Another poor start for Litsch

The difference between Jesse’s opposing pitchers on the day, James Shields, would be minor to the casual or medium level observer. Shields has a 3.96 ERA & Litsch has a 4.11 ERA. However, the differences stop there.

In 87.2 IP, Litsch has allowed 98 hits, 12 HR, and an opponent’s batting average of .287.

Shields, in 207 IP has allowed less than a hit per inning, with 198, a high 28 HR, an opponents batting average of .249 & a league best 179/34 SO/BB ratio.

Despite this, the internet seems to love Litsch & takes no notice of Shields.

Back to the start at hand, it was typical of most recent Litsch starts. Over a hit per inning (7 in 5 IP) and another 3 home runs allowed. He did strike out 5 and walk none, although to be honest, the Devil Rays swing first and ask questions later. Over Jesse’s past six starts he’s allowed 7 HR and has a 1 – 4 record.

Pitching to contact in the major leagues with a 91 MPH four seam fastball as a rightly is dangerous living. As the video and scouting reports on Jesse have made their rounds, his level of success has diminished. Josh Towers Jr. is all set for a AAA opening day start in 2008.