The Reverse Closer: A Next Step in Specializing Pitchers

Josh Fields, Houston Astros

Josh Fields has the second-highest hold total on the Astros pitching staff at eight. Although he's been a late-game guy for Houston, the club’s continued struggles don’t really offer him the opportunity to preserve many leads.

Fields’ 4.53 ERA isn’t good and might make him seem as a questionable choice for this role, but his 2.10 FIP show that he’s effective. The 29-year-old has an 11.6 K/9 and a 4.06 K/BB, even though his 2.9 BB/9 isn’t that great. Even though he’s averaging almost a hit per inning, he’s only given up two long balls this year. Fields has only started one game since he was drafted in 2008, and has shown at every level he can compete as a short-reliever, making him a prime candidate for this unique position.