More bad news for the Dodgers – dominant closer Takashi Saito will miss at least six weeks with an elbow ligament sprain. Here’s what GM Ned Colletti had to say:
"We’ll get together with Joe and come up with a plan. Obviously, it is not easy replacing someone like him. As far as trading for a closer, its a lot like trying to acquire a shortstop – it’s a premium position and most teams don’t carry an excess. We also have candidates within the staff. Many times closers are discovered in times like this."
Colletti seems to be saying that he will take a look at the market for closers and shortstops, but can’t guarantee an acquisition. Closers are easier to find than shortstops, though they often come with inflated prices midseason. Possibilities: George Sherrill, Jose Valverde, Trevor Hoffman, Jon Rauch, Huston Street, Brian Fuentes, and Damaso Marte.
The Dodgers have solid-looking internal options though, and if those relievers struggle they could always try Brad Penny in the role if he comes back in a few weeks. Just speculating.
