Kudos to both Gabe Kapler and the "struggling" bullpen to seal the win yesterday at Miller Park. Both were stellar, despite Eric Gagne giving up back to back homers (he's done). Additionally, Manny Parra threw one of his better games in his young career. Fans wondered out loud how the young southpaw would rebound after getting pushed, school-yard four square style, by the overly large Prince Fielder? Well, I think he answered us all yesterday. He lasted 7 innings striking out 9 batters and giving zero, zilch, nada passes. Oh, and he only gave up 1 earned run. Out-fricken-standing Parra.
Then there was Mike Rivera. The back up catcher who has been quietly (until last week) waiting his chance to play more. Rivera went 2 for 3 and reached base all 5 times yesterday. Not to mention the reliable (when called upon) catcher drove in a base clearing 3-run double. Thanks impart to the speedy (and wise) base running of Mike Cameron, Mike Rivera was able to make up for Eric Gagne's SNAFU in one steady swing of the bat. A rocket to the right field corner that indicated to me at least, Rivera is a true clutch player.
He has been backing up the stern Jason Kendall all season, batting in the .320's and doing a decent job calling games. No knock on Kendall. However, Yost has to realize that calling a good game, throwing out over 40% of runners, and knocking down the wild balls...it takes it's toll. You can't compromise offense for defense. Although some may argue that you can. Jason Kendall is batting a dismal .242 at the plate. All that the state of Wisconsin asks is that you play Rivera at LEAST once a week, matching up with Ben Sheets. Why?
Well...you take away Sheets' at-bat with a Rivera at-bat and you even things out. We need to start bringing home the players in scoring position.
-Mike Rivera did a call-in (brief) interview with Sports Center yesterday. This guy is as humble as they get. He did speak up against Ned last week, publicly. But the way he worded his feelings was still classy. He wants to contribute and wants to play. He's confident. Now is the time to get him more playing time.
-Ryan Braun is still listed day-to-day. Expect him to miss at least 2 more games. This will pinch the outfield. Oh...and stop platooning third base with Counsell.
Rightfieldbleachers.com has been saying this for a while now...I agree.
-Hardy went 0-6 (1 walk). Yikes.
Here are the probably match ups for the week.
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