Morning Dump — The Ides of March
By Editorial Staff
The race to become the Rockies’ fifth starter is being finished under the caution flag. None of the candidates have stepped up. The eventual winner is anyone’s guess. Felipe Paulino was once considered the front runner, but he melted down last week, causing the team to move him to the bullpen. Esmil Rogers has great stuff, but no consistency. Greg Reynolds has pitched admirably, but he’s been far from impressive. That leaves John Maine. Maine is a competitor with decent stuff. He is also injury prone. Still, he is making a push.
Clipped from: www.denverpost.com (share this clip)
"“I am not looking at the (fifth starter’s job). Obviously I know what the team’s needs are and ideally what they’d like to see from me. But I am not thinking about that.”"
Matt Lindstrom is working on a change-up, something he never should have abandoned. Lindstrom is an intriguing player. He has a ton of potential, but there is a reason why the Astros were willing to trade him for just Clint Barmes.
Clipped from: colorado.rockies.mlb.com (share this clip)
"“I’ve been really working hard on that [changeup]. Sometimes I get into counts where I would otherwise go with a different pitch, my fastball or slider. But I’ve been really trying my changeup, to see how hitters are reacting to it. If I can have that pitch, it’s going to be key to my success going forward. Fastball command is what I’m concerned about right now, then working my changeup in.”"
Rex Brothers was very impressive yesterday. Just ask NL MVP, Joey Votto. You heard it here first, Brothers will eventually close games for the Rockies.
It’s no secret that Jordan Pacheco is making a push to be on the Opening Day roster. He can hit and his defense behind the plate is improving. I think he has to make the team right now. They can’t ignore the obvious any longer.
The Rangers’ Chuck Greenberg has already been forced to resign. He helped buy the team late last summer — a mere eight months ago. The lesson here? Don’t mess with Nolan!
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