We’re back with another look at some closing situations around the league.  All stats are through Monday, July 10th.   

Cincinnati Reds

The Reds acquired Eddie Guardado from the Mariners last week and will move him into a closing role with the club.  Guardado was 1-3 with a 5.48 ERA and five saves with the Mariners this season but since May he’s posted a more respectable 3.58 ERA with a 13/4 K/BB ratio in 15.1 innings.  Todd Coffey, who pitched very well in a setup role before becoming the Reds closer last month, will return to pitching the 8th inning for the Reds.  Guardado isn’t going to become an elite closer in the NL but the Reds are giving him a closing job and he can still be effective enough to have fantasy value. 

Atlanta Braves

Ken Ray picked up a save opportunity on Saturday after Jorge Sosa blew a save opportunity on Thursday last week.  This doesn’t necessarily mean Ray has reassumed sole possession of the closing role in Atlanta but he is probably the favorite to get the next opportunity the team generates.  Neither seems like the man for the job and it doesn’t seem like the Braves have anyone else in their pen that they trust to close out games. 

Since the Braves find themselves only six games out of the wild card at the All-Star break they might consider trading for some bullpen help before the trade deadline.  Scott Williamson of the Cubs could be an option or the Pirates’ Roberto Hernandez could also be a fit.  Neither would cost the Braves a ton and it’s doubtful they’ll be willing to give up any significant prospects to land a higher profile reliever.  Watch this team closely in the standings as that will determine what, if any, moves they make.

Injuries

Eric Gagne, LA (elbow, back) – Things got worse for Gagne since our last update.  He was diagnosed with a herniated disk in his back last week and underwent surgery on Saturday to take care of the problem.  Gagne will miss the rest of the season as he recovers from this surgery and his elbow problems.  He’s expected to be ready for Spring Training but it is uncertain if the Dodgers will be interested in signing him to an incentive-laden deal after declining their option on Gagne for 2007.   Takashi Saito has taken over closing duties and should keep the job provided he remains effective.  Danys Baez would be a solid bench option in NL-only leagues as he’s second in line for saves.

Mike MacDougal, KC (strained upper right arm) – MacDougal threw back-to-back scoreless innings for Triple-A Omaha this weekend and should be activated off the disabled list after the All-Star break.  He is expected to resume closing upon his return to the majors.

Tyler Walker, TB (elbow) – Walker was informed last week that he will need Tommy John surgery.  He is done for the season.  Brian Meadows will continue to close in Tampa "until something else shows up," according to manager Joe Maddon.  Fantasy leaguers should keep an eye on Ruddy Lugo and Seth McClung.  Edwin Jackson, who Maddon mentioned as a potential closing candidate a few weeks back, hasn’t pitched well enough to put himself in a position to earn an opportunity at the end of ballgames. 

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