Chad Cordero

A torn labrum ruined his 2008, but his performance had been declining for three seasons. Non-tendered by the Nationals, he could get offered a closing job this offseason if a team gets desperate and Cordero's rehab looks like it's coming along, but more likely he'll have to work his way back up through the ranks from middle relief. He's nothing more than a saves lottery ticket in 2009.

Cordero's walk rate crept up once again and his hits allowed jumped through the roof, as his mechanics drifted in and out of sync all season. He's been the Nationals closer for three-plus seasons now and gotten by on a bulldog mentality on the mound and good-but-not-great stuff, and the organization would probably be well-advised to move him while he's still got that "experienced stopper" tag and before his performance slips another notch.

Cordero's ERA jumped and his save total sagged last year but the difference in his component numbers was negligible, as he was basically the exact same pitcher he was in 2005. That he was able to maintain his performance while the rest of the bullpen (and pitching staff, for that matter) imploded around him says a lot about his mental toughness and approach on the mound. Trade rumors surrounded him in the offseason, and to an extent a name-brand closer is a luxury for a rebuilding club like the Nationals, but given his price tag Washington should be in no hurry to pull that trigger.

Cordero blossomed in 2005 as one of the league's best closers, trading off some K's for much better control. As long as the defense behind him holds up its end, there's little reason to think he'll regress too much.

The closer role fell into Cordero's lap midway through the season, and for the most part he didn't disappoint. He'll need to cut down on the walks before he can take things to the next level, however.

The Expos' first round pick in 2003 was fast-tracked to the majors, pitching just 26 1/3 innings in the minors before his promotion. He looked good in the majors, and picked up his first big league save -- we wouldn't be at all surprised if he opened 2004 as Montreal's closer.