Borowski heads to the DL and is probably out as the closer forever. Hallelujah! So now that the Indians have finally realized throwing an 82 MPH fastball probably isn’t the best way to close games, who takes over for Joe Borowski? It’s probably going to be Rafael Betancourt then possibly Rafael Perez, Masahide Kobayashi, Jorge Julio and/or Jensen Lewis. A quick look at these guys and the order I see them taking over for Borowski:
Rafael Betancourt – Has struggled so far this year with a 5.14 ERA and 1.71 WHIP. But he’s first in line.
Rafael Perez – Was nasty last year — lefties (.145) or righties (.213). This year he’s had one bad game to account for his inflated ERA. In leagues where Betancourt was already taken, I’ve grabbed Perez.
Masahide Kobayashi – One of two guys in the bullpen with extensive closing experience, but his was in Japan. I think he could easily become the closer if Betancourt falters.
Jorge Julio – His experience comes in the majors, but some of his closing experience would’ve made Borowski seem safe.
Jensen Lewis – Everyone would have to falter in front of him but he strikes me as a long man.
So there you have it, Borowski’s gone-zo and now it’s Betancourt/Perez/Kobayashi/Julio/Lewis’s chance (although tonight it won’t be Betancourt because he’s pitched two days in a row). This is a long way from decided still.
