him back in the closing role once he works through his problems.

Injuries

Eric Gagne, LA (elbow) – Gagne was placed on the disabled list on Tuesday with inflammation around a nerve in his surgically repaired right elbow.  The Dodgers are hopeful some rest will help clear up the problem.  Gagne owners should obviously be concerned.

Mike MacDougal, KC (strained upper right arm) – MacDougal joined Double-A Wichita on Monday to begin a rehab assignment.  He could be back around the first of July and he’s expected to resume closing duties at that time.

Pen Names is your guide to bullpen situations around the majors.  Questions for inclusion in future columns can be emailed to Pelowski@CREATiVESPORTS.com.