2008 Projection: Pat Neshek
We're getting into the relief pitchers now as we continue the series of 2008 projections. Let's take a look at Pat Neshek, everyone's favorite blogging relief pitcher.
| Year | Age | ERA | W | L | INN | HR | BB | K |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 ZiPS | 27 | 3.62 | 6 | 4 | 82.0 | 13 | 26 | 93 |
| 2007 | 26 | 2.94 | 7 | 2 | 70.3 | 7 | 27 | 74 |
| 2006 | 25 | 2.19 | 4 | 2 | 37.0 | 6 | 6 | 53 |
Pat Neshek turned into Ron Gardenhire's go-to guy whenever trouble emerged late in the game last season. In 2007 he picked up where he left off in 2006, by simply dominating opposing hitters. However, his first-half ERA of 1.71 gave way to a second half ERA of 4.82 with particularly bad months in August and September.
Initially criticized for struggling against lefties, Neshek solved any problem that existed last year. Statistically lefties still hit for a little more power against Neshek than righties, but righties still batted only .181 against Neshek in 2007.
Without much change in the bullpen during the offseason, Neshek's role is likely to be similar to last year's.
Other 2008 projections
Topics: Pat Neshek, Ron Gardenhire