The above write-up provides a preview of tonight’s Game 6 in the ALCS between the New York Yankees and Texas Rangers.
SportsReaction
One loss away from the end of their season the New York Yankees will turn to Phil Hughes to save their season tonight on the road in Texas. No, you did not read that wrong. The history-laced Bronx bombers will turn to Phil Hughes to extend the series.
Now, if the man on the mound tonight for the Yankees were the Phil Hughes of the first half of the regular season, I wouldn’t have used italicized font on his name in the above sentence. But, considering how bad Hughes has been in the season second half, and in these playoffs it’s seems a very scary proposition that the Yankees need to turn to him. I understand that they really don’t have a choice as they clearly don’t want to pitch Andy Pettitte on three day’s rest (as discussed here); but have a look at Phil Hughes first half vs. second half splits this season:
Phil Hughes | W-L | ERA | WHIP | K/BB |
First Half | 11-2 | 3.45 | 1.18 | 3.14 |
Second Half | 7-6 | 4.90 | 1.34 | 1.90 |
Post Season | 1-1 | 5.73 | 1.64 | 2.25 |
It’s not hard to see that Hughes was significantly worse after the All Star break this season and rightfully so; the kid was tired. And why wouldn’t he be? Take a look at Hughes’ innings totals since he entered professional baseball in 2006 (minor and major league innings included):
Year | Innings |
2006 | 146 |
2007 | 109.4 |
2008 | 69.2 |
2009 | 105.1 |
2010 | 176.1 |
It’s easy to see the large increase in innings pitched for the 24 year old this season. Hughes has pitched more than 30 innings this season than he ever has; and more than 70 innings than he did last season!
If you’re a Yankees fan you have to be worried that they are putting a young, very tired pitcher on the mound tonight to save your team’s season.
It seems Yankees are going to have to win tonight’s game with their bats to have a chance.
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