Jonathan Broxton: Superstar Closer in the Making

Takashi Saito is down and out:

"An examination on Tuesday revealed that Saito has a sprained ligament in his right elbow that will keep him sidelined for at least six weeks. He left Saturday's game against the Florida Marlins in the ninth inning with stiffness on the inside of his right elbow and will be placed on the 15-day disabled list Friday after being diagnosed by team physician Dr. Neal ElAttrache."

In comes Jonathan Broxton.  During the next month of so, I believe Broxton will show everyone that he is a future superstar closer.

The 24 year old right hander has been waiting in the wings for quite some time in Los Angeles and outside of getting blown up against Houston, and beaten up at Shea Stadium, Broxton's numbers are fantastic.  

Since May 31st, Broxton has lowered his ERA from a miserable 4.94 to a respectable 3.40.  During his same time-span, Broxton hasn't allowed a home run, and has only issued 6 walks in 15 2/3 innings of work.

Another hint towards Broxton's future success is his strikeout ability.  In his 2 1/2 year career, Broxton has struck out 242 batters in 198 innings.  This type of dominance is exactly what a closer needs in tight situations.

Saito is aging, and if Broxton excells over these next few weeks, Takashi could become expendable in the off-season.