Closer Monkey

Category: Chicago Cubs

  • Closer Rankings: Nos. 21-30

    March 13, 2014 21. Jim Henderson, Milwaukee Brewers — Pitched very well last year and has a bobblehead giveaway to look forward to — but also has Brandon Kintzler and human bobblehead K-Rod on his heels. 22. Addison Reed, Arizona Diamondbacks — The closer who produced the widest variance in our rankings, Reed is either on the…

  • 2014 NL Central bullpen preview

    March 9, 2014 Chicago Cubs – The Cubs signed Jose Veras to a one year deal and he should start the season as their closer.  The Cubs used Pedro Strop as their primary set-up man after they traded for him towards the end of last year and he should resume that role again to start…

  • Pedro Strop now closing for the Cubs

    September 19, 2013 Chicago Cubs – Although the Kevin Gregg era was astonishingly successful in Chicago, the Cubs are looking ahead to next season and have announced that Pedro Strop will close over the last 10 games. Hierarchy change: Pedro Strop to Closer, Kevin Gregg to Set-Up.   . Closer . Set-Up . 2nd in line . 2014 Closer…

  • Ernesto Frieri is getting worse; a parting gift from Kevin Gregg

    July 31, 2013 Los Angeles Angels — In a wild game characterized by awful relief by both teams, Ernesto Frieri blew another save. Frieri has retired only 6 of the last 20 batters he’s faced, and although Dane de la Rosa and Kevin Jepsen were even worse last night, Frieri’s seat is getting hot enough for Mike Scioscia to…

  • Pedro Strop and Mitchell Boggs are relevant again

    July 22, 2013 Chicago Cubs – For a “good time on the mound,” Dale Sveum plans to call on Pedro Strop to be the Cubs’ new closer if Kevin Gregg heads elsewhere this month, as expected. Hierarchy change: Pedro Strop to Set-up, Blake Parker to 2nd in line. . Closer . Set-Up . 2nd in line . 2014 Closer…