Look, I could write out what happened versus the White Sox in black and white for you but I know you’re not stupid. You saw the games and the results. So, I’d rather discuss the problems and the fact that we should not push the panic button so soon.
The results of this past weekend are indicative of the Rays early season struggles. These were not games that consisted of the opposing pitcher being on top of their game. This was the Rays offense expanding the zone, swinging at first pitches rather than working the count, not being able to move runners when the opportunity presented itself and just plain old bad decision making. Here are the stats to prove my point:
In the White Sox series alone the Rays were ONLY 6 for 38 with RISP and stranded 30 on base! The Rays accumulated 30 hits in the 4 games and only managed to score 13 total runs. To this point in the season the Rays are almost doubling their strike to walks ratio at 109 K’s to 61 BB. We currently have 7 major players batting less than .250 in a line up that was supposed to be improved.
This only illustrates the offensive issues so let’s look at the pitching. Our “big 5” are not producing in the way they did last year. The starting rotation is now sporting an average ERA of 5.49. The bullpen has an averaged ERA of 6.23. The entire pitching staff has allowed 45 ER in 13 games to this point.
So gang to this point in the young 2009 season – we stink! But, here’s the rub — we were in the same position at this time last year!
Look this team has far too much talent to continue to perform in the manner they have. I really believe getting away from The Trop and “championship week” couldn’t come at a better time. Let’s face it weeks like that are more for the fans that the players. It takes a lot of emotion to get through that.
I do however have a few suggestions I’d like to throw out there:
1. Zobrist needs to be the regular RF period. I said this on the Rays message board last week. He has a ton more talent than the “Gabes”. Given the opportunities he has proven himself.
2. Find out what is going on with Longo – he has not been the same since his return to the team. Everyone knows how difficult it can be to have a family member pass and if he’s not ready send him home for a bit and insert Aybar. Longo looks distracted and unfocused.
3. GET A CLOSER!
The Rays will rebound so don’t push the panic button yet Rays Republic! See you in Seattle!
