For awhile now Chad Qualls has been complaining of forearm stiffness and recently he has stated he thinks it will linger. This can never be good. Closers with lingering injuries have short life spans. He probably will make a trip to the DL and that bodes will for Jon Rauch.

Qualls has blown 2 of the last three saves after starting off extremely hot. Clearly the injury is effecting him and a DL stint has to be a consideration at this point.

I recommend picking up Rauch right now and hold him for 1-2 weeks. He is pitching very well and will take over the closer role if Qualls is out of commission.

You should also trade Qualls now. That forearm will likely be a long-term problem.