The agreed-to-but-not-final Wilton Lopez deal that may fall through gives us a little insight as to what the Phillies are thinking. They want a reliever who can be strong in the 8th inning. They want someone young, inexpensive, and who will be around a while. That player could come from the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in Jordan Walden, suggests Marcus Morris of Pucktacular. According to CBS Sports' R.J. White, Walden is "very available" with the Angels' signing of Ryan Madson.
Walden was the Angels' closer in 2011, and blew 10 saves. After getting roughed up in April of 2012 to the tune of an 8.31 ERA, Walden settled into a set-up role and performed much better in May and pitched to a 0.73 ERA in 12 appearances. For the season, Walden was 3-2 with a 3.46 ERA and one save in two opportunities.
Walden might not be as good as a healthy Lopez could be, but he might also cost less to acquire. He's a name worth considering.
