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On Sunday afternoon, the Chicago Tribune reported that Lou Piniella has named Kevin Gregg as the closer for 2009.

For two years, Marmol has been lights out in the setup role and looked like a shoo-in for the Cubs closer role in the future. Kevin Gregg, on the other hand, has pitched well, but doesn't have nearly the talent that Marmol has.

Most people are surprised with this decision, as the closer battle in Spring Training seemed more like a token contest rather than an actual competition for the role.

Washington Nationals 2009 Preview

The biggest signing during the 2008 offseason was Adam Dunn. Dunn had been phenomenal throughout the World Baseball Classic, but will he provide enough offense to a lineup that struggled so mightily in 2008? Most likely not.

The Nationals also acquired Josh Willingham (trade, Marlins), Daniel Cabrera (Free Agency), and Scott Olson (trade, Marlins), which should help their depth problem going into 2009.

The Chicago Tribune reported on Sunday afternoon that Chicago Cubs Manager Lou Piniella has formally chosen Kevin Gregg as his closer to start the 2009 season.

This leaves Carlos Marmol as the setup man, a role in which he earned a trip to the All-Star Game last season.

Gregg was acquired in a trade for pitching prospect Jose Ceda earlier this winter, and has had a dominating spring camp in Arizona. In nine games, Gregg has 8.1 innings pitched, one win, ten strikeouts and zero earned runs allowed added to no losses and just two walks.

When I think of the perfect baseball player, I envision a guy who goes out there every day, plays his best, and most of all, does it just for the love of the game. Names like Willie Mays and Cal Ripken, Jr. come to mind.

These were guys who were icons for the sport during their career. They led their respective teams to World Championships, became a fixture on All-Star teams, and were among the best in the game in both their offense and defense.

The New York Mets open up the season on the road April 6th against the Cincinatti Reds.  They play three games in Cincinnati and then a three game set with the Marlins in Miami.  Then they arrive at their new home to face the San Diego Padres for the their long awaited opener. 

Strange currents of economy, ownership, and agents are creating an interesting year for 2009. The National League West is highly impacted by a shaky economy and changing ownerships. 

Jeff Moorad leaving the D-backs to be the new owner of the Padres is a change of strategy for both franchises. Dodger owner Frank McCourt’s comments recently revealed his heavy hand in GM Ned Colletti’s choices of players, relieving Neddy of some of the blame.

Enough is enough. There have been as many Mets and Phillies articles as there are children of Brad and Angelina.

They multiply everyday (the kids and the articles).

So why don't we end this now? This rambling about who has the better bullpen, closer, infielders, fans, and clubhouse carpets has to stop.

I thought about how we could stop this finally came upon an idea sometime last week. What better way is there to end a disagreement, or clear some of the air up, than a debate?

by Derek of The Sportmeisters

The Sportmeisters Fantasy Guru, Derek, updates his top Outfielders for 2009, including auction values and new projections.

by Derek of The Sportmeisters

The Sportmeisters Fantasy Guru, Derek, updates his top third basemen for 2009, including auction values and new projections.