Aaron Harang's Dodger tenure has come to an end, as he has been traded to the Rockies for catcher Ramon Hernandez. Harang is expected to be moved again, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports. It's mostly a salary relief type of deal for the Rockies, while the Dodgers are clearing up their cluttered starting pitching situation.
Harang inked a two-year, $12 million deal in December of 2011. He was one of the few durable starters for the Dodgers last season, posting 31 starts. In those, he went 10-10 with a 3.61 ERA, 1.40 WHIP, and 131 strikeouts in 172 2/3 innings. His WHIP was high thanks to a career-high in walks of 85, but his .246 BAA was just shy of his career-best .242 set in 2007 with the Reds.
While he proved to be a solid contributor to the starting rotation, the writing was on the wall that his days of taking the ball to start every fifth day were over. This offseason the Dodgers went out and signed Zack Greinke and Hyun-Jin Ryu to massive deals, and with Josh Beckett aboard from the Red Sox at the trade deadline, spots were scarce.
The Dodgers tried to compromise by sending Harang to the bullpen to start the season, but he supposedly wasn't thrilled with that. I can't say I blame him, as it was obvious that he can still be a starter somewhere, and that the Dodgers didn't really have a need for him anymore. We all know injuries can, and most likely will, happen, but with Chris Capuano also in the long relief role, the right decision was made to move him elsewhere.
In return the Dodgers get a backup catcher in Hernandez. He was DFA'd by the Rockies before Opening Day when he lost out to Yorvit Torrealba to be Wilin Rosario's backup.
Hernandez had a good couple of season with the Reds in '10 and '11 before moving to the Rockies last season. His numbers in '12 could be a big reason why he became expendable, as he hit only .217 with 5 homers and 28 RBIs in 52 games. The fact that he's turning 37 in May probably didn't do him any favors.
I would think Hernandez's arrival means that departure of Tim Federowicz to Triple-A for now. I'm not sure why the Dodgers would trade for Hernandez if that wasn't going to happen. I really don't see a need to carry three catchers. They could always keep both and get rid of Juan Uribe! But that's just wishful thinking at this point.
With Chad Billingsley due back to start next Wednesday in San Diego, the Dodgers will have another roster move to make. Plus there's the status of Ted Lilly, who's fighting his way back from shoulder surgery last year. In other words, the wheelings and dealings involving the starting pitchers does not appear to be done.
Showing posts with label Harang. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Harang. Show all posts
Saturday, April 6, 2013
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.
Sunday, March 10, 2013
The battle for the fifth starter
While plenty of Dodgers contribute to their team's success in the World Baseball Classic, back in Arizona, the Dodgers are still trying to figure out who will round out the starting rotation. Assuming that Clayton Kershaw, Zack Greinke, Chad Billingsley, and Josh Beckett are the first four, let's take a look at the men in contention for the last slot.
Hyun-Jin Ryu
3 games (2 starts), 6 IP, 8 H, 4 ER, 2 BB, 9 K, 6.00 ERA, 1.67 WHIP
I still contend that the Dodgers didn't sign Ryu just have him pitch out of the bullpen, but let's assume that nothing is etched in stone. As you can see, it hasn't exactly been smooth sailing for him, as evidenced by his high ERA and WHIP. What's definitely encouraging are his low walks and high strikeouts, a sign that the control is there. You have to cut him some slack to get adjusted to US hitters, so I think he'll be fine and get a rotation spot.
Chris Capuano
2 games (1 start), 5 IP, 7 H, 6 ER, 1 BB, 6 K, 10.80 ERA, 1.60 WHIP
These numbers come with a giant asterisk, as he went four innings against the Reds on Friday before rain washed out all the numbers. In that start, he gave up only one run on two hits, striking out three. Add it all up, his ERA should be 7.00, which isn't great, but a heck of a lot better than 10.80. He showed the Dodgers' brass last season how effective he can be at the start of the season with a fresh arm, so he still has a great chance of cracking the rotation. If his fragile arm can handle it, perhaps he'd be used out the bullpen as insurance against an injury to start the season as well.
Aaron Harang
2 games (2 starts), 5 IP, 11 H, 6 ER, 3 BB, 3 K, 10.80 ERA, 2.80 WHIP
There's really no other way of saying this, but Harang has stunk so far. Yes, it's only two starts, but he's really put himself in a hole with numbers like that. Here's another eye-popping stat: teams are hitting .440 against him. Yikes! At this point he sure looks like the odd man out, as reports surfaced that the Orioles and Brewers scouted him recently. I'd be surprised if he sticks around the Dodgers much longer, but as they well know, injuries can strike at any time, so maybe they'll keep him around a little while longer just in case.
Ted Lilly
1 game (no starts), 2 IP, 1 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 1 K, 4.50 ERA, 0.50 WHIP
It's hard to really evaluate Lilly at this point, as his first official start was scratched earlier in the week because of the flu. He's practically the forgotten man at this point, as he missed nearly all of last season with a shoulder injury, and would appear to have to do something special to get that fifth slot. I don't like his chances at all, but because of his solid track record starting, maybe he can impress the rest of March.
Hyun-Jin Ryu
3 games (2 starts), 6 IP, 8 H, 4 ER, 2 BB, 9 K, 6.00 ERA, 1.67 WHIP
I still contend that the Dodgers didn't sign Ryu just have him pitch out of the bullpen, but let's assume that nothing is etched in stone. As you can see, it hasn't exactly been smooth sailing for him, as evidenced by his high ERA and WHIP. What's definitely encouraging are his low walks and high strikeouts, a sign that the control is there. You have to cut him some slack to get adjusted to US hitters, so I think he'll be fine and get a rotation spot.
Chris Capuano
2 games (1 start), 5 IP, 7 H, 6 ER, 1 BB, 6 K, 10.80 ERA, 1.60 WHIP
These numbers come with a giant asterisk, as he went four innings against the Reds on Friday before rain washed out all the numbers. In that start, he gave up only one run on two hits, striking out three. Add it all up, his ERA should be 7.00, which isn't great, but a heck of a lot better than 10.80. He showed the Dodgers' brass last season how effective he can be at the start of the season with a fresh arm, so he still has a great chance of cracking the rotation. If his fragile arm can handle it, perhaps he'd be used out the bullpen as insurance against an injury to start the season as well.
Aaron Harang
2 games (2 starts), 5 IP, 11 H, 6 ER, 3 BB, 3 K, 10.80 ERA, 2.80 WHIP
There's really no other way of saying this, but Harang has stunk so far. Yes, it's only two starts, but he's really put himself in a hole with numbers like that. Here's another eye-popping stat: teams are hitting .440 against him. Yikes! At this point he sure looks like the odd man out, as reports surfaced that the Orioles and Brewers scouted him recently. I'd be surprised if he sticks around the Dodgers much longer, but as they well know, injuries can strike at any time, so maybe they'll keep him around a little while longer just in case.
Ted Lilly
1 game (no starts), 2 IP, 1 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 1 K, 4.50 ERA, 0.50 WHIP
It's hard to really evaluate Lilly at this point, as his first official start was scratched earlier in the week because of the flu. He's practically the forgotten man at this point, as he missed nearly all of last season with a shoulder injury, and would appear to have to do something special to get that fifth slot. I don't like his chances at all, but because of his solid track record starting, maybe he can impress the rest of March.
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, 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.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Kershaw to start both Opening Days
In a bit of a no-brainer, Don Mattingly said on Saturday that Clayton Kershaw will get the ball for both the season opener in San Diego and the home opener against the Pirates. With a four-game set against the Padres and an off-day before coming home, it all works out.
It's a pretty easy decision, as a home opener featuring Aaron Harang or Chris Capuano just doesn't sound as juicy as Kersahw. It's what the fans want to see, and from a baseball standpoint, getting Kershaw as many starts as possible on normal rest should equal more wins. I mean, duh!
Anyway, the first time we'll see the #5 spot in the rotation making a start looks to be on Saturday, April 14 at home against the Padres in the season's ninth game. It's typical for the early part of a season, as there seem to be a few more random off days than later on.
In taking a glance even further down the road, Kershaw could very well make another start on normal rest in Houston on Friday, April 20. That would again cause the #5 spot to be skipped. So, the next start for the end of the rotation would then be on Tuesday, April 24 at home against the Braves.
All in all, if Mattingly chooses to keep starting Kershaw on normal rest and skip the #5 start all of the month of April, here's how the starts will go:
Kershaw (6): 4/5 at Padres, 4/10 vs. Pirates, 4/15 vs. Padres, 4/20 at Astros, 4/25 vs. Braves, 4/30 at Rockies
Harang or Capuano (2): 4/14 vs. Padres, 4/24 vs. Braves
It's a pretty easy decision, as a home opener featuring Aaron Harang or Chris Capuano just doesn't sound as juicy as Kersahw. It's what the fans want to see, and from a baseball standpoint, getting Kershaw as many starts as possible on normal rest should equal more wins. I mean, duh!
Anyway, the first time we'll see the #5 spot in the rotation making a start looks to be on Saturday, April 14 at home against the Padres in the season's ninth game. It's typical for the early part of a season, as there seem to be a few more random off days than later on.
In taking a glance even further down the road, Kershaw could very well make another start on normal rest in Houston on Friday, April 20. That would again cause the #5 spot to be skipped. So, the next start for the end of the rotation would then be on Tuesday, April 24 at home against the Braves.
All in all, if Mattingly chooses to keep starting Kershaw on normal rest and skip the #5 start all of the month of April, here's how the starts will go:
Kershaw (6): 4/5 at Padres, 4/10 vs. Pirates, 4/15 vs. Padres, 4/20 at Astros, 4/25 vs. Braves, 4/30 at Rockies
Harang or Capuano (2): 4/14 vs. Padres, 4/24 vs. Braves
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Dodgers add Harang and move Eveland
The Dodgers made a couple of moves today that officially rounded out their starting rotation... and brought an end to Hiroki Kuroda's tenure in LA.
Aaron Harang was signed to a two-year, $12 million deal with an option for 2014. He will join Clayton Kershaw, Chad Billingsley, Ted Lilly, and Chris Capuano in the rotation of proven arms. Ned Colletti did not want to see young Nathan Eovaldi handle the #5 role this soon, so getting Capuano and Harang turned out to be of high priority.
The other move, albiet a minor one, was to trade Dana Eveland to the Orioles for minor league starter Jarret Martin and outfielder Tyler Henson. Martin pitched in Single-A, while Henson appeared in Triple-A last season.
For awhile, it looked like Colletti would add either Capuano or Harang. After Caps signed last week, I didn't think they would even want Harang still. Fortunately, I was wrong, as I valued Harang as the better pitcher all along. Neither one of them is as good as Kuroda, but that ship has sailed regardless of who signed.
Last season was a good one for Harang, who bounced back from a horrible 2010 campaign with the Reds. After going to the Padres, he went 14-7 with a 3.64 ERA and 1.37 WHIP. He was obviously a much better pitcher at home (3.05 home vs. 4.70 road), but geez, who the heck wouldn't pitch better at PETCO Park? I think my ERA would be under four there.
Why else were the Dodgers impressed with Harang? Well, in three starts against them, he went 2-0 with an 0.45 ERA. That's one earned run in 20 innings. I'd say that's pretty good. Granted, the Dodgers didn't exactly set the world on fire at the plate (minus Matt Kemp), but those are still dominating numbers.
With the rotation now locked in, what the Dodgers really need to hope for is that Billingsley and Lilly pitch more consistently than they did last year. More so Bills than Lilly, as he has yet to match his so-called "mega-talent" to any sort of steady success. Lilly was awesome in the final two months, but pretty awful in the first four.
Kershaw will be Kershaw, as he's a legit ace now. The Dodgers know they'll have a great chance to win each of his 30+ starts he gets.
Since scoring runs should still be hard on plenty of nights, the rest of the rotation will be counted on even more to pitch solidly and give the Dodgers a chance to win in the late innings. Capuano and Harang will be at the back end, and it's good to know that while they're not dominating by any means, they are good matchups against most other team's 4-5 pitchers.
Aaron Harang was signed to a two-year, $12 million deal with an option for 2014. He will join Clayton Kershaw, Chad Billingsley, Ted Lilly, and Chris Capuano in the rotation of proven arms. Ned Colletti did not want to see young Nathan Eovaldi handle the #5 role this soon, so getting Capuano and Harang turned out to be of high priority.
The other move, albiet a minor one, was to trade Dana Eveland to the Orioles for minor league starter Jarret Martin and outfielder Tyler Henson. Martin pitched in Single-A, while Henson appeared in Triple-A last season.
For awhile, it looked like Colletti would add either Capuano or Harang. After Caps signed last week, I didn't think they would even want Harang still. Fortunately, I was wrong, as I valued Harang as the better pitcher all along. Neither one of them is as good as Kuroda, but that ship has sailed regardless of who signed.
Last season was a good one for Harang, who bounced back from a horrible 2010 campaign with the Reds. After going to the Padres, he went 14-7 with a 3.64 ERA and 1.37 WHIP. He was obviously a much better pitcher at home (3.05 home vs. 4.70 road), but geez, who the heck wouldn't pitch better at PETCO Park? I think my ERA would be under four there.
Why else were the Dodgers impressed with Harang? Well, in three starts against them, he went 2-0 with an 0.45 ERA. That's one earned run in 20 innings. I'd say that's pretty good. Granted, the Dodgers didn't exactly set the world on fire at the plate (minus Matt Kemp), but those are still dominating numbers.
With the rotation now locked in, what the Dodgers really need to hope for is that Billingsley and Lilly pitch more consistently than they did last year. More so Bills than Lilly, as he has yet to match his so-called "mega-talent" to any sort of steady success. Lilly was awesome in the final two months, but pretty awful in the first four.
Kershaw will be Kershaw, as he's a legit ace now. The Dodgers know they'll have a great chance to win each of his 30+ starts he gets.
Since scoring runs should still be hard on plenty of nights, the rest of the rotation will be counted on even more to pitch solidly and give the Dodgers a chance to win in the late innings. Capuano and Harang will be at the back end, and it's good to know that while they're not dominating by any means, they are good matchups against most other team's 4-5 pitchers.
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