Atomic RoadRunners

Tony Pena finished the 2008 season with a 3-2 record and three saves while posting a 52:17 K:BB ratio in 72 appearances. The early-season emergence of Brandon Lyon as the D-Backs’ closer put Pena’s opportunity to work the ninth inning on hold, while Chad Qualls ended up taking over the role down the stretch when Lyon and trade deadline acquisition Jon Rauch were struggling. As for Pena, his strikeout rate (6.44 K/9IP) remained in line with his career mark, while he managed to cut back on his walks (2.11 BB/9IP) and home runs (0.62 HR/9IP). If he had been able to avoid a spike in BABIP (.329), Pena would have finished with an ERA closer to three than the 4.33 he ended with. All signs point to another season as a valuable set-up man for the D-Backs, especially since Arizona is likely to lose Juan Cruz via free agency. Pena will also remain in the mix for the closer’s role, and he could be given a chance to compete for the job during spring training. (Rotowire)

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