Next in line to CLOSE for the PIRATES???

[zEli173]

I've heard Scott Sauerbeck and Salomon Torres both mentioned as next in line. I want to be ready to swoop in when the other shoe falls for Mike Williams. Who's it gonna be?

[fac273]

The following is the latest info from ESPN's NL Closer Watch:

Mike Williams, Security: Medium

7/3 - 7/9: 4 G, 4 IP, 5 H, 5 ER, 3 BB, 0 K (1-0, 3 Sv, 1 BS).

Status: Williams keeps picking up save in the ugliest possible fashion. And he'll take that form all the way to the All-Star Game in Chicago. Manager Lloyd McClendon hasn't suggested a change is in the works, but he has publicly criticized Williams' recent performances, a departure from his earlier comments. The fact remains that if the Pirates really had a viable alternative, Williams might already be out of a job.

Fantasy Insurance: Salomon Torres. A longshot to close full time, Torres picked up a save on July 8 against Milwaukee. The part-time starter does have decent power and could make an interesting experiment if the Pirates ditch Williams in a trade.

Other Options: Mike Lincoln is off the 60-day DL and has eight strikeouts and no walks in his first six innings. Lefty Joe Beimel has a decent 3.60 ERA but a 1.58 WHIP and .290 batting average against. Scott Sauerbeck also remains in the mix, although he had a 5.54 ERA in June.

[Guest]

who would take Mike Williams in a trade? I wouldn't want him anywhere on my pitching staff, whether it be closer, starter, or setup.