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Durability grade: 1 (very injury-prone) to 10 (extremely durable)
Job security grade: 1 (very shaky) to 10 (firm grasp)
Closer: Jim Johnson
Next in line: Jamie Walker
Other possibilities: Fernando Cabrera
Disabled list: George Sherrill (shoulder), Chris Ray (elbow)
Sherrill did a solid job as the O's closer, but the lefty hit the disabled list Tuesday, August 19, due to left shoulder inflammation. There is no timetable for his return, but Sherrill is expected to rest for a week before he resumes throwing.
Johnson has pitched effectively in a setup role this year, and he figures to get the first shot at closing games for the O's. Johnson does not have a dominant strikeout pitch and could struggle in the closer's role because of it. He may also eventually relinquish some save chances to former closer Ray when and if Ray makes it back to the majors this season.
Ray is currently pitching in the minor leagues as part of his recovery from Tommy John surgery, though Orioles manager Dave Trembley has stated that he did not expect to see Ray pitch in the majors this year. That outlook may change now that Sherrill has hit the DL.
Durability grade: 9
Job security grade: 5
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