Redding On The Shelf

Fool me once Omar, shame on me...














...fool me twice, shame on you. Tim Redding is going to begin the season on the DL with shoulder fatigue. Redding is the only competitor for the 5th spot in the rotation with a garunteed contract. In 2 1/3 innings this spring he has allowed 14 earned runs - some of those against the University of Michigan mind you. In 2 innings against the Marlins Thursday, Redding looked miserable on the mound with his fastball topping out in the mid 80's and his location all over the place.

In more positive news today, despite the loss to the Nationals Mike Pelfrey pitched remarkably well. He went 4 shutout innings while only allowing 2 hits and 1 walk. It was Big Pelf's first start since his lower leg strain. Livan Hernandez also pitched effectively in relief as he tossed 2 no hit innings. He is clearly the favorite at this point to take on the 5th starter role.