inspired by the end of daylight saving time, Jim Duquette's show was asked which players or teams will fall backward from their 2012 performances.
the A's and O's were the only teams mentioned. JD said he sees the O's falling back if they try to use the same starting rotation philosophy they used last year. he said he just doesn't see how the piecemeal approach could yield the same results 2 yrs in a row.
the only individual O's player mentioned was Jim Johnson. they said he and F. Rodney simply reached dizzying heights that are hard to reach, let alone stay at. both co-hosts mentioned that this wasn't a knock on either pitcher.
I see the O's rotation as a little more established now. so I don't see the piecemeal approach as being necessary next season.
Tillman and Gonzalez both came up mid-season. I have confidence that Gonz. is the guy we saw in '12. Tillman still has ? since he hasn't put together a consistant track record. but even if he stumbles next year, Chen, Hammel & Gonzalez seem set. Steve Johnson has earned the #5 slot. he pitched a couple of big games, last least season, and delivered.
Chen and Gonz. should both have better stamina in '13 since they have a full season under their belts.
and Bundy is waiting in the wings if things get rough or someone goes down to injury later in the season. although conventional wisdom says he won't be up next year.


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