NL Central notes: Cardinals closer situation, Ron Roenicke

With the Reds and Cardinals as established playoff contenders, the NL Central should be a competitive division in 2013. Let's take a look at the recent news surrounding the division.

Motte going for MRI, Boggs' "closer mentality"

With Jason Motte going for an MRI on his right elbow, the Cardinals certainly have to be concerned about his long-term future moving forwards. The team currently is using Mitchell Boggs as their closer, but as we saw yesterday when he imploded in the ninth inning, he is not the same caliber of pitcher of Jason Motte.

As Dan Moore of Viva El Birdos discussed, Boggs is not a very good reliever compared to their other options. They could go with options such as Joe Kelly or Trevor Rosenthal, the latter of which showcased on electric fastball and lights-out stuff last fall in big spots throughout the postseason. For a team that is so talented, it would surely be a waste to blow multiple games in important division match-ups due to the lack of a strong closer.

The team has the pitching depth to where it should be able to fill its holes internally, but if they are unable to they should try and acquire someone who can be a reliable guy for them in high leverage spots.

Roenicke hospitalized with a back problem, is okay

Brewers skipper Ron Roenicke was hospitalized recently with a back problem, but should return to the team soon. For a team that has been hit so hard recently by the injury bug, keeping the leadership of their manager will be important as they look to try and make a run at the playoffs this year.

If he is unable to manage, bench coach Jerry Narron will take over managerial duties against the Cubs. Someone should send the Brewers a get-well card.