Is Change a Good Thing?
By Brian Mason
Recently, the talk of every Boston-supporting publication and talk show has been the progress of Curt Schilling. Although Schilling claims that a pre-All Star break return is entirely possible, the Red Sox organization has been reluctant to publicly rejoice. They have, however, been optimistic about his simulated games and his upcoming Pawtucket start. If Schilling does, in fact, return, the red-hot Sox are faced with picking a new starting five.
The assumption here is that Curt Schilling is the club’s unquestioned ace. Schilling was the only Boston pitcher to win twenty games last year and his post-season heroics have been immortalized in Red Sox lore. No matter how poorly Schilling pitched to open this season, fans are counting on his time off to have cured whatever was hurting him.
What’s interesting about the current situation is that even without Schilling in the rotation, the Red Sox, winners of eleven of their last twelve, have reclaimed the lead in the American League East. Part of me wants Schilling back as soon as possible (the side of me that loves seeing the veteran power pitcher do his thing), but the other part of me asks why we should change what works and rush his return (the rational side.)
My guess is that the Red Sox will hold Schilling in minor league rehab starts until after the All Star break. If he finally returns, then which pitcher is subsequently dropped from the rotation (which will not necessarily be a bad thing, considering the poor state of relief pitching?)
Matt Clement clearly stays. With his 9-1 record, his has become the team’s go-to guy in Schilling’s absence. And who knows? Maybe even a backup All Star?
After Clement, the rotation gets tricky. Tim Wakefield should stay. He had his few shaky starts, but many of those were without his normal catcher Doug Mirabelli. But since Mirabelli’s return, Wakefield has been fantastic in his past three outings, allowing one run in 22 innings. The old knuckleballer also does not fatigue easily down the stretch.
Personally, I think Bronson Arroyo should also stay in the rotation. He’s my favorite pitcher on team and has also been excellent in his recent starts. Arroyo is arguably the most aggressive member of the pitching staff, and has the greatest untapped potential.
Wade Miller, on the other hand, has not been outstanding since his addition earlier this year. Granted, Miller was coming off a severe injury and still appears a little rusty whenever he takes the mound. He has yet to consistently pitch deep into games. Nevertheless, Miller has been throwing some of the best pitches out of anyone. Unfortunately, he cannot seem to find a rhythm and based on recent performances, might be the first to sit until he can strengthen his arm.
That leaves David Wells (the former Yankee) as the question mark. Wells is either lights-out or down right horrible. There has been no middle ground. After finding his stride following his time on the disabled list, the lefthander (which is why he will probably stay) has been excellent. But can Wells be trusted to put his heart into this team come October?
The decision – provided that Schilling has healed and returns to form – is ultimately Terry Francona’s. And currently, there is no clear answer. Wells will not take lightly to being demoted to the bullpen, but Miller might thrive there until he finds consistency. Hopefully, the Red Sox will let Schilling stay in rehab until he is absolutely ready. There is no reason to rush this now. Boston’s cruising at the helm of the AL East, due largely to their fantastic pitching of late. And it’s all been done without their ace.
