Open arms

Sporting News, The, July 22, 2002 by Bob McCullough

From starter to reliever or vice versa--it's never easy, but some pitchers embrace the change.

1. Derek Lowe, RHP, Red Sox. He might have been the A.L.'s best starter in the first half after being an elite closer two years ago. Endurance will be an issue, but there are a lot of clubs that probably could have had Lowe for a song last summer and are kicking themselves now.

2. John Smoltz, RHP, Braves. How many more rings would Glavine, Maddux & Co. have if the Braves had made Smoltz a closer after Mark Wohlers' World Series meltdown in 1996?

3. ERIC GAGNE, RHP, Dodgers. His inconsistency as a starter was maddening, but he has been dominant as a closer. The new role seems to have improved his focus and brought out the bulldog in him.

4. Mike Williams, RHP, Pirates. The Phillies desperately tried to make Williams part of their rotation before he finally became a closer for the Pirates. This probably is his career year, but any pitcher who almost single-handedly can help Pittsburgh spend time anywhere near the top of the division deserves praise.

5. Jason Isringhausen, RHP, Cardinals. He was one of the starters who was supposed to lead the Mets to glory in the late 1990s, then he surfaced as a closer for the A's two years ago. Injuries have taken away his ability to be overpowering, but given the depth of the Cardinals' bullpen, he doesn't have to.

6. Kelvim Escobar, RHP, Blue Jays. He has had success as a starter and a closer despite problems with inconsistency and confidence that belie his formidable talent. He has been on the trading block for the better part of this year, and some possible suitors want to make him a starter again. If one of them can get into his head and find the right role, Escobar will be a steal.--Bob McCullough