vega

[vega51]

hembo, i have to rest my case with your own numbers.

People would use the 4.09 ERA to determine Peavy's future, i don't, I use the 1.23 whip.

Same thing happened with Arroyo, he had a 4.00 ERA with a 1.20 plus whip, then i determined he was going to be a good pitcher, many, many laughed, well, he became an all star.

Hembo, a 1.23 whip is VERY GOOD for a starter, very good. Last year, i don't think 20 guys had a lower whip of that 1.23 you mentioned.

I go with whip over ERA as i will always go with OBP over average (thats why i don't like taveras that much)

[jamesa46]

It's just a fact of life. Most pitchers peak at about two, three good seasons and then start a slow decline. Of course there are exceptions to the rule. Greg Maddux is one and he is currently in a state of decline.
Oswalt on the other hand is like many pitchers who peak over a two, three year period and then begin a decline in their skill and ability.

Years ago, when starting pitchers began to show a decline in their skills, they were moved to the bullpen where they were able to extend their careers.
Today that is very rare since the minor leagues now groom pitchers as middle relievers and closers for the Major League clubs.