Justin Speier

Speier was one of the most effective middle relievers in the game in 2007. He was only 2-3 but had a sparkling 2.88 ERA and 47 strikeouts in 50 innings pitched while allowing batters to hit only .202 against him. Speier throws a low-90s fastball, a slider and a good splitter that is tough on left-handers. He will begin the season as the Angels best middle reliever, but could see time in the set-up role if Scot Shields’ struggles again for any significant period of 2008.

Speier followed up a nice 2005 season with another solid year. He adequately set-up closer BJ Ryan and is expected to do the same for Francisco Rodriguez after having signed a four-year, $18 million contract with Anaheim.

Speier posted a quietly dominant season as a setup man, and was particularly strong after a shaky 7.56 ERA in April. He'll combine with Jason Frasor to give Toronto quality late innings leading up to BJ Ryan. Consider him for staff-filler slots.

Speier was part of the closer committee to start the season, but an elbow injury in mid-May sidelined him for nearly a month. Once healthy, he posted solid numbers from July 1 onward: 41.7 IP, 34 H, 15 BB, 33 K and 2.80 ERA. His struggles against lefties (7 HR allowed in 34.3 IP) could prevent him from playing a larger role in the late innings, however.

The fact that Speier has made it this far is as much a testament to his desire as his forkball. Speier was drafted in the 55th round of the 1995 draft and has had to fight for everything he's gotten. A three-way December trade sent Speier to Toronto, where's expected to be a part of a late-inning committee for the Blue Jays.

Another year of middle relief appears to be in the cards for Speier, who might be successful if used in late-inning situations for the right organization.