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DAVID SRINIVASAN

Every year, some unheralded relievers go from scrubs to stallions. Last season, Eric Gagne had 52 saves with a 1.97 ERA after a horrid 2001 in L.A.'s rotation. Who could be a surprise this year? There are a few situations to watch.

Red Sox. General manager Theo Epstein wants the Sox to use a committee in short relief. In that case, rank 'em in this order: Alan Embree, Mike Timlin, Ramiro Mendoza and Bob Howry. And don't forget Chad Fox, who could be the best of the bunch if he is healthy.

Cubs. Antonio Alfonseca's career is anything but noteworthy. He has a hard, hard sinker and 121 saves, but opponents have hit .280 against him lifetime, and his control is mediocre. Joe Borowski and new arrival Mike Remlinger have more potential and could steal the closer job if Alfonseca goes into an extended slump.

Tigers. Forget the gossip; Franklyn German will be Matt Anderson's setup man. Manager Alan Trammell recently told the Detroit News that he loves German, but German is too unpolished (read: wild) to close right now.

Padres. There's a decent chance Trevor Hoffman will be out until 2004 because of shoulder trouble. If Hoffman hits the shelf, keep an eye on Jay Witasick, Brandon Villafuerte and possibly rookie lefthander Rusty Tucker. Witasick is first in line, but Tucker could become another Arthur Rhodes.