Brad Lincoln - 2013 Scouting Report - Long man or Left Out

The Blue Jays have some serious questions with their bullpen in 2013. Its probably the only real debate in camp this spring. The closer role is undecided with Sergio Santos having an inside track on the job. Many questions will be left unanswered, a role of huge importance for the Jays is long reliever. In 2012, this was handled by Carlos Villaneuva, who now pitches for the Cubs. Brad Lincoln, who was acquired in exchange for Travis Snider last season. Lincoln has excellent stuff, a former first round pick he has issues with command. His in ability to throw strikes and keep the ball in the yard is going to make a long stay in Toronto a challenge. The Jays have loaded up on depth in this role with Dave Bush, Ramon Ortiz, J.A. Happ, Brett Cecil and Claudio Vargas are all going to spend time in Buffalo auditioning for time in Toronto. Lincoln and Happ have the greatest potential to help in the short and long term. Their potential contribution should not be underestimated, the number of staffs that have won a pennant without losing a starter along the way is few. Even Al Leiter was a great spot starter for the Jays in 93. The Yankees who won 95 games last year, needed David Phelps to make 11 starts and pitched well in the role. Brad Lincoln, has had excellent stints in the high minors. He pitched well with Pittsburgh before trading to the Jays. His strike out to walk ratio is also well above average at around 3 to 1. If he can find the command of his slider, his best pitch, he should be able to find a role with the Jays in the Pen.