All fair arguments against the narrative that they are collapsing. But what about those of us who think they are not giving themselves the best chance of winning this race with the Braves? There is strong evidence Buck is managing with a lack of urgency: the decisions to pitch Medina, Montes de Oca, and Rodriguez in late spots of close games. Three times in one week. Three out of four of the losses. A rested bullpen available each time. Each one, coming on the heals of the previous one, is that much more alarming. Last night was probably the worst for that reason. To have managed with enough urgency to pull the starter in the 4th at 4-0, but then not use a rested Diaz or Ottavino at 4-3 in the 8th? And then to say because you wanted Diaz for the 9th which may not even come? We all get the idea of not burning out guys, but when you turn around and realize Diaz hasn’t pitched in a week, at least admit that you messed up.
You could also argue that Megill and Guillorme should be up by now. And Vientos too. We have two guys on the roster supposedly here for flexibility, who have not found there ways onto the field now in the 9 days they’ve been here. How are those roster spots contributing? And Darin Ruf? That’s an insanely long leash he’s been afforded.
All fair arguments against the narrative that they are collapsing. But what about those of us who think they are not giving themselves the best chance of winning this race with the Braves? There is strong evidence Buck is managing with a lack of urgency: the decisions to pitch Medina, Montes de Oca, and Rodriguez in late spots of close games. Three times in one week. Three out of four of the losses. A rested bullpen available each time. Each one, coming on the heals of the previous one, is that much more alarming. Last night was probably the worst for that reason. To have managed with enough urgency to pull the starter in the 4th at 4-0, but then not use a rested Diaz or Ottavino at 4-3 in the 8th? And then to say because you wanted Diaz for the 9th which may not even come? We all get the idea of not burning out guys, but when you turn around and realize Diaz hasn’t pitched in a week, at least admit that you messed up.
You could also argue that Megill and Guillorme should be up by now. And Vientos too. We have two guys on the roster supposedly here for flexibility, who have not found there ways onto the field now in the 9 days they’ve been here. How are those roster spots contributing? And Darin Ruf? That’s an insanely long leash he’s been afforded.