Smoltz a SP, Who's Atl's Closer

[Fireball Express]

I just read on Rotowire that the Braves probably won't re-sign Ortiz and Wright. They say that Smoltz will move back into the rotation as a result. So the question at hand is who is the new Atlanta Closer?

[Madison]

I'm hearing the same things. Oritz and Wright are going to be out of Atlanta's price range from what I'm hearing.

IF Smoltz becomes a starter, and I stress "IF", then I'd say they sign a free agent closer.

[raiders_umpire]

I'm hearing the same things. Oritz and Wright are going to be out of Atlanta's price range from what I'm hearing.

IF Smoltz becomes a starter, and I stress "IF", then I'd say they sign a free agent closer.

i am hearing the same things, but i also heard that smoltz would get around 3-4 million dollars more this year if he started???? does anybody know this for sure, cause if it is then the braves would be crazy to let him start and save that money on a average #5 pitcher that could eat up innings..........

[Amazinz]

According to Dugout Dollars, Smoltz had a $12M option for 2005 and a clause that gives him $100K for each GS.

[Absolutely Adequate]

What's wrong with Reitsma?

He'd be my choice.

[stumpak]

What's wrong with Reitsma is that he sucks. Over the last two years he has a 1.35 WHIP, with 90+% of those innings working as a short reliever. That is just a reprehensible number for a closer--he has a worse resume than Herges did going in last season. Given all of the other holes the Braves have, I have a tough time believing that they will be giving the rock to a bum like Reitsma in the 9th. If I am the Braves, I would at least role the dice with a guy like Cruz and take the possibility that a competent closer could emerge rather than going with a known medicority like Reitsma.

[Absolutely Adequate]

Maybe, but he does have a 3/1 k/bb ratio and Leo Mazzone.

Cruz seems like he could handle the role, if he can adjust from longer relief to the closer mindset.

I just don't think the Braves will go out and get a FA closer. Maybe they'll rob the Tigers of UU, but I don't see them going the FA route.

[Zito is God]

I think Cruz can handle it, but they can always trade for cheap mediocre pitching, I always wanted someone to trade for Farnsworth and give him a chance to close.

[stumpak]

I agree that UU is most likely if they make a trade.

Other options may be Julio since he apparantly lost his job, although he sucks as well, or Wickman, if he decides to play another year.

Personally, I think Wickman would the most cost-effective/best-value option among those considering that he is an FA who would not cost a whole ton.

[Pogotheostrich]

I agree that UU is most likely if they make a trade.

Other options may be Julio since he apparantly lost his job, although he sucks as well, or Wickman, if he decides to play another year.

Personally, I think Wickman would the most cost-effective/best-value option among those considering that he is an FA who would not cost a whole ton.

Wickman signed with the Indians earlier today. I think the Braves will go with Cruz.