Monday, March 21, 2011

Matt Thornton named White Sox closer

ESPNChicago - Chicago White Sox pitcher Matt Thornton is having a nice little spring, adding the closer job to the contract extension he signed a few weeks ago.
Manager Ozzie Guillen announced after Saturday's game against the Oakland Athletics, that Thornton would be his man for the ninth inning of games when the White Sox were in the lead. Thornton did not pitch Saturday.
"I think Matt Thornton earned it," Guillen said. "I think we have a lot of confidence [in him]."
Chris Sale was the last reliever in the running for the role, but has struggled with a 6.48 ERA over 8 1/3 innings. Thornton has a 3.00 ERA over six innings this spring.

I was pulling for Sale to win the closer job, but he has struggled this spring and it is hard to argue against going with the experience and track record of Matt Thornton.  He has been good against both righties and lefties and has been very consistent over the last 3 years.  He has really earned his chance to be the closer.

PS - Does this solidify the Joe Borchard for Matt Thornton trade as Kenny's biggest heist?

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