Matt

Mantei

Boehringer’s should be easy to get, but the Rockies will have to decide whether to have Mantei’s transported by tractor-trailers or jumbo jets. It might be August before they’re fully reviewed.

Mantei isn’t going to handed the job by any team, but he still might head into next season as a closer, possibly with the Cubs, Rockies or Marlins. Although last year was a disaster, he should still be effective while healthy.

Mantei apparently would prefer the chance to post a low ERA as a setup man rather than rack up the saves as a closer a mile high. The Rockies are currently looking at Robb Nen, Billy Koch and Mike Dejean as potential closers.

ESPN has reported that the deal is worth $750,000. It’s safe to assume he’ll be able to make more through incentives.

''In fact, I’m going to stay away from commenting on him too much because he looks that good,’' Francona said. ''He’s throwing free and easy. We’re really excited about this.’' Probably about as excited as he was about Scott Williamson a year ago.

He’s coming back from shoulder surgery. ''I was a little rusty, but I’ll be ready to roll,’' he said.

Mantei is day-to-day with right shoulder tendinitis.

Mantei missed time last week when he originally split the fingernail earlier this month. Expect poor results until his finger heals.

Mantei will pitch an inning today as long as he doesn’t have any problems with the nail while warming up. The Diamondbacks remain optimistic that this won’t be a problem during the regular season.

According to manager Bob Brenly, Mantei didn’t have any problems with his fingernail. As long as that remains the case, Mantei will get things turned around soon.