DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL Central—Who closes if Gregg goes?
Jun 28 2013
Though Kevin Gregg (RHP, CHC) has filled in admirably since taking over the closer’s job in May—including 12 saves and a BPV spike not seen since 2006—rumors persist that he’ll be traded by July 31. Gregg is living on borrowed fanalytic time, as his 26% hit rate and 91% strand rate attest. But by hanging on at this level for just a couple more weeks, Gregg will provide “value” for those MLB GMs who like guys that have saved games before.
Given that both Carlos Marmol (RHP, CHC) and Kyuji Fujikawa (RHP, CHC) are out of the picture, who are the Cubs’ closer candidates if and when Gregg moves on? Two candidates stand out:
- James Russell (LHP, CHC) has a 94 BPV and is in his fourth season, so he should get consideration....
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