Most managers in the majors don’t like the idea of not having a set closer. Joe Maddon is not most managers.
Maddon sent James Russell out in the ninth inning of the Cubs game Tuesday night against the Brewers. Russell would close out the game and earn his first save of the season.
J. Russell gets first save of season to finish 6-3 win -- Cubs fifth in row. He's 7th Cub to earn a save this year.
— Gordon Wittenmyer (@GDubCub) August 12, 2015
After the game, Maddon was asked about why he went to Russell as opposed to Hector Rondon or one of the other pitchers used to close in the past. Maddon gave a somewhat surprising answer.
The Cubs manager told the media in his press conference that he plans on continuing to use multiple closers throughout the year. “It’s going to be spread among the masses,” Maddon said.
With the win, the Cubs improved to 63-48. They now sit just 2.5 games behind the Pirates for the top Wild Card spot.
