Earlier today White Sox manager made a surprising announcement-presumed closer Nate Jones would not be finishing games off for the Pale Hose to start the 2014 season--Matt Lindstrom will be the finisher instead.
Overall across all platforms Jones has been the 27th relief pitcher off the board, while Lindstrom was a total afterthought (80th RP taken, ADP of 514). So what's the impact here beyond rising blood pressure among Jones owners? Let's dive into what Lindstrom brings to the table.
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First off, he's an "experienced" closer, which drives me up a wall in the sense that just about any talented pitcher can execute when he's brought in to pitch one inning with the bases empty. That said, Lindstrom's performed as a closer before with varying degrees of effectiveness.
He was yo-yo'd in and out of the closer spot for the Marlins earlier in his career, then performed well in Colorado with 23 saves and six blown in 2010. He scuffled in 2011, saving two and coughing up three leads and hasn't done much since.
Most recently, he pitched fairly well in Chicago last year, posting a 3.12 ERA and recording 20 holds. He rose to the majors as a pure fireballer, but as his career's gone forward he's seen a bit of a decrease in velocity, and a bigger drop in his K/9. Overall, he's a decent option as closer-the question is whether he's an upgrade over Jones.
The short answer is no. Ventura looks like he may have outsmarted himself here, and made a call based on the myth of "experienced closers," and Jones' inflated 2013 ERA. A look at Jones' FIP reveals he wasn't too lucky in the ERA department; his FIP was a 2.69, while his ERA an un-closer like 4.15. He struck out nearly four more batters per nine than Lindstrom, while actually throwing slightly harder with a bit larger of an arsenal.
The impact here is huge for those who read this article first. Getting to Lindstrom means you've snagged yourself a closer for free on Day 1 of the season, while other owners potentially wasted their pick.
If you get Lindstrom though be vigilant of other situations, and if you have Jones don't be in such a rush to drop him. Lindstrom's security likely isn't too strong, and it's perfectly within reason to think Jones may steal the role back by April. For now though, run and get Lindstrom.
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