Openers

[klaiggeb]

This is the latest fad, and I will say again, I do NOT agree with them.

Not at all.

It automatically uses up another arm, and maybe two, if they struggle.

I'd rather use relievers at the end of the game because usually...usually, they don't have the repertoire that starters have, and many feature a specialty pitch that frankly, I want to take advantage of near the end of a game.

But Farhan and Kapler seem dead set on using the thing.

[garyd4sf]

I'm torn on the reliever type opening up, but a receiver comes in for one inning anyway and uses his best pitch anyway to do his later inning relief.

Why not start that way?

And then the game proceeds as normal from the second inning on. It just allows the starting pitcher to perhaps go one inning further in than when he normally leaves.

[klaiggeb]

I used to argue this exact point with Roger all the time, Gary.

If, indeed, your reliever is a 1 pitch guy... why play that card in the first inning?

I want my best bullets for late in the game, not being used up early.

IMHO, the logic of using an opener is faulty.

Whether the starter comes in in inning 1, 2, or 3...it's still the same situation.

He could get lit up.

I cannot see one good reason for using an opener. Not one.

Sorry.

[Islandboagie]

I agree, Boly. The reason managers use that strategy is to mess with opposing manager's lineup. The lineup is set to face the pitcher whom they predict they will see for at least the first half of the game. In my opinion it's cheating.

[reedonly]

Managers only use the opener to turn around the opponent lineup or to keep them honest.  I can see where it might be okay on an occasional basis in place of a crappy fifth starter but doing it regularly might neccesitate 14 pitchers on the roster or crazy use of the San Francisco-Sacramento shuttle.  I am okay with it on an occasional use but not doing it more than one or two times a month.  

I'm still wondering why managers don't have players go against the shift to keep defenses honest but that's another can of worms. 

[klaiggeb]

I agree on bothb points, Reed

[Islandboagie]

Rather than using an "opener" even for the 5th starter, I'd prefer all starting pitchers be conditioned better throughout the system to pitch deep into games. I see too often starting pitchers being taken out early in the minors, rather than going deep.

[klaiggeb]

Now you're speaking my language, boagie!

I am so tired of pitchers being taught that "5" is good enough.

Horse crap!

I'm with you on this one!