ST. LOUIS CARDINALS CLOSER "EXTREME", TREVOR ROSENTHAL

St. Louis Cardinals closer extreme, Trevor Rosenthal. In my reference of "extreme", this comes
on two levels,

Level One - In 2014 he held a 3.20 ERA/45 Saves/70.1 IP, followed by his 2015 season closing
with a 2.10 ERA/48 Saves/68.2 IP.

Level Two - Suggested that fans bring along an oxygen tank, medications and heavy dose of faith
for his appearance on the mound. Many times fans have held their hands over their eyes waiting
for that final out. "Rosie" was not adverse to giving the opposition hope of a win with free passes,
or fly balls, to reach base. Throwing in a much needed double-play, was not beyond the "Rosie" method. However, and thankfully, most of the time he "did his job".

He finished second last season to Pittsburgh Pirates Mark Melancon, who had 51 saves for the 2015
season.

Does Rosenthal have the ability to be "top performer" as a closer in 2016 topping the save list?

Potentially, yes. His capabilities are intact and has become a very strong closer for the Cardinals.
What another season reaching 48+ saves will depend on is the offense for St. Louis.

It is surmised that the Cardinals will not be any stronger this season at the plate and will, once
again, be dependent of their very strong rotation and bullpen in 2016. Thus, Rosenthal will have
the opportunity to build his save count and reign as "King" this coming season over both leagues
of the MLB.

However, on the flipside, I feel the Cardinals offense is going to shock many and we will see
much improvement over last season. Therefore, taking away some of "Rosie's" save situations.

So, Cardinals fans, which would you rather see? Rosenthal with yet another (not to say even with
improved offense it won't happen) 48+ saves? OR, around the 35 mark?

Personally, I would like to see him hold down an ERA under the 2.00 mark, no matter his
accumulating save number. That would mean, Cardinals fans could rest easy in the ninth inning
of play - breathing far easier in getting the win.

And, no more need for this scene. Cardinals fans can hold this as a fond memory.

But, will fans be able to totally remove this sentiment entirely when "Rosie" takes the mound? My though is ~ "not". It's a moment we have come to accept and love - as we breathe deep with that final out.