Unthinkable because he has been the Opening
Day starter the past two years.
Unthinkable because he has been the face of the rotation since Halladay
was traded. Unthinkable because his 2011 season was quite terrific. Unthinkable because after some early
struggles in his career, he realized the potential of his high draft
pickedness. Unthinkable because of the
public support the organization has given him.
Unthinkable because of his contract.
But yet inevitable. He never looked right in 2012, despite
winning a lot of games early. He
struggled with his command, which led to struggles with his control. He was fighting himself the entire
season. His emotions which previously
made him a great competitor led to some of his problems as he seems overly
frustrated on the mound (I have no doubt that Ricky puts way too much pressure
on himself).
It was also inevitable due to his off
season elbow surgery and what seems to be a never ending battle with his knees.
I hope he is not hiding another injury, but I would not be surprised if he was.
It was also inevitable as soon as they
started tinkering with his delivery in Spring Training and the results weren’t
there.
It pains me to say this, but it is the
right move. 2013 is way too important to
take a chance in April by just throwing Ricky out there. Better to send him to Dunedin where it is
warm and he can focus on his mechanics and trying to get some joy back.
Let’s be clear. This is not a Roy Halladay project. This more Cliff Lee (we hope) or Dontrelle
Willis (we fear). Only time will tell,
but I hope for, and look forward to, a return game in July against Tampa where Ricky
goes 7 strong innings and gives up only 1 run.
All the best Ricky. We need you.
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