Garner was going with the "We've got more than we could have ever asked out of Backe today" school of managing. Unfortunately, Jimy Williams is the dean of that school, and look where he's managing now.
But why extend Qualls when you don't need to? You KNOW Backe had it working, so why not let him go back out for one more and face the bottom half? Qualls has been a rock, but why risk it?
We aren't wrong. It was a dumb move period. This is a tie ballgame and could go on for who knows how long. You don't waste a pitcher with the stuff Backe has today. He could have easily gotten through the 7th.
Just because Gallo got him out, doesn't mean Backe shouldve come out. Walker's struggling against everyone. However, as long as we don't go into extra innings, we should be fine.
I know, I'm agreeing with you (see my last post). I'm just trying to remain positive... we still have a shot to win this game before we start complaining about it.
TLR taking out Suppan was just as big of a mistake, IMO, as taking out Backe. At least Backe has a track record (this year) of a high-end ERA, and spotty control which comes and goes at random. Suppan was mowing us down... and he has the confidence of beating us in game 7. Plus, after its all said and done, our bullpen is in MUCH better shape than their bullpen.
Ausmus STUNK in that at bat 3 pitches to hit and the bat never left his shoulder....BE FRICKEN AGGRESSIVE GO GET THE FRICKEN GAME !! DD
