The analytical answer - whether it's really what they used or not - is that Sipp is better vs righties (0.530 OPS) than Qualls is against lefties (0.800 OPS). And the first two batters in the inning were switch hitters that are better as left-handed hitters than right-handed hitters. So on both the hitter and pitcher side, the matchups were better with Sipp pitching. I suspect the analytics people also care less about defined roles and are more willing to pitch people 2 innings than traditional managers - no idea if it's a good thing or not in reality, but I wonder if we will see more of that.
Maybe the analytics do suggest that guys should sometimes be left in games. I know Porter has absolutely refused to let relievers go 2 innings in close and late situations. We've already seen it 2 times in 3 games with Lawless. Not to mention we have a large enough sample to suggest Qualls struggles against this team. Sipp did have a bad outing last time, but it was only because he couldn't find the plate.
Just saw this piece of news, didn't see it posted anywhere. Apparently Nitro is going into a 6 man rotation, news I am very happy with. http://blog.chron.com/ultimateastros/2014/09/05/astros-to-add-tropeano-to-staff-utilize-six-man-rotation/#22102101=0
Kazmir has a no hitter going. Kazmir has a no hitter going. Hey, guys...Kazmir had a no hitter going. No hitter. Kazmir. No hitter. Kazmir. jinx hitter no Kazmir hitter no jinx
Alright Qualls.... try not to bend over again to this team. EDIT: are you f'in serious? Also, still hate Fowler in CF... he non-chalanted the single earlier in the inning, and while the last play would have been tough for anybody, still rather have the guy with more speed and a better arm trying to make it.
