With Sean Doolittle (shoulder) not expected to be ready to start the season, Clippard appears in line to open 2015 as the A's closer.

With Sean Doolittle (shoulder) not expected to be ready to start the season, Clippard appears in line to open 2015 as the A's closer.

Analysis:

The A's acquisition of Clippard last week is looking all the more important in light of Friday's news regarding Doolittle. While a firm timetable for Doolittle's return has not been set, he has been diagnosed with a slight rotator cuff tear and the expectation is that his recovery will push into the regular season. It appears Clippard, who saved 32 games for the Nationals in 2012, is the frontrunner for save opportunities, ahead of the likes of Eric O'Flaherty and Ryan Cook.