Madson Injury Leaves Gaping Hole in Reds' Bullpen

When the Cincinnati Reds signed closer Ryan Madson to a one-year deal for $8.5 million, many people applauded the savvy bargain move. Last season, Madson saved 32 games in 34 chances for the Philadelphia Phillies. The Reds were banking on that consistency. Unfortunately, Madson tore a ligament in his right elbow and has been declared out for the season. The Reds have announced they will look at options internally to fill the now vacated closer role.

Sean Marshall has become the front-runner for the position. Marshall was acquired from the Chicago Cubs last December. While he has a lot of veteran bullpen experience, he has limited closing experience. Marshall might be the safest bet for the Reds. The intriguing option is young gun Aroldis Chapman. The 24 year-old from Cuba has been groomed for the starting rotation so far this Spring Training. However, he has the explosive velocity and control to become a dominating closer. GM Walt Jocketty and the front office have been pushing for Chapman to be in the rotation since his signing, but it is commonly known that manager Dusty Baker thinks Chapman would be best suited for bullpen work. The only other option the Reds seem to have internally is Nick Masset. Massett had a good season last year, but his inconsistency makes him an unlikely choice to become the team's closer.

Well the Reds have a big decision on their hands. The Reds gave Chapman a big contract for a reason. Now, they have to decide whether he should become a starter or a closer. Being a Yankees fan, I know how difficult a decision this can be. Joba Chamberlain and Phil Hughes have gone through the same debate. The Reds need to consider more than Chapman though. They have to consider all of their rotation options. They must decide what is best for the team as a whole. It will be interesting to see what the Reds decide to do. Hopefully, Ryan Madson will make a full recovery from Tommy John surgery.