Monday, September 14, 2009

Pedro Deserves the Nod - For Now

A lot has been discussed about the rotation for the postseason. After Pedro had the two shortened starts due to rain, and Jamie Moyer came along to have two outstanding performances, finishing both games (2-0) and only giving up 1 earned run in those two outings. Then came Pedro. "The Daddy" has had to unbelievable performances in two of his last three starts (3-0) pitching eight shutout innings against the SF Giants' (facing their ace Tim Lincecum) and after a quality start against the Nationals, Pedro took over during a nationally televised Sunday night game against his for Mets to shut them down over eight innings and throwing 130 pitches.

What about JA Happ you may ask? Well, to be totally honest with you, if you had asked me this question two weeks ago, I would have gone with Happ in a heartbeat. But given the fact Happ has missed his last two starts with an oblique strain and Pedro has been phenominal, Pedro has to get the nod - for now.

While Pedro faced the media about his most recent success, JA Happ was throwing a bullpen session of 55 pitches at Citizens Bank Park today and reported nothing but "feeling good," he told the Philadelphia Inquirer.

The one key factor that may hurt Happ's chances on taking that fourth postseason rotation spot is the lack of lefties in the bullpen. The bullpen is struggling now and with JC Romero not sure of a return, and Scott Eyre nursing a sore elbow, a lefty is what the bullpen needs. And we all know what helps make a championship team - a stellar bullpen!

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