Betancourt and Wickman

[EK711]

Rotoworld says this about Riske:

David Riske - R - Indians May. 7 - 7:58 am et


David Riske pitched a scoreless ninth innning last night against Boston.
It was a non-save situation as the Indians were losing 5-2 at the time, but Riske did not allow a hit and struck out two batters. He seems to be improving, but it may be another week or so until he is ready to resume closing duties in Cleveland. Be patient.



Is this just Rotoworld talking without really knowing what's going on? Or is Riske really on a temporary leave from the position? I can't imagine replacing Betancourt until he at least blows a save, he has looked outstanding so far.

I keep saying this a lot, but Riske is a good pitcher who just really has struggled loads this year. The Indians as an organization love the kid and he was pegged last year as the Cleveland closer of the future. I know one year is not much to go on, but his numbers last year were up there with many of the best setup men in the league. Does that mean he'll translate into a good closer? Not necessarily, but Wedge and the upper managment think so. Mark my words, once he rights himself he will get another shot at closing.

[john gardner]

I'm think wickman's back when I see him back. the Jiminez angle sounds like a good tip.

[mtarail]

It seems like it's a whole heck of a lot easier to pitch in the 9th when you know that you're not the person that everyone EXPECTS to finish the game.

As long as Betancourt can get the job done I have know idea why they'd reinsert Riske into the closer role. (Of course, it wouldn't be the first time that I didn't understand why a ballclub made a strange decision.)