Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Hoffman Records 600th Save

Last night, Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Trevor Hoffman recorded his 600th career save in the Brewers 4-2 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals.

I'm glad he got the chance to achieve the unprecedented. Hoffman has struggled this season losing his closer's job early in the year. John Axford is now the Brewers closer.

Even though Hoffman has more saves than any other reliever he only led the NL in saves twice - 1998 and 2006. But Hoffman is more consistent than spectacular. He notched 40 or more saves nine times in his career.

I also suspect there's a part of him that wishes he was back with the San Diego Padres. Even if he had a limited role in that bullpen I'm sure he would like one last chance at getting into another World Series. It would not surprise me if he were to retire after this season.

In which case, it won't be long before New York Yankees closer Mariano Rivera joins Hoffman in the 600 club. Rivera currently has 555 career saves. Assuming he's healthy, Rivera could record his 600th save next season.

While Rivera is considered the greatest closer in the history of MLB, Trevor Hoffman is a first ballot Hall of Famer.

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