Posts Tagged ‘Pitcher’
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With the Rotation Ailing, Tim Hudson must remain the Constant AceMay 20th, 2008
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Before the season started, it appeared as if the Braves would finally have the pitching depth in the starting rotation that it lacked over the last few years. They resigned Tom Glavine, after five seasons with the dreaded New York Mets. Mike Hampton, who hadn’t pitched an inning since 2005, had a good spring training. John Smoltz was on pace to remain his reliable self. Jair Jurrjens, the unproven rookie right-hander acquired from the Detroit Tigers in the Edgar Renteria trade, looked very impressive.
After 41 games, the Braves are 21-20. Glavine was recently placed on the 15-day DL for the first time in his 22-year career. He has since returned to the rotation and finally gained his first win as a Brave since 2002 against the Philadelphia Phillies. Smoltz has been on the DL twice and is headed for the bullpen – his own personal decision – when he returns in the upcoming weeks. Hampton, still plagued by the most absurd injuries, has yet to pitch in a major league game, despite two full years of rehabilitation. Jurrjens has been a pleasant surprise, but nothing to rave about. And the other spot starters – Chuck James, Jo Jo Reyes and Buddy Carlyle – have been mediocre at best.