NEWSLETTER
I’m not going to get into all the reasons why Hector Neris should not have gotten the chance to save tonight’s game. Brett took his time and did that four days ago … following a blown save and another nearly blown save. And I even acknowledge that refraining from strict announcement TONIGHT doesn’t mean one can’t come in the future.
Craig Counsell Comments on Hector Neris
But honestly … it doesn’t really sound like Craig Counsell has ANY intention of removing Hector Neris from the closer role after ANOTHER disaster tonight. And that kinda blows my mind.
From the press conference:
Reporter: “Would you say that it’s not under consideration to remove him from save situations right now?”
Counsell: “Look, we’ve got a bullpen, we’ve got to find guys to get outs. And Hector has been a guy that’s been reliable for us, so I wouldn’t anticipate doing that. And we’re gonna always examine every best way to get 27 outs every day and we’re gonna need Hector to be a part of that.”
Again, not making the call tonight. Fine. Not necessary, but fine. Not wanting to throw a team leader entirely under the bus right after a tough loss. Okay, whatever. Sure. The line about getting 27-outs? Generic and overused maybe, but not technically untrue.
But you wouldn’t even “ANTICIPATE” removing Hector Neris from save opportunities right now? Really? We’re not even getting a “Hey, Neris is going through a rough patch and we might need someone else to take some of those opportunities while he gets right” or something? Wild.
Hector Neris: 4 blown saves (and a dozen other close ones)
Adbert Alzolay: 5 blown saves
Chicago Cubs: 16 blown saves (tied for second-most in MLB)
I know there are not a TON of other options. I really do. Tyson Miller is one imperfect choice and there are several others, all equally imperfect or worse. But anyone – anyone – else needs to get the next save opportunity. Doing otherwise is just not the right decision.
The Cubs are now a season-high (low?) five games under .500 and in last place of the NL Central. Only the Rockies (47) and Marlins (49) have more losses in the National League.
Bumping this from earlier.
What a season, man. My god.
