Garza's start

[CubColtPacer]

First, I want to mention Garza's fielding. Is anyone else concerned that he has lost the ability to throw to first base on a bunt attempt? This isn't just a matter of him being a poor fielder in general (which he is) but the last 4 or 5 starts he clearly has no confidence in that throw. He started by throwing a ball into right field at way too high of a velocity, and then for a couple starts was trying so hard to not throw hard that he was bouncing the ball (including one hilarious throw where it went about 10 feet in front of him) and now yesterday returned to throwing it 100 miles an hour nowhere near the bag. I'm guessing it will get solved at some point, but it's always concerning when players lose the ability to do simple things they could normally do in their sleep. We've seen players get the yips before (although it's rare), and it's a hard thing to get out of.

 

As for the rest of Garza, we're probably looking at the lowest part of his value this year after the 5 HR given up in the last two starts. But right now his peripherals don't look that good. His HR rate will likely come down, but it seems likely he won't get anywhere close to his nice HR rate from last year. He still has been a ground ball pitcher, but less than he was last year. The strikeouts are a little down, the walks are slightly up, and his BABIP is probably going to get a little worse. A nice pitcher still, but I would want a decent discount to possibly sign an extension at the moment to account for the possibility that last year is as good as it's going to get for him.

[jersey cubs fan]

I'm worried his results will never look as good as he pitches because of how poorly he fields and handles the bat. A trade would be ideal unless a modest extension is possible.

[Old Style]

Bob Brenly actually referred to a bunt the other day as an ABG play with ABG meaning anyone but Garza.