Arizona Diamondbacks Spring Training Roster Report: Relief Pitchers

CLOSER

Feb 19, 2014; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher

poses for a portrait during photo day at Salt River Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Addison Reed

Reed comes over from the Chicago White Sox to become the Diamondbacks closer, after posting a solid 5-4 record with a 3.79 ERA and 40 saves. The Diamondbacks wouldn’t be happy with an ERA that high, but Reed is just 25 years old and has shown signs of improvement over the last two seasons.

Addison allowed just 56 hits in 71.1 innings and while his walk rate of 2.9 per-nine innings is higher than he’d like, his strikeout rate of 9.1 is solid and his WHIP of 1.107 would make the Diamondback’s front office extremely happy.

Having experienced closer(s) behind Reed can play out two ways. Hopefully, Diamondbacks manager Kirk Gibson gives Reed a long leash to help keep his confidence high. As a closer — especially a young closer — if you’re looking over your shoulder every game, you’re probably going to fail.