• Been There, Done This Dept.: Houston's Brandon Backe had that déjà vu feeling last month -- when he became the second pitcher in the past 50 years to give up 11 runs (or more) twice in a week and a half: I would say that Backe's done.. stick a fork in him.
I think both Backe and Rodriguez could use a change of scenery. Maybe they do better in new uniforms next season? I guess we could keep them around another season and hope for the best...but I'd rather overhaul our pitching assuming we can get better.
I'd say just Backe needs to go for now. Wandy posted a pretty solid ERA in a decent amount of starts this season while Backe just stunk it up from the start.
Always nice to go out on top though with a win . 86 wins isn't a bad number and hopefully next season culminates with a playoff birth.
One thing I hope for next year is an attempt at more games with the roof open. This year, it seems like they had as little open roof games as they ever had in the 8 year existence of the ballpark. Of course, if its playoff time... roof stays closed.
Still not willing to take that World Series tipjar bet regarding the Cubs? If they make it to the WS this year, I will donate $25 to the tipjar. If they don't make it this year, you donate $25? Or are you going to continue running scared? I'll make it easier on you. if they don't make it, you only have to donate $15.
Exactly why does Rodriguez need a change of scenery? His ERA has gone from around 5.50 to 4.50 to 3.50 over the past three seasons. He will be 30 when the season starts next year. He will still be relatively cheap. His main problem is the inability to finish hitters off which tends to lead to a high pitch count.
