BaseballHQ.com

The San Diego bullpen in its current state (Street on the DL) was profiled just a few days ago, but there is another member of the pen that could surprisingly play a prominent role. Manager Bud Black indicated over the weekend that any of Andrew Cashner, Luke Gregerson, or Dale Thayer could be used to close out games. On May 6, Gregerson pitched the seventh inning of a tie game, and Cashner the eighth, meaning neither were going to be called upon to get the save. The next day, when a save situation presented itself, Thayer got the call, and preserved the victory with a perfect inning.

After being almost no-hit for the second time in a week, one had to figure that the Minnesota Twins would make some changes. And change they will, bringing in a new shortstop. But not all are of their choosing, as DH Justin Morneau is headed to the DL. Meanwhile, SP Liam Hendricks is reportedly heading to the minors to work out his early season struggles. Who will fill the voids, and how might they fare?

With Carlos Marmol (RHP, CHC) and Hector Santiago (LHP, CHW) banished from their erstwhile closer roles, Rafael Dolis (RHP, CHC) and Chris Sale (LHP, CHW) are now in line for saves. Each new Chicago closer, however, could split saves with other relievers. James Russell (LHP, CHC) has been named as a potential situational substitute for Dolis, while reports of elbow tenderness could limit Sale's availability.

Kevin Youkilis (3B, BOS) was due to sit out his fourth consecutive game with back problems on Wednesday, and word out of Boston was that his back pains were "only intensifying, not abating." Then, he was placed on the DL and prospect Will Middlebrooks was called up from AAA-Pawtucket and made the start Wednesday night.