I posted earlier about Carlos Marmol being a poor value where he's being drafted, but I said that he was still the slight favorite to win the job. I no longer believe that. Not only did Marmol hit two batters Saturday, but Gregg has been nearly perfect this spring, allowing no runs and two hits in five innings, while striking out five.

Moreover, Lou Piniella said he'd make his decision by next weekend. If Gregg hadn't already all but locked up the job barring a terrible week, we'd expect Piniella to wait longer for Marmol to log some spring training innings with the club and hone his command. In other words, Marmol's the guy he needs to see bounce back and show consistency, which takes time. But Gregg looks ready right now. The shorter timetable for the decision (which really doesn't have to made until three weeks from now) favors Gregg.

I'd even argue that if Marmol is lights out this week, it might just solidify his value in a setup capacity. The only way I see Gregg losing the job is if he has a horrible week. It's possible, of course, but Gregg's feeling healthy after successful offseason knee surgery and throwing the ball well.

Finally, having the job matters more to Gregg: "I want it," he said Saturday. "I want to close. I have no qualms about saying that." On which Piniella commented: "I don't blame him. He threw the ball well. He's had success in that role. We're not going to make that decision for a little while yet."

Marmol, on the other hand, seems almost resigned to setup duty:

Said Marmol: "I don't care. I'm glad to be on the team, and be on a good team. It's not my decision, it's their decision. I pitch wherever they put me. I want to be a closer, but if they put me in the situation where I have to pitch the eighth, I'll go out there. I want to help the team."

Barring a huge change in performance this week, I expect Gregg to get the job.