Putz ends year with loss: Arizona closer J.J. Putz helped the Diamondbacks get to Game 5 of the NLDS on Friday night, but he he would be the last pitcher to throw a pitch in 2011. He allowed one run on two hits in the bottom of the 10th inning against the Brewers and would get tagged for the loss as Milwaukee beat Arizona, 3-2. (Updated 10/07/2011)
Injury Report
No information available at this time (Updated 2/12/12).
Fantasy Analysis
Even though he ends the year on a low point, Putz put together a strong campaign in 2011. He was a huge part of Arizona's bullpen as he finished with 45 saves. Putz posted a 2-2 record and 2.17 ERA during the regular season as well, which definitely helped the Diamondbacks make the postseason. Over his previous three seasons between the Mariners, Mets and White Sox Putz recorded just 20 saves combined, so one could say Putz's career took a nice U-turn. As long as he's closing out games for the Diamondbacks Fantasy owners should view him as a top-10 RP option on Draft Day in 2012. (Updated 10/07/2011).
02/10/2012 13:27 2012 Draft Prep: 12-team, mixed H2H draft
Which picks stood out in our initial 12-team Head-to-Head mock draft for 2012? Check out the results and read what Scott White has to say about some of the more interesting selections.
02/02/2012 12:21 2012 Draft Prep: Our 12-team, mixed Rotisserie draft
It's time for owners to start looking ahead to Draft Day. We get you off and running with our 12-team Rotisserie mock draft. Check out the results!
After a couple of injury-plagued seasons and a year of purgatory as the White Sox's set-up man, J.J. Putz reemerged as a quality closer in 2011, converting 45 of 49 save opportunities with the Diamondbacks. The Michigan native was back in prime form, striking out more than a batter per inning, while walking only 12 hitters over his 58 innings. While Putz was one of the most productive relievers in Fantasy, he reminded owners of his vulnerability, as he missed nearly all of July with elbow tendinitis. There should be few questions about Putz's ability to shut down hitters, but his persistent elbow problems could put a damper on expectations come draft day. Putz could perform like an elite closer when he is healthy, but injury concerns should keep him from being one of first closers taken. (Updated 1/9/12)