Same Old Ricky

Minnesota Twins starting pitcher, Ricky Nolasco was looking to bounce back after a dreadful 2014 season. He came into spring training in better shape and was looking to leave 2014 in the rearview mirror.

Making his first start of the 2015 season against the Detroit Tigers, Nolasco was looking strong through the first two innings. He gave up no hits and had a 1-2-3 inning in the second.

Then the wheels came off in the third inning. Nolasco walked the first batter he faced and it was all downhill after that. He gave up three runs and escaped further damage by striking out Yoenis Cespedes with the bases loaded.

The fourth inning was more of the same. Nolasco walked the first batter he faced and gave up another three runs before leaving the game without recording an out.

Nolasco’s final stat line: three innings pitched. Six earned runs and four walks, one of which was intentional.

It may be only one outing, but, 2015 Ricky looks a lot like the Ricky that finished with a 6-12 record and 5.38 earned run average in 2014. It’s a long season and it’s only one outing. However, when one is coming off a horrible 2014 season and you only last three innings in your first outing in 2015, it doesn’t do much for building confidence.

New manager, Paul Molitor has made it clear that mediocrity will no longer be allowed to fly. Nolasco’s performances in a Twins uniform have been far from mediocre. His outings have been a train-wreck. Nolasco is scheduled to start the home opener on Monday against the Royals. With another outing like today, Molitor won’t hesitate to remove him from the rotation in favor of one of the talented young arms in the minors. It’s your move Ricky.

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