Kevin Gregg Will Close for Cubs

In something of an upset, Lou Piniella has named Kevin Gregg as the Cubs closer for 2009.  It was assumed all along that Carlos Marmol would get that job, but obviously, Gregg’s fantastic spring numbers – 0 earned runs allowed so far in Cactus League play – swayed the manager.  Marmol will be the #1 set-up man, the role he filled last year when the now-departed Kerry Wood closed.  Gregg does also have more closing experience than Marmol, having served in that capacity for two years with the Marlins.  Gregg figures to get a lot more save opportunities with the Cubs than he did with Florida who were at best mediocre during his tenure.