Guthrie explanation
If you're still scratching your head about the decision to put Jeremy Guthrie on the 15-day disabled list last night, it's really not all that complicated -- though I consulted a longtime front office guy to make sure of that.
There really is no procedural reason to put him on the short DL with the major league roster limit at 40 for September, but there is a practical reason. The move removes any doubt about Guthrie's status for the remainder of the season and prevents him from persuading the team to let him make another start.
If you recall, I mentioned several days ago here that Guthrie's desire to get back on the mound (and maybe get to 200 innings) might not be the best thing for him or the team's long-term interests. I also made the point -- using a Casablanca reference that was a huge stretch -- that team officials should do the thinking for him.
That's essentially what happened, though I'm not deluded enough to think that team officials hang on my every blog entry and do whatever I suggest. We all know they should, but I'm not egotistical enough to think they do.
Comments
Is there one pitcher anywhere in this organization that DOESN'T have an arm/shoulder problem?
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Pete's reply: I don't think so.
Posted by: virtueandvice | September 16, 2008 1:36 PM
Since the Orioles are not going to put their best players on the field for the rest of the season, I will not attend anymore games this season.
Posted by: Donald Huffman | September 16, 2008 4:13 PM
I think it's in the best interests of the team as well as Jeremy that he put on the DL to end his season. what's the point of him trying to come back. It's like last year when he strained his oblique.
Posted by: Dave | September 16, 2008 5:52 PM
If they do listen to you, you might suggest they sign Tex, let Mussina finish his career here starting in '09 and sign another solid starter.
Just as a favor to us old time fans that need the O's to win sooner not later so we can enjoy it too.
Posted by: drbnic | September 16, 2008 5:53 PM
Is Ernie Tyler available for pitching duties? He handles the ball well, has lots of experience and gets closer to home plate than most of the guys taking home the big paychecks.
Posted by: Brad Phillips | September 16, 2008 6:38 PM
Thanks Dave from another old timer. I'm talking obstucted view (Memorial Stadium) old timer. So Mussina will only be able to pitch five per start. Hey he'll be right up there with the new generation.
Joe
Severna Park
Posted by: Anonymous | September 16, 2008 7:29 PM
Maybe I'm dreaming but I'm still holding out hope that Guthrie makes two more starts before the end of the year (Sept 22 or 23 and then Sept 27 or 28. It COULD still happen and I really hope it does - so he can avoid ending with a losing record and he can get to 200 innings.
Posted by: Wooley | September 16, 2008 7:44 PM