Getting Typecast: Neftali Feliz

After a back and forth spring, it was announced today that Neftali Feliz would be returning to the back end of the bullpen as the Ranger's closer. I don't need to state or explain why a starter is more valuable than a closer. That horse has been beaten to death. As for Feliz.. He was excellent as a starter during his limited minor league career, and has been just as good as a reliever since reaching the show in late 2009.  I am unaware of any scout or talent evaluator who doesn't think he can succeed at the top of a rotation at this point in his career.

Regardless, he is closing, and so what does this mean for a player with his track record?

CTOD Texas Rangers

The Texas Rangers were the AL Champs last year, yet lost to the Giants in the World Series. Will they repeat as AL Champs again? Do they have the stuff to take home the title of 2011 World Series Champs? Everyone knows they have the bats to get them there, no doubt about that. However is there pitching going to be able to hold up and give them what they need to win?