Pitching is Horrible: The Bucs own the major league worst ERA at 7.38 and second worst WHIP of 1.68!The bullpen has actually been decent while overworked, because the starters are really stinking up the joint. Last year they got off to a good start then faded. What happens if this group fades? Taking away the 6.1 innings from Burres and Penn (.615 batting average against) helps a little, but the fact that Duke is the only dependable starter right now (with Ollie probably shelved for a couple weeks) still doesn't bode well. Maholm has been OK, and Morton and McCutchen have been awful. Charlie needs to step up, he's my pick for Bucs Cy this year! Ouch! Calling Brad Lincoln ... can you hear me now?
Hitting is OK: Middle of the pack here ... there have been some unsustainable surprises in the lineup, primarily Ronny "Whole New Ballgame" leading the regulars with a .323 average, and Aki slugging .472! 'Cutch has swiped 5 bags early on, and the Bucs are tied for second in the majors with 10 steals in 10 attempts. And begrudgingly, I will admit that so far the John Russell Pitcher Hitting Eighth Experience seems to be rocking (see Cedeno). The lines of Andy Laroche (.222/.344/.333) and Jeff Clement (.136/.200/.273) are begging for Pedro and Pearce (and Tabata oh my), who are off to good starts in Indy.
It's a miracle that we're 4-5 right now (when you look at the minus 26 run differential). Let's see if three against the Reds at home this weekend can right the ship a bit. Duke, (maybe) Ollie and Maholm. Quality pitching please ... let's build some momentum before Eva and Princess come to town!
Beat 'em Bucs!
Beat 'em Bucs!
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