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Friday, March 14, 2008
What does your starting rotation look like?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Inspired by Chuck James’ two scoreless innings against a formidable Tigers lineup, let’s talk starting pitching.
As the Boston Red Sox proved a couple of years ago when they sent Bronson Arroyo to the Reds because they thought they had too many arms and then regretted the move when a couple of guys broke down, you can’t ever have enough pitching. So I’m liking the fact that the Braves look to have an excess of starters at the moment.
The aces are there — John Smoltz, Tim Hudson and Tom Glavine — and Mike Hampton has been pain-free thus far (outside of a mild groin strain). As I mentioned above, James looked pretty darn good yesterday, and Jair Jurrjens has made a very impressive first impression.
Also in the mix are Jo-Jo Reyes, who’s had a tough spring so far; Buddy Carlyle, who gave up three solo shots on Wednesday; and Jeff Bennett, who pitched two scoreless innings on Thursday.
At this point, here’s my starting rotation:
Tim Hudson: The youngest of the “aces” deserves the chance to shoulder the No. 1 spot.
Tom Glavine: I’m a sucker for the righty/lefty rotation.
John Smoltz: He’ll keep those winning streaks started by Huddy and Glav going.
Mike Hampton: Gotta pencil him in here and cross your fingers.
Jair Jurrjens: He’s looked too good so far to keep him out of the rotation.
James, Reyes and Bennett are all likely to start the season in Richmond, giving them time to gain confidence and work on their consistency and giving those Braves a ridiculously strong rotation, and Carlyle could be moved to the ‘pen to take the long reliever/spot starter position vacated by Oscar Villareal.
So what would you do with this plethora of pitching? I’m not asking what you think Bobby will do; I want to know what your starting rotation looks like.
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