BJ Ryan Loses Closing Job

May 12, 2009 · Paul Raymond · Jump to comments

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Another American League East closer has lost his job, just temporarily thou. This time its injured Toronto Blue Jays closer B.J. Ryan. Ryan is just about ready to come off the disabled list after suffering a left trapezius injury. Unfortunately for him his replacement Scott Downs has performed admirably in the role and has helped to keep the Blue Jays in first place.

“I think B.J. understands that at this point,” Toronto general manager J.P. Ricciardi told the Toronto Globe and Mail. “One thing about B.J. that you respect is the fact that he wants to win. I think right now with Downs doing such a good job and the club being comfortable in that role I don’t think it’s a role right now that’s open … Ultimately I think B.J. will get back to being a closer at some point but I think right now Downs has got the role. Tough to argue with the club playing so well.”

There is no official date for Ryan’s return, just that it will occur during the teams current homestand. I have to say Ricciardi is making the right decision by not letting Ryan take his customary role back. At the time of his injury Ryan’s era stood at 11.12 with two saves and two blown saves in six appearances, giving up eight hits and five walks.

With that kind of control I wouldn’t trust him closing out the game for a team clearly in the hunt. Downs has been pretty damn solid sporting a 2.20 era over 15 appearances, with three saves and striking out 20.

In my opinion, the eighth inning would be a good spot for Ryan upon his return. It would give him the chance to work on improving his mechanics within pressure situations. If he does well, then he’d show he’s ready for his closing job back. A job he could instantly earn back should Downs get hurt or struggle.

Honestly, I think even if Downs doesn’t struggle he’ll lose the job. Ryan’s making $10 million per season and is too talented to not be in the closers role. If he proves he can once again handle the role, it will be his. Remember just nine days ago the Baltimore Orioles demoted George Sherrill from his closers role. Since then he’s gotten both save opportunities and performed much better.

The only thing perplexing to me here is why Ricciardi is saying what Ryan’s role with the team will be. Did manager Cito Gaston have any say in this? Or do the Blue Jays feel better having their general manager address the media then the veteran coach?

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