One reason was we gave that many rookies that much of an opportunity, and two, we were very patient with the opportunity. The surprise was how this season has unfolded. We've had so many injuries and we've hung in there so well through the process. |
That was very fortunate for us that he was put out [on waivers] at the time. I'm going to withhold comment on him until he pitches more than he has now, but he's pitched pretty well so far and we've got four weeks to evaluate him. |
That was very fortunate for us that he was put out [on waivers] at the time. I'm going to withhold comment on him until he pitches more than he has now, but he's pitched pretty well so far and we've got four weeks to evaluate him. |
The amount of physical work he's done is tremendous. He looks great. We really feel he's going to bounce back and be very good this year. He's going to get his innings and give us some wins this year. He's healthy and in a great frame of mind. |
The attraction from a performance standpoint is that he can do both (start and relieve). Probably more importantly, everywhere we checked, it came back he was our kind of guy. Very good competitor. Good teammate. Takes the ball. Doesn't complain. |
The emphasis on character is not one of convenience. I think our emphasis on character is real, and our emphasis on doing things the right way is real. And I think he's noticed that difference, too. |
There's a difference between depth and quality depth, and Josh would be quality depth. We want to have a guy like that, but if not, you move on. |
They compromised a little on the base, and we compromised on the upside. That's how deals get done. |
This is an unfortunate injury for Ryan. |
This was a minor procedure that we expect will sideline Todd for a couple of weeks. We anticipate him being completely recovered for the start of spring training. |
Those are tough losses when you lose that many games late. |
We are maturing as a team and figuring out how to win close games, especially in the division. But it won't matter if we don't continue playing good. |
We had more flexibility (financially), first and foremost. |
We have a long-term vision and we'll still need a lot of pitching, but you still have to earn something, too. |
We just thought he fit our profile perfectly. We thought he could play multiple positions . . . great teammate. |