Cubs' set-up man Marshall having an all-star season

Too bad most all-star pitching staffs are mainly starters and closers, because if there were a spot for a set-up guy on the National League roster, a strong argument could be made that Cubs reliever Sean Marshall should be that guy.

The big lefty, however, is so far under the radar he makes stealth technology look ancient.

While Marlon Byrd and Carlos Silva are mentioned as possible all-star representatives, and deservedly so, Marshall's name is rarely brought up.

But it should be, and here are a few reasons why heading into Wednesday's series finale with the Pirates:

• Has held opponents scoreless in 31 of a team-leading 38 relief appearances.

• Has limited opponents to a .206 batting average.

• Has stranded his last 10 inherited runners dating back to May 8.

• Has fanned 43 batters in 38 appearances.

• Since April 24, he owns 1.61 ERA.

"It's been a good season so far," Marshall said, refusing to blow his own horn. "There's still a lot of season left and I still think there's room to improve, things I can work on and do better.

"Hopefully I can continue to do what I've been doing."

And what he has been doing is happily accepting whatever role manager Lou Piniella has asked for and becoming the most dependable reliever on staff.

"He's been a professional in everything he's ever done," catcher Koyie Hill said. "He's been a starter, he's been long reliever, he's been a setup guy - and his demeanor has never changed once.

"He never complains. He just goes out there and does his job and seems like he's happy to be out there."

Actually, he is.

"I like it," Marshall said. "I've settled into this role. I enjoy coming in for big situations."

"He's got a lot of confidence in himself and he should," Hill said. "He's got good stuff and he's got the ability to get hitters out."

Even those of all-star caliber.