Quick reply to Outlaw43, the difference between the Reds and Sux was NOT a bullpen. True they had papelbon and Okajima who were both rediculously effective, but any team that can tattoo the a 10 run comeback (even if it is against the Rays) and have horses like Dice-K and Beckett doesn't need to rely on the bullpen. For most of their early run most of the bullpen wasn't used so no weaknesses were exposed. Once the big two, there was a big drop off in talent out of the pen. It was strong outtings from the starters and posting 10 runs a game that got the Sux the 96 wins.
But generally speaking, yes I do agree with you (I'm not trying to be a jerk I promise). The Yanks just don't produce the offense they used to with Sheffield gone, Matsui and Damon wearing down, and Giambi being Giambi. They need to rely on quality pitching which is what brought them all the championships. Guys like Mike Stanton, Nelly, and Ramiro Mendoza were the reason they won all those championships. With proven starters Pettitte and Wang, we should use a decently reliable Mussina with Hughes and Kennedy. Leave Chamberlain in a role he's comfortable with alternating with Hawkins to set-up Mo. If injuries require (which is almost a certainty for at least a few starts), Chamberlain could probably fill in and test the water. Worst case scenario, he sucks and goes back in the pen.
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Joba Not A Lock To Start Next Season
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