The other day I was listening to a guy bemoan the way MLB clubs organize their pitching staffs. Guys slotted exclusively in set up roles, and closers are worth so much money yet they have such short careers in comparison to other pitchers. It got me thinking a little about the golden days of the Orioles. Earl Weaver used whatever bullpen guy was most effective for any given situation. IOW the hottest guy came in to relieve no matter what inning. I guess Tony LaRussa was the guy who changed all of that when he made Eck a closer, strictly a ninth inning guy. Things have definitely changed since Earl’s day.

Anyway, in light of the glorified positions that these specialists now hold, and the problems that many clubs have in filling these slots with established (and healthy) arms, I’m wondering why more managers don’t try and manage their staff the way Earl used to. I’m sure there are good arguments on both sides and I’d like to hear ‘em.

i think alot of this has to do with the closer being the best relieve pitcher on the team. Tony LaRussa, even when Isringhausen blows a save or two Larussa will stick with him, he is the cards best releiver hands down.

look at the Dodgers, everyone says that the hard throwing Broxton is the next big closer. yet when Broxton is called on instead of Siato, broxton gets lit up. The closer role is all about good pitchers handling pressure and only a few do it well.