[Lefty Noob]

Early last week, the Cleveland Indians signed Japanese pitcher Masahide Kobayashi to a two-year, $6.25 million deal. Kobayashi, 33, was a closer for the Bobby Valentine managed Chiba Lotte Marines last season. He's expected to be a set-up man for Joe Borowski, but I wouldn't be all too surprised to see the Tribe give him a look in the closers role. What do you think?

Indians import: Cleveland signs Japanese closer Masahide Kobayashi to 2-year deal - MLB - Yahoo! Sports

[EmpireWF]

If he can be effective at all, great deal for the Indians.

"Kobayashi relies mainly on a slider as his out pitch. His fastball has been clocked in the mid-90s (mph) and he also throws a splitter."

If his slider is that good, and he can get his fastball into the 90s, he should do well.

[azrael492]

A slider is a great pitch for a closer. It makes the fastball that much better. If he is consistent at all, I bet he takes the job from Borowski. Every time he came in Cleveland held its breath.