replacement for Joe nathan's closer role?

[Devilzsidewalk]

http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins ... anchO7DiUr

I like Crain or maybe even Liriano. Didn't Liriano start his Twins career in the pen?

I don't like some expensive outside option because I think Crain can be good.

[Worm Guts]

I think I'd go closer by committee. I used to think Crain could be a good closer, but I've lost faith in him.

[links]

I get pretty nervous every time Crain comes in to the game. If healthy and back to form I think Neshek would be the best option. If not I agree, go closer by committee until someone shows they can do the job. I think come July if nothing is figured out, then look to trade for a closer from a team that is clearly out of it.

[Klomp]

Its official, Nathan out for the year. Best bet for replacement is Rauch or Guerrier, me thinks...

[Narf]

Gotta see where people are. Pat Neshek would be a name that might come to form just in time to be our closer. But that's a long shot. Guerrier can be solid, if he's not overworked until he gets dead arm. But he's also a long shot. Liriano certainly has the "stuff", but he's more valuable as a starter if he's actually back to sub 3.5 ERA form. And that leaves a lot of people who were competing for a starters job who could fill the spot...maybe. Swarzak for instance. Or maybe we sign John Smoltz. Or the old favorite Jesse Crain, if he actually pulls it together.

I don't think it will be closer by committee, more likely they go with one guy and if he can't hack it go with another. That's Gardenhire's way.

[Klomp]

So far, so good....