Is Rafael Soriano going to get the saves?

[Mission 27]

Do you guys think that Rafael Soriano will jump back into the closer role? Or is Smoltz going to be the closer?

[PureBaseballFan]

Do you guys think that Rafael Soriano will jump back into the closer role? Or is Smoltz going to be the closer?

Smoltz won't be back for a week most likely and Soriano will get the job till then.

I would expect something similar to what the Yankees did with Joba last year. I could easily see Soriano, Smoltz and even Gonzalez might get some saves later in the season. I expect Smoltz will get the majority of the saves but Soriano and Gonzalez may get 5 each or close to that.

[Extra Innings]

Smoltz won't be back for a week most likely and Soriano will get the job till then.

I would expect something similar to what the Yankees did with Joba last year. I could easily see Soriano, Smoltz and even Gonzalez might get some saves later in the season. I expect Smoltz will get the majority of the saves but Soriano and Gonzalez may get 5 each or close to that.

Agreed. When Smoltz returns he will be the closer, but the Braves will probably use Soriano and Gonzo to help preserve Smoltz as the season rolls on.

[Pere]

I sure hope Smoltz is used for more than the one-inning "gimme" saves.

EDIT: And I hope he's able to be...

[chip&smoltz95]

A little rust tonight I hope.... I don't think smoltz will be available on back to back days for a while or maybe even the whole season, from what I have read. I think soriano or gonzo will be used in these situations, depending on who is due up.

[Extra Innings]

A little rust tonight I hope.... I don't think smoltz will be available on back to back days for a while or maybe even the whole season, from what I have read. I think soriano or gonzo will be used in these situations, depending on who is due up.

Yea, I'm not expecting Smoltz to be lights out ala 2004. He will do good in the role, but it would be better for the Braves to use Soriano/Gonzo in back2backs. I don't see the team overusing Smoltz because of the other guys that can close.

[rodneykesler]

Yeah, John boy was a bit rusty last night, but Bobby will give him plenty of chances to close. However, with his shoulder the way it is, I wouldn't be shocked to see Soriano get the bulk of the saves. It probably would be a good idea to give John the rest so he doesn't blow his arm up completely.