Dusty Quote on the Pen

[The Duke]

As per CTR's blog

Reds manager Dusty Baker said he stuck with Jeremy Affeldt in the ninth inning because he was hoping not to use another reliever in the ninth because rookie Johnny Cueto is scheduled to pitch today and then the Phillies come in town and there could be some need to get to the bullpen this weekend.

I really, really, really like that. He is willing to stick with guys and try to let them get out of a jam, unlike our previous few maangers who wanted to put in a new reliever every time one threw one bad pitch. I am a big proponent of letting pitchers going whole innings unless they just look absolutely terrible or are throwing nothing but balls. This wil save bllpen arms, and let the guys know that he has confidence in their abilities to let them try to work themselves out of a jam.

Had Affeldt given up a run ten he would likely ahve been pulled, but he didn't, and I really think that if they brought in another reliever there, at least one run would have scored.

[sabo3b17]

Oh yes and by giving your pitchers a chance to work out of jams, imo i think it also will add sorta an edge and toughness to them, and they wont be scared to make a tiny mistake. That should in turn make them a better pitcher, lets hope lol.

[jake2bake4]

I agree with you all that showing confidence in your pitcher is a smart idea. You want them to know they are expected to pitch well and they will be given every chance to succeed.

And thinking about the upcoming series is a great move to. Of course we want to win every game possible but you need to think about the entire season.

[The Duke]

Through 3 games, I love the way Dusty has been managing the pen. I think everybody has pitched now, and no one went back to back days yet.

[columbusbengal]

Apr 3, 2008 11:11:58 GMT -5 sabo3b17 said:

Oh yes and by giving your pitchers a chance to work out of jams, imo i think it also will add sorta an edge and toughness to them, and they wont be scared to make a tiny mistake.

That is true, I think. However, every time they DON'T get out of that jam, it ruiins their confidence and makes them more afraid to make a tiny mistake. I fear that trying to get out of a bases loaded jam without a run scoring is more likely to result in failure than success.