Neftali Feliz

[ksenor]

It is looking like Nefi will be put in the bullpen to start the season. Any projections on possible Holds?

Is this the type of pitcher that could be a good middle reliever fantasy-wise with the high Ks?

[Todd Zola]

Not skirting the question, but it is difficult enough to project holds for pitchers with a history in the role, let alone someone new to the role -- no way of knowing his usage.

But a big, fat yes on the second, which intuitively suggests he will be used in meaningful games leading to holds.

[ksenor]

Yeah I know. Especially when there is no telling how he will be used in the pen. Sounds like they are going to let Oliver setup for now.

I tend to look for solid RPs that will help in the pitching categories and just hope the Holds fall into place.

[lawr]

i would expect nefi will get plenty of work. and, i have said all along, i think by the end of the year he will be the closer.

i know he can start, but, let's face it, any team would love to have a dominant 100 mph-plus closer who can throw strikes.

and, the rotation is pretty well set without him, so i see oliver spotting against lefties and feliz getting the work. if he hangs, and there is an opening, bye bye franky frank, the chair thrower...

[ksenor]

I really hope that is the way they go with Nefi as a Ranger fan. The kid could be a dominate closer for many years.

Oh come one, that was one of franky's shining moments in Oaktown.