MESA, Ariz. (AP) -- Kerry Wood has been named closer for the Chicago Cubs. Working out of the bullpen last year, the former ace of the staff went 1-and-1 with a 3.33 earned run average. Working out of the bullpen this spring he has looked strong.

Converted to a reliever last season to preserve his troublesome right arm and shoulder, the oft-injured Wood entered spring training in a three-way competition for closer after the Cubs moved Ryan Dempster to the rotation. Manager Lou Piniella chose Wood over Bob Howry and Carlos Marmol.

The Cubs also announced that Jason Marquis will be the club's fifth starter.