In an unsurprising move, the Dodgers have elected to buy out Chad Billingsley for $3 million on Friday, declining to pick up his $14 million option. He is now officially a free agent.
Considering Bills missed all of 2014 with Tommy John surgery and started two games in 2013, this was a mere formality. He's looking to bounce back from a partially torn flexor tendon.
Now the question turns to whether or not the Dodgers may look to bring him back anyway, albeit for a much cheaper price. It would have to be something along the lines of a low guarantee with performance incentives.
My initial though is no way. Despite once being thought of as on a higher caliber than Clayton Kershaw, he just never found the consistency on the mound that would make him a staff ace. In 219 career games (190 starts), he's 81-61 with a 3.65 ERA and 1.36 WHIP. The WHIP is on the high end, which shows the difficulties he's had keeping runners off base.
I can't see him coming back as a starter, but when you take into consideration the porous bullpen performance during the much of the season and especially the playoffs, maybe he can pull a Wade Davis and reinvent himself as a dominant setup man. He has 1,037 career strikeouts, so the power has always been there.
My guess it that he'll be looking to sign somewhere as a starter, so I don't see him in Dodger blue next year. But if that fizzles out, then maybe he can be talked into a relief role. We shall see.
Showing posts with label Billingsley. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Billingsley. Show all posts
Sunday, November 2, 2014
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
I think we've seen the last of Billingsley with the Dodgers
Tough news, again, for Chad Billingsley on Monday, as he learned that he'll have to undergo season-ending surgery on his right elbow. He tore the flexor tendon, so he'll be on the shelf for three months, start throwing in December, then should be good to go for Spring Training.
The team he'll be with in Spring Training most likely will not be the Dodgers.
Right now he's finishing out the final year of a three-year, $35 million deal he signed prior to the 2012 season. Next year the Dodgers will either exercise a club option to pay him $14 million, or buy him out for $3 million.
Considering how the last three years have gone, I would be shocked to see the Dodgers bring him back for that kind of money, even with billionaires running the club. Here's his numbers over the duration of his three-year deal:
2012: 25 starts, 10-9, 3.55 ERA, 1.29 WHIP, 128 K's in 149 2/3 innings
2013: 2 starts, 1-0, 3.00 ERA, 1.42 WHIP, 6 K's in 12 innings
2014: Nothing
I remember when both Billingsley and Clayton Kershaw were young, powerful pitchers coming through the Dodgers' organization back around 2006 or so, and at the time, it was Billingsley who looked like the ace of the staff. He had an electric arm, and the knock on Kershaw at the time was that he was a bit too erratic.
Well, two Cy Young Awards later, it's certainly Kershaw who's done the better of the two. Then again, Kershaw has outperformed pretty much everybody, so that's a tough comparison. Still, Billingsley was often his own worst enemy, as he would look fantastic for five innings, then hit a wall and get drilled in the sixth. He usually found ways to get the job done with a career 3.55 ERA, but a 1.36 WHIP is a bit high and shows how many runners reached base off of him.
You can never have enough starting pitching, something the Dodgers know more than any other team with the way they cycle through injuries. With that said, about the only way I can see Billingsley coming back is if the club buys him out, they reach a new deal for a lot less money, and he's given a chance to show how healthy his arm is in Spring Training of 2015.
Do I think that will happen? Nope. I think the Dodgers are at a point where they see a combination of a pitcher who was slowly starting to slip, plus a now long list of injuries. They can certainly afford to sign other pitchers who are healthier, and that's the route I believe they will take.
I wish nothing but the best to Billingsley in his surgery next Tuesday and recovery as he fights his way back into the Majors. I just don't think it will be with the Dodgers.
Saturday, June 7, 2014
Taking a look at the starting 5
As Zack Greinke gets ready to take on the evils of Coors Field looking for his NL-leading ninth win, a place where Hyun-Jin Ryu conquered last night in a 6-2 victory, let's take a look at how the rotation as a whole has been performing. It's not often I get to say everyone's healthy, so let's hope it lasts longer than like a week or two.
Clayton Kershaw: 4-2, 43 1/3 IP, 3.32 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, 55 K, 7 BB
Keep in mind the reigning Cy Young Award winner was on the shelf for six weeks with a back injury, so his innings will obviously be down. Also keep in mind that he's built such a high standard for himself, anytime he gets even somewhat touched up, it's a surprise.
With all of that said, he's still trying to find his groove after making only seven starts. Last year through seven starts he had a 1.66 ERA, and in 2012 it was 2.56. The major difference is that an injury this year completely disrupted his rhythm. He did pitch eight innings of two-run ball his last start, and if his curveball can be thrown with more snap, and he locates his fastball better, he'll be back to dominant. If there's anyone you can trust to figure things out, it's Clayton Kershaw.
Zack Greinke: 8-2, 72 IP, 2.50 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, 83 K, 16 BB
The guy who stepped up in Kershaw's absence was undoubtedly Greinke, although that's no surprise at all. He's a #1 on just about every other staff in baseball. He recently snapped his 20+ straight start streak of two or less earned runs, and has actually given up seven runs in his last two starts.
Still, if that's the worst thing that's happened, then it's hard to be picky about his results. To go that many starts in a row without giving up even three runs is just amazing. It was also very quietly done, as the Dodgers get headlines for all sorts of other reasons, good and bad. If there's one area he can make a slight improvement in, it's that his K/BB ratio in his last six starts (37/10) has been a little worse than his first six starts (46/6). Yes, it's hardly worth mentioning, but when this guy's control is on, 99% of the time he gets a win.
Hyun-Jin Ryu: 7-2, 64 1/3 IP, 3.08 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 53 K, 14 BB
Another guy who spent some time on the DL was Ryu, as he was gone for nearly a month with shoulder inflammation. He actually has some pretty crazy splits, as he has a 6.15 ERA at home, but a minuscule 0.95 ERA on the road. If the Dodgers get back into the postseason, you can bet Don Mattingly won't be afraid to have him pitch on the road.
His numbers are nearly identical to last year's, with slightly better K/BB ration, but a few more hits allowed as well. However, you know his home ERA will only get better, so it's hard to find a better #3 starter in baseball. Last year his home ERA was 2.32, so get ready to see more great starts out of him in the middle of the rotation.
Josh Beckett: 3-3, 66 2/3 IP, 2.57 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 63 K, 23 BB
You already know how great of a season Beckett's been having based on his no-hitter on the Sunday before Memorial Day in Philly. Who in the world would've ever guessed he'd be the one to throw the season's first (and so far, only) no-hitter? I doubt he even would've thought that.
There's no denying just how big of a season he's been having. He's eighth in the NL in ERA. Of his 11 starts, only three times has he given up more than two runs. Oh ya, did I mention he no-hit the Phillies? All of this has resulted in a more crafty, intelligent pitcher who's using his changing speeds and control to get the job done. I would expect his ERA to be somewhere in the 3s when it's all said and done, but even if it does, that means he's still having a great season.
Dan Haren: 5-4, 74 2/3 IP, 3.50 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, 52 K, 12 BB
On the surface, the #5 starter with a 3.50 ERA is something any manager would gladly take. He came out of five April starts at 3-0 with a 2.03 ERA. Plus, he only got better down the stretch in Washington last year, so things were definitely looking up.
Well, life hasn't been so good since then. He certainly hasn't been getting bombed, as the most runs he's given up has been four on two different occasions. The biggest problem has been the long ball, as he's surrendered seven in his last four starts. I don't think anyone expected him to pitch like a Cy Young contender, but with his ERA going up in six of his last seven starts, there's definite concern about how he'll hold up over the summer. Chad Billingsley could be right around the corner ready to take his spot. We shall see.
Overall Impressions:
I don't care how poorly the offense has performed, anytime you see the names Kershaw, Greinke, and Ryu at the top of the rotation, you like your chances to win. The encouraging thing is that Kershaw and Ryu are only getting stronger the more starts they get after injuries, and Greinke looks like an ace 9 times out of 10.
As I mentioned before, I think it will be real interesting to see where Billingsley fits into all of this once he's declared good to go. He has stated his desire to be a starter, and who can blame him? Save for a few bullpen appearances when he was younger, he's been starting games his whole big league career. Right now it looks like Haren is the one would should be most nervous since his numbers have gotten a little worse and worse. Do the Dodgers put both Haren and Paul Maholm in the bullpen as long relievers and see what they have in Billingsley starting games? It doesn't make a whole lot of sense to have three long relievers (Jamey Wright is the other one), so something has to give.
We'll wait and see how that all plays out. In the meantime, if the Dodgers can ever get guys like Hanley Ramirez and Matt Kemp on track, then this rotation will rack up more wins as the summer months heat up.
Clayton Kershaw: 4-2, 43 1/3 IP, 3.32 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, 55 K, 7 BB
Keep in mind the reigning Cy Young Award winner was on the shelf for six weeks with a back injury, so his innings will obviously be down. Also keep in mind that he's built such a high standard for himself, anytime he gets even somewhat touched up, it's a surprise.
With all of that said, he's still trying to find his groove after making only seven starts. Last year through seven starts he had a 1.66 ERA, and in 2012 it was 2.56. The major difference is that an injury this year completely disrupted his rhythm. He did pitch eight innings of two-run ball his last start, and if his curveball can be thrown with more snap, and he locates his fastball better, he'll be back to dominant. If there's anyone you can trust to figure things out, it's Clayton Kershaw.
Zack Greinke: 8-2, 72 IP, 2.50 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, 83 K, 16 BB
The guy who stepped up in Kershaw's absence was undoubtedly Greinke, although that's no surprise at all. He's a #1 on just about every other staff in baseball. He recently snapped his 20+ straight start streak of two or less earned runs, and has actually given up seven runs in his last two starts.
Still, if that's the worst thing that's happened, then it's hard to be picky about his results. To go that many starts in a row without giving up even three runs is just amazing. It was also very quietly done, as the Dodgers get headlines for all sorts of other reasons, good and bad. If there's one area he can make a slight improvement in, it's that his K/BB ratio in his last six starts (37/10) has been a little worse than his first six starts (46/6). Yes, it's hardly worth mentioning, but when this guy's control is on, 99% of the time he gets a win.
Hyun-Jin Ryu: 7-2, 64 1/3 IP, 3.08 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 53 K, 14 BB
Another guy who spent some time on the DL was Ryu, as he was gone for nearly a month with shoulder inflammation. He actually has some pretty crazy splits, as he has a 6.15 ERA at home, but a minuscule 0.95 ERA on the road. If the Dodgers get back into the postseason, you can bet Don Mattingly won't be afraid to have him pitch on the road.
His numbers are nearly identical to last year's, with slightly better K/BB ration, but a few more hits allowed as well. However, you know his home ERA will only get better, so it's hard to find a better #3 starter in baseball. Last year his home ERA was 2.32, so get ready to see more great starts out of him in the middle of the rotation.
Josh Beckett: 3-3, 66 2/3 IP, 2.57 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 63 K, 23 BB
You already know how great of a season Beckett's been having based on his no-hitter on the Sunday before Memorial Day in Philly. Who in the world would've ever guessed he'd be the one to throw the season's first (and so far, only) no-hitter? I doubt he even would've thought that.
There's no denying just how big of a season he's been having. He's eighth in the NL in ERA. Of his 11 starts, only three times has he given up more than two runs. Oh ya, did I mention he no-hit the Phillies? All of this has resulted in a more crafty, intelligent pitcher who's using his changing speeds and control to get the job done. I would expect his ERA to be somewhere in the 3s when it's all said and done, but even if it does, that means he's still having a great season.
Dan Haren: 5-4, 74 2/3 IP, 3.50 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, 52 K, 12 BB
On the surface, the #5 starter with a 3.50 ERA is something any manager would gladly take. He came out of five April starts at 3-0 with a 2.03 ERA. Plus, he only got better down the stretch in Washington last year, so things were definitely looking up.
Well, life hasn't been so good since then. He certainly hasn't been getting bombed, as the most runs he's given up has been four on two different occasions. The biggest problem has been the long ball, as he's surrendered seven in his last four starts. I don't think anyone expected him to pitch like a Cy Young contender, but with his ERA going up in six of his last seven starts, there's definite concern about how he'll hold up over the summer. Chad Billingsley could be right around the corner ready to take his spot. We shall see.
Overall Impressions:
I don't care how poorly the offense has performed, anytime you see the names Kershaw, Greinke, and Ryu at the top of the rotation, you like your chances to win. The encouraging thing is that Kershaw and Ryu are only getting stronger the more starts they get after injuries, and Greinke looks like an ace 9 times out of 10.
As I mentioned before, I think it will be real interesting to see where Billingsley fits into all of this once he's declared good to go. He has stated his desire to be a starter, and who can blame him? Save for a few bullpen appearances when he was younger, he's been starting games his whole big league career. Right now it looks like Haren is the one would should be most nervous since his numbers have gotten a little worse and worse. Do the Dodgers put both Haren and Paul Maholm in the bullpen as long relievers and see what they have in Billingsley starting games? It doesn't make a whole lot of sense to have three long relievers (Jamey Wright is the other one), so something has to give.
We'll wait and see how that all plays out. In the meantime, if the Dodgers can ever get guys like Hanley Ramirez and Matt Kemp on track, then this rotation will rack up more wins as the summer months heat up.
Saturday, May 4, 2013
Injuries, injuries, and more injuries continue to hammer the Dodgers
Just when you thought the Dodgers might finally be getting somewhat healthy again, add Hanley Ramirez to the list of the people we won't be seeing for awhile... again.
Playing in only his fourth game since returning from the DL with a torn thumb ligament, Ramirez hurt his hamstring trying to go first to third on a single, and had to be helped off the field. How bad was it? Don Mattingly compared it to Matt Kemp's injury to last year, which we all know completely derailed his season.
Ouch.
As a Lakers' fan as well, the Dodgers make that team look healthy. I never thought I'd see anything quite like I watched this winter and spring with Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash, Pau Gasol, Metta World Peace, Steve Blake, Jordan Hill, and Jodie Meeks all going down at one point or another. And that's not to mention Dwight Howard never really being healthy, either.
But, I was wrong. The Dodgers are already looking like an infirmary unit a mere 28 games into the season. Do the math, and you'll see that only 17% of the season has been played. Here's what Mattingly and the Dodgers have had to endure this season:
Zach Greinke (broken collarbone, out two months)
Chad Billingsley (Tommy John surgery, out one year)
Scott Elbert (left elbow surgery, return unknown)
Ted Lilly (strained rib cage, return unknown)
Chris Capuano (strained left calf, will return soon)
Stephen Fife (right shoulder bursitis, return unknown)
Shawn Tolleson (lower back surgery, out 3-5 months)
Now you can add in Ramirez to miss another chunk of time after missing about a month with his thumb injury. Plus there's Adrian Gonzalez getting scratched in recent games with leg and neck injuries. Mark Ellis is nursing a sore quad, and could quite possibly be heading to the DL. Carl Crawford is working through a hamstring strain and has missed three games, but did pinch-hit on Friday.
Kemp hasn't missed a game this year, but has only one homer and five doubles. In other words, it's obvious that he's trying to work through the bad shoulder that he had surgically repaired last season. Very Dwight Howard-like it seems. Commendable that he's playing, but a concern that the numbers aren't close to what they could be.
Any team that goes through injuries like this is bound to struggle some. But for a team that has a sky-high payroll and expectations, and a paper-thin bench, the Dodgers feel the sting of these injuries even more. I can tell you this: nobody feels sorry for them. They traded for the big names last season, signed a couple of big names this offseason, and practically declared this season World Series or bust. So far, bust is winning.
At some point, you would hope, the Dodgers will get healthy bodies back on the field at once. Maybe not completely healthy, but more than they are right now. I guess all they can do is try to hold serve and pray nothing else goes wrong. Can you imagine if guys like Clayton Kershaw and Kenley Jansen also go down? Yikes. Can't help but wonder now.
Playing in only his fourth game since returning from the DL with a torn thumb ligament, Ramirez hurt his hamstring trying to go first to third on a single, and had to be helped off the field. How bad was it? Don Mattingly compared it to Matt Kemp's injury to last year, which we all know completely derailed his season.
Ouch.
As a Lakers' fan as well, the Dodgers make that team look healthy. I never thought I'd see anything quite like I watched this winter and spring with Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash, Pau Gasol, Metta World Peace, Steve Blake, Jordan Hill, and Jodie Meeks all going down at one point or another. And that's not to mention Dwight Howard never really being healthy, either.
But, I was wrong. The Dodgers are already looking like an infirmary unit a mere 28 games into the season. Do the math, and you'll see that only 17% of the season has been played. Here's what Mattingly and the Dodgers have had to endure this season:
Zach Greinke (broken collarbone, out two months)
Chad Billingsley (Tommy John surgery, out one year)
Scott Elbert (left elbow surgery, return unknown)
Ted Lilly (strained rib cage, return unknown)
Chris Capuano (strained left calf, will return soon)
Stephen Fife (right shoulder bursitis, return unknown)
Shawn Tolleson (lower back surgery, out 3-5 months)
Now you can add in Ramirez to miss another chunk of time after missing about a month with his thumb injury. Plus there's Adrian Gonzalez getting scratched in recent games with leg and neck injuries. Mark Ellis is nursing a sore quad, and could quite possibly be heading to the DL. Carl Crawford is working through a hamstring strain and has missed three games, but did pinch-hit on Friday.
Kemp hasn't missed a game this year, but has only one homer and five doubles. In other words, it's obvious that he's trying to work through the bad shoulder that he had surgically repaired last season. Very Dwight Howard-like it seems. Commendable that he's playing, but a concern that the numbers aren't close to what they could be.
Any team that goes through injuries like this is bound to struggle some. But for a team that has a sky-high payroll and expectations, and a paper-thin bench, the Dodgers feel the sting of these injuries even more. I can tell you this: nobody feels sorry for them. They traded for the big names last season, signed a couple of big names this offseason, and practically declared this season World Series or bust. So far, bust is winning.
At some point, you would hope, the Dodgers will get healthy bodies back on the field at once. Maybe not completely healthy, but more than they are right now. I guess all they can do is try to hold serve and pray nothing else goes wrong. Can you imagine if guys like Clayton Kershaw and Kenley Jansen also go down? Yikes. Can't help but wonder now.
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Billingsley KO'd by Tommy John
Whenever Tommy John faces off against a big league pitcher, Tommy John always wins.
And so Chad Billingsley becomes the latest victim of the infamous surgery, as he will be gone for the rest of this year and a good portion of 2014. He was originally injured towards the end of last season, opted not to have surgery, and only lasted two starts this year.
It's a shame for Billingsley, as he really thought he was getting the results he needed with injections into his elbow to repair the partially torn ulnar collateral ligament. He rested the season's final two months, threw again in October, and felt good to go for this season. And he was good to go in Spring Training at least, as he didn't have any problems.
He had a couple of good starts against the Padres, picking up a win with a 3.00 ERA. All signs were encouraging... right up until he reported soreness during a bullpen session last Friday. And that, my friends, was all it took to put him on the shelf.
Now in his eighth year in LA, Billingsley has a career record of 81-61 with a 3.65 ERA and 1.36 WHIP. While those numbers are pretty good, I've always had the feeling that he could've done so much more. I remember a time when it was Billingsley, and not Clayton Kershaw, who was the Dodgers' future ace. My how quickly things can change. Of course, that's more a credit to how great Kershaw has been, but Billingsley has certainly not been the top-tier pitcher he looked like he could have been.
And now there's elbow surgery, which can go one of two ways. He can make a recovery and be stronger than before, which would be great for a power pitcher like him. Or, it can be yet another reason why his once promising career looks to be unfulfilled.
We'll all have to tune in next season to see which direction he's heading.
And so Chad Billingsley becomes the latest victim of the infamous surgery, as he will be gone for the rest of this year and a good portion of 2014. He was originally injured towards the end of last season, opted not to have surgery, and only lasted two starts this year.
It's a shame for Billingsley, as he really thought he was getting the results he needed with injections into his elbow to repair the partially torn ulnar collateral ligament. He rested the season's final two months, threw again in October, and felt good to go for this season. And he was good to go in Spring Training at least, as he didn't have any problems.
He had a couple of good starts against the Padres, picking up a win with a 3.00 ERA. All signs were encouraging... right up until he reported soreness during a bullpen session last Friday. And that, my friends, was all it took to put him on the shelf.
Now in his eighth year in LA, Billingsley has a career record of 81-61 with a 3.65 ERA and 1.36 WHIP. While those numbers are pretty good, I've always had the feeling that he could've done so much more. I remember a time when it was Billingsley, and not Clayton Kershaw, who was the Dodgers' future ace. My how quickly things can change. Of course, that's more a credit to how great Kershaw has been, but Billingsley has certainly not been the top-tier pitcher he looked like he could have been.
And now there's elbow surgery, which can go one of two ways. He can make a recovery and be stronger than before, which would be great for a power pitcher like him. Or, it can be yet another reason why his once promising career looks to be unfulfilled.
We'll all have to tune in next season to see which direction he's heading.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Billingsley is back as Federowicz is sent down
As expected, the Dodgers made official the roster move of activating Chad Billingsley to start on Wednesday. He will be replacing Tim Federowicz, who became expendable once the Dodgers acquired Ramon Hernandez from the Rockies on Saturday to be A.J. Ellis's backup catcher.
Billingsley made a rehab start five days ago for Class A Rancho Cucamonga, so he's right on schedule to throw against the Padres. Last season he went 10-9 with a 3.55 ERA and 1.29 WHIP in 29 starts. He was shelved late in the year with elbow problems, but avoided surgery. His latest injury was a bruised right index finger after attempting a bunt in Spring Training.
Federwicz only made one start this season, going 0-for-3 with a walk against the Pirates last Sunday. The Dodgers seemed to be satisfied with the Ellis-Federowicz combo in the spring, but that's obviously changed. Maybe the Dodgers got the best offer they could for Aaron Harang, so they went with another catcher in Hernandez. Or maybe they just don't think much of Fed.
Billingsley made a rehab start five days ago for Class A Rancho Cucamonga, so he's right on schedule to throw against the Padres. Last season he went 10-9 with a 3.55 ERA and 1.29 WHIP in 29 starts. He was shelved late in the year with elbow problems, but avoided surgery. His latest injury was a bruised right index finger after attempting a bunt in Spring Training.
Federwicz only made one start this season, going 0-for-3 with a walk against the Pirates last Sunday. The Dodgers seemed to be satisfied with the Ellis-Federowicz combo in the spring, but that's obviously changed. Maybe the Dodgers got the best offer they could for Aaron Harang, so they went with another catcher in Hernandez. Or maybe they just don't think much of Fed.
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
An updated look at the rotation candidates
As we currently stand, there are 13 games left in Spring Training. Here's another look at how the rotation is shaping up, as the battle for the fifth starter heats up.
Clayton Kershaw
2-2, 19 IP, 20 K, 4 BB, 3.79 ERA, 1.32 WHIP
Kershaw recently took a liner off of his calf, but as usual, wasn't affected at all. Rumor has it he's pretty good. 'Nuff said.
Zack Greinke
0-0, 5 IP, 3 K, 1 BB, 3.60 ERA, 1.40 WHIP
Obviously, this hasn't been the start to his Dodger tenure that Greinke has hoped for. On the good side, his elbow injury appears to be minor, with the only setback being that he might not be ready for his first start. After that, he appears good to go. With the money he makes, the Dodgers will take every precaution necessary, especially since they have plenty of other starters who can plug a gap in the meantime.
Chad Billingsley
0-1, 7 2/3 IP, 6 K, 3 BB, 7.04 ERA, 1.96 WHIP
The numbers are high, but the good news is that he's even pitching at all. I still have plenty of worries about Billingsley lasting all year, or with him being effective at all if he's not 100%.
Hyun-Jin Ryu
1-2, 16 1/3 IP, 18 K, 6 BB, 4.41 ERA, 1.35 WHIP
Ryu has gotten progressively better as he settles into pitching to MLB hitters. His last start against the Brewers he surrendered one run in 5 2/3 innings, striking out six while allowing only three hits. I really like him towards the end of the rotation, as hitters aren't used to him yet, and he has the stuff to matchup very well against other 4-5 starters.
Josh Beckett
0-0, 9 1/3 IP, 11 K, 3 BB, 0.96 ERA, 0.75 WHIP
Speaking of pitchers I like this year, Beckett is right atop that list. He showed last year that coming to LA has dramatically helped his career, and I expect him to be great this year as well. A full season in LA will show that he still can get it done, and very well, too.
Chris Capuano
0-1, 9 1/3 IP, 10 K, 2 BB, 10.61 ERA, 1.61 WHIP
Not the greatest of starts for Capuano, who hasn't gotten going at all. The K/BB split is encouraging, though. The longball has killed him, as he's already given up four, so if he figures out how to cut down on that, he'll be fine.
Aaron Harang
1-0, 9 IP, 4 K, 5 BB, 10.00 ERA, 2.44 WHIP
Yikes. It's hard to believe his record is even 1-0 with numbers like those, even if it is Spring Training. When opponents are hitting .395 against you, it's probably not the best way to earn a rotation spot. It's hard to imagine that happening at this point. He better get ready for long relief or another team.
Ted Lilly
0-2, 6 2/3 IP, 5 K, 5 BB, 9.45 ERA, 2.40 WHIP
Once again we have a candidate for the #5 spot who has awful numbers. Lilly has the most to prove, as he missed nearly all of last season with a shoulder injury. And like Harang, I can't see how he gets that last spot. Just ugly numbers to say the least.
Clayton Kershaw
2-2, 19 IP, 20 K, 4 BB, 3.79 ERA, 1.32 WHIP
Kershaw recently took a liner off of his calf, but as usual, wasn't affected at all. Rumor has it he's pretty good. 'Nuff said.
Zack Greinke
0-0, 5 IP, 3 K, 1 BB, 3.60 ERA, 1.40 WHIP
Obviously, this hasn't been the start to his Dodger tenure that Greinke has hoped for. On the good side, his elbow injury appears to be minor, with the only setback being that he might not be ready for his first start. After that, he appears good to go. With the money he makes, the Dodgers will take every precaution necessary, especially since they have plenty of other starters who can plug a gap in the meantime.
Chad Billingsley
0-1, 7 2/3 IP, 6 K, 3 BB, 7.04 ERA, 1.96 WHIP
The numbers are high, but the good news is that he's even pitching at all. I still have plenty of worries about Billingsley lasting all year, or with him being effective at all if he's not 100%.
Hyun-Jin Ryu
1-2, 16 1/3 IP, 18 K, 6 BB, 4.41 ERA, 1.35 WHIP
Ryu has gotten progressively better as he settles into pitching to MLB hitters. His last start against the Brewers he surrendered one run in 5 2/3 innings, striking out six while allowing only three hits. I really like him towards the end of the rotation, as hitters aren't used to him yet, and he has the stuff to matchup very well against other 4-5 starters.
Josh Beckett
0-0, 9 1/3 IP, 11 K, 3 BB, 0.96 ERA, 0.75 WHIP
Speaking of pitchers I like this year, Beckett is right atop that list. He showed last year that coming to LA has dramatically helped his career, and I expect him to be great this year as well. A full season in LA will show that he still can get it done, and very well, too.
Chris Capuano
0-1, 9 1/3 IP, 10 K, 2 BB, 10.61 ERA, 1.61 WHIP
Not the greatest of starts for Capuano, who hasn't gotten going at all. The K/BB split is encouraging, though. The longball has killed him, as he's already given up four, so if he figures out how to cut down on that, he'll be fine.
Aaron Harang
1-0, 9 IP, 4 K, 5 BB, 10.00 ERA, 2.44 WHIP
Yikes. It's hard to believe his record is even 1-0 with numbers like those, even if it is Spring Training. When opponents are hitting .395 against you, it's probably not the best way to earn a rotation spot. It's hard to imagine that happening at this point. He better get ready for long relief or another team.
Ted Lilly
0-2, 6 2/3 IP, 5 K, 5 BB, 9.45 ERA, 2.40 WHIP
Once again we have a candidate for the #5 spot who has awful numbers. Lilly has the most to prove, as he missed nearly all of last season with a shoulder injury. And like Harang, I can't see how he gets that last spot. Just ugly numbers to say the least.
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Bills has that good feeling
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| Hopefully this image won't happen again |
While the Dodgers have certainly made plenty of noise with their offseason spending spree, and more recently by announcing the launch of their own network, the injury bug remains a big question. In addition to the health of Matt Kemp and Carl Crawford, Chad Billingsley's tender elbow is an issue.
An issue that, according to the man himself, isn't one anymore.
In what should be considered good news (we hope), Billingsley recently was quoted as saying that he feels "absolutely great," as he was about to throw off the mound for the eighth time in the offseason on Friday night without any setbacks.
Considering that a partially torn elbow ligament usually requires the dreaded Tommy John surgery, this is great news... and equally scary as well.
For those of you who closely follow the Dodgers (and if you're not, what are you waiting for?), you should know that Bills hasn't exactly been honest about his health in the past. Last season, he went through a tough stretch in the summer before admitting to Don Mattingly that his elbow wasn't right. Some rest and relaxation did the trick, as he ran off six straight wins.
Of course, that was right before he was KO'd in August for good because of his creaky elbow. So the optimism for him going into the offseason wasn't exactly sky-high.
Rather than going under the knife, Bills chose to rest and receive patelet-rich plasma injections (don't ask me what that means because it's way too high-tech for me). It's encouraging that it seems to have been working, as he's been clocked as high as 94 mph back in October throwing simulated games.
The Dodgers already have plenty of starting pitching options. Clayton Kershaw is the ace, with Zack Greinke right behind. Then there's Josh Beckett and Hyun-jin Ryu, who are clearly established in the middle of the rotation. After that it's Ted Lilly, Aaron Harang, and Chris Capuano. There's been no movement on any of them yet, but it's hard to imagine all three staying with the Dodgers when the season starts.
The health of Billingsley will no doubt play a key role in the fate of the bottom three. Lilly is coming off of shoulder surgery, as his 2012 was practically non-existent, so who knows how ready he'll even be. Capuano has already undergone two TJ surgeries in the past, which means his left arm is always under some amount of pressure. Harang has shown the ability to start or go in long relief.
Pitchers and catchers are less than 10 days away from reporting to Spring Training, and all eyes will be on Billingsley. How he performs early in camp will go a long way in shaping the future of the pitching staff.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Injury updates on Billingsley, Kemp, Jansen, and Elbert
The injury bug has certainly nailed the Dodgers lately, so here's an update on what's going on.
Chad Billingsley - From unbeatable to possibly lost for the season, it's been a big turn for Bills in the second half. Stan Kasten has stated that he fears Bills will be gone for the season. An MRI confirmed more elbow inflammation. Right now they are waiting for the inflammation to subside before doing another MRI later this week.
Obviously the acquisition of Josh Beckett takes on even more added significance, as reading between the lines, the Dodgers don't look like they are planning on Bills making another start this season. Nothing is official yet, so we will all wait and see.
Matt Kemp - After running face first into the center field wall on Tuesday, Kemp is lucky that he didn't break any bones. Rather, CT scans and MRIs show only a bone bruise in his left knee and no fractures to his jaw. Not surprisingly, he's still pretty sore, but wants to get back into the lineup on Thursday. Whether or not Don Mattingly agrees with that remains to be seen, but expect him back soon. And also expect all Dodger fans to exhale a huge sigh of relief.
Kenley Jansen - The news isn't so good for the Dodgers' closer, as Jansen is out indefinitely with an irregular heartbeat. This is same problem he faced last season that forced him to miss four weeks. And when you're talking about missing a month or so this time of year, you're facing the real possibility of being out for the season.
The issue with Jansen coming back is related to the blood thinners he may be required to take. If he does take them, he will have to rest because of the bleeding related to playing baseball. Anytime you're dealing with heart issues, every precaution would, and should, be taken. Hopefully more news will come soon on this, as the Dodgers will have a serious hole at the end of their bullpen if he is lost for the year.
Scott Elbert - The news for Elbert isn't good either, as he's back on the 15-day DL with a sore elbow. It's bad enough that he'll probably need offseason surgery. The Dodgers only have one other lefty in the bullpen (Randy Choate), so this is obviously pretty tough to take. He had a 2.20 ERA in 43 games, so it won't be easy to replace those numbers.
Chad Billingsley - From unbeatable to possibly lost for the season, it's been a big turn for Bills in the second half. Stan Kasten has stated that he fears Bills will be gone for the season. An MRI confirmed more elbow inflammation. Right now they are waiting for the inflammation to subside before doing another MRI later this week.
Obviously the acquisition of Josh Beckett takes on even more added significance, as reading between the lines, the Dodgers don't look like they are planning on Bills making another start this season. Nothing is official yet, so we will all wait and see.
Matt Kemp - After running face first into the center field wall on Tuesday, Kemp is lucky that he didn't break any bones. Rather, CT scans and MRIs show only a bone bruise in his left knee and no fractures to his jaw. Not surprisingly, he's still pretty sore, but wants to get back into the lineup on Thursday. Whether or not Don Mattingly agrees with that remains to be seen, but expect him back soon. And also expect all Dodger fans to exhale a huge sigh of relief.
Kenley Jansen - The news isn't so good for the Dodgers' closer, as Jansen is out indefinitely with an irregular heartbeat. This is same problem he faced last season that forced him to miss four weeks. And when you're talking about missing a month or so this time of year, you're facing the real possibility of being out for the season.
The issue with Jansen coming back is related to the blood thinners he may be required to take. If he does take them, he will have to rest because of the bleeding related to playing baseball. Anytime you're dealing with heart issues, every precaution would, and should, be taken. Hopefully more news will come soon on this, as the Dodgers will have a serious hole at the end of their bullpen if he is lost for the year.
Scott Elbert - The news for Elbert isn't good either, as he's back on the 15-day DL with a sore elbow. It's bad enough that he'll probably need offseason surgery. The Dodgers only have one other lefty in the bullpen (Randy Choate), so this is obviously pretty tough to take. He had a 2.20 ERA in 43 games, so it won't be easy to replace those numbers.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Taking a look at the starting rotation
The one guy the Dodgers thought they'd get at the trade deadline, Ryan Dempster, ended up going to the Rangers. While the Dodgers did add Shane Victorino and Hanley Ramirez to bolster the offense, and Randy Choate and Brandon League to do the same in the bullpen, there's no question that the rotation is a bit of a question mark.
Let's take a look at the rotation going forward.
Clayton Kershaw (8-6, 2.95 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 143 K's) - The clear ace of the staff, Kershaw reminded everyone just how he won the Cy Young Award last year with a complete game shutout of the Giants last Sunday. That was very encouraging considering he was rocked by the Cardinals in the start before that. Another area he's improved in - he hasn't given up a homer in five July starts. He had 11 total before that.
With no Dempster in the fold, the Dodgers need Kershaw to be the Alpha Dog from here on out. He can match up with anybody in the first game of a playoff series, so he'll be leaned on heavily to get the job done. I do think there's a little more pressure on him because the trade was never made, but I'm not worried about it. He's as tough a player as there is.
Chad Billingsley (6-9, 3.89, 1.35, 106) - There's no question that Billingsley has been a much more effective pitcher since he returned from the DL. In his last two starts, he's 2-0 with a 0.69 ERA. In the five starts before that, he was 0-5 with a 6.21 ERA. So it's not hard to see that the rest he was given in the middle of July has probably worked.
But, as has been the case all of his career, just when you think he may have things figured out, he gives you plenty of reasons to think otherwise. That's just the way it is. But make no mistake about it - Billingsley could be the key to the Dodgers' postseason success from here on out. Imagine if he really does pitch well the rest of the year? He would make a great 1-2 punch with Kershaw. Or, it could go completely the other way, and with no Dempster, the rotation is even thinner and not nearly as feared in the playoffs.
Chris Capuano (10-7, 3.33, 1.22, 119) - There's plenty to like about how Capuano's season has gone... but there's also reason to be a bit concerned. Two starts ago he was 10-5 with a 2.81 ERA. But after being lit up by the Cardinals and Diamondbacks, his numbers have gone up. It's not unfair to wonder if his arm is a bit tired, especially with the injury history he's had.
Another reason for concern is that he's historically a worse pitcher in the second half. Last season, he was 3-4 with a 5.08 ERA and 1.34 WHIP. Over his career, he's 21-35 with a 4.98 ERA and 1.40 WHIP. Compare those numbers to 46-36, 3.70, and 1.29 in the first half, and you can see why I'm raising a red flag here.
About the only thing we can hope for is that those second half numbers don't pop up again, and his last two starts are just a bump in the road towards a great season. As of now, he'd pitch Game 2 or 3 in the playoffs. Whether that's a good thing or a bad thing remains to be seen.
Aaron Harang (7-6, 3.76, 1.38) - Speaking of coming off a bad start, that would be Harang. He got torched for seven runs in five innings against the Diamondbacks on Monday, and looked every bit the part of a #5 starter and not the #3 he was before that. To his defense, that's the most runs he's given up all year, and actually had four great starts in July before that.
I do have to remind everyone that while Harang has pitched well this year, I'm a little mixed on if we can expect a sub-4 ERA when it's all said and done. He did do it last year in San Diego, going 14-7 with a 3.64 ERA, another pitcher's ballpark if there ever was one. Not to sound too down on him, because I do think he's pitched very well this year, but I just wonder if he can be counted on as a #4 type of starter in the playoffs.
Stephen Fife (0-0, 1.46, 1.30) - He's only made two starts (with the third one coming up very shortly as I type this), so who knows if he'll be counted on down the stretch. But, much to his credit, he's looked really good in those two starts. He's held down the Phillies and Giants for one run each. Can't do much better than that.
With Ted Lilly on his way back, and even Rubby De La Rosa, I don't think Fife will be playing much of a role down the stretch. Of course that could always change, especially if he keeps surrendering only one run per start. Then he would be hard to deny.
Currently on the DL, but due back this season:
Ted Lilly (5-1, 3.14, 1.13) - If there is a silver lining to the whole Dempster thing, it's that the Dodgers are basically acquiring a starter in Lilly, who's been on the 60-day DL with left shoulder inflammation, and hasn't started since May 23. He won five of his first six starts before being knocked around a bit and going down with the injury.
Assuming Lilly comes back with full health, then I really like what he can do in the stretch run. Let's not forgot how good he was in August and September last year. In 11 starts, he gave up only 16 earned runs, and was clearly one of the best pitchers in baseball at that time. It's not like the Dodgers were playing for anything at the time so there was little pressure, but that's still pretty awesome.
I can see Lilly pitching anywhere between Game 2 and 4 if he's feeling good. I could be jumping the gun a bit, but if his rehab starts go as planned and he does return in mid-August, then he'll have plenty of time to get back into a groove. As you can tell, I'm excited about his return.
Rubby De La Rosa (Injured all year) - Remember him? Well, he's been out since last season with Tommy John surgery. Like Lilly, he also has been slowing coming back into action with rehab outings. He started 10 games last year, and had a 4-5 record with a a 3.71 ERA and 1.40 WHIP.
I'm not sure what we can expect from him this season other than depth. From what I saw of him last year, he does have good stuff, so maybe he can give some innings out of the 'pen. I'd be surprised if he ends up starting at any point. The only way that would happen is if there's more injuries. Let's hope not.
Let's take a look at the rotation going forward.
Clayton Kershaw (8-6, 2.95 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 143 K's) - The clear ace of the staff, Kershaw reminded everyone just how he won the Cy Young Award last year with a complete game shutout of the Giants last Sunday. That was very encouraging considering he was rocked by the Cardinals in the start before that. Another area he's improved in - he hasn't given up a homer in five July starts. He had 11 total before that.
With no Dempster in the fold, the Dodgers need Kershaw to be the Alpha Dog from here on out. He can match up with anybody in the first game of a playoff series, so he'll be leaned on heavily to get the job done. I do think there's a little more pressure on him because the trade was never made, but I'm not worried about it. He's as tough a player as there is.
Chad Billingsley (6-9, 3.89, 1.35, 106) - There's no question that Billingsley has been a much more effective pitcher since he returned from the DL. In his last two starts, he's 2-0 with a 0.69 ERA. In the five starts before that, he was 0-5 with a 6.21 ERA. So it's not hard to see that the rest he was given in the middle of July has probably worked.
But, as has been the case all of his career, just when you think he may have things figured out, he gives you plenty of reasons to think otherwise. That's just the way it is. But make no mistake about it - Billingsley could be the key to the Dodgers' postseason success from here on out. Imagine if he really does pitch well the rest of the year? He would make a great 1-2 punch with Kershaw. Or, it could go completely the other way, and with no Dempster, the rotation is even thinner and not nearly as feared in the playoffs.
Chris Capuano (10-7, 3.33, 1.22, 119) - There's plenty to like about how Capuano's season has gone... but there's also reason to be a bit concerned. Two starts ago he was 10-5 with a 2.81 ERA. But after being lit up by the Cardinals and Diamondbacks, his numbers have gone up. It's not unfair to wonder if his arm is a bit tired, especially with the injury history he's had.
Another reason for concern is that he's historically a worse pitcher in the second half. Last season, he was 3-4 with a 5.08 ERA and 1.34 WHIP. Over his career, he's 21-35 with a 4.98 ERA and 1.40 WHIP. Compare those numbers to 46-36, 3.70, and 1.29 in the first half, and you can see why I'm raising a red flag here.
About the only thing we can hope for is that those second half numbers don't pop up again, and his last two starts are just a bump in the road towards a great season. As of now, he'd pitch Game 2 or 3 in the playoffs. Whether that's a good thing or a bad thing remains to be seen.
Aaron Harang (7-6, 3.76, 1.38) - Speaking of coming off a bad start, that would be Harang. He got torched for seven runs in five innings against the Diamondbacks on Monday, and looked every bit the part of a #5 starter and not the #3 he was before that. To his defense, that's the most runs he's given up all year, and actually had four great starts in July before that.
I do have to remind everyone that while Harang has pitched well this year, I'm a little mixed on if we can expect a sub-4 ERA when it's all said and done. He did do it last year in San Diego, going 14-7 with a 3.64 ERA, another pitcher's ballpark if there ever was one. Not to sound too down on him, because I do think he's pitched very well this year, but I just wonder if he can be counted on as a #4 type of starter in the playoffs.
Stephen Fife (0-0, 1.46, 1.30) - He's only made two starts (with the third one coming up very shortly as I type this), so who knows if he'll be counted on down the stretch. But, much to his credit, he's looked really good in those two starts. He's held down the Phillies and Giants for one run each. Can't do much better than that.
With Ted Lilly on his way back, and even Rubby De La Rosa, I don't think Fife will be playing much of a role down the stretch. Of course that could always change, especially if he keeps surrendering only one run per start. Then he would be hard to deny.
Currently on the DL, but due back this season:
Ted Lilly (5-1, 3.14, 1.13) - If there is a silver lining to the whole Dempster thing, it's that the Dodgers are basically acquiring a starter in Lilly, who's been on the 60-day DL with left shoulder inflammation, and hasn't started since May 23. He won five of his first six starts before being knocked around a bit and going down with the injury.
Assuming Lilly comes back with full health, then I really like what he can do in the stretch run. Let's not forgot how good he was in August and September last year. In 11 starts, he gave up only 16 earned runs, and was clearly one of the best pitchers in baseball at that time. It's not like the Dodgers were playing for anything at the time so there was little pressure, but that's still pretty awesome.
I can see Lilly pitching anywhere between Game 2 and 4 if he's feeling good. I could be jumping the gun a bit, but if his rehab starts go as planned and he does return in mid-August, then he'll have plenty of time to get back into a groove. As you can tell, I'm excited about his return.
Rubby De La Rosa (Injured all year) - Remember him? Well, he's been out since last season with Tommy John surgery. Like Lilly, he also has been slowing coming back into action with rehab outings. He started 10 games last year, and had a 4-5 record with a a 3.71 ERA and 1.40 WHIP.
I'm not sure what we can expect from him this season other than depth. From what I saw of him last year, he does have good stuff, so maybe he can give some innings out of the 'pen. I'd be surprised if he ends up starting at any point. The only way that would happen is if there's more injuries. Let's hope not.
Saturday, June 23, 2012
It's time for the Dodgers to move Billingsley
Friday night was the last straw.
The scenario looked like this: the Dodgers had been on a three-game losing streak after being swept in Oakland. They jumped out to a quick 5-0 lead in Anaheim against a team they've always struggled with in Interleague play. Things were looking up again.
Then Chad Billingsley decided to do what he does best - flush it all down the toilet.
Once again, Billingsley showed the Dodgers and the rest of the world why he'll never live up to anything close to his potential. Then again, that's what potential is - you may have the talent, but you have yet to do anything with it. And that's where we are now.
I've said for the last couple of years that Billingsley isn't anything more than a #3 starter at best. Well, I was wrong... he's worse. He belongs in the bottom part of a rotation, if in there at all. The numbers back it up. He's lasted past seven innings only one, and that was in his first start of the year. Five times he hasn't even gone past five innings.
His numbers now show a 4-6 record with a 4.15 ERA and 1.40 WHIP. That's barely better than his numbers last year (11-11, 4.21, 1.45). In other words, there's really no reason to believe he'll ever make big improvements.
So, my solution is simple: it's time to trade Billingsley.
I don't care if people out there think he can be effective still, he's simply WAY too inconsistent to be trusted. One game he shows signs of life, the next two he stinks. Friday night was symbolic and scary all at the same time. You could almost laugh at yourself when the Dodgers spotted him a five-run lead, because you've seen him collapse before. Sure enough, he collapsed again.
Now is the time to see what they can get for him. I know the Dodgers have been linked to a couple of Cubs' pitchers, Ryan Dempster and Matt Garza. I'm not sure Theo Epstein has any interest in Billingsley, but he'd be worth dangling along with others in order to get a real pitcher to LA.
With Magic and the boys in town, I know Ned Colletti will have a busy, but fun, month of July looking at trades. He no longer has to be so restricted by the money situation, so he can make things happen. Moving Billingsley and getting another starter has to be one of them.
Before last season, Billingsley inked a three-year, $35 million extension that lasts into 2014, and has a $14 million option for 2015. The timing isn't very good, especially since the Dodgers showed faith in him, and instead he seems to only be getting worse. Depending on the team he'd be moved to, I can see the Dodgers eating some of that deal.
But so what? If that's what it takes, then go for it. I know it's easy for me to say, but if there really is a new regime in town ready to do what it takes to win, then this is a good first step to take. Trade Mr. Inconsistency and bring in someone fresh. It's time to make that move.
It's time we move on from Billingsley.
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Early spring rotation results
I know it's early, but the starting five of the Dodgers have all gotten a taste of Spring Training action thus far. Let's take a look at how they fared the first go-around.
Clayton Kershaw
3 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 1 BB, 0 K (vs. Rangers)
So far, so good for the reigning Cy Young Award winner, as he easily disposed of the Rangers. And it wasn't a B-level squad out there, it was the big dogs like Josh Hamilton, Adrian Beltran, Michael Young, and Nelson Cruz. Nicely done.
Chad Billingsley
2 IP, 1 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 0 K (vs. White Sox)
Bills kicked off Spring Training with a solid performance. His biggest focus is working on his mechanics, as he pointed out after the game that a smoother leg kick gave him better control. Let's hope it keeps up. He'll be the #2 starter behind Kershaw, so the Dodgers are counting on him for big things.
Ted Lilly
2 IP, 6 H, 5 ER, 1 BB, 1 K (vs. Giants)
Old Ted didn't start off so hot, as he gave up a couple of homers to the evil Giants. He had trouble locating his fastball, and apparently his curveball wasn't a whole lot better. Melky Cabrera led off the game with a homer, and Brett Pill hit a two-run shot after that. Not the start to the season you want, but at least he's healthy.
Aaron Harang
2 IP, 4 H, 2 ER, 0 BB, 0 K (vs. A's)
The damage was done in the first inning to Harang, as the A's got a two-out, two-run double from Josh Reddick. Harang was able to bounce back and retire the final four hitters. A right foot injury has limited him a bit this spring, so the fact that he was able to go out there as scheduled is a good sign.
Chris Capuano
2 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 3 K (vs. A's)
Capuano got the win as he threw an impressive couple of innings. The A's aren't exactly a loaded lineup, or even a decent one, but it's good to see the new guy take care of them regardless. The Dodgers had lots of inconsistency at the bottom of the rotation last season, so solid innings from Caps can go a long way.
Clayton Kershaw
3 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 1 BB, 0 K (vs. Rangers)
So far, so good for the reigning Cy Young Award winner, as he easily disposed of the Rangers. And it wasn't a B-level squad out there, it was the big dogs like Josh Hamilton, Adrian Beltran, Michael Young, and Nelson Cruz. Nicely done.
Chad Billingsley
2 IP, 1 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 0 K (vs. White Sox)
Bills kicked off Spring Training with a solid performance. His biggest focus is working on his mechanics, as he pointed out after the game that a smoother leg kick gave him better control. Let's hope it keeps up. He'll be the #2 starter behind Kershaw, so the Dodgers are counting on him for big things.
Ted Lilly
2 IP, 6 H, 5 ER, 1 BB, 1 K (vs. Giants)
Old Ted didn't start off so hot, as he gave up a couple of homers to the evil Giants. He had trouble locating his fastball, and apparently his curveball wasn't a whole lot better. Melky Cabrera led off the game with a homer, and Brett Pill hit a two-run shot after that. Not the start to the season you want, but at least he's healthy.
Aaron Harang
2 IP, 4 H, 2 ER, 0 BB, 0 K (vs. A's)
The damage was done in the first inning to Harang, as the A's got a two-out, two-run double from Josh Reddick. Harang was able to bounce back and retire the final four hitters. A right foot injury has limited him a bit this spring, so the fact that he was able to go out there as scheduled is a good sign.
Chris Capuano
2 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 3 K (vs. A's)
Capuano got the win as he threw an impressive couple of innings. The A's aren't exactly a loaded lineup, or even a decent one, but it's good to see the new guy take care of them regardless. The Dodgers had lots of inconsistency at the bottom of the rotation last season, so solid innings from Caps can go a long way.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Dodgers lock up Billingsley with new deal
With Opening Day this week, the Dodgers made a big move this week by locking up one of their best young pitchers. Chad Billingsley extended his contract by three years and $35 million. Other contract details include an option for a fourth year, and the rights to block a trade to 10 teams.
The Dodgers are obviously happy with the progress Bills has made, as he is slotted just underneath Clayton Kershaw atop the rotation. Last season he went 12-11 with a 3.57 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, and 171 strikeouts in 191 2/3 innings pitched. For his career of five seasons, he has a 59-41 record with a 3.55 ERA and 1.35 WHIP.
Before this deal was struck, the Dodgers knew they had their top two pitchers in Kershaw and Billingsley only signed through this season. Kershaw is a hotter commodity, so now that Bills is signed, the attention will shift to the southpaw. If he has a season anything close to last year's great numbers, expect the Dodgers to shell out even more money than this.
Billingsley will make the second start of the season against the Giants on Friday, April 1.
The Dodgers are obviously happy with the progress Bills has made, as he is slotted just underneath Clayton Kershaw atop the rotation. Last season he went 12-11 with a 3.57 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, and 171 strikeouts in 191 2/3 innings pitched. For his career of five seasons, he has a 59-41 record with a 3.55 ERA and 1.35 WHIP.
Before this deal was struck, the Dodgers knew they had their top two pitchers in Kershaw and Billingsley only signed through this season. Kershaw is a hotter commodity, so now that Bills is signed, the attention will shift to the southpaw. If he has a season anything close to last year's great numbers, expect the Dodgers to shell out even more money than this.
Billingsley will make the second start of the season against the Giants on Friday, April 1.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Early spring rotation results encouraging
It's hard to get too high or low when it comes to Spring Training, as the game results are as meaningless as they can get. But, if there is a reason to be happy, it has to be the work the rotation has put in thus far. Check out the numbers for the big 5:
Clayton Kershaw - 7 IP, 0 ER (0.00 ERA)
Chad Billingsley - 6 2/3 IP, 1 ER (1.35 ERA)
Hiroki Kuroda - 4 1/3 IP, 2 ER (4.15 ERA)
Ted Lilly - 3 1/3 IP, 1 ER (2.70 ERA)
Jon Garland - 3 IP, 0 ER (0.00 ERA)
Total: 24 1/3 IP, 4 ER (1.48 ERA)
A 1.48 ERA? I'll take that! It's still very early, obviously, so don't expect these numbers to remain so stellar. But, do expect solid production 1-5 as the season progresses, which is exactly what the Dodgers are hanging their collective hats on to make a postseason run.
Clayton Kershaw - 7 IP, 0 ER (0.00 ERA)
Chad Billingsley - 6 2/3 IP, 1 ER (1.35 ERA)
Hiroki Kuroda - 4 1/3 IP, 2 ER (4.15 ERA)
Ted Lilly - 3 1/3 IP, 1 ER (2.70 ERA)
Jon Garland - 3 IP, 0 ER (0.00 ERA)
Total: 24 1/3 IP, 4 ER (1.48 ERA)
A 1.48 ERA? I'll take that! It's still very early, obviously, so don't expect these numbers to remain so stellar. But, do expect solid production 1-5 as the season progresses, which is exactly what the Dodgers are hanging their collective hats on to make a postseason run.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
No arbitration for Billingsley
The Dodgers and Chad Billingsley avoided arbitration today by agreeing to a one-year, $6.275 million contract. The only two remaining players eligible for arbitration are now Hong-Chih Kuo and James Loney.
Billingsley had a lot to prove in 2010, as he was coming off a 2009 season that saw him slump so badly in the second half, he was left out of the rotation in the postseason. He responded very well, going 12-11 with a 3.57 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, and 171 strikeouts in 191 2/3 innings.
This season, Billingsley will be slotted towards the top of a strong rotation that includes Clayton Kershaw, Ted Lilly, Hiroki Kuroda, and Jon Garland. I expect Bills to be the #2 starter.
If Bills can put together another solid season and show some improvement in his numbers, then I would think the Dodgers would start to think more long-term with him (ditto for Kershaw). He put together a 3.31 ERA in 2007, 3.14 in 2008, and 4.07 in 2009. Even with the nosedive he went through in '09, he was still good enough in the first half to earn his only All-Star berth.
For now, the Dodgers will settle for a young pitcher who keeps the ball in the yard (eight homers in 31 starts last season), and has shown much better control (69 walks, down from 86 the previous season). If Kershaw continues his ace-like status, then he and Bills will be one of the best 1-2 combos in baseball.
Billingsley had a lot to prove in 2010, as he was coming off a 2009 season that saw him slump so badly in the second half, he was left out of the rotation in the postseason. He responded very well, going 12-11 with a 3.57 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, and 171 strikeouts in 191 2/3 innings.
This season, Billingsley will be slotted towards the top of a strong rotation that includes Clayton Kershaw, Ted Lilly, Hiroki Kuroda, and Jon Garland. I expect Bills to be the #2 starter.
If Bills can put together another solid season and show some improvement in his numbers, then I would think the Dodgers would start to think more long-term with him (ditto for Kershaw). He put together a 3.31 ERA in 2007, 3.14 in 2008, and 4.07 in 2009. Even with the nosedive he went through in '09, he was still good enough in the first half to earn his only All-Star berth.
For now, the Dodgers will settle for a young pitcher who keeps the ball in the yard (eight homers in 31 starts last season), and has shown much better control (69 walks, down from 86 the previous season). If Kershaw continues his ace-like status, then he and Bills will be one of the best 1-2 combos in baseball.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Billingsley signs for a year
Chad Billingsley stayed away from arbitration by inking a one-year, $3.85 million deal. His deal last season was for $475,000.
Billingsley had one of the strangest seasons I can recall a starting pitcher having last year. In the first half, he looked every bit like the ace the Dodgers thought he could be. His 9-4 record and 3.38 ERA earned him a trip to St. Louis for the All Star Game.
Then he plummeted in the second half, going 3-7 with a 5.20 ERA. He was also winless in his last seven starts. Any way you look at it, it was ugly. And quite shocking that he just flat out fell apart.
Bills did battle hamstring issues on a couple of different occasions, but he also said that a mechanical flaw was his biggest problem. I'm not sure I can totally believe that it's solely because of a mechanical flaw, but who knows. I just think things went from bad to worse, and he was mentally fried when it was all said and done.
Lousy end or not, he's firmly in the rotation this upcoming season, as only Clayton Kershaw and Hiroki Kuroda are etched in stone. The Dodgers are still looking to add another arm, but that shouldn't affect Billingsley from staying in the rotation. Let's hope he has his stuff figured out.
Billingsley had one of the strangest seasons I can recall a starting pitcher having last year. In the first half, he looked every bit like the ace the Dodgers thought he could be. His 9-4 record and 3.38 ERA earned him a trip to St. Louis for the All Star Game.
Then he plummeted in the second half, going 3-7 with a 5.20 ERA. He was also winless in his last seven starts. Any way you look at it, it was ugly. And quite shocking that he just flat out fell apart.
Bills did battle hamstring issues on a couple of different occasions, but he also said that a mechanical flaw was his biggest problem. I'm not sure I can totally believe that it's solely because of a mechanical flaw, but who knows. I just think things went from bad to worse, and he was mentally fried when it was all said and done.
Lousy end or not, he's firmly in the rotation this upcoming season, as only Clayton Kershaw and Hiroki Kuroda are etched in stone. The Dodgers are still looking to add another arm, but that shouldn't affect Billingsley from staying in the rotation. Let's hope he has his stuff figured out.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Trading for Halladay looks unlikely
The Dodgers would love to trade for a stud pitcher like Roy Halladay. Giving up Chad Billingsley to make it happen, however, has put a stop to any potential deal.
A source close to this situation was quoted as saying this deal appears to be "a long-shot."
GM Ned Colletti had this quote about acquiring starting pitching:
As with the case of any trade rumor, you never know what will happen in the end. I don't think anybody saw the Dodgers getting Manny Ramirez at the trade deadline in 2008, but it happened at the last minute. If you're a fan of this deal, then keep the faith, because anything is possible.
A source close to this situation was quoted as saying this deal appears to be "a long-shot."
GM Ned Colletti had this quote about acquiring starting pitching:
"We would like to improve our pitching, especially starting pitching. I don't believe we can subtract from it in order to improve it."While Billingsley certainly had his struggles in the second half of '09, his excellent first half, good enough to earn him an All-Star berth, is a big reason why the Dodgers don't want to throw in the towel with him.
As with the case of any trade rumor, you never know what will happen in the end. I don't think anybody saw the Dodgers getting Manny Ramirez at the trade deadline in 2008, but it happened at the last minute. If you're a fan of this deal, then keep the faith, because anything is possible.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Will Cliff Lee become a Dodger?
The hottest rumor of the day has been a proposed deal that would send Cliff Lee and Victor Martinez to the Dodgers for James Loney, prospects, and either Chad Billingsley or Clayton Kershaw. Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports wrote about this earlier today, calling it "serious discussions" between the two.
As time went on throughout the day, it's been pretty much all but shot down as false.
The major reason seems to be the part about giving up Billingsley or Kershaw. It seems to me that the Indians would be more than willing to get one of them to replace Lee, who will be a free agent after the 2010 season. That would be good for the Dodgers, but he's 30, and Billingsley and Kershaw are 25 and 21, respectively.
Would the Dodgers actually be willing to part with one of their young, stud pitchers? I would highly doubt it, even if it was Lee coming in return. Billingsley was an All-Star this year, and Kershaw isn't far behind. They can easily become a top 1-2 combination in the majors in no time. Trading away one of those parts would be pretty big.
About the only part of this deal I would like is Victor Martinez for James Loney. Don't get me wrong, I like Loney. His defense is excellent, he's young, and for the most part hits for a good average. But, he has little power, and hits into too many double plays. Good player, but can be expendable for the right price.
Martinez, on the other hand, can hit for 20-25 homers, and has a higher on-base percentage. He was an All-Star this season as a catcher, but has played almost as many games at first. He'd be a good power threat no matter where he'd be in the lineup.
Who knows how serious this deal ever was, or will be, so this could all be a giant waste of time. What does seem certain is the Dodgers have interest in Lee. Will they put together any sort of deal? With the trade deadline approaching, we will soon find out.
As time went on throughout the day, it's been pretty much all but shot down as false.
The major reason seems to be the part about giving up Billingsley or Kershaw. It seems to me that the Indians would be more than willing to get one of them to replace Lee, who will be a free agent after the 2010 season. That would be good for the Dodgers, but he's 30, and Billingsley and Kershaw are 25 and 21, respectively.
Would the Dodgers actually be willing to part with one of their young, stud pitchers? I would highly doubt it, even if it was Lee coming in return. Billingsley was an All-Star this year, and Kershaw isn't far behind. They can easily become a top 1-2 combination in the majors in no time. Trading away one of those parts would be pretty big.
About the only part of this deal I would like is Victor Martinez for James Loney. Don't get me wrong, I like Loney. His defense is excellent, he's young, and for the most part hits for a good average. But, he has little power, and hits into too many double plays. Good player, but can be expendable for the right price.
Martinez, on the other hand, can hit for 20-25 homers, and has a higher on-base percentage. He was an All-Star this season as a catcher, but has played almost as many games at first. He'd be a good power threat no matter where he'd be in the lineup.
Who knows how serious this deal ever was, or will be, so this could all be a giant waste of time. What does seem certain is the Dodgers have interest in Lee. Will they put together any sort of deal? With the trade deadline approaching, we will soon find out.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Dodgers land 3 All-Star berths
Congratulations to Chad Billingsley, Jonathan Broxton, and Orlando Hudson for earning a trip to St. Louis for the All-Star Game on July 14.
Billingsley has been an ace for the Dodgers this season with a current record of 9-4. His ERA, BAA, and K's are in the top 10 of the National League. His development into the main guy on the staff has been huge as the Dodgers lost Derek Lowe, Brad Penny, and Greg Maddux from last season.
Broxton has just been an absolute monster this year. He has 20 saves, blown only two, and has gathered six wins. Like Bills, he's stepped up into a key role after the departure of Takashi Saito. Simply one of the best closers in the game, and only getting better.
Hudson is one of two reserve second basemen along with Freddy Sanchez of the Pirates. O-Dog has been a fantastic signing this offseason, as his glove has been every bit the Gold Glove that it's been in the past. A very rough June at the plate has made his average tailspin to .288 (it was .332 on June 1), but he's still a key component in front of Manny Ramirez.
Billingsley has been an ace for the Dodgers this season with a current record of 9-4. His ERA, BAA, and K's are in the top 10 of the National League. His development into the main guy on the staff has been huge as the Dodgers lost Derek Lowe, Brad Penny, and Greg Maddux from last season.
Broxton has just been an absolute monster this year. He has 20 saves, blown only two, and has gathered six wins. Like Bills, he's stepped up into a key role after the departure of Takashi Saito. Simply one of the best closers in the game, and only getting better.
Hudson is one of two reserve second basemen along with Freddy Sanchez of the Pirates. O-Dog has been a fantastic signing this offseason, as his glove has been every bit the Gold Glove that it's been in the past. A very rough June at the plate has made his average tailspin to .288 (it was .332 on June 1), but he's still a key component in front of Manny Ramirez.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Billingsley nursing a sore groin
Chad Billingsley's injured groin may be worse than expected. He's already been scratched from his start Sunday against the Padres. He'll instead aim to throw a simulated Minor League game that day if he's feeling better.
This isn't exactly good news for the Dodgers. They're having a heck of a time finding a quality 5th starter since scrubs like Eric Milton, Shawn Estes, and Claudio Vargas are pitching like... well, scrubs. Now they're worried that their #3 guy won't be ready to pitch April 8 in San Diego.
He did throw 15 pitches today on flat ground, so I guess that's some progress. It would suck if he had to miss any time when the season starts, but if he does, hope that it's just one start and nothing more.
This isn't exactly good news for the Dodgers. They're having a heck of a time finding a quality 5th starter since scrubs like Eric Milton, Shawn Estes, and Claudio Vargas are pitching like... well, scrubs. Now they're worried that their #3 guy won't be ready to pitch April 8 in San Diego.
He did throw 15 pitches today on flat ground, so I guess that's some progress. It would suck if he had to miss any time when the season starts, but if he does, hope that it's just one start and nothing more.
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