Can Otsuka be the closer?

[BeSquare]

If the Padres don't re-sign Hoffman, is there any chance A. Otsuka would get the closer role in 2006???

[TheYanks04]

Linebrink is in the mix and they could sign someone like a Wickman or Jones on the cheap depending on what happens on the market. There is no way to guess what is going to happen.

[PlayingWithFire]

Linebrink is in the mix and they could sign someone like a Wickman or Jones on the cheap depending on what happens on the market. There is no way to guess what is going to happen.

ditto

[Amazinz]

Linebrink would be my guess if they don't bring in someone from outside the organization. I think Linebrink has publically said he's interested in the position.

[kentx12]

I believe Linebrink would be given the cahnce to get the job if they didnt bring someone else in.

[davidmarver]

Bochy lost a lot of trust in Otsuka towards the middle of last season and I doubt Otsuka has earned it back yet. Linebrink, however, has been the Padres best reliever for back-to-back seasons and, as a former starter, has the longevity to pitch more than 1 inning an outing.

In case you missed his September:
3-0, 1sv, 16.2 IP, 8H, 0ER, 2BB, 17K, 0.00ERA, 0.60 WHIP

He'd take the closer job if, heaven forbid, Hoffman doesn't return.

[wrveres]

Towers had said publically he would put Linebrink into that role.

Hoffman is coming back anyways, so no stresses ...

[bronxxbomber]

I think Linebrink gets first crack at the job if they don't secure a closer this offseason.

[Pogotheostrich]

Are the Pads bringing back Seanez? He did very well last year.

[Mercer Boy]

Yeah, I bet Linebrink would get the call. He had an implosion in the middle of the season, but the first and last two months were very good for him.