This is what coal miners are forced to do. For example, Peabody Energy ( BTU +0.00% ) has recently announced that it will close the Wilkie Creek Mine in Australia after the completion of the mine's strategic review. Peabody managed to stay cash-flow positive this year. However, the $6 billion of debt continues to put pressure on Peabody. Bottom line In my opinion, recent moves do not change the big picture for Alpha Natural. The upside for the stock is limited. The pressure from low coal prices continues. The debt remains at a significant level. Alpha Natural is diversified between thermal and met coal, but in current environment it brings little benefit. Alpha Natural's financial position is solid, but the company needs an improvement in coal prices to make a real turnaround. Until then, Alpha Natural will struggle to show growth.