Not so closed case

Who is the Mets' closer out of the bullpen in 2011? 

The team owes a fortune to Francisco Rodriguez, but have received late season dividends from Hisanori Takahashi. 

The Mets are trying to rid themselves of Rodriguez, who is winding through the courts on charges related to battering his girl friend's father.  The Mets may not be able to get out of their contractual obligation with Rodriguez and it remains to be seen if they can find another  team willing to assume a large portion of his contract.

Takahashi was up and down as a fifth starter, but was effective in the bullpen and especially as the closer, where he has converted eight saves. 

Of course, there has been little pressure for a team out of the race and the Mets would have to decide if they really wanted to rely on a 35-year-old who does not throw especially hard.

However, how many save opportunities will exist on a team expected to be in rebuilding  mode next season?  

September has been interesting. If the season started next week, Takahashi would be the closr, Dillon Gee would be in the rotation and Nick Evans would be in left field.  The first two could happen. Evans (.379) might have put himself in position to make the team as a utility player or pinch hitter.