As things begin to wrap up in Florida and Arizona there have been quite a few moves in the last two days concerning various closers. And most of it was not good.

The Blue Jays announced that B.J. Ryan will begin the season on the DL. This is no surprise as he has barely pitched this spring. They hope to have him back mid-April at best. But given his history, it could be much later than that. Jeremy Accardo will pitch the ninth for the Jays. He led Toronto with 30 saves last year.

Brad Lidge will also begin the year on the DL. The Phillies had hoped he would secure a very shaky bullpen. That may be in peril now. He is expected to return April 5 but keep in mind that last year he was not able to hold his job with the Astros. Tom Gordon will take over the closer role in Philly. While the veteran was shaky last season and is also coming off of injury, he has pitched well in the spring.

Lou Piniella has finally decided on Kerry Wood to close games for the Cubs. He had been in competition with Carlos Marmol and Bob Howry this spring. While Wood may certainly be a great pitcher, he is no stranger to the DL. Don't be surprised to see both Marmol and Howry pitch a few games in the ninth inning this year. 

The Twins extended the contract of their stud closer Joe Nathan. The contract is reported to be worth $47 million over four years. While he may be deserving of the deal, many are wondering why the Twins didn't use some of that money to keep Johann Santana.

On a former-closer, current-starter note, John Smoltz may be heading for the DL to start the season. However, he may be able to pitch as early as April 6.  Still anytime a 40-year old pitcher starts missing games with a sore shoulder it is a sign that the end may be near.