Friday, March 27, 2009

Feeling good about pitching

Lowe has had consecutive stellar outings this spring, posting big strike out numbers and as always keeping the ball on the ground. He'll prove to be a work horse and a solid #1 starter. I'm predicting 18 wins.

Kenshin Kawakami had another great outing this week. We have him for three years so I hope he continues to impress. I do worry a little that his early success is a product of not being seen, and eventually major league hitters will figure him out (see Nomo). But for now lets enjoy the fact that he has great command and a ridiculous curveball. We'll give Kenshin 15 wins after a hot start.

JJ, all indications are that he has the "make-up" (whatever the hell that means) not to be overwhelmed by his early success. He's expected to have a sophomore year as great or better than his rookie one. My thought is, that he was our best last year, and any kid that has had to carry a team has gotten all the seasoning necessary. It's just a matter of performance now. Jiar is good at least 13 again, but I expect 15.

Vazquez, solid spring as expected. Bobby Cox is in love with this guy. He'll eat the innings like a solid 3-4 starter should. But don't be surprised if he does more. All the talk is that he's a perennial underachiever. But he's got great stuff and appears to be in a much better environment now. 16 wins would be nice.

Tommy G, well he's Glavine. We know what we've got and if he's healthy, he'll be a real asset in the 5 spot. I don't predict as many starts as most starters. Expect 12 wins, anything more is gravy, anything less and we've got Hanson waiting.

Don't forget about Huddy. Tim Hudson is rehabbing well and look for him to return after the Allstar break. Too early to tell how we'll fit him in, but he'll definitely help the club. If he can grab us 5-7 wins down the stretch, look out playoffs.

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