Quote: What about Paulino? What about Nieve? I wonder how Sampson would do. Yes, he has a low K rate, but he might have the makeup to do it.

Just a reminder that Sampson will be coming off of elbow surgery next season. I don't like his poor K rate in a closer, but more importantly I don't see him throwing better in the season after surgery. Paulino was injured most of this season, and he hasn't yet shown that he is ready to pitch in the minors, much less the major leagues, yet. Nieve is another guy who is coming off of surgery, and if the Astros are lucky he will progress into a decent player next season. But his 5.72 ERA at Round Rock and 8+ ERA in Houston doesn't scream readiness for closer duties.