I don't want him to finish it, but I know Z will insist that he gets to. That's why I love Z. That being said, I wish NSBB, would realize not ALL pitchers have the same requirements for pitch counts. As Kasper just cited, Sheehan indicated that older pitchers can tolerate higher counts. Plus as I repeat AD NAUSEUM, it's higher stress innings, that REALLY influence Pitcher Abuse. And since it's a 1-0 game, it makes sense to risk his arm with the extra pitches and pitchers on the bench who haven't pitched in a few days :roll: All I'm saying is that Z is a huge competitor, a horse, and he's older and not prone to the real damage that happens with young pitchers ala Prior and Wood (in high school). He's been coasting, he's out now. It's fine. Lou is being careful with Harden for good reason, Z is fine. I think fans put WAY too much emphasis on pitch counts without taking other factors into count (age, high stress innings) there's simply no upside, and a non-trival downside. It's a dumb move.