Killswitch

MESA, Ariz. -- Like Cub clockwork, the coronation of Kerry Wood as the team's closer no sooner got under way than Wood got waylaid by injury.

Maybe the back spasms that forced him to be scratched from Wednesday's game are no big deal. But because they belong to Wood, they are necessarily a big deal.

And whether they keep him out just two more days or another week, or return in the cold of April or never return, they've already put the Cubs' closer plans in doubt until at least the final week of camp.

Unless Wood's back pain lingers deep into next week, manager Lou Piniella seems intent on making him the closer. And Carlos Marmol's recent struggles -- including his worst outing of the spring Wednesday -- haven't suggested a persuasive alternative. Neither have the last three weeks of results from veteran Bob Howry, who has been outpitched by Wood and Marmol.

About the closer's job ... :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Cubs

__________________