Francisco Rodriguez- LAA- Inj- K-Rod's uncharacteristically shaky performance (1 run on 2 hits and a walk in the 9th inning) was attributed to sinus trouble resulting from the change of climate from dry Arizona to more humid southern California. "I'm sick, real weak today," K-Rod said. "Hopefully, I'll feel better tomorrow. A couple of times today I had to stop and catch my breath. I was really congested." Still, he earned the save and struck out 2 Rangers. Expect this to resolve itself shortly, but there still might be a rough day or two.
Jaret Wright- BAL- Cold- Baltimore pitching coach has not yet been able to work the magic he did on Wright back in 2004, when they were both with the Braves. Wright continued his spring struggles with control and stamina, lasting just 2-1/3 innings and walking 5 in that brief time. He also gave up 4 hits, leading to 6 runs (4 earned) in his appearance. Only 36 of Wright's 66 pitches were strikes. Can Mazzone still pull a rabbit out of this hat? Possibly, but you don't need to take the risk waiting.
A. J. Burnett- TOR- Cold- The last time Burnett had a genuinely effective first start of the year was in 2003. Less than a month later he had Tommy John surgery and was lost for the season. Since then, his first starts have been either ineffective or short. Yesterday was both. In 2 innings of work he was charged with 6 runs on 5 hits and 4 walks. Only 26 of his 55 pitches were strikes. Over the long haul, when Burnett has been able to pitch, his numbers have been respectable. Health is a greater worry than this statistical blip of a poor game. His track record in staying in the rotation is spotty. Hope for the best.
Sammy Sosa- TEX- FYI- Sosa sat yesterday after being in the lineup for each of the first two Texas games. I have sincere doubts about whether he will last long enough to get the 12 homers he needs to reach 600. I was watching the Rangers on Tuesday and Sosa came up in a key situation with bases loaded and 2 outs. He fouled balls to the right side, indicating that his bat speed is not what it was. Eventually Sosa struck out. This is pretty much where he left off with the Orioles in 2005. I'm not sure how long the Rangers will exhibit patience with him.
Rich Harden- OAK- Hot- Harden tossed a gem yesterday, shutting out the Mariners for 7 innings on 3 hits and 2 walks while striking out 7. Of his 94 pitches, 64 were strikes. This is the kind of performance that led the A's to elevate him to the status of staff ace upon the departure of Barry Zito. There is still the question of whether Harden will be durable enough for a full season workload, but for right now he's looking pretty good.
