The playoffs are only a few days old and weather has already thrown a wrench into the equation. The Yankees-Tigers series has seen rain affect both of their games so far. The first game, which featured aces C.C. Sabathia and Justin Verlander was postponed due to heavy rain that saw them only pitch through the middle of the second inning. This meant that both teams had to go to their number two starters to finish the first game and the pitching match-ups for the whole series were now in disarray.
The Yankees over the past few postseasons have adopted a three-pitcher rotation model, featuring C.C. pitching on short rest throughout the playoffs. This model has been successful in the past for them and was a key factor in winning the World Series in 2009. With the change in the schedule and loss of an off day, it is no longer possible for the Yankees to go with a three-man rotation and they are forced to potentially have to bring in A.J. Burnett to start a game although he has been very inconsistent on the mound.
Controversy is also abound on the Tiger’s side where the Yankees gained an advantage in the first game because of the pitching swap that was necessitated by the postponement. The Yankees swapped a right hander for a left hander and made the Detroit’s lineup not as prepared to face the lefty Ivan Nova as they would have if the lineups could have been reset.
When both managers were asked about the rain affecting the series they were both quick to point out that both teams have to deal with the same circumstances so it doesn’t bother them. This may be what they say outwardly, but inwardly there are many aspects that they and all others involved must be frustrated with. Baseball should work on developing a new plan to deal with the situation of rain in playoff baseball, especially when this is a 5-game series and every game takes on great importance.
That's really a great point. And how in the world do you think they are going to be able to handle rain when the additional Wild Card playoff round is added come 2013? It really is a time game and unless they shorten the regular season, I don't know how they will be able to handle it.
ReplyDeleteI completely understand where you coming from, but I think it's just the nature of the game. Especially in the eastern half of the country, teams deal with rain on a relatively regular basis. I'll start worrying when the playoffs get extended into November and playoff games become postponed due to snow.
ReplyDeleteI think rain is a huge mental game. In tennis, or in baseball. Suck it up!
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