Will Mike Pelfrey be sent to the bullpen or make the biggest start of the year?
Sep 4, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Mike Pelfrey (37) delivers a pitch during the fourth inning against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Mike Pelfrey at the beginning of the season was red-hot. Before the season began there were rumors that Pelfrey could be used out of the bullpen in a long relief role. From his first start in April to June 23, he was by far the Twins best starter. His ERA in that span was 3.09. Pelfrey even had his ERA as low as 2.25. He seemed to have proven that he belongs in the rotation putting the bullpen rumors aside.
Not so fast. Pelfrey has really imploded since then. His ERA in the second half of the season is over 5.00 and opposing batters are hitting .326. Pelfrey has six wins on the season with only one win, ONE, since June 29. The Twins will likely have to make a decision come playoff time. If they make it, do they put Pelfrey in the bullpen? Maybe that is what he needs to hear to start pitching like he did in the first half of the season.
A tale of two seasons, Pelfrey does not look like the same pitcher in the second half. However, Pelfrey does lead all MLB pitchers in double plays induced with 27. The ability to escape the opponents rally is magnified in the playoffs. This works in Pelfrey’s favor. But like Gibson, Pelfrey probably will not get the wild card game start. It would be very surprising to see him starting the wild card game.
Next: Phil Hughes