Joe Nathan to Close

[catman]

The Rangers signed Joe Nathan to a 2 year deal with an option year. He'll close for them and Neftali Feliz will move into the rotation.
Not sure I like this idea, as Feliz has been very good as a closer. He'll need to develop another pitch to keep hitters off-balance.

[RickD]

How much of an upgrade is Joe Nathan really

[WilsonC]

How much of an upgrade is Joe Nathan really

It's not about Nathan being an upgrade - rather, it's about aiming for a wash and asking how much of an upgrade Feliz is in the rotation (especially if C.J. Wilson signs elsewhere). One thing to keep in mind is that this is an organization that's shown a great deal of proficiency at shifting guys from the bullpen into the rotation - C.J. Wilson and Alexei Ogando were both short relievers for Texas before starting, and Matt Harrison spent more time in the pen that the rotation in 2010 before becoming a full-time starter. If they think Feliz is ready to become a starter, their track record speaks well for his chance of success.

[RickD]

Thanks Man. Makes sense.

I think the team doesn't need huge tweaks to win the World Series so hopefully they can get Wilson back and move to the next level!

[Mickey Mental]

So if Wilson signs elsewhere, does Nathan get to wear #36?

Good move....I was kind of hoping the Red Sox would take a shot at him. Two year deal for $14 million plus an option.