With the emergence of Carlos Marmol (or is it resurgence?) the Cubs don't really have to concern themselves too much with the closers position this winter. Still if they wanted to there are some quality guys out there on the market should a team want to pick up a brand new closer.

The biggest name of the group is Astros closer Jose Valverde, the very same Valverde who spends each strike thanking a higher power and finishes each save by taking a dump in his pants. Despite his bothersome antics Valverde is one of the better closers in the game right now, and any team that gets him will be happy to have him. He mentioned earlier this season the Cubs as one team he would like to go to, and if he was willing to come play set-up man (He isn't) and not complain that a less proven guy closes instead of him (he won't) I'd love to have him.

Next is the Braves two-headed closing monster Rafael Soriano and Mike Gonzalez. Soriano was injured for most of 2008, but 2009 was his best season in a long time. He posted a ERA of 2.97 and a FIP of 2.54, not too shabby. His saves total isn't terribly high because he split time with Gonzalez, but he got the job done when he was asked. He would be a perfect set-up man for the Cubs, but unfortunately his price and ability will make him a closer elsewhere.

You might remember Gonzalez as the Pirates closer not too long ago, but now he is the left-handed guy in Bobby Cox's closer rotation. Gonzalez posted a 2.42 ERA and 3.51 FIP while getting 10 saves for the Braves. He would close out innings where the batters were mostly left-handed. He did blow seven saves, but remember you also get blown saves in set-up situations. He would be a fine addition to any bullpen, but he won't help on a Cubs team over-flowing with lefty bullpen guys.

Finally we come to current Rockies reliever Rafael Betancourt who also spent time on the Indians this year. He is definitely more of a set-up man, but has closer stuff. He posted a FIP of 2.92 this season and his career FIP is 3.17. He isn't as big a name as the first three guys here and he could financially make sense for the Cubs, but you won't see him at Wrigley playing for the home team.

All four names would be great additions to any bullpen, but the problem is that they will all command deals bigger than what the Cubs have to offer. With tons of internal options that are all cost controlled there is no need to go out and waste money on set-up men. That said if Valverde or Soriano want to come here and it isn't too expensive I won't be upset about it.

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