The Buchholz Theory

It has come to my surprise that Clay Buchholz is shooting for a rehab assignment in the majors at the end of the month. I am completely shocked at this developement. I didn't think there was any way that they would jeopardize his longterm future for this club, for this playoff run because there will be many more. But, maybe they aren't.

The Red Sox front office, medical staff, and Terry Francona are smart (despite the bullpen debacle that is corrupting this season). Alas, Buchholz would have to be 100% or damn near close to it for them to contemplate putting him in the game. That being said, there is only one way to use him.

Start his ass!

Look, Clay Buchholz has NEVER pitched in relief in his entire life. Not in high school, college or the minors. And you want to see that debut in October, when games hang in the balance. NO THANK YOU.

I'm not stupid (I realize this is debatable). I'm not thinking he is going to go out there and give me 7-8 innings in the playoffs. That isn't going to happen. But if during the final week of the season you can get him to throw 40-50 pitches. Who would you rather have starting a game 4 Buchholz for 40-50 pitches (approx 4 innings) and then bringing in Aceves to get you to Daniel Bard, or John Lackey. If you cringed at the latter like I just did I think you have your answer.

Starting pitchers are prima donnas, see Beckett, Josh. He needs his own personal catcher for Christ's sake. Why would you ever want to take a starting pitcher out of his normal routine. Buchholz is one of those guys that gets in his own zone on days that he pitches. He roams around the outfield by himself for a couple hours, probably with those oversized headphones on that make him look like an air-traffic controller listening to Thug Nasty or Straw Hat Jugband (generic Hip-Hop or Country flavor of the week) becoming fully aware of the task at hand and getting into beast mode.

If Clay Buchholz is in the bullpen he has to deal with Jonathan Papelbon (which is probably like being forced to watch According to Jim re-runs on a loop) and listen to the stylings of the bullpen band. How is a creature of habit like Buchholz supposed to thrive in that environment? He isn't.

Start his Ass!

Stay Tuned

Norton