Cincinnati Reds may use the setup man Jonathan Broxton as backup closer – MLB News
The Cincinnati Reds' manager Dusty Baker on Wednesday, August 1, said that the club may use both Aroldis Chapman and Jonathan Broxton as closers. Even though the newly acquired pitcher Broxton is supposed to have a setup man role, he now stands bright chances to pitch as a closer as well.
Broxton’s first spell on Wednesday remained a treat to watch for the Reds' fans as he dominated the San Diego Padres’ hitters, helping the team win the game 6-4. Dusty Baker is obviously quite pleased with the arrival of Broxton and the fact that both Chapman and Broxton are doing an extraordinarily good job.
"Boy, it sure is nice to have both of them in there, especially throwing strikes," said Reds' manager Dusty Baker. "It gives us some more strength and a power arm in the bullpen."
Broxton was traded from the Kansas City Royals, a team which has a record of 42-60. For all the right reasons, Broxton’s decision to okay the trade for Reds is a wise move. Having won 19 of their last 22 games, the Reds seem unbeatable as they sit atop the National League Central ranking.
Broxton hoped that he would fit in and continue to win games for the Reds as the bullpen continues to function strongly, bolstering the defence to a considerable extent.
"We started looking at some numbers last night and [the Reds are] putting up some impressive numbers," Broxton said. "I've just got to continue to go out there on a day-by-day basis and continue to work hard and get better each day. They have a great ballclub here and a real good pitching staff, so hopefully I can fit in and continue to win games here."
Of both the American and National League teams, it is now the Cincinnati Reds which have won most games with 63. New York Yankees top the American League with 61 followed by the Texas Rangers with 60 wins.
The Reds now seem all poised to do the much-anticipated, which is to qualify for the playoffs. If the club performs with same consistency, they will certainly be a World-Series winner in-the-making.
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