Assuming a team thinks it's closer is (significantly) better than their other RPs, and the team is facing the best part of the batting order (2-3-4 or 3-4-5 or 1-2-3) in the 7th or 8th inning (especially the 8th), do you think the manager should at least consider using his closer then (instead of holding him until the 9th)? If you don't hold the lead in the 7th & 8th, you don't need a closer in the 9th. Do you need your best relief pitcher to get the 2 worst hitters in the lineup and a guy not worthy enough to start (pinch-hitter) out? Shouldn't your best relief pitcher be used to get the toughest outs, rather than simply the last 3 outs, regardless of who they are.
Thoughts?
Thoughts?