Braves confident with the bullpen ...

[Nemesis21]

Good read


http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-braves-blo ... d-bullpen/

[HMFFL]

Craig Kimbrel will open the 2011 season as the Braves' closer.

He has some big shoes to fill.

[Nemesis21]

I think he and Venters will split the closer role. Have the righty, lefty matchup.

[TSC25]

Craig Kimbrel, rhp Born: May 28, 1988 • B-T: R-R • Ht: 5-11 • Wt: 200
Drafted: Wallace State (Ala.) CC, 2008 (3rd round) • Signed by: Brian Bridges
Background: The Braves selected 10 junior college players in the first 15 rounds of the 2008 draft, starting with Kimbrel in the third round. He signed for $391,000 after turning down $125,000 from Atlanta as a 33rd-round pick a year earlier. He ranked third in the International League with 23 saves and reached the big leagues in his second full pro season. He was dynamic during the pennant race, finishing the year with 12 scoreless big league outings while striking out 23 in 12 innings.

Scouting Report: Kimbrel has averaged 14.8 strikeouts per nine innings as a pro, thanks to his heavy fastball, which sits at 93-96 mph with excellent sink. His slurvy curveball gives him a second plus pitch to complement his heater. After rarely throwing a changeup in 2009, he worked on the pitch prior to last season and mixed it in on occasion. While moving faster than anticipated, Kimbrel has made significant strides with his command and his ability to pitch inside. Reminiscent of a righthanded Billy Wagner, he has the stuff and makeup to finish games.

The Future: The Braves tried to expose Kimbrel to the job of a major league closer and Wagner's expertise without rushing him in 2010. He responded well, putting himself in position to take over as Atlanta's closer in 2011 following Wagner's retirement.

2010 Club (Class) W L ERA G GS CG SV IP H HR BB SO AVG
Gwinnett (AAA) 3 2 1.62 48 0 0 23 56 28 3 35 83 .148
Atlanta 4 0 0.44 21 0 0 1 21 9 0 16 40 .125