Neftali Feliz replaces Frank Francisco as Rangers closer ... for now

Early on in spring training the Rangers were deciding whether to use Neftali Feliz as a starter or a reliever, but suddenly the 22-year-old phenom has been thrust into the closer role following two blown saves from Frank Francisco. Ron Washington made it clear that the switch is intended to be short term, saying: “We need to give him some time to get things together. Frankie will be the closer for the Texas Rangers.” Francisco began last year by converting 11-of-11 save chances in 17.2 scoreless innings, but since then he has a 7.22 ERA in 33.2 innings while blowing six saves in 20 chances. Between arm problems and extreme fly-ball tendencies Francisco is hardly reliable even if he reclaims the gig and if Feliz ends up staying in the bullpen long term he’s destined for ninth-inning duties eventually anyway. In other words, don’t presume they’ll switch back.