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The Yankees' closer dilemma

May 23rd, 2012 12:34 AM
  • The-Yankees-closer-dilemma
  • Credit: US PRESSWIRE

    • There’s no doubt that the season-ending injury to Yankees closer Mariano Rivera was devastating for morale, but at the time the team could still rest easy knowing that they had the best setup man in baseball and Rivera’s heir-apparent ready to take over in David Robertson. And even then, there was a question as to whether or not Robertson would share time with fellow reliever Rafael Soriano, who had led the majors with 45 saves in 2010 before signing with New York the following season.

    However, after Robertson struggled in his second save situation by allowing his first four earned runs of the season in a blown save against the Rays, he was placed on the DL with an abdominal injury. That put Soriano front and center, and he has seized the opportunity with three straight converted saves, including one on Tuesday night in which he preserved a 3-2 lead over the Royals.

    Now with Robertson slated to start a rehab assignment later this week, the Yanks could have a decision on their hands when he comes back (perhaps as early as the end of next week). While Robertson has proven himself to be the more effective setup man, he is unproven in the 9th inning and Soriano is the one who has a history of success as a closer. By keeping him in that role and sending Robertson back to the 8th inning, the Yanks might just be maximizing each player’s value.

    This was Rafael Soriano’s first true test as the Yankees closer — because his first two save attempts were nothing like the assignment handed to him last night.

    Read the original post from nypost.com

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    Mariano Rivera Is Having a True Hero's Exit

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      Greatest relief pitcher EVER! Someday we can all tell our grandchildren we got to see him pitch. A true legend!

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      Great tribute to a great player, a great Yankee, and a great man.Thank you!

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