Hey guys, closer question

Mike Olbinski

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I just drafted Matt Mantei in my fantasy league, and I already have Gagne, so I wasn't looking for a top notch closer.

But after I picked him, some jerk in my league tells me that I'm going to need "the other half" in Valverde.

Well, isn't Matt the closer unless he gets hurt? I mean, most places on the net are saying he's our closer, should get 30 saves.

Thoughts?

Mike
 

AZCB34

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First, classic avatar. Hilarious.

On to the closer question. I think Mantei is the man Brenly will go to to close out games more often than not. I big question of course is can Mantei stay healthy. If he can, he will be the primary closer with Villareal spelling him when Matt pitches several in a row.

Personally, I wouldn't make a move until Mantei actually goes down...unless of course you have a roster spot that is sitting there not being used.
 

Billium2000

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I think Mantei is the No. 1 closer... at least until someone desperately needs a closer right before the trade deadline and is willing to take the majority of his large salary off the D'Backs' hands. And if that team is willing to give up a somewhat decent pitcher in a trade Mantei will be gone in a flash since one of the 3-5 starters will probably have crapped out by midseason.
 
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Mike Olbinski

Mike Olbinski

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Originally posted by Billium2000
I think Mantei is the No. 1 closer... at least until someone desperately needs a closer right before the trade deadline and is willing to take the majority of his large salary off the D'Backs' hands. And if that team is willing to give up a somewhat decent pitcher in a trade Mantei will be gone in a flash since one of the 3-5 starters will probably have crapped out by midseason.

Yeah, but if someone does take Mantei, he might be playing closer for that team too, meaning he's still not a bad option...as long as he stays healthy.

Which can be said about almost anyone in the league.

Thanks guys,

Mike
 

Gee!

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There are alot of teams interested in Mantie. Cubs being one of them. Most teams are gonna wait till the deadline and see if they are in contention. I would say Matt is most likely traded this season barring any injuries.
 

KingLouieLouie

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I have a feeling that Brenly will "ride the closer with the hot hand" (lord I despise that cliche, but couldnt think of anything better), similar to what he did last-year.....

With the Dbacks having 12-pitchers on their roster (and a BP that might be over-extended especially if Dessens still lacks stamina, Johnson hasnt returned back to pre '03 form, and with Reynolds and Sparks rounding out the rotation who both average 6 innings per start), you'll see Villarreal, Koplove, Randolph, and whatever set-up men they have out there on a nightly basis...

So that signifies a balance of opportunities for both Valverde and Mantei to gain saves....Wouldnt be shocked if Valverde somehow manages to earn 15 saves himsel.....

I dont know if many leagues use "Holds" on a category, but Valverde would be perfect for that stat if they did.
 
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