Otsuka:Props + Looking Ahead

[StringerBell]

Major props to Akinori Otsuka

20 Saves 1.98 ERA 0.902 WHP

He became a major cog in keeping me in contention this year when I picked him up as an injury replacement.

This is a bit early,but The question now is:
What are the chances that he`ll be a closer next year?

I`ve got him at a keeper salary. Around what date of 2007 will those decisions be announced?

[Pogotheostrich]

I thought he was a FA after this year?
If so I would think it depends on where he signs.

[MikeYoung4President]

If he's a free agent (anyone know a 2007 Free Agent database, or where a player's contract status can be found?), I think the Rangers will make every effort to keep him. He's proven to be a reliable closer in America as he was in Japan. He was also amazing in SD in 2004 before dropping off a bit in 05. So I think he'll still be closing, and it will still be in Texas.

[MikeYoung4President]

Never mind. He appears to be a FA after the sason, according to mlbcontracts.blogspot.com

But I still think the Rangers re-sign him (for a slight pay raise )