Throwing pitches in the strike zone is not a measure of a pitcher. If you can't get outs, then low walks don't mean much. In his return to the bigs, Beavan's been getting outs. But it's not like it's better to walk 2 and give up 10 hits per 9 than to walk 3 and give up 9 hits per. It's actually worse to give up the hits, because they drive in more runs than walks do.
Since his return, in 28.1 IP, he's given up 22 hits and just 1 walk while striking out 18. He has only given up more hits than IP in one of those 4 starts.
You know how many outings he gave up more hits than IP in his first 2012 stint? Nine of twelve.
If he can keep the hits down, he can have success.
> 10 H/9 = chance at Carlos Silva
I'm not eager to see many more years of Carlos Silva, so I'd certainly hope for the lowered hits to continue.
As for Wilhelmsen, I don't expect us to move him back to the rotation, even though I find the thought intriguing. He's our Papelbon, who started basically his whole minor league career and has the stuff to start, but was so nails in the pen that he couldn't be pried out of it. The Bartender is toying with hitters with that 99 mph heat and crackling curve, and has added the changeup just to shame them. He COULD start.
But I don't see us letting him, and he's got value where he is. Beavan could have value if this hits continue to stay down. Vargas has value due to park and attitude. And Erasmo/Hultzen/Walker/Paxton are all hovering, with Erasmo hopefully about to land again (stupid injury bug...).
It's certainly a nice change to be on a great winning streak instead of a historic losing streak, though - what a difference a year makes. Hopefully all this talent we've accumulated keeps us heading in the right direction.
~G
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