Making his spring debut, Chad Qualls gave up two runs and three hits in his inning versus the Braves on Sunday. This after he took a blown save in an intrasquad game last week. With Jesse Crain likely to start off on the DL, Qualls is the clear favorite to begin the season as the Astros' closer. However, if he struggles this month, the door will be open for Josh Fields.

Astros manager Bo Porter said Monday that the team's closer role is "totally open." "We'll figure out as the course of spring goes on and the season goes on who's best suited for that role, but it will be collectively a group effort to get those late outs in the back end of the game," Porter said. "I think it's totally open because I think competition brings out the best in all of us." Porter listed Jesse Crain, Chad Qualls, Josh Fields and Matt Albers as possibilities for the role. Crain would probably be the favorite if he was healthy, but he's set to begin the year on the DL. Porter mentioned closing experience and the ability to induce grounders as characteristics he'd like in his ninth inning man, which sure makes it sound like Qualls has the leg up for the gig.

Astros signed RHP Chad Qualls to a two-year, $9.5 million contract. The deal includes a club option for 2016. The right-hander fell on hard times in 2012 but rebounded to post a 2.61 ERA and 1.23 WHIP as a middle reliever with the Marlins this past season. Qualls, who saved 24 games as recently as 2009, could also see some late-game action with Houston.

Marlins activated RHP Chad Qualls from the paternity leave list. Qualls returns to a 2.89 ERA over 27 relief appearances this season. He'll resume a setup role.

Marlins placed RHP Chad Qualls on the paternity leave list. Qualls has a 2.89 ERA over 27 appearances with the Marlins this season. Tom Koehler has been recalled to replace him on the active roster.

Marlins purchased the contract of RHP Chad Qualls from Triple-A New Orleans. Qualls earned a spot by posting a 2.70 ERA and 6/2 K/BB ratio in 6 2/3 innings during Grapefruit League play. He'll work the middle innings.

Chad Qualls has earned a spot in the Marlins' bullpen. Qualls, a non-roster invitee, has a 2.70 ERA and 6/2 K/BB ratio in 6 2/3 innings during Grapefruit League play. The 34-year-old is coming off a disappointing 5.33 ERA and 27/14 K/BB ratio between the Yankees, Pirates and Phillies last season. He'll pitch in middle relief for Miami.

Marlins signed RHP Chad Qualls to a minor league contract. The deal includes an invitation to spring training. The 34-year-old reliever posted a disappointing 5.33 ERA, 1.47 WHIP and 27/14 K/BB ratio over 52 1/3 innings for three different teams in 2012. He'll compete for a middle relief role with the Marlins.

Pirates activated RHP Chad Qualls from the 15-day disabled list. Qualls had been out since late August with a toe injury. He'll return to middle relief duty.

Pirates placed RHP Chad Qualls on the 15 day disabled list, retroactive to August 25, with a left toe injury. The Pirates needed to clear a roster spot for Hisanori Takahashi, so this likely isn't a major concern. Qualls figures to be activated from the DL and return to the bullpen when first eligible.