1. Jonathan Broxton – Dodgers
2. Heath Bell – Padres
3. Brian Wilson – Giants
4. Huston Street – Rockies
5. Chad Qualls – Diamondbacks
Broxton really thrust himself into one of the top closers in the game last year. He had 36 saves, pitching 76 innings and blowing away 114 hitters. That’s some scary stuff. His next step will be to finish the year strong, as he’s twice been burned by the Phillies in the playoffs.
Bell quickly and easily made people forget about the mess that was Trevor Hoffman’s departure with a spectacular season. In his first full season as closer, he was 42-for-48 with a 2.71 ERA. So of course, playing in San Diego and being good means he’ll be the subject of trade rumors as the season wears on.
Wilson quieted a lot of critics with a very good season. He had 41 saves in 2008, but gave up seven homers en route to a 4.62 ERA. But, he settled down last year for 38 saves (though seven blown) for a 2.74 ERA. He was rewarded with a nice two-year, $15 million extension.
Street is currently battling shoulder problems, which should keep him out of action in April. But, he’s proven since his rookie year with Oakland in 2005 that he knows how to slam the door in the ninth. He saved 35 games last year, while only blowing two. The Rockies need him at full health in a competitive division.
Qualls comes in last, but really, he’d be higher up on many lists in other divisions. He was given the full-time closer’s role last year, and responded with 24 saves in 29 chances. A dislocated kneecap forced him to miss the last month of the season, but he looks to be fully recovered.
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