The Cardinals are thrilled with the job Jason Motte has done as their closer. He tentatively has been written in as their 2012 closer, keeping them from having to go outside the organization to get that piece. …
The Red Sox are hoping that Clay Buchholz, like Josh Beckett, can bounce back from injury in time to make at least one start before their playoff plans have to be set. He’s recovering from a stress fracture in his back, however, and he looks like a long shot to pitch again in 2011. There’s not believed to be anything physically wrong with Daniel Bard but the setup man has become a huge problem. Terry Francona believes he can get the struggling Bard right. …
From Ron Gardenhire’s perspective, the worst part of the Twins’ season has been a lack of solid fielding. The left side of the infield will be reviewed closely, with third baseman Danny Valencia and shortstops Trevor Plouffe and Tsuyoshi Nishioka on notice. Gardenhire said some players think, “I know if I hit and get my numbers, I’ll be fine. That doesn’t work. Not around here.” …
Fear the Tigers. Their 12-game winning streak was their longest since 1984, when they won the World Series under the late Sparky Anderson. …
The Braves hope to get reliever Kris Medlen back in time for the playoffs. They aren’t as optimistic about Jair Jurrjens, however. The bone bruise in his right knee has been slow to heal. Tommy Hanson, like Medlen, could factor into an extended postseason run. He’s expected to work in the Instructional League in late September and could be considered for the NLCS rotation. …
MLB is concerned about the Giants’ stability, with Bill Neukom the second CEO forced out in three years. The same powerful collection of investors that had put Neukom in Peter Magowan’s place didn’t feel Neukom was keeping them informed on key decisions, so Lawrence Baer is now in the hot seat. Baer faces a huge question this winter in whether to re-sign Carlos Beltran, who didn’t pay dividends after general manager Brian Sabean acquired him from the Mets. Like Neukom, Baer isn’t likely to endorse an A’s move to San Jose. …
If the Angels start Jered Weaver on short rest Sunday, it will be so they can get him two more starts before season’s end, possibly including one against the Rangers in Game 162.
