Rockies 4, Giants 3: Is it my imagination, or is Vinnie Chulk the king of making one bad pitch? Pat Misch was throwing a gritty game, got into a spot of trouble in the sixth, and Bochy brought in Chulk to face a string of right-handed batters. A walk (argh), a strikeout, then Torrealba hit Chulk's first pitch for a two-run double. In a game filled with missed chances, Chulk's performance steamed me the most.
Make that second-most. In the top of the ninth, Eugenio Velez pinch-ran for Jose Castillo. Apparently Velez has no idea that left-handed pitchers can lift their legs and throw to first. It's the second or third time in recent days, it seems, that he's broken for second on the pitcher's first move. So let's get this straight: he's not a good fielder. He can't hit very well. And he's the fastest man in the universe but can't read a pickoff move.
It's time for Velez to learn his craft in the minors. If the Giants think he can improve at the big-league level, play him every day, grin and bear it. Otherwise, send him to Fresno.
I'm not done. Please, for God's sake, play Fred Lewis every day. If Bochy wants Ortmeier in the lineup, fine. Platoon him at first base with Bowker. Aurilia can give Durham and Castillo days off, and he can be the main pinch-hitter. It's better for Richie, anyway; the sooner he learns to be a utility guy, the better to extend the twilight of his career.
PLODAG: Misch. Three runs in 5 2/3 IP seems like big whoop, but at Coors Field, against those right handed hitters, I like what he did. Tip of the hat to Jose Castillo, who walked twice, got a clutch single to start the ninth.
The Upside: Lewis. Two triples and a walk. Speed, power and patience.
I say demote Velez and bring up Threets. If you were granted the magical power of one roster move, what would it be? Would you use your newly-bestowed powers for good or for evil? Discuss.
