Quote:
Originally Posted by Heathens '87
Exactly....closers are usually developed, not bought on the open market. Two years ago, the Tigers made a surprising and unexpected run to the World Series and did so with Todd Jones as closer. We weren't expecting to be in that position so having Todd in that role wasn't really an issue.
Last year, I think the Tigers thought would be the transition year to Zumaya. Bring the veteran Jones along as a handcuff and to start the season in the role, start the transition to Zumaya, and the logical move is made. Injuries all over the bullpen make that impossible, but that doesn't mean the need to move on isn't still there.
The injuries delayed this transition by a year, but it's coming this spring........
|
Lets just temper those expectations on Zumaya. He look bad when he came back and I think it will take him until at least the middle of the year before he could be expected to take over the closer role and that is based on him returning to his old form which is not a sure thing. plus the guy is still learning to pitch.