The closer role is perhaps the most difficult job in major league baseball. If not the most difficult, it surely is the most highly scrutinized and insecure position on any team.
Before two weeks of the 2010 regular season had passed, four teams had already changed pitchers filling this important role. Looking around the league, it is possible that these are just the first amongst other similar moves by teams that do not have the luxury of calling on Mariano Rivera.
In Baltimore, big free-agent acquisition Mike Gonzalez hit heavy turbulence blowing two saves in three chances before being placed on the DL for shoulder stiffness. He was replaced by Jim Johnson, who filled the role late last season after the Orioles traded George Sherrill.
Similarly, Angels lefty Brian Fuentes was placed on the 15-day disabled list and replaced by Fernando Rodney.
Injuries did not play a role in Texas and Toronto where each team's struggling closer was quickly demoted. Former Marlins and Cubs closer Kevin Gregg took over for young Jason Fraser, while flame throwing right-hander Neftali Feliz was handed the assignment previously held by Frank Francisco.
Besides the four aforementioned teams, within the near future, at least ten other clubs could conceivably change the name they call to nail down a victory. Here are those clubs and the odds they will make a switch.
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