Kason Gabbard and Kyle Snyder have both looked very impressive in spring training.
Gabbard's line: 10 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, 7 K's, 4 BB.
Snyder's line: 8 1/3 IP, 8 H, 2 ER, 9 K's, 4 BB.
Why not carry Gabbard as the long reliever/spot starter out of the 'pen and use Snyder as the closer? Snyder has an outstanding K/9 ratio and seems to be very effective his first time through a lineup. He gets into trouble when he faces hitters for the second or third time. That won't be a problem if he's the closer.
I think that trading younger and cheaper pitchers with upside like Gabbard and Snyder for recycled veteran retreads (which seems to be how the Red Sox are leaning) would be a colossal blunder. These guys can thrive in Boston if given the right role. I thought Gabbard acquitted himself surprisingly well in limited big league action last year. He's one of those guys who pitches better in the majors than in the minor leagues. He feels more motivated against big league hitters.
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