Tom Gordon Finds Closing Easier Than Setting Up

It comes as no surprise to Philadelphia closer Tom "Flash" Gordon that he already has three saves in just four innings and a 1.93 ERA. Gordon, who has had arm problems in the past and underwent Tommy John Surgery six years ago, believes his new job will be easier to endure than when he set up Mariano Riviera for the Yankees last year because set-up men must pitch about 80 innings a year, while a good closer might pitch a couple of dozen fewer. Gordon was required to pitch 80 innings for New York last year and nearly 90 the year before. The 38-year-old hurler predicts that 60 innings will be his approximate limit this year, a considerably easier burden than what he has been used to.