Milwaukee Brewers Back-Up Closer

Assuming the position - JSOnline:
"Carlos Villanueva once again is a leading candidate to fill in for injured Milwaukee Brewers closer Trevor Hoffman.
So decreed manager Ken Macha on Saturday.
When Villanueva struggled in the early stages of exhibition play, Macha had concerns about his effectiveness in any relief role. But Villanueva has rebounded of late with a pair of strong outings, and if Hoffman opens the season on the disabled list as expected with an oblique strain, that role could go to 'Villa.'
'That was kind of the plan until he wasn't getting anybody out,' said Macha. 'Now, that's back-to-back good outings for him.'"

Peter Gammons: AL East becoming a pitching division - ESPN

Peter Gammons: AL East becoming a pitching division - ESPN:

"The Tigers are again facing physical questions with Jeremy Bonderman and Joel Zumaya, and the staff is very serious about seeing if Rick Porcello can make the jump from Lakeland to Detroit."

Baseball Prospectus | On the Beat: Settling In

Baseball Prospectus | On the Beat: Settling In:

"... Rookie right-hander Jason Motte is emerging as the Cardinals' likely closer when the season begins. ... Josh Anderson has become the frontrunner to be the Braves' center fielder."