Ryan Madson is looking to prove himself again this offseason. (US Presswire)

The Reds had an elegant plan in place heading into spring training last year. Ryan Madson, on a one-year, $8.5 million deal, would be the mercenary closer. Trade acquisition Sean Marshall, a 29-year-old lefty with a 2.45 ERA over the past two years as a Cub, could be the closer-in-waiting and an elite setup man. And the phenom Aroldis Chapman could finally slide into the starting role everyone wanted to see him in since Cincinnati signed him out of Cuba.


Then in late March, Madson's elbow blew out. One Tommy John surgery later, and the Reds were without their mercenary closer for the entire season. The Aroldis Chapman Starter Experience was postponed and perhaps canceled for good as he became one of the game's pre-eminent relievers in filling the closer's role.

For the Reds, it was easy to forget Madson ever signed. They rolled to an NL-best 97 wins and won their second NL Central crown in three years.

For Madson, it was the worst possible turn. Tommy John is a terrible experience in the course of any pitcher's career, but Madson's timing was dreadful.

In January, Madson was reported to have a four-year, $44 million contract in place to become the closer of the Phillies. The deal fell through. Madson's agent, Scott Boras, and Philadelphia GM Ruben Amaro each offered their own stories, with Boras suggesting the Phillies left Madson hanging after agreeing to the reported contract.

The Phillies instead signed Jonathan Papelbon to a record-setting four-year, $50 million contract. Madson's market quickly dried up, forcing him to take the "pillow contract" (Boras' words) the Reds offered. These pillow contracts are meant to set up a player in a bear market with a chance to capitalize after a successful year. Tommy John derails such plans.

If Madson's medicals don't show anything abnormal, there's plenty for teams to like. He was coming off two consecutive sub-2.60 ERA seasons and five consecutive sub-3.30 ERA seasons. He owns a 4.00 K/BB since 2009 and filled in fantastically for Brad Lidge in the closer's role in 2011, saving 32 games.

Brandon League lost his closer's job last year and still pulled in $22.5 million this year. The pillow contract would have done its job if Madson posted even a middling 2012 season.

Madson, still recovering from Tommy John, is unlikely to be ready for the start of the 2013. season. Teams will be interested regardless. The Reds have already discussed a return, and loads of teams need relievers. The Brewers, Angels and Blue Jays all had major issues in the bullpen in 2012 but have visions of contention in 2013. They won't be alone. Any team can use a talented bullpen arm.

Where ever it is, though, Madson will be taking a second straight pillow contract. Hopefully for him, the landing is softer this time.

Potential Suitors: Reds, Brewers, Angels, Blue Jays

Long Shots: Marlins, Cardinals, Twins, Pirates

For more up-to-the-minute news and analysis on the latest rumors from bloggers Chris Cwik, Jack Moore and R.J. White, follow @MLBRumorsCBS.