Good observations, except I don't think Perk's decline has anything to do with mental toughness. It's all about breaking down physically from age and injury. Remember, Glen Perkins was never a power pitcher as a starter. He added about 6 mph to his formerly 90- to 91mph heater only after he became a closer, combined with pinpoint control and initially a wipeout slider that was almost as devastating as Liriano's. He was Joe Nathan left handed. Unfortunately, although Perk's smooth arm action has saved him from elbow and shoulder break down, other parts have begun to get injured from throwing a baseball in the mid-90's or throwing a high-velocity slider. He has reached his physical limit of enduring that stress with his back, his neck and other parts. Even if he comes back next season, he simply won't be as dominant as a closer. The Twins could go many ways next season, but they have to start moving on from Perkins as their main closer. He could be part of a closer by committee, or be a less-used setup man or middle reliever. Nick Burdi will get a lot of attention next spring, but he'll be a rookie. The team could bring Burdi up and mix him with Perk and Jepsen for a while, or they could go out and buy a closer. Whatever way the team goes, the closer position is no longer a certainty. That was the kind of special deal that doesn't last forever. My hat's off to Glen Perkins, one of the greatest closers I've seen.