Matt Lindstrom: It looks like Brandon Lyon will be the Astros’ closer for the rest of this year, but Lindstrom will have a chance next spring to reclaim the job. Although his walks are on the high side, 3.6 BB/9, his strike out/ground ball package, 7.5 K/9 and a 53% GB%, is enough to make him a serviceable closer. If the Astros are not looking to upgrade this off-season, Lindstrom could be an effective lower-tier closer.
Ricky Nolasco: Nolasco should be fully recovered from his knee surgery and ready to go by the beginning of spring training. Over the past two seasons, his outstanding skills, 2009/2010 K/9/’s 9.5/8/4 and BB/9’s 2.1/1.9, have translated into wins but also a high ERA, 2009/2010 wins’ 13/14 and ERA’s 5.06/4.51. He has suffered an elevated BHIP% and HR/FB% both years, but as his strand rate normalized, his ERA improved by a half-run, 2009/2010 BHIP%’s .315/3.10, HR/FB%’s 11%/12%, S%’s 61%/69%. He turns 28 years of age in December, so he is right in the middle of his prime years, if healthy and with some better luck, 2011 could be a big year for Nolasco.
Tommy Manzella: Manzella will split time with several others as an audition for playing time in 2011. Just by looking at his offensive numbers, 1/18/.219 with 0 steals in 224 AB, and skills, 5% BB% and a 71% Ct%, you know Manzella has to have a great glove. It is doubtful that he will ever hit enough to be a regular.
Angel Sanchez: Sanchez is one of several players in the mix for playing time with the Astros next year as a middle infielder. Injuries have given him a chance to play this year, with some not-so-impressive results, 0/18/.275 with 0 steals in 200 AB. For someone with so little power, just 8 doubles to go with zero HR, Sanchez will need a better approach at the plate, 4% BB% and an 83% Ct%, rate for consistent success, as he will not always be able to rely on an inflated .277 BHIP% just to break the .270 BA barrier. He could make himself more valuable if he learned to use his speed, 4 triples this year but he hasn’t even attempted a SB, but that doesn’t look like it is happening any time soon.
Craig Kimbrel: The Braves recalled the 22 year-old Kimbrel from Triple-A, where he was putting up great numbers, 1.71 ERA in 52.2 relief innings, with outstanding dominance, 13.3 K/9, but shaky control, 5.8 BB/9. In an earlier audition with the Braves this year he allowed just 1 ER in 9.1 innings and fanned an incredible 17 batters, but he also walked 11 hitters. He looks like a future closer, but his control struggles makes him one to avoid at this time.
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