After Monday's loss, Royals beat writer Bob Dutton tweeted the following-
Royals strip closers role from Joakim Soria. Goes to Aaron Crow.
It certainly was a step that was needed, albeit a step that shouldn't have taken this long. You can certainly feel bad for Soria in this situation, but if he's not producing then you must do something. After being dominant for the better part of four years, Soria has seemingly hit a wall. While I think the disabled list is still the better move, this certainly is a step in the right direction for Kansas City.
Aaron Crow now assumes the role of closer. The rookie from Mizzou is a 24 year-old right hander that was picked by Kansas City in the first round of the 2009 draft. Crow was previously selected in the first round of the 2008 draft by the Washington Nationals but did not sign.
After being converted to a reliever by the Royals, Crow has certainly shown he has the talent to take the reigns as closer. In 22 games this season, he has a 2-0 record with a 1.33 ERA. In 27 innings pitches, he has struck out 26 while walking just nine. His WHIP is 1.03.
I'm excited to see Crow finally get the chance, while on the other hand I am still worried about Soria and hope this isn't the beginning of the end for the player we all have grown to love.