1. Jonathan Broxton, LAD: Overtakes Papelbon as top closer with video game numbers (1.33 ERA, 0.67 WHIP) and bonus 5 wins
2. Jonathan Papelbon, BOS: Starting to figure things out, but already has more walks this season (11) than he did all of ‘08 (8)
3. Mariano Rivera, NYY: On pace for second-highest opponents’ batting average of career (.244), but using pristine control (28:1 K-to-BB ratio) to lock down saves
4. Francisco Rodriguez, NYM: Had 10 saves and a 0.00 ERA in 15 May appearances; is tied for 2nd in MLB with 14 saves
5. Joe Nathan, MIN: Better days are ahead for the Twins, which means more save chances for one of the game’s most reliable closers
6. Heath Bell, SD: Big-time surprise as MLB saves leader; if Padres keep overachieving, he blows past 40 saves
7. Trevor Hoffman, MIL: A dynamo since coming off the disabled list; has yet to allow an earned run in 16 appearances, already has 14 saves
8. Joakim Soria, KC: When healthy (shoulder), is baseball’s best young closer; returned from the DL in non-save situation Wednesday
9. Frank Francisco, TEX: A draft day gem; allowed his first run of the season Sunday, but still has 0.46 ERA and 12 straight save conversions
10. Francisco Cordero, CIN: Improved command has been a pleasant surprise; on pace for career-best efficiency (16.0 P/IP) and just 21 walks Read more »

Pitchers and catchers reporting to camp is always an anticipated day, but coming off one of the most depressing offseasons in recent baseball history, Feb. 14 was particularly refreshing. Even if it’s just for a little while, baseball fans can shift their attention back to the field, rather than a struggling economy and three powerful stories on performance-enhancing drugs.

The trials and tribulations of Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens and Alex Rodriguez won’t be in our rearview mirrors anytime soon, but at least they have competition for news headlines. Manny Ramirez will remain in the spotlight, but the opening of spring camp means that an ending is finally in sight for that story. We can finally start to replace some of the more bizarre and borderline depressing stories with a little bit of optimism. Read more »