Season 106, Game 49
Cleveland (23-25) at Detroit (35-14), 1:05 PM (STO)
Starting Pitchers:
Cleveland: Jason Johnson (2-4, 6.52 ERA)
Detroit: Kenny Rogers (7-2, 3.32 ERA)
This week's Sheldon Ocker commentary touches on the obvious; why sign Jason Johnson? However, I think he's approaching it from the wrong angle:
Signing Scott Elarton to a two-year deal wouldn't be a viable alternative. I don't care if he was the "best #5 in baseball" last year. Elarton's FIP-ERA this season is a positive 1.72. The Royals defense isn't that great (#20 in defensive efficiency), and Elarton's left over 75% of his baserunners on base. He's walked more than he's struck out. He's allowed 13 home runs. In other words, he's pitching over his head.
Or how about saying Johnson is just a bad pitcher? There's no need to invent weaknesses when his numbers speak for themselves. One more bad start from Johnson should be enough to banish him to the bullpen. I would have done it after last Saturday's debacle, but what do I know?