Mike Gonzalez - "officially" the closer?

[Mercer Boy]

Littlefield sure seems to say that he will be in this piece...

However, Pirates General Manager Dave Littlefield had no problem with dealing his most versatile player for another lefty.

"Gonzalez is going to be closing for the first time and you don't know for sure how it's all going to work out," Littlefield said. "I felt we needed to protect him and our bullpen with another quality lefty. When we had a chance to acquire a pitcher of Marte's caliber, it was too hard to pass up."

I know you guys were on the edge of your seat to hear that one...

[Amazinz]

I guess Roberto Hernandez will be in line if Gonzalez falters? If I draft Gonzalez in any early draft I'll probably try to grab Hernandez late as a handcuff. Or will it be Torres?

[Red Stripe]

Gonzo was kind of shaky last year, I'm not too worried about him though. I think he'll prove to be a very servicable closer.

[stumpak]

Gonzalez was also pitchign hurt for the first half of the season and performed nicely once Mesa was canned. I think he will do well.