Last time Dan Wheeler found himself closing games, it was in Houston as a result of Brad Lidge’s mental health. This time, he could again be claiming ninth-inning duties in Tampa Bay with the news that 38-year old closer Troy Percival was placed on the disabled list with a strained left hamstring.

After breaking the news story, the Tampa Tribune also made several other key points to consider when making roster decisions in fantasy. First, manager Joe Maddon is leaning towards a committee to close games. Second, Percival has been bothered by sore hamstrings all season. And third, Percival was none too pleased about the team’s decision.

What essentially played out here is a veteran is succumbing to the early season grind and reluctantly being placed on the disabled list. Since he wanted no part of the DL, there’s no reason to think that Percival will miss anything more than the required 15 days. In the meantime, Al Reyes and Wheeler will be the top two options to close games.

Wheeler has a better season resume than Reyes, so would be the favorite to take control of an early timeshare. In his first season with Tampa Bay since being released by the franchise in 2001, Wheeler is 0-3 with a 2.19 ERA, one save and 12 holds in 23 appearances (24.2 innings).

But Reyes, who missed a month of the season with a shoulder injury, has not allowed a hit in 5.1 innings since returning to Tampa Bay on May 14. Remember, Reyes was the Rays’ closer in 2007 and finished with 26 saves, despite less-than-stellar efforts in July, August and September. He had a 3.06 ERA at the end of June and finished with a 4.90 ERA, 70 strikeouts and a .215 opponents batting average in 60.2 innings.

Look for a 60/40 split in favor of Wheeler until Percival returns, which could be as early as June 13. Both warrant fantasy attention, especially in leagues where saves are at a premium.

Dustin Hockensmith is editor of ImaginaryDiamond.com. He can be contacted at dhockensmith[at]fantasysports101.net.