Michael Silverman of the Boston Herald reported this morning:
“Wakefield was supposed to start tomorrow’s homestand opener against the Texas Rangers, but instead will go on the disabled list. A replacement has yet to be named, but Michael Bowden, today’s scheduled starter for Triple-A Pawtucket, is a top candidate with Devern Hansack a possibility as well.”
The reports have apparently changed as the Providence Journal’s Sean McAdam reports that budding minor-league knuckleball pitcher, Charlie Zink, is the favorite to finally jump ship to the big leagues. He also mentions that Devern Hansack is another option, but the Sox seem to be leaning towards the knuckleballer.
As for Bowden, it’s a great idea that the Sox not rush the top-regarded prospect to the Majors. He was just called up to AAA and his arm needs more seasoning before he should be considered an option. Look for Bowden to get a chance sometime late next year if things go to plan.
As for Zink, he is certainly no Wakefield, but his 2008 minor league numbers have been spectacular for AAA Pawtucket. As we know with knuckleball pitchers, they can be streaky – the same goes for Zink. Although his 2.89 ERA helps his cause for a couple of spot-starts, the Sox are still considering Hansack. Hansack has some, although limited experience with the big club.
Zink should get the call because of how well he’s pitched this season. Replacing a knuckleballer with another knuckleballer is not a terrible thing. After being seasoned by Wakefield himself, Zink can put his advice to good use and pitch well for the Red Sox during Wakefield’s DL stint.
SoxProspects.com says that Zink is fearless with his knuckleball, even when way behind in the count. He has a mid 80’s fastball and cutter that he can throw for strikes. Click here to read his full prospect report.
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If Zink does get the call, it will be quite difficult to keep the same consistency that Tim Wakefield has set throughout the season. We can make an argument that Wakefield has been the most consistent all year. (It’s very realistic. Lester struggled earlier this season and Beckett hasn’t been Beckett as of late.)
Add this with the struggles of Taylor, er….Clay Buchholz, and the Red Sox have some serious decisions to make, says Rob of The Bottom Line.
Buchholz confidence has to be at an all-time low, even though his post-game interviews makes it seem otherwise. Buchholz was confident he made some good pitches. As for Red Sox Nation, maybe we expected too much, too soon from the kid.
The fact of the matter is that Buchholz’ job is seriously in doubt. If it weren’t for Wakefield’s injury and Bartolo Colon’s setback, Taylor might be sent back down to AAA for more grooming.
I mean, Clay.
