Angels start could be pivotal to Joba's status

Dr. Detfink · Post #1 » by **Dr. Detfink** » Fri Jul 10, 2009 12:37 am

Last start vs. the Jays, Girardi let Joba take a licking. His start against the Angels will be the litmus acid test on whether or not he has a chance at being a #4 starter in the future.

After 16 starts, I am finally convinced that Joba Chamberlain is better suited in the bullpen. To be fair, I was behind giving Joba a chance. After all, if you want to boost a pitcher's value allowing them to start can raise the hype...and maybe even luck out with a potential #3. Instead, I've discovered that this kid does have the skill but not the maturity to be a starter. You need poise.

After Mariano's 500th save, Kimberly Jones (YES) asked Mariano about the fist pumping shenanigans. Rivera responded, "It doesn't bother me. However if someone hits a home run and fist pumps in front of you, don't be mad." Hmm...who could he mean, someone hitting a homer fist pumping in front of the pitcher?

I'm a Joba fan but clearly this kid is not focused. For now, he is filling a slot till the playoffs when he'll be put back in the pen.

Pharmcat · Post #2 » by **Pharmcat** » Fri Jul 10, 2009 3:38 am

he needs to stop being a baby, and just unleash his stuff

Post #3 » by **PR07** » Fri Jul 10, 2009 3:52 am

He's still veeeeeeeery young. Joba has tapered off these last few starts, but I don't think his next one will make or break him as whether he'll be a starter or not from here on out. He needs to be more aggressive and get the velocity we're accustomed to seeing from him with the fastball. Maybe not the 98, but sitting around 92-95 would be nice. He has the stuff where he doesn't have to be spot on with location all the time. Start attacking hitters.

TKF · Post #4 » by **TKF** » Sat Jul 11, 2009 4:07 am

geez.. given a 5-1 lead , he lets this light hitting angels team put up 4 runs in the 5th.. He needs to learn how to pitch.. having good stuff is just not enough when you are trying to be a legit starter..

Pharmcat · Post #5 » by **Pharmcat** » Sat Jul 11, 2009 4:17 am

he just doesnt have the guts to be a starter, its as simple as that

throw him back in the pen, he doesnt have it mentally to be a starter

TKF · Post #6 » by **TKF** » Sat Jul 11, 2009 4:45 am

we gave up 7 runs so far to a tripple A angels lineup... ROFL!!!! thanks Joba...

Dr. Detfink · Post #7 » by **Dr. Detfink** » Sat Jul 11, 2009 5:55 am

Well, that's exactly how I see it. It's not a question of stuff but poise and mindset. I've never seen a guy look dominating and then **** around and flail like a bitch the next time the bottom of the order comes through.

The frustrating part is, he can dial up the velocity but tends to **** around.

We should not have lost this game. Giving up a 5-1 lead is UNacceptable.