Russ Ohlendorf – The Pirates continue to get strong starting pitching. This time it came in the form of Russ Ohlendorf, who over 6 IP allowed just 2 hits, 1 ER, 0 BB, and struck out 5. His ERA is now 3.77. If Ohlendorf pitches like that every time out there’s no doubt he can continue his success, but it does not look like he will. He is a good GB/FB pitcher with that ratio being 1.44 currently and 1.35 over his career. However, I’m not sure that does enough to offset is low K rate; he is striking out just 4.60 batters per 9. As a result, his current BABIP of .244 will surely rise to near Ohlendorf’s career mark of .322. Likewise, his LOB% of 74.4% will likely fall to near his career mark of 69.5%. When this happens, there obviously will be a rise in Ohlendorf’s ERA and WHIP, although his stinginess in giving out walks (1.88/9) should help to somewhat limit that damage.
Chipper Jones – Chipper was 2-3 with 2 doubles last night; he also added 2 walks. His EYE is now a very impressive 1.47; it was 1.48 last season. Jones’ average is now up to .305 and with that EYE we should expect to see it continue to rise. We should also see a rise in his power numbers, as his current HR/FB% of 10.3% is well below his career mark 17.5%, which he also posted in the previous two seasons.
Trevor Hoffman – Hoffman has been rock solid for the Brewers since returning from the DL, recording 7 saves in as many opportunities. Hoffman’s K rate has been solid once again leading to an excellent K/BB ratio of 8. Perhaps more impressive has been Hoffman’s ability to get the ground ball – 61.1% of the time. That has helped Hoffman to a lucky BABIP of .171. I believe Hoffman’s K/BB ratio will continue to be very good, making him a solid closer. However, Hoffman has induced ground balls just 34% of the time over his career with a GB/FB ratio of .75, well below his current ratio of 1.83. So, I don’t think that will continue, and Hoffman will start to get hit a bit more once he starts allowing more line drives and fly balls. If that does continue, though, Hoffman will have an all star type season.
Mike Gonzalez - After a rough last outing, Gonzalez came in to close out the Mets-Braves 12 inning affair last night. All went smoothly as Gonzalez allowed just one hit, and he struck out 2 batters. He has 21 K’s to just 5 BB this season, and if he is given the chance he should rebound to a somewhat rocky start. His BABIP of .341 and LOB% of 68.2% are both very unlucky, and when they normalize Gonzalez’s ERA should drop well under 3.
There are over 100 player news blurbs posted in the member area each morning. Members can read the rest of today's player news by clicking here. Not a member? Join today.
