 Thornton's 2007 season was a little busier before as he made 68 relief appearance with a 4–4 record and a 4.79 ERA and 2 saves.Thornton made 74 appearances out of the bullpen in 2008 going 5–3 with a 2.67 ERA and 1 save.Thornton made 70 appearances in 2009 going 6–3 with a 2.74 ERA and 4 saves.