All articles tagged with #pitching issues
Kumar Rocker was optioned back to Triple-A by the Texas Rangers after a challenging start in the majors, highlighting the need for further development in his pitching skills, including pitch variety and fielding, as he gains more experience in the minors.
The Philadelphia Phillies suffered a crushing 6-5 defeat to the Arizona Diamondbacks in Game 4 of the NLCS as their bullpen collapsed under pressure. Manager Rob Thomson's decisions, including starting Cristopher Sánchez after a 20-day layoff and carrying two pitchers they didn't want to use, backfired. The Phillies have pitching advantages but failed to capitalize on them, and their bullpen struggles have raised questions about how they proceed. With the series tied at two games apiece, the Phillies must rely on ace Zack Wheeler to carry the team in Game 5.
Atlanta Braves pitcher Kyle Wright will undergo surgery and is expected to miss the entire 2024 season due to a shoulder issue that has plagued him since January. Meanwhile, Max Fried is feeling well and will start Game 2 of the Division Series after recovering from a blister on his index finger. Daysbel Hernandez and Michael Tonkin have made the Division Series bullpen, with Hernandez impressing during workouts and Tonkin providing versatility and durability. The Braves have also shuffled their lineup for Game 1, with Austin Riley batting second and Ozzie Albies in the cleanup spot to counter the left-handed options in the Phillies' bullpen.
The Cincinnati Reds suffered back-to-back lopsided losses to the Chicago Cubs, highlighting their pitching issues and bullpen troubles. Despite maintaining their lead in the National League Central race, the Reds' pitchers have given up a staggering 36 runs and 37 hits in the past two games. Short outings from starters and the need to use a position player as a pitcher have further strained the bullpen. The team's manager, David Bell, remains optimistic but acknowledges the need for reinforcements and careful management of the bullpen's workload.