Reds leaning toward closer-by-committee

One week before the season opener, Cincinnati Reds manager Dusty Baker is leaning toward a closer-by-committee approach to replace Ryan Madson.

The Reds learned four days ago that Madson has a torn ligament in his pitching elbow and will need reconstructive surgery, ending his season. There's no one else on the roster with significant experience in the role.

Left-handed set-up man Sean Marshall is the next best alternative, but has never been a full-time closer. Baker wants to see how he handles pitching a full inning several days in a row.

The Reds' bullpen took another hit on Wednesday when the team announced that right-handed set-up man Nick Masset will start the season on the disabled list because of an inflamed pitching shoulder.