The Phillies embarked and a pretty impressive road trip in the last two weeks, after Myers went down with a likely season ending injury. Somehow, the Phillies got great pitching. Everything looked to be perhaps okay. Bastardo, Moyers and Happ all seemed to be doing well. Hamels even pitched a complete game and Moyers went 7 innings. But like all good things it came to an end when the Phillies returned home and faced the Red Yankees.
Now, perhaps the series was more about the Phillies problems at home as opposed to anything to do with the Blow-ston RedSox, but Bastardo's pumpkin was in full effect. Granted, one loss was in 13 innings, and Blanton gave up 2 runs in 7 innings, but the Phillies were pretty much depending on Bastardo to become a #2 starter. Now that some video has made its way around the MLB, you have to wonder what effect Bastardo will have.
Even if Myers was healthy, the Phillies would have been wise to look to shore up their starting rotation. The recent hot streak, convinced many that perhaps everything was going to be okay, but like Bastardo, that pumpkin has no wheels.
So what are the options? Peavy? Phils knocked him around a bit and he doesn't want to pitch here where he'll be exposed. So fuck him. Here's a team that even with the problems on the mound are competing for the top spot in all of MLB. Peavy doesn't even have any Hossa sense.
Personally, I hope Bastardo develops a change-up as he has a great last name. If he could do so, his last name will ring out amongst opposing batters.
Got to see him pitch vs Dodgers I think.
ReplyDeleteHe seemed to have pretty good composure, but not good enough stuff. A high 80s/low 90s fastball which he has decent control over, but a slider and change he doesn't and doesn't throw often enough. Cholly repeatedly was guarded in his praise.
It would be nice if they could rely on him, but this is about the worst way to develop a young pitcher. Keep throwing him out there because you have to and hope he stays afloat.
Peavy's out of the equation now, I think. But I think they need a power pitcher to replace Myers (Penny for Donald has been mentioned).
Saw that on many comment boards, you have to write Ba$tardo, or it gets removed.