Monday, March 30, 2009
Gregg to Start Season as Closer
In a sudden turn of events, Cubs coach Lou Pinella has opted for Kevin Gregg to start the 09' campaign as the Cubs closer. Gregg, who competed with Carlos Marmol this Spring, won the job by not giving up any runs in any of his appearances in Spring Training. We will see how this pans out for the Cubs, given that Gregg has only 62 saves over the course of his career. Marmol gives the Cubs a flexible and dynamic arm in the late innings and I believe he is better suited in that role. This is a blessing in disguise for Pinella because he has multiple assets in Gregg and Marmol and down the stretch he will be able to use that to his advantage.
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I like the decision. It gives Piniella more ability to pick and choose when he uses Marmol. The 9th inning isn't always the most critical situation in which to use your ace reliever. I never have a problem if Marmol comes into the game in the 6th inning if the Cubs need to get out of a tough jam in a close game.
ReplyDeleteI'm sure there will be times when Cubs fans want to strangle Gregg, but he'll do a serviceable job. He's just good enough that Marmol may need see many save chances.