Zach Duke update...

by calig23 on Jul 22, 2005 1:35 PM EDT

Well, I guess I've become the unofficial Zach Duke spokesman here.

Anyhow, Duke made his 4th start yesterday against Colorado. He continues to pitch into, and out of trouble, as yesterday was his shakiest start yet. He pitched 7 innings and gave 8 hits while walking 4 batters. However, he allowed just 1, unearned, run and picked up 5 K's en route to the win. He was also backed by some early offense, as the Pirates led 7-0 after two innings.

It's tough to take much from this start, as the Rockies are probably the only team worse than the Pirates. Aside from Todd Helton, that's a pretty putrid lineup. My guess is, when he faces some better lineups, he's definitely going to struggle. However, he shown exceptional poise on the mound, so that is a plus.

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Not every start can be magic

If "shaky" for Duke means that he gives up no earned runs, I think the Pirates will take plenty more of those shaky starts.

To be serious, I expect him to get hit up hard sometimes, because that's what happens to young pitchers getting accustomed to life in the majors.

From what I saw of him against the Cubs, he's got that sort of 'game-sense' that the very best pitchers have. He recognizes situations, what he needs to do in order to get out of those situations, and then goes about doing it.

by mrkupe on Jul 22, 2005 1:49 PM EDT reply actions

Left handed Greg Maddux

Duke may give up hits, he may pitch around guys, but he is Greg Maddux smart with Greg Maddux talent. He will be one of the winningist pitchers in baseball over the next decade. Maddux in his prime KNEW how to get out good hitters, but didn't show it to the hitter until he needed to get out of a critical situation. This kept the hitters from making adjustments and allowd maddux to choose the timing of when he would shut down the other teams threats. He didn't mind giving up singles or doubles with 2 outs and no one on. Why show the hitter how your going to get him out when there is no one on base. This is why maddux had dominating ERA's and big win totals. He threw low 90's heat with good offspeed stuff and outstanding control. Zach Duke is the same.

by Fishin Chips on Jul 25, 2005 3:10 AM EDT reply actions