Greg

Aquino

For the rest of the season, the job looks like it’s Aquino’s. He’s 7-for-7 in save opps while Valverde is still on the DL. Brian Bruney could also get a look in the spring.

Not a surprise. Melvin wouldn’t rule out Jose Valverde unseating him if Valverde makes a strong comeback from his shoulder problems, but it should be Aquino’s job on Opening Day. The converted shortstop was 16-for-19 in save chances after being called up last season.

Greg Aquino, who has allowed three runs in eight innings since being called up, might get the next save chance the Diamondbacks generate. He’s likely to struggle, but NL-only leaguers may still want to consider picking him up.

Aquino pronounced himself available to pitch after being hit with a line drive Friday. ''It doesn’t really hurt that much,’' Aquino said.

Aquino retired two batters before leaving. Buddy Groom replaced him.

Aquino pitched 8 2/3 scoreless innings for Tucson after his demotion last month. He should be an asset in the middle innings for the Diamondbacks.

Aquino, who never deserved a demotion in the first place, has allowed two hits in 6 2/3 scoreless innings since being sent down to Tucson. He’ll be back in the majors before long.

Aquino, who has a 4.54 ERA in 41 2/3 innings this season, might not be back until rosters expand next month.

Working mostly as a mop-up man, Aquino had a 4.32 ERA and a 1.26 WHIP in 16 2/3 innings. The Diamondbacks are downgrading by going to Kevin Jarvis in his spot.

Aquino, who had a 6.37 ERA in Triple-A before being called up, has been outstanding for the Diamondbacks when working with a lead. If he keeps this up, he might head into the offseason as the favorite to act as the closer in 2005.