Why Joe Maddon can kiss my....

[Guest]

I commented I believe in one of the profiles that Joe Maddon was responsible for at least a quarter point on James Shields' ERA last season trying to steal extra innings from Shields after he'd go 2 in 7, and then leave him out there to give up a couple more runs in the 8th. Like clockwork really.

Sure enough, David Price tonight. 2 in 7, 95 or so pitches, his first start of the year. So of course, Maddon has to leave him out there with a bullpen that's stacked because, well, thats what he does. So Price gives up 4 baserunners in an inning, another run, and only Cormier whiffing Swisher with the bases loaded saves him from more damage.

Makes me want to tear my hair out.

[Bodhizefa]

Makes me want to tear my hair out.

At least you have hair left to pull! I've moved onto my cat, and she's not very happy about it.

[Kelly_Leak]

In defense of Maddon, Niemann did get knocked out in the 2nd yesterday.

[Guest]

I love Joe Maddon. In 2004 I wanted him to get the Red Sox job instead of Francona (and still believe he'd have done a similar job). But he has this one issue. And it's not just because of Niemann yesterday. He tries to steal that 8th inning more than any manager in baseball.

Now, Nolan Ryan might love it. But it's not working at least from an effectiveness standpoint. Watching the 8th, the announcers were commenting clearly at how Price was tiring.

[Tampa Bob]

Wasn't Shouse the chief firebomber last year? I also had Shields last year and bought him again thinking he'd be safer this year.