Since being called up from the minors on August 1st, Rangers pitcher Neftali Feliz has been nothing short of outstanding. He has had 14 consecutive scoreless innings in relief with 21 strikeouts and an ERA of 0.55 [best in MLB for the month of August]. Oh, and did I mention that his average fastball speed ranges between 97-101mph.
So given these eye-popping stats and the recent struggles the Rangers have had closing out games for the win, should manager Ron Washington consider moving Feliz into the closer role this season? Or should we keep him where he is at for this year and take it slow and steady.
The Short-term plan with Feliz was to call him up this year and ease him into the middle reliver rotation to get him used to playing with the big boys. I would say he has quickly responded without even breaking a sweat.
The Long-term plan is to eventually move Feliz into the starting line-up over the next year or so. I don't know if this is the best idea given how powerful he is with his fastball. If the rest of our middle relief does not step up then his starts may be wasted by the later innings.
Post your comments and let me know what you think is best for the club when it comes to the power of Feliz - leave him alone, move to closer, or prep for starter? You decide....
Apologies for the picture, but it made me laugh so I had to use it
I think everyone (team members, opponents, fans, etc.) is impressed with the talent Feliz brings to the mound. There isn't a doubt in my mind he will continue to advance quickly within the Ranger's ball club. The Rangers have been struggling as of late at the closer spot, and with this young man's incendiary fastball, I wouldn't put it past them to try his talent out closing before the season's end. However, I do believe his age and lack of experience (hence the pink back pack) will keep Ranger's management from giving him a permanent title\spot this season.
ReplyDeleteGreg - I agree with your assessment...but it definitely gives our team possibilities for the future. I love me some Feliz!
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