RoboThal:

Free-agent reliever David Riske, who is closing in on a multi-year deal with the Brewers, could get the chance to replace Francisco Cordero as the team's closer.

"That's what intriguing about the Milwaukee Brewers," Riske's agent, Nez Balero, told FOXSports.com. "We feel that David would be given an opportunity to be more than just a setup man. He's not shying away from being a closer at all. If given that opportunity, he would welcome it."

Projects as a little better than average.

http://www.baseballthinkfactory.org/files/oracle/discussion/2008_zips_projections_kansas_city_royals/

Ludicrous that the Mets can't offer three years and best the money, unless we're talking something like 3/30. And we're not.

There were rumors that it was as much as 3/18. I think the Brewers could do worse that give him 3/14 (Braden Looper money) to be their closer.

David Riske as a closer?

Ludicrous that the Mets can't offer three years and best the money, unless we're talking something like 3/30. And we're not.

$6M a year for a set-up guy, Howard? And if the Brewers are offering him the chance to be a closer, that is a tempting thing for a guy like Riske, and the Mets can't match that.

From early indications, it appears it'll be more in the Linebrink area (but fewer years, obviously) - $4/4.5m.

Having seen Riske pitch for the White Sox, and Linebrink pitch for the Brewers, and given equal yearly pay for 3 and 4 years, respectively...I'd rather have Linebrink.

David Riske gets guys out without a good fastball. That always scares me a little bit.

The Brewers net themselves two draft picks by signing Riske instead of Linebrink. That matters.

$6M a year for a set-up guy, Howard? And if the Brewers are offering him the chance to be a closer, that is a tempting thing for a guy like Riske, and the Mets can't match that.

Mets need another arm in the pen- if they are prepared to spend 3 mil, why not spend 4-5 mil on a three year deal and bring the most reliable middle guy on the market in?

Riske-y

Alternatively

Riske-que

Ludicrous that the Mets can't offer three years and best the money, unless we're talking something like 3/30. And we're not.

This kind of thinking just makes my blood boil.

and fans of these New York ball clubs can't understand why we despise them.

MIL J-S blog:

The Brewers won't be announcing the signing of free-agent reliever David Riske today but the deal is still on track to happen, probably on Monday.

I talked with Riske's agent, Nez Balelo, and he said nothing had gone wrong with the talks. He said both sides were busy and Riske was away at a wedding, and indicated this would all come down Monday.

"Everything is fine. Talks are great," said Balelo. "We're all busy."

The delay might have something to do with the Brewers' 40-man roster. I believe it's full -- I'll check with Doug Melvin and get back to you -- and the Brewers might have to clear a space for Riske.