Carlos Quentin: Quentin took over the AL lead in home runs with 26 and is having an MVP type season. Based on his 2007 season, 5/31/.214 in 229 AB, and skills; 7% BB%, 76% Ct%, and 41% FB%, this season has come out of nowhere. However, the 25 year-old Quentin is showing elite skills; 11% BB%, 83% Ct%, and a 45% FB%, and great numbers, 26/79/.279, for more than half-season at an age when he should be making strides. This is obviously a real breakout season.
Brandon Morrow: Even with JJ Putz returning, it looks like Morrow will remain the Mariners closer. Morrow has been getting the job done, 9 for 11 in save chances, with closer-worthy skills, 11.8 K/9. However there are two areas of concern. His 3.2 BB/9 is acceptable, but he has struggled with control in the past, 7.1 BB/9 in 63.1 innings with the Mariners last year, and his 49% FB% is on the high side. Any bump up in his BB/9 combined with a high amount of fly balls could lead to some home runs with men aboard, which will lead to some blown saves.
JJ Putz: It looks like Putz will work in a setup role for the time being. In his two appearances covering 3 innings since his return from the DL, he has struck out 4 without allowing a walk. Prior to going on the DL, lack of control, presumably from his elbow injury, had been his problem, an uncharacteristic 7.0 BB/9 this year. If the stint on the DL allowed him to get the rest needed to make his elbow healthy, then Putz, who has much more experience and better skills than current closer Brandon Morrow, should have no problem reclaiming the Mariners’ closer role.
Jarrod Washburn: There are rumors that the Yankees are pursuing Washburn. A trade to the Yankees would certainly improve his chances at getting wins, but he will not be moving to a more pitching friendly ballpark. With shaky skills, 5.3 K/9, 2.6 BB/9, and 37% GB%, don’t expect any improvement in his 4.75 ERA.
Jesse Litsch: The Blue Jays sent Litsch to Triple-A. After a hot May, 4-0 with a 2.08 ERA, Litsch has really struggled over the last two months, 1-6 with a 6.12 ERA. He has pinpoint control, 1.5 BB/9, and an ability to induce ground balls, 50% GB%, but with such a low K/9 of 4.6, any kind of bad luck will be magnified. His bad luck came in the form of 17 home runs allowed in 115 innings and a 14% HR/FB%. Both numbers are out of line for a ground ball pitcher.
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