MAYBE you feel like a putz because you spent a high draft pick on a closer such as J.J. Putz. Well, that’s what you get for using a high draft pick on a one-category contributor. But that’s a lesson for another day.
In the meantime, don’t fret, it’s not the end of the world. Putz will return, eventually. The bad news is there’s no timetable for his return. The worse news is there’s no single reliever who will absorb the Mariners’ closing duties. Instead, the team will platoon the stopper role, likely between Miguel Batista, Mark Lowe, Sean Green and/or Eric O’Flaherty.
In other words, manager John McLaren is trying to do with his closers what Denver Broncos coach Mike Shanahan does with running backs – keep fantasy owners guessing.
Let’s make the call to the bullpen and see what other news there is to throw around.
Eric Gagne, Brewers – Do scoreboard operators wait for Gagne to throw a pitch these days, or do they just automatically punch in a 3-spot for the opposing team? It’s hard to believe he will be reliable in the future. Your friendly neighborhood Roto Files says the Derrick Turnbow watch has begun.
Kerry Wood, Cubs – Despite his Opening Day struggles, we’re not as concerned about Wood’s day-to-day performance. We think, when healthy, Wood will provide solid relief for your fantasy bullpen. How long he will stay healthy is the big question. So far, so good. But when, er, if he gets sidelined by any one of a variety of ailments – think elbow, knee, shoulder, cuticle – Carlos Marmol will be a worthy substitute.
B.J. Ryan, Blue Jays – Ryan is slated to return in the next week or so, but don’t expect the Jays to rush him back into his full-time closing role. Besides, Ryan may not be able to pitch on back-to-back days. Expect Jeremy Accardo to continue to get some closing opportunities.
Brad Lidge, Phillies – Was due to come off the disabled list yesterday and replace the ineffective Tom Gordon as the stopper. We’re as eager as the next guy to see what Lidge has left. Brian Sanches is a name to keep an eye on, if Lidge or Gordon can’t get it done.
dloftis@nypost.com