i dont know if he'll close right away, but should definately be considered for set up. I have no confidence in benoit right now, could give up a homer at any point.
leyland does like to throw pitchers in the fire. Remember when Chance Ruffin was on our team. His first pitch ever was with the bases loaded. There were many times when Al Aluburqurque was a rookie where he was put in during a bases loaded situation.
Valverde will be given another week or so to get ready. Last I heard, they assigned him to Lakeland (A). He was pitching to high school kids last week, so he needs some time to get ready....to at least see if he can still pitch at a major league level. (I have my doubts)
Dotel has a sore elbow and is not being used. So either Rondon (Tigers save an option by recalling him before 30 days) or Ortega who both are on the 40 man and pitching well. meanwhile I guess that opens a spot in Toledo for valverde.