Mathieson’s Worst Enemy = 4th Inning
I was out at a local drinking establishment watching the Phillies game Wednesday night when John Lieber threw the first legit complete game of the season. As soon as the final out was recorded the patrons started shouting "Sweep Tomorrow." My relish of victory was soon soured after I heard this proclamation. Do these people know who is pitching tomorrow?
The 4th inning seems to be Mathieson’s Achilles Heel. He has only gotten out of the
4th inning 3 times in 7 starts. His combined starts for the 4th inning read as followed:
To further prove the ‘forth inning theory’ is when he turns over the order. Opponents getting a second plate appearance against him are batting .389 with 21 hits , 19 RBIs and 4 home runs. All of that in 11 2/3’s innings. During that span his era is a lofty 13.89.
News Flash : Scott Mathieson isn’t getting the job done!
He can’t pitch any more than 3 innings of baseball without getting rocked. Any constant Phillies observer can see the same thing I do. He can’t get the job done.
So, where do we turn too?
As of right now there are only limited options and short term solutions to replace Mathieson in the rotation. With Flash Gordon day to day it makes the Phils short with bullpen arms with only 12. Since Rhodes is assuming closing duties it is plausible to insert Ryan Madson back into the rotation. But, with his limit success in that role it weakens the bullpen of one of its best right arms. Even thought Madson is night and day as a starter he is a lot better than Mahieson but still doesn’t garner any confidence from Phillies Nation.
The other option is to recall Gavin Floyd. Yes, Gavin Floyd. The story of this guy’s life is this :
He gets bombed in the majors only to get sent back down to AAA where he decides to pitch like he’s Bugs Bunny against the Gashouse Gorillas.
On a more positive note the Phillies and the American Red Cross are hosting a blood drive August 26th from 7AM to 3 PM. The requirments for donation are for those people who are at least 17 years old and weigh 110 pounds. Advanced registration is suggested but not required. To register you can call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or vist www.pleasegiveblood.org
