Here's our first look at the 2010 relief pitcher board. It will change significantly come next spring, of course, when we add several rookies and perhaps a foreign import or two. Enjoy the playoffs.
Last Update: 9/30
Next Update: March 2010
1. Joe Nathan, Twins. Note: You'll never lose money here.
2. Mariano Rivera, Yankees. Note: Not showing any signs of slippage.
3. Jonathan Papelbon, Red Sox
4. Francisco Rodriguez, Mets
5. Joakim Soria, Royals
6. Heath Bell, Padres
7. Jonathan Broxton, Dodgers. Note: Nasty stuff but breakdown possible.
8. Jose Valverde, Astros
9. Carlos Marmol, Cubs. Note: A year late, here come the nasty numbers.
10. Andrew Bailey, Athletics
11. Francisco Cordero, Reds
12. David Aardsma, Mariners
13. Brian Wilson, Giants. Note: Just don't watch him pitch.
14. Frank Francisco, Rangers
15. Brian Fuentes, Angels. Note: Thanks for the cushy role, Mike Scioscia.
16. Huston Street, Rockies
17. Fernando Rodney, Tigers
18. Kerry Wood, Indians
19. Neftali Feliz, Rangers. Note: Must-see TV when he's on the hill.
20. Rafael Soriano, Braves
21. Ryan Franklin, Cardinals
22. Matt Capps, Pirates
23. Bobby Jenks, White Sox. Note: Will he close in a different city?
24. Trevor Hoffman, Brewers. Note: Too much downside for our taste.
25. Matt Thornton, White Sox. Note: Ozzie isn't afraid to close with a lefty.
26. Jim Johnson, Orioles
27. J.P. Howell, Rays
28. Juan Gutierrez, Diamondbacks
29. Ryan Madson, Phillies
30. Phil Hughes, Yankees
31. Chris Perez, Indians. Note: A clear closer of the future.
32. Mike MacDougal, Nationals
33. Brad Lidge, Phillies. Note: Can they rebuild his confidence?
34. Mike Gonzalez, Braves
35. Leo Nunez, Marlins
36. Jason Frasor, Blue Jays
37. Matt Lindstrom, Marlins
38. Chad Qualls, Diamondbacks
39. George Sherrill, Dodgers
40. Rafael Betancourt, Rockies. Note: Throw a pitch, already.
41. Brett Myers, Phillies
42. Scott Downs, Blue Jays
43. Jason Motte, Cardinals
44. Kevin Jepsen, Angels. Note: Likely No. 2 if Fuentes breaks down.
45. Kris Medlen, Braves
46. C.J. Wilson, Rangers
47. Daniel Bard, Red Sox
48. Luke Gregerson, Padres. Note: Could open year as their No. 2.
49. Joel Hanrahan, Pirates
50. Hong-Chih Kuo, Dodgers
51. Mark Lowe, Mariners
52. Dan Wheeler, Rays
53. Brandon Lyon, Tigers
54. Michael Wuertz, Athletics. Note: Deep bullpen, roomy park.
55. Jeremy Affeldt, Giants
56. Brad Ziegler, Athletics
57. Matt Guerrier, Twins
58. Juan Cruz, Royals
59. Angel Guzman, Cubs
60. Joe Thatcher, Padres
61. Sean Burnett, Nationals
62. Octavio Dotel, White Sox
63. Manny Delcarmen, Red Sox
64. LaTroy Hawkins, Astros
