Charlie - doing what it takes or doing too much?
by Scott Butler 10/9/09
To say Charlie Manuel's moves during Thursday's Game 2 loss to the Rockies was unorthodox would be an understatement. Charlie's decisions to allow Joe Blanton and JA Happ pitch in relief are major moves that could have a profound impact on the series and may force the Phils to go with Pedro Martinez in game 3. Let's take a moment to examine all of the moves.
1. Allowing Joe Blanton and JA Happ to pitch in relief.
It certainly was a bit shocking to see two of the Phils probable Game 3 starters warming up in the bullpen in the sixth inning. Wouldn't you know, Charlie brought in both pitchers in the game.
On the positive side, the moves show that Charlie answers to nobody and will make the decision he feels is best for the team. Some people might say he treated this game like it was game 7, but Charlie is sending the message that every game is a game 7 in his mind and he will not throw away any game. This game was important, and Charlie showed his faith in Blanton and Happ.
On the negative side, why would you ask your starters to pitch in an uncomfortable role when you have guys who are paid to pitch in relief? Joe Blanton does is a guy who is built to give you innings and keep you in the game, not stop the bleeding right there. Besides, what does it do to the confidence of a Chad Durbin, knowing that he would rather pitch Blanton in a foreign role than bring Durbin in to a role he is paid for?
2. Making a double switch after the fifth inning.
After pinch hitter for Hamels in the eighth inning, Charlie decided to do a double switch before the seventh inning, replacing Pedro Feliz with Miguel Cairo. It didn't seem to offer much of an advantage to make a change so early in the game. What it essentially did was replace Feliz with an inferior offensive and defensive player. It may not have made a difference defensively in the game, but Cairo had two at-bats that could have gone to Feliz., including an at-bat in the ninth.
3. Using Cliff Lee as a pinch runner. I don't think Charlie had much choice but to replace Matt Stairs with Cliff Lee. But if you are like me, you were probably picturing the scenario of Lee sliding into the plate and injuring himself. It more exposes the probably of a weak bench with no speed.
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