Ryan Wagner

Wagner got a fresh start in Washington, but was still unable to live up to his status as a former 14th overall pick. He could be motivated by the success of bullpen-mate Chad Cordero, another college closer who's managed to make the conversion to the pros far more easily, but at this point Wagner is looking like a bust.

Wagner started the 2005 season on fire while Danny Graves was floundering, so many observers considered it a matter of time before he displaced Graves as the closer. Those plans never came to fruition, as Wagner first struggled with his command in key spots and then got shut down with shoulder stiffness. The Reds worked on his mechanics towards the end of 2005 and in the Instructional League, where he shined. He probably won't begin the year closing, but at some point he still could be part of the mix.

The league adjusted to Wagner in 2004 after a solid late-season debut in 2003. Chalk this season up as an adjustment period and hang onto him if you're in a keeper league. He has plenty of time to rebound. The Reds added veteran help to the bullpen this offseason and will move Jose Acevedo to a relief role, so Wagner could begin the year at Triple-A Louisville or in low-leverage situations with the parent club. His long-term outlook is still as a closer, but it won't happen in 2005.

The Reds' 2003 first-round draft pick, Wagner made the jump from his minor league debut to the majors in 46 short days. Wagner features a unique delivery that allows him to get extra movement on his fastball, which tops out in the low-to-mid 90's. His best pitch, however, is a slider that ranks among the best in the game. There are some concerns about his endurance, which will likely preclude him making the move to the starting rotation in the short-term. Danny Graves will begin the year as the closer, but the Reds would love to move him and his salary and eventually insert Wagner in the role.

Possible closer of the future. There's been talk of moving him to the rotation as well, however.