Pirates sign Kolb

[cheapseats]

Another way to raise Dempster's value:

 

Have him practice OF defense in spring training.

[rchap24]

What happened to him in the year when he did like amazing? Ever since he has either sucked in the majors or been like dropped into the minors. Was he on like roids or something? anybody know?

 

I think there are two kinds of closers: Good ones and guys who have good seasons. Good ones are guys like Rivera, Gagne, Smoltz (also an outstanding starter), Wagner...

Guys who have good "seasons" are guys like Dempster, Kolb, Tim Worrell (Giants). The trick is realizing when you have a good pitcher and when you have caught lightning in a bottle.

 

I see what your saying as well, but I also think Dempster still has some possible hope to be a good closer. Not a great one but a servicable 1 like 30 svs a season at best.

[ltb]

Kolb always had the ability to throw in the upper 90's, but thats when he ran into trouble. He had his most success when he did throw that sinker ball pitch in the low 90's.

 

this is correct.

mike maddux focused him more on controlling those pitches, which led to success in his first stint in milwaukee. you'll notice that when he gets into trouble, he will start to dial it up to 98mph or so.