The good WHIP, plus the 2 really bad starts, indicates he's pitched better than the ERA. But he's been on the shelf twice already, that ain't good. Our rotation is not in great shape, that's for sure.
Why is everyone convinced the Phillies are parting with Hamels? They are a rich team and they need this guy desperately now with Halladay injured and Lee struggling.
Interesting question, but since we may have upgraded at both those positions I would argue that it isn't the type of selloff normally associated with a team who is throwing in the towel for the year.
The guy could still be throwing good but at 111 pitches you know fatigue is going to kick in very soon. You've got a guy in the bullpen with good numbers and he's fully rested and ready to go.
I see your side of it too. I just don't envy the managers those decisions. Sometimes it's just rolling the dice and praying.
Valentine seems to be attempting to boost the pitch counts a bit. Lester has already had 5 starts of over 115 pitches.
IRT the Hamels yank, I think it's just a tough call for the manager. You say leave him in till he gets in trouble. But how much trouble? I assume if the first 2 guys get on you pull him. So then you bring your setup guy in, but instead of a clean inning to pitch he's got 2 men on and nobody out. Maybe your setup man has great numbers in clean innings and not-so-great numbers with inherited runners.
Yeah, I hear ya...to me it sort of sounds like Manual just wasn't interested in getting into a big discussion with whoever asked the question on the whys and wherefores of pitch counts, like we do here...
I think most managers are still leery of a pitcher throwing 125 pitches or more, for health reasons and also, probably, because the number crunchers have shown them how most pitchers lose effectiveness at that point. Hamels was at 111 pitches after 7. Maddon also pulled Price at 112 pitches with 1 run allowed.
I think you're right. Halladay is on the shelf, Lee has a 5.10 ERA in his last 7 starts. They need Hamels very badly and as you say, they have demonstrated a willingness to pay premier prices.
Plus the odds are against the White Sox being the team we have to beat for a WC spot. The Rays, Baltimore and the Angels all have better records. The White Sox also have a good shot at winning their crappy division.