Closers are...
 

Explain if you want.

Re: Closers are...
 

Mentally tough.

Re: Closers are...
 

Underrated.

Re: Closers are...
 

Of the choices, I say born without a doubt.

How many times do you see a top setup guy with top notch stuff fail as a closer?

You have to have a certain mentality to pitch the 9th inning, and it isn't something that is taught.

Re: Closers are...
 

Never made.

Closers are natural born killers.

Re: Closers are...
 

Made from failed starters.

Re: Closers are...
 

The instincts and mentality of a good closer is something that you have to be born with. The ability to pitch is something you make and develop, so I say it's a little bit of both.

Re: Closers are...
 

Good point.

Re: Closers are...
 

Made, usually from guys with a tough mentality and two plus pitches.

Re: Closers are...
 

Of course you have to have the stuff, but without out the killer instinct and ability to walk into a pressure packed situation and take charge you aren't going to be worth a crap as a closer. So I voted for Born.

Re: Closers are...
 

Overpaid.

Re: Closers are...
 

This season really showed me the importance of a closer.

I thought they were overrated, but now I'm not so sure.

Re: Closers are...
 

This team didn't need a closer per se, it needed for its relievers not to be atrocious.

Even with the Cubs' bullpen, as middle of the road as it was, the Reds are probably in a tie for first right now.

Re: Closers are...
 

I think they are made. Some guys are born with the talent, but others (Shaw, Brantley) were able to be made into one.

And they can be unmade as well (Wohlers, Graves). I really think the physical talent is more important than the mental part. If a guy has the talent, it's easy to get the attitude/confidence. If he doesn't have the talent (Franklin), all the attitude in the world isn't going to nail down the save.

Re: Closers are...
 

Like her...

http://www.tv-series-on-dvd.com/cover/closer.jpg